Surprise attack

AS any fan of the A-Team knows, an ambush carried out by just a handful of men can have a devastating result on an unsuspecting enemy. Those caught on the wrong side of a surprise attack will suffer a disproportionate physical and psychological blow through the use of an ambush as a “force multiplier”, where a numerically-inferior force defeats a larger enemy. Springing an ambush does not come easy. Good intelligence is a prerequisite, as is reconnaissance and detailed planning. A rehearsal can capitalise on this, but to maintain the element of surprise, tight security – extending to troops and their civilian contacts – is essential. Clear communications and a simple plan are vital in making sure the attack is well executed. The force deployed must be overwhelming and backed up by high-quality training.