IN0479 Edition 9 Lesson 2

LESSON 2

CONDUCT A DISENGAGEMENT, DELAY, WITHDRAWAL AND LIMITED VISIBILITY OPERATION

Prepare and conduct limited visibility operations, employ the BFV in an air defense role and disengagement, delay, and withdrawal from a defensive position.

TASK:

Prepare and conduct limited visibility operations, employ the BFV in an air defense role, and disengagement, delay, and withdrawal from a defensive position.

CONDITIONS:

Given the subcourse material for this lesson, a combat (training) scenario and extracts, as applicable, the student will complete the practical exercise at the end of this lesson.

STANDARD:

The student will demonstrate his comprehension and knowledge by identifying the procedures to conduct defensive operations.

REFERENCE: FM 7-7J

In this lesson, you will learn the techniques used by the Bradley platoon to plan and conduct the defense in limited visibility. You will also learn the air defense role of the Bradley. The lesson will end with the techniques used in disengagement, delay, and withdrawal in the defense.

Learning Event 1: IDENTIFY TECHNIQUES USED BY THE BRADLEY PLATOON FOR PLANNING AND CONDUCTING DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS IN LIMITED VISIBILITY

This learning event will discuss the techniques used by the Bradley platoon to conduct the defense in limited visibility. These should not be thought of as "special" conditions. The use of smoke and obscurants is common on the modern battlefield. Bradley leaders will need to know how to operate under these conditions.

LIMITED VISIBILITY CONSIDERATIONS

Limited visibility conditions are many. Darkness limits how much we can see, as do fog and rain. Smoke and dust will also limit vision. Other obscurants may be used in battle as well. A number of devices are used to improve visibility; these are--

Image intensifiers.
Thermal sights.
Binoculars.
Artificial illumination.

Image intensifiers and thermal sights should be used together. The strengths of one can offset the weaknesses of the other. Some conditions degrade the effectiveness of night vision devices. These conditions are heavy rain, snow, fog, smoke, and dust. Security measures must then be increased. More remote OPs can be set up. More patrols can also be used, as well as remote sensors.

SECURITY MEASURES

The security measures outlined here are general. That is, they apply in any condition. They are of special concern in limited visibility.

Noise and Light Discipline

The platoon must use noise and light discipline at night. If it does not, all other security efforts may be wasted.

Noise. Vehicle noises are the hardest to control. They are also those most likely to be heard by the threat. Vehicle noise may be cut down in several ways.

When it can be done, move as little as possible at night when the BFV's engine and tracks can be heard at a greater distance. Avoid fast idle speeds and fast movement. Where possible, close ramps and hatches before dark. If closing them after dark, do not slam them shut.

Vehicle. Light discipline includes--

Using vision block covers during darkness.
Using the driver's night vision viewer (AN/VVS-2).
Using night vision goggles.
Turning off all internal lights.
Using red filters on all flashlights.

When it is dark and the BFV has been prepared, it should be checked. One man from each dismount team can do this. He inspects the squad's BFV from the outside for visible light. The BFV should emit none.

Dismount Teams. The dismount teams also use noise and light discipline. Loud noises must be avoided. These include loud talking, laughing, and metal-on-metal sounds. There should be no smoking or building fires. Use of flashlights must be controlled.

Physical Security

The threat must not be allowed to close on, or infiltrate, friendly positions without being detected. The platoon and squad must take actions to prevent this. This is physical security. The actions include--

Manning observation posts.
Conducting patrols.
Conducting stand-to.
Silent watch.
Providing local security.

Observation Post. As a rule, the platoon will set up at least one two-man OP. The platoon leader will designate a squad to perform OP duties. An OP is designed in the defense to observe to the front; it may also observe in the gaps between friendly positions. It gives early warning of the threat's advance. Wire is the main means of communication between the platoon and the OP.

A whole squad, including the BFV crew, may be given an OP mission. This gives the OP more firepower. It also gives armor protection and mobility. When this is not feasible, the rifle team will man the OP.

When the platoon leader mans an OP, he must explain in detail what he wants the men to do. He must tell them what actions to take when they detect the threat. They should be told when and how to return to the platoon's position. The platoon leader may want to have the FO and radiotelephone operator go to the OP. They can then call for indirect fire on any threat they detect.

Patrols. As a rule, these cover unoccupied gaps between positions. At times, patrols may also cover the terrain between OPs to the front. Squad rifle teams man the patrols.

Stand-to. These are conducted according to the unit SOP. A stand-to is a time of maximum preparedness. It occurs at first light and at darkness. The stand-to assures that the platoon is ready for action. It also assures that each man adjusts to the change in light. A stand-to is done 30 minutes before and after beginning morning nautical twilight (BMNT). One is also done at end evening nautical twilight (EENT). These are the minimum stand-to times.

The SOP should set out the actions to be taken. As a minimum, they should include--

All troops are awake, dressed, and ready for combat.
All vehicles are topped off with fuel and stocked with the basic load of ammunition.
All weapons have been cleaned, serviced, assembled, and are ready for action. All radios are turned on and tested (briefly).
All vehicles are ready for short-notice moves. They are loaded to the extent possible.

Silent Watch. Observation of assigned sectors must he kept up. It must not expose a friendly force to the threat's view. This is crucial in limited visibility, and in lulls in the battle. Silent watch may be used to do this. It hold to a minimum all sounds that might be heard by the threat.

A key factor in the use of silent watch is power drain. The BFV engine must be shut off, so only battery power is used. The platoon leader must use care to plan for this. The vehicle must be able to start if the threat attacks. The power system has a battery indicator. This must be watched with care.

Battery use without recharge varies. It depends on the age and condition of the batteries. Temperature and other factors also have an effect. The time may be extended by--

Elevating the TOW launcher and raising the ramp before turning the engine off.
Manually traversing the turret. Raising or lowering the 25-mm gun or 7.62-mm coax the same way.
Using radio listening silence. (Use wire when time permits.)
Using interior lights as little as possible.

The platoon leader can extend time without restart. He does this with a silent watch plan. He chooses which BFVs will observe and for how long. At times, the whole platoon sector can be observed by each BFV. Then, one BFV at a time can be used. This extends the watch time to the maximum. At other times, two BFVs are needed to cover the sector. They can then be used in pairs, and rotated. In time, all BFVs will need to recharge their batteries. The platoon leader should direct this. All the BFVs should start their engines at the same time, and run them at fast idle.

NOTE:

The thermal imagery sight of the integrated sight unit must be considered. It needs about 10 minutes to cool down enough to be fully effective. If attack is imminent, all sights should be ON. This drains power. It limits silent watch times. When rotated, watches should overlap by 10 minutes. This gives time for the new team's sight to cool.

Local Security

This consists of mounted and dismounted security.

Mounted Security. This is observing from the vehicle. The BFV is also prepared so that it does not become a security hazard.

The platoon leader should assign each squad an area to watch over. The Bradley commander and gunner can best do this. They are elevated in the turret and have access to the weapon's sights. In daylight, the optical sights and binoculars are used.

In the evening stand-to, these steps should be taken:

Maintain noise and light discipline.
Be fully sure the 25-mm gun and 7.62-mm coax ammunition boxes are fully loaded.
Activate and test the turret drive and turret stabilization.
Run the BFVs engine enough to be sure the batteries are charged. Then, all BFVs will be ready to assume silent watch.

Dismounted Security. This is provided by the rifle teams. In daylight, they observe in their assigned sectors of defensive fires. At night, positions may be moved forward, or they may move closer to the BFVs or the tanks in the company team.

The rifle teams observe with the naked eye, binoculars, and their nightsights. They also listen for the threat. It is hard for vehicle crews to listen. This is because they are closed in the vehicle and subject to its noise.

OTHER LIMITED VISIBILITY CONSIDERATIONS

Limited visibility can give platoons and squads some concealment. They should make the fullest use of this. To do this, they must deal with several factors.

Night Factors

At night, objects may look distorted. Ranges can be hard to estimate. Dark objects seem to be more distant than light ones. These things can be compensated for. Use either the scanning or off-center viewing techniques. On a clear night, the naked eye can pick out land relief and colors up to 400 meters. With a full moon, the naked eye can spot a moving man at about 240 meters. With binoculars, this is increased to 700 meters. Other factors limit observation even more. These factors are haze, smoke, dust, and fog.

Physical and Psychological Factors

Darkness may stimulate the imagination. This can burden the nervous system. It can create a sense of insecurity that can lead to panic. The eyes and ears are more sensitive at night. Soldiers using STANO devices should be given a chance to rest at least every 30 minutes. They should be rotated every 1 1/2 to 2 hours. This avoids eye fatigue. Sleep plans must be set up and enforced. If not, the soldiers' fighting ability can degrade.

POSITIONS

The platoon leader must use the time when visibility is good to prepare for when it will be limited. He designates positions for vehicles and crew-served weapons ahead of time. The positions in good visibility should be such that they need not be moved. The distance of the move should be kept short. Routes to and from positions should be named ahead of time. The thermal sights of the Dragon are limited in firing through smoke and haze.

In limited visibility, the platoon leader may have to reposition rifle teams and BFVs. They may need to be closer to the designated engagement areas. They may need to use alternate engagement areas. The assigned engagement areas may be beyond the range of observation. Another reason to reposition is to cover gaps between units. It may also be necessary to cover alternate avenues of approach. These can be created by the reduced ranges of the weapons systems.

Any repositioning of forces should take place soon after limited visibility begins. Moves are along routes that were reconnoitered ahead of time. They lead into positions that were also named ahead of time.

COMMAND AND CONTROL

Command and control at the platoon level means the control and synchronization of the BFV and dismount forces. As a rule, the platoon leader locates with the maneuver element. If one is used, it will most likely be the mounted element. The platoon sergeant will then locate with the dismount force.

Fire Control Aids

In the defense, command and control are vital. Limited visibility makes them hard to achieve and maintain. Good command and control begins in the fighting positions. Each of these must have aids to control fires. These aids are the sector and aiming stakes. They are shown in Figure 25.

Aiming stakes. These are used to aid the soldier in firing his weapon on dangerous avenues of approach.
Sector stakes. These are used on the right and left to define the sector of fire. They also prevent firing into adjacent positions by accident.

FIGURE 25. AIMING AND SECTOR STAKES.

Range Cards and Sector Sketches

These are integrated to coordinate control. The 25-mm gun and TOW have the most need for target reference points. It is hard for them to estimate distances at long range. TRPs should be chosen out to the limit of the weapon's range. This can be done by careful map study. It can also be done by pacing or driving the distance. Tanks may be available; their laser range finders can be used to mark or verify TRPs.

Other Control Measures

The platoon leader may use other control measures. Tracers can be used to identify point or area targets. Pyrotechnics may also be used. They indicate lifting, shifting, or concentrating of fires.

COORDINATION

The platoon leader must coordinate with adjacent platoons. He must coordinate--

Sectors of fire for night firing of weapons systems.
Repositioning of forces in limited visibility.
Security measures to secure the front and flanks.

The platoon leader must position his STANO equipment and night vision devices. They should have overlapping fields of observation in the platoon's sector of fire.

Integrated Sight Unit (ISU)

This must be manned and used to the fullest extent. A surveillance plan must be set up. This assures that sectors of observation overlap. Use of the ISU requires that the Bradley engine be started. This must be done about every two hours to charge the batteries. All Bradleys should be started at the same time. This keeps the threat from knowing how many are on the position.

OCCUPYING A DEFENSIVE POSITION

As a rule, the techniques used in good visibility also apply in limited visibility. When possible, the BFVs and dismount force should be on the same position. This is to simplify command and control. The position should first be reconnoitered. Stealth should be used at all times. Light and noise discipline must be enforced.

Reconnaissance

There are a number of actions that the platoon leader must take during the reconnaissance. He must--

Ensure that no threat forces are in the position to be occupied.
Identify threat avenues of approach (mounted and dismounted).
Identify likely threat overwatch positions.
Choose engagement areas, if they are not assigned by the company commander.
Choose primary, alternate, and supplementary positions for the BFVs and rifle teams.
Identify dead space to the front, and set up a plan to cover it.
Choose locations for OPs and the command post.
Confirm locations of adjacent platoons and companies.
Choose target reference points, sectors of fire, and other control measures.
Choose routes into and out of positions.

A reconnaissance in limited visibility must do the same as above. The platoon leader must use great care in this. The STANO device he uses should have roughly the same capabilities as his weapons systems.

When time permits, the platoon leader should go forward and carry out the reconnaissance. He then goes back to the platoon position and brings the squad leaders forward in his BFV. He should then assign the--

Rifle team and BFV positions.
Sectors of fire.
TRPs.
Engagement areas.

The squad leaders should then go back to the platoon position. They issue orders to occupy and prepare the forward positions. The platoon then moves forward.

In some cases, there will not be enough time for the tasks listed above. The platoon leader may require to take his squad leaders forward for the initial reconnaissance, or he may bring the whole platoon forward to an assembly area. This should be near the defensive position. He then does the reconnaissance with his squad leaders.

As the platoon members occupy the positions, they perform the work priorities.

The platoon leader must decide how to fight his forces. He must look closely at whether to fight both the BFVS and dismount force from the safe or different positions. In limited visibility, fire control is simpler if both are in the same position. The positions are also easier to occupy.

CONCLUSION

The defense will often have to be done in limited visibility. The platoon leader must know the needs under these conditions. He must consider how it affects his men and equipment, and he must be able to take the steps needed to compensate for it. The Bradley platoon is better equipped for this condition than any of its kind. The platoon leader must make full use of this advantage.

Learning Event 2: IDENTIFY TECHNIQUES USED BY THE BRADLEY PLATOON FOR PLANNING AND CONDUCTING AIR DEFENSE OPERATIONS

In this learning event, you will learn the nature of the threat air attack and their tactics. You will see what measures to take to avoid air attack. Then, you will learn how to engage threat air targets.

GENERAL

Threat air forces will be able to control part of the battlefield airspace. The Bradley platoon must be able to defend against air attack. This is done by making full use of--

Cover and concealment.
Camouflage.
Dispersion.
Early warning.

The best way to avoid an air attack is to conceal. Platoons must also be able to use their weapons well in air defense. Threat aircraft can attack any ground force whose location has been discovered. Sighting a few soldiers or vehicles can expose a whole unit.

Attacks will be swift and unexpected. Early warning of a probable attack is needed. This gives troops a chance to take cover. This warning may come down through normal command channels, or it may start with Bradley commander, air guards, or local OPS. All Bradley commanders and OPs should have airwatch instructions.

THREAT TACTICS OF JET AIRCRAFT

Threat jets work in two teams of two aircraft each. They use high speed for surprise and survival. As a rule, they strike along the long axis of a target. This gives them a better chance for hits. They try to attack out of the sun to gain surprise. Threat jet aircraft weapons include--

Automatic guns.
Rockets.
Bombs.
Cluster bomb units.

With guns and rockets, they can fire from a distance. They must fly over or near a target to use conventional bombs. They will make two runs over a target. Bombs are dropped on the first run. Rockets and cannons are used on the second.

A common threat tactic is to attack with one team. The second team follows 1 to 3 miles behind. The teams try to surprise the target, and divert attention and defensive fire. When the lead team spots a target, it tells the trailing team. Then, the lead team pops up in full view of the target. This draws fire to the lead team.

The trailing team has not yet been seen. It flies in at high speed for a low altitude attack. The attack is, as a rule, level and under 1,000 feet. Cluster bombs are dropped along the target's axis. The lead team then makes a sharp reverse turn. They attack the target close-in. Guns and rockets are fired, or dive-bombing is done.

The target may be surprised by the lead team and fail to take evasive action. The trailing team will then get the maximum effect with cluster bombs, or the target may only evade the first attack and fail to concentrate fire on the lead team. This team will then get maximum effect with rockets and bombs on the return pass.

The best defense against attacking jet aircraft is--

To know the threat air tactics, and do not be surprised by the trailing jet team.
To immediately mass volume fire on any attacking jet. At the same time, disperse and evade.
Make the fullest use of all small arms to fire at the target.

THREAT TACTICS OF ATTACK HELICOPTERS

Threat forces have some of the most heavily armed helicopters in the world. Attack helicopters fight in teams of two or more. They are more agile and maneuver better than jet aircraft. They can use ground cover and concealment while they engage from from standoff positions. A number of weapons can be used in support of this action.

57-mm free-flight aerial rockets.
Antitank guided missiles.
General purpose bombs.
12.7-mm machine guns.

Attack helicopters will be used a great deal in forward areas to give close air support. This is aerial fire support for the attacking forces. (It is like the A-10 support for US forces.) Attack helicopters will also be used for combat air assault in friendly rear areas.

The attack helicopters will be used for antitank fires. These are ATGM fires, such as the AT-2 Swatter or the more advanced AT-6 spiral. They will provide air-to-air interdiction. This is done as a secondary mission, along with one of the other combat roles. After they fire the ATGMs, attack helicopters will sideslip. This gives a quick drop in altitude. They then withdraw out of sight.

The best defense against threat helicopter is--

To immediately concentrate volume fire on any attacking helicopter within range.
To take evasive action and disperse.
To create a smoke screen between the BFV and the attackers to counter their weapons (mainly the ATGM).

TARGET ACQUISITION AND ENGAGEMENT

Air Guards

While mounted, the Bradley commander should act as an air guard. He has the best position in the BFV to do this. However, he is also required to spot ground targets. His field of view is not toward the sky at all times. Other members of the crew must aid in air guard duties. This may be done by opening the cargo hatch and placing one or two men in it. The field of view from the cargo hatch is limited, but it does not give a view to the flanks or rear of the BFV.

Where to Look

A map reconnaissance should be done. This should cover the direction of movement or area of operations. It helps to pinpoint likely areas from which an air attack could be made.

Possible attack helicopter positions are--

Back of wood lines.
Ridgelines.
Folds in the terrain.

These should be marked out to at least 3,000 meters. Other areas must also be approached with caution. These are restrictive terrain, defiles, and narrow valleys. The platoon may have to close in at these places. Moving close together, BFVs make a very good target. Air attack can be made along the long axis of movement.

How to Look

Attacking aircraft must be seen soon enough for the platoon to react. Air Guards must keep up a constant alert for hostile aircraft. One technique is used for flat terrain, another for hilly. In both, the watcher should focus on a distant object often. This may be a cloud, or a terrain feature. If this is not done, the eyes tend to relax. Distant objects then become blurred.

In flat terrain, in daylight, the guard should search the horizon. Use short eye movements, from object to object. More detail registers this way.

In hilly terrain, in daylight, the guards use the horizon as a starting point. Prominent features are used as points of reference.

Searching for air targets at night is much like searching for ground targets. Techniques include short, jerky abrupt movements of the eyes. Off-center vision is also used. In this, the watcher looks slightly to the side of an object. This prevents an image from fading. To aid night vision, cup the hands around the eyes. This shields out distracting light.

What to Look For

The searchers should be alert for--

Sun reflection from aircraft canopies or cockpit windows.
Blade flash from rotating helicopter blades.
Smoke or vapor trails from jet aircraft, missiles, or rockets.
Dust or excessive movement of treetops and bushes. This may be caused by downwash from helicopter blades.

Searchers should also listen for noises. They may hear helicopter blades, or jets breaking the sound barrier. Nightsights or binoculars can be used. They help pick out distant targets not seen with the naked eye.

When to Engage

Rules to engage aircraft should be in the unit SOP. These rules are based on policies of higher headquarters. When there is no SOP guidance, the following is suggested:

Immediately engage all attacking aircraft.
Engage threat aircraft not attacking your position only when told to do so. Do not be arbitrary in making attacks. To do so may compromise your position.
The best defense may be passive measures. These are camouflage, cover, and concealment.

How to Suppress

Likely areas for the threat to hide should be suppressed. Such places are behind hills and treelines. Suppression can be achieved as for ground targets, with indirect fire. Mortars, artillery, and the BFV's weapons are used for this.

AIRCRAFT ENGAGEMENT

Aircraft are engaged for a number of reasons. These are--

To destroy the aircraft, if possible.
To force the aircraft away from friendly positions.
Force the aircraft to fly higher. It can then be destroyed by friendly forces.
Spoil the aircraft's aim while it engages friendly forces.

Vehicles must take evasive action when attacked or when engaging. The effect of the hostile aircraft's fire is then less. Evasive actions should include--

Seeking cover and concealment.
Keeping vehicles dispersed.
Moving with frequent changes of speed and direction. This is done while turning away from the hostile aircraft's axis of attack.
Avoiding the use of lights at night.

BFV WEAPON'S CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS

The 25-mm gun and 7.62-mm coax can elevate to +60 degrees. The 25-mm gun has three rates of fire. These are single shot, 100 and 200 rounds per minute. In air defense, the 200 round per minute rate is used. Bursts of 25 round of HEI-T are fired (unless the target is a Hind). This gives a rapid rate of fire, and does not use too much ammunition. If the target is a Hind, APDS should be used.

The 7.62-mm coax has a cyclic rate of fire of 650 to 950 rounds per minute. The maximum effective range is 900 meters. A jet aircraft flies a crossing course at high speed. The 7.62-mm should be used to engage it, rather than the 25-mm gun. Helicopters may also fly a crossing course at high speed. They are also then engaged with the 7.62-mm coax. The ready load for the 7.62-mm coax is 800 rounds. An added 1,540 rounds is stored. The 7.62-mm coax is used for several reasons. It gives a greater cyclic rate of fire. The stowed load of ammunition is larger. Reload time is faster than for the 25-mm gun.

The BFV has a ring sight, mounted on the outside of the turret. It is in front of the Bradley commander's hatch. The ring sight is used when firing the 25-mm gun (HEI-T), or the 7.62-mm coax at slow-moving aircraft. The rear sight is made up of the pointer post and aperture ring. The front ring sight is marked with sighting crosshairs and three speed rings. Each of the speed rings is spaced for a target lead of 50 miles per hour. An estimate of the aircraft's speed is needed. The lead to hit the target can then be computed. The rear aperture sight has an aperture ring and a pointer post. If APDS is used on the Hind, less lead is needed. This round has a flatter, faster trajectory.

The front sight crosshairs are aligned ahead of and in line with the aircraft's line of flight. The Bradley commander looks through the rear sight. He leads one ring for each 50 miles per hour of target speed.

NOTE:

The pointer post should be put on the target. The target is engaged with the 7.62-coax. A continuous burst is fired at the lead point.

ENGAGING FAST-MOVING AIRCRAFT

Jet aircraft are best engaged with a continuous burst from the 7.62-mm coax. This is because of their speed. When the target is flying a crossing course, a lead of 200 meters is used. This is the length of two football fields. Fire is directed ahead of the aircraft. The aircraft then flies through the machine gun's cone of fire. Do not try to track or traverse with the aircraft. It flies too fast for this. The dismount force also fires on the aircraft. They use the same 200-meter lead for jets. For helicopters, a 50-meter lead is used. This is half a football field. If the aircraft is flying directly toward the BFV, fire is aimed slightly above the aircraft nose. This is true for any type of aircraft.

A second technique can be used on high-speed aircraft. Choose a reference point, or a series of them. The platoon leader alerts the platoon to get ready. As the aircraft nears a reference point, he gives an order. "ENEMY AIR, REFERENCE POINT TWO--FIRE." All weapons are raised to a 45-degree angle over the reference point and fired.

ENGAGING HOVERING HELICOPTER

This type of target is engaged with 25-mm gun. The gunner's integrated sight unit is used. Range to the target is estimated. The stadia lines in the sight reticle are used to do this. A quick check of the map is done for the target's location and range. Reference points of known range are used, or the range can be estimated by sight. Rounds are adjusted until they hit the target. The Hind is about the same height as a BMP. The integrated sight unit is more accurate than the ring sight. The 25-mm gun has greater effect than the 7.62-mm coax. A 200 round per minute rate of fire is used. Bursts of 25 rounds of HEI-T are fired. APDS is used for Hinds. The aim point is slightly above the fuselage. At longer ranges, tracers may look as if they are striking the target when they are really going over it.

ENGAGING THREAT AIRBORNE/AIR ASSAULT FORCES

These troops will be used often in the attack. They may be dropped from helicopters or transport aircraft. At times, no landing sites are available. They may then rappel from their helicopters. Troops carrying helicopters should be engaged as soon as they are sighted. If rappeling troops are sighted, engage the helicopter. It is a better target than the troops.

It is harder to engage airborne soldiers. They are dropped from fast-moving aircraft at high altitudes. They fall too fast to track effectively. When using the 7.62-mm coax or the M60, a lead must be taken. This is to compensate for the rate of fall. Use a lead of two man heights beneath the dropping soldier.

Pilots who have bailed out of disabled aircraft are not airborne troops. To engage them violates the covenants of the Geneva Convention.

CONCLUSION

Platoons must be alert for hostile aircraft, as well as for ground targets. These can be destroyed or suppressed by the BFV's weapons. All weapons, including small arms, are used.

US troops must know the threat's air tactics. Rules for engaging aircraft should be part of the SOP. When attacked, the platoon must take evasive action and engage the aircraft. Airborne and air assault troops are also aerial targets and are engaged.

Learning Event 3: IDENTIFY TECHNIQUES USED BY THE BRADLEY PLATOON FOR PLANNING AND CONDUCTING DISENGAGEMENT OPERATIONS FROM A DEFENSIVE POSITION

As the threat closes, the company or company team commander will decide how long to hold defensive positions. He bases this on orders from the task force commander. The company or company team may be required to disengage and displace to subsequent positions. A platoon defends a part of a company or company team. It may break contact with the threat--

To defend from another battle position.
Prepare for a counterattack.
Delay.
Withdraw.
Prepare for some other mission.

In this learning event, you will learn how to plan and conduct the disengagement.

FIRE AND MOVEMENT

Fire and movement to the rear is the basic tactical for disengaging. All available fires are used to stop the enemy and allow platoons to move away from the enemy. The company or company team commander may move his platoon and mass fires to stop or slow the enemy advance before beginning the movement away from the enemy. A heavy volume of antiarmor fire will force the enemy to dismount his infantry and thus slow his mounted advance. Artillery and mortar HE fire and smoke will also add to the enemy's confusion, slow the momentum of his mounted attack, and help to conceal the movement of friendly units. Small arms and indirect fire fire can be used against an attack by dismounted troops.

Breaking Contact and Rearward Movement.

These actions are shown in Figure 26. A base of fire is formed to cover other units moving away from the threat. One unit acts as the base of fire. They hold the threat off. This is done with fire, or by holding terrain that blocks his advance. The other units then move to break contact.

When the moving unit gets to the next position, it provides the base of fire. This covers the rearward movement of the forward unit.

FIGURE 26. BREAKING CONTACT AND REARWARD MOVEMENT

Fire and movement is repeated until--

Contact is broken.
The units pass through a higher level base-of-fire force.
The units are in the next position to resume their defense.

Mounted Attack

Against a mounted attack, antiarmor weapons are used as the base of fire. For this reason, movement of those weapons must be closely controlled. Normally, improved TOW vehicles move back first. These are followed by BFVs, then tanks.

Dismounted Attack

This attack may be faced in restrictive terrain, or visibility may be limited. The ITVs and tanks may then have to move first. The BFVs and rifle teams will cover them.

Tactics

The tactics used to disengage may vary. This depends on how the platoon is deployed, and the plan of the larger force. Other factors may also enter. However, some actions will apply in all cases.

The BFV's firepower is used to the fullest to cover rearward movement.
BFVs should back out of a position and move. They try to keep a terrain feature between the BFV and the threat.
Turret weapons stay pointed in the direction of the threat. Firing port weapons are manned and ready to fire. The rear ports are most important. This is crucial when the squad is at reduced strength.
Rapid movement is one key to success; the other one is an effective base of fire.

PLANS FOR A DISENGAGEMENT

These may be a part of any defensive plan. At times, rifle teams are deployed. Plans must be made for rapid remount. There are two ways to simplify this. One is to keep the teams mounted. The other is to keep them with the BFVs.

At times, the BFVs and rifle teams fight apart. Then, remount points and routes to them must be rehearsed. The platoon remount point can be--

Near the dismount element position.
Near the BFV position.
Between the two.

Within the remount point, covered positions should be chosen. These should allow for easy remount, even in limited visibility. Squad leaders must make sure their men know where the remount points are, and the routes to them.

They must also know where the squad BFV is at that point. Routes to the remount point should be covered. They should allow speedy movement for both elements. To be considered in planning are--

BFVs are faster and more protected than dismount troops.
BFVs often shift from one firing position to another. Each must have a route to the remount point.
Routes should be marked. They should be reconnoitered by all leaders and drivers.

HOW THE DISMOUNT ELEMENT DISENGAGES

Without the BFVs, there are three ways for the dismount force to disengage. Simultaneous disengagement can be used when covered by fire. All teams move at the same time. When the element must cover its own movement, it can use two methods. One is by team, and the other is by thinning the lines.

Simultaneous Disengagement

In this method, the teams assemble and move as one force. They go as fast as possible to the remount point, using movement techniques.

This method is favored when speed is crucial. The disengagement element must be covered by overwatching fires. The threat has not closed on the dismount force; or, they cannot effectively fire at it; there may be obstacles that slow the threat. In short, this method can be used when the threat cannot close off the position. It can also be used when other elements can provide good cover.

Disengagement by Rifle Teams

This is used when the dismount force must cover its own movement. One or two teams stay in the position as a base of fire. The rest of the force move to the rear. Teams left to cover must fire into the element's whole sector. This covers the movement of the others. Sectors of fire are adjusted as needed. This gives better coverage of the sector.

The teams left in position disengage when the rest of the force is in a position to cover them. Movement to the rear by alternate teams continues until contact is broken. Once contact is broken, the disengagement is complete. The dismount force then moves to the remount point.

This method has the advantage of being simple. The rifle teams stay together. It is used when one or two teams can give good cover for the whole sector. Disengagement by rifle teams is shown in Figure 27, below.

FIGURE 27. DISENGAGEMENT BY RIFLE TEAMS.

The first frame of the figure shows three rifle teams. Each is covering a sector of fire. The three sectors of fire overlap, and cover the whole sector. In the second frame, the two flank teams disengage. The one team that remains has to adjust fire. They now cover the same area that was covered by all three. Note that the threat is closing. In each frame, he is nearer. By the third frame, he has reached the position, but the team that was there has already moved to the rear. Cover was given by the other two teams.

Disengagement by Thinning the Lines

In this method, men are chosen from each rifle team. Often, one man from each fighting position is chosen. These men disengage and move to the rear. The men still in position become the base of fire. They cover the movement.

When the rearward moving men are in position, they provide the base of fire. The rest of the force then moves to the rear.

The Dragon has a 65-meter minimum arming range. Normally, it is wise to move the Dragon first. The platoon and squad leaders move last. As one group disengages, the men who stay in the position increase their rate of fires. This keeps the threat from overrunning the position. The process goes on until contact is broken.

This method given an even distribution of fire across the sector. It is used when no one rifle team can cover the whole sector because close terrain or limited visibility prevents it. Because teams are separated, control is more difficult than when disengaging by teams. Disengaging by thinning the lines is shown in Figure 28.

FIGURE 28. DISENGAGEMENT BY THINNING OF LINES.

Disengagement of Rifle Teams When Employed With the BFVs.

The BFVs and rifle teams may be in the same position. As a rule, the rifle teams move to the rear, while the BFVs provide a base of fire. The BFVs then quickly move to the rear. They link up with the infantry, load them, and move out. The rifle teams may use any of the techniques described above to disengage. The method chosen will be dictated by a number of things. These are the--

Threat situation.
Terrain.
BFVs ability to serve as a base of fire.
Type and amount of overwatching fires.

HOW THE FIGHTING VEHICLE ELEMENT DISENGAGES

Because of the BFVs speed, firepower, and protection against small-arms fires and artillery shell fragments, it is usually best for the dismounted element (when deployed) to disengage first while covered by the BFVs. But if the BFVs are not in a position to support the dismounted element by fire or the dismounted element is heavily engaged, the fighting vehicle element may have to disengage first and move to a position to assist the dismount element in disengagement. Whichever method is used, there are two basic ways the dismount element can disengage.

If the BFVs are covered by another force, simultaneous disengagement may be used. If the BFVs must cover its own movement, it disengages by pairs. These methods are similar in concept to those used by the dismounted element. They are shown in Figure 29.

FIGURE 29. DISENGAGEMENT METHODS.

Simultaneous Disengagement

In this method, the BFVs move quickly as one unit. Normally, rule, this method is used when the BFVs are covered by another force, and speed is the most crucial factor. If the rifle teams are mounted, the entire platoon moves. The new position is named by the company or team commander. If the rifle teams are deployed, the BFVs move to the remount point to pick them up, or it may have to attack the threat by fire from a new position. This will allow the rifle teams to disengage. Once the rifle teams have disengaged, the BFVs again disengage.

Disengagement by Vehicle or Pairs of Vehicles. This method is used when the BFVs must cover themselves. One, two, or three BFVs are left in place to give the base of fire. The rest move to the rear. The base of fire must cover the whole sector until the other BFVs reach a position they can use to give a base of fire.

The number of BFVs left to give the base of fire varies. It depends on the enemy situation and on how quickly the BFVs must disengage. As a rule, one pair gives the base of fire, while the other moves back.

The BFVs which are getting the heaviest fire are disengaged first. Other BFVs, ITVs, or tanks must be able to cover the sectors of the disengaging BFVs. If this is not done, the threat will quickly move through the gap they leave.

In all cases, the BFVs keep up fire and movement to the rear until they have disengaged, or until they are in a position to give a base of fire for other forces. Execution must be aggressive and well controlled. The dismount force uses covered and concealed routes to move to the rear. The BFVs cover by stepping up their rate of fire. Turret weapons stay in the direction of the threat. Firing ports are manned as soon as the rifle teams remount.

The platoon leader should request indirect fire and smoke to cover the move. HE is used against threat troops, and smoke is used to screen exposed routes the platoon must cross. The BFVs smoke generator is also used. If breaking contact is hard, the smoke grenade launchers should be used.

The platoon may need direct fire support to disengage. The platoon leader should request it. The covering fire of other forces may not be enough to let the platoon move. They may then have to use both mounted and dismounted fire and movement.

During disengagement, the commander of the larger force may give the platoon directions. They may have to cover the movement of other platoons. This may be done by holding terrain, or they may occupy battle positions to fire into assigned areas.

CONCLUSION

In this learning event, you have seen how the Bradley platoon disengages from the defense. The methods used by both the BFVs and the dismount force were covered. The disengagement is a crucial move. It must be done with speed and control. This means it must be well planned. The platoon leader must be prepared in order to do this.

Learning Event 4: IDENTIFY TECHNIQUES USED BY THE BRADLEY PLATOON FOR PLANNING AND CONDUCTING DELAY AND WITHDRAWAL OPERATIONS FROM A DEFENSIVE POSITION

In this learning event, you will learn how the platoon conducts delays and withdrawals. The platoon does not conduct these singly. They act as part of a company or company team. Platoons and squads have the same basic tasks here as in other defensive operations. They are modified to fit the concept of the larger force.

DELAY

A delay is fought to slow the advance of the threat. It trades space for time. If possible, it stops the threat. At times, the threat's strength, or the risk to friendly forces, will be too great. The threat is then engaged to force him to deploy.

Just as the threat seems ready to mount his assault, the delaying force disengages. They withdraw to a new position. The threat must then remount, move forward, and prepare for another assault. The delaying force may use any tactic needed. They may attack, ambush, or raid.

The platoon performs tasks given by the commander of the larger force. Most of these are standard defense missions. The platoon may--

Emplace obstacles.
Defend a position.
Fire into assigned sectors or engagement areas.
Provide security.
Prepare in-depth battle positions.

The remount is a crucial part of the delay. BFVs must be in a position to make full use of their long-range fields of fire. They must also be able to support the rapid redeployment of the platoon to the next position.

WITHDRAWAL

In the withdrawal, the force frees itself for a new mission. This may be with or without threat pressure. The method the company or company team commander uses to withdraw depends on enemy pressure.

Withdrawal Under Pressure

This is done when the threat is attacking or is expected to attack. Generally, the company or company teams covers its own disengagement or withdrawal. Platoons disengage by fire and movement. They mass fires to move away from the threat.

Withdrawal Not Under Pressure

This is used when the threat is not attacking. The commander thinks he can use stealth to withdraw before the threat can react. A detachment left in contact (DLIC) may be used to give cover. The DLIC protects the main body by deception or by resistance when needed. The make up of the DLIC is directed by the commander of the larger force. It may be made up of a squad from each platoon, or it may be one platoon from the larger force or any other combination of forward forces. The platoon or squad, as part of the DLIC, may shift to cover the sector of the withdrawing forces. This should be done only when needed. Too much movement may alert the threat. If they are spread too widely, there may be command and control problems.

The platoon may serve as the DLIC for a larger force. In this case, the company team executive officer (21C) or the platoon leader is the DLIC commander. A squad may stay in the platoon position while the rest of the platoon withdraws. That squad is part of the DLIC. It is controlled by the company executive officer or one of the platoon leaders.

The DLIC tries to deceive the threat. To do this, they feign the company or company team's function. They must be ready to detect and repel threat attacks. This allows the main body to withdraw safely. Part of the main body's ammunition and missiles may have to be left with the DLIC.

The withdrawal not under pressure is best conducted in reduced visibility. The main body rifle teams and BFVs should choose remount points ahead of time. These are to the rear of the positions they hold. Squad leaders should reconnoiter routes to the remount points. The withdrawal can then be done quickly and with little confusion. The rifle teams mount the BFVs. The platoon(s) then move quickly along a named route to their next position.

The DLIC commander will direct the DLIC to withdraw. They must disengage quickly, since they are exposed. They may move along assigned routes to assemble. Then, they move out to the next mission.

Learning Event 5: CONDUCT A DEFENSE BY A BFV PLATOON DURING MOUT

Urban areas usually sit astride or dominate high-speed avenues of approach through or around the urban area. If urban areas cannot be bypassed easily, they may reduce the momentum of the enemy's attack.

While defending on urban terrain, tanks and BFVs will dominate streets and other high-speed avenues of approach. This forces the enemy to dismount and use the buildings on either side. Dismounted infantry is used in buildings to cover the streets, as well as the building, floor, and room entrances. Care must be taken when positioning tanks and BFVs inside buildings because flooring may not support their weight.

Bradley commanders must take care to preclude damage to the 25-mm gun and TOW launcher when working around and inside of buildings.

In an urban area, the enemy is greatly restricted in his movement and observation. Defensive positions must be carefully selected to provide mutual support between all elements. Leaders must realize that an urban defense can be quickly defeated by allowing the enemy to infiltrate through routes not covered by observation and fire, such as sewers or over the top of buildings.

As in the attack, most of the fighting is difficult when the elements are separated. The commander may tell the platoon leader which element to locate with. The typical missions of a platoon defending in an urban area are--

Providing direct fire support to destroy or suppress enemy positions.
Destroying enemy armored vehicles and direct fire artillery pieces.
Providing rapid, practiced transport to dismounted infantry, as required.
Reinforcing selected areas with fire and by transporting dismounted infantry.
Covering obstacles by fire.
Providing smoke screens to cover friendly movement.
Providing resupply of critical items.
Evacuating casualties as the mission permits.

In the defense, the BFV should be integrated into the platoon fire plan. The 25-mm gun and 7.62-mm coax fields of fire should cover streets and open areas. Because of the close engagement ranges, the TOW launcher will not often be used. Dragons and LAWs in the hands of the dismounted infantry and the main gun of the tanks will be the primary destroyers of enemy tanks. Dismounted antitank weapons cannot be fired from unvented or completely enclosed rooms.

CONCLUSION

This learning event covered the delay and the withdrawal. The lesson also covered other aspects of the defense. You have learned how to plan and conduct the defense in limited visibility. Air defense tactics were discussed. Methods of disengagement have also been covered here. Turn the page and complete the practice exercise before taking the examination at the end of this subcourse.

Military

Practice Exercise

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