Hybrid Threat Analysis

According to TC 7-100, a hybrid threat is defined as, “the diverse and dynamic combination of regular forces, irregu­lar forces, and/or criminal elements all unified to achieve mutually benefitting effects”. This is an accurate description of the relationship between the ISIS, South China Sea pirates, and the diverse terrorist groups located in Indonesia. Conditions for a merger of bad-intentioned groups in the region backed by an increasing wage gap and a lack of options lead Indonesians into a fearful state.

“Ideologically confused souls” is how an expert at the International Crisis Group described the terrorist groups operating in Indonesia. As the largest Muslim country in the world, Indonesia’s impressionable and poverty-stricken youth present a valuable opportunity for terrorist organizations (Jones, 2015). While many of the recruited individuals convert to the cause through integrated prison networks, there is a growing population of Indonesian’s captivated by ISIS’s proclamation of a Muslim caliphate. ISIS’s popularity and propaganda have influenced native
ISIS has begun conducting operations with pirates in the South China Sea an attempt to broaden operations and establish a legitimate foothold in the region. The move shows intentions that align directly with hybrid threat generation. The combination of criminal groups used in conjunction with a globally significant terror presence is a trademark distinction of hybrid threat according to TC 7-100. ISIS’s potential funding and propaganda will increase beyond it’s current state if it’s is able to expand it’s capabilities throughout the surrounding Indonesia area. The South China Sea services roughly five trillion dollars’ worth of goods through its shipping channels every year. Pirates who occupy the waters pose a significant threat to Indonesia, and the United States’, security when partnered with terrorist groups as recognized as ISIS