TRADECRAFT     ::     Less formally referred to as “spycraft” or less commonly as “streetcraft”, it’s the methodologies and philosophies of engaging in clandestine operations, espionage, urban survival, life hacking and certain types of warfare.
      The skillsets, techniques and mindsets associated with the trade are designed to optimize mission objective parameters, operational cohesion and personnel capability / viability – to be an apex human.
      Tradecraft is the set of techniques and operational strategies employed by CIA officers (covert operatives) and assets (agents) to collect intel and operate missions while maintaining peak self conditions. With strategic implementation, tradecraft can be applied to augment any other profession or everyday “normal” life.

      SELF-SOVEREIGNTY     ::     The operative lifestyle concept of having complete mastery of yourself, your life and your property. To really own what you own. Definitive dominion of all aspects of your way of life and exclusive control of your possessions. For the purpose of being resistant to outside influence, interference, restrictions and governance. It’s to be free from of the world yet be connected to it unfettered and flexible.
      Self-sovereignty is when covert operatives take control of their own actions and decisions without depending on someone else (handler, group); they are able to make independent judgments to serve the mission and protect themselves. As with tradecraft training this can also be implemented to augment any other profession or everyday “normal” life.

      STREET SMARTS     ::     In the unpredictable world of covert operations, the ability to quickly assess situations, navigate complex social interactions, and make decisions on the fly is crucial. Covert operatives often find themselves in unfamiliar environments, interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds. In such scenarios, textbook knowledge or technical skills may fall short.
      The ability to read people and situations, to blend in, to anticipate danger before it becomes apparent – becomes invaluable. Street smarts also encompass an awareness of one’s surroundings, an instinct for when things aren’t as they seem, and a knack for improvisation when plans go awry. It’s a tradecraft skillset not easily taught but is honed through experience and a deep understanding of human nature.

      URBAN SURVIVAL     ::     Unlike traditional survival skills that focus on wilderness settings, urban survival involves the complexities of the human animal, which comes with its own unique set of challenges and dangers. An operative understands how to blend in with the local population and navigate city layouts. They’re adept at finding shelter in non-traditional spaces, understanding the social and cultural norms of the area to avoid unwanted attention or conflict. It’s about reading people and situations, being aware of potential threats.
      In essence, urban survival for covert operative tradecraft isn’t just about enduring a situation; it’s about actively engaging with the environment to maintain their cover, complete their mission, ensure their own safety and thriving as a lifestyle.

      COMBATIVES     ::     Combat in general is an integral part of the training and skillset of a covert operative. Physical force is typically a last resort in the tradecraft of a covert operative. They may need to defend themselves against an attack, escape from physical restraint, or neutralize an adversary with and without weapons.
      The importance of combatives extends beyond physical confrontation as it improves an operative’s physical fitness, reaction speed, and situational awareness. It cultivates a mindset of preparedness to handle unexpected threats and heightens resilience and adaptability. While a covert operative’s primary tools are their mind and their ability to improvise, combatives provide an essential line of defense or offense when needed.