Coalition Warfare: A Successful Experiment on Combined Command, 1914-1918

If Country A attack Country B and the latter resists with armed force, the result is usually a war of indeterminate ferocity and duration. Each state pursues its national aims, whether they are territorial aggrandizement, ideological extension, economic exploitation, or self-preservation. If a third country, C, enters the war on the side of either A or B, the difficulties of waging war are compounded for the ensuing entente. Now, the national objectives of the partners, often divergent, become comingled and cooperation, even among the most sincere of allies, is impeded. Differences in language, tactics, organization, and historical patterns can obstruct the successful establishment and maintenance of a joint effort.