Identification of the components and indicators of cognitive warfare affecting the social and military behavior of personnel in battlefield management

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Command and Staff College, AJA Command and Staff University, Tehran, Iran.

2 Support Group, Support Training Center, Tehran, Iran

3 Department of Social Sciences, Faculty of Social Sciences, AJA Command and Staff University, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Cognitive warfare, by influencing the perception and behavior of forces, has emerged as a primary challenge in battlefield management, underscoring the critical need to comprehend its multifaceted dimensions. This study aims to provide a comprehensive approach to identifying the components and indicators of cognitive warfare that impact the social and military behavior of personnel, with the ultimate objective of formulating strategies to enhance capabilities and reduce vulnerabilities against such threats. The central research question addressed is: What are the components and indicators of cognitive warfare in battlefield management that affect the social and military behavior of personnel? This research was conducted qualitatively using documentary content analysis, with data extracted from credible scientific sources and analyzed through documentary and comparative methods. The findings reveal that cognitive warfare influences the social and military behavior of forces through components such as perception and cognition (indicators including information analysis capability and media literacy), emotions and feelings (morale and motivation), social structure (group cohesion), and the information environment (cyber space management), thereby affecting the success of operations. The study concludes that strengthening perception, enhancing morale and cohesion among forces, and effectively managing information through cognitive skill training and resilient cyber infrastructure are key strategies for countering cognitive warfare. This multidimensional approach can significantly improve the performance and decision-making of forces on the battlefield.

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Defensive Researches and Management
Volume 24, Issue 108 - Serial Number 2
Summer 2025
September 2025

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History

  • Receive Date: 08 March 2025
  • Revise Date: 05 May 2025
  • Accept Date: 13 September 2025

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