Author: Devin Lukomski
Affiliation: Chief Operating Officer, OTM Cyber
Abstract
This article examines the shift in the nature of warfare, where traditional battlegrounds have been supplemented or replaced by digital battlefields in cyberspace. Adversaries of the United States increasingly target critical infrastructure, such as power grids, transportation systems, communication networks, and emergency services, through cyber attacks. The article explores the reasons behind this trend and its implications for national security. It discusses the competition phase of warfare and the use of covert cyber operations to discredit opponents. It also highlights the attractiveness of critical infrastructure as a target due to its role as the backbone of modern nations and the increasing reliance on digital systems, and ways to address these challenges.
Introduction
In the modern era, the world has witnessed an unprecedented shift in the nature of warfare. Traditional battlegrounds have been supplemented, and sometimes even replaced, by digital battlefields where nations engage in an invisible war fought through the realm of cyberspace. Critical infrastructure, such as power grids, transportation systems, communication networks, and emergency services, has emerged as a prime target for cyber attacks by adversaries of the United States.
The New Paradigm of Warfare
Gone are the days when wars were fought solely with tanks, missiles, and soldiers. Today, conflicts are waged across a vast digital landscape, where adversaries compete in a perpetual state of competition, even during times of peace. This state of competition refers to the initial phase of warfare where nations or groups compete for resources, territory, or power involving diplomatic or economic maneuvers, such as trade agreements or sanctions, as well as military preparations, such as building up armed forces or deploying troops to strategic locations. In the competition phase of warfare, adversaries may seek to discredit their opponent's government as a means of gaining an advantage in the competition for resources, territory, or power. A primary way of achieving this discreditation is by conducting covert cyber operations aimed at undermining the foundations of a nation's critical infrastructure.
Critical Infrastructure as a Prime Target
Critical infrastructure forms the backbone of any modern nation, encompassing essential sectors such as energy, transportation, telecommunications, finance, and emergency services. As societies become increasingly interconnected and reliant on digital systems, these vital sectors have become increasingly attractive targets for adversaries seeking to disrupt or cripple a nation's operations.
The United States, being a global superpower and a leader in technological advancements, finds itself at the forefront of this ongoing cyber conflict. Its adversaries, including nation-states and non-state actors, view targeting critical infrastructure as a means to exert influence, gain strategic advantages, or undermine national security.
Motivations for Cyber Attacks
Numerous factors drive adversaries to target critical infrastructure. Firstly, by compromising key systems, adversaries can create widespread chaos, panic, and disruption, eroding public trust in the government's ability to protect its citizens. Additionally, these attacks can serve as responses to geopolitical tensions or as attempts to weaken a nation's position on the global stage.
The competitive aspect of this new warfare paradigm also plays a significant role. Adversaries continuously seek to exploit vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure as a means to gain an upper hand. They understand that disabling essential services can significantly hinder a nation's ability to respond effectively in times of crisis, whether it be during armed conflicts, economic disputes, or other strategic confrontations. The consequences can be far-reaching, affecting not only the economy but also public health, safety, and overall societal stability.
Moreover, the interconnected nature of critical infrastructure means that a successful attack in one sector can have cascading effects, compromising other sectors and amplifying the impact. This interconnectedness heightens the vulnerability of the entire infrastructure, necessitating comprehensive and robust cybersecurity measures.
Addressing the Challenges
Given the persistent and evolving threat landscape, safeguarding critical infrastructure requires a multi-faceted approach. Collaboration between government agencies and private sector entities is essential to establish effective defense mechanisms, information sharing, and incident response capabilities.
Investment in cybersecurity capabilities is paramount to stay ahead of adversaries. This includes the development of advanced threat intelligence, robust encryption technologies, and resilient infrastructure design. Furthermore, raising public awareness about cybersecurity risks and promoting a culture of cyber hygiene is crucial to ensure the collective defense of critical infrastructure.
References
NIST (2018). Framework for Improving Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity. (NIST CSWP 6). https://doi.org/10.6028/NIST.CSWP.6
DHS (2022, February 23). Secure Cyberspace and Critical Infrastructure. Department of Homeland Security. https://www.dhs.gov/secure-cyberspace-and-critical-infrastructure
Anderson, R., Jr. (2014, September 10). Cyber Security, Terrorism, and Beyond: Addressing Evolving Threats to the Homeland. Federal Bureau of Investigation. https://www.fbi.gov/news/testimony/cyber-security-terrorism-and-beyond-addressing-evolving-threats-to-the-homeland
Deni, J. R. (2019). The Competition Phase of Warfare. Parameters: US Army War College Quarterly, 49(1), 35-48.
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