text: Chapter 10
  Figure 10-4. Mobile defense before commitment of striking force
  FINISH THE ENEMY
  10-32. Commanders’ situational understanding is critical in establishing the conditions that initiate the
  striking force’s movement and in determining the general area that serves as a focus for the counterattack.
  Situational understanding includes identifying those points in time and maneuver space where the
  counterattack proves decisive. The unit staff synchronizes the unit’s activities in time and maneuver space to
  mass the effects of the striking force at the right time and place by establishing decision points.
  10-33. The actions of the striking force are the echelon’s main effort on its commitment. Information
  collection assets focus on tracking the enemy force’s advance. The striking force commander continuously
  receives intelligence and information updates that allow that commander to adjust the counterattack to defeat
  the enemy. Once the enemy starts its attack, any forward-deployed elements of the striking force withdraw
  to assembly areas or attack positions and prepare for their commitment.
  10-34. The defending commander launches the striking force in a counterattack when its offensive power
  is greater than the targeted attacking enemy force. Piecemeal commitment of the striking force in support of
  local objectives jeopardizes the success of the overall operation. The striking force must execute the
  counterattack rapidly and violently, employing all combat power necessary to ensure success. The striking
  force may be committed at a different time and area than anticipated. Thus, it must be able to respond to
  unexpected developments rapidly and decisively. Figure 10-5 depicts a mobile defense after commitment of
  a striking force.
  10-35. Because the striking force normally attacks a moving enemy force, it generally assumes a formation
  with a covering force, an advance guard, a main body, and either a follow and support or a follow and assume
  force. The strike force commander designates flank responsibilities and may even allocate a force against a
  particularly vulnerable flank. The striking force takes advantage of obstacles, such as rivers or obstacle zones,
  to prevent the enemy from counterattacking the strike force. However, the striking force moves quickly and
  mitigates risk to its flanks, using speed and situational understanding to provide security.