Category: Pointer Monthly Essays

This article delves into British grand strategy in the aftermath of the First World War. The author discusses the challenges London faced when implementing its “peace-with-security” strategy, and concludes that Britain successfully shaped the post-war world order but faced various challenges.

Using Carl von Clausewitz’s “trinity” as a framework for analysis, this article compares the performances of Generals Arthur Percival and Douglas MacArthur as commanders during the Malayan and Philippine campaigns in World War II respectively. Both campaigns ultimately ended in defeat by the Japa...

Despite its failure, the Gallipoli campaign offers an excellent case study in the application of maritime strategy. Was it a good strategy badly executed, or was it simply a bad maritime strategy? It was, as this essay will argue, a bad strategy which was poorly executed. Even if it had been exec...

This article offers readers a comprehensive introduction to the healthcare ecosystem of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). The myriad lines of effort undertaken throughout the entire spectrum of operations ensure: 1) force health optimisation and protection, so that all SAF service personnel are o...

Mpox, a highly contagious disease that spreads from animals to humans, presents unique challenges for militaries due to its rapid transmission and potential to disrupt operations. In response to the global mpox outbreaks in 2022 and 2024, the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) developed a phased approa...

“Operational art” – the grey area between strategy and tactics – has been a much-debated concept since it entered the Western military lexicon more than four decades ago. If the concept is indeed crucial on the battlefield and central to the profession of arms for military commanders, we ought to...

In this essay, the author argues that hybrid warfare, without resorting to a full-scale conventional offensive, cannot conclusively defeat an adversary nation state or opposing government. The author begins by explaining hybrid warfare and its main characteristics. Next, he attempts to discuss th...

The concept of Centre of Gravity (CoG) remains a cornerstone in military planning, yet consensus on its definition eludes both practitioners and academics. This ambiguity stems from Carl von Clausewitz’s varied interpretations, compounded by divergent perspectives within different military branch...

There are many qualities that a Commanding Officer (CO) must possess in order for them to lead their unit well. In this essay, the author shares the seven key factors that he feels an aspiring CO needs to consider when drawing out their own action plan as they take on the role of a CO, in order...

In this essay, the author explores the multifaceted challenges to regional security and co-operation within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region, focusing on political, economic and socio-cultural dimensions. The author then examines the effectiveness of these initiatives and...