The Evolution of the Operational Level of Warfare
Abstract
The concept of the Operational Level of War has gained currency in the U.S. military during the past ten years. Since the era of Napoleon, however, The Operational Level of Warfare has been identifiable as a distinct level in the spectrum of warfare, bridging the continuum from tactics to strategy. This paper reviews the definition of the Operational Level of Warfare and the characteristics which identify that level. it next proceeds to examine the evolution of the identifying characteristics of the Operational Level during the nineteenth century. In reviewing that evolution in terms of time and space and command, the elements of mass armies, conscription, logistics, and the impact of technology are reviewed. The Napoleonic wars, the American Civil War, the wars of German Unification and the Russo-Japanese War provide case studies for this review.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 05, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA253148
Entities
People
- Robert E. Smith
Organizations
- Naval War College