What is the critical purpose of maneuver warfare in LSCO?

Maneuver warfare in Large-Scale Combat Operations (LSCO) primarily focuses on achieving a critical advantage by disrupting and dislocating the enemy's strategic plans. This concept emphasizes speed, surprise, and adaptability in achieving operational and tactical objectives. By employing maneuver warfare, forces aim to create conditions that force the enemy to react rather than act, thereby undermining their ability to effectively coordinate and execute their strategies.

This approach often involves striking at the enemy's weak points and exploiting gaps in their defenses, which can lead to confusion and disorder within their ranks. By dislocating the enemy, friendly forces can seize the initiative and create opportunities for decisive action. Ultimately, this method is designed to achieve a swift and effective resolution to conflict, rather than focusing solely on inflicting casualties or sustaining long-term occupations, which can be counterproductive in achieving rapid victory.