Operational level of war

1st Air Division War Room

Operational level of war refers to a middle ground in military strategy that connects the tactical and strategic levels. It deals with the planning and conducting of campaigns, the movement and disposition of forces, and the deception of the enemy, all within the theater of operations to achieve strategic objectives. The concept emerged in the 20th century, particularly in the Soviet Union during the interwar period, as military thinkers sought to bridge the gap between the immediate actions of forces on the battlefield and the broader objectives set by a nation's military and political leadership.

Definition

The operational level of war involves the employment of military forces to achieve strategic goals within a theater of operations. It focuses on how battles and engagements are planned and fought, the movement of troops and logistics, and the use of tactics and strategies to achieve objectives that are defined by the strategic level. The operational art, therefore, requires commanders to have an understanding of strategy and tactics to effectively orchestrate engagements in a manner that leads to the achievement of strategic objectives.

History

The concept of the operational level of war has its roots in the 19th century but was formally developed by Soviet military theorists in the 1920s and 1930s. Figures such as Alexander Svechin and Mikhail Tukhachevsky contributed significantly to its early development, arguing that there needed to be a distinct level of warfare that dealt with the conduct of operations separate from tactics and strategy. This idea was a response to the static trench warfare of World War I and sought to find a way to achieve decisive victories through maneuver and operational depth.

Operational Art

The operational art is the skill of managing forces in the theater of operations to achieve strategic objectives. It involves the design, organization, and conduct of campaigns and major operations to maximize the probability of success. Key elements of operational art include the understanding of operational reach, tempo, and phasing; the effective use of operational reserves; and the integration of joint and combined arms capabilities.

Modern Application

In modern warfare, the operational level of war plays a crucial role in the planning and execution of military campaigns. It requires commanders to think beyond the immediate battlefield, considering factors such as logistics, intelligence, and the political implications of military actions. The use of technology, such as satellites and drones, has also transformed the operational level by providing commanders with real-time information and the ability to strike with precision over long distances.

Challenges

One of the main challenges at the operational level of war is the coordination between different branches of the military and ensuring that actions taken at the tactical level contribute towards strategic goals. This requires a deep understanding of both strategy and tactics, as well as the ability to adapt to changing circumstances on the battlefield.

Conclusion

The operational level of war serves as a critical link between the tactical actions of soldiers on the battlefield and the strategic objectives set by a nation's leadership. Its development and application have significantly influenced modern military strategy, emphasizing the importance of maneuver, speed, and the integration of various military capabilities in achieving victory.