Why is maneuver considered important in defense?

Maneuver is essential in defense because it enables the defender to generate offensive power even while in a defensive posture. This ability to conduct offensive actions is crucial as it can disrupt the enemy's plans and gain the initiative, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the defensive operation. By maneuvering, defenders can exploit weaknesses in the enemy's attack, counterattack at opportune moments, and apply pressure from unexpected angles. This approach can maintain the element of surprise and potentially lead to a shift in the momentum of the engagement, allowing defenders not only to hold their ground but also to take the fight to the enemy when the conditions are favorable.

The other choices do provide some context on defense, but they do not encompass the critical element of offensive capability that maneuver brings to a defensive strategy. For instance, staying immobile can lead to vulnerabilities, concentrating forces without engaging does not capitalize on opportunities, and the assertion that this strategy is only beneficial for larger units overlooks the effectiveness that smaller, agile forces can also exhibit through maneuver.