What is the primary objective of a movement to contact?

The primary objective of a movement to contact is to develop the situation and establish contact with the enemy. This operation aims to gain information about the enemy's positions, capabilities, and intentions while simultaneously maneuvering to engage or avoid them as necessary.

By developing the situation, friendly forces can ascertain the tactical landscape, including the location of enemy units and terrain considerations. Establishing contact allows a unit to make informed decisions about subsequent operations, such as whether to launch an attack, conduct reconnaissance, or pull back. This proactive engagement is crucial for maintaining operational flexibility and ensuring that commanders can react effectively to emerging threats.