3rd phase of manuver

Defensive


In the defensive an isolated squad will allow a small element to hold a weak, easily evacuated position behind a remote detonated mine, flanked by a machine gun. As the enemy advances, the small forward element will pull back. When its former position is overrun the mine will be detonated to distract the attackers, and then the machine gun will open fire on the attacker's flank. The machine gun will then switch to engage and suppress the tail of the enemy assault as the rest of the squad manoeuvres against its dislocated and exposed flanks which have been pulled forward from their defensive line to support the head of the assault. In the defensive a squad with a secure means of communication will fix the enemy in interlocked fields of fire and call in fire support from supporting units.