CHAPTER 5
OFFENSE
Section I. INTRODUCTION
5-1. GENERAL
The chief purpose of offensive operations is to destroy the enemy and his will to fight. This destruction is best achieved by breaking through the enemy's defenses and driving violently and rapidly into the rear area to destroy his command posts, logistic bases, and fire support units. At times, offensive operations are conducted for other reasons, such as to seize terrain or determine enemy strength and disposition, or to deceive, divert, or hold the enemy.
5-2. SCOPE
Platoons and squads normally conduct offensive operations as part of a company or company team. Mechanized infantry units are well suited for offensive operations because of their firepower, mobility armor protection, agility and the dismount element's ability to close with and destroy the enemy. The primary offensive tasks performed by platoons and squads include:
In a movement to contact:
Overwatch tanks or other mechanized infantry units.
Lead mounted:
When no tanks are available.
To cross a water obstacle.
Lead dismounted:
In restrictive terrain.
To clear obstacles or possible ambush sites.
During limited visibility when the effectiveness of night vision devices is reduced.
Conduct actions on contact.
In an attack:
Attack mounted following tanks or attack mounted without tanks:
When enemy resistance is light.
When enemy antiarmor fire can be suppressed.
When the terrain allows mounted movement.
Attack dismounted supported by the carrier element, tanks, and improved TOW vehicles:
When the terrain or obstacles prevent mounted movement.
When the enemy has strong defensive positions and his antiarmor fire cannot be suppressed.
Assault an objective mounted.
Assault an objective dismounted.
Consolidate and reorganize.
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CONTENTS Section II. Movement to contact Section III. Attack Tactics and Techniques |
Section II. MOVEMENT TO CONTACT
5-3. GENERAL
When a unit is forward of friendly positions, moving toward but not in contact with the enemy it is conducting a movement to contact. Many offensive operations begin with a movement to contact. Its purpose is to gain or regain enemy contact and to develop the situation to conduct an attack. Movement to contact is usually characterized by limited information about the enemy.
Platoons and squads participate in a movement to contact as part of a company or company team using the movement techniques explained in chapter 4. The lead platoon in the movement to contact has critical missions. These missions are:
Protecting the company or company team from a surprise attack by providing early warning of enemy positions and obstacles.
Assisting the forward movement of the company or company team by removing obstacles or finding routes around them.
Defeating enemy forces within the platoon's ability.
Developing the situation rapidly once contact is made.
The remaining platoons within the company or company team are assigned missions and positions within the formation based on the movement techniques being used. Their missions normally include overmatching the lead platoon and reacting with fire and movement once contact is made. These techniques are explained in chapter 4 and other sections of this chapter.
5-4. PLANNING A MOVEMENT TO CONTACT
The company or company team commander normally assigns to the lead platoon, in a movement to contact, one or more march objectives. A march objective is normally a terrain feature selected at a place which is expected to insure contact with the enemy. The platoon may be instructed to seize the march objective or to bypass it if it is reached without enemy contact. The platoon leader should cover both these situations in his operations order so that further instructions are not required when the platoon nears a march objective.
A platoon is normally assigned an axis of advance to move on. An axis of advance provides the platoon leader flexibility to move as necessary to bypass obstacles or impassable terrain. It directs the platoon to move according to the commander's intention. The exact route selected by the platoon leader must keep the platoon oriented on the march objective and allow the other platoons of the company or company team to follow along with minimum difficulty.
Because the platoon leader does not know when or where he will make contact with the enemy he should select a route that will not restrict vehicle movement. The route should avoid terrain that would restrict mounted movement, such as draws, ravines, narrow trails, or steep slopes.
The line of departure, phase lines, and checkpoints are normally assigned to control and coordinate the forward movement of the company or company team. The lead platoon leader reports crossing all phase lines to the company or company team commander, but the platoon does not stop at a phase line unless told to. If necessary, the platoon leader may designate additional phase lines or checkpoints for internal platoon use to reduce the number and length of orders needed to control movement.
The platoon leader can designate target reference points (TRP) along the axis of advance to control fire and to designate targets. TRPs should be selected on likely enemy locations and avenues of approach. The platoon leader may assign squad responsibility for covering specific terrain in relation to TRPs. This helps maintain all-round observation and proper caliber .50/Dragon orientation during movement, and it helps insure that all likely targets are covered by at least one squad.
If the movement to contact is being conducted with two companies or company teams abreast, contact points may be chosen on terrain features between the two companies to insure physical coordination between the two units. The platoon leader must know if his platoon is to make contact with an adjacent company or if contact will be established by a trailing platoon. Contact points are normally designated:
If a location is critical (for example, a road crossing from one company's axis or zone of action into another's).
If face-to-face contact is needed to insure coordinated movement.
As a contingency measure in the event a strong enemy force is contacted and it is necessary to establish a defense.
Once contact is made with the enemy the platoon should not break contact unless ordered to by the company commander.
5-5. TACTICS AND TECHNIQUES FOR A MOVEMENT TO CONTACT
When conducting a movement to contact, a platoon moves using traveling overwatch or bounding overwatch as discussed in chapter 4. The platoon normally moves mounted to take full advantage of the speed and protection of the APC. At times, when moving through forested areas, towns, or where there is a possibility of an ambush, the platoon may lead with the dismount element. Defiles, bends in roads, or river crossing sites are all likely ambush locations. Dismount teams or engineers are deployed to breach obstacles, to find a route around impassable terrain, and to provide security. Dismounted operations should be kept to a minimum because they reduce the speed of the company or company team. Continuous friendly forward movement will reduce enemy reaction time and help to keep him off balance.
Platoon alertness is extremely important in a movement to contact. Because information about the enemy is usually limited, the platoon has to be prepared for any contingency. The rapid suppression of enemy antiarmor systems is critical on first contact.
The overwatch force should be prepared to provide immediate suppressive fire, especially with the caliber .50 machine gun. The platoon leader may pick one APC to be prepared to engage point targets, such as tanks or BMPs. This vehicle should be ready to fire the Dragon. This is advisable because it is quicker to change from the Dragon to the caliber .50 than vice versa. The platoon leader must keep in mind that the Dragon is a slow-firing system and speed of engagement is critical on first contact.
One of the major tasks of the lead element in a movement to contact is to protect the company or company team from surprise attack. The platoon must clear possible ambush sites unless otherwise instructed.
If a platoon is given the mission of moving along and clearing a road as part of the movement to contact, it must do this with care. The enemy will often lay weapons, mainly antiarmor weapons, on a bend in the road so that they can ambush lead vehicles without trailing vehicles being able to overwatch. A bend in the road and its shoulder may also be mined. Dismount teams check for mines and look on the far side of a bend in the road before moving around it.
When the platoon approaches a bend in the road that cannot be bypassed, it can clear the area as follows:
(1) The carrier element gets into an overwatch position where it can cover as much of the bend as possible and any likely enemy positions adjacent to the bend.
(2) Dismount teams clear the terrain on either side of the bend. High ground adjacent to the bend should be cleared first. The overwatch force must be prepared to support by fire and movement.
(3) Once the dismount teams clear the terrain adjacent to the bend, they check the road and shoulders for mines.
(4) The platoon moves around the bend where it can establish an overwatch force on the route and then continue movement.
A defile is an ideal ambush site because it restricts movement. The platoon checks a defile the same way it checks a bend in the road. Before the platoon moves into a defile, it should clear the terrain on both sides. The dismount teams then check the defile for ambushes, mines, and booby traps.
A bridge must be considered an obstacle or possible ambush site and approached as such. Before it is crossed, it must be cleared.
(1) The carrier element moves into an overwatch position where it can cover the terrain on both flanks of the bridge and the far side. A dismount team then checks the bridge and its approaches. This is best done by engineers, with infantry providing security. The dismount teams also reconnoiter for possible fording sites or bypasses.
(2) If a fording site or bypass is available, the dismount teams cross, secure the far side of the bridge, and establish observation posts before the bridge is checked.
(3) This method is the most secure, but it is very slow. If speed is important or a bypass or fording site is not available, the platoon can suppress the far side of the bridge and possible enemy positions on the far side with mortar or artillery smoke and high-explosive (HE) fire. The platoon then uses mounted bounding overwatch to the last covered position short of the bridge. Dismount teams can then move forward using bounding overwatch and check the bridge, while they are overmatched by the carrier element. Armored-vehicle-launched bridge (AVLB) may be used if available.
5-6. ACTIONS ON CONTACT
When a platoon makes contact, it must react quickly and aggressively. (Action upon enemy contact is commonly referred to as battle drill.) The platoon's actions in the first few seconds after contact may determine whether a battle is won or lost. Those actions must include several initial moves made almost simultaneously: suppress, deploy, report. The platoon leader then must:
Develop the Situation. The platoon leader should act quickly to determine the enemy's strength, composition, and disposition. He or his forward observer may call for indirect fire to suppress, and use fire and movement to close with the enemy force. He should not expose his APCs needlessly. The dismount teams normally remain mounted so that the platoon can move out quickly. The degree of resistance and type of enemy fire influence the platoon leader's recommendation to the company or company team commander on a course of action to be taken.
Choose a Course of Action. Based on his observation of the enemy the platoon leader can recommend several actions:
Conduct a hasty attack. If the enemy resistance is light, he can recommend a hasty attack to destroy the enemy force. He normally does not move to attack the enemy unless the team commander approves.
Bypass. If the enemy does not present a meaningful threat and bypass routes are available, the platoon leader can recommend that the platoon bypass the enemy position. He should not allow light enemy resistance to slow forward movement if bypass routes are available.
Fix and suppress. If there is strong enemy resistance and the platoon cannot maneuver, the platoon leader can have the platoon fires fix on and suppress the enemy. This is done to hold the enemy in position while the rest of the company or company team moves to conduct a hasty attack, uses engineers to breach obstacles, or bypasses.
Halt in covered position. When extensive obstacles are encountered that cannot be rapidly breached or bypassed, it may be necessary to halt in covered positions and deploy the dismount element while designated breaching forces reduce the obstacle. The breaching forces should be engineers when available; however, specially equipped and rehearsed members of the dismount elements may perform these missions when engineers are not available. Always reduce obstacles using suppression, obscuration, security and reduction (SOSR).
Report.
As soon as the platoon leader has reached a protected position, he should tell the company commander all he knows about the enemy. The information that he reports must answer the questions WHO, WHAT, WHERE, and WHEN.
Size. The size of the enemy unit is the number of troops seen--for example, 10 enemy infantrymen, not an infantry squad; or three enemy tanks, not an enemy tank platoon.
Activity. What the enemy was seen doing--for example, "emplacing antitank mines in the road."
Location. Where the enemy was seen. If a map is available, the coordinates are reported--for example, "GL 874461." If a map is not available, a key terrain feature is reported in relation to the location--for example, "on the Hann Road 200 meters south of the Ken River Bridge."
Unit. The unit to which an enemy soldier belongs may be difficult to determine. Bumper markings on vehicles are reported. Some countries have particular uniforms, headgear, and colored tabs on uniforms which identify the type unit. The unit's action may indicate its type, or the kind of equipment observed may be peculiar to a certain type of unit. For example, a light, armored vehicle may indicate a reconnaissance unit.
Time. The time when the enemy activity was seen, not the time of the report.
Equipment. All of the equipment the enemy was wearing or using is reported. If an item of equipment or a type of vehicle was not recognized, it is sketched and the sketch is submitted with the report.
Once the platoon leader has developed the situation and decided on a course of action, he updates his earlier report to the commander. In some cases, the commander may change the platoon leader's plan. Casualties are treated and evacuated as mission permits. Casualty reports are later submitted to update unit manning rosters.
5-7. OVERWATCH
When the company or company team is using bounding overwatch, the overwatch force must be ready once contact is made, to suppress enemy weapons which endanger the bounding force.
When a TL or gunner in an overwatch position spots an antitank gun or ATGM fired, or in position to fire, he immediately opens fire on that spot, at the base of the smoke trail, or at the gun flash, and gives the warning over the radio.
When the company or company team is using traveling overwatch, the overwatch platoon quickly fires on the enemy deploys to covered firing positions, and continues to fire. It avoids moving into areas where it may be caught by enemy fire directed at the lead platoon or fire that prevents it from maneuvering toward the enemy. The dismount element remains mounted to reduce vulnerability to enemy indirect fire and to allow the platoon to move quickly. The platoon continues to suppress the enemy until the lead platoon reaches covered positions. The overwatch platoon then engages only clearly identified targets or areas designated by the company or company team commander.
5-8. CONTACT VEHICLE LEADING MOUNTED
The first action on contact is to deliver a heavy volume of fire with the caliber .50 machine gun and with the 7.62-mm machine gun/SAW. Other weapons are fired at only clearly identified targets within their range.
The APCs that are exposed to enemy fire move rapidly to hull-down firing positions. Gunners continue to fire while drivers move the carriers.
When receiving enemy antiarmor fire, and if the return fire does not suppress them, squad leaders/TLs may choose to fire the smoke-grenade launchers to hide the vehicles from enemy gunners. Also, drivers must take evasive action.
To avoid an ATGM, a driver should drive his APC in an erratic, zigzag path at angles to the ATGM and vary the vehicle speed to make it harder for the enemy gunner to keep his crosshairs on the vehicle.
Another evasive action is to turn quickly to the right or left in the last seconds of the missile's flight.
The driver should also get some type of obstruction, such as trees, telephone poles, or bushes, between the enemy firing position and the carrier.
5-9. CONTACT VEHICLE LEADING DISMOUNTED
The dismount element may lead to clear an obstacle or likely ambush site, or to lead through a defile or town. In those cases, contact normally will be made at close range.
When fired on, the lead dismount team must return fire at once and take cover and report. The overwatch teams return fire to cover the leading team and, if possible, designate targets for the carrier element or the tank platoon.
If a dismount team spots an enemy tank or other armored vehicle, it can mark the vehicle for the carrier element or tank platoon using tracer fire from the SAW. Before this mark-by-fire method is used, the dismount element leader should contact the carrier element to be sure it is prepared to engage the vehicle. The enemy may return fire at the SAW if he is not engaged rapidly by the overwatching APCs, tanks, or ITVs.
If the dismount element sees the enemy first, it should hold its fire, deploy to covered firing positions, and report the situation to the platoon leader. However, if it is certain that the dismount element can destroy the enemy force with surprise fire, it should engage the enemy without delay.
Section III. ATTACK TACTICS AND TECHNIQUES
5-10. GENERAL
Attacks are conducted to destroy or capture an enemy force and to secure key terrain. An attack can be either hasty or deliberate. The basic difference between these two types of attack is the amount of time available for planning and preparation.
In an attack, platoons and squads move using fire and movement, taking advantage of all available cover and concealment. When attacking with tanks, the tanks will normally lead unless obstacles or enemy fire prevent mounted movement. Mechanized infantry platoons and squads can attack either mounted or dismounted.
The method of attack is normally determined by the company or company team commander. His decision is based on the mission, enemy, terrain, troops, and time available.
5-11. PLANNING THE ATTACK
The platoon leader begins planning the attack once he receives his commander's OPORD or FRAGO.
The platoon leader's plan, probably oral, should cover as a minimum:
Enemy.
Friendly.
(2) Mission.
(3) Execution (concept of the operation).
(4) Service support.
(5) Command and signal.
Once the platoon leader has plans for the above, he decides on the measures needed to control and coordinate the attack. Some of these measures will be specified in the company or company team commander's order. They usually include as a minimum:
(1) Attack position.
(2) Line of departure.
(3) Time of attack.
(4) Axis or direction of attack.
(5) Assault position.
(6) Objectives.
Phase lines, checkpoints, and visual signals are specified as required.
The attack plan should be prepared in as much detail as time and situation permit. Once the attack has begun and as the tactical situation changes, it may be necessary to alter the plan. Platoons and squad must be able to react to such changes rapidly.
5-12. ATTACKING MOUNTED
Mechanized infantry platoons and squads attack mounted with or without tanks when--
enemy resistance is light,
enemy antitank weapons are destroyed or can be suppressed, and
the terrain allows rapid mounted movement to the objective.
5-13. ATTACKING WITH TANKS
Tanks normally lead and place a heavy volume of fire on enemy positions. The APCs follow the tanks and deliver suppressive fire to the flanks and between the tanks with the caliber .50 machine gun, the SAW, and other weapons if not receiving artillery. TLs/GUNNERS MUST INSURE THAT THEY DO NOT SHOOT AT OTHER APCs OR FRIENDLY TANKS.
The platoon leader keeps his APCs close enough to protect the tanks against enemy close-in antitank fire, yet far enough behind so that fire directed at the tanks does not hit the APCs. Depending on the terrain, the platoon may move behind the tanks in line, in modified column, or follow the tanks by bounds.
5-14. FOLLOWING TANKS ON LINE
Following tanks on line permits the APCs to provide the best all-round protection for the tanks. The carriers are able to suppress targets to the flanks, and rear, and between the tanks.
The platoon leader's APC is the base vehicle. The other APCs guide on it. The platoon leader normally directs each APC to follow a particular tank to control movement left or right.
The flank squads have responsibility for covering the formation flanks. This includes the flanks of their own platoon and the tank platoon flanks. The caliber .50 machine guns normally are oriented to cover the flanks of the leading tanks. The SAWs (or M60 machine gun) and other infantry weapons are used to cover the flanks of their platoon when possible.
The center squads have responsibility for protecting the area between and to the rear of the tanks.
The use of the line formation does not mean that all four vehicles move abreast of one another. Each vehicle, as well as the tanks, must use the terrain and the appropriate movement techniques or fire and movement, as necessary.
Each squad leader/TL controls his APC's movement and directs its fire based on his position in the formation. He watches the platoon leader's APC to determine generally how far to the rear of the tanks he should be. If he loses sight of the platoon leader, the TL keeps his APC close enough to support the tank he is following. When a tank halts to fire or stops for some other reason, the following APC takes up a hull-down position until the tanks resume movement. If the tank is put out of action, the trailing APC either follows another tank or continues forward working from the same general position in the formation.
Fire from the SAWs or M60 machine guns and small arms is directed against close-in personnel targets. The caliber .50 machine gun is fired at distant targets and lightly armored vehicles, such as BMPs and BTRs. The platoon leader modifies the platoon's sector of fire based on its position relative to the tanks and the enemy.
5-15. FOLLOWING TANKS IN A MODIFIED COLUMN
APCs may follow tanks in a modified column when additional flank security is needed.
The platoon leader and one squad, in column, follow one flank tank. The platoon sergeant and the other squad follow the tank on the opposite flank. This allows the platoon to secure the flanks of the team as it attacks and helps the platoon to arrive at the objective with the tanks. Again, the force must use the appropriate movement techniques or fire and movement.
When using this technique, each caliber .50 machine gun is oriented to the front and flank. The soldiers in the cargo hatch facing the inside of the formation must be especially alert be cause they are providing the only protection to the rear of the tanks.
As soon as the terrain or enemy situation permits, the platoon should switch to the line formation, because it provides all-round tank protection. To switch to the line formation, the platoon leader and platoon sergeant move to the inside of the formation and the trailing squads move forward until they are on line with them.
5-16. FOLLOWING TANKS BY BOUNDS
Following by bounds provides more protection for the APCs and allows use of bounding overwatch and fire and movement. The use of this technique is important because the APCs have less armor protection than the tanks. This method, slower than moving with the tanks, is normally used when--
large open areas subject to long-range ATGM fire must be crossed, and
the terrain affords little or no concealment for enemy dismounted infantry that could engage the tanks with close-in antitank fire.
When following tanks by bounds, the platoon occupies a position that has cover and concealment and lets the platoon cover the tanks all the way to the next position. The caliber .50 machine gun and the Dragon will be the main weapons used to overwatch the tanks. The tank platoon may also bound within itself while advancing in order to add tanks to the overwatch force for security.
Once the tanks reach the next position, the APCs must move quickly forward to join them to maintain the momentum of the attack. This technique is used chiefly for movement between the LD and the objective. Because it does not afford the tanks close-in protection from dismounted enemy infantry, it is not used during the final assault on the objective.
No matter what technique is used, the final movement onto the objective and preparation for the assault may be mounted; or, if the enemy is well dug-in, it may be necessary to halt in covered positions and deploy the dismount element. (The assault is covered later in this section.)
5-17. ATTACKING WITHOUT TANKS
A mechanized infantry platoon may attack mounted when there are no tanks attached to the company or when the company team is attacking along two different axes with tanks on one and APCs on the other. The reasons for at tacking mounted without tanks are the same as when attacking mounted with tanks, but the effect of the attack will be degraded without armor. Careful analysis of the enemy capability is necessary.
The platoon leader selects the formation best suited to the situation and moves using the appropriate movement techniques. When covered by another unit, the platoon moves as a single maneuver unit to simplify control. It also may move by bounds, as when attacking with tanks. The platoon leader may bound one or two squads forward while the others lay down heavy suppressive fire. Each bound is made quickly to limit the enemy's time to detect and engage the bounding squads. Short, fast bounds are best.
If ordered to stop, each TL/gunner chooses a covered firing position and continues to engage enemy targets, or he places suppressive fire on the objective. The dismount teams remain mounted for protection from enemy indirect fire, and to eliminate delay if the platoon is ordered to move.
When attacking mounted with APCs, the platoon leader may elect to dismount before moving onto the objective. This may be necessary because the carriers would be vulnerable to close-in antiarmor fire or because of obstacles that restrict movement. THE DECISION TO DISMOUNT MUST BE MADE PRIOR TO BEING COMMITTED TO THE FINAL ASSAULT. The platoon leader must not stop APCs in the final assault to dismount in front of an objective if the platoon is exposed to the full force of enemy fire.
The platoon leader tentatively selects a dismount point that will provide cover and concealment for the dismount team while they get out of the APCs. He decides on the composition of the dismount teams, designates who is to control the dismount and carrier elements, and plans how he will assault the objective. Normally the carrier element initially will support the dismount element by fire. When its fire is masked by the dismount element, it moves quickly onto, across, or around the objective.
Attacking mounted depends on the enemy's strength, capability and disposition. This may be when time is critical and the added risk is warranted to accomplish the mission or when supporting fire destroys most of the enemy before the platoon reaches the objective. The platoon leader still should have an alternate plan for dismounted assault.
5-18. ATTACKING DISMOUNTED
The company or company team commander may decide to attack dismounted when--
the enemy has strong defense positions and enemy antiarmor weapons cannot be suppressed, or
there are obstacles that prevent mounted movement.
Dismounted attacks can be conducted during any degree of visibility. When illumination is used, the tactics and techniques for a dismounted attack are the same as during good visibility; they are covered in this section. The tactics and techniques used for dismounted attack during darkness, without illumination, or during other periods of limited visibility are covered in section IV.
The platoon leader usually deploys the platoon dismount element based on the orders of the company or company team commander. The dismount point may be on the friendly side of the LD, or on the enemy side if the terrain and enemy situation allow mounted movement forward of the LD.
Tanks, ITVs, and the carrier element normally support the platoon dismount element by fire as it closes with the enemy. The carrier element should not reveal its position until the dismount element has moved away from the vehicles and is out of the probable impact area of enemy fire directed at the carrier element.
The carrier element supports the dismount element from the best terrain available. Its weapons add to the fires of the dismount element by engaging enemy infantry with the M60 machine gun if left behind and manned, engaging lightly armored enemy vehicles with the caliber .50 machine gun and engaging enemy tanks with the Dragon. Company and battalion ITV fire complements and reinforces the antiarmor fires of the Dragons employed by the dismount element.
The dismount element should advance on a route that provides cover and concealment and keeps it from masking the carrier element's supporting fires. Each TL/gunner must know the route so that he can follow the movement of the dismount element and fire to support the movement.
Once the dismount element starts forward, the objective should be suppressed by the carrier element and preferably by indirect fire. This allows bold, rapid movement toward the enemy position because friendly fire forces the enemy to keep his head down.
At a designated assault position or when it comes under effective enemy direct fire, the dismount element deploys for the final assault on the objective. The assault position is usually the last covered and concealed location short of the objective. Normally, the platoon will not stop at the assault position but will continue to move as it deploys.
The platoon leader normally prescribes specific tasks or objectives for each dismount team. They may be oriented on the enemy the terrain, or both.
5-19. ASSAULTING THE OBJECTIVE
The purpose of the assault is to place violent and intensive firepower on the objective and move rapidly across it to destroy or capture the enemy as soon as possible. The term assault refers only to that phase of an attack when the attacking force actually closes on the enemy position. An assault is not a "charge" against an enemy position. It is a cautious, yet bold and aggressive action using fire and movement even down to buddy-team level and taking advantage of all available cover and concealment.
Mechanized infantry platoons and squads can assault an objective mounted or dismounted.
5-20. MOUNTED ASSAULT
The mounted assault is based upon METT-T and conducted most often when the platoon is attacking with tanks.
A mounted assault is best used when the enemy is occupying hasty fighting positions, and when the terrain in the vicinity of the objective allows rapid movement onto and across the objective.
The assault must be carried out rapidly with the tanks leading followed closely by APCs. As the assault force approaches the objective, the APCs should move closer to the tanks for added protection from enemy short-range antiarmor weapons.
The APCs use the caliber .50 machine gun and small arms weapons to suppress or kill enemy infantry dug in on the objective. Enemy soldiers will usually be down in their positions seeking protection from direct fire, so the soldiers manning their weapons from the cargo hatch must be extremely alert. Enemy antitank gunners may wait for the tanks and APCs to pass over or go by their positions, and then pop up and try to hit the vehicles from behind. It is most important that each carrier have all-round observation and fire. Troops should be prepared to throw hand grenades into bypassed positions from the cargo hatch.
Movement across the objective must be fast and continuous. Stabilized turrets allow tanks to continue moving while conducting fire and movement. The tanks and APCs should not stop until they have crossed the objective. The APCs must keep up with the tanks. If they get too far behind, they may not be able to adequately protect the flanks and rear of the tanks.
Once the tanks and APCs reach the far side of the objective, they occupy hull-down positions. Here, they can continue to engage any retreating enemy forces, continue the attack, or defend against a counterattack. If it is necessary to secure the objective, the dismount element is used to clear remaining pockets of enemy resistance and to secure prisoners. If necessary the platoon leader may direct some or all carriers to support the dismount element by fire.
The platoon assaults mounted without tanks in essentially the same way it assaults with them. It moves onto and across the objective as rapidly as possible without halting. Without tanks to cover part of the objective by observation and fire, the platoon leader must insure that his entire portion of the objective is covered. The wedge formation provides the best all-round protection for the platoon. It permits each squad to cover a specific part of the objective. It can be adjusted to allow fire and movement or a single rush. Small arms are used for close-in suppression out to 300 meters. The SAW and caliber .50 and M60 machine guns cover the front and the area beyond 300 meters. In an assault mounted under fire (artillery or small arms), it is critical that indirect fires suppress the objective and stop or shift only when masked by the mounted platoon's arrival.
5-21. DISMOUNTED ASSAULT
If the enemy is in well-prepared defensive positions or the terrain restricts vehicle movement onto the objective, the assault is dismounted.
If the attack initially is mounted, the infantry should be dismounted in a covered and concealed position that is as close to the objective as possible. Tanks and indirect fire weapons continue to place a heavy volume of fire on the objective while the dismount teams deploy This is done to suppress enemy gunners as the dismount teams get out of the APCs. (Dismount procedures are described in appendix G.) The carrier element joins in the suppression when the dismount element has moved away from the vehicles.
Normally the company or company team commander states when and where the platoon is to dismount, and what it is to do once on the ground. The platoon leader should specify in his attack order who will control the dismount teams (squad leader or team leader) and who will control the dismount element (himself or the platoon sergeant).
5-22. ACTIONS OF THE CARRIER ELEMENT
Positive control of the carrier element's fire is absolutely necessary so that the fire does not hit the dismount element. Within the company team, the commander will issue specific instructions for controlling supporting fires if the assault involves more than one platoon. Many times, though, the carrier element leader must use his own judgment to make fires as effective as possible. Supporting fires need to be near the dismount element to keep the enemy down in their fighting positions. The fires may have to be shifted without command as the dismount element advances.
There are several ways to coordinate the fires of the carrier element with the assault of the dismount element. The suppression provided by supporting fire is essential to the success of an assault. The technique used must be simple and effective. The techniques described in subsequent paragraphs also work when the platoon is supported by tanks and ITVs.
The carrier element leader puts his APC on the flank that is closest to the dismount element. He marks the near limit of supporting fire with fire from his caliber .50 machine gun. All other carrier teams distribute their fire toward the other flank.
The dismount element leader will tell the carrier element leader by radio or prearranged visual signal (for example colored smoke or star cluster) when to shift his fires. The carrier element leader will automatically shift supporting fires when he sees that the dismount element is getting too close to the fire.
This method can be used when the carrier element leader cannot see the dismount element. The dismount element leader signals the carrier element by using a smoke grenade, smoke streamer, or a star cluster. The pyrotechnic marks the dismount element's flanks. The carrier team leader then adjusts and offsets his fire away from the dismount element's closest flank in the direction of the enemy. The remaining carrier teams distribute their fire away from the dismount team using the carrier team leader's fire as a base.
Regardless of the method used to control fire, the carrier element moves onto the objective, as soon as possible, joining the dismount element. This normally will be when its fire is masked by the dismount element. The APCs should move rapidly to the objective as in a mounted assault and occupy hull-down positions near the dismount element. At this point, the dismount element and the carrier element must support each other. The dismount element should be given the mission of providing flank and rear security for the carrier element.
Once the dismount element begins to assault the objective, the company team commander may order tanks or another platoon to assault around to the opposite flank. This may be done to get around the objective, sealing it off and protecting against an immediate counterattack or stopping an enemy retreat. Strict fire control measures need to be established to coordinate the assault on the opposite flank.
5-23. ACTIONS OF THE DISMOUNT ELEMENT
If an assault position has been designated, the dismount element, if at all possible, deploys for the assault on the move. It should not stop in the assault position. Halting is dangerous and may cause loss of momentum.
When the dismount teams are generally on line, the dismount element leader moves them forward using fire and movement. The final assault is not a stand-up, on-line rush. In the assault, dismount team leaders lead by example because it is hard for oral orders to be understood. "Follow me and do as I do" is the way to lead.
Dismount team leaders must lead on through the enemy positions. They move using the best method for the situation. The soldiers follow that example. The advance may be by crawling or by short rushes from covered position to covered position. It must be aggressively done because the dismount element loses momentum quickly if it stops once it is near the enemy. As it fights its way through the objective (still using fire and movement), the dismount element must avoid exposing itself to fire from enemy forces behind or to the flanks of the objective. Soldiers must not bunch up and make good targets.
Normally the entire dismount element moves forward to assault the enemy, supported by tanks, ITVs, and the carrier element. When their fire is not adequate to support the assault, the dismount element leader may set up a base of fire composed of a dismount squad or a composite of machine guns, grenadiers, and automatic riflemen.
When an armored threat exists, the Dragon is carried by the antiarmor specialist, and it normally is kept under a squad leader's direct control. It is fired only at important point targets, such as enemy armored vehicles and key weapons. Usually the squad leaders will designate targets to be engaged with Dragon fire. Lacking proper Dragon targets, the antiarmor specialist fires his rifle, which is normally carried across his back. If it is determined that the Dragon would serve no purpose, it is left with the carrier team, and the gunner may deploy with only his M16.
When the dismount element begins to fire and move through the objective, actions by squad leaders are the key to fire distribution. Squad leaders move near the center of their team where their men can see them. Most of the time, they control fire by firing their own weapon into the area where they want their men to fire. They also can use arm-and-hand signals. At times, short, easily understood oral orders can be used, but in many cases orders will be drowned out by battle noises.
Since the squad leader is near the center of his dismount team, he fires his weapon to mark the center of the dismount team's objective. Men on his right and left fire to the sides of the point where his rounds are hitting. The squad leader also can use the grenadier to mark the center of the dismount team's objective with a smoke round. (The platoon leader can assign each squad a different color.) The squad leader too can use tracer ammunition or have the SAW stay with him and mark the objective.
As stated earlier, dismount team objectives during the assault are usually specific terrain features or specific enemy positions. The type of objective influences the kind of fire distribution the leader wants his weapons to have. He may want point fire or area fire (see fire distribution and control, appendix C). Since he may not be able to make his oral orders understood, and all of his men may not be able to see him, the squad should have an SOP for use of point or area fire. For example:
When the leader's marking fire hits a point that can be recognized as a bunker, firing port, or fighting position, then the team uses point fire.
When the marking fire hits a point that cannot be identified as an enemy position, the team uses area fire.
All leaders must strive to get a heavy volume of accurate fire on the objective, and they must make sure their men move forward aggressively. As the noise and confusion of battle makes control by voice difficult, leaders may move to critical points to make sure that their commands are understood and carried out. They also must see that men do not waste ammunition in the assault by random firing.
Assaulting troops, having closed on the objective, clear the enemy positions and move over the objective far enough to fire at any withdrawing enemy.
When the carrier element joins the dismount element on the objective, the dismount element should be prepared to support by:
Suppressing any remaining enemy positions as the carrier teams move across the objective.
Designating firing positions for the carrier teams on the far side of the objective.
Providing flank and rear security for the teams once they are in position.
The dismount teams and the carrier teams quickly occupy their assigned positions for consolidation to be ready for an enemy counterattack or to remount the APC and resume the attack toward the next objective.
To help coordinate and control the assault of two or more platoon dismount elements, the company commander may designate abase platoon. The dismount element leader in turn designates a base dismount team. Each dismount element guides on the company's base element. Teams guide on their element's base team.
5-24. FIRE SUPPORT
Fire support includes both direct and indirect fire. The purpose of this fire is to kill as many enemy as possible and to suppress the rest, keeping them from seeing or firing effectively, while the platoon moves toward or over the objective.
When a dismounted leader wants the carrier element to engage a specific target, such as a bunker, he must be able to direct its fire. Unless being used for some other purpose, a smoke round from a grenade launcher can be used as a prearranged signal. Another way is for the dismounted leader to adjust, by radio, using TRPs or landmarks--for example, "FROM THE BURNING BMP, LEFT 100 METERS, MACHINE GUN BUNKER."
Most indirect fire is planned by the company commander. But the platoon leader may request additional targets if needed. After receiving the company fire plan, the platoon leader should check to insure that fires are planned on all known or suspected enemy positions in front of, behind, and to the flanks of the platoon objective. If additional targets are needed, the platoon forward observer (FO) coordinates them with the fire support team chief.
An assaulting force should attempt to move with supporting fires as close to them as possible. The closer it is to supporting fires, the safer it is, because the fire will keep enemy troops down. Actually, the platoon leader controls indirect fire through the FO supporting the platoon. The platoon leader probably will not have time to tell the FO each time he wants to call for and adjust fire. So, he should explain to the FO before the assault begins what he wants him to do.
5-25. CONSOLIDATION AND REORGANIZATION
The platoon should consolidate and reorganize as soon as it takes an objective. This is done so that the platoon is prepared to:
Repel an enemy counterattack.
Continue with the attack.
An objective is held until the company commander orders other action. At times, especially with mounted assaults, the attack may be continued with little or no hesitation to exploit success. In this case, only required reorganization is done, and consolidation is unnecessary.
Consolidation consists of actions taken to secure an objective and prepare to repel an enemy counterattack. In his order, the company or company team commander normally designates platoon positions and actions to be taken. The platoon consolidates an objective by:
Occupying the position designated in the attack order (APCs are moved into hull-down positions, if available, and assigned specific sectors of fire).
Establishing local security and mutual support between squads and adjacent platoons.
Eliminating any remaining pockets of enemy resistance and securing prisoners of war (PW).
Designating positions for the dismount teams if the commander wants them deployed away from the carrier teams. (This will normally be on a dismounted avenue of approach to the objective. The dismount teams prepare hasty fighting positions as quickly as possible.)
Reorganization includes all actions taken to prepare to continue fighting. Reorganization should be by SOP.
The squad leaders:
Replace key members who were lost (team leader, driver).
Replace gunners of Dragons and SAWs.
Redistribute ammunition among dismount team members and get ammunition, as required, from the carrier.
Move casualties to a covered position, get medical aid to them, and arrange for their evacuation (as required).
Report to the platoon leader the situation, casualties incurred, and status of ammunition.
The platoon leader:
Replaces key personnel such as the platoon sergeant or squad leaders who were lost.
Informs the company or company team commander of the platoon's status.
Oversees evacuation of casualties.
Requests needed resupply.
Sends PWs under guard to the PW collection point.
Section IV. LIMITED VISIBILITY OPERATIONS
5-26. GENERAL
Mechanized infantry platoons and squads frequently will be required to conduct offensive operations during limited visibility. These operations must not be considered unusual or special. Units must train and operate well under all conditions.
Limited visibility attacks may be conducted to:
Retain momentum of an operation started in good visibility.
Achieve surprise.
Exploit success.
Rupture strong enemy defenses.
Minimize effectiveness of enemy antiarmor fire.
Gain a more favorable position to continue the attack when visibility improves.
5-27. EQUIPMENT CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
Mechanized infantry platoons and squads are better equipped for attack operations during limited visibility than any comparable units in the world (see appendix I).
The driver's infrared periscope allows him to move the APC. Night vision goggles let the squad leader and TL/gunner observe from their opened hatches to control movement and provide close-in security. The Dragon's thermal sight gives the gunner the capability to see and engage targets under almost any visibility condition.
Even though the APC has the capability to operate during limited visibility it has limitations. The driver can see to drive, but the range and fixed field of his viewer scan limits his ability to provide close-in security. Soldiers riding in the opened cargo hatch have difficulty observing, and they can temporarily be blinded by bright flashes of light caused by weapons fire and explosions. This results in security being limited, especially to the rear and flanks.
Because the vehicle is relatively "blind" during darkness, the squad leader and TL/gunner, wearing their night vision goggles, should observe from their opened hatches. The platoon sergeant can use his standard binoculars. In addition, soldiers in the cargo hatch should have starlight scopes mounted on their weapons, and their weapons should be loaded with tracer ammunition for target marking.
Weather, smoke, and dust can lower the effectiveness of the platoon's limited visibility equipment. In some cases, the thermal sight's capability of penetrating fog or smoke exceeds the capability of the missile's guidance system to track and control the missile. This means that the gunner may not be able to hit a target with the Dragon, even though the target is in range and seen through the sight.
The effectiveness of image intensification devices (driver's infrared periscope, night vision goggles, starlight scopes) is reduced by rain, falling snow, fog, and smoke. Since the devices also intensify light from the moon and stars their effectiveness is reduced on dark nights. These visibility limitations dictate slower rates of movement, require tighter formation and limit further the platoon's flank security. The ability of the TL and gunner to detect targets and control fires is reduced, and coordination between the carrier element and the dismount element is difficult.
Leaders should check the effectiveness of their night vision equipment before an operation, to determine the effects of light, weather, and smoke on the equipment. Visibility conditions also can change abruptly during an operation. This requires constant reevaluation of equipment capabilities and limitations.
5-28. MOVEMENT DURING LIMITED VISIBILITY
Movement in offensive operations during limited visibility is more difficult than during good visibility. Leaders must consider the likelihood of enemy contact and the difficulty of control when selecting movement techniques and formations. Distances between men or vehicles usually need to be shortened to ease control. Finally leaders must guard against a false sense of security by thinking darkness will conceal them. They also should assume the enemy has night vision devices and they should use cover, concealment, and smoke as they would in daylight.
Navigation is more difficult moving either mounted or dismounted. If possible, routes should be reconnoitered during good visibility. If ground reconnaissance is not possible, a detailed map reconnaissance is a must, keying on terrain features to be crossed and distances involved. Ridges, roads, railroads, creeks, and other identifiable features should be used as a guide. Movement should parallel rather than follow such terrain features, because the enemy often will have them covered by observation and fire. Friendly mortar and artillery fire can also be used to assist navigation. By planning targets along the route on prominent terrain features, the platoon leader can call for these fires as necessary. These targets are on standard features which the platoon leader would avoid. This will allow him to call for specific target and verify where he is without endangering the platoon.
The element of surprise is the attacker's greatest advantage when moving dismounted. Light and noise discipline must be enforced. When the platoon is moving mounted, the sound of the APCs may alert the enemy. However, he may have difficulty locating the platoon, because it is difficult to pinpoint a moving vehicle by sound only. Lights are a greater danger. Even blackout lights and faltered lights inside the vehicle are visible through the vision blocks and can be detected from great distances with passive night vision devices.
5-29. MOVEMENT FORMATIONS IN LIMITED VISIBILITY
Mounted.
The column and wedge formations are the easiest to control. The platoon leader should place his APC as the base vehicle in either formation. In a column, the platoon leader's APC should lead. In a wedge, the platoon leader's vehicle should be in the left front of the formation. Both formations make rapid movement easy by allowing the drivers to guide on the base vehicle with minimal supervision by the squad leaders or TLs/gunners. This frees the squad leaders and TLs to concentrate on detecting and identifying targets.
The line formation is the most difficult to control. When the driver is looking through his inbred periscope to the front, he cannot maintain visual contact with a flank carrier. Therefore, the line formation should only be used to move short distances as when rapidly crossing a danger area or assaulting a position. If the driver is given night vision goggles, he can improve his flank vision and the line formation can be used for greater distances.
Dismounted. Many of the same considerations for mounted formations apply to dismounted formations. Dismount teams and elements move closer together for better control. Soldiers should be close enough to see each other. Leaders should place themselves near the front of the formation for movement control.
5-30. MOVEMENT TECHNIQUES IN LIMITED VISIBILITY
When visibility is limited by darkness only the mechanized infantry platoon should be able to move using any of the movement techniques, making only minor adjustments to formations as previously discussed. When smoke, fog, or falling snow limits visibility the platoon's ability to provide overwatch may be reduced. In all conditions of limited visibility the lose of security to the flanks and rear is a major consideration in movement planning.
When using bounding overwatch, the platoon leader should consider bounding two vehicles instead of one to increase the security of the bounding element. This would allow one vehicle to observe to the left front and the other to the right front, making up for the gunner's limited field of view.
A platoon moving by traveling overwatch keys its movement on the lead APC. The distance between the lead APC and the platoon is based on the ability of the driver and TL of the overwatch vehicles to keep the lead vehicle in sight.
When the traveling technique is used, the lack of flank security becomes an even more important consideration. The platoon, traveling in a staggered column, is vulnerable. This technique would be used only when the chance of enemy contact is slight and speed of movement is necessary.
5-31. ATTACKING DURING LIMITED VISIBILITY
Attacks during limited visibility require more detailed preparation than attacks during good visibility. In limited visibility objectives are normally smaller and distances to them shorter. Plans must be kept simple but complete and must be understood by all. If time and the enemy situation permit, leaders should reconnoiter routes and observe the objective area during good visibility. Indirect fire should be planned for suppression, and for illumination during darkness. Whether the attack is mounted or dismounted, every soldier should be rehearsed and questioned on his portion of the plan to insure complete understanding throughout the platoon.
There are several ways the company or company team commander may attack during limited visibility. If the attack is to be done during darkness, he may illuminate the battlefield using indirect fire. If he wishes to take advantage of the limited visibility conditions or cannot adequately illuminate the battlefield, he may attack mounted, dismounting short of the objective as appropriate. He may also decide to attack dismounted and use stealth to gain surprise.
An illuminated night attack is conducted similar to a daylight attack. The techniques discussed in section III of this chapter apply.
Illumination makes control easier and allows rapid movement. It also improves the enemy's ability to detect advancing targets. Illumination fires are planned and called as needed--normally for the final assault. Smoke can be used to cut down the effectiveness of enemy battlefield illumination and some of his night vision devices. Indirect HE fire may be used to hide the sound of the APCs as well as to suppress enemy gunners. Thermal sights work with or without light equally well and should be used by the carrier element using Dragons as they fire into the objective.
The commander may decide to attack mounted to maintain attack momentum against an enemy occupying hastily prepared positions. This allows platoons to close rapidly on the objective, and it conserves the strength of the dismount teams. As during good visibility the platoon moves mounted to the last covered and concealed position short of the objective. The dismount element may then dismount and assault the objective while the carrier element provides covering fire. During the assault, the carrier element leader must closely control the element's fires to avoid endangering the dismounted soldiers. A signal such as a pyrotechnic device should be prearranged to designate when the carrier element should lift or shift fires from the objective. As soon as the objective is seized, the carrier element should quickly move to the objective area. The platoon should have a prearranged coded signal such as a blinking, filtered flashlight to help the carrier element locate and join with the dismount element. The dismount element leader should select positions on the objective for the carrier teams and require each dismount team to provide a ground guide to simplify the carrier's movement into positions.
Even though a nonilluminated attack is planned, the platoon leader should plan illumination from the LD to the objective so, if needed, it is available. Once the dismount teams start their final assault, illumination on the objective may help them detect targets to fire on and thus rapidly eliminate enemy resistance.
The platoon leader also should plan for the use of smoke during the attack. If the enemy fires illumination, the platoon leader can call for indirect fire smoke or use smoke grenades to screen movement. Smoke also will reduce the effectiveness of some of the enemy's night vision devices.
The main advantage gained by attacking dismounted and using stealth is surprise. Attacks by stealth can be conducted during any condition of reduced visibility. The concept of a dismounted attack using stealth is to get as close as possible to the enemy's position without a fight--then, before he can react, surprise and overwhelm him. The objective will be relatively close to the LD, usually within range of supporting fires from the carrier element.
The mission of the carrier element is to support the dismount element by fire or by fire and movement. In the company or company team commander's OPORD, the carrier element is normally assigned a firing position, a sector of fire, and a route to the objective. The firing position may be along the LD or to the rear of the LD. The carrier element leader designates a firing position and a sector of fire for each carrier team. He also specifies how he plans to control their fire. He then points out, for the carrier element, the route that the dismount element will move along, and the portion of the objective to be occupied by the carrier element.
The carrier element should move into the overwatch position during good visibility. If the noise of the vehicles will alert the enemy it moves as close as it can to the overwatch position and halts until ordered to occupy it. From there a dismounted observer can be sent forward to observe the sector of fire and assist the carrier teams when they move into the position. The carrier element then supports the dismount element by fire, or by fire and movement, as directed by the company or company team commander. The carrier element normally will not move or shoot until the dismount element begins the assault.
Once the objective is seized, the carrier element moves as quickly as it can to the objective and occupies hull-down positions just as in a daylight attack. The dismount element should provide guides to lead the vehicles across the objective to their positions.
When the company or company team commander plans a nonilluminated attack by stealth, he normally will use the following control measures.
Attack position. It should be short of the LD, provide cover and concealment, and permit easy entry and exit. The attack position may be occupied only long enough for the unit to receive final instructions and insure coordination.
Line of departure (LD). An LD is designated to coordinate the commitment of attacking units or scouting elements at a specified time of attack.
Point of departure (PD). Because it is critical that all movements be closely coordinated, the dismount teams are assigned a specific point to cross over the LD.
Release points (RP). Each company commander releases control of his platoons to the platoon leaders at the platoon RP. RPs are far enough back to let units deploy before they reach the squad RPs and the probable line of deployment. Platoon/squad RPs are used during dismounted attacks.
Route. The company commander normally picks the route from the company RP to the platoon RR Platoon leaders pick routes from the platoon RP to the squad RP.
Probable line of deployment (PLD). The company commander plans to complete deployment along the PLD before moving forward. If the attack is not yet discovered at the PLD, the unit advances quietly until discovered or ordered to assault. The PLD is generally along an easily identifiable terrain feature perpendicular to the direction of attack.
Objectives. The company commander assigns each platoon an objective, which is part of the company objective. These should be easy-to-identify terrain features.
Limit of advance. To keep friendly supporting fires from falling on friendly dismounted troops, the company commander may designate a limit of advance. It should be a terrain feature that is easy to recognize even during limited visibility. The assaulting elements must not advance beyond this feature. The limit of advance allows use of supporting fires beyond the objective without endangering friendly troops.
The company or company team commander may organize a patrol to guide the dismount elements from the attack position to the point of departure on the line of departure and on to the probable line of deployment. Also, this patrol may, in rare cases, secure the PLD while the dismount elements are moving forward. Patrols are normally composed of two to four men from each dismount element, with the company or company team commander designating the patrol leader.
Except for small objectives, a platoon's dismount element normally attacks dismounted as a part of a company dismounted operation. Each dismount element may have a separate small commander objective or a portion of the company objective. The dismount elements move from the assembly area to the attack position as part of the company's attack force, using the formation and movement techniques specified by the company or company team commander. Final coordination is made in the attack position, and then the dismount elements move toward the LD. The commander may move the attack force to the LD along a single route under his control, or for short-distance attacks he may designate separate routes for each dismount element. Once across the LD, movement is continuous, but the rate of advance is slow enough to permit silent movement. The traveling technique with dismount teams in column normally is used to ease control and maintain stealth. If the attack is discovered during movement, and the element is close enough to the objective to begin the assault, the dismount element leader should immediately deploy his teams on line and begin fire and movement. Scattered enemy fire must not be taken as a loss of surprise and should not be cause to start the assault.
The dismount element should plan on using all of its dismounted night observation equipment to help control movement and to detect enemy positions. This equipment should include the two starlight scopes, the Dragon thermal sight, and perhaps the TL's/gunner's and driver's night vision goggles if they need them.
If enemy flares burst overhead as troops are moving, the troops quickly lie down until the flares burn out. If caught in the light of a ground flare, troops move out of the lighted area quickly and quietly.
If the attack is not discovered before reaching the PLD, the dismount element should deploy the dismount teams on line and inform the company commander when the teams are fully deployed. On the commander's order, the dismount elements move silently forward, guiding on the base element and using overwatch as much as possible.
The dismount element assaults the objective on order or when the attack is discovered. As in good visibility the assault must be aggressive, using cover-to-cover rushes. The assaulting force must quickly gain fire superiority, by heavy fire, so that it can safely move. Tracers can be used to improve accuracy and to help control fires. Soldiers must not assault past the limit of advance.
As soon as the objective has been seized, the dismount element leader should so inform the carrier element leader. Guides should be posted to meet the vehicles and lead them into position. The rest of the dismount element eliminates remaining pockets of resistance and prepares for a possible enemy counterattack. OPs are posted but not beyond the limit of advance.
Section V. OTHER PLATOON OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS
5-32. GENERAL
Exploitation and pursuit normally follow a successful breakthrough of the enemy's defensive position. By exploiting and pursuing, units seek to keep the enemy off balance, to strike at targets of opportunity and to complete the destruction of the enemy forces or their capability to resist. Platoons participate in exploitation and pursuit operations as part of a larger force.
Both exploitation and pursuit consist of rapid mounted movement over long distances during good and limited visibility. Dismounted action is kept to a minimum. Platoons can expect to conduct frequent mounted bypass and hasty attacks.
During the exploitation and pursuit, brief fragmentary orders are normally used. There is little time for detailed planning. SOPs must be relied on for proper coordination and control.
5-33. EXPLOITATION
The purpose of exploitation is to prevent the enemy from putting together an organized defense or conducting an orderly withdrawal. This is accomplished by rapidly advancing toward the enemy's rear, bypassing small pockets of resistance. Deep objectives are assigned; these normally include key terrain, logistical elements, and command and control centers.
5-34. PURSUIT
The purpose of the pursuit is to complete the destruction of an enemy force that has lost its ability to defend. Objectives assigned are normally the enemy units being pursued. Terrain objectives may be assigned to simplify control. When a terrain objective is assigned, a unit can expect orders to continue the attack shortly after it seizes the objective. Consolidation is seldom carried out and there will be little time for reorganization. Platoons in the pursuit operate as part of a direct-pressure force or as part of an encircling force.
The direct-pressure force keeps enemy units moving so that they cannot rest, regroup, or resupply. The force conducts hasty attacks to maintain contact and forward momentum. If contact is lost, units conduct a movement to contact to regain it.
The encircling force attempts to move around the flank of the retreating enemy to block its route of withdrawal. The encircling force moves as fast as possible along the routes avail able to seize a chokepoint or a major terrain obstacle. The force may set up a defense, or it may be ordered to attack the flank of the enemy force.
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