What is the purpose of a Delay operation?

The purpose of a Delay operation is fundamentally to slow down enemy momentum. In military strategy, when a force carries out a Delay operation, it aims to disrupt the timing and pace of an adversary's advance. This tactic can be critical in buying time for friendly forces to reposition, fortify their defenses, or prepare for a counteroffensive.

By intentionally slowing down the enemy's movement, forces can prevent them from achieving their objectives effectively, allowing additional time to strengthen positions or to conduct other strategic maneuvers. This operation can also create conditions for establishing stronger defenses or preparing for reinforcements, allowing for more organized resistance against the advancing enemy.

In contrast, advancing territory quickly, reinforcing friendly units, or regrouping and reinforcing supplies are objectives that do not align with the primary intent of a Delay operation, but rather represent proactive strategies under different operational circumstances.