asymmetric warfare

or asymmetrical warfare

noun

warfare in which opposing groups or nations have unequal military resources, and the weaker opponent uses unconventional weapons and tactics, as terrorism, to exploit the vulnerabilities of the enemy.

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British Dictionary definitions for asymmetrical warfare

asymmetrical warfare

noun

warfare between a powerful military force and a weak guerilla force

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012