Strategic cyberwarfare

C-Tier
Journal: Economic Inquiry
Year: 2026
Volume: 64
Issue: 1
Pages: 221-244

Authors (2)

Erik Lillethun (Colgate University) Rishi Sharma (not in RePEc)

Score contribution per author:

0.505 = (α=2.02 / 2 authors) × 0.5x C-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

This paper develops a theoretical model of cyberwarfare between nations, focusing on the factors that determine the severity and outcomes of cyber conflicts. We introduce a two‐country model where nations invest in offensive or defensive cyber capabilities across networked systems. We show that resource expenditure intensifies when players' effective values are similar, which can help explain the rise of cyberwarfare. We explore the implications of network structures, showing how larger attack surfaces worsen outcomes for defenders. Additionally, we investigate the impact of private cyber defence provision, and find that centralized policies may either improve or exacerbate cyber conflict.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:bla:ecinqu:v:64:y:2026:i:1:p:221-244
Journal Field
General
Author Count
2
Added to Database
2026-01-25