Crossword Genius

Chief component of direction that supports aggressive campaign (3,5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

war chest

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'chief component of direction that supports aggressive campaign' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I cannot understand how one could define the other.

'chief component of direction' is the wordplay.
'chief' becomes 'arch' (synonyms).
'component of' is an insertion indicator.
'direction' becomes 'west' (compass direction).
'arch' put within 'west' is 'WAR-CHEST'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for war chest that I've seen before include "hypothecated funds" , "Fighting fund" , "ready for fighting?" , "funds for action?" , "Funds set aside" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.
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