Abstract:
This dissertation analyzes the organizational design, establishment, and evolution of the United States Cyber Command. Since its activation in 2009, the United States Cyber Command has been at the forefront of the changing character of war and the subject of numerous debates among and between members of the executive and legislative branches of the United States Government. Topics explored in this dissertation include early efforts by the Department of Defense to integrate cyberspace operations with traditional military activities, the dual-hat leadership arrangement whereby the commander of Cyber Command also serves as the Director of the National Security Agency, and the relationship between the Department of Defense and Congress regarding military cyberspace operations. The findings of this research provide insight for policymakers interested in how the Department of Defense organizes to address emerging threats, as well as contribute to the knowledge of policy implementation.
