4-23. Commanders assign subordinates to battle positions in situations when friendly forces need to retain a greater degree of control than that provided through only using an AO. This greater degree of control occurs because a commander controls maneuver outside the general location of the battle position. Multiple battle positions may be assigned to a single unit, which allows that unit to maneuver between battle positions. Commanders specify mission and engagement criteria to the unit assigned to a battle position. Security, supporting artillery, and sustainment forces typically operate outside a unit’s battle position. Units occupying a battle position do not automatically have all the doctrinal responsibilities associated with being assigned an AO.