To read more
Research & Innovation
Newsletter
Volume 1 l Issue 1 - 2023
The article argues that ambiguity is the defining characteristic of hybrid
warfare and that it is adaptable to changing circumstances, technological
advancements, and social changes, making it likely to endure. The author
believes that declaring hybrid warfare as a doctrinal definition of irregular
warfare is a mistake. Instead, the focus should be on understanding the
essence of hybrid warfare and why it is fought.
The article identifies ambiguity as a political connotation that requires
coherence from the strategic to the tactical level to be effective. Strategic
clarity, a full spectrum of flexible means, and the skilled use of military and
non-military dimensions of war are essential for success in hybrid warfare.
The case studies of the war in eastern Ukraine and the South China Sea
dispute illustrate how ambiguity has been employed in hybrid warfare. In
Ukraine, Russia's use of hybrid warfare allowed it to seize the initiative and
achieve a political and military result that would have been difficult and
costly through other means. The tactical Battalion Groups played a crucial
role in securing a quick military victory. The Western reaction of imposing
economic sanctions on Russia had some political impact but did not fully
diminish the result achieved by Russia.
Hybrid warfare: The continuation
of ambiguity by other means
Page 6
Full article published in:
European Journal of International Security, Volume 8, Issue 2 | pp. 192 – 206 | 2023
Dr. Pascal Carlucci
Andrew Mumford
Defense & Security
Zayed Military University
In the South China Sea, China has pursued dual policy objectives of expanding its economic reach and asserting its
power. It has employed ambiguity to promote itself as an alternative leader in the global economy while safeguarding its
national interests. China has used a range of statecraft, military, police, and civilian means to achieve its objectives,
including exploiting loopholes in international maritime law. While China's approach has been slower and less violent
than Russia's, it has still achieved significant results without facing significant direct pressure from the United States.
The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of understanding how ambiguity works in hybrid warfare, as both
Russia and China have demonstrated mastery of this warfighting ability. The West needs to comprehend and respond
effectively to ambiguity in order to navigate the challenges posed by hybrid warfare in the context of great power
competition.