This report describes an approach on how to model and optimize the allocation of a defending force with the objective to delay an attacker. Necessary parameters of the model are identified using the Swedish Armed Forces guide for ground combat and a basic model is defined. The basic model is based on a number of defending units which can be allocated to different defensive positions. The model is updated by assuming the effect of preparation time and the defenders effect on the attackers speed. The optimal solution is found by using an exhaustive search method. The optimal solution is compared to the solution of the approximate optimization method maximum marginal return to compare the optimal solution to a solution which is time effective but, depending on the model, might be suboptimal. In order to analyze the model and method the different objectives of the delaying force is noted and their respective effect on the optimal allocation is discussed.