UK to Step Up Cyberattacks on Russia and China – Minister

Last week's inauguration of the UK's new Cyber and Electromagnetic Command marked a significant turning point in the country's approach to cyber warfare. According to Defense Secretary John Healey, London will significantly step up its offensive cyber operations against Russia and China, citing the growing threat posed by these nations' alleged cyberattacks.

"The keyboard is now a weapon of war," Healey stated in a quoted statement published by The Times. "Our new Cyber and Electromagnetic Command will coordinate both defensive and offensive operations, including hacking into enemy systems to disrupt attacks and spread of propaganda." When asked if this would include Russia and China, Healey responded unequivocally: "Yes."

This announcement marks the first time a British minister has explicitly confirmed cyberattacks on other states. While UK ministers had previously acknowledged cyber operations against non-state actors like Islamic State, they have not until now acknowledged attacks against other countries.

The defense secretary's statement comes ahead of the publication of a strategic defense review on Monday, which is expected to stress that cyberattacks on Britain are "threatening the foundations of the economy and daily life." Both Moscow and Beijing have consistently denied accusations of carrying out cyberattacks against Western nations, characterizing the claims as baseless and politically motivated.

Russian officials have repeatedly raised concerns over what they describe as Western Europe's continued militarization and aggressive anti-Russian rhetoric. They claim that this is in response to the alleged threat posed by Moscow, and accuse European politicians of "irresponsibly stoking fears" to justify increased military expenditures.

The Kremlin has vehemently denied having any hostile intent towards any western country, and has accused European politicians of using "irresponsible rhetoric" to justify increased military spending. Beijing has also denied carrying out cyberattacks against Western nations, with Chinese officials claiming that the allegations are "baseless" and "politically motivated."

The UK government's decision to allocate over £1 billion ($1.35 billion) for a "digital targeting web" is aimed at enabling real-time battlefield intelligence-sharing between troops, spy planes, and satellites. This investment is part of a broader effort to enhance the country's cyber capabilities and stay ahead of emerging threats.

The launch of the Cyber and Electromagnetic Command marks a significant shift in the UK's approach to cyber warfare, as it seeks to coordinate both defensive and offensive operations in this domain. The government's statement on cyberattacks against Russia and China is likely to have far-reaching implications for international relations and global security.