Which is the correct expansion of SOSRA?

• A. Suppress, Observe, Secure, Reduce, and Assault
• B. Suppress, Obscure, Shield, Reduce, and Assault
• C. Suppress, Obscure, Secure, Refine, and Assault
• D. Suppress, Obscure, Secure, Reduce, and Assault

Answer: (D)

SOSRA is a five-step assault sequence used to plan and execute taking an objective. The idea is to methodically shape the fight: first suppress enemy fire to allow your team to move, then obscure the area so the enemy can’t see or track your approach, then secure the objective area to prevent counterattacks, next reduce the defenders within or around the objective, and finally assault to seize and hold the position.

Obscure is the right term because concealment and breaking the enemy’s line of sight are essential before pressing forward. Observing or seeking information isn’t the focus here; this is about making the attack easier and safer by hiding your movement. Secure follows to establish a safe perimeter or foothold, reducing distractions from nearby threats. Reduce targets the defenders themselves, thinning their numbers or effectiveness before the assault. And assault is the culmination—moving in to take control.

So the sequence with concealment (obscure) and the progression from suppression to secure, reduce, and finally assault best captures how this tactic is applied.