Mobilisation

Mobilisation: The process by which an army or navy is converted from a peace to a war footing. The visible sign of mobilisation is the calling out of reservists. A well organised force is always ready for rapid mobilisation, and not only has the means at hand of summoning men to their regiments or ships, but provides for them clothing, feeding, etc. Mobilisation also includes the carrying out of definite plans relating to the disposition of men and ships all carefully thought out in advance.

Partial mobilisations, conducted under another guise, are often conducted in times of peace; but complete mobilisation is directly connected with war. The mobilisation of Russian troops was the nominal cause of Germany declaring war against Russia.