What is the purpose of defensive tasks conducted by commanders?

Defensive tasks conducted by commanders are primarily aimed at delaying, canalizing, and halting the attacker. This aspect of military strategy is crucial because it allows friendly forces to slow down or stop the advance of hostile forces, thereby protecting key assets and gaining time to reinforce positions or regroup.

When implementing a defensive task, commanders focus on using terrain to their advantage, which involves setting up obstacles and positioning troops to maximize their defensive capabilities. This strategy not only aims to inflict maximum damage on the attacking enemy but also seeks to manage the battlefield in such a way that the attacker is forced into disadvantageous positions. This approach is essential for preserving the integrity of friendly forces and maintaining operational continuity.

While maintaining contact with enemy forces, training new recruits, and gathering intelligence are valuable activities, they do not encompass the primary aim of a defensive task. The main goal is about slowing or stopping the enemy's momentum through deliberate operational maneuvers.