Which joint force principle calls for striking the enemy unexpectedly to gain the initiative?

• A. Surprise
• B. Security
• C. Economy of Force
• D. Mass

Answer: (A)

The principle being tested is Surprise: striking the enemy when they do not expect it to seize the initiative and control the tempo of the fight. When an adversary is surprised, their decision cycle is disrupted, their situational awareness collapses, and they must react to unanticipated events, which gives your forces freedom of action and the opportunity to dictate the terms of the engagement. Security focuses on protecting your own forces and information, not on creating the unexpected attack that gains the initiative. Economy of Force is about using only what is necessary to achieve the objective, without waste. Mass concentrates combat power at a decisive place and time, but it’s the element of the unexpected strike to seize the initiative that defines Surprise.