What is the significance of “tempo” in military operations according to MCDP 1?

The significance of "tempo" in military operations, as described in MCDP 1, primarily revolves around its influence on the dynamics of combat and the adversary's capacity to effectively respond and adapt to ongoing maneuvers. Tempo refers to the speed and rhythm of military actions; a higher tempo can create a situation where the enemy is forced to react rather than plan or execute their own strategies. This places psychological and operational pressure on opponents, potentially leading to errors, confusion, and the inability to mount an effective defense or counter-offensive.

In emphasizing tempo, MCDP 1 highlights the need for forces to maintain momentum in operations to exploit opportunities and maintain the initiative. This concept is crucial in modern warfare where the ability to operate at a faster pace than the enemy can determine the outcome of engagements. Thus, the correct answer reflects an understanding of how controlling tempo directly affects the nature of warfare by disrupting adversary decision-making processes and operational tempo.