Chapter 52. Short and Intense Decisive Battle (1)

Indeed, everyone understands the importance of seizing the initiative in war, without needing further explanation.

Whether through diplomacy or battle, gaining the upper hand over the opponent first. The impact of this act greatly influences the subsequent course of the war.

Not only in terms of physical damage, but also in intangible areas such as loss of prestige and decline in morale.

Even if a nation is inferior in national power or position, successfully seizing the initiative can bring enormous benefits. Prime examples of this are the Battle of the Kalka River by the Mongol army and the attack on Pearl Harbor by the Empire of Japan.

'Both were huge military successes.'

The Mongol army, led by Subutai, achieved victory in their Russian campaign by crushing the allied forces of the Russian principalities right from the start.

Japan launched a surprise attack on the main force of the US Pacific Fleet stationed at Pearl Harbor, sinking several battleships and destroying their air force.

Thanks to this, both nations were able to wage advantageous battles for the next few years, based on the tactical/strategic advantage they had gained. Achieving results that would have been impossible through conventional warfare.

'Though the outcomes for the two nations were completely opposite.'

However, it's important to note that the follow-up must be decisive. If you win ambiguously and stop there, you might be hit back later...