Nine Principles of War

9 Principles which Govern All Tactical Operations Originally published in 1912 They are present in every tactical situation whether we recognize them or not Equivalent of learning the alphabet for reading, or the multiplication tables for mathematics Are part of a much larger body of doctrine

M aneuver O bjective O ffense S implicity E conomy of Force Nine Principles of War M ass U nity of Command S urprise S ecurity

Movement of personnel and support to gain an advantage Requires flexibility and mobility ♦ Flexibility in thought and mind ♦ Mobility is required to provide prompt actions and reactions Maneuver MOOSEMUSSMOOSEMUSS 10

Objective Every mission must be directed towards a precisely defined and clearly described objective. Often called the “master” or “controlling” principle because it is the basis from which all plans are formed. bjective MOOSEMUSSMOOSEMUSS 9

Offensive action is necessary to achieve decisive results and attain final success. Defense is not a principle! Every tactical operation carries the implied objective of imposing the will of the commander. Offense MOOSEMUSSMOOSEMUSS 8

A simple direct plan will usually succeed. Occam’s Razor — “The simplest solution is usually the right one.” The best plan can not be implemented if it can not be understood! Simplicity MOOSEMUSSMOOSEMUSS 7

This principle requires skillful and prudent of use of available forces with a minimum of power at other than the decisive time and place. Since no commander has unlimited resources, some conservation will always be necessary. Economy of Force MOOSEMUSSMOOSEMUSS 6

MOOSEMUSSMOOSEMUSS The concentration of superior power at the point and time of decision. Mass is the corollary of economy of force. Mass 5

In any tactical situation, there is a point at which a final decision must be made. That decision must be made by a single authority! Nothing is so important in war as an undivided command! ~ Napoleon Unity of Command MOOSEMUSSMOOSEMUSS 4

Surprise is achieved by “striking” at an unanticipated time or place, or in an unexpected manner. Surprise can attain results beyond all proportion of the efforts to attain it. Surprise can be the key element in conflicts! Surprise MOOSEMUSSMOOSEMUSS 3

Security is essential to the preservation of power. Plans known are plans defeated! Security enhances freedom of action by reducing friendly vulnerability to hostile acts, influence or surprise. Security MOOSEMUSSMOOSEMUSS 2

Questions?