Military tactic

Military tactics is the collective name for methods of engaging and defeating an enemy in battle. Changes in philosophy and technology over time have been reflected in changes to military tactics.

Related Topics:
Enemy - Battle - Philosophy - Technology

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Up until the 19th century, many military tactics were confined to battlefield concerns, such as how to best maneuver units during combat in open terrain. In current military thought, tactics comprise the operational use of forces in a particular combat situation. Tactics may be contrasted with military strategy, which is concerned with the overall means and plan for achieving a long-term outcome.

Related Topics:
19th century - Battlefield - Operational use of forces - Military strategy

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Specialized tactics exist for many situations, ranging from securing a room or individual building, to large-scale operations such as establishing air superiority over a region. Today, military tactics are employed at all levels of command, from individual and group up to entire armed forces. Indeed, the units used in warfare have always been a reflection of current military tactics, and their size and composition have varied accordingly. In British terminology, military tactics involving naval forces are often called "naval tactics" (cf. usage of military).

Related Topics:
Room - Air superiority - British - Military

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Common military tactics include frontal assaults, attempts to flank the enemy, keeping troops in reserve and the use of ambushes. Often deception in the form of camouflage, or misdirection using decoys, are used to confuse the enemy.

Related Topics:
Frontal assault - Flank - Ambushes - Camouflage - Decoy

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