4-3. A defensive operation is an operation to defeat an enemy attack, gain time, economize forces, and develop conditions favorable for offensive or stability operations (ADP 3-0). The inherent strengths of the defense are the defender’s ability to occupy positions before an attack and use the available time to improve those defenses. A defending force stops improving its defensive preparations only when it retrogrades or begins to engage enemy forces. Even during combat, a defending force takes the opportunities afforded by lulls in action to improve its positions and repair combat damage.