Strategic Leader Readiness and Competencies for Asymmetric Warfare

Abstract

This article seeks to identify the adaptive linkages that exist between strategic leader competencies and the mental readiness7 for asymmetric and more conventional warfare. Fortunately, the writings of Sun Tzu and Clausewitz seem to offer a framework to help guide the needed adaptation in strategic leader thinking with regard to asymmetric approaches to warfare.8 An identification of these characteristics in the writings of both Sun Tzu and Clausewitz offers the opportunity to adapt their concepts to the present and anticipated challenges of asymmetric approaches to warfare.