Which reconnaissance method is beneficial for quick surveillance from above?

Aerial reconnaissance is the most beneficial method for quick surveillance from above because it utilizes aircraft or drones to gather information over a wide area in a short amount of time. This aerial perspective allows for rapid assessment of terrain and enemy positions without the need for ground troops to physically traverse potentially dangerous environments. Aerial reconnaissance can cover extensive geographic areas and provide timely intelligence that is crucial for operational planning and decision-making.

In contrast, dismounted reconnaissance involves ground troops moving on foot to gather information, which, while thorough, is typically more time-consuming and exposes soldiers to greater risk. Reconnaissance by fire entails firing at suspected enemy positions to provoke a response, helping assess enemy strength and location, but it lacks the immediate visual surveillance capability. Mounted reconnaissance employs vehicles for information gathering, which is a faster option than dismounted reconnaissance, but it is still slower and more limited in visibility compared to aerial methods. Thus, while all methods have their tactical utility, aerial reconnaissance stands out as the preferred choice for quick data collection from above.