Asymmetrical warfare involves conflicts between opponents of vastly different military strengths, where the weaker side employs unconventional tactics like guerrilla warfare, terrorism, or cyberattacks to exploit the vulnerabilities of the stronger side.

Examples include the Vietnam War, where the Viet Cong used hit-and-run tactics against the technologically superior U.S. forces, or the insurgency in Iraq after the 2003 U.S. invasion. These tactics aim to neutralize the technological or numerical advantages of conventional forces, prolonging conflict and making traditional military strategies less effective.