6 Alexander Suvorov Quotes on Tactics

Alexander Suvorov quotes on tactics

2. The bullet is a fool, the bayonet is a fine chap.

7. The three military arts. First - Apprehension, how to arrange things in camp, how to march, how to attack, pursue, and strike; for taking up position, final judgement of the enemy's strength, for estimating his intentions. Second - Quickness... This quickness doesn't weary the men. The enemy doesn't expect us, reckons us 100 versts away, and if a long way off to begin with - 200, 300 or more - suddenly we're on him, like snow on the head; his head spins. Attack with what comes up, with what God sends; the cavalry to begin, smash, strike, cut off, don't let slip, hurra! Brothers do miracles! Third - Attack. Leg supports leg. Arm strengthens arm; many men will die in the volley; the enemy has the same weapons, but he doesn't know the Russian bayonet. Extend the line - attack at once with cold steel; extend the line without stopping... the Cossacks to get through everywhere... In two lines is strength; in three, half as much again; the first breaks, the second drives into heaps, the third overthrows.

12. Fight the enemy with the weapons he lacks.

15. A strong pursuit, give no time for the enemy to think, take advantage of victory, uproot him, cut off his escape route.

24. To surprise the enemy is to defeat him.

25. Judgment of eye, speed and attack are the basis of victory.