How Can Surprise Be Achieved Today at the Operational Level of War?
Abstract
The primary purpose of this study is to determine how surprise can be achieved today at the operational level of war. Two supporting questions are answered as well. These are: What are the theoretical and historical foundations for the concept of surprise? And specifically, what are the ways, means, and effects (ends) of achieving surprise at the operational level of war? Evidence resulting from the comparative analysis of the theoretical and historical framework, and modern case studies, supports the conclusion that surprise can be achieved today at the operational level of war by attacking at an unexpected time, place, and manner using the means of deception and speed. More specifically, attacks must be timed during a period when the defender is relaxed, in a direction that is inconvenient to the defender, using unexpected weapons and tactics, masking troop buildup through deception and using speed of movement along ground and air routes in order to concentrate attacking forces. Military forces, fighting outnumbered, who desire to achieve decisive victory must use surprise skillfully in order to achieve the operational advantage. Keywords: Theses; Surprise attacks; Military strategy; Military tactics.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 02, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA214196
Entities
People
- James Meredith
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College