Cyber Warfare in Operation Epic Fury

The recent joint US-Israel operation, Operation Epic Fury, has been marked by surprise kinetic strikes and Iran’s retaliation to its neighbors. However, beneath the surface of these visible attacks, there may have been invisible strikes brought about through cyber operations.

Understanding Cyber Operations

Although there has been no official word from the US or Israel that cyber effects were used in the first 48 hours of the conflict, it is likely that cyber capabilities have played a role. Given the reality of modern-day warfare and the long history of cyber war specifically around Iran, it seems implausible that cyber capabilities have not been used.

Breaking Defense spoke to seven sources, ranging from former senior-level cyber officials to operators to military cyber lawyers, to understand how the early days of a cyber operation such as Epic Fury would likely unfold. All seven sources said they had no inside knowledge of the actual operations, but their insights are likely to match up to the kind of efforts US Cyber Command and US Central Command would be exploring.

Role of Cyber in Modern Warfare

One former Pentagon cyber official noted that following the operations in Venezuela to capture former President Nicolás Maduro, there is a greater appreciation for the role of cyber, with current officials seemingly more willing to talk about the use of cyber in planning and integration of kinetic operations.

Cyber has been part of the planning and integration with operations going back 10-plus years, and one of CYBERCOM’s three stated missions is to conduct cyber operations for combatant commanders and the joint force.

Defensive Posture

Ahead of any action, the sources said, the first move planners would have been undertaken is a defensive posture to protect military communications systems and networks. Iran has reasonably capable cyber operators that have gotten significantly better over the last handful of years.

Therefore, it is essential to understand the role of cyber in modern warfare and how it can be used to gain a strategic advantage. Meanwhile, the use of cyber operations in Operation Epic Fury highlights the importance of cyber in contemporary conflict.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the use of cyber operations in Operation Epic Fury is a significant aspect of modern warfare. Additionally, it is crucial to recognize the importance of cyber in planning and integration of kinetic operations. Finally, the role of cyber in contemporary conflict will continue to evolve, and it is essential to stay ahead of the curve.

For example, military leaders can take the following steps to enhance their cyber capabilities:

• Invest in cyber infrastructure and personnel
• Develop a comprehensive cyber strategy
• Conduct regular cyber exercises and training

By taking these steps, military leaders can ensure that they are prepared to face the challenges of cyber warfare and gain a strategic advantage in contemporary conflict.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about cyber operations in Operation Epic Fury:

1. What is the role of cyber in Operation Epic Fury? The role of cyber in Operation Epic Fury is to support kinetic operations and gain a strategic advantage.
2. How has the use of cyber operations evolved in modern warfare? The use of cyber operations has become more sophisticated and integrated with kinetic operations.
3. What can military leaders do to enhance their cyber capabilities? Military leaders can invest in cyber infrastructure and personnel, develop a comprehensive cyber strategy, and conduct regular cyber exercises and training.
4. What is the significance of cyber operations in contemporary conflict? Cyber operations are a significant aspect of contemporary conflict, and their use can provide a strategic advantage.
5. How can cyber operations be used to support kinetic operations? Cyber operations can be used to disrupt enemy command and control systems, disable critical infrastructure, and gather intelligence.