Dominating the terrain

CONCEALMENT using the features of the ground or the cover of prevailing weather conditions can allow an army or fleet to attack from a new or unexpected direction. This tactic is as old as the hills that armies use to hide behind. The Duke of Wellington was a keen exponent of this tactic, using the lie of the land to protect his troops from French artillery by secreting them at the rear of hills. Despite advances in satellite observation and battlefield surveillance, terrain is still used today to gain an advantage over the enemy. Valleys afford a level of protection to gun batteries and infantry still prefer to use reverse slopes to “silhouette” an attacker so weapons can be used to maximum effect from high ground. Whatever terrain or environment can be found, it is clear that any operations of this kind require well-trained troops.