No Shortcuts: Why States Struggle to Develop a Military Cyber-Force

Over the past decade, states have declared cyberspace as a new domain of warfare, leading to policy talk and concern about the future of warfare and the digital vulnerability of society. No Shortcuts provides a level-headed view of where we are in the militarization of cyberspace and argues that for many states, the barriers to entry into conflict in cyberspace are too high.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 20 July 2023
Publisher: C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd

Over the past decade, numerous states have declared cyberspace as a new domain of warfare, seeking to develop a military cyber strategy and establish a cyber command. These developments have sparked considerable policy talk and concern about the future of warfare and the digital vulnerability of society. In his book, No Shortcuts, Max Smeets provides a balanced view of where we stand in the militarization of cyberspace. Smeets bridges the gap between technology and policy to assess the necessary building blocks for states to develop a military cyber capacity. He argues that for many states, the barriers to entry into conflict in cyberspace are currently too high. Accompanied by a wide range of empirical examples, Smeets demonstrates why governments' abilities to develop military cyber capabilities may change over time and explains the limits of capability transfer by states and private actors.

The militarization of cyberspace has been a topic of significant discussion in recent years. As technology continues to advance and the internet becomes an increasingly integral part of society, states have begun to recognize the potential for cyber warfare and the need to develop a military cyber strategy. This has led to the establishment of cyber commands and the development of military cyber capabilities.

One of the key challenges facing states in the militarization of cyberspace is the high barrier to entry. Unlike traditional forms of warfare, where states need to invest in large amounts of equipment and personnel, cyber warfare can be conducted with relatively little resources. This has made it easier for smaller countries and non-state actors to engage in cyber warfare, which can have significant consequences for national security.

Another challenge is the potential for cyber warfare to cause widespread disruption and destruction. Cyber attacks can target critical infrastructure such as power grids, transportation systems, and financial institutions, causing widespread economic damage and social unrest. Additionally, cyber attacks can also be used to spread misinformation and propaganda, which can further destabilize societies.

Despite these challenges, states are continuing to invest in military cyber capabilities. This investment is driven by a variety of factors, including the need to protect national security, the desire to assert dominance in cyberspace, and the fear of being left behind in the rapidly evolving field of technology.

One of the key strategies that states are using to develop military cyber capabilities is the establishment of cyber commands. These commands are responsible for developing and implementing military cyber strategies, as well as coordinating the activities of military units and other government agencies involved in cyber warfare.

Another strategy is the development of military cyber capabilities through the acquisition of advanced technology. This includes the development of cyber weapons, the use of cyber espionage, and the development of defensive measures to protect against cyber attacks.

In addition to these strategies, states are also working to develop international cooperation in the militarization of cyberspace. This includes the establishment of international norms and regulations governing cyber warfare, as well as the sharing of information and best practices in cyber security.

Despite these efforts, there are still significant challenges facing the militarization of cyberspace. One of the biggest challenges is the lack of a clear legal framework governing cyber warfare. This lack of clarity has made it difficult for states to determine the legal consequences of their actions in cyberspace, which can lead to uncertainty and instability.

Another challenge is the potential for cyber warfare to escalate into traditional forms of warfare. As cyber capabilities continue to improve, it may become easier for cyber attacks to cross the line. This could lead to a situation where traditional military forces

In conclusion, the militarization of cyberspace has been a significant development in recent years, with numerous states declaring cyberspace as a new domain of warfare and seeking to develop a military cyber strategy and establish a cyber command. While there are significant challenges facing the militarization of cyberspace, states are continuing to invest in military cyber capabilities to protect national security and assert dominance in cyberspace. However, there is still a need for a clear legal framework governing cyber warfare, as well as international cooperation to address the potential for cyber warfare to escalate into traditional forms of warfare.

Weight: 346g
Dimension: 217 x 137 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781805260332