What are the fundamentals of defense?

The fundamentals of defense are crucial concepts that guide military operations when preparing to protect and hold territory against an adversary. The concepts of disruption, flexibility, maneuver, mass, and concentrate are foundational principles in defensive operations.

Disruption refers to the ability to interrupt or interfere with an enemy's plans, thereby preventing them from effectively executing their strategy. Flexibility allows a defensive force to adjust its tactics in response to changes on the battlefield. Maneuver involves repositioning forces to adapt to enemy actions or exploit weaknesses, enhancing defense effectiveness. Mass is about concentrating combat power at decisive points to overwhelm the enemy. Concentration serves to focus resources and efforts where they can achieve the greatest impact.

These principles are essential because they ensure that defensive operations not only aim to withstand an attack but also to create opportunities to counterattack and regain the initiative.