Source: Warhammer Armies Project: Unofficial 9th Edition (v2.2)

Incomplete Ranks
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Strange gaps where models are missing from a rank do not prevent warriors from fighting.

If a unit is fighting to its flank, the models in the incomplete rank are moved into contact with the enemy, there to fight and be fought normally. If the unit is fighting to its rear (or fighting to both flanks) some enemy models might not end up in base contact because of the models in the incomplete rear rank. In this specific situation, the models can fight across the gap, even if not physically in base-to-base contact. In reality, the chargers would not have stopped one step away from the enemy and would have moved in to continue the fight – treat these models as being in base contact with the enemy.

incomplete-ranks-flank
The models in the incomplete rank are moved to be in contact with their enemies.
incomplete-ranks-rear
Full lines = Attacks normally, Dotted lines = Can make a supporting attack - If casualties inflicted on the red unit causes the unit to be separated, move the blue unit forward to maximise contact.

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