INFORMATION OPERATIONS IN CURRENT AND FUTURE WARFARE
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Authors
Wood, Jonathan P.
Young, Bradley W.
Subjects
information operations
IO
multi-domain operations
MDO
cyber
cyberspace
information warfare
IW
IO
multi-domain operations
MDO
cyber
cyberspace
information warfare
IW
Advisors
Fisher, Edward L.
Maness, Ryan
Date of Issue
2020-12
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
The U.S. Army recognizes the ongoing threat posed by our adversaries’ strategic efforts to integrate information operations (IO), cyberspace operations, and emerging technologies that challenge U.S. freedom of maneuver across all domains. As a result, the U.S. Army is posturing for a doctrinal shift toward multi-domain operations, which will increase the role of information in warfighting. As it does, the U.S. Army faces challenges and disparities regarding IO in design and practice. Current U.S. Army IO doctrine, terminology, and overall structure is insufficient and does not facilitate a conceptual shared understanding. This leads to systemic underperformance of tactical units in the information environment and suboptimal integration of IO in strategy and plans. Similarly, the U.S. Army community of IO practitioners faces an identity crisis that degrades the profession’s cohesion, influence, and overall ability to operate effectively. To overcome these challenges, a critical examination of U.S. Army IO in design and practice is first required to reveal the scope of the disparity. Then, the application of social network analysis and social identity theories reveals potential solutions in IO training, education, and organization that will enable the U.S. Army to become more competitive in the information environment. This investment will enhance the Army’s ability to seamlessly integrate and execute information warfare in current and future conflicts.
Type
Thesis
Description
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Department
Defense Analysis (DA)
Defense Analysis (DA)
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Distribution Statement
Approved for public release. distribution is unlimited
Rights
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.