The ten principles of war are applicable throughout the spectrum of conflict, regardless of the campaign theme. Commanders at all levels, guided by the desired objectives, must consider each principle and strike a balance between the competing demands of the various principles. The ten principles of war are:
The Ten Principles of War.
Selection and Maintenance of the Aim.
Maintenance of Morale.
Offensive Action.
Surprise.
Security.
Concentration of Force.
Economy of Effort
Flexibility.
Cooperation.
Administration.
Selection and Maintenance of the Aim.
Every operation must have a single, attainable and clearly defined aim that remains the focus of the operation and towards which all efforts are directed. The linkage between the levels of war is crucial for each battle; engagements or operations must be planned and executed to accomplish the military objectives established by the commander.
Activities at the lower tactical levels must be planned and conducted in harmony with the intent and operational objectives identified at the higher echelons of command. The aim of any force, therefore, is always determined with a view to furthering the aim of the higher commander. It is thus vital that commanders clearly express their intent in a concise and clear manner.
Maintenance of Morale.
After leadership, morale is the most important element on the moral plane of conflict. It is essential to ensuring cohesion and the will to win. Morale is nurtured through discipline, self-respect, and confidence of the soldier in his commanders and his equipment, and a sense of purpose. Offensive Action.
Only through offensive action can a military force assure the defeat of the adversary. Commanders adopt the defensive only as a temporary expedient and must seek every opportunity to seize and maintain the initiative through offensive action. Initiative means setting