war footing

the condition or status of a military force or other organization when operating under a state of war or as if a state of war existed.

Origin of war footing

First recorded in 1890–95

Kept virtually on a war-footing since 1912, the Greeks kicked over the traces.

The New World of Islam |Lothrop Stoddard
By the middle of November the Scotch army was thoroughly remodelled and placed on its war-footing.

Monk |Julian Corbett
One and a half enemy corps had invaded Upper Alsace before our troops could be collected and placed on a war-footing.

What Germany Thinks |Thomas F. A. Smith
During a period of thirty years the South was gradually assuming a war-footing.

The Seventh Regiment |George L. Wood

With this increase, and the aid of our reserves, and our brave auxiliaries, our army will be placed on a war-footing.

The Life of a Celebrated Buccaneer |Richard Clynton