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Robert R. Leonhard, The Principles of War for the Information Age. Novato, CA: Presidio Press, 1998. Pp. 287. $24.00, hardcover.
What is the key to victories in future wars? How should the United States wage war in the twenty-first century? Lieutenant Colonel Robert Leonhard, a veteran Army officer and military theorist who has served in a wide array of tactical and operational assignments, puts his vast experience of military operations to good use in tackling these questions. His latest book is an important addition to the current debate concerning the "revolution in military affairs" and the nature of war in the next century.
His study centers on the classic Principles of War and their relevance to modern combat. There are nine such classic principles in current U.S. military doctrine: Maneuver, Offensive, Economy of Force, Mass, Objective, Unity of Command, Surprise, Simplicity, and Security. These are the fundamental tenets of the modern military education system and are used in military schools and academies in the U.S. and, with slight variation, around the world.
This work is more than just old wine in a new bottle. His argument challenges the way in which the professional military thinks about war-and in a fashion that is both persuasive and educational. He explains the historical development and meaning of each one of the classic Principles of War and demonstrates their internal contradictions, shortcomings, and irrelevance to future conflict.
Yes, I said irrelevance. Leonhard argues that the...