What is the purpose of a Turning Movement?

The purpose of a Turning Movement is to avoid current enemy positions by maneuvering around them, thereby creating opportunities to disrupt the enemy's stability and command. This tactic seeks to place friendly forces in a position to threaten the enemy's rear or flanks without facing them directly.

By conducting a Turning Movement, forces can bypass heavily defended areas or strongholds, allowing them to concentrate their efforts where the enemy is weakest or least prepared. This approach can force the enemy to react defensively, potentially causing confusion and disarray in their ranks.

In contrast, directly capturing enemy strongholds or engaging head-on does not align with the primary goal of a Turning Movement. Misleading the enemy, while a tactical consideration in some operations, is not the central focus of a Turning Movement, which emphasizes maneuver and surprise over direct engagement.