Cyber/Electronic Operations and Warfare

Overview

Cyber/Electronic Operations and Warfare (CEOW) refers to the use of cyber capabilities and the electromagnetic spectrum to achieve military or strategic objectives. It integrates traditional electronic warfare with modern cyber warfare tactics.

Key Concepts

• Cyber Warfare: Actions taken via computer networks to disrupt, deny, degrade, or destroy information resident in computers and computer networks, or the computers and networks themselves.
• Electronic Warfare (EW): Military action involving the use of the electromagnetic spectrum to locate, use, advantage, and deny adversary use of that spectrum.
• Cyber Electromagnetic Activities (CEMA): A concept that integrates cyber warfare and electronic warfare to achieve electromagnetic spectrum superiority.

Deep Dive

CEOW is a rapidly evolving field. It involves understanding how to exploit vulnerabilities in enemy systems (e.g., command and control, communications) while defending friendly ones. This includes sophisticated techniques like jamming, spoofing, and network intrusion.

Applications

Applications range from:

• Disrupting enemy communications and sensor networks.
• Protecting critical infrastructure from cyberattacks.
• Gathering intelligence through electronic signals.
• Influencing adversary decision-making through information operations.

Challenges & Misconceptions

A major challenge is the dual-use nature of many technologies, blurring lines between civilian and military applications. Misconceptions often arise about the speed and scope of cyberattacks, and the clear distinction between kinetic and cyber effects.

FAQs

What is the difference between cyber warfare and electronic warfare? While related, cyber warfare focuses on computer networks and data, whereas electronic warfare targets the electromagnetic spectrum used for communication, radar, and navigation.