Background and Objective: Cognitive warfare is emerging as a critical domain in future conflicts. With rapid advancements in aerospace technologies, intelligent drones, and precision-guided munitions, adversaries increasingly employ cognitive warfare tactics to manipulate decision-making processes and degrade air defense systems. This study aims to develop effective military strategies for the Iranian Air Defense Force to counter cognitive warfare threats.
Methodology: This applied research employed a sequential mixed-methods design. In the qualitative phase, a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) was conducted through semi-structured interviews with purposefully selected air defense experts (based on accessibility, relevant publications, and willingness to participate). Data were thematically analyzed using MAXQDA software. In the quantitative phase, strategic priorities were derived from the SWOT matrix and validated via a questionnaire administered to a randomly selected sample of air defense experts.
Findings :The Internal-External (IE) matrix positioned the Iranian Air Defense Force in the defensive quadrant. The External Factor Evaluation (EFE) matrix yielded a total weighted score of 2.388 (below the benchmark of 2.5), indicating limited ability to capitalize on opportunities and mitigate external threats. The Internal Factor Evaluation (IFE) similarly reflected moderate internal capabilities.
Conclusion: The Iranian Air Defense Force currently adopts a defensive strategic posture against cognitive warfare. Given its proximity to the matrix center, transition to an offensive posture is both necessary and feasible. Priority strategies should focus on enhancing resilience to cognitive manipulation, developing proactive information/cognitive operations, and integrating human–machine decision systems to shift from reactive defense to strategic cognitive dominance.