Which form of maneuver involves attacking the enemy’s flank?

The correct answer, envelopment, refers to a military maneuver that seeks to attack an enemy from the side or the flank rather than from the front. This strategy takes advantage of the enemy's vulnerabilities by circumventing their forward defenses, making it difficult for them to respond effectively. By striking from an unexpected angle, the attacking force can potentially encircle the enemy, leading to their isolation and disruption of their command and control.

In contrast, frontal assault involves a direct attack on the enemy’s position, which can result in high casualties due to the enemy's defenses. Infiltration focuses on penetrating the enemy lines to create confusion and disrupt operations, often through stealth rather than a direct confrontation. Penetration aims to break through the enemy's defensive lines at a specific point to exploit weaknesses, rather than attacking the flank.

Understanding these tactics is crucial for effective military planning and execution, as maneuvering to the enemy's flank can yield significant advantages in battle.