What does the term "Blitzkrieg" refer to in military tactics?

The term "Blitzkrieg," which translates to "lightning war" in German, refers to a military tactic that emphasizes rapid and decisive attacks to quickly overwhelm an opponent. This approach combines the use of coordinated infantry, tanks, and air support to create shock and confusion among enemy forces. The goal of Blitzkrieg is to achieve a swift victory, preventing the enemy from mobilizing or effectively responding.

This tactic was notably used by Germany during World War II, especially in their early campaigns against Poland and France, where the speed and surprise of the attacks led to significant and quick victories. By contrast, trench warfare (often associated with World War I) involved a more static and prolonged form of fighting, while naval blockades and guerilla tactics involve strategies that do not rely on the rapid, combined arms assaults characteristic of Blitzkrieg.