A Theory of Attrition

This article reframes attrition as an enduring and essential method of achieving military and political objectives. Amos C Fox argues that attrition is often dictated by terrain, force disposition and operational realities rather than choice or institutional bias. He critiques the manoeuvre warfare paradigm, instead proposing a comprehensive theory of attrition centred on the manipulation of firepower overmatch relative to battlefield conditions and enemy posture. This theory offers policymakers, strategists and military leaders a more realistic framework for understanding how wars are fought and won, especially in the context of industrialised, high-intensity conflicts of the 21st century.