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Envelopment
military tactic of multiple attacks / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Envelopment is the military tactic of attacking the enemy's flank or rear.[1] This is done while keeping the enemy's attention focused on his front by the use of diversionary attacks.[1] The envelopment makes the enemy fight in a direction they are the least prepared for.[2] The maneuver requires a flank that can be attacked. Unlike a flanking maneuver, which uses the enemy's forward movement to create an attackable flank, envelopment depends on the enemy's defensive position, any obstacles and the terrain.[2] The envelopment has both advantages and disadvantages. Advantages include being able to capture or defeat all or part of an opposing army.[3] It offers less risk than other offensive maneuvers.[3] Disadvantages include the possibility of an enemy counterattack on the weakened center or on the other flank.[3]
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