The Degraded Killchain
Modern conflict unfolds in fast-moving, data-driven environments where even small disruptions can have major consequences. The degraded killchain, which occurs when one or more stages of the targeting process break down, poses a serious challenge for military forces operating in contested domains. Understanding how threats, terrain, technology, and the operational environment influence each stage of the killchain is essential for effective planning. While advanced systems and automation can assist, they are only tools. True resilience comes from threat-informed decision-making that enables commanders to anticipate disruption, adapt under pressure, and maintain the initiative in complex battlespaces.
