Strategy (Liddell Hart book)

Strategy is a book by B.H. Liddell Hart, a highly influential British military theorist. First published in 1954 under the title Strategy: The Indirect Approach, it was later revised and republished in 1967 under the simpler title Strategy. The book outlines Liddell Hart's theories on military strategy, emphasizing the importance of the "indirect approach," which advocates for disrupting the enemy's equilibrium and achieving surprise through maneuver and deception, rather than direct frontal assaults.

Key concepts explored in the book include:

• The Indirect Approach: Liddell Hart argued that the most effective way to defeat an enemy is not through direct confrontation and overwhelming force, but by targeting their weaknesses, disrupting their plans, and forcing them into unfavorable positions. This involves outmaneuvering the opponent both physically and psychologically.

• Dislocation: A core principle of the indirect approach is to dislocate the enemy – to unbalance them physically or psychologically, making them vulnerable to defeat. This could involve attacking their supply lines, communications, or morale.

• Adaptability: The book stresses the importance of flexibility and adaptability in strategy. Plans should be adaptable to changing circumstances, and commanders should be prepared to deviate from their original intentions if necessary.

• Objective: Liddell Hart emphasizes that a clear and well-defined objective is essential for successful strategy. This objective should be achievable and contribute to the overall political goals of the war.

• Concentration of Force: While advocating for the indirect approach, Liddell Hart also recognized the importance of concentrating force at the decisive point. However, he argued that this concentration should be achieved through maneuver and deception, rather than through a costly attrition battle.

• Grand Strategy: Strategy also touches upon the concept of grand strategy, which encompasses the coordination of all resources of a nation – military, economic, and political – to achieve national objectives in both peace and war.

Strategy has had a profound impact on military thinking and continues to be studied by military professionals and strategists around the world. Its emphasis on maneuver warfare, deception, and the importance of understanding the enemy's psychology has influenced military doctrine and operational planning in numerous conflicts. The book explores historical examples to illustrate his points and provide practical guidance for strategic decision-making.