The 2012 defense funding bill includes provisions for the Secretary of Defense to initiate offensive cyber-attacks at the direction of the President.  Quite frankly I commend this public endorsement.  If you think it hasn't already happened you're living under a pretty dark rock.  Anything that gives us an advantage over our enemies who have publicly stated their desire to destroy America and it's way of life is welcomed.  Anything that helps keep our soldiers, airmen and sailors out of harm's way a little longer is great too.

The one thing we must not ignore though is that a cyber-attack carried out by the U.S. against one of our adversaries may result in a response most Americans won't be prepared for.  Typically the rules of engagement for U.S. troops is one of equal and proportionate response.  In other words, you don't answer small arms fire with a nuke.  We are used to this from our enemies as well.  However, if our adversaries cannot carry out sophisticated cyber-attacks in response to our cyber initiatives their only recourse is a traditional military response.

We live in the dawn of a new age.  The military has used information warfare for decades.  Big companies battle with it as well.  The front lines are expanding daily.  Are we ready?  I certainly hope so.