A military operation involves deception. Even though you are competent, appear to be incompetent. Though effective, appear to be ineffective.

War is based on deception.

All warfare is based on deception. Hence, when able to attack, we must seem unable; when using our forces, we must seem inactive; when we are near, we must make the enemy believe we are far away; when far away, we must make him believe we are near.

All war is deception.

Appear weak when you are strong, and strong when you are weak.

So the important thing in a military operation is victory, not persistence.