noun
main body (of troops); main force
Refers to the principal unit or core group of a military or organized force, often contrasted with detached units (支隊).
See also: 支隊
本隊は夜明け前に出発した。
The main force departed before dawn.
支
The detachment rejoined the main body.
noun
this troop; these troops
Used within a military context to refer to one's own unit or the troops currently being discussed; not a general demonstrative.
本隊はただちに現地へ向かう。
This unit will head to the site immediately.