What is the primary function of active defense measures?

The primary function of active defense measures is to deny the initiative to the enemy. This concept revolves around the proactive steps taken to not only defend against enemy actions but also to disrupt their plans and operations. By implementing active defense measures, a force can maintain control over the battlefield, force the enemy to react to its own movements, and diminish the enemy's ability to execute offensive operations successfully.

Denying the initiative to the enemy can involve a range of tactics, including direct engagement with enemy forces, employing counterattacks, and utilizing intelligence to anticipate and thwart enemy maneuvers. The emphasis is on maintaining an assertive stance that can lead to a favorable outcome rather than passively waiting for an enemy to strike.

Strengthening defensive positions, deterring non-state actors, and increasing tactical mobility are significant aspects of military strategy, yet they do not encapsulate the primary objective of active defense measures, which fundamentally revolves around preventing the enemy from dictating the terms of engagement.