Strategic lessons from military planning under conditions of uncertainty, complexity and risk

Abstract Background Challenges posed by uncertainty, complexity and risk are explored in relation to military strategy. Method Clausewitz’s theory of war provides a lens through which to examine historical developments in strategy and their accompanying responses to uncertainty, complexity and risk. Results Uncertainty, complexity and risk remain challenges to the formulation of strategy across changing political and technological contexts. Discussion Possible parallels with complex urban-planning projects are considered.