Tactical warfare refers to the use of military strategies and techniques to achieve specific objectives in battle. It focuses on the deployment and maneuvering of forces in a way that maximizes their effectiveness against the enemy. This type of warfare often involves small units and is characterized by quick, decisive actions that can change the course of a conflict. Key elements of tactical warfare include reconnaissance, surprise, and the effective use of terrain. Commanders analyze the battlefield to make informed decisions, employing tactics such as ambushes or flanking maneuvers. Historical examples include the strategies used by Sun Tzu in The Art of War and the innovative tactics of Hannibal during the Second Punic War.