outpost

A detachment of troops stationed at a distance from a main force to guard against surprise attacks.

The station occupied by such troops.

A usually small military base established in another country.

An outlying settlement.

A post or station outside of the limits of a camp, or at a distance from the main body of an army: often used figuratively.

The soldier or soldiers placed at such post or station.

A post or station without the limits of a camp, or at a distance from the main body of an army, for observation of the enemy.

The troops placed at such a station.

A military post stationed at a distance from the main body of troops.