What is Step 1 of the offense in military strategy?

Step 1 of the offense in military strategy is gaining and maintaining enemy contact. This is a critical first action because it allows the unit to understand the enemy's position, strength, and intentions. By establishing and maintaining contact, friendly forces can gather vital intelligence and make informed decisions about how to proceed with their offensive operations. This step is essential as it lays the groundwork for subsequent actions such as disrupting the enemy, fixing them in place, and executing follow-through maneuvers.

In offensive operations, knowing where the enemy is and how they are reacting is vital for success. This awareness enables units to exploit weaknesses and adjust tactics dynamically. Gaining and maintaining contact ensures that commanders have the information necessary to maneuver their forces effectively and achieve their objectives.