Computer Network Operations Command and Control: A New Perspective

Abstract

The 2009 Quadrennial Roles and Missions Review Report states "Experience from recent operations and global cyberspace incidents underscore the critical role cyberspace capabilities play in preventing conflict when possible, and supporting full-spectrum military operations when necessary...Our national security is inextricably linked to the cyberspace domain, where conflict is not limited by geography or time." The standup of United States Cyber Command in September 2009 was a milestone in cyberspace command and control (C2). However, the DOD continues to struggle in developing the proper doctrine, organizations, and processes to execute the cyberspace mission across the range of military operations. Current doctrine has not kept pace with the technological and intellectual advancements of cyberspace. Using a cyber scenario as a backdrop, this paper examines some of the complex challenges operational commanders face concerning cyberspace C2. It discusses current doctrine disconnects, Computer Network Operations fundamentals, the information environment and cyberspace's role in it, as well as the levels of warfare. Finally, the paper contrasts two possible models for cyberspace C2 at the operational level of command, and provides recommendations to meet the cyberspace challenges.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Oct 22, 2009
Accession Number
ADA513948

Entities

People

  • Shane M. Connary

Organizations

  • Naval War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • C4I
  • Cyber
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Combatant Commanders
  • Command And Control
  • Computer Networks
  • Computers
  • Cyber Warfare
  • Cyberattacks
  • Cyberspace
  • Cyberspace Operations
  • Information Operations
  • Information Systems
  • Military Operations
  • National Security
  • United States
  • United States Strategic Command
  • War Colleges
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Irregular Warfare and Special Operations Cyberspace Operations against Adversarial Threats.
  • Joint Military Operations and Doctrine.

Technology Areas

  • Cyber
  • Fully Networked C3
  • Fully Networked C3 - Command and Control