They sent in a very limited number of people for various obvious and smart reasons. If I was sent in, not knowing at all what's on the other side, I think I'd rather be equipped with the latest and greatest stuff, not some old shit from surplus stockpiles, just because both you and the equipment are then perfectly expendable and not a great loss if lost. Sure, it naturally was enough to counter medieval opponents, but it does send a certain message to you if the brass is more concerned about losing good equipment than losing lives.

That was my problem with it. Special forces on special missions with limited people should have the best stuff.