ABSTRACT
This chapter explains a theoretical overview of how cyberspace is used by states in international relations. It also explores how cyberspace is a tool in deterrence, compellence and coercive diplomacy, as well as the nature of cyberpower, crisis management, and the use of cyberpower in cross-domain deterrence. The chapter also examines the implications of cyber operations for the cross-Strait relationship that is summarizing the cross-Strait environment and examining the development of cyber capabilities in China and Taiwan. Cyberpower can be 'hard' because it can create real military and economic effects. Cyberpower is only useful against highly networked states and only to a limited degree. Another important part of cyberpower and cross-Strait security is China's rapid military modernization. Chinese writings on information warfare also frequently describe it as an asymmetric strategy. Taiwan faces a daunting, although focused, security challenge in China. One crucial component of China's military buildup is the development of theories and capabilities in information warfare and cyberwar.
