What action is taken during a hasty ambush if the enemy is larger than the unit?

Withdrawing immediately during a hasty ambush when faced with a larger enemy force is a strategic decision to preserve the unit's combat effectiveness and personnel. In scenarios where an enemy is significantly more numerous, engaging them could lead to overwhelming losses or entrapment, compromising the safety of the unit.

The rationale behind this choice lies in the principles of force preservation and the need to maintain tactical advantage. A smaller unit risks annihilation in a direct confrontation with a larger enemy, so withdrawal allows for regrouping and possibly repositioning to a more favorable location where they can utilize their strengths, such as terrain, cover, or the element of surprise.

In contrast, initiating the ambush immediately would typically result in high casualties and a greater likelihood of mission failure, while continuing to engage the enemy without a sound tactical plan would expose the unit to unnecessary risks. Waiting for further instructions might delay critical decision-making; in a fast-paced combat scenario, acting decisively is often essential for survival.