Digital command in irregular warfare: NATO military leadership communication adaptation during Crisis operations (2019–2024)
SMALL WARS AND INSURGENCIES, cilt.2025, sa.2025, ss.1-37, 2025 (ESCI, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 2025 Sayı: 2025
- Basım Tarihi: 2025
- Doi Numarası: 10.1080/09592318.2025.2557618
- Dergi Adı: SMALL WARS AND INSURGENCIES
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Scopus, Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), International Bibliography of Social Sciences, Periodicals Index Online, American History and Life, Historical Abstracts, Index Islamicus, Political Science Complete, Sociological abstracts, Worldwide Political Science Abstracts
- Sayfa Sayıları: ss.1-37
- İstanbul Medipol Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Contemporary irregular warfare demands adaptable command structures operating across multiple communication platforms. Military leaders must navigate complex information environments while maintaining operational effectiveness and engaging diverse stakeholders. This study examines NATO military commanders’ communication strategy adaptations during irregular warfare by analyzing official statements, press releases, and speeches from senior commanders across multiple countries (2019-2024). Using a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative communication pattern analysis with qualitative content analysis grounded in irregular warfare theory and strategic communication frameworks, this paper investigates adaptations across three contexts: pandemic response operations, proxy conflict support, and regional stabilization missions involving hybrid threats. Results reveal consistent adaptation patterns: substantial communication frequency increases during irregular operations, notable shifts toward press releases as primary channels, and significant expansion in operational content focus. The study proposes a three-phase Official Communication Adaptation model encompassing initial response surge, sustained elevation above normal levels, and gradual operational integration with enhanced crisis responsiveness. Cross-national analysis demonstrates moderate consistency among NATO countries, with communication adaptations evident across all alliance members while maintaining institutional flexibility.