Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of the offense?

The characteristic that is not associated with the offense is defense. In military operations, particularly when discussing offensive tactics, attributes such as audacity, concentration, and surprise are critical.

Audacity refers to the boldness and determination to take calculated risks, which is essential for successful offensive actions. Concentration involves pooling and focusing combat power against the enemy, allowing forces to overwhelm and exploit weaknesses effectively. Surprise is a key element that disrupts the enemy's plans and provides a significant advantage by catching them off guard.

In contrast, defense is fundamentally a different posture involving actions taken to protect and hold territory rather than seeking to engage and defeat the enemy actively. It emphasizes fortification and positioning rather than offense-driven principles. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for effectively executing military strategies and recognizing the varied roles of offense and defense in combat operations.