Which of the following is NOT a fundamental of MOPPP?

• A. Maintain Enemy Contact
• B. Maintain radio silence at all times
• C. Provide early warning
• D. Orient on the protected force, area, or facility to be secured

Answer: (B)

In MOPPP-focused protection, the emphasis is on maintaining awareness of threats, providing timely alerts, and keeping all actions centered on safeguarding the designated asset. Maintaining radio silence at all times is not a universal rule because effective protection relies on being able to transmit warnings, coordinate responses, and request support when needed. Silence can be used tactically, but ongoing, unconditional radio silence would impede critical communication and jeopardize safety.

Maintaining enemy contact is about keeping observation and awareness of potential threats so you know who or what is approaching and can react accordingly. This continuous contact informs decision-making and helps you anticipate moves before they threaten the protected force, area, or facility.

Providing early warning is essential because it gives you the opportunity to implement protective measures, relocate personnel, or initiate evacuation before a threat escalates. Without early warning, responses come too late to prevent harm.

Orienting on the protected force, area, or facility to be secured means all surveillance, patrols, and security actions are directed toward what you’re protecting. This alignment ensures resources, procedures, and responses are tailored to defend the specific asset and its critical points.

So, radio silence at all times isn’t a fundamental practice; targeted communication discipline supports timely warning and coordinated protection.