Low-intensity conflict
Name(s):
Small war
Low-level conflict
Police operation
LIC
Limited war
Nature
The military doctrine of low-intensity conflict draws on counterinsurgency strategy of the early Vietnam War years, lessons from experiences in Lebanon, Central America, the Falklands war, and Afghanistan. In addition to counterinsurgency activity "pro-insurgency" (support of anti-government insurgents), counterterrorism, narcotics interdiction and police operations of the type used by the USA in Grenada. Specially trained units are developed and prepared for rapid deployment.
Claim
If engaging in a limited war results in a series of battle field defeats strong pressure would come to bear on the government to escalate the level of conflict. This could not only lead to a major long term commitment to a war like the USA in Vietnam or the USSR in Afghanistan. In pro-insurgency campaigns may provoke major attacks on countries providing sanctuary for insurgents also escalating the war.
Broader
Aggravated by
Value(s)
Reference(s)
Type
(E) Emanations of other problems