What is the primary determining factor in the selection of the mode of terrain flight?

The primary determining factor in the selection of the mode of terrain flight is the enemy. Understanding the enemy's positioning, capabilities, and potential to engage is crucial for mission planning. This insight shapes the decision on how to maneuver through or over terrain, which can be vital for avoiding detection and ensuring mission success. Adapting flight paths based on enemy presence helps in maximizing safety and effectiveness during operations.

Although weather conditions, terrain features, and aircraft capabilities are significant considerations in terrain flight, they serve as secondary factors. Weather can affect visibility and performance, terrain features dictate possible flight paths and obstacles, and aircraft capabilities relate to their ability to perform specific maneuvers. However, the primary concern remains the enemy's actions and disposition since they directly impact the threat level and operational choices.