Which of the following is NOT included in the fundamentals of defense?

In the context of military fundamentals of defense, the chosen response, assessment, is indeed not typically categorized as a fundamental principle. The fundamentals of defense generally involve strategies and concepts that guide military units in establishing and maintaining a defense. These principles are focused on actions that enable effective protection against enemy forces.

Disruption refers to actions taken to disturb or interrupt the enemy's operations, which is a crucial defensive tactic. Flexibility emphasizes the ability to adapt to changing conditions on the battlefield, allowing for a dynamic response to threats. Maneuver involves the movement of forces to advantageous positions to enhance defensive capabilities or to exploit weaknesses in the enemy’s formation.

While assessment is critical in military operations for analyzing situations and making informed decisions, it is not categorized as one of the fundamental principles of defense in the same way that the other three concepts are. Instead, assessment serves as an overarching process that aids in the application of those fundamental principles rather than being a principle itself.