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Attrition Warfare

NATO ConceptSTANAG Level 2+ to 3

Definition

Definition

A strategy of weakening the enemy through sustained casualties and material losses.

"The prolonged conflict had degenerated into attritional warfare."

How This Term Is Used

This is a doctrinal concept used primarily in strategic and operational-level NATO documents rather than everyday tactical communication. STANAG 6001 Level 3 candidates in particular should be able to discuss concepts like this one in an abstract, analytical way, not just recognise the term.

Practice

Fill in the blank:

"The prolonged conflict had degenerated into attritional warfare."

Answer: Attrition Warfare

Related NATO Concept Terms

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A multinational, multiservice task force for a specific mission; abbreviated CJTF.

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Information the commander needs to make a key decision.

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Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield

A systematic process for analysing the mission environment; abbreviated IPB.

Interoperability

The ability of different military forces or systems to work together effectively.

Lead Nation

The nation that leads a coalition or provides the framework for a multinational operation.

Manoeuvre Warfare

A warfighting philosophy that exploits enemy weakness and disorder.

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