Centralized Planning – The delay is a complex operation involving many moving pieces to set the conditions for success. With this the case, a centralized plan must be developed to minimize at least some of the obvious chaos. The use of combat multipliers is critical to success in the delay. Centralized planning greatly assists in synchronizing all these assets.

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Decentralized Execution – The execution of a delay is no time for micro-management. Split-second decisions are the norm during the conduct of a delay. You can not wait on your higher headquarters approval before making these timely decisions. Once the plan is developed; let the subordinates execute it!

Terrain is Crucial – In any operation, terrain certainly has a great influence on the outcome of any battle. Clearly, during the execution of a delay; terrain has a tremendous impact. Within the delay, the key terrain is that which controls enemy and friendly avenues of approach. Delay positions should be established on these locations.

Make the Enemy React to You – Although it is difficult due to the circumstances; you must ensure your opponent does not dictate all the action. You must utilize fire and maneuver to slow his actions. Slowing his actions sets the stage for you to exchange space for time. Timely indirect fire coupled with well-placed obstacles can physically and mentally slow down your enemy. Undoubtedly, physically slowing him down is good! However, if you can mentally slow him down; then you are well on your way to achieving success in the delay. Actions that make the enemy wonder what you are trying to do slow down his decision process and make him more tentative. A tentative enemy is much more cautious in action. This translates to gaining you time.

Obstacles are Good! Well-placed, Timely Obstacles are Better!! – One of the key ways you can slow down your foe is with obstacles. As we have discussed in earlier articles, you have many options in obstacle emplacement. These options include types of obstacles and the way obstacles can be emplaced. With time at a premium, the use of scatterable mines in a delay can be a true difference maker. However, the use of scatterable mines does come with associated risks. Since these types of mines are normally delivered by air assets or field artillery tubes, there is significant coordination that must take place before execution. The importance of this coordination is compounded by the fact that there is little separation between forces in this environment.

Maintain Contact with the Enemy – To succeed in a delay, you must know where the enemy is at all times. On this very dynamic battlefield; that can truly be a challenge. It is possible elements of the enemy can ‘get lost’ and the next report you receive is that enemy forces are attacking your flank or in your rear area. You must have continuous eyes on your opponent. These eyes can be of the human or technological variety or preferable both. Whatever the case, there can be no surprises.

Flank Coordination – As related above, a unit is highly vulnerable on its’ flanks during the execution of a delay. The terrain in between adjacent units conducting a delay is highly valued by the enemy. Once the enemy finds a gap, the results are not favorable for the friendly force. Consequently, coordination between adjacent units is at a premium. Flank coordination can be facilitated by a higher headquarter’s establishing coordination and contact points on graphics and orders. This ensures physical communication between units.

Avoiding Decisive Engagement – The ultimate failing in a delay is for a unit to have elements become decisively engaged with the enemy. Once this occurs, your ability to trade space for time is greatly diminished.

What can a Commander do if part of his unit becomes decisively engaged? This is truly one of the more difficult decisions a Commander will make on the battlefield. The Commander must make a quick decision, which weighs the potential outcomes of the actions he may take. In terms of these actions, here are some possibilities:

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