Maneuver Warfare: Common Misconceptions – Special Tactics

“Maneuver Warfare Theory,” commonly associated with Air Force Colonel John Boyd and military historian Bill Lind, has always been a controversial topic. Proponents of Maneuver Warfare are often labeled as mavericks who have trouble conforming to military culture and discipline. In turn, “Maneuverists” often brand their opponents as uncreative micromanagers who can only win with overwhelming firepower. However, such heated debates are often misguided and founded on misunderstanding. Several key insights can help illuminate the true nature of Maneuver Warfare.

One of the most common misconceptions about Maneuver Warfare is that its opposite is attrition warfare. Labeling Maneuver Warfare and attrition warfare as opposites does not make logical sense. It is possible to use Maneuver Warfare to accomplish attrition-based objectives. Therefore, the two cannot be antithetical. In fact, some degree of attrition is an inherent part of every combat operation. The true essence of Maneuver Warfare (with a capital “M”) primarily relates to a method of command and control. Therefore, the opposite of Maneuver Warfare must be the opposite method of command and control: Synchronization Warfare....