Military invasion is a large-scale military operation in which armed forces of one geopolitical entity aggressively enter territory controlled by another such entity. It may be part of a war or it may occur as an independent conflict. Military invasion is generally characterized by large-scale forces and long periods of military occupation. It may also profoundly change the culture of the invaded country and its political landscape.
Invasion may occur by land, sea, or air. Invasion by land, in particular before the invention of fast transportation and aerial warfare, typically involves a slow incursion by a massed army of infantry and cavalry. It requires extensive logistical support and can be impeded by weather, terrain, or natural resources. Invasions by sea or air can be more rapid and cover a greater distance. They can be more difficult to defend, however, and they may require the use of specialized equipment, such as amphibious vehicles.
A military invasion can be triggered by a number of factors, including the pursuit or defeat of enemies; policy of national interest; acquisition of natural resources; protection of allies; preemption of a real or perceived future attack; or quelling destabilizing and unconscionable conflict within or between neighbors. The consequences of a military invasion can include loss of life, economic setbacks, social disruption, and the displacement of populations.
Invasions of a foreign territory are often met with retaliation by the invaded country, which can result in counter-invasion and civil war. Opponents of invasion strategy frequently cite continuing conflicts such as Northern Ireland, Israel, and Chechnya as proof that such tactics have not proven conclusively to be successful.
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