Asymmetric Warfare

Asymmetric warfare is “leveraging inferior tactical or operational

strength against the vulnerabilities of a superior opponent to achieve disproportionate effect with the

aim of undermining the opponent’s will in order to achieve

the asymmetric actor’s strategic objectives.”

Conventional deterrent theory

military superiority of a relatively stronger power, coupled with a credible retaliatory threat, will prevent attack by challengers

Variables

• the politico-military strategy

• the possession of offensive weapon systems

• great power defensive support

• changing domestic power structure

• time pressure

Politico-military strategy in asymmetric war initiation

1. attrition/maneuver

2. blitzkrieg (lightning strike)

3. limited aims/fait accompli

Offensive weapons, limited capability and asymmetric war initiation

Alliance support and war calculations

Domestic structure and asymmetric war initiation

Time pressure