text: Chapter 7
  Forward Defense
  7-128. The intentof a forward defense (seefigure 7-12) isto prevent enemy penetration of the defense. A
  forward defense is the least preferred form of the area defense due to its lack of depth. The BCT commander
  deploys the majority of combat power into defensive positions near the forward edge of the battle area. The
  commander fights to retain the forward position and may conduct spoiling attacks or counterattacks against
  enemy penetrations,or destroys enemy forces in forward EAs. Often,counterattacks are planned forward of
  the forward edge of the battle areato defeat the enemy. Commanders may use reconnaissance and security
  forces to find the enemy in vulnerable situations and exploit the opportunity to conduct a spoiling attack to
  weaken the enemy’s main attacking force and to disrupt the enemy operation.
  7-129. The BCT commander uses a forward defense when a higher commander directs the commander to
  retain forward terrain for political,military,economic,and other reasons. Alternatively,a commander may
  choose to conduct a forward defense when the terrain in that part of the area of operations—including natural
  obstacles—favors the defending force because—
  (cid:122) Terrain forward in the area of operations favors the defense.
  (cid:122) Strong,existing natural or manmadeobstacles,such as a river or a canal,are located forward in
  the area of operations.
  (cid:122) Assigned area of operations lacks depth due to the location of the protected area.
  (cid:122) Natural EAs occur near the forward edge of the battle area.
  (cid:122) Cover and concealment in the rear portion of the area of operations is limited.
  (cid:122) Directedby higher headquarters to retain or initially control forward terrain.