Critical thinking on exploitable weakness in terrorism

The article titled, Sun Tzu’s war theory in the twenty first century by Li-Sheng Arthur Kuo, seeks to extrapolate the theories that are instrumental in shaping up the policy of leading nations against terrorism. He makes a strong case for the application of 21st century strategic environment in modern warfare. According to Li-Sheng, it is on the basis of these theories that contemporary values can be instrumental in ensuring battle avoidance. The article categorically interrogates the volatile environment under which the American government operates in the international arena. He argues a case for adoption of a new approach in order to guarantee success in the modern warfare. His theories touch on the significance of strategy, leadership and intelligence. He argues that this can be integrated by demonstrating how operational commanders and strategies can achieve success. The articles points out how unstable conditions, such as the proliferation of rogue states and increased terrorist groups, have enhanced the spread of misplaced ideological and religious warfare. He argues that if the American army would adopt and implement Sun Tzu’s philosophies, which were instrumental to world emperors including Napoleon, it would be easier for them to face their numerous present and emerging adversaries.
The Art of War philosophy has become extremely popular not only among the military generals, but also the heads of state and world leaders at large. It is extremely essential to plan methodically before embarking on warfare. This needs clarity of thought, reliable intelligence and precision of expression and area of attack. Strategy is the most significant factor before waging war. The Art of War in essence includes; estimation, dispositions, weaknesses and strengths, terrain knowledge, maneuvers, the nine variables and employment of secrets agents among others methods. This is why many security agencies have been caught off guard by terrorist groups. The military needs to adopt a strategy that projects uncertainty towards terrorist groups. To achieve this, it is essential for them to ensure that they carry out asymmetrical and irregular warfare. This will weaken the links and joints of terror groups. In order to erode the power and influence of terror groups, the military need to ensure their incapacitate leaders.

Reference

Li-Sheng, K. A. (2007). Sun Tzu’s War Theary in the Twenty First Century. U. S. Army War College, Carlisle Barracks.