ANALYSIS OF THE APPLICABILITY OF CLAUSEWITZIAN FRICTION THEORY IN MODERN HYBRID WARFARE

Abstract

This article explores Clausewitz›s understanding of friction in military theory through the lens of contemporary asymmetric and hybrid conflicts, demonstrating how this concept has transformed from primarily a physical and tactical phenomenon into a multidimensional construct encompassing informational, cognitive, organizational, and strategic aspects. The research methodology combines historical analysis of Clausewitz›s original concept with empirical findings from contemporary conflicts and a multidisciplinary approach that integrates military, sociological, psychological, and technological perspectives. The article›s objective is to develop a new theoretical paradigm that can adequately encompass the complexity of friction in the digital age through identification, categorization, and analysis of new sources and manifestations of friction characteristic of the contemporary operational space. The findings provide a significant contribution to military theory and practice through redefining the classical concept of friction in a way that can inform more effective doctrine, training, and organization of military forces for navigating through the complexity of contemporary conflicts.