Revolution in Military Affairs Flogging a Dead Horse
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Aug 18, 2025 Rob Malcom, a U.S. Marine Corps infantry officer and faculty advisor at the Marine Corps Command and Staff College, dives deep into the nuances of maneuver warfare. He discusses its evolution and contrasts it with attrition warfare, sharing personal anecdotes and critiquing rigid military strategies. The conversation also tackles the complexities of military planning, identifying vulnerabilities, and the challenges posed by effects-based operations. Additionally, Malcom highlights the impact of digital identity in modern warfare.
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Maneuver As A Mindset, Not A Cure-All
- Rob Malcom says maneuver warfare is often presented dogmatically and can be misread as a panacea.
- He warns proponents sometimes treat it as an end rather than a means to win conflicts.
Firepower And Maneuver Aren't Opposed
- Malcom rejects the idea that maneuver and firepower are morally opposed or mutually exclusive.
- He emphasizes there is no inherent opposition between maneuver warfare and using firepower effectively.
Terrain And Proximity Limit Maneuver Options
- Bill Murray argues terrain, offense/defense dynamics, and proximity shrink maneuver space as forces close on objectives.
- He stresses situation and space, not preference, determine whether attrition or maneuver dominates.
