Operações de informação: a nova guerra invisível: o papel das operações de informação e o futuro da doutrina militar brasileira

Abstract

This dissertation aims to reflect on the growing role of Information Operations (OpInfo) in the context of contemporary conflicts and to understand how the Brazilian Armed Forces can enhance their doctrine in light of this new and challenging operational environment. Starting from a historical perspective, the study demonstrates how the manipulation of information has always been present in human conflicts, from tactical deception in antiquity to the sophisticated digital campaigns of modern times. The research seeks to clarify the fundamental concepts surrounding OpInfo by examining the Brazilian Army, Air Force and Navy manuals and analyzing how each branch understands and applies these resources in practice. In parallel, doctrines from countries such as the United States, Russia, China, and organizations like NATO are examined, highlighting how information has become a central instrument in their military strategies. More than a theoretical debate, this work dives into real-world cases, such as the war in Ukraine, the tensions in the South China Sea, and conflicts in the Middle East, to show how informational warfare shapes narratives, influences political decisions, and redefines the concept of sovereignty. Based on these analyses, a set of practical recommendations is proposed for the Brazilian context, such as the creation of specialized structures, the training of qualified professionals, and the development of a national strategy for communication and cognitive defense. The conclusion is clear: in a world where battles are also won with ideas, data, and perceptions, it is essential that Brazil seriously invests in the modernization of its Information Operations doctrine. Only then will it be able to protect its strategic interests and act with prominence in an international scenario increasingly driven by the power of information.