During WW2 a network of trenches and ringstands could form a complex and effective defensive line. Trenches were used as firing positions or to connect between shelters, gun-emplacements, tobruks and observation posts within a strong point.

During WW1 several trenches were run in parallel. From the frontline trench to the support trench and behind that the reserve trench. Troops would rotate out from the frontline and spend time in reserve. Communication trenches ran at approximately right angles to these trenches to connect up the whole system. Initially during WW1, warfare was mobile but as each side prepared defensive positions to protect their flanks, fighting became more static. As each side constructed their trenches they extended further and further to the sides. However, once these systems extended as far as the Alps and the English Channel, fighting became static. This stalemate did not begin to break until the invention of the tank by British forces.

These trenches are also particularly suitable for Warhammer 40k.

Many of these terrain models are also suitable for 1/48 scale model dioramas.