Final answer:
The objective of Offensive close combat is to impose the will of a combatant on the enemy while preventing the enemy from doing the same, using direct and indirect maneuvers to manage engagement and maintain the cohesion of the fighting force.
Step-by-step explanation:
The objective of Offensive close combat is to impose the will of a combatant onto the enemy, ensuring they cannot impose their will in return. This involves strategic maneuvers to either lure the enemy by providing apparent advantages or by causing damage that prevents the enemy from being able to effectively engage. In essence, offensive close combat aims to maintain the integrity of a fighting force while simultaneously disintegrating the enemy's ability to fight.
Through both direct and indirect maneuvers, combatants strive to keep their forces cohesive and unshaken, so they can sustain the enemy's attack. This is achieved by mastering the art of when to engage directly with the force and when to apply indirect strategies that could involve deception or surprise to optimize the combatant's advantage over the enemy.