Which level of war links tactical employment of forces to national and military strategic objectives?

The operational level of war serves as the critical link between the tactical employment of forces and national and military strategic objectives. It is at this level that commanders translate strategic guidance into actionable plans that outline how forces will be grouped and employed on the battlefield to achieve desired outcomes that align with higher-level policies and goals.

The operational level focuses not only on the execution of battles and engagements but also on the coordination of various operations across a theater of war. This coordination ensures that tactical actions, which occur at the lowest levels of command, effectively contribute to the overarching objectives defined by national military strategies. Thus, it emphasizes the importance of aligning the practical use of military resources with the strategic imperatives dictated by national leadership.

Understanding this level of war is essential because it addresses the "how" of strategy—how forces are organized, deployed, and sustained to attain specific end states that fulfill national interests. This alignment ensures coherence across all levels of military operations, crucial for effective warfare.