Vernichtungsgedanke

Vernichtungsgedanke, literally meaning "concept of annihilation" in German and generally taken to mean "the concept of fast annihilation of enemy forces" is a tactical doctrine dating back to Frederick the Great. It emphasizes rapid, fluid movement to unbalance an enemy, allowing the attacker to impose his will upon the defender and avoid stalemate. It relies on uncommonly rigorous training and discipline and thoroughly professional leadership. Much of Vernichtungsgedanke can be seen in Clausewitz’ classic treatise Vom Kriege (On War).

This doctrine was used in the War of Austrian Succession, the Seven Years' War, the Napoleonic Wars, the Austro-Prussian War and the Franco-Prussian War (1870–1871). The military success of the Kingdom of Prussia and then Germany was the catalyst of the alliance systems of 19th century Europe.

The arms races of this period produced the military equipment that eroded the attacker’s advantage during Europe's "Long Peace". It gave an advantage to the defender and set the stage for the stalemate of the First World War. The long reign of Vernichtungsgedanke as the prime tactical doctrine of modern warfare ended on the Western Front because of the huge concentrations of men and materiel on this front that made getting on the flank or rear of the enemy impossible. On the Eastern Front the idea was however redeemed and flourished in such battles as Tannenberg mainly due to the much lower density of men and machine on this front that left more space to maneuver.

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