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What are the 9 Principles of War?
by D. Power
The Army Field Manual (FM-3) of Military Operations defines the following 9 Principles of War
| Principle |
Explanation |
| 1. Mass
| Concentrate combat power at the decisive place and time |
| 2. Objective |
Direct every military operation towards a clearly defined, decisive, and attainable objective |
| 3. Offensive |
Seize, retain, and exploit the initiative |
| 4. Surprise |
Strike the enemy at a time, at a place, or in a manner for which he is unprepared |
| 5. Economy of force |
Allocate minimum essential combat power to secondary efforts |
| 6. Maneuver |
Place the enemy in a position of disadvantage through the flexible application of combat power |
| 7. Unity of command |
For every objective, ensure unity of effort under one responsible commander |
| 8. Security |
Never permit the enemy to acquire an unexpected advantage |
| 9. Simplicity |
Prepare clear, uncomplicated plans and clear, concise orders to ensure thorough understanding |
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