The Dangerous Cyber Arena

The use of malicious software doesn't pack the same kind of punch as an artillery piece, guided-missile destroyer or long-distance bomber. Yet, in modern encounters, computer hackers can exploit vulnerabilities of enemies, rip off invaluable information and sabotage key strengths.

Some commanders have even likened the potential results of cyber attacks to those caused by nuclear weapons. In the case of Iran, its alleged nuclear program has become the target of man-made computer...