What is a type of defensive operation that involves organized movement away from the enemy?

The correct choice is a type of defensive operation known as retrograde. This term specifically refers to a coordinated maneuver that involves the organized withdrawal of forces in order to maintain combat effectiveness while moving away from the enemy. Retrograde operations can serve multiple purposes, including withdrawing to a more advantageous position, regrouping, or avoiding engagement with superior enemy forces.

In contrast, a retreat typically implies a more disorganized and potentially panicked withdrawal, lacking the structure and planning characteristic of a retrograde operation. Recession is not a military term related to operations and generally refers to a decline or withdrawal from an economic or non-combat situation. Reconnoiter refers to the objective of gathering information about enemy forces or terrain, rather than a movement or withdrawal action.