Defilade

Defilade is a military term describing the use of terrain or artificial obstacles to shield soldiers or military assets from enemy observation or fire. It is a fundamental concept in battlefield tactics, aiming to minimize exposure and vulnerability. By positioning oneself or equipment behind an object that intercepts incoming projectiles or blocks line of sight, a person or vehicle can achieve a state of defilade.

There are two main types of defilade: frontal and lateral. Frontal defilade occurs when the protective feature is directly in front of the target, blocking direct fire. Lateral defilade involves protection from fire coming from the flanks or sides. The degree of defilade is often described as "partial" or "complete," indicating the extent to which the target is concealed.

Natural features like hills, depressions, gullies, and dense vegetation can provide defilade. Man-made structures such as buildings, walls, trenches, and even the curvature of the earth can also be utilized. Effective use of defilade requires careful assessment of the terrain and the likely direction of enemy fire. Soldiers are trained to identify and utilize defiladed positions to enhance their survivability and operational effectiveness. The principle of defilade is also applied to protecting vehicles and equipment, ensuring they are not easily targeted by enemy forces.