1. The spreading or separating of troops, materiel, establishments, or activities, which are usually concentrated in limited areas to reduce vulnerability. 2. In chemical and biological operations, the dissemination of agents in liquid or aerosol form. 3. In airdrop operations, the scatter of personnel and/or cargo on the drop zone. 4. In naval control of shipping, the reberthing of a ship in the periphery of the port area or in the vicinity of the port for its own protection to minimize the risk of damage from attack.