Unveiling Russia’s secret weapon: cyber-electronic operations in hybrid warfare

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article explores the extent of cyber-electronic operations in Russia’s conception of hybrid warfare by analyzing its interventions in Georgia (2008), Ukraine (2014), and Syria (2015). The concept of hybrid warfare, which combines conventional and irregular tactics, asymmetric warfare, act of terrorism, propaganda, and information warfare, has gained prominence in recent years. The study provides a conceptual framework by reviewing the literature on hybrid warfare and presenting different perspectives on the concept, and focuses on cyber-electronic operations as a crucial component of hybrid warfare. Based on the case studies, the findings suggest that cyber-electronic operations are a vital part of Russia’s hybrid warfare strategy. This article introduces a novel aspect to the existing analysis by regarding Russia’s cyber-electronic operations not merely as a tool, but also as a decisive element of its hybrid warfare strategy. Within this context, it conducts a thorough examination of Russia’s utilization of these operations to procure a strategic advantage across political, economic, informational, and conventional warfare domains.