How does a squad use "deception" in combat?

In combat, a squad uses "deception" primarily by implementing misleading actions to confuse the enemy. This technique involves creating false impressions about a squad’s capabilities, intentions, or position, which can lead the enemy to make incorrect assessments or decisions. For instance, a squad may feign an attack in one location while planning a real attack elsewhere, diverting the enemy's attention and resources. This strategic misinformation helps to gain a tactical advantage.

The effectiveness of deception lies in its ability to manipulate the enemy's perception, causing them to miscalculate their response and potentially leading to openings that the squad can exploit. Misleading actions can include fake movements, using decoys, or employing smoke to obscure visibility, all of which are designed to create uncertainty and misdirection.

In contrast, creating confusion without a plan lacks the strategic element necessary for effective tactical deception. Minimizing noise and movement focuses more on stealth rather than on misleading the enemy's perceptions, and avoiding confrontation altogether does not employ deception but rather an attempt to escape or evade conflict. Thus, the most effective use of deception directly involves the art of misdirection and confusion through calculated actions.