Underground Warfare

Underground warfare is defined as fighting that occurs under the earth’s surface. Underground warfare can be used synonymously with subterranean or tunnel warfare.

John Spencer has conducted years of research, study, and scholarship into understanding underground environments and the history, lessons and requirements of military operations during underground warfare.

John Spencer is a founding member of the International Working Group on Subterranean Warfare.

Underground WARFARE RELATED Works

Professional Articles

“Israel’s New Approach to Tunnels: A Paradigm Shift in Underground Warfare,” Modern War Institute, December 2, 2024

“Israel’s Campaign against Hezbollah and the fight for Southern Lebanon’s Tunnels,” Modern War Institute, October 2, 2024 (coauthored)

“Gaza’s Underground: Hamas’s Entire Politico-Military Strategy Rests on Its Tunnels,” Modern War Institute, January 18, 2024

“Underground Nightmare: Hamas Tunnels and the Wicked Problem Facing the IDF,” Modern War Institute, October 17, 2023

“War Books: Preparing for Underground Warfare,” Modern War Institute, February 12, 2020

“The Return of Tunnel Bombs: A Medieval Tactic on the Modern Battlefield,” Modern War Institute, December 30, 2019

“Facing Our Underground Nightmares: Casting Light On the Subterranean,” Army Magazine, August 20, 2019 (coauthored)

“My Underground Warfare Wish List,” Modern War Institute, February 19, 2019

“While the North Korean Nuclear Button Cools, The Threat of The Underground Lingers,” Modern War Institute, August 31, 2018 (coauthored)

“Cadets discuss subterranean environments with NYC firefighters,” The Pointer View, March 12, 2015

podcasTs (Urban Warfare Project Podcast)

#79 - “Underground Warfare 101,” September 27, 2024

#70 - “What Can the IDF Do about Hamas Tunnel,” October 20, 2023

#6 - “When War Goes Underground,” April 3, 2020