Forward Operating Bases are essential to providing support at the tactical and strategic levels of operation. However, as with many aspects of force deployment, FOBs must adapt to the new realities of increasingly volatile near-peer threats and the need for readiness. This calls us to rethink base deployment and operations. This article by defence journalist and author Tim Ripley explores the differences in the operating environment and the steps that must be taken to ensure FOBs remain relevant on the battlefield.