What forms of aggression must be considered in future deterrence theory?

Considering future deterrence theory, it is essential to acknowledge cyber-attacks and terrorism as significant forms of aggression due to the evolving nature of conflicts and threats in the modern landscape. Cyber-attacks represent a non-kinetic form of aggression that can disrupt critical infrastructure, steal sensitive information, and undermine national security without the need for traditional military confrontation. This modality of aggression often operates beneath the threshold of conventional warfare, making it challenging to deter through conventional military means.

Similarly, terrorism embodies a form of aggression that seeks to instill fear, disrupt societal norms, and challenge governmental authority through violent acts targeting civilian populations or specific political goals. The complexity of deterrence becomes particularly pronounced when addressing these forms of aggression, as they often involve non-state actors and can manifest unpredictably. Therefore, incorporating an understanding of cyber threats and terrorist activities into deterrence theory is crucial for developing effective strategies to preemptively counteract or respond to these modern challenges.