Quote Originally Posted by Ron Humphrey View Post

All the above could lead to the end state pointed out by Old CvC. The means can be just as much need/want/desire as it is actual capability to act. And as those on this board have often stated before each approach has its time place and utility.
...and thus the primary aim of the military in COIN is to act against the armed opponent. Other instruments of power act against or in support of other aims.