Tactical Surprise

This monograph discusses the elements and dynamics of tactical surprise on the mid- to high-intensity conventional battlefield. Surprise has been a decisive principle of war throughout history. Today, however, surprise is increasingly critical to success on the battlefield. Surprise must be fully harnessed as an element of combat power. We cannot deal in platitudes--the cost is too great. The study first examines elements of creating and exploiting surprise by presenting a theoretical basis for considering surprise on the battlefield. Next, the evolution of methods to apply the principle of surprise on the modern battlefield is looked at. This section assesses the impact of major changes in conditions by focusing on the battlefield from World War I to the present emerging battlefield. As technology and capabilities increase the complexity and lethality of the battlefield, methods to achieve and exploit surprise also increase in complexity. Finally, a brief consideration of existing doctrinal coverage of the principle of surprise shows the lack of sophistication paid to surprise in current doctrine. Recommendations for further efforts and corrective actions are presented in the conclusion.