What is meant by "uncertainty" in war?

The concept of "uncertainty" in war is deeply tied to the idea of the "fog of war," which refers to the confusion and ambiguity that can exist in battlefield situations due to incomplete or inaccurate information. This uncertainty complicates decision-making processes for military leaders, as it hinders their ability to understand the enemy's intentions, movements, and overall disposition. The fog of war emphasizes that information can often be limited, misleading, or unavailable, making it difficult to gain a clear picture of the operational environment.

This concept is integral to understanding how military forces operate, as uncertainty can impact strategy, tactics, and readiness. Leaders must often act based on imperfect information, which requires adaptability and the capacity to deal with unpredictability in various scenarios. Recognizing and addressing this uncertainty is key to effective military planning and execution.