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Description

This commentary examines emerging concepts in cognitive warfare, the use of information, perception shaping, and psychological influence as instruments of strategic competition. It also highlights insights from the 2026 NATO Chief Scientist Report. Dr. Giordano explains that cognitive effects extend traditional information operations by targeting how people think, make decisions, and act in complex environments. Drawing from NATO analysis, he argues that military organizations must integrate cognitive considerations into doctrine, planning, and training to enhance resilience and competitive advantage. Improved operational frameworks, interdisciplinary research, and ethical governance could help allied forces recognize, anticipate, and counter cognitive threats while preserving human agency and alliance cohesion.

Document Type

Article

Topic(s)

Information Operations, Strategic Competition, National Security

Region(s)

United States

Publication Date

1-6-2026

Keywords

cognitive warfare, NATO Chief Scientist Report, decision-making effects, influence operations, psychological operations, information operations, strategic competition, doctrine integration, allied resilience, ethical governance, human cognition, military operations

Cognitive Warfare 2026: NATO’s Chief Scientist Report as Sentinel Call for Operational Readiness

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