What is the primary goal of an attacking force in an envelopment maneuver?

The primary goal of an attacking force in an envelopment maneuver is to avoid the principal enemy defenses. This tactic involves moving around the enemy's flanks to disrupt their lines and ensure that they are attacked from the rear or the sides rather than head-on. By circumventing the strongest points of the enemy's defenses, the attacking force can create confusion, disorganization, and vulnerability within the enemy ranks. This maneuver aims to achieve a decisive advantage by targeting weaker positions and exploiting gaps in the defense, ultimately leading to encirclement or the ability to conduct a more effective attack on the enemy forces. Securing supply lines can be a secondary consideration as it may support the overall objective of the maneuver, but the primary focus remains on bypassing the enemy’s most fortified positions.