Which of the following is NOT considered a fundamental of defense?

The concept of defense in military operations is typically built around several key fundamentals that guide planning and execution. Among these, preparation, flexibility, and surprise are all essential elements.

Preparation involves organizing resources and planning tactics ahead of time to ensure a strong defensive posture. Flexibility is crucial for adapting to changing situations on the battlefield, allowing a unit to respond effectively to enemy actions. Surprise plays a significant role in defense by catching the enemy off guard, potentially allowing the defending force to gain the upper hand.

Maximum use of offensive action, however, does not align with the foundational principles of defense. While offensive actions can be part of a defense strategy, especially in counter-attacking, they are not considered a fundamental aspect of maintaining a defensive posture. Defensive operations primarily focus on holding ground and deterring or repelling enemy advances, rather than aggressively pursuing offensive maneuvers. Thus, this approach emphasizes stability and control rather than actively seeking out engagement, which clarifies why this choice is not considered a fundamental of defense.