What is the 11th man theory?

The 11th man theory is a military doctrine that suggests maintaining one extra soldier in a unit or team beyond the usual or designated complement of soldiers.

The theory is based on the idea that, during combat, unexpected situations may arise that require additional manpower or resources to overcome. Having an extra soldier in the unit could help counter such situations, ensuring that there is always someone available to provide assistance and support to other members of the team.

The 11th man theory is also seen as a way of promoting unity and teamwork among soldiers. Having an extra person in the unit forces team members to work together more effectively, as they have to coordinate and communicate with each other to accommodate the additional member.

Overall, the 11th man theory is seen as an essential component of military tactics and strategy, particularly in modern warfare, where unpredictable situations and asymmetric threats have become increasingly prevalent.