PROCEEDINGS
STRATEGIES XXI-INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE THE COMPLEX AND DYNAMIC NATURE OF THE SECURITY ENVIRONMENT 21st Edition
PROCEEDINGS
STRATEGIES XXI-INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE THE COMPLEX AND DYNAMIC NATURE OF THE SECURITY ENVIRONMENT 21st Edition
Contributor(s): Florian CÎRCIUMARU (Editor), Daniela Lică (Editor)
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Social Sciences, Communication studies, Security and defense, Military policy, Geopolitics, Politics and Identity, Peace and Conflict Studies, Fake News - Disinformation, Hybrid Warfare
ISSN: 2668-6511
Published by: Carol I National Defence University Publishing House
Keywords: strategic environment; security policy; defence strategy; modern warfare; strategic trends;
Summary/Abstract: SECURITY AND DEFENCE IN A SHIFTING STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENT.FROM CONCEPTS, STRATEGIES AND POLICIES TO STRATEGIC TRENDS; AND DEVELOPMENTS IN AREAS OF STRATEGIC INTEREST; INSTRUMENTS OF CURRENT WARFARE.
Series: STRATEGII - Sesiunea de Comunicări Științifice
- Page Count: 234
- Publication Year: 2025
- Language: English
STRATEGIES AND STRATEGIC PLANNING IN BULGARIA
STRATEGIES AND STRATEGIC PLANNING IN BULGARIA
(STRATEGIES AND STRATEGIC PLANNING IN BULGARIA)
- Author(s):Grudi ANGELOV
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Governance, Public Administration
- Page Range:9-18
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:national strategy; strategic planning; goals; national power; policy.
- Summary/Abstract:This report examines the importance of national strategy and strategic planning in Bulgaria, as well as the lack of a unified understanding of the terminology used by political leaders and the state administration regarding strategic planning in the Republic of Bulgaria. On the one hand, it highlights the absence of a national strategy for the Republic of Bulgaria, which could serve as a foundation for developing all other strategic documents: strategies, doctrines, concepts, and plans. On the other hand, it justifies the need for creating a unified model for the development of strategies and for the creation of a National Strategy of the Republic of Bulgaria, which would serve as the cornerstone for the development of sectoral policies and strategies. In relation to identifying the necessity of creating a national strategy for the Republic of Bulgaria and designing an effective model for its formulation, the systems approach has been employed utilizing a cyclically reversed application of analysis and synthesis methods, grounded in systematic decomposition and aggregation, which together constitute the methodology of this article.
STRATEGIC COORDINATION, INSTITUTIONAL FRAGMENTATION AND POLICY CHALLENGES IN GOVERNING ROMANIA’S NATIONAL SECURITY
STRATEGIC COORDINATION, INSTITUTIONAL FRAGMENTATION AND POLICY CHALLENGES IN GOVERNING ROMANIA’S NATIONAL SECURITY
(STRATEGIC COORDINATION, INSTITUTIONAL FRAGMENTATION AND POLICY CHALLENGES IN GOVERNING ROMANIA’S NATIONAL SECURITY)
- Author(s):Niculae IANCU
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Governance, Security and defense
- Page Range:19-31
- No. of Pages:13
- Keywords:Institutional Fragmentation in National Security; Executive Power Dynamics in Security Governance; Neoclassical Realism and National Security Policy; Semi-Presidentialism and Security Decision-Making.
- Summary/Abstract:Romania’s national security governance operates within a complex institutional framework, where strategic coordination must balance national priorities and resource constraints with international commitments. The interaction between institutional mandates, jurisdictional boundaries, and decision-making processes influences governance effectiveness, yet persistent fragmentation affects policy coherence and strategic consistency. This paper examines how these dynamics impact decision-making within the Supreme Council of National Defence (CSAT), particularly in relation to the President’s strategic leadership and the Government’s executive role. Applying Neoclassical Realism to examine the interplay between external pressures and domestic political constraints, alongside New Institutionalism to account for the influence of both formal structures and informal practices on the national security apparatus within the Security Studies domain, this paper evaluates the extent to which national security governance fosters institutional effectiveness. The findings suggest that Romania’s national security governance exhibits both cooperative fragmentation, where institutions collaborate while maintaining autonomy, and conflictive fragmentation, which stems from executive competition and jurisdictional overlaps. They contribute to broader academic discussions on institutional fragmentation, governance efficiency, and executive power dynamics within national security frameworks, particularly in post-communist and NATO-aligned states.
HUNGARY’S EVOLVING DEFENCE POLICY: FROM SECURITY CONSUMER TO STRATEGIC AUTONOMY WITHIN NATO
HUNGARY’S EVOLVING DEFENCE POLICY: FROM SECURITY CONSUMER TO STRATEGIC AUTONOMY WITHIN NATO
(HUNGARY’S EVOLVING DEFENCE POLICY: FROM SECURITY CONSUMER TO STRATEGIC AUTONOMY WITHIN NATO)
- Author(s):Bence FARAGO
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Security and defense
- Page Range:32-48
- No. of Pages:17
- Keywords:Hungary in NATO; military modernisation; strategic autonomy; defence policy; regional security.
- Summary/Abstract:Hungary’s post-Cold War security trajectory has undergone a profound transformation, shifting from a security consumer dependent on NATO guarantees to an increasingly autonomous actor within the Alliance. This paper examines the strategic recalibration of Hungarian defense policy, focusing on military modernisation directives, preparation for hybrid security threats, and the underlying geopolitical balancing. Through an analysis of Hungary’s National Security and Military Strategies, its updated legal framework about the operational principles of the armed forces and semi-governmental documents, this study explores how Budapest has pursued a dual-track approach – strengthening its NATO commitments while simultaneously enhancing national defense capabilities, especially in the face of non-conventional threats and engaging in strategic hedging. Key drivers of this shift include geopolitical instability, energy security concerns, and the securitization of migration. The findings highlight Hungary’s attempt to navigate the constraints and opportunities of middle-power status in an era of growing strategic competition, offering insights into the challenges of balancing Alliance commitments with national strategic autonomy.
THE NEW NATO POLICY ON RESERVES. A ROMANIAN PROJECT TO IMPLEMENT IT
THE NEW NATO POLICY ON RESERVES. A ROMANIAN PROJECT TO IMPLEMENT IT
(THE NEW NATO POLICY ON RESERVES. A ROMANIAN PROJECT TO IMPLEMENT IT)
- Author(s):Crăişor-Constantin IONIȚĂ, Elena-Adriana BRUMARU
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Security and defense, Military policy
- Page Range:49-56
- No. of Pages:8
- Keywords:Reserve policy; reserve forces; Voluntary Reserve; whole-of-society; resilience; human resource.
- Summary/Abstract:Being under the influence and lessons identified from the existing conventional war in Ukraine, NATO came back to Collective Defense operations, bringing them into a new era of Article 5 that makes the Alliance to become ready today to face tomorrow’s challenges. The new focus on deterrence and defense to safeguard the freedom and security of Allies within 360-degre approach, as it is described in the respective concept for the Euro-Atlantic area(DDA), approved in 2020, necessitates two very important aspects. The first one concerns an adjusted balance between robust in-place forces and reinforcements to strengthen deterrence and the Alliance’s ability to defend. The second is related to build national and Alliance-wide resilience as a national responsibility and a collective commitment. Both aspects involve the existence of robust reserves and reserve forces with vital role played in NATO’s defense and deterrence, as well as in the whole spectrum of national and NATO’s defense structures. This is why NATO has revised its policy on reserves (MC 0441/3 FINAL) at the end of 2024 to highlight their societal, operational and transformative value. Even being considered as a national responsibility and prerogative, the Alliance is keen to support the development of reserves through a whole-of-society perspective and to enhance their utilization in contributing to NATO’s core tasks, operations and missions. By following this new policy, all Allies, including Romania, should take all necessary measures to increase the level and importance of reserves and reserve forces inside their Armed Forces.
CHALLENGES OF ILLEGAL MIGRATION IN THE CONTEXT OF ROMANIA’S ACCESSION TO THE SCHENGEN AREA
CHALLENGES OF ILLEGAL MIGRATION IN THE CONTEXT OF ROMANIA’S ACCESSION TO THE SCHENGEN AREA
(CHALLENGES OF ILLEGAL MIGRATION IN THE CONTEXT OF ROMANIA’S ACCESSION TO THE SCHENGEN AREA)
- Author(s):Emanuel Sebastian Georgescu
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Asylum, Refugees, Migration as Policy-fields
- Page Range:57-68
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:Romania; illegal migration; Schengen Area; border security; smuggling network; European Cooperation.
- Summary/Abstract:Romania’s accession to the Schengen Area presents significant opportunities and challenges, particularly regarding the management of illegal migration. The elimination of internal border controls within the EU could increase migration flows and facilitate the operations of smuggling networks. Secondary migration, involving migrants relocating to other Schengen countries through illicit means, emerges as a critical concern. Romania's borders with Serbia, Ukraine, and Moldova are highlighted as vulnerable points requiring advanced security measures, including UAVs, thermal imaging, and motion sensors. Enhanced cooperation with neighboring countries and European agencies like FRONTEX, Europol, and Eurojust is essential to address these challenges. Romania's strategic role in safeguarding the EU's external borders is underscored, emphasizing the need for modern technologies, international collaboration, and integrated policies. Effective management of migration flows will strengthen both national and EU security, positioning Romania as a model in addressing illegal migration and regional stability.
RECENT INTERNATIONAL SECURITY CRISES-CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK AND EMPIRICAL INSIGHTS
RECENT INTERNATIONAL SECURITY CRISES-CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK AND EMPIRICAL INSIGHTS
(RECENT INTERNATIONAL SECURITY CRISES-CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK AND EMPIRICAL INSIGHTS)
- Author(s):Mirela ATANASIU
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Security and defense
- Page Range:69-78
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:defining international security crisis; security system characteristics; recent security crises typology; polycrisis; overlapped crises.
- Summary/Abstract:The international system possesses a series of interconnected characteristics (scale, dynamism, complexity, informatization, uncertainty, hybridization) shaped by developments such as theadvancement of new technologies, globalization, geopolitical competition between actors, multilateralism, the diversification of actors on the international scene, economic instability, thehybridization of conflicts, exacerbation of social polarization and extremism, etc. These characteristics translate into both generating factors of international security crises and extensors of the typology of current international crises. International security crises do not have a unanimously accepted definition in the specialized literature. Therefore, the present paper aims to develop the knowledge of this concept by identifying their recent characteristics, which, in conjunction with generating factors found in the specialized literature, will be used to substantiate a definition of international security crises and to empirically identify a recent typology of security crises. Moreover, this research sustains the idea of many crises happening in the world at the same time, being triggered by a growing multitude of extinction-level generator factors, leading to a meta-crisis, a crisis of permanent crises, potentially leading to humanity’s collapse. This research supports the fundamental knowledge in the field of international security crisis, as well as the future development of concrete crisis management responses.
BUILDING URBAN SECURITY IN CLIMATE CHANGE CONTEXT
BUILDING URBAN SECURITY IN CLIMATE CHANGE CONTEXT
(BUILDING URBAN SECURITY IN CLIMATE CHANGE CONTEXT)
- Author(s):Sorina-Georgiana RUSU
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Environmental and Energy policy, Security and defense
- Page Range:79-88
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:climate change; security; city; urban planning; civil-military cooperation; resilience.
- Summary/Abstract:Climate change and the degradation of nature are quickly becoming accepted as security challenges that we must address. Both globalization and technological development, complemented by the revolution in military affairs, raised the existing interdependencies and vulnerabilities. Moreover, climate change effects are amplified as urban populations become ever larger. In this context, the planet is like a “patient” with multiple chronic conditions that needs to be treated both globally and locally. The applied treatment has to be effective, fast and safe to return the patient to a state of homeostasis that will secure our future. Cities are interconnected complex systems with extensive and unpredictable feedback processes that operate at multiple scales and time frames. At urban level, there is the crucial necessity in anticipating and coping with climate challenges and also with war. Thus, in this paper we will also address cities as part of the cause and part of the solution for recent security challenges.
MOTIVES, MECHANISMS AND MAP OF FAR-RIGHT RADICALISATION IN EUROPE. MYTHS AND SOCIOLOGICAL CONFIRMATIONS
MOTIVES, MECHANISMS AND MAP OF FAR-RIGHT RADICALISATION IN EUROPE.
MYTHS AND SOCIOLOGICAL CONFIRMATIONS
(MOTIVES, MECHANISMS AND MAP OF FAR-RIGHT RADICALISATION IN EUROPE. MYTHS AND SOCIOLOGICAL CONFIRMATIONS)
- Author(s):Iulian CHIFU, Cosmin GRIGORE
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Social Sciences, Sociology, Security and defense, Nationalism Studies, Politics and Identity
- Page Range:91-102
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:populism; political extremism; radicalisation; anti-system; illiberalism.
- Summary/Abstract:There is a full resurgence of populist, nationalist, right-wing extremist parties at the forefront of European and world politics. These are not mere labels, and the differences between the various approaches within this political family are crucial. We have reviewed the different components of ideologies in the radical right space and the links with populism, conservatism, nationalism, anti-system or anti-elite, globalist, neo-liberalism approaches, including parliamentary representation and democratic governance, making a mirror of radicalization. We have also delved into the causes of the historical emergence and proliferation of these trends, and have looked at sociological studies that reveal the qualitative content and characteristics of the favourite targets of these trends. The study shows that the dominant criteria are technology, algorithms and messageamplifiers as well as the lack of responsibility, and frustration that bring these trends to the fore, andnot necessarily the obvious quantitative indicators such as investment in and level of education, economic development, or qualitative ones such as indiscriminate access to opinions in the guise ofinformation and lack of critical thinking.
TRUMP’S SECOND TERM AND U.S. – CHINA RIVALRY: GEOPOLITICAL IMPLICATIONS
TRUMP’S SECOND TERM AND U.S. – CHINA RIVALRY: GEOPOLITICAL IMPLICATIONS
(TRUMP’S SECOND TERM AND U.S. – CHINA RIVALRY: GEOPOLITICAL IMPLICATIONS)
- Author(s):Mădălin ENESCU, Ana-Maria FLOREA
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, International relations/trade, Geopolitics
- Page Range:103-113
- No. of Pages:11
- Keywords:economic decoupling; Thucydides Trap; U.S.-China strategic rivalry; Arctic governance; transatlantic relationship.
- Summary/Abstract:In the current context, the Thucydides Trap could become a significant factor in the U.S. diplomacy toward China. Moreover, trade tensions and the technological war may escalate into a new form of geopolitical competition, particularly in light of Donald Trump’s announcement concerning the possible annexation of Greenland and control over the Panama Canal. The purpose of this paper is to explore how the annexation of Greenland and the Panama Canal could shape a new geopolitical competition between the U.S. and China. This evolving dynamic heightens the risk of conflict between the two countries, potentially surpassing the tensions witnessed during the final years of Trump’s previous administration. The analysis is conducted in a descriptive manner, making use of various qualitative research methods.
RUSSIA: A TERRORIST STATE AND SPONSOR OF TERRORISM
RUSSIA: A TERRORIST STATE AND SPONSOR OF TERRORISM
(RUSSIA: A TERRORIST STATE AND SPONSOR OF TERRORISM)
- Author(s):Iulian-Constantin MĂNĂILESCU
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Military policy, Peace and Conflict Studies
- Page Range:114-125
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:terrorism; security; Hezbollah; Hamas, crime; terrorist groups; Russia.
- Summary/Abstract:This paper explores Russia’s role in international terrorism, highlighting its involvement in political terrorism through the calculated elimination of political adversaries and former intelligence agents. The Kremlin has employed tactics such as planned assassinations, using highly toxic substances like polonium-210 and Novichok, while leveraging its intelligence agencies to carry out these covert operations. This analysis shows how these actions align with Russia’s broader strategy of transnational repression, which the Russian government justifies as part of its“political warfare” against perceived enemies. The paper also delves into Russia’s relations with extremist groups in the Middle East, specifically Hezbollah and Hamas. These relationships reflect a calculated strategy of fostering indirect support for terrorism, thus contributing to the perpetuation of violence and instability in the region. By supporting these organizations, Russia enhances its geopolitical influence, particularly in opposition to Western powers, while promoting violent ideologies and fostering conflicts that destabilize the Middle East. In addition, Russia’s dual approach of maintaining ties with both Israel and groups like Hamas reveals the contradictory nature of its foreign policy. While aiming to expand its influence in the region, Russia’s actions indirectly support extremist groups, posing a significant risk to regional peace and exacerbating global security challenges. Ultimately, this paper argues that Russia’s actions are consistent with the characteristics of a terrorist state, as they perpetuate terrorism, political violence, and instability.
THE RUSSIAN-UKRAINIAN WAR AND ITS GEOPOLITICAL IMPLICATIONS
THE RUSSIAN-UKRAINIAN WAR AND ITS GEOPOLITICAL IMPLICATIONS
(THE RUSSIAN-UKRAINIAN WAR AND ITS GEOPOLITICAL IMPLICATIONS)
- Author(s):Eugen SITEANU, Iulian TOADER
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, History, Special Historiographies:, Geopolitics, Peace and Conflict Studies, Russian war against Ukraine
- Page Range:126-134
- No. of Pages:9
- Keywords:war; geopolitical phenomenon; Russian Federation; Ukraine; international relations; international environment.
- Summary/Abstract:In order to correctly perceive the causes and determinations of the Russian-Ukrainian war, we will make a brief presentation of the current geopolitical phenomenon. This will help us understand how the Russian Federation, as an actor in the system of international relations, has imposed its interests in its geographical area of interest. The place of an actor such as Russia in the power equation and especially its position in relations with other actors such as Ukraine, the USA, NATO, the EU, China, Iran, North Korea, etc., defines its geopolitical place and role. In the international security environment, there have been transformations in various political, economicand diplomatic fields, in political-military systems and in the very nature of wars that also require a change in the content of the object of geopolitical studies. However, the object of geopolitics’ study is understood as that area of international relations established between actors (state and non-state) of the international environment characterized by the competition of power and dispute of interests. The Russian Federation is trying to establish itself as a regional or even global power towards its neighbors and towards the EU, the USA, China, etc
NARRATIVES IN CZECH SOCIETY ON THE WAR IN UKRAINE
NARRATIVES IN CZECH SOCIETY ON THE WAR IN UKRAINE
(NARRATIVES IN CZECH SOCIETY ON THE WAR IN UKRAINE)
- Author(s):Libor FRANK
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Social Sciences, Communication studies, Politics and Identity, Peace and Conflict Studies, Fake News - Disinformation
- Page Range:135-143
- No. of Pages:9
- Keywords:Pro-Russian narratives in the Czech Republic; public perception of the war in Ukraine; hybrid threats to national and societal security.
- Summary/Abstract:The war in Ukraine, escalating into a full-scale Russian invasion in February 2022, profoundly affects European and global security and shapes public opinion in affected countries, including the Czech Republic. This paper examines the impact of Russian disinformation campaigns on public perception in Czech society, where various narratives influencing attitudes have been circulating since the beginning of the conflict. Some originate domestically; others reflect externally driven disinformation aimed at eroding trust in official institutions and weakening national support for Ukraine. The paper presents evaluations based on quoted references concerning the impact of disinformation narratives on public discourse and the national security of the Czech Republic. The findings highlight risks posed by foreign information influence, underscore the role of media and civil society in countering disinformation, and emphasise the necessity of coherent and effective strategic communication. Building societal resilience through media literacy and critical thinking is essential for mitigating the impact of disinformation and sustaining democratic stability in the face of ongoing geopolitical challenges, particularly by reinforcing public trust in both national and Euro-Atlantic democratic institutions.
THE THIRD AND THE FOURTH DEPARTMENTS OF THE PEOPLE’S LIBERATION ARMY AND CYBER THREATS
THE THIRD AND THE FOURTH DEPARTMENTS OF THE PEOPLE’S LIBERATION ARMY AND CYBER THREATS
(THE THIRD AND THE FOURTH DEPARTMENTS OF THE PEOPLE’S LIBERATION ARMY AND CYBER THREATS)
- Author(s):Alida Monica Doriana BARBU
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Security and defense, Politics of History/Memory
- Page Range:147-157
- No. of Pages:11
- Keywords:Chinese military espionage; Chinese cyber warfare; 3rd and 4th Departments of People’s Liberation Army; INEW (Integrated Network Electronic Warfare); Meta War; China-Romania relations.
- Summary/Abstract:The Chinese Communist Party and the People’s Liberation Army have been interested in war and electronic espionage since the third decade of the last century, when DengXiaoping was establishing technical units in military bases in southern China. The purpose of this study is to determine which strategies are being used by The People’s Republic of China to gain an advantage over other states and how effective they are, as well as the manner in which they are perceived by the USA, EU and Romania. The current paper aims to provide an understanding of the way in which the People’s Liberation Army conducts information, psychological, electronic, cyberand meta warfare to help a competing China to access and preserve power. The development of specialized literature on China’s hostile capabilities has the effect of increasing security culture among the Euro-Atlantic and Romanian public and possibly deterring China. In order to achieve its purpose, the following methodology was used: reviewing specialized literature, qualitative research,and testing Charles Tilly’s theory - war made the state and the state made war ̶ because state institutions and war preparation are mutually reinforced (bellum est pater omnium).
CHALLENGES AT NATIONAL LEVEL REGARDING ENHANCED MILITARY MOBILITY CAPACITY IN THE FRAMEWORK OF IMPLEMENTING THE MULTI-DOMAIN OPERATIONS CONCEPT
CHALLENGES AT NATIONAL LEVEL REGARDING ENHANCED MILITARY MOBILITY CAPACITY IN THE FRAMEWORK OF IMPLEMENTING THE MULTI-DOMAIN OPERATIONS CONCEPT
(CHALLENGES AT NATIONAL LEVEL REGARDING ENHANCED MILITARY MOBILITY CAPACITY IN THE FRAMEWORK OF IMPLEMENTING THE MULTI-DOMAIN OPERATIONS CONCEPT)
- Author(s):Ionela Cătălina MANOLACHE
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Security and defense, Military policy
- Page Range:158-169
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:military mobility; multi-domain operations; civil-military cooperation; operational domains; intergovernmental approach.
- Summary/Abstract:The way conflicts are handled has changed significantly today compared to the image we have of them from a century ago, for example. We can already state that some concepts, such as “joint”, have been replaced, and multi-domain operations seem to be a more effective alternative and a much better adapted response to current threats. However, the combat force continues to play an essential role in military actions, and their deployment in key locations in the area of operations remains a challenge that requires quick responses from both military and civilian leaders. Considering the current security situation, this paper aims to address the topic of military mobility from the perspective of multi-domain operations’ implementation at the NATO level and to identify support needs at the national level for optimizing the force deployment process.
EVOLUTION OF THE STRATEGIC ROCKET FORCES OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION IN THE POST-COLD WAR ERA
EVOLUTION OF THE STRATEGIC ROCKET FORCES OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION IN THE POST-COLD WAR ERA
(EVOLUTION OF THE STRATEGIC ROCKET FORCES OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION IN THE POST-COLD WAR ERA)
- Author(s):Mario MARINOV
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Military policy, Politics of History/Memory
- Page Range:170-183
- No. of Pages:14
- Keywords:Russia; RVSN; nuclear deterrence; intercontinental missiles.
- Summary/Abstract:Since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the Russian Federation has placed great effort and resources in maintaining the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of its strategic nuclear forces. The land-based component in particular, the RVSN, encompasses the larger part of Russia’s strategic nuclear arsenal and as such warrants examination and assessment against the backdrop of dynamic and adversarial relations in the international system of security relations, particularly between the major nuclear powers. The following paper will examine the transformative processes within Russia’s Strategic Rocket Forces over the past three decades, with the principal objective to deconstruct the main policy directions, vectors of technical development and present state and structure of formations. Principal political decisions in the examined time-frame are tied with set goals encompassing Russian modernisation efforts of the land-based strategic nuclear arm, with the historical processes in turn tied to an evaluation of present-day capabilities in both technical terms and observations on the organisational structure of the RVSN as the main strategic nuclear deterrent within Russia’s broader nuclear capabilities.
PRECISION GLIDE MUNITIONS. METHODS FOR EFFECTIVE COUNTERACTION BASED ON THE CONFLICT IN UKRAINE
PRECISION GLIDE MUNITIONS. METHODS FOR EFFECTIVE COUNTERACTION BASED ON THE CONFLICT IN UKRAINE
(PRECISION GLIDE MUNITIONS. METHODS FOR EFFECTIVE COUNTERACTION BASED ON THE CONFLICT IN UKRAINE)
- Author(s):Mario MARINOV
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Security and defense, Military policy, Peace and Conflict Studies
- Page Range:184-195
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:glide munitions; glide bombs; counteraction; countermeasures; air defence; Ukraine.
- Summary/Abstract:The evolution of the modern battlefield is defined by the rapid manifestation of transformative processes in weapons systems deployment, which alter past warfighting capabilities and concepts. One such weapons system, massively deployed in the conflict in Ukraine, is that of the precision glide munitions in its most modern iterations, which has had a profound impact on conventional military operation. The following paper examines the role of precision glide munitions in modern warfare, with a focus on their tactical and operational impact during the conflict in Ukraine. Through an analysis of their capabilities, operational deployment, and effectiveness, the study identifies counteraction methods, including electronic warfare, air defence adaptations, and emerging technologies. The paper centres on a mixed-methods approach, structured around collection, analysis and deconstruction of open-source intelligence, technical analysis of munition characteristics, and synthesis of third-party expert assessments. The focus on open-source intelligence and third-party analyses, alongside the rapid evolutionary patterns within the examined weapons system type, predispose potential biases, whose mitigation is sought through a robust, multifaceted and objective examination of source materials. The overarching findings underscore the necessity for conventional forces to adapt to evolving threats through integrated defensive systems and doctrinal innovation.
PAGER EXPLOSIONS IN LEBANON – IMPACT ON REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL SECURITY
PAGER EXPLOSIONS IN LEBANON – IMPACT ON REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL SECURITY
(PAGER EXPLOSIONS IN LEBANON – IMPACT ON REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL SECURITY)
- Author(s):Lyubosvet STOEV, Zhivo PETROV
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Security and defense, Military policy
- Page Range:196-201
- No. of Pages:6
- Keywords:Israel–Hezbollah conflict; supply chain infiltration; supply chain security; international reactions; Electronic Warfare; Psychological Operations; Cybersecurity; Middle East conflict.
- Summary/Abstract:The article relates to the interlude of 2024 Israel-Hezbollah war, and focuses onto the cyberattack against pagers and other electronic devices in Lebanon and Syria on September 17and 18, 2024. A brief chronology of events is presented, followed by a review of pager technology for one-way communication. Features of the explosive substance used were examined and a hypothesis was developed for the method of attack. Finally, the consequences of the attack are analyzed as the both sides marched towards a full-scale war.
DRONES – A THREAT TO SECURITY?
DRONES – A THREAT TO SECURITY?
(DRONES – A THREAT TO SECURITY?)
- Author(s):Ana-Raluca STAN
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Security and defense, Military policy
- Page Range:202-213
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:drones impact on security; drones as weapons; current security challenges; technology development; modern warfare; military innovation; SWOT analysis on drones.
- Summary/Abstract:Drones present both opportunities and challenges, offering significant benefits in various sectors (military, law enforcement and public safety, surveillance, media, agriculture, delivery and logistics services, etc.), and also posing threats that need to be addressed. Harnessing their benefits while minimising their potential threats can present an international security issue. It is important to focus our attention on the potential security risks they pose and implement regulations and countermeasures to mitigate these threats. Their overall impact on international security will depend on how they are managed, regulated, and controlled in the coming years. This paper addresses the contentious issue of employing drones and examine their potential negative effects on international security using a qualitative research method, mainly focusing on UAVs.
WEAPONIZATION OF RELIGION AS ONE OF THE MAIN HYBRID INSTRUMENTS DIRECTED AGAINST ROMANIANS IN THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA, UKRAINE AND ROMANIA
WEAPONIZATION OF RELIGION AS ONE OF THE MAIN HYBRID INSTRUMENTS DIRECTED AGAINST ROMANIANS IN THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA, UKRAINE AND ROMANIA
(WEAPONIZATION OF RELIGION AS ONE OF THE MAIN HYBRID INSTRUMENTS DIRECTED AGAINST ROMANIANS IN THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA, UKRAINE AND ROMANIA)
- Author(s):Matei BLĂNARU
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Social Sciences, Communication studies, Theology and Religion, Security and defense, Sociology of Religion, Hybrid Warfare
- Page Range:214-232
- No. of Pages:18
- Keywords:weaponization of religion; hybrid threat; geopolitics; Romanians’ identity; Ukraine; the Republic of Moldova.
- Summary/Abstract:Religion has long been one of the key hybrid instruments used in geopolitics across the globe, for both defensive and offensive purposes. Thus, failing to recognize the importance of religion in national defense strategies, as an important factor for the society, represents a serious mistake. Yet, unfortunately, decision makers in Romania have failed to acknowledge and properly address this issue for a long time. The scope of this paper is not to investigate the reasons behind thisaspect, but to highlight the importance of religion for Romanians in Romania, in Ukraine and in theRepublic of Moldova, and to highlight the fact that by not addressing properly and responsibly theexpectations and concerns of Romanians by the Romanian decision makers regarding religious rightsand identity paves the way for weaponization of religion mainly by the Russian Federation, but alsoby Ukraine.The weaponization of religion against the interests of the Romanian people has a long history, mainly coming from the USSR and the Russian Federation. This weaponization, together with recent internal political developments in Romania, should highlight the importance of properly and responsibly addressing and cultivating the religious rights and identity of Romanians in Romania, Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova. Failing to do so will mean that adverse narratives and policies will weaponize religion against the stability, the security and the interests of the Romanian state and people, just as it has happened throughout history.
