Abstract
<jats:p>In order to comprehensively study the nature of modern wars and armed conflicts, predict future wars, effectively carry out military construction and the development of the Armed Forces, and, in particular, more effectively organize the work of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, it is important to comprehensively and deeply study and understand the modern capabilities and means of conducting information warfare, which is a characteristic feature of modern wars, in order to effectively counter the information warfare waged by the enemy: Information warfare is becoming increasingly complex and multi-layered in the context of globalization and the rapid development of digital technologies. It is seen as one of the key instruments of political, economic, and military pressure aimed at changing public consciousness, undermining social stability, and reducing the defense potential of the state. The article examines the impact of information warfare on two priority target groups: the civilian population and the armed forces personnel. Typical tools for influencing the civilian population include mass information dumping, manipulation on social networks, the spread of fake news, and the creation of an atmosphere of distrust toward official institutions. Such actions can cause distrust of the state's military and political leadership, uncertainty about security, fear, and social fragmentation. Information attacks on the Armed Forces are aimed at undermining the morale and psychological state of military personnel and reducing discipline. The article presented the components of information warfare, its impact on national security and public institutions, as well as strategies for state and public counteraction, with a focus on the main areas of counteraction, including the development of a national information security system, and improving the media literacy of citizens and military personnel. It emphasizes that successful defense is only possible with a comprehensive and coordinated approach that combines the efforts of the state, the professional community, and civil society.</jats:p>