Which offensive task is aimed at pursuing and defeating an enemy in retreat?

The offensive task aimed at pursuing and defeating an enemy in retreat is known as pursuit. This type of operation focuses specifically on following an enemy force that is withdrawing from a position and engaging them to prevent their escape and further actions to regroup or reinforce. The primary goal of a pursuit is to destroy or capture the enemy before they can reorganize or reach a more defensible position. It is characterized by the need for speed and aggression, leveraging the momentum gained from the enemy's withdrawal.

Movement to contact involves advancing towards an enemy position to establish visual or contact with them but does not specifically target an enemy in retreat. Attack refers to a direct offensive operation intended to seize or destroy enemy forces at a defined location, while exploitation is an operation meant to capitalize on the initial success of a preceding attack, often seeking to expand the gains made without the immediate objective being an enemy in retreat.