Strategies for combating dark networks
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Authors
Roberts, Nancy
Everton, Sean F.
Subjects
Dark networks
counter-terrorism
counter-insurgency
strategy
counter-terrorism
counter-insurgency
strategy
Advisors
Date of Issue
2011
Date
Publisher
Language
Abstract
Our goal in this paper is to explore two generic approaches to disrupting dark networks: kinetic and nonkinetic.
The kinetic approach involves aggressive and offensive measures to eliminate or capture network
members and their supporters, while the non-kinetic approach involves the use of subtle, non-coercive
means for combating dark networks. Two strategies derive from the kinetic approach: Targeting and
Capacity-building. Four strategies derive from the non-kinetic approach: Institution-Building,
Psychological Operations, Information Operations and Rehabilitation. We use network data from Noordin
Top’s South East Asian terror network to illustrate how both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies could be
pursued depending on a commander’s intent. Using this strategic framework as a backdrop, we strongly
advise the use of SNA metrics in developing alternative counter-terrorism strategies that are context dependent
rather than letting SNA metrics define and drive a particular strategy.
Type
Article
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Defense Analysis (DA)
Organization
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
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Citation
N.C. Roberts, S.F. Everton, "Strategies for combating dark networks," Journal of Social Structure, JoSS Article: v.12 (2011), 33 p.
Roberts, N.C. and Everton, S. 2011. Strategies for Combating Dark Networks. Journal of Social Structure 12(2):1-32.
Roberts, N.C. and Everton, S. 2011. Strategies for Combating Dark Networks. Journal of Social Structure 12(2):1-32.
Distribution Statement
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This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.