rear echelon

noun

: an element of a military headquarters or unit located at a considerable distance from the front and concerned especially with administrative and supply duties

Examples of rear echelon in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

That weapon enables the Ukrainians to attack deep into Russia’s rear echelon and destroy its ammunition depots, bases and other infrastructure, forcing the Russians to stretch their supply lines and hold reserve troops farther from the front. —Peter Champelli, WSJ, 2 Mar. 2023

Ukrainian military officials have also discussed with American officials the importance of increasing pressure on Russia’s rear echelon in Crimea, which supports military operations elsewhere in Ukraine. —Julian E. Barnes, New York Times, 18 Jan. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1934, in the meaning defined above