LESSON 1

OVERVIEW

Lesson Description:

This lesson requires that you learn mechanized infantry squad organization and fundamentals. You will be shown how the squad operates within the infantry platoon. Command and control, security, movement, offense, and defense are also discussed.

Terminal Learning Objective:

ACTION:	Explain the organization and doctrine under which the mechanized infantry squad fights.

CONDITION:	Given the information contained in Lesson 1.

STANDARD:	You must attain a score of 70 percent, or more, on the subcourse examination.

REFERENCES:	FM 7-7J.

INTRODUCTION

The US Army's basic fighting doctrine is called Army Operations. It reflects time proven fundamentals, the structure of modern warfare, and the experience of combat. Army Operations doctrine provides a specific mission for mechanized infantry forces.

NOTE

While this subcourse is oriented toward squad sized operations, the infantry squad functions (the majority of the time) as part of the infantry platoon. Hence, full discussion of squad operations must include discussion of platoon operations, if the goal is to produce a proficient squad leader. Based on that fact, this course includes sufficient details of platoon operations to allow the squad leader to fully understand how he and his squad perform--when operating alone and/or as part of the infantry platoon.

PART A - ORGANIZATION

The platoon is the basic combat unit capable of maneuvering in the conduct of combat operations. The platoon can fight as part of a pure mechanized infantry company or as part of a company team, task-organized with tank platoons and mechanized infantry platoons. On the battlefield, the platoon can expect rapid and frequent movement. It must be prepared to fight in a variety of situations (mounted and dismounted) to include attacking, defending, delaying, and moving, and during conditions when nuclear and chemical weapons have been used. The platoon operates to make maximum use of both the mounted and dismounted elements. The decision to fight mounted or dismounted and on how both elements will be used are made at platoon level. Once dismounted, the usual relationship is for all four BFVs, under the platoon sergeant's control, to support the squads. This aligns dismounted and mounted tasks and facilitates command and control.

1. Mounted Element. The mechanized infantry platoon is equipped with four BFVs. The mounted element includes two sections (A and B) with two vehicles each--the section leader's vehicle and his wingman. One section may serve as the base of fire while the other section moves. Personnel seating is based on the principles that leadership and area suppression weapons should be dismounted as early as possible (Figure 1-1). 1st Squad, when mounted, rides in Section A BFVs, and 2d Squad rides in Section B BFVs (Figure 1-2).

Figure 1-1. BFV Personnel Seating.

Figure 1-1. BFV Personnel Seating (continued).

Figure1-2. Bradley Infantary Platoon Organization.

a. The platoon leader, his forward observer, and his assistant gunner ride in the platoon headquarters vehicle (BFV 1) in Section A. The platoon sergeant, aidman, and FO RATELO ride in the platoon sergeant's vehicle (BFV 4) in Section B. The platoon RATELO rides in BFV 2.

b. Team A, 1st Squad rides in BFV 1. Team B, 1st Squad and squad leader ride in the platoon leader's wingman vehicle (BFV 2). The BC of BFV 2 is the platoon master gunner. His vehicle orients on the platoon leader's BFV. When the platoon leader dismounts, BFV 2 remains the wingman of BFV 1.

c. The platoon sergeant is usually mounted and controls the mounted element. He may take control of the dismount element as needed. Team B, 2d Squad and squad leader ride in BFV 3. Team A, 2d Squad rides with platoon sergeant (BFV 4).

2. Dismount Element. The dismount element consists of two squads of nine soldiers each including a squad leader and two team leaders. The leader of the dismount element is usually the platoon leader. The platoon sergeant may lead the dismount element when the mounted fight is the main effort and the situation dictates that the platoon leader remain mounted. The BFVs serve as the base of fire for the dismount element. The squads have the capability of setting up a base of fire to fire and move. A squad can also provide its own overwatch element and conduct independent fire and maneuver when required.

a. The senior gunner in the platoon leader's vehicle becomes the BC when the leader dismounts. Upon dismounting, the platoon leader's assistant gunner moves to the gunner's seat. Should the platoon sergeant dismount, the senior gunner becomes the BC. The platoon sergeant must have a trained gunner designated from the fire team in his vehicle. This position should be resourced, and the individual qualified as part of an alternate crew with the senior gunner as the BC.

b. If a dismount is executed in response to an unexpected, life-threatening situation where speed is essential, then only the squads dismount. The BFVs immediately suppress and obscure the enemy while moving to covered dismount points. A quick estimate is made to determine if and when the platoon leader joins the dismount element. Until that time, the senior squad leader controls the dismount element to develop the situation, to provide local security, or to reconnoiter. When the platoon leader dismounts, the senior squad leader performs platoon sergeant duties as designated by the platoon leader.

c. The ability of the squads to fight independently from the BFVs offers the platoon leader and company commander numerous employment options. Because the BFVs can fight effectively when the fire teams dismount, the platoon can fight as two separate elements. The distinct characteristics and advantages provided by the separate elements are simultaneously reinforcing and complementary to one another.

3. Duties and Responsibilities. The BFV requires a fully trained crew. It carries a fire team whose primary role is to dismount and fight on the ground. The leadership of the BFV- equipped platoon is balanced between the fighting vehicles and the two squads. Leader's roles are complex to accommodate this powerful and flexible capability. Each member of the platoon must be trained and prepared to perform his duties. The organization provides for career progression and depth. There is a mounted and dismounted function and job position for each skill level throughout the platoon. It provides for well-rounded soldiers who can fill voids created by personnel losses in combat or personnel turbulence (changes) or shortfalls in peacetime.

a. Platoon Leader. He is responsible for all that the platoon does or fails to do. This includes the tactical employment, collective training, administration, personnel management, and logistics of his platoon. He must know his soldiers and how to employ the platoon's weapons. He is personally responsible for positioning and employing all assigned or attached weapons. He must also know how to employ supporting weapons. The platoon leader:

(1) Serves as BC and section leader when mounted.

(2) Normally dismounts when the situation causes the platoon to dismount.

(3) Sets the example and the standards.

(4) Leads the platoon to support the company and battalion missions. He bases his actions on the mission the company commander assigns him, the concepts of the company and battalion commanders, and his own estimate of the situation.

(5) Informs his commander of his actions when operating without orders.

(6) Plans with the help of the platoon sergeant, squad leaders, and other key personnel (FO, leaders of attachments, and so on).

(7) Stays abreast of the situation and goes where he is needed to supervise, issue FRAGOs, and accomplish the mission.

(8) Requests more support for his platoon from the company commander to perform its mission, if needed.

(9) Assists the platoon sergeant in planning and coordinating the platoon's CSS effort.

(10) During planning, receives on-hand status reports from the platoon sergeant, squad leader, or both.

(11) Reviews platoon requirements based on the tactical plan.

(12) Develops a casualty evacuation plan.

(13) During execution, checks the work of the platoon sergeant and squad leaders.

b. Platoon Sergeant. He is the senior NCO in the platoon and second in succession of command. He helps and advises the platoon leader, and leads the platoon in the platoon leader's absence. He supervises the platoon's administration, logistics, and maintenance. He may prepare and issue paragraph 4 of the platoon OPORD. The platoon sergeant is responsible for individual training. He must ensure that soldiers can perform their individual MOS tasks. He advises the platoon leader on appointments, promotions and reductions, assignments, and discipline of NCOs and enlisted soldiers in the platoon. The platoon sergeant:

(1) Serves as BC and section leader when mounted.

(2) In some instances, commands and controls the dismount element.

(3) Controls the mounted element when the platoon leader dismounts.

(4) Receives Bradley commanders, squad leaders' administrative, logistical, and maintenance reports and requests for rations, water, fuel, and ammunition. He works with the company's first sergeant or XO to request resupply. He also directs the routing of supplies and mail.

(5) Directs the platoon aidman and platoon aid and litter teams in moving casualties to the rear.

(6) Maintains platoon strength information, consolidates and forwards the platoon's casualty reports (DA Forms 1155 and 1156), and receives and orients replacements.

(7) Monitors the morale, discipline, and health of platoon members.

(8) Takes charge of task-organized elements in the platoon during tactical operations. This can include, but is not limited to, the following.

Quartering parties.

Security forces in withdrawals.

Support elements in raids or attacks.

Security patrols in night attacks.

(9) Coordinates and supervises company-directed platoon resupply operations.

(10) Ensures that supplies are distributed IAW the platoon leader's guidance and direction.

(11) Ensures that ammunition and supplies are properly and evenly distributed (a critical task during consolidation and reorganization).

(12) Ensures that the casualty evacuation plan is complete and executed properly.

c. Bradley Commander. The BC remains mounted and is responsible for commanding the vehicle in relation to the section and platoon. He is responsible for acquiring targets, issuing fire commands, laying the gun for direction, and controlling vehicle fires to include firing port weapons. The BC is primarily responsible for the overall maintenance of the BFV's weapons systems and the automotive and turret portion of the vehicle. He is also responsible for the weapons training and welfare of the crew. The BCs on BFVs 2 and 3 are responsible for the training, health, and welfare of the crews of the two BFVs in their sections.

d. Squad Leader. There are two squads each led by a staff sergeant. Their squads are habitually associated with a vehicle section. The senior dismounted squad leader is also responsible for the employment of the dismount element until the platoon leader or PSG arrives. He is responsible for all that the squad does or fails to do. He is a tactical leader and, as such, leads by example. The squad leader:

(1) Assists the BC in maintaining the BFVs.

(2) Controls the maneuver of his squad and its rate and distribution of fire. To do this, he controls two fire teams in the offense; selects each fighting position in the defense; and gives the proper commands, codes, and signals to start, stop, and shift fires.

(3) Trains his squad on the individual and collective tasks required to sustain combat effectiveness.

(4) Manages the logistical and administrative needs of his squad. He requests and issues ammunition, water, rations, and special equipment.

(5) Maintains accountability of his soldiers and equipment.

(6) Completes casualty feeder reports and reviews the casualty reports completed by squad members.

(7) Submits requests for awards and decorations.

(8) Directs the maintenance of the squad's weapons and equipment.

(9) Inspects the condition of soldier's weapons, clothing, and equipment.

(10) Ensures that material and supplies are distributed to the soldier in the squad.

(11) Keeps the platoon leader and platoon sergeant informed on squad supply status and squad requirements.

(12) Ensures supplies and equipment are internally cross- leveled within the squad.

e. Platoon Master Gunner. The platoon master gunner is the BC for BFV 2 and the platoon leader's wingman. He is the platoon leader's technical expert on gunnery and turret weapons systems. During combat or field exercises, he advises the platoon leader and PSG on BFV weapons effects, capabilities, and safety. He advises on fire control measures and preparation. He is the key technical trainer of the mounted element under routine supervision of the platoon sergeant. He helps the platoon leader establish the gunnery task for training.

f. Team Leader. Two fire team leaders are in each squad. They perform the same functions as team leaders in all infantry rifle squads and are habitually associated with a specific BFV. They assist the squad leader in the tactical control of the squad. They lead by example. They control the movement and fires of the fire teams. They must keep the soldiers in the troop compartment well informed and alert. They assist the squad leader in training team members on the individual and collective tasks and battle drills. Team members provide the necessary local security and maintenance support for the BFV. They are responsible for the welfare of their teams.

g. Gunner. The gunner observes the battlefield to detect enemy targets. He operates the turret weapons as directed by the BC. The gunner is responsible for verifying the identification of targets before engaging. He serves as gunner and, in rare cases, as BC when only two men are in the BFV. He is responsible for operator maintenance of the turret and its weapons. The gunners for the platoon leader and platoon sergeant are often required to assist in navigation and operation of radios.

h. Driver. The driver drives the vehicle under the BC's control. He follows terrain-driving procedures and tries to select hull-down positions. He also aids in detecting targets and observing rounds fired. He assists in navigation by monitoring odometer readings and observing terrain. The driver is primarily responsible for operator maintenance of vehicle automotive systems. (Other squad members help the driver as directed by the platoon leader or platoon sergeant.)

i. Antiarmor Specialist. The antiarmor specialist's primary weapon is the M16A2 rifle. He is also the designated gunner for the Dragon and AT4.

j. Grenadier. The grenadier's primary weapon is the M16A2 rifle equipped with the M203 grenade launcher.

k. Automatic Rifleman. The automatic rifleman's primary weapon is the M249 machine gun. The Bradley squad has three automatic riflemen.

l. Platoon Aidman. The platoon aidman helps the platoon sergeant direct aid and litter teams; he monitors the health and hygiene of the platoon. The platoon aidman:

(1) Treats casualties and assists in their evacuation under the control of the platoon sergeant.

(2) Aids the platoon leader or sergeant in field hygiene matters, and personally checks the health and physical condition of platoon members.

(3) Requests Class VIII (medical) supplies through the platoon sergeant.

(4) Provides technical expertise and supervision of the combat lifesavers.

(5) Carries out other tasks assigned by the platoon leader and platoon sergeant.

m. Platoon Radiotelephone Operator. The platoon RATELO must know the use and care of the radio to include waterproofing and presetting frequencies, the use of the SOI, and how to construct and erect field-expedient antennas.

n. Fire Support Team. The company has a fire support team attached from the DS FA battalion. This team provides each platoon with a two-soldier FO party--an FO and his RATELO.

(1) Forward Observer. The FO acts as the eyes of the FA and mortars. He works for the platoon leader. The FO's main responsibilities are to locate targets and to call for and adjust indirect fire support. The FO must be familiar with the terrain that the platoon is operating in and the tactical situation. He must know the mission, the concept, and the platoon's scheme of maneuver and priority of fires. The FO must:

Inform the FIST headquarters of platoon activities and the fire support situation.

Prepare and use situation maps, overlays, and terrain sketches.

Call for and adjust fire support.

Operate as a team with the RATELO.

Select targets to support the platoon's mission based on the company OPORD, platoon leader's guidance, and an analysis of METT-T factors.

Select OPs and movement routes to and from them.

Maintain communications as prescribed by the FSO.

Operate the digital message device.

Maintain the six-digit grid coordinates of his location.

(2) Radiotelephone Operator. The RATELO's main duties are to set up, operate, and maintain the FO party's communication equipment. At times, he must also perform the duties of the FO for the platoon.

PART B - FUNDAMENTALS

Among the mechanized infantry's basic fundamentals are the principles of war, the dynamics of combat power, and the tenets of Air Land Battle. These fundamentals have application at the platoon and squad level. This part provides the mission of the mechanized infantry and the doctrine principles basic to the mechanized infantry rifle platoon and squad (Bradley). These principles form the basis for platoon and squad tactics, techniques, procedures, and drills. This part also discusses the dynamics of combat power and the skills required of leaders and soldiers at the small-unit level.

1. Mission. The mission of the mechanized infantry is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver to defeat or capture him, or to repel his assault by fire, close combat, and counterattack.

a. Despite any technological advantages that our armed forces might have over an enemy, only close combat between ground forces gains the decision in battle. Mechanized infantry rifle forces have a key role in close combat situations. They:

Attack over approaches that are not feasible for armored forces.

Make initial penetration and retain existing (natural and man-made) obstacles and difficult terrain as pivots for operational and tactical maneuver.

Seize or secure forested and built-up areas.

Control restrictive routes for use by other forces.

Operate primarily at night or during other periods of natural or induced limited visibility.

Conduct rear area operations.

b. The Bradley fighting vehicle provides:

Mobile protected transport of sufficient infantry to the critical point on the battlefield.

Fires to support the dismounted infantry.

Fires to suppress or destroy enemy IFV and light-armor vehicles.

Antiarmor fires to destroy enemy armor.

c. Success in battle hinges on the actions of platoons, elements, sections, and squads in close combat; on their ability to react to contact, employ suppressive fires, maneuver to a vulnerable flank, and fight through to defeat, destroy, or capture an enemy. The successful actions of the BFV platoon relies on the ability of leaders and soldiers to maximize the potential of both the infantry and BFV; to use terrain to good advantage; to operate their weapons with accuracy and deadly effect; to out think, out move, and out fight the enemy.

d. Mechanized infantry rifle platoons and squads normally operate as part of a larger force. They benefit from the support of other infantry units, armor, artillery, mortars, close air, helicopters, air defense, and engineer assets. They also provide their own suppressive fires either to repel enemy assaults or to support their own maneuver.

2. Combat Power. The doctrine that guides mechanized infantry forces is based on the four dynamics of combat power: maneuver, firepower, protection, and leadership.

a. Maneuver. Maneuver is the movement of forces supported by fire to achieve a position of advantage from which to destroy or threaten destruction of the enemy. Mechanized infantry forces move to gain a position of advantage over the enemy and to hold that advantage. They maneuver to attack enemy flanks, rear areas, logistics points, and command posts. In the defense, they maneuver to counterattack a flank of the enemy attack. Maneuver, properly supported by fires, allows the mechanized infantry to close with the enemy and gain a decision in combat.

b. Firepower. Firepower is the capacity of a unit to deliver effective fires on a target. Firepower kills or suppresses the enemy in his positions, deceives the enemy, and supports maneuver. Without effective supporting fires the mechanized infantry cannot maneuver. Before attempting to maneuver, units must establish a base of fire. A base of fire is fire placed on an enemy force or position to reduce or eliminate the enemy's ability to interfere with friendly maneuver. A base of fire may be provided by a single weapon or a grouping of weapon systems. Leaders must know how to control, mass, and combine fire with maneuver. They must identify the most critical targets quickly, direct fires onto them, and ensure that the volume of fires is sufficient to keep the enemy from returning fire effectively, and the platoon from expending ammunition needlessly.

c. Protection. Protection is the conservation of the fighting potential of a force so that it can be applied at the decisive time and place. Platoons must never permit the enemy to acquire an unexpected advantage. Platoons and squads take active and passive measures to protect themselves from surprise, observation, detection, interference, espionage, sabotage, or annoyance. Protection includes two basic considerations: care of the soldier and his equipment, and action to counter enemy combat power.

(1) The first consideration involves sustainment techniques necessary to maintain the platoon and squads as an effective fighting force. It includes keeping soldiers healthy to maintain fighting morale through personal hygiene, physical conditioning, and rest plans. It also includes keeping equipment in good working condition, and providing and protecting supplies.

(2) The second involves security, dispersion, cover, camouflage, deception, and suppression of enemy weapons. Mechanized infantry units gain protection by digging fighting positions when stationary for any length of time; by skillful use of terrain while moving mounted; by dismounting the infantry to increase protection; and through overwatch and suppressive fires and obscuration. The mechanized infantry always wants to set the time and place of battle, and it must protect itself so that it can do so with maximum combat power and the important element of surprise .

d. Leadership. Military leadership is a process by which a soldier influences others to accomplish the mission. Leaders coordinate the other three elements of combat power. Their competent and confident leadership results in effective unit action. The right leadership gives purpose, direction, and motivation in combat. Leaders must know their profession, their soldiers, and the tools of war. Only this kind of leader can direct soldiers to do difficult tasks under dangerous and stressful conditions. Leadership is the most important element of combat power.

3. Leader Skills. Bradley infantry leaders must be versatile. They cannot rely on a book to solve tactical problems. They must understand and use initiative in accomplishing the mission. This means that they must know how to analyze the situation quickly and make decisions rapidly in light of the commander's intent. They must be prepared to take independent action if necessary. The art of making sound decisions quickly lies in the knowledge of tactics, the estimate process, and platoon and squad techniques and procedures. The skills required of Bradley infantry leaders include physical toughness, technical and tactical knowledge, mental agility, and a firm grasp of how to motivate soldiers to fight on in the face of adversity.

4. Soldier Skills. Soldiers with sharply honed skills form the building blocks of combat effective units. They must maintain a high state of physical fitness. They must be experts in the use of their primary weapons and vehicle weapon systems. They must be proficient in infantry skills (land navigation, camouflage, individual movement techniques, survival techniques, and so forth). Finally, they must know and practice their roles as members of fire teams, squads, crews, sections, and platoons.

5. Training. Bradley infantry units must train properly for combat. Training must conform to Army doctrine. Doctrinal manuals provide leaders correct procedures and principles to conduct training properly. Leaders and soldiers must understand standardized doctrinal principles found in applicable publications. They should refer to ARTEP 7-7J-MTP andARTEP 7- 7J-DRILL to find the specific conditions and standards for the techniques and procedures discussed in this manual. Training must require leaders to use their initiative and make decisions quickly. The training environment must be realistic and stressful. Training must challenge soldiers to master all mechanized infantry tasks, individual and collective, and it must constantly remind them of their mission, their heritage, and the physical and mental toughness that is required of them. Unit training must also promote the cohesion of the unit so that, when all else fails, units continue to fight.

PART C - OPERATIONS

This part describes the three basic tactical operations undertaken by mechanized infantry platoons and squads: movement, offense, and defense. It also discusses the requirement for security, which is inherent in all platoon operations.

1. Considerations for Employment. Leaders must consider the following in employing mechanized infantry tactics.

a. Squads and platoons fight through enemy contact at the lowest possible level. All soldiers and their leaders must know their immediate reactions to enemy contact as well as their follow-up actions. Battle drills are the standard procedures used to enable soldiers and their leaders to do this. (Battle drills are discussed in Lesson 3.)

b. Squads or platoons in contact must establish effective suppressive fires to gain fire superiority before they can maneuver. If the platoon or squad cannot move under its own fires, the leader must request support from higher headquarters. The platoon must attempt to gain fire superiority and then maneuver against an enemy position.

c. Squads and platoons will fight as organized. The platoon fights by elements, mounted and dismounted, and the squad fights by fire teams. Fire teams, squads, and elements retain their integrity. The mounted element fights by sections (wingman concept). The platoon leader and his wingman are Section A; the platoon sergeant and his wingman are Section B. Even buddy teams stay the same. The team leader and the automatic rifleman form one buddy team, and the grenadier (M203) or automatic rifleman or an antiarmor specialist form the other buddy team. Success depends on all soldiers understanding what the unit is trying to do and the specific steps necessary to accomplish the mission.

d. The platoon leader waits for the section/squad in contact to develop the situation. Anytime a BFV or fire team makes contact, the platoon also begins taking action. That way the platoon can quickly provide additional support, maneuver to take up the assault, or follow-up on the success of the section or squad that made contact after they develop the situation.

2. Movement. Movement refers to the shifting of forces on the battlefield. The key to moving successfully involves selecting the best combination of formations and movement techniques in each situation. Leaders consider the factors of mission, enemy, terrain, and troops and time available (METT-T) in selecting the best route and the appropriate formation and movement technique. The leader's selection must allow moving units to:

Maintain cohesion.

Maintain momentum.

Provide maximum protection.

Make contact with the smallest force possible.

Make contact in a manner that allows them to transition smoothly to offensive or defensive action. During planning, the platoon leader must designate dismount points en route to the objective, and look for possible dismount points as the platoon moves toward the objective.

a. Vehicles and Formations. Formations are arrangements of units and of soldiers in relation to each other. Platoons and squads use formations for control, security, and flexibility.

(1) Control. Every unit, vehicle, and soldier has a standard position. Soldiers can see their team leaders. Bradley commanders can see their wingmen and fire team leaders can see their squad leaders. Leaders control their units using arm-and- hand signals.

(2) Security. Formations also provide 360-degree security and allow units to give the weight of their firepower to the flanks or front in anticipation of enemy contact.

(3) Flexibility. Formations do not demand parade ground precision. Platoons must retain the flexibility needed to vary their formations to the situation. The use of formations allows platoons and squads to execute battle drills more quickly and gives soldiers the assurance that their leaders and buddy team members are in their expected positions and performing the right tasks.

b. Movement Techniques. Movement techniques describe the position of vehicles, squads, and fire teams in relation to each other during movement. Platoons and squads use three movement techniques: traveling, traveling overwatch, and bounding overwatch. Leaders base their selection of a particular movement technique on the likelihood of enemy contact and the requirement for speed. Movement techniques provide varying degrees of control, security, and flexibility. Movement techniques differ from formations in two ways.

(1) Formations are relatively fixed; movement techniques are not. The distance between moving teams/squads/sections or the distance that a team/squad/section bounds away from an overwatching team/squad/section varies based on factors of METT-T.

(2) Formations allow the platoon to weight its maximum firepower in a desired direction; movement techniques allow platoons to make contact with the enemy with the smallest element possible. This allows leaders to establish a base of fire, gain suppressive fires, and attempt to maneuver without first having to disengage or be reinforced.

c. Other Considerations. In planning tactical movement, leaders should also consider the requirements for:

Reconnaissance.

Dispersion.

Security.

Cover and concealment.

Speed.

Observation and fields of fire.

Maneuver space.

Command and control.

Dismount points en route to the objective.

3. Offense. Platoons and squads undertake offensive operations to destroy the enemy and his will to fight; to seize terrain; to learn enemy strength and disposition; or to deceive, divert, or hold the enemy. Mechanized infantry platoons and squads normally conduct offensive operations as part of a larger force. However, they can perform some offensive operations independently. Offensive operations include movements to contact, attacks, raids, reconnaissance and security operations, and ambushes.

a. Movement to Contact. A movement to contact is an attack that seeks to gain or regain contact with the enemy. Usually, a platoon moving to contact lacks detailed information about the enemy. The platoon uses traveling, traveling overwatch, or bounding overwatch based on the likelihood of enemy contact and the need for speed. Upon making contact, a lead BFV or fire team identifies the enemy strengths and weaknesses as it develops the situation. A platoon conducts a movement to contact as part of a company. Considerations for planning and conducting movements to contact include:

Making enemy contact with the smallest element possible.

Preventing detection of elements not in contact until they are in the assault.

Maintaining 360-degree security at all times.

Reporting all information quickly and accurately.

Maintaining contact once it is gained.

Generating combat power rapidly upon contact.

Fighting through at the lowest level possible.

b. Types of Attack. An attack is an offensive action characterized by movement supported by fire. There are two types of attack: hasty and deliberate. They are distinguished chiefly by the time available for preparation. Additionally, special- purpose attacks include raids and ambushes. Successful attack depends on concentrating the maximum possible shock and violence against the enemy force. Mechanized infantry forces combine shock and violence with surprise. The objective is to shatter the enemy's nerve, ruin his synchronization, unravel his plan, and destroy his unit's cohesion and the willingness of his soldiers to fight. A successful attack combines a scheme of maneuver with a coordinated plan of direct and indirect fire support. The focus of an attacking platoon's fire and maneuver is a weak point, a vulnerable flank, or the rear of an enemy. Once he has identified the point of attack, the leader establishes a base of fire to kill, fix, or suppress the enemy at that point. He then maneuvers the rest of his force to a position from which it can assault.

(1) Hasty Attack. A hasty attack is conducted with the forces immediately available to maintain momentum or to take advantage of the enemy situation. It does not involve extensive preparation in comparison to a deliberate attack.

(2) Deliberate Attack. A deliberate attack is carefully planned and coordinated. More time is available to perform thorough reconnaissance, evaluation of all available intelligence and relative combat strength, analysis of various courses of action, and other factors affecting the situation. It is generally conducted against a well-organized defense when a hasty attack is not possible or has been conducted and failed.

(3) Raid. A raid is a swift penetration of hostile territory to secure information, to confuse the enemy, or to destroy his installations. It ends with a planned withdrawal after completion of the assigned mission.

(4) Ambush. An ambush is a surprise attack by fire from concealed positions on a moving or temporarily halted enemy unit. It combines the advantages and characteristics of the offense with those of the defense.

c. Initiative in the Attack. Seizing and retaining the initiative involves more than just achieving tactical surprise. It involves a process of planning and preparing for combat operations, finding the enemy first, avoiding detection, fixing the enemy, locating or creating a weakness, and maneuvering to exploit that weakness with a quick and violent assault.

(1) Plan and Prepare. Leaders use the troop-leading procedure to make sure that all necessary steps are taken to prepare for a mission. Leaders use the estimate of the situation to analyze the factors of METT-T and to determine the best course of action and to ensure that leaders, soldiers, and their equipment can perform the tasks necessary to accomplish the mission.

(2) Find the Enemy. Platoon leaders find the enemy by knowing how he fights, by analyzing the terrain in light of this knowledge, and by actively reconnoitering to locate him.

(3) Avoid Detection. Platoons avoid detection by moving along the least expected route; platoons use terrain to mask their movements. They use proper camouflage techniques and move with stealth. This allows platoons to capitalize on surprise. All of this requires imagination in leaders and stamina in soldiers.

(4) Fix the Enemy. Platoons, sections, and squads fix enemy forces by employing suppressive fires that kill exposed enemy soldiers and destroy their weapons. As a minimum, they render the volume and accuracy of the enemy's fire ineffective.

(5) Find or Create a Weakness. Leaders look for vulnerable flanks, gaps in lines, or lulls in enemy fire. When they cannot readily find a weakness, they create one with suppressive fire coupled with the surprise effect of suddenly coming from an unexpected direction.

(6) Maneuver to Exploit the Weakness. Leaders must exploit this weakness by moving to the best covered and concealed position and then assaulting to destroy, defeat, or capture the enemy.

(7) Consolidate and Reorganize. Finally, platoons and squads must quickly consolidate the position to defend it against an enemy counterattack. They then reorganize themselves and prepare to continue the mission.

d. Control Measures. Leaders use graphic control measures to regulate or direct the platoon's movement, positions, and fire.

(1) Control measures are not intended to restrict the exercise of initiative (the function of command). Leaders use control measures to clarify their intent, focus the platoon and squad effort, and ensure synchronization. Each control measure should have a specific purpose that contributes to mission accomplishment. If a control measure fails the purpose test, leaders should not use it.

(2) Control measures can be drawn on a map, overlay, sketch, or a terrain model. Leaders should strive to keep control measures easily identifiable and simple. Graphic control measures in the offense include assembly area, attack position, line of departure, boundaries, route, release point, start point, axis of advance, limit of advance, direction of attack, phase line, checkpoint, assault position, objective, contact point, linkup point, infiltration lane, probable line of deployment, and limit of advance. FM 101-5-1 discusses these control measures in detail and provides examples of their use.

e. Attacks During Limited Visibility. Attacks during limited visibility achieve surprise, avoid heavy losses, cause panic in a weak and disorganized enemy, exploit success, maintain momentum, and keep pressure on the enemy. Platoons and squads attack whenever possible during limited visibility. Darkness, fog, heavy rain, falling snow, and the smoke and dust of combat create limited visibility conditions that allow infantry platoons and squads to move undetected.

(1) Fundamentals. The fundamentals for a daylight attack apply to limited visibility attacks. Limited visibility attacks require:

Well-trained platoons.

Sufficient light to employ night vision devices.

A simple concept with sufficient control measures.

Detailed, successful reconnaissance of the objective, routes, passage points, support-by-fire positions, and other key locations.

(2) Considerations. Leaders must consider the increased difficulty during limited visibility operations in performing the following:

Controlling the movement of vehicles; individuals;and platoons, squads, and sections.

Identifying targets and controlling direct and indirect fires.

Navigating and moving.

Identifying friendly and enemy vehicles and soldiers.

Locating, treating, and evacuating casualties.

Locating and bypassing or breaching enemy obstacles.

f. Infiltration. Infiltration is a form of maneuver in the offense. It is a means of reaching the enemy's rear without fighting through prepared defenses. Mechanized infantry platoons infiltrate to move into or through an area as stealthily as possible. An infiltration is not an end in itself but a means to an end.

(1) Platoons infiltrate to:

Gather information.

Attack enemy positions from the rear.

Conduct raids or ambushes in enemy rear areas.

Capture prisoners.

Seize key terrain in support of other operations.

Aid a main attack.

(2) An infiltration has five phases (a squad or section is the smallest element that should infiltrate).

(a) Patrol. Find gaps, weak areas in enemy defenses and enemy positions.

(b) Prepare. Make plans, give orders, coordinate with forward and flank units, and rehearse.

(d) Consolidate. Do this in the enemy rear or along a final linkup point; then, move to an objective rally point to continue the mission.

(e) Execute. Carry out the assigned mission. The mission can be attack, raid, seize key terrain or an area, capture prisoners, or gather information.

(3) Three methods of infiltration are:

(a) Multiple Lanes. When many gaps exist and the terrain can support a large number of lanes, each platoon or squad uses its own lane.

(b) Single Lane--Staggered Time. Platoons or squads move along a single lane at staggered times. This method can be used when few gaps exist or when the ground restricts the number of lanes.

4. Defense. Platoons and squads normally defend as part of a larger force to disrupt, disorganize, delay, or defeat an attacking enemy, deny an area to an enemy, or protect a flank. They may also defend as a part of a larger unit in a retrograde operation. The challenge to the defender is to retain the initiative, that is, to keep the enemy reacting and unable to execute his own plan.

a. Types of Defense. A defense is a coordinated effort by a force to defeat an attacker and prevent him from achieving his objective. The two types of defense are hasty and deliberate. They are distinguished chiefly by the time available for preparation. Defensive techniques used in these two types of defenses include perimeter defense, defense of a battle position, defense in sector, defense of a strongpoint, and reverse-slope defense. These techniques are discussed in Lesson 2, Part E.

(1) Hasty Defense. A hasty defense is normally organized while in contact with the enemy or when contact is imminent and time to organize is limited. It is characterized by improvement of natural defensive strengths of the terrain by using fighting positions, emplacement, and obstacles.

(2) Deliberate Defense. A deliberate defense is a defense normally organized when out of contact with the enemy or when contact with the enemy is not imminent and time for organization is available.

b. Initiative in the Defense. Since the enemy decides the time and place of the attack, leaders seize and retain the initiative in the defense through careful planning, preparation, coordination, and rehearsal. Leaders plan and establish the defense to find the enemy first, without being found; fix the enemy with obstacles and fires; locate or create a weakness in the enemy's attack plan; and maneuver to exploit that weakness with quick violent counterattacks.

(1) Plan and Prepare. Leaders use the troop-leading procedure to make sure that all necessary steps are taken to prepare for a mission. They analyze the factors of METT-T to determine the best course of action. In the defense, they determine where best to kill the enemy, and they position obstacles to canalize him to that point. They position key weapons to concentrate fires into the killing area and cover obstacles with fire. Leaders position the remaining platoon and squad weapons to support and protect the key weapons and cover obstacles. They reconnoiter and rehearse counterattacks.

(2) Find the Enemy. Platoon leaders find the enemy by knowing how he fights, by analyzing the terrain in light of this knowledge, by positioning OPs along likely avenues of approach, and by actively patrolling to locate him.

(3) Avoid Detection. Platoons avoid detection by moving into the defensive position during darkness if possible, using proper camouflage techniques and by practicing good noise, light, and litter discipline. This allows platoons to capitalize on surprise. All of this requires imagination in leaders and stamina in soldiers.

(4) Fix the Enemy. Platoons use a combination of tactical obstacles and direct and indirect fires to disrupt the enemy attack and fix the enemy in a place where the platoon can destroy him with fires.

(5) Find or Create a Weakness. Platoons create a weakness by destroying the enemy's command and control nodes, by isolating an attacking or assaulting enemy formation from its support, by causing mounted forces to dismount and thereby slowing the attack and making the enemy vehicles more vulnerable, by use of night vision devices to gain a visibility advantage, or by the effective use of illumination to blind or expose the enemy during his attack.

(6) Maneuver to Exploit the Weakness. Having created a weakness, platoons must exploit it with counterattacks against the flank or rear of the enemy attack by fire or maneuver. Units must carefully coordinate and rehearse all counterattacks to ensure the proper synchronization in lifting and shifting of direct and indirect fires. They must also consider the threat of follow-on enemy forces against their counterattack.

(7) Reorganize. Platoons and squads must be able to reorganize quickly to continue the defense against follow-on forces.

c. Control Measures. Leaders use control measures to assign responsibilities, coordinate fires and maneuver, control combat operations, and clarify their concept of the operation. Additionally, control measures ensure the distribution of fires throughout the unit's area of responsibility and the initial positioning and subsequent maneuver of units.

(1) Graphic control measures used in the defense include sectors, battle positions, unit boundaries, contact points, coordination points, forward edge of the battle area (FEBA), strongpoints, target reference points (TRP), assembly areas, phase lines, passage points and lanes, release points, and engagement areas. FM 101-5-1 discusses these control measures in detail and provides examples of their use.

(2) Fire commands and control measures for individual and key weapons also constitute a type of control measure available to leaders. Weapons control measures include range cards, sectors of fire, principle direction of fire, final protective line, final protective fires, and target reference points. Most of these appear on the range card. Lesson 2 describes the requirements for weapons range cards and provides examples. In addition, antiarmor gunners, fire teams, squads, and platoons can be given engagement priorities and fire commands.

d. Obstacles. Obstacles give strength to a defense when properly employed. Platoons and squads incorporate existing (natural and man-made) obstacles into their defense and construct other obstacles, reinforcing systems with mines and wire.

(1) Considerations. Leaders must integrate their obstacle plans with direct and indirect fire plans and with their scheme of maneuver. Platoons always cover obstacles by fire and observation. They protect obstacles with antipersonnel mines, trip flares, and warning devices. They camouflage wire or hide it in natural terrain features. Lesson 2 discusses the techniques of obstacle employment most common to mechanized infantry platoons and squads.

(2) Classifications. Wire obstacles have three classifications based on their use and location. Priority for emplacement normally goes to tactical wire. Additionally, leaders can organize their obstacles so that one obstacle can serve both tactical and protective functions.

(a) Tactical. The platoon leader sites tactical wire parallel to and along the friendly side of the FPLs of major weapons. Tactical wire holds the enemy where he can be killed or wounded by automatic rifle fire, Claymores, hand grenades, machine gun fire, and 25-mm gun fire and antiarmor fire.

(b) Protective. Platoons locate protective wire to prevent surprise assaults from points close to the defense area. The wire normally lies just outside of hand-grenade range and well within both day and night observation.

(c) Supplementary. These obstacles are used to break up the line of tactical wire to prevent the enemy from locating friendly weapons (particularly the machine guns) by following the tactical wire.

5. Security. Security is protection which includes any measure taken by platoons and squads against actions that may reduce their effectiveness. It involves avoiding detection by the enemy or deceiving the enemy about friendly positions and intentions. It also includes reconnaissance to find the enemy and to learn as much about his positions and intentions as possible. Security allows units to retain freedom of action and is an important part of maintaining the initiative. The requirement for security is an inherent part of all platoon operations. Platoons and squads secure themselves when they move, attack, and defend. As part of a larger formation, they may undertake security operations that involve patrolling; establishing squad- and section-sized OPs on a screen line; or executing advance, flank, or rear guard missions for the main body in a movement to contact.

a. Security During Movement. Platoons and squads enhance security during movement by:

Using the proper movement formation and technique.

Moving as fast as the situation will allow. This may degrade the enemy's ability to detect the unit and the effectiveness of his fires once detected.

Moving along terrain that offers cover and concealment.

Enforcing noise, litter, and light discipline.

Using proper camouflage techniques.

b. Security in the Offense. Security in the offense includes reconnaissance and security missions to locate the enemy and protect friendly forces from surprise while leaving them free to deploy when contact is made with the enemy. All platoons and squads are responsible for their own local security. They may also be given specific reconnaissance and security tasks as part of the company or battalion plan. Platoons and squads conduct patrols, establish OPs, and move using appropriate movement formations and techniques to accomplish both reconnaissance and security tasks.

c. Security in the Defense. In the defense, platoons and squads use both active and passive measures to enhance security. Platoons also add to their security by actions taken to deny enemy reconnaissance elements accurate information on friendly positions. This includes the destruction of enemy reconnaissance elements and the use of deception measures.

(1) Active measures include:

The use of OPs and patrols.

The establishment of specific levels of alert within the platoon. The level can be adjusted based on the METT-T situation.

The establishment of stand-to times. The platoon's SOP should detail the platoon's activities for stand-to.

(2) Passive measures include:

Camouflage.

Movement control.

Noise, litter, and light discipline.

Proper radiotelephone procedures.

Ground sensors, night vision devices, and antiarmor weapons' day and nightsights.

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Practice Exercise
Lesson 2 Part A
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