TA.1 MANEUVER BOS
(Trends are numbered sequentially for cross-reference and are not in any priority order.)
Positive Performance
SUBJECT: Terrain flight techniques
OBSERVATION (AV DIV): Aircrews are using traveling overwatch and bounding overwatch techniques during their reconnaissance missions.
DISCUSSION: During the search and attack phase when contact with enemy forces is possible, the overwatching element is keying its movement off the wingman and terrain as much as possible. Mutual support is readily available for the teams conducting the missions. The "team concept" or "wingman concept" is being properly executed for the most part. On occasion, team members become separated by a distance that does not lend itself to immediate support if an aircraft is engaged.
SUSTAINMENT TECHNIQUES AND PROCEDURES: Leaders make the call to "accept risk" by separating a team based on the enemy situation.
(TA.1.1.1
Position/Reposition Forces [Units and Equipment])
Needs Emphasis
SUBJECT: Occupation plan
OBSERVATION (EAD CSS): One of the most neglected areas during deployment is the occupation plan. Many units do not take the time to properly develop an occupation plan.
DISCUSSION: The occupation plan is critical since it is the first action on which many others are based. The actual occupation sets the tempo for the rest of the operation. An occupation that is on time will enable the unit to properly set and prepare for support operations. It is not unusual to see units take 36 to 48 hours to finish the occupation. Usually by then they are immersed in support operations, unable to effectively do either.
TECHNIQUES AND PROCEDURES: Develop an occupation plan and stick to it. The plan should be part of the tactical standing operating procedures (TACSOP) and take into account mission, enemy, terrain, troops and time available (METT-T). Do not try to make drastic changes after the equipment arrives on site; it is too late. Ensure that every element is well versed on the plan through wargaming and sand table rehearsals.
(TA.1.1.1
Position/Reposition Forces [Units and Equipment])
SUBJECT: Actions on contact
OBSERVATION (TF 2): Units continue to perform poorly during the first moments of contact with enemy units. Battle drills are not automatic reactions and often result in indiscriminate fire and movement by individuals.
DISCUSSION: Problems include an initial hesitation to react, lack of knowledge of battle drills at the squad and platoon level, and collective tasks. There is a failure to establish a base of fire sufficient to prevent the enemy from maneuvering to a flank or breaking contact, and a failure to include indirect fire assets in the fire. The majority of platoon actions-on-contact result in the enemy escaping with few casualties and friendly forces sustaining several casualties.
Leaders are hesitant to re-position soldiers to improve the effectiveness of their weapons or to seek better cover and concealment. Units fail to plan for or rehearse actions-on-contact prior to mission execution. Soldiers' aggressiveness and marksmanship, although usually done without any regard to battle drills or doctrine, sometimes wins the day in the close fight.
TECHNIQUES AND PROCEDURES:
1. Review ARTEP 7-8, Drill, Nov 1993.
2. Review FM 7-8, Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad.
3. Reference CALL NTC Trends Compendium No. 97-17, Sep 97, Actions on Contact.
(TA.1.2 Engage Enemy)
TA.5
Intelligence BOS
TA.2
Fire Support BOS
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