Which of the following is the second step in the Engagement Area Development process?

• A. Determine where to kill the enemy
• B. Identify likely avenues of approach
• C. Position subordinate forces and weapons systems
• D. Plan and integrate fires

Answer: (A)

The second step in the Engagement Area Development process is to identify likely avenues of approach. This step is essential because understanding how the enemy is likely to approach facilitates effective planning for engagement. By identifying these avenues, a commander can better position forces and weapons systems to maximize their effectiveness against an adversary.

Determining where to kill the enemy is crucial, but it comes after identifying potential routes the enemy might take. By first assessing avenues of approach, commanders can create a more informed plan for where and when to engage the enemy effectively. This foundational understanding is critical for subsequent steps where forces are positioned and fires are integrated to create a comprehensive engagement strategy.