Bao Tao: Sudden Strike

King Wu asked Tai Gong:
"When the enemy advances deep into our territory, plundering our lands, seizing our oxen and horses, their massive forces swarm forward and press close to our city walls. Our soldiers are filled with terror, and our civilians are captured as prisoners. Under such circumstances, how can we ensure our defenses remain unshaken and our attacks guarantee victory?"

Tai Gong replied:
"Such an enemy is called a sudden-strike force (突袭性敌军 tū xí xìng dí jūn). Their oxen and horses surely lack fodder, and their soldiers are certainly without provisions—thus they launch fierce attacks against us. In this situation, you must order our distant garrison forces to select elite troops and swiftly strike the enemy’s rear. Carefully calculate and set a precise time for a coordinated attack, ensuring our forces converge under the cover of darkness. Then, unleash the entire army in a rapid and violent assault. Though the enemy may be numerous, their general will be captured."

King Wu asked:
"If the enemy divides into three or four divisions—one attacking to seize our lands, another halting to plunder our oxen, horses, and supplies, while their main force has not yet fully arrived—and sends a detachment to press against our city walls, causing panic throughout our army, what should we do?"

Tai Gong replied:
"Thoroughly observe the situation and strengthen your defenses before the enemy’s full arrival. Construct a fortified camp four li from the city, displaying golden drums and banners prominently. Deploy a separate unit as an ambush force. Concentrate powerful crossbows on the ramparts of our camp. Every hundred paces, install a hidden gateway (暗门 àn mén) for troop sorties, with caltrops (拒马 jù mǎ) blocking the front. Position chariots and cavalry outside the camp, while concealing elite soldiers in ambush. When the enemy arrives, first send our lightly armored troops to engage them, then feign defeat and retreat. Order the defenders on the city walls to raise flags and beat war drums, preparing thoroughly for defense. The enemy, believing our main force is guarding the city, will inevitably advance to the walls. At this moment, suddenly unleash the ambush forces to penetrate the enemy’s formation or strike their flanks. Simultaneously, order the entire army to attack ferociously, assaulting both the enemy’s front and rear. This will render their brave soldiers unable to fight and their swift troops unable to flee. This method is called Sudden Strike Tactics (突战 tū zhàn). Even if the enemy is vast in number, their commander will surely flee in defeat."

King Wu said:
"Excellent!"