Computer Network Attack As a Tool for the Operational Commander

Abstract

Computer network attack provides the capability for an attack to be carried out at the speed of light, effortlessly across international boundaries. It has the potential to provide the Operational Commander additional capabilities along the entire spectrum of warfare from deterrence to combat operations. Key enemy systems, including radar, air traffic control and communications have the potential to be rapidly removed from operation without having to move a single plane, put U.S. personnel in harms way or expend expensive precision guided munitions. However, the law of armed conflict and other international laws raise legal issues that potentially limit the implementation of this new weapon. The Operational Commander must be knowledgeable of the basis of the legal issues so that suitable network attack targets can be selected during the operational plan development, targets against which an attack plan can be developed and approved in the period required to support the attack's employment in the conflict.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Feb 08, 2000
Accession Number
ADA378752

Entities

People

  • Theodore V. Smits

Organizations

  • Naval War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • C4I
  • Cyber
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Computer Networks
  • Employment
  • Geneva Conventions
  • Humanities
  • Information Operations
  • Information Systems
  • Information Warfare
  • International Law
  • Law
  • Medical Personnel
  • Military History
  • Military Operations
  • National Security
  • Navy
  • United Nations
  • War Colleges
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Cybersecurity.
  • Joint Military Operations and Doctrine.
  • Strategic Security Studies