Non-kinetic operations encompass activities that do not cause direct physical harm but can have a significant impact on the outcome of a conflict. Recently, we have seen, for example, how cyber attacks on the Public Prosecution Service and around the NATO summit have taken place. There is also an increasing Russian threat, where Russia uses “covert influence to shape public debate and the political-administrative decision-making process”, according to one of the many conclusions from the ‘Dreigingsbeeld Statelijke Actoren 2025’ by the AIVD, MIVD, and NCTV. The changing world and the focus on non-kinetic effects are altering how defence organisations will have to operate.
A new dimension
Non-kinetic operations require in-depth knowledge of the cognitive and virtual dimensions of conflicts. The NLR programme ‘Information readiness and operations’ focuses on sustainably supporting Defence in acquiring and maintaining high information superiority through integrated non-kinetic activities and effects.
NLR is working on various knowledge-building programmes to develop knowledge and resources for Defence, for example, to improve the protection of its own systems against cyber attacks and electromagnetic activities. Additionally, we are researching how a superior understanding of the complex (information) environment can be obtained to support rapid and accurate decision-making and actions.
NLR is also working on creating virtual communities using LLM that can be deployed for testing, training, and education of information operations. Finally, research is being conducted on the application of modelling and simulation techniques in both the cyber and cognitive domains to support training and experimentation.
These initiatives demonstrate the breadth of knowledge building that NLR undertakes to support Defence in its missions.
Future perspective
The future of non-kinetic operations will be characterised by an increasing focus on advanced technologies and methods. There will also be a greater emphasis on combining multiple domains to create effects in all dimensions (virtual, physical, cognitive). Multidomain action will be essential to increase resilience against hybrid threats. NLR plays a crucial role in the development of knowledge and expertise in this field. Through research, development, and collaboration, defence can adapt to the changes in the world of conflicts and operate more effectively. Focus on a safe society is essential to increase resilience against hybrid threats.
