What is the purpose of tactics in military operations?

The purpose of tactics in military operations is centered around practical strategies and maneuvers that ensure mission objectives are met effectively and efficiently. Mission planning and route selection are fundamental components of tactical operations because they involve making decisions on how best to deploy forces, utilize resources, and navigate the terrain to achieve goals while minimizing risks. Effective tactics enable military leaders to adapt to changing situations on the battlefield by considering the immediate environment, the capabilities and dispositions of both friendly and enemy forces, and the overall mission objectives.

In this context, the other options are focused on different aspects of military operations. Engaging in hand-to-hand combat, while a relevant skill, represents a specific combat scenario rather than the broader operational strategies that tactics encompass. Developing new weaponry pertains to technological advancements, which is more aligned with logistics and arms development rather than tactical execution. Similarly, training personnel is a crucial aspect of military preparedness but relates to the foundational capabilities of the forces rather than the immediate application of tactics during operations.