Islamic Republic of Iran Army Cyber Offensive Evaluation Model

Abstract

Objective: This research was carried out to provide a model for evaluating the cyber offensive power of the army of the Islamic Republic of Iran.Method: The implementation method of this research is descriptive, by applied type, which is done with a mixed approach. Seven experts from the army's cyberspace were selected for interviews to theoretical saturation by purposeful sampling. The statistical population for the questionnaire included some staff of the army of the Islamic Republic of Iran with at least a bachelor's degree in the cyber science. In addition, they have served at least 10 years in cyber career positions. the statistical population included 79 people, so the census method was used to distribute the questionnaires. First, document study and interviews were used to collect data. After that, the questionnaire was used. The reliability of the questionnaire was confirmed with Cronbach's alpha. Qualitative data analysis was done using content analysis method and quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS software Findings: Manpower, cyber complexity, cyber weapons and cyber situational awareness are the most important components that the finding of this research were 12 indicators for evaluating cyber offensive power. It also provided a model to evaluate the cyber offensive power of the army of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Conclusion: This model illustrates that the autonomy of the cyber weapon should be considered by the manufacturers in the design and construction of cyber weapons (embodied and disembodied). On the other hand, quality of manpower with a wide range of technical skills, creativity, who have high situational awareness with proper training, is necessary to use these weapons and overcome cyber complexities.

Keywords

• cyberspace
• cyber power
• cyber offensive