Which of the following are the five elements of combat power?

The correct answer identifies the five key elements of combat power, which are maneuver, firepower, protection, intelligence, and sustainment. Each element plays a critical role in the effectiveness of military operations.

Maneuver refers to the movement of forces to gain a favorable position over the enemy, allowing for tactical advantages in combat. Firepower encompasses the capability to deliver effective strikes against adversary forces, which is crucial for neutralizing threats. Protection involves measures taken to ensure the safety and survivability of personnel and equipment on the battlefield. Intelligence is vital for gathering and analyzing information about enemy positions and movements, allowing for informed decision-making and strategy development. Finally, sustainment ensures that forces are adequately supplied with the necessary resources such as food, ammunition, and equipment maintenance to maintain operational effectiveness.

The other options present elements that, while relevant to military operations, do not encompass the core components of combat power as defined in military doctrine. For example, strategy and tactics focus more on planning and execution than on the inherent capabilities needed for effective combat. Moreover, logistics and communication are essential for support operations but do not directly characterize the key combat power elements themselves. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for grasping the framework of combat power in military tactics.