NON-KINETIC TARGETING OF DARK NETWORKS: SOCIAL NETWORK ANALYSIS OF THE PKK TERRORIST ORGANIZATION
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Authors
Ozmen, Ersin
Subjects
dark networks
social network analysis
information operations
influence operations
social network analysis
information operations
influence operations
Advisors
Iatrou, Steven J.
Date of Issue
2018-12
Date
Dec-18
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
Dark networks can be defined as illegal and covert social networks. Terrorist groups are an excellent example of a dark network. Decision makers have two basic options to disrupt dark networks. The first option is kinetic targeting, which entails finding the target and capturing or eliminating him or her. The second is non-kinetic targeting, which involves finding, tracking, and monitoring key actors, psychological operations, information operations, rehabilitation and reintegration, and institution building.
Because of the covert nature of dark networks, it is a challenge to understand the whole structure of the dark network and identify the right actor for non-kinetic targeting. At this point, social network analysis (SNA) can be used to solve this problem. SNA is a set of mathematical tools and theories developed to understand the structure of social networks by assuming the individual’s behavior is driven by the structure of the social network in which he or she is embedded.
In this thesis, I analyze the Kurdistan Worker’s Party (PKK) terrorist organization in Turkey using SNA and craft a non-kinetic targeting plan to disrupt this dark network.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Information Sciences (IS)
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
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Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
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Copyright is reserved by the copyright owner.