What is the main purpose of the deception force in BDE defense?

The primary purpose of the deception force in Brigade (BDE) defense is to replicate subordinate tactical groups and detached command structures. This tactic is crucial in a military context as it creates an illusion for the enemy, making them believe that there are operational assets or formations present when in reality, they may not be. This might mislead the enemy about the strengths and weaknesses of the defending force, causing them to misallocate their resources or make strategic decisions based on incorrect information.

By duplicating the appearance of tactical groups and command structures, the deception force plays a critical role in shaping the enemy’s perception of the battlefield. This, in turn, allows the actual forces to maneuver and operate with greater freedom and can protect key assets or facilitate surprise attacks.

Understanding this concept is vital for battlefield strategy as it underlines the importance of psychological operations and misinformation as tools of warfare, which can significantly impact the outcome of engagements without direct confrontation.