Timing and distance are the keys to controlling the situation. To survive, the combat soldier must not allow the enemy to penetrate his sphere of defense. He must stay mentally alert and be aware of an all-round perimeter of defense. He must visualize the nine basic angles of attack . His best reaction to the enemy is to strike first or counterattack before the enemy has a chance to develop his offensive.
Surprise increases the chances of success.
The soldier must be physically mobile, react to the enemy's movement with the proper response, and counterattack according to the enemy's rhythm, timing, and distance. He must also control the tempo of the fight with consecutive and successful attacks, seizing the momentum and winning. When the enemy bridges the soldier's interval gap, the soldier must defend his personal perimeter. He has six options. This option calls for the soldier to disengage by increasing the separation and by staying out of range.