Final answer:
The minimum action if you cannot perform a personal reconnaissance is to use alternative information-gathering methods such as relying on local guides, technology, and existing intelligence to ensure preparation for the area of operations. It is crucial to manage personal effects, practice proper hygiene, utilize necessary safety gear, and organize the right equipment and data collection systems. Strategic movement and supplies maintenance are vital for operational success.
Step-by-step explanation:
If there are factors preventing you from conducting a personal reconnaissance of your area of operations, the minimum action you must take is to employ alternative methods of gathering information to ensure adequate preparation and understanding of the environment. This includes utilizing local resources and intelligence, utilizing technology such as drones for 24-hour monitoring, and relying on existing sources of information. Non-reconnaissance methods of preparation and research are crucial when personal safety, logistics, or other factors limit on-the-ground surveys.
As a researcher or military leader in the field, you will likely need to make personal, social, and physical sacrifices for the success of the operation. It entails managing personal effects, avoiding attention by wearing nondescript clothes, maintaining personal hygiene, and ensuring safety gear is used following protocol. Organizationally, you must gather the right equipment and systems to efficiently collect and manage data.
Strategic considerations play a vital role, including understanding the commitment of forces and the analysis of one's own capabilities versus the enemy's (Carefully compare the opposing army with your own). Understanding the lay of the land, using local guides, and the strategic use of deception are mentioned as essential tactics (practice dissimulation). Planning and the strategic movement of resources are emphasized, along with the necessity of maintaining supplies and bases of support for your troops.
In summary, the core principle is readiness and adaptability. Utilizing common sense, factual information, and strategic analysis are fundamental when physical reconnaissance is not feasible. In any case, it is imperative that one takes at least minimal steps to understand the environment and potential adversaries or challenges before engaging in any operation or field research.