|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In directing such an enormous army, a speedy victory is the main object. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
If the war is long delayed, the men's weapons will be blunted and their ardor will be dampened. If the army attacks cities, their strength will be exhausted. Again, if the army engages in protracted campaigns, the resources of the state will not suffice. Now, when your weapons are blunted, your ardor dampened, your strength exhausted and your treasure spent, neighboring rulers will take advantage of your distress to act. In this case, no man, however wise, is able to avert the disastrous consequences that ensue. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Thus, while we have heard of stupid haste in war, we have not yet seen a clever operation that was prolonged. There has never been a case in which a prolonged war has benefited a country. Therefore, only those who understand the dangers inherent in employing troops know how to conduct war in the most profitable way. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Hence, what is valued in war is a quick victory, not prolonged operations. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Throughout history, winning generals developed disciplines and systems for moving faster than their opponents. Napoleon's troops marched at 120 paces per minute while his opponents marched at 70 paces. Since Napoleon's troops marched almost twice as fast as his opponents, speed alone gave him a tremendous advantage that was a major contributor to his success. |
|
|
|
|
|