Farce. It looks like desperation, confusion, and impotence to me.
Example 1: Report of squad-sized element of Taliban maneuvering towards ANSF/ISAF outpost.
- Show of farce: Launch 120mm illumination rounds at two hour intervals throughout night.
- Outcome: Taliban know that the outpost has a mortar, hang back for a day, then attack the following night when the mortar is gone. Squad-sized element of Taliban remains undeterred, local ANSF demoralized.
Example 2: ISAF MRAP struck by IED when exfilling from overnight VPB. MRAP disabled, narrow road causes entire patrol to be immobilized.
- Show of farce: Launch one illumination round after 20 minutes of deliberation.
- Outcome: Taliban know that ISAF launches illumination rounds when they feel vulnerable and cannot find a target.
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