Bridges and Ladders: Building the Logic and Structure for Cyberspace

This thesis analyzes the organizational construct for command and control in cyberspace. Under the current model, USCYBERCOM utilizes a Centralized Control and Centralized Execution philosophy that runs counter to Air Force core tenants. The author illustrates how the air, space, and cyberspace domains are tied together to bridge the gap between United States interests and enemies afar. Building on the interconnectedness of the three domains, the author provides an in-depth examination of how those domains utilize three different command and control models to leverage effects. The first chapter captures how the AOC controls flexible global power missions to deliver kinetic effects at subsonic speeds. The next chapter studies how the JSpOC controls the constellations of spaceborne satellites to deliver near real-time effects. The final case study illustrates how the USCYBERCOM command and control model defends and attacks from the GIG. By comparing and contrasting the three models, the author makes a recommendation for a hybrid model to command and control cyberspace. Only by authorizing the COCOMs to take some ownership of the cyber domain can they continue to develop the most effective and efficient strategies for their AORs, and to defend and attack at the speed of fiber optic light.