asymmetric warfare

or asymmetrical warfare

noun

1. warfare in which opposing groups or nations have unequal military resources, and the weaker opponent uses unconventional weapons and tactics, as terrorism, to exploit the vulnerabilities of the enemy.

Word History and Origins

Origin of asymmetric warfare¹

First recorded in 1990–95

Example Sentences

I’m not saying that people aren’t working on voter protection, or that people aren’t filing lawsuits, but there’s definitely an asymmetric warfare here.

From Slate

Belligerents need to win the media battle in an age of asymmetric warfare where victory or defeat can rely on perceptions as much as the realities of battle.

From BBC

“The CCP’s vision for NeuroStrike encompasses a holistic approach, part of a broader asymmetric warfare strategy aimed at establishing a strategic edge over adversaries, particularly the United States and perceived rivals in the Indo-Pacific region, such as Taiwan, Japan, Australia, or India,” the report said, using the abbreviation for the Chinese Communist Party.

From Washington Times

The report said Taiwan’s ability to deter a mainland attack continues to erode, although Ukraine’s success in turning back the first waves of Russia’s invasion last year prompted Taipei to explore asymmetric warfare tools to counter growing PLA power.

From Washington Times

But Hamas have shown themselves capable of asymmetric warfare, of being able to make up for Israel's massive advantage in technology and firepower.

From BBC