(In the UK the equivalent manuals are classified, albeit at a low-level). It's a bit like knowing the general rules of chess vs. having a specific gambit for u

(In the UK the equivalent manuals are classified, albeit at a low-level). It's a bit like knowing the general rules of chess vs. having a specific gambit for use in a particular game. Some of the information in the manuals is common military knowledge, e.g. how convoys work, how to position forces making use of cover, etc. In effect the military laws-of-physics. What usually remains classified are the detailed Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTPs) associated with given weapon systems or specialist force elements. Also, plans for specific operations are usually 'born secret' and tend to remain classified as that would give away thinking.