Sun Tzu saw war as embedded in the full fabric of the world, and not a separate specialization of professionals. Without confidence in other states and the instruments of peacefare, no lasting peace can be concluded. In place of Heaven , I would consider science as a constant factor. Science can tell us the laws and processes which cause and will cause problems of security and peace. Global warming trends, for example, have the potential to upset global human society, with implications for peace and war.
Science can also provide solutions.
Earth , in its pingfa reading, refers to local and technological solutions to peace and security. Problems of disputes over East Coast cod in Canada, for example, will have very different solutions than West Coast salmon, and will require different mixtures of technology. Sun Tzu saw the commander as the leader of all armed forces, a man of virtue and intelligence who would direct a victorious war. He requires the justice and knowledge of the first three principles. Today, no such person exists who can meet our criteria, so a collective solution must be substituted.