Taking Advantage of Conditions

Where grass and trees are dense and clustered, conditions favor mobile movement, advance and retreat, and opportunistic harassment. Where mountains and forests form layered obstacles and strategic passes, conditions favor launching a surprise attack. Where the terrain ahead is screened by woods but lacks concealment that can be used, conditions favor setting ambushes and hiding. When attacking many with few, dusk is more favorable. When attacking few with many, early morning is more favorable. When one possesses strong crossbows and long weapons, conditions favor rapid engagement and a quick decision. When separated by deep pools or water, and when strong wind and dim light obscure visibility, conditions favor holding the enemy in front while sending forces around to strike from behind. Modern Application:The previous chapter, “Follow-Up Response,” divided the use of troops into upper, middle, and lower grades; this chapter gives a more concrete operating principle: at the same level of capability, victory or defeat depends on how well the method of action matches......