What principle of ambush emphasizes the importance of being unexpected?

The principle of ambush that emphasizes the importance of being unexpected is surprise. In military tactics, particularly in ambush situations, achieving surprise means catching the enemy off guard, which can significantly enhance the effectiveness of the attack. When an ambush is executed with an element of surprise, it can create confusion and disarray within the enemy ranks, leading to greater chances of success.

Surprise can be achieved through various means, including choosing the right location, timing the attack perfectly, and using deception to mislead the enemy about the unit's intentions. By being unexpected, the ambushing forces can often strike with greater impact and achieve their objectives before the enemy can react effectively.

The other principles, while important in their own right, do not focus specifically on the element of being unexpected. For instance, speed emphasizes how quickly forces can execute their plans, violence of action refers to the intensity and decisiveness with which attacks are carried out, and cooperation highlights the need for different units to work together harmoniously. However, none capture the specific tactical advantage gained through the element of surprise like this principle does.