In tactical operations, what does the term "retaining" refer to?

The term "retaining" in tactical operations specifically refers to ensuring that friendly-held areas remain protected from enemy occupation. This concept involves not just holding onto territory, but also actively defending those areas against potential infiltrations or attacks by enemy forces. The objective is to prevent the enemy from gaining a foothold in locations that are critical for operational success, maintaining the integrity of the territory under friendly control. This focus on defense is crucial in preserving strategic advantages in the area of operations and ensuring that troops can operate effectively without the threat of losing ground to the adversary.