Problem
Familiar plans fail when new threats change how war works.
Action
Test plans against unexpected enemy methods before combat begins.
Outcome
Forces adapt sooner when real events break old assumptions.
Chapter: A Failure of Imagination
Problem
Modern sensors can expose forces whenever they move or communicate.
Action
Use concealment and strict signal control during every operation.
Outcome
Enemy systems have fewer chances to find and target the force.
Chapter: The Transparent Battlespace
Problem
The force that attacks first can disrupt its opponent before resistance forms.
Action
Build rapid warning and response procedures for likely attacks.
Outcome
Units can protect themselves and seize the initiative sooner.
Chapter: The First Strike Advantage
Problem
Many armored vehicles have weak protection on their upper surfaces.
Action
Add overhead protection against drones and guided weapons.
Outcome
Vehicles become harder to destroy with top attacks.
Chapter: Top Attack
Problem
Human staffs cannot process growing amounts of battlefield data fast enough.
Action
Use artificial intelligence to identify threats and present clear choices.
Outcome
Commanders make informed decisions before opportunities disappear.
Chapter: Artificial Intelligence and the Accelerating Tempo of War
Problem
Autonomous weapons can act faster than human control systems can respond.
Action
Set clear human authority and safety limits before deploying autonomous weapons.
Outcome
Forces gain speed without losing accountability.
Chapter: The Transition to Fully Autonomous Weapons
Problem
Separate systems waste time while targets move or disappear.
Action
Link sensors and weapons through a shared combat network.
Outcome
The force can strike targets with the fastest suitable weapon.
Chapter: The Kill Web
Problem
A large drone swarm can overwhelm defenses built for a few targets.
Action
Layer electronic and physical defenses against mass drone attacks.
Outcome
Units can defeat more drones before their defenses are exhausted.
Chapter: The Super Swarm
Problem
Units make poor choices when they see only part of the battlefield.
Action
Combine current sensor reports into one shared visual picture.
Outcome
Leaders understand threats and opportunities more quickly.
Chapter: Visualize the Battlespace
Problem
Central approval slows action when battlefield conditions change quickly.
Action
Let trained local leaders make time-sensitive decisions within clear limits.
Outcome
The force acts faster than an opponent with centralized control.
Chapter: Decision Dominance
Problem
Modern operations depend on satellite links that enemies can disrupt.
Action
Build backup communication paths for every critical satellite service.
Outcome
Units remain connected when one network fails.
Chapter: The First Starlink War
Problem
Cities restrict movement and hide threats at close range.
Action
Practice coordinated urban operations in realistic city terrain.
Outcome
Units enter city fights with methods suited to the environment.
Chapter: Preparing for the Next City Fight
Problem
Ground defenses alone may not cover wide areas against unmanned aircraft.
Action
Deploy light tactical aircraft to patrol for hostile drones.
Outcome
The force gains a wider protective layer against aerial threats.
Chapter: The Big Blue Blanket - Light Tactical Aircraft for Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems Combat
Problem
Human units face greater risk when they perform every dangerous task themselves.
Action
Assign robotic systems to the most exposed battlefield tasks.
Outcome
The force extends its reach while reducing danger to people.
Chapter: Developing a Hybrid Human-Robotic Force
Problem
Large command posts are easy to detect and attack.
Action
Disperse command functions across small mobile teams.
Outcome
Command continues after enemy surveillance or attack.
Chapter: Command Post Rules
Problem
Sudden losses and confusion can break a unit's ability to act.
Action
Expose teams to realistic combat stress during repeated exercises.
Outcome
Units regain control faster when battle creates fear and disorder.
Chapter: Forging Battleshock