Which characteristic of the offense entails maintaining initiative against the enemy?

The characteristic of maintaining initiative against the enemy is closely associated with tempo. Tempo refers to the speed and rhythm at which military operations are conducted. When a force is able to dictate the tempo of operations, it can impose its will on the enemy, maneuvering rapidly to exploit weaknesses and respond effectively to any enemy actions. This ability to maintain a fast pace allows for continuous pressure on the adversary, keeping them off balance and unable to react effectively.

In the context of military strategy, maintaining tempo can lead to seizing the initiative, forcing the enemy to respond defensively rather than offensively. By controlling the pace of engagements, forces can disrupt enemy plans, exploit opportunities for attack, and keep their own forces in a position of advantage. This characteristic is crucial for successful offensive operations and plays a significant role in overall mission success.