Which defensive principle mirrors offensive concentration by massing combat power at key times and places and involves pre-deploying forces to key points?

• A. Depth
• B. Consolidation
• C. Integration
• D. Flexibility

Answer: (B)

Consolidation focuses the defender's power where it matters most by pre-positioning forces to key points and then bringing mass to those decisive sectors as needed. This mirrors the idea of offensive concentration—creating a strong, unified striking presence at time and place where the defender expects to face the heaviest effort. By pre-deploying to fortified points and consolidating reserves, the defender can absorb pressure, maintain cohesion, and mount effective counterattacks from strong positions.

Depth spreads defense across multiple layers to slow and degrade an attacker, rather than concentrating at a single decisive point. Integration is about coordinating different arms and support elements for a unified effect, not specifically about massing forces at critical points. Flexibility emphasizes adaptability and shifting responses as the situation evolves, rather than fixed pre-deployment to key locations.