Each wave of these attacks continues to demonstrate a new and more evolved capability on the part of our adversaries. In light of these circumstances, it would appear that we may be quickly coming to a critical juncture in the way we respond to these threats and ultimately defend our country. Clausewitz argued that this is the place where the blows must be aimed and where the decision should be reached. He failed to develop the idea of generating many non-cooperative centers of gravity by striking at those vulnerable yet critical tendons, connections, and activities that permit a larger center of gravity to exist. The enemy is deceived and again deceived.
Attacks are sudden, sharp, vicious, and of short duration.
The mind of the enemy and the will of his leaders is a target of far more importance than the bodies of his troops. Admittedly, it is unlikely that attacks on America's computer infrastructure will cause the kind of massive numbers of dead and wounded citizens that we would normally attribute to either conventional terrorism or open warfare. On recent evidence, none of these attributes are present to any degree, and across the world a risk-averse approach to warfare in all its forms has seeped into the corridors of power. But, that is to seek the very silver bullet that does not exist. As David proved to Goliath, strength can be beaten.