Asymmetric warfare generally refers to conflicts that involve:

Asymmetric warfare primarily involves conflicts where opposing forces have significantly varied military capabilities or tactics. This concept reflects the reality that one side may possess superiority in technology, resources, or experience, while the other may rely on unconventional methods and strategies to exploit vulnerabilities. For example, a state with advanced military technology might face a non-state actor utilizing guerrilla tactics, cyber warfare, or terrorism, which allows the weaker party to neutralize the advantages of the stronger opponent.

This type of warfare often results in a mismatch in the nature of tactics employed, emphasizing adaptability and the use of unconventional methods to achieve objectives despite the disparity in power. In today's global landscape, this may include strategies such as using information warfare, mobilizing public sentiment, and leveraging social media in conflicts.

Other choices refer to different contexts: conflicts between equally matched forces are usually termed conventional warfare, the use of nuclear weapons is a specific aspect of strategic deterrence or conflict escalation, and warfare involving only cyber threats represents a specific modern domain rather than the broad spectrum of asymmetric tactics. Thus, the nature of asymmetric warfare is best captured by the diversity in military capabilities and the innovative tactics employed by the weaker party.