Cognitive Warfare

OVERVIEW

The Russians use an explicit and elaborate Soviet-era theory called “reflexive control” to this end. They design information operations to create a false image of the world in the minds of their opponents, so that their opponents will choose actions thinking to advance their own interests when, in fact, they advance Russia’s. China, Iran, and other actors are increasingly developing their own similar methods and campaigns in ways that overlap with Russia’s to produce aggregate effects.
 
These operations target Western and allied decision-makers to shape outcomes that benefit US adversaries. ISW’s Cognitive Warfare Task Force reveals adversary tactics and strategies and links information operations to their intended objectives. This analysis enables the United States and its allies to forecast future operations and develop effective countermeasures.