Military Supply Interdiction Strategy

Overview

A defensive military strategy for defeating a stronger enemy by cutting off their supply lines rather than engaging in direct combat. Attributed to Deng Duwei's advice to General Zhou Yafu during the Seven States Rebellion.

Steps

1. Assess Enemy Strength

   • Recognize when enemy forces are superior in quality and cannot be defeated in direct confrontation
   • Identify enemy's logistical dependencies (supply routes, food sources)

2. Choose Defensive Position

   • Select a fortified location (e.g., Changyi) that anchors your position
   • Ensure position allows control over key supply routes

3. Delegate the Initial Fight

   • Allow an allied force (e.g., Liang) to bear the brunt of enemy attacks
   • This serves to weaken and distract the enemy

4. Construct Strong Defenses

   • Build deep trenches and high ramparts
   • Prepare for a prolonged standoff

5. Cut Supply Lines

   • Deploy light mobile forces to seize key transit points (e.g., Huai-Si crossing)
   • Block enemy's supply and reinforcement routes

6. Wait for Exhaustion

   • Allow enemy to deplete their resources attacking your ally
   • Enemy will become hungry, demoralized, and weakened

7. Strike at the Right Moment

   • When enemy is exhausted and supplies are gone, engage with fresh troops
   • Victory comes from superior conditioning against a depleted foe

Decision Points

• If enemy offers battle prematurely, refuse engagement
• Only attack when enemy shows clear signs of supply exhaustion

Expected Outcomes

• Enemy forces weakened without direct confrontation
• Minimal losses to your main force
• Decisive victory through logistical superiority

Verification

1. Confirm that enemy logistical dependencies (supply routes, food sources) have been identified and mapped before committing mobile forces.
2. Validate that the defensive position controls key supply transit points and can withstand prolonged siege.
3. Ensure the main force engages only after clear signs of enemy supply exhaustion (hunger, demoralization, weakened formations).