What should be a primary focus when planning an ambush?

When planning an ambush, ensuring the element of surprise and support is paramount. The fundamental objective of an ambush is to catch the enemy off-guard, allowing your forces to exploit their unpreparedness for maximum effectiveness. This surprise can lead to increased lethality and a higher likelihood of success with fewer casualties on your side.

Additionally, coordinating supporting elements, such as fire support and communication, is crucial. This support can enhance the ambush's effectiveness by providing cover and reinforcement, making it difficult for the enemy to react or counter. The synergy between surprise and support defines the ambush's success, allowing troops to engage effectively and withdraw without exposing themselves to counterattacks.

Other considerations like troop visibility, logistical support, and rapid movement are important in their own right, but they are secondary to the imperative of maintaining surprise and ensuring that support mechanisms are in place for effective operational execution.