RECONNAISSANCE
AND
COUNTERRECONNAISSANCE
The importance of reconnaissance cannot be overemphasized. There is typically a battle which precedes the battle -- a confrontation of opposing reconnaissance units -- and the winner of that preliminary battle is most often the victor in the main event.
For a deliberate attack, just knowing that the enemy is on a particular hill is not sufficient. You must know how he has prepared the ground -- obstacles and fire sacks. You must know the locations of his weapons systems so that you can isolate and/or suppress the vast majority and gang up on just a few. For the present, the detailed intelligence needed at task force level will not come from sophisticated devices but from skilled scouts and infantrymen.
In the defense, you must deny the enemy the knowledge of your concept of the operation. It is important for counterreconnaissance to begin before initial occupation and to continue throughout the time and depth of the defense. The defender must both detect and kill enemy reconnaissance elements. This requires dedicated assets -- scouts, infantry, tanks, and TOWs. During daylight, helicopters can be very effective at locating reconnaissance elements hiding in the task force sector. Challenge and password procedures should be used by everyone, not just TOC guards. Protection of obstacles is of particular importance. They are always a prime target and must be guarded at night. First light sweeps should be made to clear the area and check the integrity of defensive preparations. OPSEC and deception are also important. Reverse slope positions, use of screening smoke, frequent repositioning of vehicles, and late occupation of positions are all useful techniques.
For both offense and defense, reconnaissance must be continuous over time and throughout the depth of the battle area. If the enemy is moving, we need to know. We must use the high ground for observation and deny its use to the enemy.
Reconnaissance and counterreconnaissance actions are most effective when controlled at battalion level, normally by the S-2 and FSO. Company patrols (except local security) should be on a single battalion net. The S-2 and commo officer must provide for continuous communications with patrols, to include liberal use of radio relays. A reporting schedule and negative reports are essential.
Table
of Contents
Intelligence
Preparation of the Battlefield (IPB)
Role
of Infantry
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