Representing Strategic Cyber and Information Warfare in Matrix Games

Wargames that examine cyber and information warfare at the strategic level have different design challenges from those of tactical level cyber exercises. It is easier to map computer networks, determine success or failure of specific offensive or defensive actions and maintain some level of anonymity during a tactical level computerized exercise. Our design challenge was to create a game format that allowed participants to conduct open strategic policy options paired with covert cyber and information operations. These covert actions had probabilities of success and attribution by the target. We were constrained by a small control staff, limited time to adjudicate player decisions and a dynamic game format that did not allow for pre-planning and development of scenario injects and outcomes. This paper elaborates on game design challenges, a framework to allow anonymity and attribution into game play and an examination of what worked and what didn't. The views expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not reflect the official policy or position of the National Defense University, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government.