Principles of War

The 9 Principles of War

Objective

The military purpose of war is the destruction of the enemy's armed forces and will to fight.

Offensive

Offensive action is the most effective and decisive way to defined common objective. Offensive operations are the means by which a military force seizes and holds the initiative while maintaining freedom of action and achieving decisive results.

Mass

all the elements of combat power where they will have decisive effect on an enemy force in a short period of time is to achieve mass. To mass is to hit the enemy with a closed fist. Mass must also be sustained so the effects have staying power.

Economy of Force

Economy of force is the judicious empioyment and distribution of forces,No force should ever be left without purpose. When the time comes for action, all parts must act.

Manuver

Maneuver is the movement of forces in relation to the enemy to gain positional advantage. Effective maneuver keeps the enemy off balance and protects the force.

Unity of Command

Unity of command means that all the forces are under one responsible commander. It requires a single commander with the requisite authority to direct all forces in pursuit of a unified purpose.

Secuirty

Security enhances freedom of action by reducing vulnerability to hostile acts, influence, or surprise. Security results from the measures taken by a commander to protect his forces.

Suprise

By seeking surprise, forces can achieve success well out of proportion to the effort expended.The enemy need not be taken completely by surprise but only become aware too late to react effectively. Factors to surprise include speed, effective intelligence, deception, application of unexpected combat power, operations security.

Simlicity

war is simple but it can be hard, you just have to be aware of what you are doing in the middle of sneaking upon someone or in the middle of the battle field.