Joint Command and Control of Cyber Operations: The Joint Force Cyber Component Command (JFCCC)

Abstract : The evolution of technology has introduced sophisticated means to store, process, and transport information. Because the U.S. military establishment relies so heavily on complex command and control systems and interconnectivity in general, cyber warfare has become a serious topic of interest at the operational level of war. Joint doctrine acknowledges the impact of information technology advancements on the tempo, lethality, and complexity of warfare. Combatant Commands routinely confront unique challenges related to cyber space as they attempt to conceptualize and integrate offensive and defensive cyber warfare into current and future operations and plans. In particular, Joint Task Force (JTF) Commanders must develop an optimum method to command and control cyber forces. Comparing and contrasting the warfighting domains and historical introduction of nascent technologies will help to develop a command and control structure that effectively supports cyber operations. This paper recommends establishing a functional cyber component command within the joint task force as the optimal way to command and control cyber operations.