|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Occupy Strong Natural Positions |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Generally, when an army takes up a position and sizes up the enemy situation, it should pay attention to the following: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
When crossing the mountains, be sure to stay in the neighborhood of valleys; when encamping, select high ground facing the sunny side; when high ground is occupied by the enemy, do not ascend to attack. So much for taking up a position in mountains. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
After crossing a river, you should get far away from it. When an advancing invader crosses a river, do not meet him in midstream. It is advantageous to allow half his force to get across and then strike. If you wish to fight a battle, you should not go to meet the invader near a river which he has to cross. When encamping in the riverine area, take a position on high ground facing the sun. Do not take a position at the lower reaches of the enemy. This relates to positions near a river. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In crossing salt marshes, your sole concern should be to get over them quickly, without any delay. If you encounter the enemy in a salt marsh, you should take position close to grass and water with trees to your rear. This has to do with taking up a position in salt marshes. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
On level ground, take up an accessible position and deploy your main flanks on high grounds with front lower than the back. This is how to take up a position on level ground. These are principles for encamping in the four situations named. By employing them, the Yellow Emperor conquered his four neighboring sovereigns. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Advantage of Natural Positioning |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In the Science of War, Colonel Henderson wrote: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"...by no means sufficient importance is attached to the selection of positions...and to the immense advantages that are to be derived from the proper utilization of natural features." |
|
|
|
|
|