Armed with Information: Evolving Public Affairs to Deliver Operational Effects
Abstract
In light of the pervasive nature of real-time global news, the perceptions as delivered via the media and other emerging communication mediums are increasingly influencing foreign and domestic public opinion and the policymaking process. It's within this context, the U.S. military must come to understand and embrace the operational potential inherent in leveraging information and related public affairs (PA) capabilities as a crucial weapon to be employed on the battleground of public opinion. Despite its enormous potential, steps must be taken to increase the effectiveness of prevailing PA norms and standards. Without question, kinetic capabilities are still relevant in 21st century warfare, but represent only part of the solution. Military success in wielding information for operational effect will increasingly depend upon our ability to move forward on many fronts, to include evolving PA operations designed to preempt or counter adversary disinformation. Throughout this paper I will use the problem-solution research methodology to examine the need to evolve PA operations beyond prevailing norms and standards to address today's security challenges and related global information-age realities. I will begin this discussion by examining the military implications of globalization. This discussion will be followed by an examination of the evolving nature of conflict and character of warfare throughout the history of warfare. Having explored these topics, this discussion will be followed by an examination of the impact of technology on current military operations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA539780
Entities
People
- Thomas A. Knowles
Organizations
- Air Command and Staff College