OPDEC and the Real-Time Media: CNN as a Force Multiplier

Abstract

The art of deception in warfare has been practiced for many millennia and it still retains an important place in the operational commander's repertoire. However, technological advances and sociological trends in the news media -- the electronic media in particular -- will increasingly expose to the public the actual events on the battlefield in near real-time. This will complicate the commander's ability to be successful in this often decisive warfighting practice. Creative use of the media may be used to increase the effectiveness of a commander's deception plan. But the commander must recognize that media operational deception (OPDEC) is a two-edged sword that presents risk as well as opportunity. The commander must consciously consider the long-term implications inherent in deceiving the media before undertaking such deception.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 19, 1992
Accession Number
ADA250266

Entities

People

  • Bruce M. Ross

Organizations

  • Naval War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • C4I
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  • Weapons Technologies

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  • Amphibious Operations
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  • Vietnam War
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Readers

  • International Journalism and Media Studies.
  • Military History / Militaries and War Studies
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Microelectronics