outposts
nounUK /ˈaʊtpəʊsts/
US /ˈaʊtpoʊsts/
Small places far away where people stay to watch and guard an area.
The soldiers built three outposts along the mountain trail.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. Small settlements or trading posts in a distant place.
Traders stopped at remote outposts to buy furs.
3. Distant branches or small offices of a larger organization.
The company opened outposts in several small towns.
4. Forward positions set up away from a main group.
The explorers set up outposts before crossing the desert.