What is a common characteristic of a patrol in the engagement phase?

In the engagement phase of a patrol, establishing fire superiority is a critical characteristic. Fire superiority refers to the ability to deliver more effective or accurate fire on the enemy than they can deliver on your own forces. This is essential during engagements as it allows friendly forces to control the battlefield, minimizing casualties and maintaining initiative.

When a patrol engages the enemy, gaining fire superiority helps to disorient and suppress enemy forces, providing a tactical advantage. It can enable the patrol to maneuver more effectively and either eliminate threats or break contact to regroup or reposition as needed.

Other aspects of a patrol, like finalizing objectives or maintaining a low profile, are important in different phases of operations but are not as directly tied to the immediate needs of engaging the enemy. Delaying the assessment of the enemy could hinder the patrol's ability to adapt and respond effectively in a dynamic situation, rather than fostering the conditions necessary for successful engagement. Thus, establishing fire superiority stands out as a fundamental characteristic in this phase.