The saying that drills should be bloodless battles and battles bloody drills links preparation directly to deterrence. Training should prepare forces for the toughest war they might face rather than merely rehearse comfortable scenarios. Preparation also has a signaling function when outsiders can see it and believe the demonstrated competence. A potential opponent who trusts that evidence may decide not to test the force in battle. Armed forces can therefore produce deterrent value through credible readiness without having to fight.
Notable Point · 19:03-19:51
Visible drills can prevent battles
Demanding, visible, and proven training can turn drills into a bloodless substitute for the battle an opponent no longer wishes to risk.