The International Legal Implications of Information Warfare
Abstract
Although the definition of information warfare is still evolving, the Air Force has described it as encompassing "any action to deny, exploit, corrupt or destroy the enemy's information and its functions; protecting ourselves against those actions; and exploiting our own military information functions." Because of potential wartime applications, the question arises as to what the legal implications of information warfare are. One initial hurdle posed by the breadth and uniqueness of certain aspects of information warfare is the question of what constitutes an armed attack in the information age. The Law of Armed Conflict analysis discusses the three basic principles central to LOAC: the principle of military necessity, the principle of humanity, and the principle of chivalry. Several international treaties may also constrain potential information warfare activities. Most prominent in this area are treaties dealing with outer space. Treaties place limitations on the use of certain satellites to "peaceful purposes." The Treat on Neutral appears to preclude neutrals from interfering with the use of telecommunications lines which cross their countries, which is nearly impossible in many cases.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA365379
Entities
People
- Richard W. Aldrich
Organizations
- United States Air Force Academy