Incursions

An incursion is an act of entering another region or territory, typically for a specific purpose and for a limited duration. The term is most often used in a military context to describe a brief or limited intrusion into foreign territory, sometimes accompanied by reconnaissance, strikes, or disruptive actions, and intended to achieve political or strategic objectives without committing to a full-scale invasion. The word derives from Latin incurrere, “to run into.”

In military operations, incursions are usually planned to minimize exposure and political risk, test defenses, gather intelligence, or pressure an adversary. They may prompt responses such as mobilization, border fortifications, or diplomatic protests. International law addresses sovereignty and the use of force; incursions can raise questions of legality, necessity, proportionality, and self-defense. Reactions depend on the circumstances and the relationships between states.

Other domains: cyber incursions refer to unauthorized intrusions into computer networks, often for espionage or disruption. Space and maritime contexts may describe incursions into contested zones or exclusive economic zones as incursions.

Impacts can include casualties, displacement, escalation, and risk of miscalculation. Incursions are often sensitive political issues, influencing trust, deterrence, and future negotiations.

See also: border raid, cross-border attack, raid, breach.