According to Clausewitz, what is the primary objective of engagement in warfare?

Clausewitz emphasizes that the primary objective of engagement in warfare is the use of the engagement to attain the object of war. He argues that warfare is not an end in itself but a means to achieve political objectives. Engagements, therefore, serve a greater purpose; they are tools through which a nation seeks to achieve its strategic aims.

In this context, each engagement in battle is a step towards a larger objective, which may include the defeat of the enemy, securing territorial gains, or establishing influence. Engaging in combat must be aligned with the broader goals of the war, ensuring that each action taken is meaningful and contributes to the overall success of the mission.

Surprise tactics, building alliances, and evading confrontation may play roles in warfare but do not capture the essence of why engagements themselves are conducted. The focus is not solely on tactics or alliances but rather on how these engagements relate to achieving the strategic ends of war as defined by political considerations.