Why Adversaries May Choose Irregular Tactics
At a forum on irregular warfare in Hawaii, military leaders warned that improved U. S. conventional capabilities could push adversaries toward unconventional tactics, even as direct conflict remains possible.
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Israel and Lebanon to Hold Security Talks in Rome This OctoberHONOLULU—Army Brig. Gen. Michael Rose, head of Special Operations Command Pacific, told attendees at the Indo-Pacific Irregular Warfare Symposium that as U. S. forces grow more effective in traditional combat, opponents are increasingly likely to sidestep conventional battles. However, he stressed that avoiding traditional warfare does not mean adversaries will avoid confrontation entirely. The symposium, held last week in Honolulu, brought together defense experts to discuss evolving threats in the region.
How Should the U. S. Prepare for Non-Traditional Threats?
Rose explained that nations observing U. S. strengths in conventional domains—such as naval power and air superiority—may conclude that engaging on those terms is too risky. Instead, they could turn to cyber operations, disinformation campaigns, proxy forces, or guerrilla-style actions to achieve strategic goals without triggering a full-scale military response. This shift reflects a broader trend where adversaries seek advantages in areas where U. S. dominance is less pronounced. The general noted that such approaches allow opponents to exert pressure while minimizing the risk of direct retaliation.
Rose emphasized that the U. S. must adapt its own strategies to counter these evolving methods, investing in intelligence, special operations, and partnerships with regional allies. He highlighted the importance of understanding local contexts and building resilience against influence operations. The symposium featured discussions on how to detect early signs of irregular aggression and respond effectively without escalating to conventional war. Participants agreed that flexibility and interagency coordination are critical in addressing complex security challenges.
What does irregular warfare mean in this context? Irregular warfare refers to conflicts that avoid direct, large-scale military engagements, using tactics like cyberattacks, propaganda, or support for insurgents instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why might adversaries avoid conventional war with the U. S.? Adversaries may see conventional confrontation as too costly or likely to fail given U. S. military advantages, prompting them to pursue indirect methods.
What is the U. S. doing to counter these threats? The U. S. is enhancing its special operations capabilities, strengthening alliances, and improving defenses against non-traditional forms of aggression.
