Abstract:

There is no denying that the evolution of warfare of the twenty-first century has changed. It is now being fought off the battlefield, and in digital and informational environments. Cyberwarfare is becoming a key lever, not just in diplomacy, but also in military maneuvering. It has allowed countries to interfere with, hijack or disable enemy systems without sending troops or crossing borders. Data breaches, electronic meddling and digital spying are posing new challenges to our very definition of sovereignty, and the norms of international humanitarian law. The current warfare battle between India and Pakistan is a prime example; the two nations are showing such techniques, using cutting-edge aeronautical technologies and cyber-warfare strategies. It shows how in the present warfare it is physical fighting technology that mixes with technology as the tool to accomplish things, though digitally. Both sides, of course, will not adequately face the knowledge that they have used these tactics. This article addresses this condition and highlights how cyberwarfare in the era of the internet has changed deterrence, added normative and legal complications to our minds and confused the distinction between “peace” and “war”. It presumes that future conflicts will center on control of information instead of on gaining territory. It stresses more that states need to build up sound policies and methods for coordination in cyber governance.