Publication

This paper examines the information operations and strategy of the so-called Islamic State (IS), to include how it administers its media activities, the reasons behind IS’ ‘virtual’ successes, and the potential long-term impact of its approach to information warfare (IW). Some of the author’s specific findings include the following: 1) IW has been absolutely integral to IS’ overall strategy; 2) the group will most likely continue to align its military and information operations in the future; and 3) the current information campaign has enabled IS to survive and execute wide-ranging terror attacks. Indeed, the campaign has been successful enough that a ‘Virtual Caliphate’ that operates independently of the group may come about.