"perception management"

interesting Recognising its vulnerability to information and media flows, the DoD has identified the information domain as its new 'asymmetric flank'. In a series of recent internal studies, the Pentagon has made it a priority to become more adept at influencing perceptions of a military campaign, both in the theatre of conflict itself and in the wider viewing audience. Against this background, the investigation into the incident at Haditha takes on an added importance. As well as determining whether or not an atrocity was committed, the DoD is seeking to communicate the message that such incidents are neither typical of nor intrinsic to US counter-insurgency operations in Iraq.