A hybrid threat is a combination of regular forces, irregular forces, and criminal elements. Hybrid threats may be nation-state actors such as conventional core state armies or non-state actors such as terrorist organizations. These forces and organizations may work together, either purposefully or not, to achieve mutually beneficial effects on the battlefield. Defeating a hybrid threat requires adaptiveness, and the ability to react quickly. Hybrid threats are highly adaptive adversaries and are two or more of the following key components: military force; nation-state paramilitary force; insurgent groups; guerilla units; criminal organizations. Hybrid threats are generally categorized as either nation-state actors or non-state actors.
