NPS NRP Executive SummaryOur nation and allies are coming under increased attack by states and non-state actors who seek to exploit our vulnerabilities through employ non-attributable actions below the threshold of war in order to weaken our competitive advantage across all domains, steal intellectual property, or undermine the cohesiveness of our alliances. These hybrid threats can be in the form of hacking networks, cyber-attacks against critical infrastructure, disinformation campaigns, electoral interference, etc. These unconventional actions cannot be responsibly answered with conventional military forces and thus require a new set of response options. This research seeks to answer three broad questions on hybrid threats: what are the current hybrid threat challenges, how should we respond, and what do we need in order to execute such a response? The answers to these questions will achieve the main objectives of this research. First, arrive at a common understanding on the concept of hybrid threats. Second, develop an analytical framework to support designing actions to address and combat hybrid threats. Lastly, identify key issues and capability gaps for further research. The research methodology will begin with understanding the current depth of knowledge on hybrid threats, then developing case states to expand this knowledge, and lastly developing an analytical framework to combat hybrid threats. The analytical framework will help assess the actor, domain(s), methods, and desired intentions and objectives.N7 - Warfighting DevelopmentThis research is supported by funding from the Naval Postgraduate School, Naval Research Program (PE 0605853N/2098). https://nps.edu/nrpChief of Naval Operations (CNO)Approved for public release. Distribution is unlimited.
