U.S. Command Relationships in the Conduct of Cyber Warfare: Establishment, Exercise, and Institutionalization of Cyber Coordinating Authority
Abstract
The character of cyberspace, the requirement to share situational awareness, and a need for coordination of cyber effects crossing geographic areas of responsibility (AORs) has driven continued centralization of cyberspace command and control (C2). This centralization confronts traditional command relationships and will likely generate friction between the future Commander, U.S. Cyber Command (CDR USCYBERCOM) and Geographic Combatant Commanders (GCCs). Easing of friction requires a careful balance of equities between these Joint Force Commanders (JFCs) and must provide for global unity of effort while not significantly constraining the GCC's freedom of action in the cyber domain. To achieve this balance, the Department of Defense (DOD) should specify establishment, exercise and institutionalization of a Cyber Coordination Authority (CCA). CCA will define, through DOD establishing directives, detailed authorities used by supported and supporting combatant commanders to adequately plan, prepare, and control reach back cyber capabilities organic to USCYBERCOM. To exercise CCA on behalf of the GCC, a Director of Cyber Forces (DIRCYBERFOR) is required to advise, coordinate, integrate and perform staffing functions to weave robust cyber effects throughout the GCC's major lines of operations. CCA requires institutionalization within joint and service doctrines to legitimize cyberspace as a warfighting domain, formalize cyberspace operations, and provide an effective forum to advocate for resources.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 03, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA525274
Entities
People
- David M. Franklin
Organizations
- Naval War College