Define "maneuver warfare."

Maneuver warfare is characterized by its emphasis on speed and flexibility in operations. This approach seeks to outmaneuver the enemy, making their strengths irrelevant while exploiting their weaknesses. By utilizing rapid and agile movements, forces are able to create chaos and uncertainty in the enemy ranks, allowing for decisive and efficient engagements.

In maneuver warfare, forces prioritize agility and responsiveness over sheer firepower or static defenses. This can lead to the capability to adapt to changing battlefield conditions and take advantage of fleeting opportunities. For instance, quick movements and the ability to pivot operations can catch the enemy off guard, leading to breakthroughs that more traditional tactics might not achieve.

In contrast, focusing solely on overwhelming the enemy with firepower may lead to prolonged engagements that do not capitalize on dynamism, while staying in fortified positions reduces operational flexibility and responsiveness. Similarly, relying on air support as the primary strategy may not always address the complexities of ground operations, which are often addressed through maneuver tactics. Therefore, the essence of maneuver warfare lies in its speed and adaptability, which allow forces to dictate the terms of engagement and maintain the initiative.