What position is typically utilized to repel an enemy attack to your flank?

The supplementary position is utilized to repel an enemy attack to your flank because it is specifically designed to provide support to the primary defensive position. This approach allows a unit to have a secondary line of defense that can engage the enemy from a different angle, thereby enhancing the overall defensive posture. The supplementary position offers the advantage of surprise and allows for cross-fire upon the enemy, supporting the main defense while maintaining the capability to pivot and respond to threats.

In contrast, a forward position is generally the primary line of defense, focused on holding ground and engaging the enemy head-on. A fallback position is used when troops need to retreat to a more secure area, and an observation position primarily serves to gather intelligence rather than directly engage in combat. Thus, the supplementary position provides the most effective response to an enemy flanking maneuver, ensuring that the main defense is not easily overrun.