The U.S. Naval Institute Information Warfare Essay Contest is an annual writing competition sponsored by the U.S. Naval Institute to encourage original and innovative thinking on the topic of information warfare. The contest is open to all members of the military, civilian employees of the Department of Defense, and contractors who support the Department of Defense.
The contest seeks essays that explore the challenges and opportunities presented by the information age, and how the U.S. Navy and its partners can best use information warfare to support national security objectives. Topics can range from technical innovations to strategic concepts, and can include areas such as cyber warfare, electronic warfare, and information operations.
Essays must be original, unpublished works of no more than 3,000 words, and must be submitted by a specified deadline. A panel of judges evaluates the essays based on the quality of the research, analysis, and writing, as well as the originality and relevance of the ideas presented.
The top three winners receive cash prizes and have their essays published in the U.S. Naval Institute’s professional journal, Proceedings. The contest provides an opportunity for members of the military community to contribute to the dialogue on information warfare and to advance their professional development.