Which of the following describes a spoiling attack?

A spoiling attack is characterized as a limited objective attack aimed at delaying or disrupting an enemy's ability to conduct an offensive operation. This type of attack is strategically implemented when an enemy is preparing to initiate an attack, allowing friendly forces to disrupt their plans and halt any momentum they may have been gaining. By executing a spoiling attack, units can exploit the enemy's weaknesses, causing confusion and contributing to a delay in their operational timetable, which can be critical in maintaining the initiative in a conflict.

The focus of a spoiling attack is not to achieve broad territorial gains but rather to hinder the enemy's capabilities at a precise moment, thus ensuring the attacking force maintains an advantageous position. This tactic is distinct from other options that describe different objectives and methods of engagement, such as surprise attacks, maneuvers meant for deeper penetrations into enemy territory, or limited attacks aimed purely at intelligence gathering. Each of those scenarios serves different purposes and contexts on the battlefield compared to the primary intent of a spoiling attack.