Why Conventional Warfare Will Remain Relevant in Modern Warfare
Introduction
1. Modern day warfare is characterized by complex geopolitical dynamics and the use of sophisticated technologies. In the present world, nations fight wars with non-state actors alongside other nations to preserve their national interests. Nations resort to hybrid and non-conventional warfare to avoid depletion of national resources and escalation of tension. While warfare has significantly transformed over the recent decades, the relevance of conventional war remains till today. Conventional warfare will continue to play a key role in the near future as the cornerstone of national military doctrine and prime method of achieving national objectives.
Conventional Warfare as the Cornerstone of Military Strategy
2. Conventional warfare remains a fundamental aspect of military development and national strategy. Most nations still formulate their military strategy around the concept of preparation for a conventional war in order to protecting their national interest and sovereignty. This approach influences the development of the military and the modernisation of the armed forces, providing an objective-driven framework. One such example is the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China. Over the past few decades, China has invested heavily in conventional military capabilities, including advanced naval fleets, fighter jets, and missile defence systems, as part of its broader military modernization strategy. China’s defence policy remains heavily cantered around maintaining a strong conventional military to assert its territorial claims in the South China Sea and deter external influence. Alongside this, the example of Bangladesh can be cited. Bangladesh has adopted the Forces Goal-2030, which is a modernisation plan mostly for the conventional capabilities of its Armed Forces. This has initiated a dynamic change in the development of the military and national strategy of Bangladesh.
Conventional Warfare as a Means to Achieve National Objectives
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3. Conventional war is often the most decisive way to achieve a strategic military objective. While unconventional tactics, such as guerrilla warfare or cyber-attacks, can be part of a broader military strategy, they usually serve as supplementary methods that enhance conventional operations. A prime example of this is Russia’s invasion of Ukraine (2022-present). Despite the use of cyber-attacks, drone warfare and information warfare, Russia’s initial attack was primarily based on conventional tactics to secure strategic objectives. Ukraine’s response has also relied on conventional military elements, including tanks, fighter jets, and infantry. This ongoing conflict underscores the continued relevance of conventional warfare in large-scale territorial disputes, that augments the attainment of national military objectives.
The Argument Against Conventional Warfare’s Relevance
4. Some argue that conventional warfare is gradually losing its relevance in the modern age, and it will be further in the near future. They claim that nations now mostly engage with non-state actors who are not bound by geographical area. Besides, militaries have developed sophisticated weapons which can hit key targets deep inside enemy territory, thus increasing deterrence. However, deterrence strategies, including the development of nuclear weapons, rely heavily on the credibility of a nation’s conventional military power. The U.S. and Russia maintain large conventional forces as part of their nuclear deterrence strategies. Conventional military readiness remains a prerequisite for effectively countering non-state actors. While modern warfare increasingly incorporates cyber operations, special forces, and non-state actors, the ability to engage in conventional conflict remains crucial for ensuring national security.
Conclusion: The Future of Conventional Warfare
5. In conclusion, while warfare is undoubtedly evolving, the relevance of conventional warfare remains undeniable. Modern technologies and unconventional tactics have reshaped how wars are fought, but conventional military operations still provide the core of a nation’s defence strategy. Whether in the form of large-scale conflict or localized territorial disputes, conventional warfare remains a critical tool for achieving national military objectives. As long as sovereignty and national interests are at stake, conventional warfare will continue to serve as an essential method for securing peace and stability in the near future.
