Objective Action Terms

Offensive objectives describe actions intended to defeat enemy forces or seize control of terrain or assets. These terms help clearly communicate the intended result of an attack.

Common offensive objective terms include:

• Clear
  Remove all enemy forces from an area or structure.
• Destroy
  Render an enemy force or asset permanently combat ineffective.
• Seize
  Take control of terrain or an objective by force.
• Capture
  Take possession of enemy personnel, equipment, or positions intact.
• Neutralise
  Render an enemy force or asset temporarily unable to interfere with operations.
• Suppress
  Reduce the effectiveness of enemy fire or observation.
• Raid
  Conduct a short duration attack to destroy, capture, or gather information before withdrawing.

Defensive objectives focus on protecting terrain, forces, or key assets while preventing enemy success.

Common defensive objective terms include: 

• Defend
  Prevent the enemy from seizing terrain or achieving their objective.
• Hold
  Maintain control of a position against enemy attack.
• Secure
  Ensure an area is safe from enemy interference after it has been cleared or before the enemy takes it.
• Protect
  Safeguard a specific force, asset, or location from enemy threats.
• Delay
  Slow enemy movement while trading space for time.
• Deny
  Prevent the enemy from using terrain, routes, or resources.
• Screen
  Provide early warning of enemy activity while avoiding decisive engagement.
• Guard
  Protect the main force by observing and reporting enemy activity while maintaining readiness to engage if necessary.

Patrol objectives focus on gathering information, maintaining presence, or assessing terrain and enemy activity without committing to major combat.

Common patrol objective terms include:

• Reconnoitre
  Gather detailed information about terrain, routes, or enemy activity.
• Observe
  Monitor an area or target and report activity over time.
• Investigate
  Approach and assess a specific point or report.
• Confirm
  Verify previously reported information or sightings.
• Locate
  Find and report the position of enemy forces or assets.
• Identify
  Determine the type, composition, or activity of a force or object.
• Track
  Follow signs of enemy movement to determine direction and intent.
• Assess
  Evaluate terrain, routes, or locations for suitability.
• Survey
  Conduct a detailed inspection of terrain, structures, or infrastructure.
• Mark
  Designate a location for navigation, targeting, or follow on forces.