What principle of joint operations focuses on maintaining advantage through unexpected moves?

The principle of joint operations that focuses on maintaining advantage through unexpected moves is surprise. This principle emphasizes the importance of acting in ways that catch an adversary off guard, thereby maximizing the effectiveness of military actions. By utilizing surprise, forces can exploit vulnerabilities, disrupt an opponent’s plans, and achieve objectives with greater efficiency. Surprise can manifest through various means, including unexpected timing, location, or methods of attack, which can lead to a significant psychological impact on the enemy.

In military strategy, achieving surprise often facilitates quicker victories with potentially lower costs in terms of resources and risks involved. It plays a crucial role in campaign planning and execution, as it can shift the balance of power in favor of the attacking force, creating opportunities for decisive engagements. This principle underscores the significance of innovation and adaptability in tactical planning to keep adversarial forces uncertain and reactive.