The Importance of Marine Corps Information Operations in Modern Warfare
Marines often say,”Every Marine is a rifleman,” and this is particularly true when it comes to information operations (IO). Historically, the Marine Corps has been a force of expeditionary warriors, having played a significant role in various conflicts. In modern warfare, the importance of information operations has become crucial in the success of any military operation.
What are Information Operations (IO)?
IOs are defined as the integrated employment of electronic warfare, computer network operations, psychological operations, military deception, and operations security. The primary objective of IO is to influence, disrupt, and deny the enemy’s decision-making process. IO not only provides commanders with situational awareness but also enhances the effectiveness of the combat forces.
Why are IOs Important in Modern Warfare?
The effects of IO are undeniable. Modern warfare is an increasingly complex battlefield, and IOs provide Allied forces with capabilities vital for success. Quick access to information, as well as the ability to manage and protect it from cyber adversaries, have become crucial.”The ability to collect, process, and disseminate information is key to success on the modern battlefield,” said Lt. Gen. Vincent Stewart, USMC (Ret.).
IOs are crucial because they are used in many areas of modern warfare, including cyber and electronic warfare, which are becoming increasingly important as the fog of war is lifted. Electronic warfare (EW) operations, which jam enemy signals and deceive their sense of direction, are essential for victory in today’s conflicts. Cyber warfare also provides an avenue for Marine cyber defenders to defend their networks and cripple enemy networks using technological means.
Case studies highlighting the importance of IO
In the Persian Gulf War, IO played a significant role in both the buildup and the ultimate victory. By leveraging the latest information technology, the Marine Corps successfully tracked the enemy’s communication patterns and exploited these vulnerabilities whenever possible. This allowed coalition forces to direct fire at critical targets more accurately.
In 2018, the US Marine Corps Forces Africa used IO to set up and execute a scenario-based training exercise. This training, which successfully tested Marines on their ability to support infantry, relied heavily on the use of cyber and EW tools. The exercise demonstrated the potency of these tools in modern military operations and how they are vital to the success of the Marines.
Conclusion
The Marine Corps’ focus on IO is evidence that information dominance and its impact on modern warfare cannot be understated. The ability to collect and process information and then use it effectively is critical to effective military operations. IOs not only provide essential support to commanders in the field, but they also have far-reaching implications in the realm of cyber and electronic warfare. As such, IO is key to modern warfare, and the Marine Corps is leading the way in ensuring that the force is ready for any challenge that comes its way.
