Which of the following is NOT one of the Seven Fundamentals of Reconnaissance?

The correct response indicates that conducting reconnaissance during combat only is not one of the Seven Fundamentals of Reconnaissance. The essence of reconnaissance is to gather information continuously, which includes both before and during operations. It is crucial to collect and analyze intelligence proactively to inform decision-makers, allowing them to understand the operational environment fully.

The fundamental principle emphasizes the importance of ongoing reconnaissance efforts to adapt to changing conditions and threats, not limiting these activities solely to combat situations. This approach ensures that commanders have timely information that can influence their decisions, even in the planning stages or during periods of relative calm.

The other fundamentals—reporting information rapidly and accurately, gaining and maintaining enemy contact, and ensuring continuous reconnaissance—highlight crucial elements that contribute to the effectiveness and efficiency of reconnaissance operations, underlining the need for a continuous flow of reliable intelligence regardless of whether combat is actively occurring.