In offensive operations, what does 'supporting maneuver' involve?

Supporting maneuver in the context of offensive operations refers specifically to actions taken to effectively engage the enemy and facilitate the main attack. This involves suppressing the enemy's immediate objectives, thereby reducing their capacity to resist or respond effectively to the primary offensive efforts. When forces are focused on suppressing or neutralizing an enemy's capabilities at their objectives, it creates opportunities for the attacking units to advance and accomplish their mission with a reduced threat.

The focus of supporting maneuver is to enable the main attack by disrupting the enemy’s capacity to defend key areas. This involves coordination and integration of different assets and units to apply pressure on the enemy and lessen their operational effectiveness, allowing the offensive forces to maneuver more freely and decisively. Since this buffer against enemy action is crucial in creating a favorable environment for the main offensive, the action of suppressing the enemy’s immediate objectives is central to the concept of supporting maneuver in these operations.