Offensive cyber capabilities: To what ends?

摘要: There is a growing interest in the use of offensive cyber capabilities (OCC) among states. Despite these capabilities, little still known about nature OCC as tool state. This research therefore aims to understand if (and how) have potential change role military power. Drawing on wide range cases, we argue that can alter manner which states their power strategically at least four ways. are not particularly effective deterring adversary action, except when threatened be used by with credible reputation. However, they do value compellence. Unlike conventional effects operations necessarily exposed publicly, means compelled party back down post-action without losing face thus deescalating conflict. The control reversibility effect an attacker may also encourage compliance. contribute force for defensive purposes, it could provide both preemptive well preventive strike option. Finally, its symbolic 'prestige weapon' enhance 'swaggering' remains unclear, due largely non-material ontology and transitory nature.