RECONNAISSANCE ( Fr., recognition). The acquiring of information as to the strength and disposition of the enemy, features of ter rain, etc. The great prerequisite of successful strategy is the possession of accurate informa tion regarding the number, character, and ef festiveness of the enemy, together with a com plete knowledge of his position, disposition, and of the intervening terrain. The method of secur ing this information is ( I) by scouts; (2) by reconnoitring patrols; (3) by special recon naissance; (4) by reconnaissance in force; and (5) by topographical reconnaissance. Efficient scouting is more a necessity under modern con ditions than ever before, smokeless powder and magazine rifles combined rendering it almost an impossibility for the ordinary cavalry patrol, and occasionally for even the infantry patrol, to se cure information. The invisibility of the rifleman, and the difficulty of determining whether the firing is from a strong force firing individually or a small force using their magazines, make the employment of cavalry in a special recon naissance. which is usually designed to develop the enemy without risking a general engagement, an extremely hazardous undertaking. In a dif
ficult or broken country they come within the death zone before becoming aware of the presence or vicinity of an enemy. Under favorable condi tions, or against an inferior foe, the special reconnaissance is a very effective operation. A reconnaissance in force is almost invariably the precursor of a general engagement, all three branches of the service taking part in it. it is an operation designed to develop the enemy, compel ling him to disclose his disposition for defense or counter-attack, and if possible to betray any weakness there may be in his plans. On the devel opment of the reconnaissance will largely depend the nature and character of the attack, as well as the point and general direction of its delivery. A topographical reconnaissance is carried out by specially selected officers, with or without es corts, who map out the country over which an advance or attack may be made, having special reference to the immediate plans of the command ing general. For more detailed information re garding this branch, see ENGINEERING, MILITARY.