Final answer:
An attack intended to inflict damage with the objective to seize or destroy a target in military tactics is known as an Assault. The act of moving around an enemy's side to avoid a frontal assault is called a flanking maneuver. It is a strategic way to exploit the vulnerabilities of the enemy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term that describes an attack intended to inflict damage to seize or destroy an objective in the field of military tactics or operations is Assault. In contrast, maneuvering around the side of an army rather than attacking directly from the front is called a flanking maneuver. This tactic is often used to gain a tactical advantage by attacking the enemy where they are least protected or expect an attack the least.
During the Vietnam War, the US troops' "search and destroy" missions were not flanking maneuvers but a means to seek out and destroy the Viet Cong and North Vietnamese forces along with their supply lines. The approach of flanking is also reflected in the teachings of Sun Tzu, who advocated for attacking what is weak and avoiding direct confrontation with enemy strengths. Therefore, flanking maneuvers are a strategic way to exploit the enemy's vulnerabilities.