What is the goal of the pursuit phase in offensive operations?

The goal of the pursuit phase in offensive operations is to follow and disrupt a retreating enemy. This phase focuses on taking advantage of an enemy's withdrawal by maintaining pressure, preventing them from regrouping or reorganizing, and inflicting maximum damage as they retreat. This aggressive tactic leverages the momentum gained during previous phases of the operation, aiming to capitalize on enemy vulnerabilities and further enhance the offensive campaign.

In pursuit operations, forces are often deployed to close distances quickly, exploit gaps in the enemy's defenses, and target key units or leadership that may be attempting to withdraw. The idea is not only to disrupt their movement but also to deny the enemy the opportunity to recover, regroup, or resupply, which can significantly weaken their capacity to fight back in the future. This phase is critical for ensuring that the advantages gained from successful offensive maneuvers are fully exploited, thus maximizing the potential for a decisive victory.