Countermantine

Countermantine refers to a specific historical military tactic. It involves a feigned retreat or a deliberate withdrawal by a military unit to draw the enemy into a vulnerable position. The objective is to create an opportunity for a surprise attack or to lure the pursuing enemy into an ambush. This maneuver requires precise timing and coordination among the retreating and attacking forces.

The effectiveness of countermantine relies on the enemy's eagerness to pursue and their lack of discipline in maintaining formation. A successful countermantine can lead to significant enemy casualties and a turning of the tide of battle. However, if the feigned retreat is detected or the subsequent ambush is poorly executed, the retreating unit itself can become vulnerable to destruction. Historically, various armies have employed variations of this tactic throughout different eras of warfare. Its success often depended on the skill of the commanders and the training of the soldiers involved. The term itself suggests a deceptive action intended to outmaneuver an opponent.