Impact of Cyberattacks on Functionality of NC3 Systems and Strategic Deterrence

U.S. nuclear command, control, and communications systems (NC3) capabilities and arsenal are spread across an expansive and widely diverse geographic area. NC3 systems are composed of many diverse parts, making it difficult to understand how these systems work in conjunction with one another to promotestrategic deterrence. As many NC3 systems move into cyberspace, vulnerabilities are becoming more apparent and dangerous. Consequently, cyberattacks could introduce doubt in the reliability of NC3 systems and the strategic deterrence of the nation, specifically when related to detection characterization, decision-making, and the management of forces. The exploitation of information system integrity poses a particularly great threat to NC3, considering that appropriate strategic decisions can’t be made when there is a lack of reliable data. However, if the technology and logistics involving NC3 systems are modernized, it could mitigate the negative impacts that a  cyberattack could have on the integrity of the system and strategic deterrence as a whole.