Guerrilla warfare is a type of irregular warfare that involves small groups of combatants using unconventional tactics to achieve their objectives. These tactics often include ambushes, sabotage, hit-and-run attacks, and mobility, allowing guerrilla fighters to exploit their knowledge of the terrain and their ability to blend in with the civilian population. Unlike traditional armies that typically engage in direct, large-scale confrontations, guerrilla warfare relies on the element of surprise and the ability to disrupt and demoralize more powerful conventional forces.
Guerrilla warfare is often employed by groups facing a stronger opponent, such as insurgents fighting against an occupying power or revolutionaries attempting to overthrow a government. It can be effective in undermining public support for an enemy, drawing out conflicts, and fostering a protracted struggle that can wear down larger forces over time.
Historically, examples of guerrilla warfare can be found in various conflicts around the world, such as the American Revolutionary War, Vietnam War, and various anti-colonial movements. The strategies and tactics can vary widely based on the local context, culture, and goals of the guerrilla fighters involved.