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The Psychology of Dynamic and Uncertain Operational Cadence in the Grey Zone/ MAJ Alvin Ong and Stephanie Phang

Singapore Armed Forces, author2025

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Summary

Unlike traditional warfare, with its defined enemies and objectives, grey zone conflicts are characterised by uncertainty, blurred boundaries, and the absence of clear adversaries. Such ambiguity can result in feelings of vulnerability, distrust, and paranoia among servicemen as they struggle to distinguish friend from foe and respond to elusive threats. The prolonged and shadowy nature of grey zone conflicts can also lead to fatigue, cynicism, and a sense of helplessness in the face of an ever-evolving threat landscape. This article will thus explore the psychological effects that long-term immersion in grey zone conflicts can have on servicemen, and subsequently detail various counter-measures that have or can be implemented to alleviate such effects.