What is the term for an operation where a force moves through another force's combat positions to contact the enemy?

The term that accurately describes the operation where a force moves through another force's combat positions to contact the enemy is known as a "Passage of Lines." This operation typically involves one unit moving through the area of operations occupied by another unit, allowing the first unit to advance to a position where it can engage the enemy effectively.

This maneuver is critical in military operations as it facilitates coordination and integration between units, ensuring that the movement is done safely and effectively while maintaining the combat capabilities of both forces. The unit passing through may be in a different phase of engagement or pursuing a different tactical objective and must be able to navigate the combat positions of the other unit without disrupting ongoing operations.

In contrast, the other terms do not specifically describe the action of moving through another unit's positions. "Forward Passage of Lines" refers specifically to a situation where a maneuvering unit passes through a unit’s front lines to position itself for attacking the enemy. "Movement to Contact" signifies a force's effort to make contact with the enemy without indicating a passage through another unit's positions. "Position Exploitation" refers to the use of a position already secured for further offensive operations but does not involve moving through another unit's lines.