What is the goal of exploitation following a successful attack?

The goal of exploitation following a successful attack is primarily to disorganize the enemy in depth. When an attack is successful, it creates opportunities to capitalize on the enemy's vulnerabilities. Exploitation aims to maintain momentum by taking advantage of the chaos and confusion that often follow a successful breach or assault. This involves quickly moving to follow up on gains, disrupting the enemy's ability to reorganize and respond effectively.

By focusing on disorganizing the enemy in depth, a force seeks to further degrade the enemy’s command and control, logistics, and morale, ultimately preventing them from mounting an effective counter-offensive. This tactic can lead to a more decisive victory by preventing the enemy from regrouping and reinforcing their positions.

The other options, while relevant tactical considerations during operations, do not capture the essence of exploitation post-attack. For instance, reestablishing communications, securing terrain, and defending captured positions are important aspects of military operations, but they serve more to consolidate gains rather than take immediate advantage of the disorganized state of the enemy. Thus, the focus on thorough disruption and disarray aligns best with the defined goal of exploitation after an attack.