15 February 2020

Cyber Policy Next: National Security Strategy


Cyber weaponry has emerged as the primary way nations compete with and undercut each other in short-of-war conflict. Yet there are few international rules that govern the daily battles — or prevent escalation. As a shadow war emerges in cyberspace, President Trump has given far more powers to the United States Cyber Command and the National Security Agency.

Should a presidential order be required to launch a cyber strike against another country, just as it is required to launch a nuclear strike?

No. Cyber is a relatively new domain of warfare, but military activity in cyberspace can encompass a wide range of activities. While some of these may have such a significant impact on civilian targets that a presidential order is appropriate, others may be so precise or contained that a presidential order is unnecessary. The president should set the overall cyber strategy for engagement that takes into account all elements of national power when contemplating cyber operations.

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