Publisher's Synopsis
The U.S. Army recognizes the ongoing threat posed by our adversaries' strategic efforts to integrate information operations (IO), cyberspace operations, and emerging technologies that challenge U.S. freedom of maneuver across all domains. As a result, the U.S. Army is posturing for a doctrinal shift toward multi-domain operations, which will increase the role of information in warfighting. As it does, the U.S. Army faces challenges and disparities regarding IO in design and practice. Current U.S. Army IO doctrine, terminology, and overall structure is insufficient and does not facilitate a conceptual shared understanding. This leads to systemic underperformance of tactical units in the information environment and suboptimal integration of IO in strategy and plans. Similarly, the U.S. Army community of IO practitioners faces an identity crisis that degrades the profession's cohesion, influence, and overall ability to operate effectively. To overcome these challenges, a critical examination of U.S. Army IO in design and practice is first required to reveal the scope of the disparity. Then, the application of social network analysis and social identity theories reveals potential solutions in IO training, education, and organization that will enable the U.S. Army to become more competitive in the information environment. This investment will enhance the Army's ability to seamlessly integrate and execute information warfare in current and future conflicts.
