To cause troops etc. to spread out in readiness for battle

A. Align

B. Collocate

C. Deploy

D. Disperse

Answer: Option C

Solution(By Examveda Team)

One word substitute is Deploy.

Align: place or arrange (things) in a straight line.
Collocate: place side by side or in a particular relation.
Deploy: move (troops or equipment) into position for military action.
Disperse: distribute or spread over a wide area.