Investing in Information Warfare in the era of Great Power Competition
Information Warfare and You - A Series
Norwich University stands at the forefront of Information Warfare education, offering comprehensive programs that delve into the strategic use of information in modern conflicts. Through its online Graduate Certificate in Information Warfare, students explore the principles of psychological operations, propaganda, disinformation, and cyber operations, gaining insights into how various nations conceptualize and implement information warfare strategies. The curriculum emphasizes the analysis of current threats and the development of influence campaigns, preparing graduates for roles in defense, intelligence, and cybersecurity sectors.
The United States should invest in Information Warfare (IW) for both defensive and offensive operations because it is a critical aspect of modern conflict and great power competition. IW offers a potent, cost-effective means to achieve national security objectives, deter adversaries, and maintain a competitive edge in the global information environment. Here's a breakdown of the argument for investment:
Why Invest in IW?
Asymmetric Advantage: IW offers a significant asymmetric advantage, allowing the US to counter adversaries with superior military strength without resorting to kinetic conflict. It levels the playing field against nations that might otherwise be difficult to engage directly.
Deterrence and Defense: Robust IW capabilities deter adversaries by imposing costs and risks associated with aggression in the information domain. A strong defense in IW can prevent manipulation, disinformation, and attacks on critical infrastructure, protecting US interests at home and abroad.
Power Projection and Influence: IW enables the projection of power and influence without deploying large numbers of troops. It can shape narratives, counter propaganda, and support diplomatic efforts, strengthening alliances and partnerships.
Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to traditional military operations, IW can be significantly more cost-effective, achieving strategic objectives with fewer resources.
Essential for Modern Warfare: Modern warfare is increasingly fought in the information domain. Ignoring or underinvesting in IW leaves the US vulnerable to manipulation, disinformation, and attacks that can undermine national security.
IW and Theater Security Cooperation (TSC):
IW is crucial for supporting TSC programs by:
Building Partner Capacity: Training allies and partners in IW techniques enhances their ability to defend against disinformation and malicious cyber activity, strengthening their overall security posture.
Improving Interoperability: Joint IW exercises and training improve communication and coordination between the US and its partners, enabling more effective responses to shared threats.
Strengthening Alliances: Sharing IW best practices and technologies builds trust and strengthens alliances, fostering a united front against common adversaries.
Facilitating Information Sharing: IW supports secure information sharing between partners, enabling faster and more effective responses to emerging threats.
IW and Defend Forward/Deterrence:
IW is a key enabler of the "defend forward" and deterrence doctrines by:
Early Warning and Threat Detection: IW capabilities can detect and analyze hostile information operations early on, providing valuable time to respond and mitigate threats.
Preemptive Actions: Offensive IW operations can disrupt adversary plans, degrade their capabilities, and deter future aggression.
Strengthening Allies' Resilience: By supporting allies' IW capabilities, the US enhances their resilience against adversary influence and strengthens the overall deterrence posture.
Imposing Costs: IW can impose costs on adversaries for malicious activities in the information domain, making aggression less attractive.
Case Study: Estonia
Following cyberattacks attributed to Russia in 2007, Estonia significantly invested in its cyber and information warfare defenses, partnering with NATO and other allies. They developed robust cyber defense capabilities, including a Cyber Defense League, and actively participate in international exercises. This investment and partnership have significantly enhanced Estonia's resilience to information attacks and serve as a model for other nations. It demonstrates the value of investing in IW, partnering with allies, and integrating these capabilities into national defense strategies.
Conclusion:
Investing in IW is not an option but a necessity for the United States. It is a vital tool for defending national interests, deterring adversaries, and maintaining a competitive edge in the 21st century. By prioritizing IW development and integrating it into broader security strategies, the US can effectively safeguard its interests, support its allies, and shape the global information environment.
Scott A Nelson, Principal Deputy, DoD Cyber Academic Engagement Office
Scott Nelson is a senior defense leader with over 25 years of experience in cyber operations, information warfare, and academic engagement. He currently serves as the Principal Deputy of the Department of Defense Cyber Academic Engagement Office, where he leads national partnerships to build and sustain the cyber workforce. He previously served as Senior Advisor to the Strategist at Cyber National Mission Force and Deputy G3 at Army Cyber Command, where he led strategic transformation efforts for Army IO forces. A retired US Army Colonel and a trusted voice in national security, known for integrating strategy, education, and innovation across the cyber and information domains, he has also commanded multiple Reserve and Guard elements at U.S. Special Operations Command, NORAD, and NORTHCOM. He holds a Master of Strategic Studies from the Army War College and a cybersecurity certification from the University of Washington.