Deliberately spread misinformation, cyberattacks on federal agencies and hospitals, and drones flying over airports: so-called hybrid attacks come in various forms and have become a serious security concern for Western democracies – even though they operate without direct violence or conventional weapons.
These issues were at the heart of the latest HADLEY'S Evening Salon, a popular event series held at HADLEY'S bar near the IFSH headquarters in Hamburg-Eimsbüttel. In this informal setting, IFSH researchers regularly provide insights into their work and engage in lively discussions with guests on current political and security issues.
Lieutenant Colonel (GS) Thilo Geiger, researcher at IFSH, explained what defines hybrid warfare, how it differs from conventional military operations, and why it can threaten societal stability and security even without the use of physical force.
“Violence in hybrid warfare should be understood in abstract terms”, explained Geiger. “The objective is the same as in traditional warfare: to render the enemy defenceless and weaken them. Cyber-attacks and disinformation are particularly effective in environments where people feel discontented, distance themselves from the mainstream society, and begin to question the state's authority to maintain order.”
According to the military expert, Germany – of all countries – has increasingly become the target of Russian hybrid attacks. This is partly because the Federal Republic serves as a strategically important hub within NATO. He further explained that although Germany and Europe are fundamentally well equipped to uncover hybrid attacks, implementing proactive countermeasures against Russia remains difficult. There are significant legal hurdles to this in a democratic constitutional state. Autocracies such as Russia find it easier to carry out cyber-attacks.
The audience asked numerous questions during the follow-up discussion. In particular, Russia’s disruptive drone activity at European airports such as in Munich and Copenhagen, which led to prolonged flight cancellations, raised concern among the audience. Is this just the beginning? What else might the West have to prepare for? Others, however, called for de-escalation in light of the tense security situation and urged a thoughtful and measured response to Russia provocation.
