EDITOR'S CORNER: Asymmetric Warfare

These days, wars are waged both conventionally and unconventionally. Major powers often target smaller nations in efforts to assert dominance. Yet, smaller countries today hold a significant edge compared to just a few decades ago. With the rise of hybrid warfare, cyber operations, drones, and other technological tools, asymmetrical warfare has become a realistic and effective strategy for underdogs facing much larger foes.

In this blog post, we’ll explore what asymmetrical warfare entails and examine some current real-world examples. Finally, we’ll consider whether this approach is a smart strategy for less advantaged nations—and why.

WHAT IS ASYMMETRICAL WARFARE?

Asymmetrical warfare refers to conflict between groups or nations with vastly different military capabilities or strategies. Instead of meeting larger, more advanced forces head-on, the weaker side uses unconventional tactics to exploit vulnerabilities. These can include guerrilla warfare, cyber attacks, misinformation campaigns, and the use of low-cost but high-impact technologies like drones or IEDs. The goal is not necessarily to defeat the stronger opponent outright, but to wear them down, disrupt their operations, and force them into a prolonged, costly struggle.

ISRAEL’S MODERN PLAYBOOK

Israel’s covert Operation "Grim Beeper" against Hezbollah in 2024 is a clear example of how asymmetrical tactics can create high impact without large-scale military confrontation. By secretly planting explosives inside thousands of pagers and walkie-talkies that Hezbollah operatives unknowingly used, Israeli intelligence weaponized everyday communication tools. The devices were detonated remotely, causing chaos, deaths, and widespread mistrust within Hezbollah’s ranks. This precision sabotage allowed Israel to strike deep into enemy networks without crossing borders or firing a single bullet.

Fast forward to just a day ago, on June 13th 2025, and Operation "Rising Lion" illustrates the same principle—this time on a broader scale. Israel deployed over 200 fighter jets to strike more than 100 strategic sites across Iran, including nuclear facilities and homes of top commanders. The strikes were designed to paralyze Iran’s military infrastructure and eliminate key leadership figures. Iran retaliated with a barrage of missiles and drones, most of which were intercepted. This exchange shows how both nations are turning to air power, cyber intelligence, and rapid-response systems instead of conventional ground battles.

Together, these two operations highlight the growing dominance of asymmetrical warfare in today’s global conflicts. Whether through a disguised explosive in a pager or a fleet of stealth jets, the focus is shifting from brute force to smart, targeted disruption. Smaller players can exploit technology to punch above their weight, while even powerful nations are adapting by prioritizing speed, secrecy, and strategic precision over traditional warfare.

ASYMMETRICAL WARFARE IN UKRAINE

The conflict in Ukraine from 2022 onward has become a clear example of modern asymmetrical warfare unfolding in real time. Despite Russia’s larger military, Ukraine has effectively used guerrilla tactics, drones, and cyber operations to disrupt and slow the invasion. Commercial drones, precision strikes, and intelligence sharing have turned relatively low-cost technology into powerful tools against a much bigger force. Cyberattacks targeting infrastructure have added a digital layer to the battlefield, making the conflict as much about information and technology as traditional combat.

With the war still ongoing, Ukraine continues to rely on mobility, local knowledge, and international support to offset Russia’s advantages. By incorporating flexible, targeted actions, Ukraine demonstrates how asymmetrical strategies can sustain resistance against a larger power. This conflict is a vivid example of how warfare in the 21st century increasingly blends conventional and unconventional tactics, evolving as it unfolds.

WHY ASYMMETRICAL WARFARE WORKS FOR SMALL NATIONS

Asymmetrical warfare offers smaller nations a way to challenge much stronger opponents without matching them in sheer numbers or firepower. By avoiding direct, large-scale battles where the stronger side’s advantages dominate, smaller countries can focus on hit-and-run tactics, sabotage, and exploiting vulnerabilities. This approach allows them to conserve limited resources while maximizing the impact of every action, turning the tide through patience and strategy rather than brute force.

Technology has also leveled the playing field, making asymmetrical tactics even more effective. Affordable drones, cyber tools, and communication systems give smaller forces new ways to gather intelligence, disrupt enemy operations, and strike unexpectedly. These capabilities allow them to operate with agility and surprise, often forcing larger militaries to respond reactively. In many cases, the psychological effect of uncertainty and unpredictability can be as damaging as physical losses.

Finally, asymmetrical warfare enables small nations to leverage their local knowledge and popular support—critical advantages that are difficult for larger powers to overcome. By blending military actions with information campaigns and political strategies, they can build resilience and legitimacy both at home and abroad. This holistic approach makes asymmetrical warfare not just a military tactic, but a broader tool for survival and influence in an uneven conflict.

CONCLUSION

Asymmetrical warfare has proven to be a crucial strategy for smaller nations and irregular forces facing much stronger opponents. By using creative tactics, advanced technology, and precise operations—as demonstrated by Israel’s covert strikes and Ukraine’s ongoing resistance—these players can disrupt and weaken their adversaries without engaging in direct, large-scale battles.

This evolving form of warfare shows that adaptability, intelligence, and innovation often outweigh sheer size and firepower in modern conflicts. It underscores how smaller forces can effectively challenge giants by staying flexible, leveraging technology, and exploiting their unique advantages on today’s complex battlefield.