CHAPTER 6
DEFENSE
Section I. INTRODUCTION
The purpose of defensive operations is to repel an enemy attack and destroy the attacker. Defensive operations may also be undertaken to hold critical terrain, to gain time, or to wear down the enemy. The platoon defends as part of a company or company team and completes tasks assigned to it by the company or company team commander.
6-2. DEFENSE TASKS
The platoon's defensive tasks include:
Destroying enemy tanks, BMPs, and BTRs with dismounted or mounted Dragons and LAWs.
Suppressing enemy ATGM fires with the caliber .50 machine gun, dismounted machine guns, SAWs, grenade launchers, and rifles.
Repelling dismounted enemy attacks.
Providing close-in security for tanks and ITVs during limited visibility and in restrictive terrain.
Locating the enemy and providing security by manning observation posts and conducting patrols and ambushes.
Building obstacles to slow, stop, or canalize the enemy, and providing security for obstacles.
Conducting platoon-size counterattacks or counterattacking as part of a larger force.
In the defense, the company or company team usually is supported by additional ITVs, artillery, mortars, and engineers. Each supporting element is deployed to increase the company or company team's combat power, and to reduce its vulnerabilities. Tanks, if present, are placed to exploit their mobility firepower, and armor protection. ITVs are positioned to exploit their long-range antiarmor fire and pinpoint accuracy. Engineers emplace obstacles, dig defilade positions, and clear routes, to make terrain more favorable for defense.
The defense often involves fast, frequent movement among battle positions and in counterattacks. Platoons and squads must be able to respond to short-notice changes in mission and must be able to fight immediately from a new battle position. Thus, platoons must develop and practice SOPs and, with these, learn to exploit the mobility and firepower of the APC. The order to occupy a position should trigger a series of automatic actions by the entire platoon.
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CONTENTS Section II. Planning the Defense Section III. Defensive Tactics and Techniques |
Section II. PLANNING THE DEFENSE
6-3. GENERAL
When the platoon's mission is to defend, the company or company team commander must explain his defense plan. He does this by issuing an operation order. From the order, the platoon leader learns:
(1) The platoon's mission.
(2) The commander's concept of how the defense will be fought.
(3) The position of the platoon in the company or company team defense.
(4) The platoon's sector of fire or engagement area.
(5) The fire support that is available.
(6) The evacuation or destruction procedures for damaged vehicles.
(7) The evacuation procedures for friendly casualties.
(8) The place prisoners of war are to be taken.
(9) The special signals that are to be used.
(10) The on-order missions for the platoon.
(11) Position and mission of units on the flanks and in the rear.
On receipt of a company operation order, the platoon leader begins his troop leading procedures (discussed in chapter 3). His first step is to plan available time. Once this is done, he can issue a warning order to his key personnel (platoon sergeant, squad leaders, and forward observer). A warning order alerts the platoon personnel to the mission, tells them what preparation they are to complete, and tells them where and when to receive the platoon leader's complete order. This gives the platoon leader time to reconnoiter and prepare his operation order. He begins this process with an analysis of the mission, enemy, terrain, troops, and time available. The rest of the platoon gets ready for the mission.
Often, the platoon leader will have to issue simple, fragmentary orders and rely heavily on SOPs because the tactical situation requires immediate response. Regardless of the time available, the platoon leader should do as many of the troop leading procedures as possible.
6-4. OPERATION ORDER
When the platoon leader has completed his analysis, made his reconnaissance, and developed his plan, he then completes his order. The order should follow the standard five-paragraph operation order format and be issued orally. Where possible, SOPs should be referred to in the order. This helps to shorten the order. When possible, the platoon leader should give his order from a point overlooking (or on) the platoon's defensive position. The order must explain what is to be done, where, how, when, and by whom. The squad leaders then give orders to their squads.
6-5. PRIORITY OF TASKS
To help the platoon use available time efficiently, the leader should establish task priorities. Normally these are in the SOP, but they can be modified by the platoon leader or company commander. In most situations, the first five tasks are:
(1) Establish security
(2) Position APCs and dismount teams.
(3) Emplace crew-served Weapons and designate sectors of fire and FPLs.
(4) Clear fields of fire.
(5) Prepare fighting positions.
Some of these tasks may be done at the same time. Additional tasks can include preparing range cards, emplacing obstacles, preparing alternate and supplementary positions, and laying wire for communications. The order in which these are to be accomplished should be specified. Coordination with adjacent squads and platoons must be continual throughout the planning and the execution phases. Camouflage netting (radar scattering) should be used whenever possible when the APC is placed in position. The nets greatly add to concealment by breaking up the regular shape of the vehicle and deny ground and aerial observation.
Section III. DEFENSIVE TACTICS AND TECHNIQUES
6-6. GENERAL
The platoon's defense must capitalize on the APC's firepower and mobility the Dragon's thermal vision equipment, and the dismounted infantryman's fighting capability.
Carrier teams with Dragons are best used to defend against mounted attacks along open avenues of approach.
Dismount teams are best used to defend against dismounted attacks along avenues that restrict mounted movement.
Seldom is it possible to position the carrier teams where they will not be subject to dismounted attack, or to position the dismount teams where the enemy cannot use his armored vehicles. Thus, it is essential that leaders and commanders carefully position and control carrier teams and dismount teams to make the most of the platoon's total combat power. This is not a simple matter: the APC firing the caliber .50 machine gun or Dragon is chiefly a medium-range weapon system, but the dismounted infantryman is most effective at short ranges. If the two are properly used, they complement and mutually support each other.
6-7. CONTROL TECHNIQUES
When the entire platoon is mounted, control is relatively simple. When dismount teams are deployed, control becomes difficult. There are two ways to control the carrier teams and dismount teams:
(1.) Squad Control. The carrier team and dismount team remain under squad leader control only when the two teams are collocated. Because the two teams are together, this method improves control, concentrates firepower, and increases security. The squad leader may remain in the vehicle or dismount, whichever allows him to best control the entire squad and influence the fight.
(2.) Platoon Control. When the carrier teams are positioned away from the dismount teams, the teams are formed into a carrier element and a dismount element, each under platoon control. In this situation, the platoon leader must decide which element has the most important mission and from which position he can best control the entire platoon and influence the action. Whichever element the platoon leader decides to be with, he controls the other element through the platoon sergeant.
6-8. METHODS OF EMPLOYMENT
There are three methods of employing platoons in defensive operations:
(1) Carrier teams and dismount teams on the same battle position.
(2) Carrier element and dismount element on separate battle positions.
(3) Platoon mounted on a single battle position.
No matter what the method of employment, the entire platoon and each element and team can be assigned primary alternate, and supplementary defensive positions.
In a primary position, a unit or individual can best fight to accomplish the assigned mission.
In an alternate position, generally adjacent to the primary position, a unit or individual can perform the original task when the primary position becomes untenable or unsuitable.
In a supplementary position, a unit or individual can accomplish a task that cannot be accomplished from the primary or alternate positions.
6-9. CARRIER TEAMS AND DISMOUNT TEAMS ON THE SAME BATTLE POSITION
When possible, the platoon defends with the carrier teams and the dismount teams on the same battle position. This method takes greatest advantage of the platoon's defensive capability. Using it, the platoon can defend against mounted or dismounted attacks, move rapidly to another battle position, or conduct a counterattack.
Within the battle position, the carrier teams may be positioned with the dismount teams, or they may be forward of, on a flank of, or behind the dismount teams.
The carrier teams remain with the dismount teams when the terrain provides both teams with good observation, fields of fire, and cover and concealment. This is the preferred method because it simplifies control, insures mutual support, and facilitates remounting the vehicles.
The platoon leader assigns each squad a primary position and sector of fire, and he may also assign alternate positions and sectors. He gives a general location for each observation post (OP) and designates which squads will man OPs.
The platoon leader supervises the positioning of each APC, insuring that it ties in with the other APCs according to his concept of the defense. Each squad leader positions his dismount team (complemented by the vehicle's fires) to provide security oriented on dismounted avenues of approach.
When using this technique, each squad leader retains control of the dismount team and the carrier team. Each squad leader positions himself where he can observe and control his squad's operations. A squad leader can usually observe the battlefield and control the carrier fires better from the carrier.
Initially, and when it is necessary to gain better observation and fields of fire and thus take better advantage of mounted weapons, the carrier element can be employed forward of the dismount element. In that case, the dismount element is positioned to the rear to avoid unnecessary exposure to enemy fire directed at the APCs. The dismount element should use available time to prepare fighting positions and obstacles. When the enemy attacks, the carrier element normally will engage enemy formations at maximum range and, when endangered, move to alternate positions to the flank or to the rear of the dismount element. The timing of this move is critical. While maximum advantage can often be gained by employing the carrier element forward, the carriers become more vulnerable to enemy fire as the enemy closes.
In most situations, the squad leaders will stay in the same element with the platoon leader. Because the carrier element will be the first to see and engage the enemy, and because timing of movement to alternate positions is so critical, the platoon leader may decide to stay with the carrier element. The platoon sergeant then would be the dismount element leader. Sometimes, tactical considerations dictate other methods. For example, when the primary fight is expected to be dismounted, it may be wise to leave the squad leaders with the dismount element while the platoon leader stays forward with the carrier element. As the situation develops, the platoon leader may move with the carrier element or dismount in a position where he can better control both elements. This allows the platoon leader to stay abreast of the situation and still provide maximum control where the primary fight is expected.
The platoon leader should assign each carrier team a primary forward position and at least one alternate position. He should also assign positions to be occupied after displacement. Similarly, the platoon leader or platoon sergeant assigns each dismount team a primary and alternate position and a sector of fire, which complement the carrier element's positions once the vehicles have displaced rearward. Carrier element leaders should also plan supplementary positions to maintain security in case one or more vehicles are disabled during the initial engagement.
When the battle position has two avenues of approach, one with long-range and one with short-range fields of fire, the carrier element is positioned on the same battle position but to the flank of the dismount element. This allows good positioning of the carrier element and the dismount element because each is positioned on terrain best suited to its capabilities. Such positioning may allow for a more determined defense, but, in the heat of battle, remounting the carriers by the dismount element may be difficult.
The carrier element and the dismount element should not be separated beyond mutual supporting distance. The platoon leader should personally direct the positioning of each APC, if possible; assign sectors of fire to the dismount team; and assign primary and alternate positions and sectors of fire to crew-served weapons and ground-mounted Dragons. If the platoon leader is called to the company command post on arrival at the battle position, the platoon sergeant lays in the platoons. In that case, the platoon leader has the responsibility of checking the platoon defense on his return.
During reduced visibility, the platoon leader may find he needs to reposition a dismount team--for example, nearer to the carrier element--to provide local security.
When covered positions are available for the dismount element but not for the carrier element, when the terrain is too restrictive for vehicle movement, or when multiple mounted avenues of approach exist, the carrier element is positioned on the same battle position but to the rear of the dismount element. The platoon leader should position the carrier element so that it can overwatch the dismount element. He may decide to keep the carrier element in a centralized hide position.
This allows the carrier element to make a quick move and mass its fires on whichever avenue of approach the enemy uses. (Hide position will be discussed later.)
This method is best suited to avenues of approach that represent a dismounted threat.
6-10. CARRIER ELEMENT AND DISMOUNT ELEMENT ON SEPARATE BATTLE POSITIONS
The company or company team commander may decide to employ the carrier element and dismount element separately. With this method, the separated elements may be less able to support each other.
Control is difficult when the elements are separated since the two elements will have different missions. The company or company team commander may choose to control both elements directly by having both element leaders on the company or company team command net. If so, the commander will normally tell the platoon leader which element to be with.
Leaders of dismount teams must plan operations that do not need the support of their vehicles. The quantity and type of weapons, ammunition, mines, equipment, and supplies to be with the dismount element must be taken into account. How long the teams will operate separately and how quickly the dismount teams must be able to remount are important planning considerations.
The carrier element may be employed well forward to perform a specific mission. When its mission is completed, the carrier element displaces and rejoins the dismount element. This method may be used when the commander wants to use the APCs for antiarmor engagement well forward of the dismount element's intended positions. In such fights, the carrier element must avoid decisive engagements because the element lacks a dismounted carrier capability. Dismount teams which cannot be used forward appropriately are left in the rear to improve positions and emplace obstacles. Once it has returned to the dismount element's position, the carrier element can fight using any of the methods discussed earlier.
Another variation with the carrier element and dismount element on separate positions is to have the two elements fighting from two adjacent battle positions covering the same avenue of approach, and rejoining only to move from those positions.
A company or company team commander may use this plan when he needs the dismount element in one location and the carrier element in another, and when both can be employed from separate positions. This situation might arise when:
The primary position for the dismount element does not allow adequate fields of fire for the carrier weapons.
Sufficient forces are not available to cover separate mounted and dismounted avenues of approach.
The dismount element must occupy heavily wooded or rugged terrain that the APCs cannot traverse.
When this variation of adjacent position is used, a key consideration is how and where the two elements will link up. Both elements need covered routes to a concealed remount point where the dismount elements can rejoin the carrier element. Because the carrier element can move faster than the dismount element and has more protection against small arms and indirect fires, the platoon remount point should be as close to the dismount element as possible.
During limited visibility the company or company team commander may change his plans to provide additional security for the carrier element. This can be done by moving a dismount team to the carrier element's position or by rejoining the platoon on a single battle position.
6-11. PLATOON MOUNTED ON A SINGLE BATTLE POSITION
The platoon defends mounted from a single position if the most advantage can be gained by medium-range antiarmor engagement with mounted Dragon systems and no major gain can be made by deploying a dismount element. This method is used only in a hasty defense when the platoon is going to be in position for only a short time. Staying mounted simplifies the platoon leader's control of the platoon and improves the platoon's ability to react and move quickly. Besides, it reduces troop exposure to indirect fire and provides an excellent posture to exploit an enemy weakness by counterattack. This method may also be used when the platoon must fight immediately upon occupying a position or when the platoon is alerted to be ready to move to another battle position. It should be remembered, however, that the carrier will draw return fire which will endanger the mounted squad.
Normally staying mounted is the least desirable method of employment. The major disadvantage is that less short-range firepower can be produced, and local observation and security are reduced. The platoon is more vulnerable to an attack by dismounted infantry forces. Each squad, by SOP, should dismount a small force (two or three men) for local security each time it halts. These men are led by the team leader. They use natural cover and concealment. If the enemy does not attack, the remainder of the dismount teams should deploy and prepare fighting positions
6-12. BATTLE POSITIONS
A defender has certain natural advantages the attacker does not have. These include a better knowledge of the terrain, ability to better use the terrain for protection and concealment, and a better opportunity to plan the fight. It is essential that platoons and squads select and occupy their positions carefully. If they do not, they lose many of the defender's advantages.
6-13. CARRIER TEAM POSITIONS
The firepower of the caliber .50 machine gun and Dragon is one of the platoon's greatest assets. Hence, the platoon leader first considers where to position the APCs, and then, if the situation allows, builds the platoon defense around them. Ideally each vehicle's position provides:
Good fields of fire into the most likely avenues of enemy approach.
Cover, especially to the front.
Concealment from both ground and air observation.
Covered and concealed routes to and between positions and to the platoon remount point (if applicable).
Mutual support between positions.
Hull-down positions should be occupied whenever possible. In such positions, mounted weapons are least exposed to enemy fire, and the hull is protected by cover. By camouflaging the weapons, the APC is then difficult to detect, yet the mounted weapons can still be fired. If available, engineer assets can assist the platoon in preparing hull-down positions.
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NOTE: When first occupying a hull-down position, the caliber .50 machine gun should be fully depressed to insure that close-in targets can be engaged without moving the vehicle. |
Each vehicle should have a primary position and as many alternate positions as needed to cover the entire sector of fire. Supplementary positions may be designated to cover secondary sectors of fire. All mounted weapon systems should be considered when positions are selected and prepared.
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NOTE: The Dragon system positions must offer unobstructed fields of fire and a clear backblast area. |
Dragons can kill tanks out to 1,000 meters. This is within effective range of a tank's main gun (usually between 1,500 and 2,000 meters). This gives the tank a stand-off advantage. To offset the advantage, APCs must have good hull-down positions, suppress enemy tanks with indirect fire, coordinate TOW and Dragon fires, and insure that tanks fired on are in range.
This kill probability of the Dragon rises if it hits the tank's weaker side armor. Flank engagements are advisable because a tank crew's observation and the tank's main gun are normally oriented to the front. Thus, a side or flank engagement reduces the charms of being detected while it improves the chances of a kill.
In some defensive situations where the emphasis is on the dismount element to hold ground, the carrier element will have to make the best possible use of less than ideal terrain. The use of the mounted carrier must be weighed against its possible loss.
The APC cannot survive against antiarmor missiles, tank fire, or BMP and BTR fire. Thus, the vehicle is subject to being suppressed or destroyed by enemy fire. The best way the vehicle can overcome this disadvantage is to stay concealed and deliver surprise flank fire on enemy tanks or other armored vehicles.
When a carrier has fired on an enemy formation, it probably will attract return enemy fire. This APC should, if possible, pull back into a defilade position and another APC, as yet unseen by the enemy should fire on an enemy vehicle that is firing at the first APC. This is mutual support.
The enemy will attempt to suppress the carrier with direct and indirect fire and smoke. So, the carrier element should be positioned to get as much separation as possible between APCs while still mutually supporting each other. This cuts down the chances of two or more APCs being suppressed by the same enemy fires.
When covered and concealed positions are not available for the APCs initially it may be necessary to hide the vehicles in well-concealed positions to the rear. If the carrier teams are collocated with the dismount teams, the dismounted infantrymen can observe the sector and call the carrier forward to preselected firing positions when enemy targets are in firing range. The hide-position technique may be used by individual carrier teams or by the entire carrier element. If the elements are separated, the carrier element leader may have to dismount and move forward to observe the sector.
The use of hide positions helps avoid early detection by enemy ground forces. Also, it can help avoid detection by enemy air. Routes from hide positions to firing positions should be concealed so that the vehicles moving forward will not be detected and engaged by the enemy. Communications between the observers and carrier element can be by prearranged visual signals, wire, or radio. By having several firing positions for a single hide position, each APC is able to engage targets with caliber .50 machine gun or Dragon and then move to another firing position before the enemy can effectively return fire.
A variation of hide positions may be used by the entire platoon to gain protection from intense enemy artillery barrages when the platoon has not had time to prepare adequate fighting positions. By staying mounted and moving to covered and concealed positions to the flank or rear of the intended position, the platoon can wait through an enemy barrage and then occupy the position when the barrage ends. The platoon leader must position himself to allow observation of enemy avenues of approach so that he can decide the proper time to move the platoon into position. As discussed earlier, route selection is critical to avoid disclosure of friendly positions. Timing is critical since the enemy only employs barrages if his maneuver forces are in position to exploit them.
6-15. DISMOUNT TEAM POSITIONS
The company or company team commander's concept of the defense normally specifies when the dismount teams are to be deployed and where they are to be positioned. When possible, the platoon's defense is built around the APC and the dismount element's fighting capabilities. The dismount teams are best employed against enemy dismounted infantry so they should be positioned in areas where the enemy is most likely to fight on foot. Such areas include small towns, rugged terrain, and thick woods.
Seldom is it possible to position the dismount teams in areas that will preclude the enemy's use of armored vehicles; hence, the platoon leader must plan for the dismount teams to fight a mounted and dismounted enemy threat. Restrictive mounted approaches, such as secondary roads, trails, and roads bordered by natural obstacles, are areas well suited for the dismount team's defense against a mounted enemy.
The dismount team members are usually placed in two-man positions. The squad leader should consider whether to remain mounted or to dismount the APC and leave the gunner and driver as the carrier team. If the sector being defended is narrow, then the number of positions may be reduced. If a sector is wide, then it may become necessary to occupy positions with only one man. (Remember to maintain two-man positions on crew-served weapons such as the M60 machine gun if a gunner is designated.) The illustration shows a typical dismount team's position.
Even though it is a small organization, the dismount team has lots of combat power. To fight enemy dismounted attacks, it is armed with one M60 machine gun, three M16A1 rifles (one if the M60 is manned), two M203 grenade launchers (each mounted on an M16A1 rifle), two SAWs, and assorted hand grenades and antipersonnel mines. Against enemy mounted attacks, the dismount team can employ the Dragon, LAWs, the M203 high explosive dual-purpose (HEDP) round, and antitank mines.
The distance between dismount teams will be determined by enemy capabilities, the terrain, visibility conditions, strength of the dismount teams, and their location with respect to the carrier teams.
If each squad has its dismount team dismounted and collocated with its carrier team, distances between squads can be increased. Still, each squad should tie in its fires with the other squads to provide mutual support.
When the dismount element and carrier element are separated, the teams within each element should be mutually supporting, and should be positioned to render this support.
Where possible, the dismount element's fires reinforce and protect the carrier element. Dismounted infantry should be positioned to maximize the effects of the terrain so that the enemy has limited fields of fire/observation into friendly positions. Friendly artillery and mortar fire should be planned with priority going to support of the dismount element.
When preparing the dismount demerit position, the first thing the element leader does is explain to the dismount team leaders how the carrier teams are to be used. He then assigns each team leader a sector, tells him whereto position his machine gun, (if manned), and Dragon (if not mounted), and assigns sectors of fire for each weapon. The dismount element leader insures that key weapons are mutually supporting and that no gaps appear in the element's sector. overlapping sectors of observation and fire between adjacent weapons, fighting positions, and teams provide mutual support within the element's sector. This fire must be enough to stop enemy soldiers from penetrating the position or isolating any part of the dismount element. Obstacles should be planned and emplaced to support the fire plan. Engineer assets, whenever available, should be used to the maximum extent to emplace obstacles and/or to prepare positions.
Protection against enemy indirect fire is a major consideration when preparing dismount team positions. The enemy has the capability to concentrate large amounts of indirect fire. Intense barrages can be expected before any attack. The barrages will continue until the last possible moment before the enemy closes on friendly positions. If dismount teams are deployed, they must be protected. If there is no time to prepare fighting positions with overhead cover, and the APCs are on the same position, dismount teams should mount their APCs until the indirect fire is shifted past the platoon's position. Then the teams can quickly reoccupy their fighting positions under the APCs' covering fires and prepare for the enemy's dismounted attack.
Since the dismount teams are normally employed in areas that restrict mounted movement, Dragon positions with suitable engagement ranges may not be available. If this is the case, Dragons initially may be positioned forward or on the flanks of the dismount element to obtain better fields of tire. Dragons should be positioned to obtain flank shots whenever possible. In the absence of Dragon targets or when Dragon missiles have been expended, antiarmor specialists fire their M16A1 rifles.
Machine guns and SAWs are the dismount element's main weapons to stop infantry attacks. As a rule, all the platoon's machine guns/SAWs are brought to the dismount element's position. The machine guns should be used on tripods with traversing and elevating mechanisms. Their positions should provide sectors of fire across the dismount element's front, interlocking with the carrier element and adjacent platoons, when possible. Machine gun positions should have frontal cover. Machine guns are most effective when delivering enfilade fire down the line of the enemy assault formation.
Where it can be done, machine guns are assigned a final protective line (FPL). An FPL is a line where, with interlocking fire and obstacles, the platoon leader plans to stop an enemy dismounted assault. Generally, it is across the front of the battle position. A machine gun FPL should supply as much grazing fire as possible. Grazing fire is to be no more than 1 meter above the ground (about hip high). Dead space is any area along the FPL that cannot be hit with grazing fire. Dead space is found by having a man walk the FPL. The machine gunner eyes the man walking down the line and records on his range card areas grazing fire does not cover. Dead space should be covered by fires from the grenadiers using the M203. Additionally indirect fire, such as mortars, can be planned on dead space. Where possible, FPLs should overlap so that the loss of a machine gun will not leave a gap.
Sometimes, a gully or ditch may lead into a across the team's front. This machine gun will be position. If so, a machine gun may be positioned assigned a principal direction of fire (PDF) down to fire directly down the approach rather than the approach.
A machine gun is always laid on its FPL or PDF unless engaging other targets. The FPL machine guns should be fired all at the same time and on signal.
The M60 requires an assistant machine gunner. He should be assigned a sector that helps secure the machine gun position, cover gaps in the machine gun fire, or overlap the machine gun's sector, if no gaps exist. If the gunner becomes a casualty the assistant mans the machine gun. If a mounted enemy attack closes within 400 to 500 meters, the assistant should fire his weapon at any exposed enemy track commanders on tanks, BMPs, BTRs. This would force them to close their hatches; thus, it would intensify their control problems. The two SAWs should be positioned to cover gaps in the machine guns' sector. If there are no gaps, SAWs should be assigned sectors that overlap the machine guns' sector. This will insure coverage throughout the team's sector.
The LAWs are the dismount team's primary close-in antiarmor weapon. Each dismount team should have several LAWs in its position. A soldier's sector of fire for the LAW is the same as for his primary weapon.
Enemy approaches into the position should be covered with mines. (Employment of mines requires battalion approval.) To cover dead space that cannot be hit with grenade launchers and to supplement the dismount element's fire, Claymores and other antipersonnel mines can be used. A Claymore must be fired by a soldier who can see its sector of fire. Claymores can be double wired so that they can be fired from either the position they protect or the adjacent position. If more than one Claymore covers the same sector, the dismount team leader should establish a firing sequence. Since there is only 100 feet of wire with the Claymore, care should be taken to insure that soldiers in adjacent positions are not in the Claymore's backblast area.
Antitank mines are used for close-in protection against mounted assaults. It is best to place antitank mines on likely tank routes where they can be covered by LAW and Dragon fire. At least one mine should be emplaced per two-man position; more can be used depending on how vulnerable the dismount team is to armored attack. When mines are used, appropriate reports must be made and locations recorded. All antitank mines should be removed before leaving the position. If this is not possible, such as when a withdrawal is ordered, a report that mines were left in place must be made to proper authority (See appendix P for details of hasty minefield.)
The dismount team leader must concentrate his efforts on controlling the team's fires. He only fires his own weapon to designate targets or in situations where additional firepower is needed.
The dismount element leader and team leaders must be in positions from which they can control their men. The dismount team leader will normally be located toward the center of the team. He may have to occupy a position by himself, or with the Dragon gunner, or near the machine gunner. He should position himself where he can see the entire team and its assigned sector. Ideally, he should be able to see the dismount element leader. The dismount element leader must find a position that lets him overlook the element's entire sector or at least the most critical part of it. When possible, he should have visual contact with the carrier element or a part of it.
6-16. INDIRECT FIRE
Most indirect fire planning is done by the company commander and the fire support team (FIST) chief. Based on the platoon leader's guidance, targets are identified by the FO party attached to the platoon. This target list is forwarded to the FIST chief who consolidates the list and incorporates it into the company's target list. A copy of the company target list is given to the platoon leader. The platoon leader and his FO check the target list to insure that fire is planned on all enemy avenues of approach and on known or likely enemy positions in the platoon sector of fire. If more targets are needed, the FO requests them through the FIST chief. The FO normally stays with the same element as the platoon leader. (For details, see chapter 8.)
The company commander may assign a mortar or artillery final protective fire (FPF)--a prearranged barrier of fire--to a platoon area. A platoon leader must plan its location with his FO and the FIST chief. It should cover the most threatening approach with HE quick on dismounted approaches or DPICM on mounted approaches. The FPF is planned close to the platoon position, but not close enough to endanger friendly troops. When assigned an FPF, the platoon leader will have authority to call for it unless the company commander retains authority. The FPF is essentially fired as a last resort to stop an enemy assault. On signal, it is fired continuously until it is ordered stopped. All other platoon weapons fire while the FPF is being fired. The widths, by weapons, of impact areas of typical FPFs are:
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81-mm mortar |
(3 mortars) Battery (8 howitzers) |
WIDTH 100 meters 400 meters |
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NOTE: The FO will advise the platoon leader on how close to the dismount teams an FPF can be fired with no danger to the troops. This varies with the type of weapon and ammunition fired. |
6-17. SECURITY
A platoon leader sets up a security system for his platoon to keep the enemy from observing or surprising the platoon. This system is based on guidance from his company commander, the enemy situation, terrain, and visibility conditions. As a minimum, an OP is established within small arms support range and with communications to provide security for the platoon.
6-18. COORDINATION BETWEEN ADJACENT PLATOONS/SQUADS/TEAMS
Platoon leaders coordinate with adjacent platoons. Squad or dismount team leaders coordinate with adjacent squads and teams so that all positions and all units are mutually supporting. Coordination normally is initiated from left to right. As a minimum, gaps between positions are covered by fire.
Information exchanged includes:
Locations of primary, alternate, and supplementary positions; and sectors of fire for vehicles, machine guns, and Dragons.
Location of dead space between units and how it is to be covered.
Location of OPs.
Location and types of obstacles and how to cover them.
Patrols, to include size, type, time of departure and return, and routes.
6-19. DEFENSIVE SECTOR SKETCH (TEAM, SQUAD)
If the carrier teams and dismount teams are under squad control, each squad leader should prepare a sector sketch. (Each antiarmor specialist and 7.62-mm and caliber .50 machine gunners should prepare a range card.) The sketch helps the squad leader plan his defense, control the squad's fires, and aid the platoon leader in preparing the platoon fire plan. If the squad is divided into a dismount team and a carrier team that are separated, the dismount team leader makes a team sector sketch and the carrier team leader prepares a range card.
A sector sketch consists of a rough drawing, as close to scale as possible, showing:
Main terrain features in the sector and the range to each.
Each primary position.
Engagement areas or primary and secondary sectors of fire of each position.
Dismounted machine gun FPLs or PDFs.
Type of weapon in each position.
Maximum engagement ranges of Dragon and caliber .50 machine guns.
OP and leader positions.
Target reference points in the sector.
Dead space.
Obstacles.
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NOTE: The parts of the squad sector sketch described are the minimum items for a meaningful sketch. The platoon SOP may require more detail. |
The squad sketch should be prepared based on direct observation of the sector and by using each weapon's range card. (See appendix C for explanation of range card preparation.) Two copies of the squad sketch should be made. One copy goes to the element leader or platoon leader. The other copy remains at the position. The following illustration can be used as a guide in preparing a squad sector sketch.
6-20. DEFENSIVE SECTOR SKETCH (ELEMENT OR PLATOON)
The platoon defensive sector sketch helps the company or company team commander to integrate his defenses. It also lets the platoon leader shift fires in the platoon sector without moving to determine which weapon can fire into a certain area. The platoon leader then can direct (by radiotelephone, voice, or signals) which fires are to be shifted to cover the threatened area. He can also instruct all or part of the platoon to move to alternate or supplementary positions, if necessary. If the platoon is organized into a carrier element and a dismount element, each element leader should prepare an element fire plan.
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NOTE: The parts of the defensive fire plan described below are the minimum necessary items for a meaningful plan. The company SOP or the commander's order may require more detail. |
A platoon's defensive sector is drawn as closely to scale as possible, and it includes targets for both direct and indirect fires. The sketch should show:
Platoon or element sector or engagement area.
Squad or team positions (as applicable).
APC positions with primary sectors of fire or engagement areas.
Dismounted Dragon and machine gun positions with primary sectors of fire for each.
Dismounted machine gun FPLs or PDFs.
Maximum engagement ranges of mounted Dragons and machine guns.
OPs.
TRPs.
Mines and other obstacles.
Indirect fire target locations.
The indirect fire FPF location, if allocated.
Weapons attached to the company and operating in the platoon area (tanks/ITVs).
At least two copies of the platoon sector sketch should be prepared, one for the platoon leader and one for the company commander. If time permits, additional copies may be given to each subordinate team or squad.
The platoon sector sketch must be forwarded to the company commander as soon as possible to facilitate company fire planning.
Section IV. CONDUCT OF THE DEFENSE
6-21. GENERAL
When the enemy attacks, all available weapons are brought into play. Beginning at extended ranges, ITVs, attack helicopters, artillery mortars, and tactical air are directed against enemy formations. As the enemy advances, friendly tanks begin to engage enemy tanks. This fire is reinforced by the suppressive fire of caliber .50 machine guns against enemy BMPs and BTRs. When the enemy is within 1,000 meters, Dragons are used against enemy tanks and personnel carriers. At closer ranges, the fires of the dismounted infantry the caliber .50 machine guns, and indirect fires are added to the battle to engage dismounted infantry. If orders are to retain the defensive position, the dismount teams repel the assault. They are supported by the close and continuous fires of the APC. If the mission calls for the platoon to displace before becoming decisively engaged, dismounted elements quickly remount at a remount point to the rear of the fighting position. The platoon then displaces to its new location covered by tanks and the overwatch fires of ITVs.
6-22. HOW CARRIER TEAMS DEFEND
Carrier teams must use their mobility, firepower and armor protection to the best advantage in the defense. The carrier team using the Dragon on the viscous mount can defeat armor to ranges of 1,000 meters and using the caliber .50 machine gun can provide suppressive fire to 1,600 meters. Because the carrier team can be organized to fit the situation, the inclusion of an M60 and M203 to the carrier element can increase its security and suppressive fire capability.
The carrier team's antiarmor system is medium range, therefore, they are not used alone except where terrain does not allow longer fields of fire. Generally the carrier element will not be used alone but in conjunction with the ITV and tank element. ITVs begin engaging enemy forces at 3,000 meters to maximize their stand-off advantage. If the enemy draws closer to the 1,500-meter range, ITVs displace to the flanks and rear or to deeper battle positions while tanks and Dragons pick up the fight. If the company team is organized with battle positions in depth, the carrier teams after firing may displace to alternate firing positions or disengage and displace to other battle positions. Tanks generally displace overmatched by ITVs, and other tanks.
The carrier teams must be prepared to move to alternate firing positions to avoid enemy return fire. If effective fire is not received after firing the first missile, a second missile may be fired from the same position. Because the APC's mobility is limited, the timing of the decision to move is critical.
The caliber .50 machine gun is effective in suppressing ATGMs and machine gun positions, defeating thin-skinned vehicles, forcing armored vehicles to button up, and engaging troops riding on the outside of tanks or dismounted. The caliber .50 machine gun should be used whenever possible to conserve use of the Dragon. Whenever terrain does not permit mounted use, the caliber .50 machine gun should be employed ground mounted on a tripod with the traversing and elevating mechanism. This employment is more accurate than the free gun on the APC in delivering final protective fires. It should be remembered that ground-mounted employment decreases the mobility of the gun and increases redeployment time.
The carrier team leader moves the vehicle to alternate firing positions to get away from effective enemy fire or to gain a better firing position in the desired sector of fire or engagement area.
This movement may be directed by the carrier element leader or may be an automatic action of the team leader. The carrier team must avoid multiple shots from the same firing position when the enemy is effectively returning fire. Movement of individual vehicles must be coordinated so that all vehicles will not be out of firing positions at the same time. Normally when a threat exists in the platoon's secondary sector, movement to supplementary positions is directed by the platoon leader. This movement normally involves all parts of the carrier element moving at the same time, but it may be done by single APCs or by pairs (sections).
If effective enemy fire forces a carrier team to leave its position, grenade launchers (if on board) can be used to conceal the vehicle's movement. (See appendix J.)
If the platoon is ordered to move to another battle position, and if its elements are located together, the carrier element may continue the fight while the dismount teams remount the vehicles. When the elements are separated, the dismount element, as soon as it reaches the remount point, should notify the carrier element. The carrier element then moves to the remount point to pick them up. If either element becomes decisively engaged, then the platoon must disengage. Normally the company or battalion will take action to relieve pressure. (See section VI.)
To avoid decisive engagement, the platoon must move quickly. An enemy force traveling at 20 kilometers per hour (kmph) (12 mph) moves 1 kilometer in only 3 minutes. To slow the enemy, the carrier element should increase its rate of fire. The FO should call for indirect fire and smoke. Emplaced obstacles and mines also will slow the enemy attack.
The platoon is especially vulnerable to enemy fire while it is moving. Machine guns and M203s should be oriented to the rear. Techniques of retrograde movement are discussed as part of disengagement (section VI).
6-23. HOW DISMOUNT TEAMS DEFEND
Defending Against a Dismounted Attack. During an attack, the enemy infantry will advance as far as possible mounted in BTRs and BMPs. When forced to dismount, the infantry will continue the attack on foot supported by indirect fire, tanks, BTRs, and BMPs. Indirect fires should be placed on the enemy's dismounted forces as fast as possible.
The dismount teams should engage the attacking enemy force as soon as it comes within the element's sector of fire. Targets in the primary sector of fire have priority. But, when no targets show in the primary sector, targets in the secondary sectors are engaged. If machine guns are shifted to fire into secondary sectors of fire, assistant gunners should check primary sectors, between bursts, to guard against any enemy movement in the primary sector.
As the enemy begins the assault, the platoon leader requests and employs all FPFs. Machine guns fire on their FPLs or PDFs, and FOs call for mortar and artillery FPFs. A heavy stream of fire is maintained until the enemy assault is halted. The rate of fire is then reduced to save ammunition.
When the enemy assault is repelled, the platoon leader must be ready to counterattack retreating enemy forces. Retreating enemy forces are often disorganized and exposed to fire while the dismount element's ability to pursue is limited, the element leader should keep calling for indirect fire and be prepared to quickly remount the APCs and counterattack, if ordered to do so.
Defending Against a Mounted Attack. The platoon leader should coordinate the employment of indirect fires on enemy infantry riding on tanks, at exposed crew members to force them to close their hatches, and at dismounted infantry moving along with the tanks. Riflemen and automatic riflemen should direct their fires to cause the same effect. If the enemy infantry can be stopped, his tanks become vulnerable to medium and close range antitarmor weapons.
Dismounted Dragons are used to engage enemy tanks as soon as the tanks enter their sectors of fire. Primary sectors of fire are setup for flank shots. Dragons may be fired at enemy tanks in secondary sectors of fire when no tanks are seen in primary sectors of fire. When engaging targets, antiarmor specialists should make maximum use of the front protection of their positions and try for flank shots at target tanks. All dismounted Dragon engagements should be controlled by the dismount team leaders.
LAWs are fired at enemy armored vehicles that close on the dismount team's position. Dismount team leaders should hold LAW fire until enemy vehicles come into the protective minefield or close enough so that LAW hits can be made on the sides of the target vehicles. A dismount team leader will normally have better results if his entire team hits one enemy tank with surprise volley or pair fire.
Grenadiers fire dual-purpose ammunition at BTRs and BMPs, preferably from the sides. As with the LAW, they should wait until the targets are close enough so they can make hits.
6-24. CONSOLIDATION AND REORGANIZATION--PREPARING FOR THE NEXT ATTACK
When an enemy assault is repelled or when the platoon is moved to a new defensive position, leaders must prepare their men to counterattack, to continue the defense in place, or displace. If the platoon leader is directed to hold his present positions, the platoon must quickly prepare for more enemy attacks. The platoon must:
Reestablish Security. If OPs withdrew to the battle position, they are sent back out. If any of the OP personnel did not return or are wounded, they must be accounted for or replaced.
Replace Key Personnel Who Become Casualties. If there are casualties among leaders or on critical weapons, they are replaced with other men.
Redistribute/Resupply Ammunition. Dismount team leaders inventory and redistribute remaining ammunition. Ammunition from casualties is given to survivors. New belts are placed in machine guns; partial belts are relinked. If the squad vehicle is nearby, the dismount team gets additional ammunition from the vehicle. Ammunition status is reported to the dismount element or platoon leader. Carrier team leaders/gunners make a quick count of remaining ammunition. Ammunition status is reported to the carrier element or platoon leader. The carrier element leader may also redistribute ammunition among the APCs. The platoon leader or platoon sergeant consolidates the entire platoon's ammunition status reports, and then requests resupply from the company or company team commander. If necessary he will send a vehicle to pick up more ammunition. Barrels on machine guns should be changed if time permits and spare barrels are on hand.
Evacuate the Dead and Seriously Wounded. The wounded are treated and, when possible, returned to duty. The seriously wounded are evacuated to the rear, as are the dead. After casualties are evacuated, all sectors of fire must be checked to insure they are still covered. Leaders must insure that positions are readjusted, as needed, to cover any gaps left by casualties or disabled APCs. Casualty reports are submitted and unit rosters are updated to reflect losses.
Replace Camouflage. When the situation allows, wilted material is removed and replaced with fresh camouflage. A position should not be overcamouflaged.
Replace Obstacles. If enemy forces have withdrawn, obstacles, mines, and early warning devices should be replaced. This is a risky task, especially if there are enemy snipers. Troops must be careful; smoke can be used to cover movement. Obstacles may have to be replaced after dark.
Reestablish Communications. Repair broken wire lines between positions.
Section V. COUNTERATTACK
6-25. GENERAL
During the conduct of defensive operations, leaders at all levels must seek opportunities to attack. The counterattack is an excellent way to seize the initiative, to destroy or disrupt the enemy, or to gain key terrain.
6-26. PLATOON LEVEL
At the platoon level, counterattacks will resemble a hasty attack. Platoon leaders make an estimate of the situation and react immediately to catch the enemy at a weak point. The preferred method of counterattacking involves repositioning a unit so that effective fire can be placed on the enemy In this case, the unit moves only to the extent necessary to attack by fire. However, at times it may be necessary to assault the enemy and "kick" him off a piece of terrain. Normally this situation is associated with the enemy overtaking a part or all of your defensive positions. To restore the continuity of the defense, the enemy must be expulsed. This requires decisive action to hit the enemy before he has an opportunity to react.
The platoon leader's decision to counterattack must not be a reckless act. It must involve an understanding of the higher (company) commander's intent and the use of good judgment before taking a calculated risk. Knowing the commander's intent alleviates the idea of totally independent action. For example, the company commander may describe the necessity of retaining a specific piece of terrain which is critical to the battalion's defensive plan. If this terrain is lost, but can be regained through the immediate action of a platoon, the platoon leader should seize the initiative and retake the terrain. Where feasible, the platoon leader should take action based upon the commander's direction; however, in the absence of specific orders the platoon leader should have the freedom of action to take the initiative.
Most often, the platoon counterattacks as part of a company, company team, or battalion task force. Some counterattacks are planned in great detail. Others, like hasty attacks, are not planned ahead but are executed rapidly when the right conditions exist. Counterattacking forces must complete their tasks and regain covered positions before any overmatching or following enemy echelons can interfere.
For a particular counterattack, platoons may be detached from one company or company team and attached to another. Platoons must be well-trained to respond to such rapid changes in mission and task organization.
Section VI. DISENGAGEMENT
6-27. GENERAL
As the enemy closes, and based on orders from the task force commander, the company or company team commander will decide how long to hold defensive positions. The company or company team may be required to remain and fight as long as possible or it may be required to disengage and displace to another position. A platoon, as part of a company or company team, may disengage to defend from another battle position, to prepare for a counterattack, to delay, to withdraw, or to prepare for some other mission.
Fire and movement to the rear is the basic tactic 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 fire 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, as well as mines (conventional or scatterable), will also add to the enemy's confusion, slow the momentum of his mounted attack, and help conceal the movement of friendly units. Small arms and indirect fire can be used against an attack by dismounted troops.
A base of fire is formed to cover other units moving away from the enemy. One unit acts as the base of fire, holding off the enemy by fire or holding terrain that blocks his advance, while other units move to break contact.
When the moving units get to the next position, they provide a base of fire to cover the rearward movement of the forward unit.
Fire and movement in reverse is repeated until contact with the enemy is broken, until the unite pass through a higher level base-of-fire force, or until the units are in the next position to resume their defense.
When facing a mounted enemy attack, antiarmor weapons are the most effective weapons for the base of fire. For that reason, movement of those antiarmor weapons must be closely controlled. Normally ITVs fire and move back first, followed by APCs, then tanks.
In close terrain, when facing a dismounted enemy attack, or with viability limited, the ITVs and tanks may have to move first, covered by the infantry and their APCs. The tactics used by the platoon to disengage from the enemy can differ according to how the platoon is deployed, how the company or company team plans for disengagement, and other factors, but some actions apply in all cases:
Maximum use is made of the carrier team's firepower to cover rearward movement.
APCs should back out of position and move, keeping a terrain feature between the vehicle and the enemy.
The vehicle-mounted weapons should remain pointed in the direction of the enemy.
Rapid movement and an effective base of fire are the keys to a successful disengagement.
6-28. PLANS FOR A DISENGAGEMENT
Plans for a disengagement must be part of any battle position occupation plan. If dismount teams are deployed, a plan for rapid remounting must be made. Keeping the platoon mounted or placing the dismount teams with the carrier teams simplifies this process.
When the platoon employs the carrier and dismount elements on separate positions, platoon remount points and routes to the remount points must be chosen. The platoon remount point can be:
Near the dismount element position.
Near the carrier element position.
Between the two.
Within the remount point, covered positions for vehicles should be chosen that allow for easy remounting even during limited visibility. Dismount team leaders must be sure their men know the location of the remount point, where the squad carrier is at that point, and routes to the point. Routes to the remount point should be covered and allow speedy movement for both elements. Considerations for planning are:
APCs can move faster and have more protection from enemy small arms fire and artillery fragments than dismounted troops.
The carrier element often will shift from one firing position to another, so routes must be planned from each position to the remount point.
Following routes and finding remount points will be difficult in the heat of battle and even more difficult during limited visibility. As a minimum, routes should be marked and reconnoitered by the carrier element drivers and TLs and by the dismount team leaders.
6-29. HOW THE DISMOUNT ELEMENT DISENGAGES
When the dismount and carrier elements are separated, there are three ways the dismount element can disengage. Simultaneous disengagement (moving all teams at the same time) can be used when the element is covered by another force. When the dismount element must cover its own movement, it disengages by teams or by thinning the lines.
Simultaneous Disengagement.
When the dismount teams simultaneously disengage, they assemble and move as one element as fast as possible to the remount point, using movement techniques.
Simultaneous disengagement is favored when rapid movement is critical, the carrier element is adequately covering the disengagement, and the enemy has not closed on the dismount element or cannot fire effectively at it. Simultaneous disengagement can be used when the dismount element can move before the enemy can close on the position because of an obstacle or distance between the dismount element and the enemy. It can also be used when other units of the company, company team, or battalion task force are adequately covering the disengagement.
Disengagement by Dismount Teams.
When the dismount element must cover its own movement, one or two teams stay in position as a base of fire. The rest of the dismount element moves to the rear. Teams left in position must fire into the entire element's sector to cover the movement of the other dismount teams. Sectors of fire are adjusted as necessary to get better coverage of the element's sector.
The teams left in position disengage when the rest of the element is in position to cover their disengagement.
Movement to the rear by alternating teams is kept up until contact is broken. Once contact with the enemy is broken, the disengagement is complete, and the dismount element moves to the remount point using proper movement techniques.
Disengagement by dismount teams has the advantage of simplicity in that the dismount teams stay together. It is used when one or two teams can effectively cover the entire dismount element's sector.
Disengagement by Thinning the Lines.
When disengaging by thinning the lines, selected men from each dismount team (often one man from each fighting position) disengage and move to the rear. The men still in position become the base of fire to cover the movement.
When the rearward-moving men are in position to provide a base of fire, the rest of the element moves to their rear.
Machine guns may move with either the first or last group, whichever best supports the movement. The Dragon has a 65-meter minimum arming range, so it is usually wise to move the Dragons first. The elements and squad leaders normally move last. As one group disengages, men remaining in position increase their rate of fire to keep the enemy from overrunning the position. As with other methods if disengagement, this process is carried on until contact is broken.
Disengagement by thinning the lines allows an even distribution of fire across the dismount element's sector during the disengagement. It is used when no one dismount team can cover the dismount element's sector because of close terrain or limited visibility. But because teams are separated, control is more difficult than when disengaging by teams. If dismount teams are organized into two fire teams, the assistant squad leader moves with the first disengaging team personnel and takes charge of them.
Disengagement of Dismount Teams When Employed With the Carrier Team. When the carrier teams and the dismount teams are employed on the same position, the dismount teams normally move to their rear while the APCs provide a base of fire. The carrier teams then quickly move to their rear, link up with the infantry, remount, and move out. The dismount teams can use any of the disengaging techniques discussed earlier. The method selected usually will be dictated by the enemy situation, the terrain, and the carrier teams' ability to serve as a base of fire.
6-30. HOW THE CARRIER ELEMENT DISENGAGES
Because of the carrier element's speed and element (when deployed) to disengage first while covered by the carrier element. But, if the carrier element is not in a position to support the dismount element by fire or if the dismount element is heavily engaged, the carrier 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 carrier element can disengage. If the carrier element is covered by another force, simultaneous disengagement may be used. If the carrier element must cover its own movement, it disengages by teams. These methods are similar in concept to those used by the dismount element.
Simultaneous Disengagement. When the teams of the carrier element disengage simultaneously, they move as one unit as quickly as possible. This method is normally used when the carrier element is covered by another force and speed is the most critical factor. If the dismount teams are already mounted, the entire platoon moves, using movement techniques, to a position designated by the company or company team commander. If the dismount teams are deployed, the carrier element moves to the remount point to pick up the dismount teams, or it may have to attack the enemy by fire from a new position to allow the dismount teams to disengage. Once the dismount teams have disengaged, the carrier element again disengages, either by all carrier teams simultaneously or by individual carrier teams, as the situation firepower, it is usually best for the dismount warrants.
Disengagement by Carrier Teams.
When the carrier element must cover its own disengagement, one, two, or three vehicles can be left in position as a base of fire while the rest move to the rear. The carrier teams left in position must cover the entire sector until the moving vehicles reach positions they can use to provide a base of fire.
The number of vehicles left as the base of fire depends on the enemy situation and how quickly the carrier element must disengage.
The carrier teams receiving the heaviest tank and ATGM fire are normally disengaged first. It is critical that other carrier teams, ITVs, or tanks be able to cover the sectors of the disengaging APCs. This will prevent the enemy from moving quickly into the friendly positions through the gap left by the rearward moving APCs.
Regardless of the method used, the carrier teams keep up fire and movement to the rear until they disengage or are in position to serve as a base of fire for the dismount teams or for other platoons. Execution must be aggressive and well controlled. Carrier teams told to cover the rest of the element's disengagement must step up their rates of fire while teams moving to the rear quickly move, taking advantage of covered and concealed routes. Mounted weapons should remain oriented in the direction of the enemy during movement.
To cover the platoon's move, the platoon leader should request indirect fire and smoke through his FO or the company team commander. HE is used against enemy troops and smoke is used to screen exposed routes the platoon must cross. If the vehicles are having difficulty breaking contact, smoke grenade launchers should be used.
If direct fire support is needed to let the platoon disengage, the platoon leader should ask the company or company team commander for assistance. If the covering fire of other elements is not enough to allow it to move, the platoon may have to use a combination of mounted and dismounted fire and movement.
During a disengagement, the company team commander may direct a platoon to cover the movement of other platoons by occupying battle positions and firing into assigned areas or by holding terrain.
Section VII. OTHER PLATOON DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS
6-31. GENERAL
In addition to the defensive operation discussed earlier, companies, company teams, battalions, and battalion task forces also conduct delays and withdrawals. Platoons do not conduct delays or withdrawals singly but participate in these operations as part of a company or company team.
Platoons and squads use the same fundamental tasks in a delay or a withdrawal that they use in other defensive operations, but these are modified to fit into the company or company team concept of operations.
6-32. DELAY
A delay is fought to slow the enemy's advance and to trade space for time. If possible, the delay operation stops the enemy. But should the enemy strength or the risk to friendly forces be too great, the enemy is engaged (destroyed if possible) and at least forced to deploy. Just when the enemy appears ready to mount his assault, the delaying force, at the last possible moment, disengages and withdraws to a new position. The enemy then must begin his time-consuming preparation again. A delaying force may attack, ambush, or raid, or use any other tactic necessary to accomplish the mission.
The platoon takes part in a company, company team, or battalion task force delay by performing those tasks given to it by the company or company team commander. Most of these tasks are standard defense missions--emplacing obstacles, defending a position, firing into assigned sectors or engagement areas, providing security, and preparing battle positions in depth.
6-33. WITHDRAWAL
A withdrawal is an operation in which a force frees itself for a new mission. It may be conducted with or without enemy pressure. When ordered to withdraw, the company or company team disengages (if in contact) and moves to the specified area. It may do this alone or as a part of a battalion or battalion task force.
The method the company or company team commander uses to withdraw depends on enemy pressure. If the enemy is attacking or is expected to attack during the withdrawal, a withdrawal under pressure is conducted. If the enemy is not attacking and the commander thinks that by stealth he can withdraw before the enemy can react, he can conduct a withdrawal not under pressure.
When withdrawing under pressure, the company or company team normally covers its own disengagement and withdrawal. As described earlier, platoons disengage using fire and movement, massing fires to move away from the enemy.
When withdrawing not under pressure, the unit withdraws covered by a detachment left in contact (DLIC). The DLIC protects the main body deception, and by resistance when necessary. The makeup of the DLIC is directed by the company or company team commander. It may consist of a squad from each platoon, or one platoon from the company or company team, or another combination of forward elements. The squad or platoon, as part of a DLIC, may shift to cover the sector of the withdrawing forces. Positions should be shifted only when necessary; too much movement may alert the enemy. If they are spread too widely, command and control become difficult.
When a platoon serves as the DLIC for a withdrawing company or company team, the platoon leader normally is the DLIC commander. If a squad remains in the platoon's position while the rest of the platoon withdraws, that squad is a part of the DLIC. It is controlled by one of the platoon leaders or the company executive officer.
The DLIC attempts to deceive the enemy by feigning the company or company team's function. The DLIC must be prepared to detect and repel enemy attacks until the main body has withdrawn safely. This may require that part of the withdrawing force's ammunition be left with the DLIC.
It is best to conduct a withdrawal not under pressure during reduced visibility. The main body dismount teams and carrier teams should have preselected remount areas to the rear of their positions. Team leaders should reconnoiter routes to remount areas so that actual withdrawals can be done quickly, with minimum confusion. Once the dismount teams have mounted their APCs, the platoon(s) should move quickly along a designated route to its next position.
When the DLIC commander directs the DLIC to withdraw, and since the force is relatively exposed, it must quickly withdraw and move along its assigned routes to assemble and move out to its next mission.
6-34. RESERVE
At times, a platoon may be given the mission of being a part of the battalion reserve. The platoon leader must consider the following possible reserve missions:
To reinforce units in the frontline.
Where are the positions?
How are the units organized?
Where is the best avenue of approach?
What is the best course of action if the enemy has already reached the defensive positions?
What is the recognition plan?
To block an enemy penetration.
Where are the best enemy avenues of approach?
Where is it necessary to have positions for blocking the enemy?
What is the best way to reach the blocking positions?
How should the platoon organize?
Where are existing obstacles, and where should additional obstacles be placed?
To conduct a counterattack.
Where is the key or advantageous terrain?
Where are covered and concealed routes?
Where will linkup with friendly forces take place?
Where are existing obstacles?
Who is participating in the counterattack, and what support is available?
How will friendly fires be controlled?
What is the recognition plan?
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