Which characteristic defines a successful offensive operation?

A successful offensive operation is fundamentally defined by the concentration of forces. This characteristic emphasizes the importance of massing combat power at the decisive point to achieve a breakthrough against the enemy. The idea is to bring together the necessary elements—be it personnel, equipment, or firepower—to overwhelm the opposition at critical moments and locations during the operation.

Concentration of forces allows commanders to leverage their strengths while minimizing exposure to enemy strengths, thus increasing the likelihood of success. This strategic focus enables the effective application of overwhelming firepower and maneuver, enhancing the operation's effectiveness.

Other characteristics such as flexibility, stealth, and resource utilization play vital roles in an operation's overall success. However, without the concentration of forces, these other aspects may not have the same impact. Flexibility is essential for adapting to changing conditions, stealth may help in achieving surprise or minimizing detection, and effective resource utilization ensures operational sustainability. Nonetheless, it's the concentration of forces that serves as a foundation for executing successful offensive maneuvers.