ADP 3-90 — Offense and Defense
Army Doctrine Publication 3-90 defines the tactics of offensive and defensive operations — the fundamental tasks, forms of maneuver, and principles that guide how Army forces close with and destroy the enemy or deny them their objectives.
Current edition: 31 July 2019
Questions are based on this version. If your copy shows a newer date, let us know — we'll update the question bank.
Art and science of tactics, four types of offensive operations (movement to contact, attack, exploitation, pursuit), four characteristics of the offense (audacity, concentration, surprise, tempo), three types of defensive operations (area defense, mobile defense, retrograde), three retrograde variations (delay, withdrawal, retirement), five forms of maneuver, seven steps of engagement area development, five kinds of battle positions, defeat mechanisms, and key control measures.
ADP 3-90 is tested at boards from SSG through CSM. Boards ask about the offensive and defensive tasks, forms of maneuver, and when each is used. Knowing the four characteristics of the offense, the seven steps of engagement area development, and the difference between a delay, withdrawal, and retirement demonstrates tactical competence that separates you from candidates who only know "attack and defend."
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