So yeah, the “out” and “back” parts are important: if a unit is attaching while maneuvering in the field, it’s not a “sortie”. That’s also why it’s common in aviation, since airplanes inherently require a home runway that every attack begins and (ideally) ends at.
Aviation term for an air attack. Out, hit, back.
I think it’s also general military. A squad can sortie out to accomplish an objective.
From the French sortir, “to go out”.
So yeah, the “out” and “back” parts are important: if a unit is attaching while maneuvering in the field, it’s not a “sortie”. That’s also why it’s common in aviation, since airplanes inherently require a home runway that every attack begins and (ideally) ends at.
Jesus, I know French but i didn’t connect the term to the language! 🤣