What is the role of enabling elements in tactical operations?

In tactical operations, enabling elements play a crucial role by supporting and facilitating the primary actions of combat forces. These elements do not engage the enemy directly or establish defensive positions themselves; instead, they enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the main forces by providing support functions such as logistics, intelligence, medical assistance, and communications.

By enabling the primary action, these elements ensure that combat units can perform their missions more successfully. This might include providing reconnaissance to inform strategic decisions, ensuring supply lines are secure and operational, or managing air support to facilitate ground attacks. In essence, the action of enabling makes it possible for the main forces to focus on their objectives without getting bogged down in the supporting tasks that are necessary for operational success.

This supportive and facilitative role is what distinguishes enabling elements from those tasked with direct combat actions or defensive responsibilities.