Strategic adaptations for hybrid warfare: Enhancing Indonesian national defence in the digital ERA

Abstract

This study aims to explore the evolving concept of hybrid warfare and propose strategic adaptations for national defense in the digital era, with a focus on Indonesia's defense mechanisms. A systematic literature review methodology was employed, analyzing 45 peer-reviewed sources to identify key adaptation domains in defense strategy. The review adheres to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to ensure methodological rigor and transparency. The study identifies four essential domains for adaptation in national defense: technological integration, institutional resilience, cross-sector collaboration, and strategic policy evolution. Effective defense against hybrid warfare requires a multidimensional approach that integrates cybersecurity, information warfare, and civilian-military cooperation. The study proposes an integrated defense framework that emphasizes adaptability, resilience, and inter-agency collaboration, which are essential for countering hybrid threats in the digital age. The findings underscore the need for a comprehensive, proactive defense strategy that transcends traditional military boundaries. This research offers a structured taxonomy for understanding hybrid warfare and suggests strategic reforms for national defense establishments, with implications for policy-making, capability development, and international cooperation. Practitioners and policymakers can utilize this framework to inform efforts aimed at enhancing resilience against hybrid threats, particularly in countries facing complex geopolitical challenges, such as Indonesia.