What do the instruments of national power also refer to as?

The instruments of national power are often referred to as DIME-FIL, which stands for Diplomacy, Information, Military, and Economic, along with their respective functional categories: Financial, Intelligence, and Law Enforcement. This acronym encapsulates the various means through which a nation can exert influence and achieve its objectives on the global stage. Each component plays a vital role in formulating strategies that leverage a country's strengths while addressing challenges.

Diplomacy covers the non-violent means of influencing other countries through negotiations and alliances. Information encompasses the dissemination of ideas and the shaping of public perception. Military refers to the use of armed forces to protect national interests and respond to threats, while Economic focuses on utilizing economic tools, such as trade policies and sanctions, to achieve national goals.

The additional categories under FIL—Financial, Intelligence, and Law enforcement—further extend the scope of national power by addressing financial resources, intelligence operations, and enforcement mechanisms that support global and domestic stability. Understanding DIME-FIL is crucial for military strategists and policymakers in crafting comprehensive and effective national security strategies.