text: Chapter 6
  Figure 6-1. Example exploitation control measures
  PLANNING AN EXPLOITATION
  6-17. The commander’s ability to deny enemy forces flexibility by anticipating enemy counteractions is
  critical to a successful exploitation. Commanders arrange operations to deny enemy forces the ability to
  respond to attacks by disrupting the enemy’s decision cycles.
  6-18. Exploitation planning begins during the preparation phase of all offensive actions. To avoid losing
  critical time during the transition from a movement to contact or an attack to an exploitation, commanders
  tentatively identify forces, objectives, and assigned areas for subordinate units before the mission begins.
  The defeat of enemy forces and the seizure of objectives deny the enemy forces routes of escape, resulting
  in the encirclement of selected enemy forces and the destruction of enemy C2 nodes and sustainment
  facilities. BCT and higher echelon commanders initiate an exploitation as a branch or a sequel to their existing
  operations once they recognize that the opportunity to conduct an exploitation exists. Higher echelon
  commanders may direct that lower tactical commanders immediately exploit the successes of their units.
  6-19. Commanders plan for decentralized execution during the conduct of an exploitation. The commander’s
  intent prepares subordinates to exercise initiative throughout the operation. Commanders state the purpose
  of the exploitation, which may be to force the retrograde of enemy forces from an area, encircle enemy forces
  so they cannot withdraw, expand a lane or gap, attack along a flank, or destroy enemy artillery and other fire
  support systems. The intent must describe the desired end state. That intent also determines the force’s main
  and supporting efforts.
  6-20. A clear commander’s intent provides subordinates with guidance on integrating their operations into
  the overall operations of the higher echelon headquarters. Subordinates seize all opportunities to damage
  enemy forces or accelerate the tempo of friendly operations. Commanders place few restrictions on
  subordinates. These restrictions may include clear instructions regarding the seizure of key terrain and the
  bypass criteria for enemy forces. Reliable, secure communications among the exploiting force, the follow
  and support force, and the commander facilitates coordination that maximizes the impact of the exploitation.
  However, all subordinate commands use the higher commander’s intent to continue to the desired end state,
  even if they lose communications.
  6-21. During exploitation planning and execution, commanders balance the force conducting the
  exploitation’s need for speed and momentum against its need for security as it begins to move beyond