THE ROLE OF "THINK TANKS" IN THE USA INFORMATION WARFARE SYSTEM

Abstract

Aim. To investigate the activities of the U.S.’ “think tanks” in Russia in terms of the intelligence functions they perform to misinform the enemy.Methodology. By implementing historical sources analysis, content analysis and case studies, the author investigated the U.S.’ think tanks activities and the history of their participation in the informational and psychological warfare against Russia during the SMO in Ukraine in 2022; the intelligence product offered by “think tanks” was also examined in the study.Results. The study established that private intelligence companies operate under the legend of “think tanks” in USA. They have a significant informational and psychological influence both on a potential enemy (misinform the enemy, induce the enemy to act in a certain manner) and on the domestic and foreign policies of the United States itself.Research implications. The findings of the study can become the basis for the development of practical recommendations for the Russian authorities on building communication and business relations with the Western think tanks.

Keywords

• private intelligence
• hybrid warfare
• non-classical warfare
• think tank
• information operations
• PSYOP