2-81. Forms of maneuver are distinct tactical combinations of fire and movement with a unique set of doctrinal characteristics that differ primarily in the relationship between the maneuvering force and the enemy. The Army has five forms of maneuver—envelopment, frontal assault, infiltration, penetration, and turning movement. Combined arms organizations accomplish their missions by identifying when and where to execute these forms of maneuver. Commanders generally choose one form on which to build a COA. A higher echelon commander rarely specifies the specific form of maneuver a subordinate executes. However, that higher echelon commander’s intent and guidance, along with the mission and any implied tasks, may impose constraints such as time, security, and direction of attack that narrow the forms of maneuver to one alternative. Additionally, the AO’s characteristics and the enemy force’s dispositions help commanders determine the form of maneuver. A single operation may contain several forms of maneuver. (See FM 3-90-1 for a discussion of these forms of maneuver.)