2 
AUSTBIA. 
The principles are : utilisation of the ground and profitable employment of 
the fire-arm. 
The offensive must always be combined with the defence if a decisive success 
is aimed at. Field for fire, depth, freedom for movement must be taken into con¬ 
sideration in choosing a position. The strength employed must correspond to 
the object of the fight. A weak occupation at the commencement is faulty. 
Patrols are sent to the front to watch. The position is divided into sections, 
each with its own reserve. Some points are more important to occupy than 
others ; a uniform distribution of troops is incorrect. Independent points for 
defence receive special garrisons. 
A strong main reserve is posted behind one flank. Until the enemy’s intention 
is apparent the troops are held in readiness ; the protection being entrusted to 
patrols. Beconnoitring, measuring ranges, arranging cover, are to be taken in 
hand. The reserve is drawn forward near to the front line. As soon as the 
direction of the attack is known the position is strongly occupied. 
On the columns and guns fire is opened at long ranges ; on the most threaten¬ 
ing enemy at medium ranges ; at short ranges fire from all available troops. 
If a counter-attack is intended the main reserve may not be employed for any 
other purpose ; it must deploy quickly when the attacker has arrived at deciding 
distance, open on him a powerful flanking fire and then attack with the bayonet. 
Counter-attacks from the shooting line are to be avoided. 
If a counter-attack is not intended, the main reserve strengthens the shooting 
line or meets any flank attack. Pursuit is carried on by fire. 
FBENCH. 
The defence relies on fire and suitable employment of ground. Passive defence 
is absolutely rejected. Active defence turns to account the advantage of the 
choice of ground and the expectant attitude only as an increase of strength in 
order to beat the enemy in a known position more certainly and under more 
favourable circumstances. 
The Commander pays attention to the advantages for offence and defence, the 
line of defence, supporting points, flanks, communications to the front and in 
rear; points of assembly and line of retreat. According to their considerations 
follows the distribution of the sections to the lower commands and the construc¬ 
tion of defensive works. 
The lower leaders at once make themselves acquainted with the ground in 
front of them and the contiguous positions, find supporting points, ascertain 
ranges, and communicate them to those under their orders. The Commanders of 
the supports mark the lines of approach to the lines of defences. If the fight 
is not to commence at once, the Commander sends forward only enough men to 
watch and to carry out the defensive works. The remainder are held in readiness 
to advance in a protected position. The formation is generally the same as that 
for attack. The front to be held by a company is about 200 metres (220 yards) 
without uniform occupation being necessary. 
The choice of position for the supports depends on the probable fall of the 
enemy’s projectiles. If the ground allows, the depth of the formation is to be 
diminished. On the approach of the enemy the patrols report his strength, pro¬ 
ceedings, and direction of his attack ; their first resistance can compel him to 
deploy and reveal his intentions. On this the Commander comes to a decision. 
As soon as the attack is pronounced the position is occupied. 
Fire is opened as soon as it becomes effective. The intensity of the fire 
depends on the range and the importance of the target: the best shots fire on the 
hostile leaders. When the enemy approaches and his fire increases, the supports 
