What should be the focus of a Retrograde operation?

The focus of a retrograde operation is to protect forces during withdrawal. This type of operation is executed under conditions where friendly forces are falling back from an area in anticipation of an enemy advance or to regroup. The primary objective is to ensure that the forces can withdraw safely and effectively while maintaining their combat capability and protecting the unit from being encircled or destroyed by the enemy.

During a retrograde operation, units must conduct continuous assessments of the situation and implement measures to delay the enemy's advance, making use of tactics such as establishing defensive positions, conducting counterstrikes, and employing deception to protect the withdrawing forces. This enables the unit to retreat in an organized manner rather than in panic, ensuring that personnel and equipment can be preserved for future engagements.

The other options, while relevant to various military operations, do not align with the core objective of a retrograde operation. For instance, maintaining territory is more pertinent to a defensive operation rather than a withdrawal. Similarly, maximizing offensive strikes and creating a defensive line may be part of a broader strategy but do not capture the essence of protecting forces specifically during a retrograde scenario.