Anvil and hammer

An anvil and hammer attack fixes the enemy in place while a manoeuvre element strikes from a different direction.

One element applies sustained pressure to prevent the enemy from repositioning, while the second element manoeuvres to attack exposed flanks or rear areas. The enemy’s focus on the fixing force creates an opportunity for decisive manoeuvre.

Key characteristics of an anvil and hammer attack:

• One element fixes the enemy through pressure.
• One element manoeuvres to strike from an offset direction.
• Success depends on maintaining pressure until manoeuvre is complete.
• Manoeuvre is protected by the fixing element.

Anvil and hammer attacks are most effective when the fixing force can hold the enemy’s attention long enough for manoeuvre to succeed.