![the operational art of war iv default folder the operational art of war iv default folder](https://1.bp.blogspot.com/_JUg9QsmKp5s/TORmgYdzGPI/AAAAAAAACCY/NB6IQJeeRHY/s000/feat1.jpg)
Missteps in the complex geopolitical environment that surround current operations can have long lasting, global consequences. 2The views on the requirement to understand the use of military force in the service of national or alliance interests and the character of war that were articulated during the 19 th century remain especially relevant today. He advised that the most significant judgement political and military leaders must make before becoming involved in a conflict is to understand the type of war in which they were about to become engaged. Also of significance for national leaders and military commanders are related thoughts that Clausewitz articulated on the necessity of comprehending the nature of war. This dictum that war is an extension of politics by other means is well known. War in general, and the commander in any specific instance, is entitled to require that the trend and designs of policy shall not be inconsistent with these meansThe political object is the goal, war is the means of reaching it, and the means can never be considered in isolation from their purpose. What remains peculiar to war is simply the peculiar nature of its means. War is not merely an act of policy but a true political instrument, a continuation of political intercourse carried on with other means. For more information on accessing this file, please visit our help page.