Introduction to Basic Army Tactics (cont.)
DEFENSIVE STRATEGIES AND TACTICS
Refused Flank
This is a bastion form of tactic. Bastion tactics are tactics that are last hope tactics, or are tactics in which the troops have to hold their ground to protect something, or someone. The flank is usually the least defended section of your position, because troops are required in the center to protect major installations, or command staff. The flanks are usually guarded by light infantry, who can travel fast, so that if there is a flanking attack, they can fall back quickly, and often with few losses. However, this is not a strong defense, and would shatter if it were ordered to hold. However, in most cases, the inner troops will be strong enough to repel the attack, or they will be able to retreat away from the attack.
But, a refused flank has different circumstances to the normal flank. A refused flank is a supremely strengthened flank, used to repel enemy attacks. The circumstances in which refused flank is used make this tactic a bastion tactic. A refused flank is used when there is an obstacle between you and retreat (A mountain, lake or other large impassable landmark). It can accurately be called a “last stand tactic.”
The elements of a refused flank are simple. If you find that your army in the predicament described above, the first actions that must be taken is recon. Recon will allow you to find how close you enemy is, and if there is any chance of escape before the enemy arrives. If both of these variables are against you, your only option is a refused flank. The refused flank has three sections to it:
Outer Defenses: These are the front-line defenders, and should be equipped with heavy weapons, in case of enemy vehicles.
Inner Defense: This is made up of any vehicles and other infantry units that are not on the front line. This will be the reserves for the front line and be fire assistance if required.
Command and Aerial Defenses: This section is vital to this tactic. Command staffers will need to find a way to get out of this tactic, so that they wouldn’t be slaughtered. Also, Aerial defenses are needed, because an unmoving target is easy to attack from the air.
But remember, no matter now strong your army is, or how good it’s commanders are, a refused flank is not a good place to be in. Often the only means by which an army can get out of a situation like that, is by using a break out move.
Breakout
Breakouts are when you need to escape, and the only way you can do this is to attack the enemy and make a gap through their defenses. This is achieved by the following:
Recon: Recon must be used to probe the defenses of the enemy, finding any and all weak points that could be exploited in a break out. Good recon is crucial to the effectiveness of the breakout.
Planning: You need to carefully devise a plan so that minimum losses are sustained during the breakout, and so that the breakout is effective.
Powerful thrust and execution: This is where the attack is made at the weakest section of the enemies defenses, and forces its way out of the refused flank. This is usually fast, and powerful, but heavy losses are sustained.
--Originally compiled by Generals Munro Burton and Kyros Terrian
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