Son of SPECOPS: Rethinking the Nature and Operationalization of Cyberspace
Abstract
The establishment of U.S. Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM) as a sub-unified command under U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) signals open acceptance of cyberspace as the newest warfighting domain. Unlike air power, however, policy makers and strategists do not have an adequate framework to address the nature of cyberspace. Without this understanding, the operationalization of cyberspace beyond broad policy statements and rhetoric will be lacking, and planners and strategists will be unable to forge capabilities over the long term. The alignment of USCYBERCOM under USSTRATCOM is not congruent with the nature of operations in cyberspace and, instead, USCYBERCOM should align itself operationally with U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM). Despite its joint construct, the rationale for the placement of USCYBERCOM under USSTRATCOM remains unclear. USSTRATCOM resembles a clearinghouse of Cold War-era legacy missions, or those that are best suited for a conventionally aligned mindset and bureaucratic control. Conversely, cyber operations present leaders with the imperative to use creativity and initiative to a larger degree than in most other forms of warfare. By viewing cyberspace through the lens of special operations and adapting some of its best practices for its own internal use, policy makers, leaders, and warriors in the cyber field will find lasting success in this new domain.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 27, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA563835
Entities
People
- Philip M. Forbes
Organizations
- Naval War College