“It is important to fully comprehend just how integral to the Russian military the use of surprise has been, certainly since its transition first to a Soviet and now post-Soviet organisation. More generally, it is also a concept much beloved by strategic thinkers and writers. Most obviously Carl von Clausewitz – ‘when it is successful in a high degree, confusion and broken courage in the enemy’s ranks are the consequences; and of the degree to which these multiply a success, there are examples enough great and small’.” – Professor Andrew Stewart, Head of Conflict Research at the CHACR, on why NATO should not be surprised by Moscow’s penchant for the unpredictable. 

Read our latest In-Depth Briefing above or click here to download a copy direct to your desktop.