6-182. The fixing force turns, blocks, and delays the attacking enemy force. The commander organizes it with the minimum combat power needed to accomplish its mission. It tries to shape the enemy penetration or contain the enemy’s advance. Typically, it has most of the countermobility assets of the defending unit. The fixing force may conduct defensive actions over considerable depth within the MBA. However, it must be prepared to stop and hold terrain on short notice to assist the striking force on its commitment. The operations of the fixing force establish the conditions for a decisive attack by the striking force at a favorable tactical location. The fixing force executes its portion of the battle essentially as a combination of an area defense and a delaying action. The actions of the fixing force are shaping operations.