What term describes the constant push-pull of combat as a result of friction, fog, and uncertainty?

The term that best describes the constant push-pull of combat arising from friction, fog, and uncertainty is "chaos." In a military context, chaos encapsulates the unpredictable and often chaotic nature of warfare, where various elements can lead to rapid changes in the situation on the ground. Factors such as friction—referring to the complexities and unforeseen issues that complicate operations—fog—denoting the ambiguity and lack of clarity in the battlefield environment—and uncertainty—representing the unpredictability inherent in combat—combine to create a chaotic atmosphere.

This concept emphasizes that combat is not a linear or straightforward process; rather, it involves a dynamic interplay where plans may evolve or fail based on real-time conditions and numerous external variables. While terms like disorder and friction also relate to the difficulties experienced in combat, chaos specifically encapsulates the overarching condition influenced by the interaction of these elements. Therefore, the use of "chaos" in this context accurately reflects the chaotic nature of military operations in the face of uncertainty and friction.