Coordination in Offensive and Defensive Cyberoperations: Dissecting China, Russia, and NATO's Approaches in Cyberspace

This dissertation delves into the intricate dynamics of offensive and defensive cyber operations by analyzing the approaches of China, Russia, and NATO in cyberspace. The study investigates the critical role of coordination in cyber operations, assessing its impact on national and international security. The research is structured into several chapters, beginning with a comprehensive literature review that explores the evolution of cyber operations, their effectiveness, and the limits of cyber warfare. It also examines the offense-defense balance in cyberspace and the importance of coordination for successful cyber operations. The core research questions focus on conceptualizing the lack of coordination in cyberspace and understanding its implications for the effectiveness of cyber operations. The dissertation explores these questions through methodological and empirical perspectives, including case studies on Sino-Russian coordination during the Ukraine war and the internal dynamics of Russian intelligence agencies. The study also assesses the potential of artificial intelligence to enhance coordination in cyber operations, as demonstrated in the NATO Locked Shields exercise. By integrating theoretical insights with practical case studies, this dissertation provides a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities in cyber operations. It highlights the need for a balanced approach that considers both offensive and defensive strategies, emphasizing the importance of effective coordination to protect critical infrastructure and maintain security in the digital age. The findings contribute to the broader field of international relations and security studies, offering practical recommendations for improving cybersecurity policies and strategies.