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[Page 7]
Obstacles. V1
We need to obtain a definite control, both as regards direction & speed over the progressing troops advancing to the attack.
Their chief value lies in their power to deflect the attacking troops into areas most favourable for their destruction by the defenders.
They should be arranged 1. to break up the unity of action & cohesion of the attacking troops, 2. to deflect the parties thus isolated into the best swept fields of fire, 3. & to arrest them under the close fire of the defenders. Specially useful against night attacks.
To delay enemy under fire they should fulfill following conditions :- a. They should be under the close fire of the defending outer edge not more than 100 yds. from parapet.
They should be as wide as time & material will allow, should afford the enemy no cover & should be sheltered from his artillery fire. Their actual position will be determined by placing them where they are covered by most effective fire of defenders.
b. They should be difficult to surmount or remove, & will be most effective if special appliances, not usually carried by troops in the field are required for their removal. Special attention should be paid to their anchorages.
c. Should be so placed that their exact position, is unknown to the attackers & for this reason maybe, sunk: Conspicuously placed obstacles may betray an otherwise well concealed position.