EXTENDED ORDER, a formation in which the men - posing a body of troops, and the various smaller component units, are opened out with intervals between them, so as to afford a more difficult target and minimize the effects of enemy rifle or shell fire. The power of modern weapons is such that all movements on the battlefield within sight or range of an enemy must of necessity be carried out in extended order, if heavy casualties are not to be incurred and further progress to become impossible. (See further INFANTRY.)