1. Military or armed personnel who abandon their allegiance, organization, or country, typically during conflict or political upheaval
The defecting forces joined the rebel movement after witnessing atrocities.
As forças desertoras juntaram-se ao movimento rebelde após testemunharem atrocidades.
2. Soldiers or armed groups that switch sides or abandon their original faction
Defecting forces strengthened the opposition army significantly.
As forças desertoras fortaleceram significativamente o exército de oposição.