What is asymmetric warfare?

Asymmetric warfare refers to conflict in which opposing forces exhibit significant differences in military capabilities, strategies, or tactics. This often involves a weaker opponent leveraging unconventional methods to exploit the vulnerabilities of a more powerful adversary. Such tactics can include guerrilla warfare, cyber operations, and exploiting terrain to offset conventional strengths. This type of warfare is characterized by the use of surprise, mobility, and the ability to adapt quickly to the strengths and weaknesses of the enemy.

While guerrilla warfare is a form of asymmetric warfare, it does not encapsulate the entire concept, which can also involve irregular tactics utilized by various groups against conventional military forces. Therefore, asymmetrical warfare is broader in scope than merely identifying it as a type of guerrilla warfare. The distinction in military capabilities and the application of unconventional methods to challenge a conventional force highlight the essence of asymmetric warfare.