A raid is a swift attack carried out against an enemy target, often across hostile lines or into occupied territory, and ended before the attackers try to hold the ground. Raids may be made by land, sea, or air, and they are usually small, fast, and carefully planned.

What makes a raid different

Unlike a battle fought to seize territory, a raid is usually meant to damage, disrupt, capture, or gather information. Common goals include destroying equipment, cutting supply lines, taking prisoners, or forcing an opponent to divert forces. The attackers typically withdraw soon after the action, which helps distinguish a raid from an occupation or a prolonged assault.

Raids can range from irregular warfare and guerrilla attacks to highly organized special operations. They have been used throughout history by cavalry, naval forces, airborne units, and commandos. Some are designed to surprise an enemy at a weak point; others are used as demonstrations of force or as a way to test defenses.

History and examples

The idea is old: fast striking forces have long been used in warfare wherever mobility matters more than holding ground. In modern history, air raids became especially prominent with the development of military aviation. The attack on Pearl Harbor is often described as an air raid, because the attackers struck a target and then withdrew rather than attempting to occupy it.

Raids are usually brief, but their effects can be significant. A successful raid may damage morale, interrupt communications, or destroy supplies that are difficult to replace. For that reason, raids are often planned around surprise, speed, and intelligence about the target.

  • In military history, a raid is a temporary strike, not a campaign to govern territory.
  • In irregular warfare, raids are often associated with small units and rapid withdrawal.
  • The word is also used in computing for RAID, an unrelated storage technology.