The Interim Years of Cyberspace
Abstract
In the early years of the cyberspace domain the role of cyberpower was primarily seen as a means to achieve broad command and control across the warfighting domains. Communication was the key focus of the domain and ensuring the lines of communication were maintained was imperative to operational success. As the domain grew, additional roles were edged out to provide a support force to traditional military operations while other roles were explored with the highest levels of secrecy. Many early cyberspace leaders realized that cyber assets offered a number of attack, defense, and exploitation options that have never before been afforded to military commanders. In a highly connected world with large advancements in technology common, the capabilities and weapons in cyberspace became even more impressive. The current stage of cyberspace development is similar to the interim years between World War I and World War II when airpower was challenged and emerged as a premier and powerful military tool. No comparison does better justice to the current situation in cyberspace than airpower during those foundational years. It was during airpower s early years that theorists and military officers including Italian Air Marshall Giulio Douhet, Marshal of the Royal Air Force Hugh Trenchard, and Brigadier General William Billy Mitchell helped guide the direction of airpower. Through a focus on sharing actionable cyber-intelligence, showcasing select cyber capabilities, embracing the development of the cyber culture, and dedicating a large focus on education, the direction of cyberpower can be equally guided. As cyberspace reaches its full potential as a domain of warfare equal to the traditional domains it is imperative that it be vectored properly.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA568243
Entities
People
- Robert M. Lee
Organizations
- Air University