In an assessment of modern warfare tactics, a Chinese cybersecurity company has analysed the possible role of cyberattacks in a recent US military operation targeting Venezuela.
According to reports from US media, the United States recently carried out a military strike on Venezuela and detained Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro along with his wife. A report released on Tuesday by Chinese cybersecurity firm Antiy said the operation likely began with cyberwarfare designed to trigger large-scale power outages and create favourable conditions for follow-up military actions.
Antiy stated that cyberattacks may have been used to disrupt electricity supplies in Caracas, effectively “opening operational channels” for later airstrikes and special operations. US media reports have suggested that power cuts in the Venezuelan capital coincided with the strikes, and it was also reported that US Cyber Command took part in the operation.
According to Antiy’s analysis, “the blackout in Caracas was largely intended to provide more covert support for the low-altitude entry and operations of [the US] helicopter fleet, requiring precision, certainty, and controllability.” The report added that physical attacks on power infrastructure were less likely, while cyberattacks offered a more controlled way to cause outages. “It cannot be ruled out that the US attempted to disable its opponent’s air defense weapon systems through cyberattacks during the operation,” the report said.
The company outlined several possible cyber tactics, including breaching critical infrastructure and key information systems to obtain internal documents and intelligence. Other methods could include hacking mobile phones or computers of key personnel to access data, turning them into surveillance tools, infiltrating security devices and smart systems in important buildings, and gaining long-term control over infrastructure to prepare for future operations.
Li Baisong, deputy director of Antiy’s technical committee, said it is widely known that the US carries out extensive intrusions against many countries, including its allies. He described the Venezuela operation as another example of this approach.
Li also noted that advances in military technology have shifted modern warfare toward information-based and intelligent operations, where cyberspace attacks can weaken or disable opposing weapon systems. He added that countries should strengthen cybersecurity awareness and build strong defence systems. “On one hand, every organization and enterprise should take on the primary responsibility for the security planning, construction, and operation of their information systems. On the other hand, and more importantly, it is essential to enhance the capability for systematic confrontation and comprehensive national defense,” he said.
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