Key Arguments

• He provides a second, more granular mapping of actions to each ground type.
• These directives tailor force posture, logistics, and psychology to terrain and depth.
• They reinforce prior prescriptions with additional command actions (e.g., blocking retreat to create death ground).

Source Quotes

46. Therefore, on dispersive ground, I would inspire my men with unity of purpose. On facile ground, I would see that there is close connection between all parts of my army. 47.

47. On contentious ground, I would hurry up my rear. 48.

48. On open ground, I would keep a vigilant eye on my defenses. On ground of intersecting highways, I would consolidate my alliances. 49.

49. On serious ground, I would try to ensure a continuous stream of supplies. On difficult ground, I would keep pushing on along the road. 50.

50. On hemmed-in ground, I would block any way of retreat. On desperate ground, I would proclaim to my soldiers the hopelessness of saving their lives. 51.

Key Concepts

• Therefore, on dispersive ground, I would inspire my men with unity of purpose. On facile ground, I would see that there is close connection between all parts of my army.
• On contentious ground, I would hurry up my rear.
• On open ground, I would keep a vigilant eye on my defenses. On ground of intersecting highways, I would consolidate my alliances.
• On serious ground, I would try to ensure a continuous stream of supplies. On difficult ground, I would keep pushing on along the road.
• On hemmed-in ground, I would block any way of retreat. On desperate ground, I would proclaim to my soldiers the hopelessness of saving their lives.

Context

xi. The Nine Situations — applied operational measures per ground