Kriegführung

Kriegführung refers to the conduct of warfare. It encompasses the strategic, operational, and tactical aspects of how armed conflicts are planned and executed. This includes the use of military forces, resources, and methods to achieve political objectives through violence. The study of Kriegführung, or military science, examines the principles, history, and theory of warfare, seeking to understand what makes military operations successful.

Key elements of Kriegführung involve military strategy, which deals with the overall goals and plans for a war, and military tactics, which concern the specific maneuvers and engagements of forces in battle. Operational art bridges these two levels, linking strategic objectives to tactical actions. Historically, Kriegführung has evolved significantly with technological advancements, changes in political structures, and shifts in societal attitudes towards conflict.

Modern Kriegführung also considers factors beyond direct combat, such as logistics, intelligence, propaganda, and diplomacy. The aims can range from territorial conquest and defense to imposing political will or achieving economic dominance. Ethical considerations and international law, such as the laws of armed conflict, also play an increasingly important role in shaping how Kriegführung is conducted, though adherence to these can vary significantly. The ultimate goal of Kriegführung is to achieve a favorable outcome for one's own side while minimizing losses.