ATP 3-21.8
Envelopment. Turning movement. Frontal attack. Penetration. Infiltration. Flank attack.
What are the six methods of maneuver?
Offensive tasks are typically executed in a five-step sequence. This sequence is for discussion purposes only and is not the only way of conducting offensive tasks. These sequences overlap during the conduct of the offense. Normally the first three steps are shaping operations, while the maneuver step is the decisive operation. Follow through is usually a sequel or branch to the plan based upon the situation.
How are offensive tasks executed?
The Infantry rifle platoon and its squads can be task organized alone or as a combined arms force based upon METT-TC. Its effectiveness increases through the synergy of combined arms including tanks, Bradley fighting vehicles (BFVs) and Stryker Infantry carrier vehicles (ICVs), engineers, and other support elements. The Infantry rifle platoon and squad as a combined arms force can capitalize on the strengths of the team's elements while minimizing their limitations.
How can IRPSs be organized?
The platoon must prepare to fight in a variety of operational environments. Once the rifle squads have dismounted, the mounted element can provide a base of fire for the rifle squads as they close with and destroy the enemy. Figure 1-10 (page 1-42) depicts the platoon headquarters, the mounted elements, and the Infantry squads. The platoon can fight as in multiple mutually supporting maneuver elements to include— Squad leader controls two dismounted teams and mounted Stryker vehicle. The squads fight dismounted while the Stryker vehicles move in vehicle sections. The platoon fights in sections with mounted and dismounted elements supporting one another. The platoon fights with dismounted squads and Stryker vehicles or as two distinct maneuver elements one mounted and one dismounted.
How can Stryker elements operate effectively with dismounted elements?
BFV-equipped Infantry platoons and rifle squads normally operate as part of a larger force. They benefit from the support of armor, artillery, mortars, close air support, close combat attack, air defense, and engineers. They provide their own suppressive fires either to repel enemy assaults or to support their own maneuver. During close combat, platoon leaders determine how to employ the BFVs by considering the following objectives: Support the rifle squads with direct fires. Provide mobile protection to transport rifle squads to the critical point on the battlefield. Suppress or destroy enemy vehicles and other lightly armored vehicles. Destroy enemy armor with TOW fires.
How do BFV equipped infantry platoons operate?
Leaders select the form of maneuver based on METT-TC. The leader then synchronizes the contributions of all warfighting functions to the selected form of maneuver. An operation may contain several forms of offensive maneuver, such as frontal attack to clear enemy security forces, followed by a penetration to create a gap in enemy defenses, which in turn is followed by an envelopment to destroy a counterattacking force. While Infantry platoons and squads do not have the combat power to conduct all forms of maneuver on its own, they will participate as part of a larger organization.
How do leaders select the method of maneuver?
Soldiers use discipline when applying lethal and nonlethal action, a necessity for operations. Disciplined actions and decisions are a hallmark of our Army profession. In fact, the ethical, effective, and efficient accomplishment of our mission depends on the freedom to exercise disciplined initiative under mission command. Today's threats challenge the morals and ethics of Soldiers. Often an enemy feels no compulsion to respect international laws or conventions and commits atrocities simply to provoke retaliation. The enemy takes any loss of discipline on the part of Soldiers, distorts and exploits it in propaganda, and magnifies it through the media. The ethical challenge rests heavily on small-unit leaders who maintain discipline and ensure that Soldiers' conduct remains within moral and ethical boundaries that are in alignment with what is expected from the Army profession.
How does discipline impact the success of combat operations?
The BFV enhances the platoon's capabilities to conduct operations with greater lethality, survivability, sustainability, and mobility. The information systems enhance the crew's communication during operations. Because the BFV platoon can transfer more information at every level, leaders and Soldiers must work together to manage the information.
How does the BFV enhance the capabilities of the platoon?
The company maneuvers in various types of terrain, climate, and visibility conditions. It capitalizes on all forms of mobility, to include helicopters and tactical airlift. The inherent versatility of Infantry makes it well suited for employment against asymmetrical threats. Unlike the Infantry and Stryker rifle companies, it has no organic mortars.
How does the Infantry company maneuver?
The platoon leader works to develop and maintain situational understanding. This is a product of four elements. First, the platoon leader attempts to know what is happening in present terms of friendly, enemy, neutral, and terrain situations. Second, he knows the end state representing mission accomplishment. Third, he determines the critical actions and events occurring to move his unit from the present to the end state. Finally, he assesses the risk throughout.
How does the PL develop situational awareness?
The designated marksman acts as a member of the squad under the direction of the squad leader or as designated by the platoon leader. Although normally functioning as a rifleman within one of the fire teams in a rifle squad, the designated marksman is armed with a modified rifle. He is employed at the direction of the fire team leader or squad leader. He is trained to eliminate high-payoff enemy personnel targets (such as enemy automatic rifle teams, AT teams, and snipers) with precision fires.
How does the designated marksman operate within the squad?
The Infantry platoon and squad achieves concentration through— Careful planning and coordination based on a thorough terrain and enemy analysis, plus accurate reconnaissance. Designation of a main effort and allocation of resources to support it. Continuous information flow. Massing firepower using long-range precision fires and maneuver.
How does the infantry squad achieve concentration?
Each Infantry squad is further organized into three teams, two four-man teams consisting of a team leader, a grenadier, and an automatic rifleman. The fourth member within each fire team is a rifleman with the added duties of being either the squad's antitank specialist or the squad's designated marksman. The third team consists of the vehicle commander and the vehicle driver.
How is each infantry squad organized?
In the offense, surprise is achieved by attacking the enemy at a time or place they do not expect or in a manner for which they are unprepared. Estimating the enemy commander's intent and denying the ability to gain thorough and timely situational understanding are necessary to achieve surprise. Unpredictability and boldness help gain surprise. The direction, timing, and force of attack also help achieve surprise. Surprise delays enemy reactions, overloads and confuse his command and control systems, induces psychological shock in enemy soldiers and leaders, and reduces the coherence of defensive missions. By diminishing enemy combat power, surprise enables the attackers to exploit enemy paralysis and hesitancy. The Infantry platoon and squad achieve surprise by— Gaining and maintaining information dominance by conducting thorough information collection and counter reconnaissance efforts. Striking the enemy from an unexpected direction, at an unexpected time, and by unique combinations of movement with units that cross all types of terrain. Quickly changing the tempo of operations. Being unpredictable.
How is surprise achieved?
The Infantry squad fire team is designed as a self-contained team. The automatic rifleman provides an internal base of fire with the ability to deliver sustained suppressive small arms fire on area targets. The rifleman provides accurate, lethal direct fire for point targets. The rifleman may be issued an SLM. The grenadier provides high explosive (HE) indirect fires for both point and area targets. A team leader leads his team by example.
How is the infantry fire team organized?
ICV-equipped Infantry platoons and rifle squads normally operate as part of a larger force. They benefit from the support of armor, artillery, mortars, close air support, close combat attack, air defense, and engineers. They provide their own suppressive fires either to repel enemy assaults or to support their own maneuver. During close combat, platoon leaders determine how to employ the ICVs by considering the following objective: Support the rifle squads with direct fires. Provide mobile protection to transport rifle squads to the critical point on the battlefield. Suppress or destroy enemy personnel and other soft targets with a .50-cal machine gun or an MK19.
In what elements do ICV infantry platoons and rifle squads operate?
Four important principles govern armed conflict: military necessity, distinction, proportionality, and unnecessary suffering. Military necessity permits combat forces to engage in those acts necessary to accomplish a legitimate military objective and not otherwise forbidden by the law of armed conflict. Distinction means discriminating between lawful combatant targets and noncombatant targets. The latter may include civilians, civilian property, EPW, and wounded personnel who are out of combat. Proportionality requires that the anticipated loss of life and damage to property incidental to attacks must not be excessive in relation to the concrete and direct military advantage expected to be gained. The principle of unnecessary suffering requires military forces to avoid inflicting gratuitous violence on the enemy. Soldiers consider these principles when planning and executing operations
What 4 principles govern armed conflict?
The forward observer also— Informs the fire support team of the platoon situation, location, and indirect fire support requirements. Prepares and uses maps, overlays, and terrain sketches. Calls for and adjusts indirect fires. (See figure 1-6, page 1-24.) Operates as a team with the fire support radiotelephone operator. Selects targets to support the platoon's mission. Selects observation posts and movement routes to and from selected targets. Operates digital message devices and maintains communication with the company and battalion fire support officer (FSO). Maintains grid coordinates of his location. Prepares to employ close air support (CAS) assets. (See figure 1-7, page 1-25.)
What are additional duties of the forward observer?
The higher commander defines the commander's intent and establishes control measures allowing for decentralized execution and platoon leader initiative to the greatest extent. Common control measures for the offense are the— Assault position. Assault time. Attack by fire position. Attack position. Axis of advance. Battle handover line. Direction of attack. Final coordination line. Limit of advance. Line of departure. Objective. Point of departure. Probable line of deployment. Rally point. Support of fire position. Time of attack.
What are common control measures of the offense?
Leaders must consider the following guidelines when employing Stryker Infantry during decisive operations: Squads and platoons fight through enemy contact at the lowest possible level. Upon enemy contact, all Soldiers and leaders must act at once and follow up. Battle drills are standard procedures that help the platoon take immediate action. Before they can maneuver, squads or platoons in contact must establish effective suppressive fires and gain fire superiority. If the platoon or squad cannot move under its own fires, the leader must request support from the commander. Once they gain fire superiority, they maneuver against an enemy position. The Stryker ICV can suppress the enemy, move to a dismount location (if caught in the open), and dismount the rifle squads. The ICVs quickly build a base of fire for the rifle squads to maneuver.
What are considerations for the employment of Stryker infantry elements?
Decisive operations lead directly to the accomplishment of the mission. Commanders may combine the decisive-shaping-sustaining framework and the deepclose- security framework when this aids in visualizing and describing the operation. The decisive operation need not be a close operation. Shaping operations create and preserve conditions for the success of decisive operation. Commanders may designate more than one shaping operation. Sustaining operations enable the decisive operation or shaping operation by generating and maintaining combat power.
What are decisive operations?
ROE are directives issued by competent military authority that delineate the circumstances and limitations under which U.S. forces initiate or continue combat engagement with other forces encountered. These directives may take the form of execute orders, deployment orders, memoranda of agreement, or plans. ROE always recognize a Soldier's inherent right of self-defense. These rules vary between operations and may change during an operation. Adherence to them ensures Soldiers act consistently with international law, national policy, and military regulations.
What are rules of engagement?
The platoon leader must understand the limitations of the BFV-equipped mechanized Infantry platoon to effectively employ the platoon. These limitations include the following: BFVs are vulnerable to enemy antiarmor fires, attack helicopters, mines, AT guided missiles, and close attack aircraft. Rifle squads are vulnerable to small arms, improvised explosive device (IED), and indirect fires when not mounted. The foot speed of the dismounted Soldiers may establish the pace of operations. The BFV poses a variety of challenges in water-crossing operations. Between other things, the platoon could have difficulty finding adequate fording sites or a bridge with a sufficient weight classification. Radio communications may be significantly degraded in built-up areas and other restricted terrain. Noise generated by BFVs may prevent them from arriving in an area undetected.
What are some of the limitations of the BFV equipped infantry platoon?
The ICV is an eight-wheeled armored vehicle. It is a four-wheeled drive vehicle with selectable eight-wheeled drive and has— A sprint capability of 50 meters in 9 seconds. A sustained maximum speed of greater than 60 miles per hour (mph). A cruising range, at 40 mph, for 330 or more miles. Central Tire Inflation System. Run-flat tires.
What are the characteristics of the ICV?
Stryker Infantry platoon and squads are a versatile force that can fight mounted, dismounted while being supported by the Stryker vehicle, or dismounted and independent of the vehicles. The Stryker is a highly mobile vehicle that enables the Stryker Infantry to close with and destroy a lightly armored enemy with the Remote Weapon Station (RWS) weapon system while the dismounted Infantrymen, supported by the Stryker, can destroy the enemy in close combat.
What are the characteristics of the Stryker fighting vehicle?
The mechanized Infantry company is organized, equipped, and trained to fight with organic assets or as a task-organized company team. The mechanized Infantry company consists of a headquarters and three BFV platoons. Figure 1-13 illustrates the organization of a mechanized Infantry company.
What are the characteristics of the mechanized infantry company?
1 Observer identification-callsigns 2 Warning order-Adjust fire, Fire for effect, Suppress, Immediate Suppression/Smoke 3 Location of Target-Grid coordinate, shift from know point, polar plot, etc. 4 Description of Target-Type, Activity, Number, Protection, Size and Shape 5 Engagement Method-Adjustment type, Danger Close, Mark, Ammuntion, Dispersion 6 Method of fire/Method of control
What are the components of a call for fire request?
As the second-in charge, the platoon sergeant assumes no formal duties except those prescribed by the platoon leader. However, the platoon sergeant traditionally— Ensures the platoon is prepared to accomplish its mission, which includes supervising precombat checks and inspections. Updates platoon leader on appropriate reports and forwards reports needed by higher headquarters. Prepares to assume the role and responsibilities of the platoon leader. Takes charge of task-organized elements in the platoon during tactical operations, which may include but is not limited to, quartering parties, support elements in raids or attacks, and security patrols. Monitors the morale, discipline, and health of the platoon. Positions where best needed to help the engagement (either in the base of fire or with the assault element). Receives squad leaders' administrative, logistical, and maintenance reports, and requests rations, water, fuel, and ammunition. Requests logistical support from the higher headquarters, and usually coordinates with the company's first sergeant or executive officer. Ensures Soldiers maintain all equipment. Ensures ammunition and supplies are properly and evenly distributed after the platoon consolidates on the objective and while the platoon reorganizes. Manages the unit's combat load prior to operations, and monitors logistical status during operations. Establishes and operates the unit's casualty collection point (CCP). This includes directing the platoon medic and aid/litter teams in moving casualties, maintains platoon strength level information, consolidates and forwards the platoon's casualty reports, and receives and orients replacements. Employs the available digital mission command systems to the squads and platoon. Ensures Soldiers distribute supplies according to the platoon leader's guidance and direction. Accounts for Soldiers, equipment, and supplies. Coaches, counsels, and mentors Soldiers. Upholds standards and platoon discipline. Understands the mission and commander's intent two levels up (company and battalion).
What are the duties of the PSG?
The weapons squad leader is usually the senior squad leader, second only to the platoon sergeant, and performs all the duties of the rifle squad leader. In addition, the weapons squad leader Controls fires and establishes fire control measures. Recommends medium machine gun employment to the platoon leader. Coordinates directly with the platoon leader for medium machine gun base-of-fire effect, and plans accordingly. Monitors ammunition expenditure. Coordinates directly with the platoon leader in placement of the Javelin-CCMS to best cover armored avenues of approach in the defense and overwatch positions in the attack. Employs mission command systems available to the squad and platoon. Performs the role of the platoon sergeant as required. Conducts troop leading procedures. Understands the mission two levels up (platoon and company).
What are the duties of the WSL?
The BFV features an improved Bradley acquisition system, which adds an improved target acquisition subsystem and missile control subsystem. The improvements include a second-generation, forward-looking infrared thermal sight; a target-designation function; dual-target tracking; an eye-safe laser range finder; an automatic gun-target adjustment; automatic optical alignment; and "hunter-killer" capability. Second generation forward-looking infrared thermal sight allows the Bradley commander or gunner to identify and acquire targets beyond the range of the vehicle's weapon systems. The improved Bradley acquisition system enables the user to acquire, recognize, identify, and automatically track two targets within the same field of view and selected magnification, day or night. The M2A3 BFV can use the 25-mm cannon or 7.62-mm machine gun to engage either of two targets appearing in the same field of view and any aspect, and the TOW while stationary.
What are the features of the BFV?
The CLS— Ensures that the squad CLS bags and litters are properly packed and stored. Identifies Class VIII shortages to the platoon medic. + Provides enhanced first aid for injuries and participates in all litter-carry drills. Uses enhanced first-aid skills in the field until casualties can be evacuated. Knows the location of the casualty collection point and the tactical standard operating procedure (TACSOP) for establishing it.
What are the responsibilities of the CLS?
The grenadier— Accomplishes all tasks of the rifleman. Engages targets with appropriate type of rounds both day and night. Identifies 40-mm rounds by shape and color. He must know how to employ each type of round and know its minimum safety constraints. Knows the maximum ranges for each type of target of the grenade launcher. Knows the leaf sight increments without seeing the markings. Knows how to make an adjustment from the first round fired so a second-round hit can be attained. Loads the grenade launcher quickly in all firing positions and while running. Is prepared to assume the duties of the automatic rifleman and team leader. Understands the mission two levels up (squad and platoon).
What are the responsibilities of the grenadier?
Soldier's Rules are— Soldiers fight only enemy combatants. Soldiers do not harm enemies who surrender. They disarm them and turn them over to their superior. Soldiers do not kill or torture any personnel in their custody. Soldiers collect and care for the wounded, whether friend or enemy. Soldiers do not attack medical personnel, facilities, or equipment. Soldiers destroy no more than the mission requires. Soldiers treat civilians humanely. Soldiers respect private property and possessions. Soldiers should do their best to prevent violations of the law of war. Soldiers report all violations of the law of war to their superior.
What are the soldier's rules?
The BFV-equipped mechanized Infantry platoon can— Assault enemy positions. Assault with small arms and indirect fires to deliver rifle squads to tactical positions of advantage. Use 25-mm cannon and 7.62-mm machine gun fire to effectively suppress or destroy the enemy's Infantry. Block dismounted avenues of approach. Seize and retain key and decisive terrain. Clear danger areas and prepare positions for mounted elements. Conduct mounted or dismounted patrols and operations in support of security operations. Develop the situation through reconnaissance and close combat. Establish strong points to deny the enemy important terrain or flank positions. Infiltrate enemy positions. Overwatch and secure tactical obstacles. Repel enemy attacks through close combat. Participate in air assault operations. Destroy light armor vehicles using direct fire from the BFV. Employ 25-mm cannon fire to fix, suppress, or disrupt the movement of fighting vehicles and antiarmor systems up to 2500 meters. Use TOW fires to destroy tanks and fighting vehicles out to 3750 meters. Use Javelin fires to destroy tanks and fighting vehicles out to 2000 meters. Operate in a CBRN environment. Conduct stability tasks. Participate in Defense Support of Civil Authorities operations.
What are the tactical capabilities of the BFV equipped infantry platoon?
When looking for terrain features to use as control measures, leaders consider three types: contiguous; point; and area. Contiguous features follow major natural and manmade features such as ridgelines, valleys, trails, streams, power lines, and streets. Point features can be identified by a specific feature or a grid coordinate including, hilltops and prominent buildings. Area features are significantly larger than point features and require a combination of grid coordinates and terrain orientation.
What are three factors for selecting terrain features to use as control measures?
The BFV's four weapon systems include the 25-mm automatic gun, the 7.62-mm coaxial machine gun, the tube-launched, optically tracked, wire-guided (TOW) missile launcher system, and two smoke-grenade launchers.
What armaments are on the BFV?
The Infantry rifle company can deploy rapidly and be sustained by a support structure. (See figure 1-12, page 1-54.) The platoon's composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct missions against conventional and hybrid threats in all types of terrain and climate conditions. In addition to the Infantry rifle platoon's primary warfighting mission, it performs platoon level tasks in support of stability and defense support of civil authorities' tasks, semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force.
What characteristics foes the Infantry rifle company have?
Determining a suitable technique is based on the effectiveness of the enemy's fire and available cover and concealment. The more effective the enemy's fire, the lower the level of movement. Because the team leader leads his team, he is able to make this assessment firsthand. Other leaders must be sensitive to his decision on movement.
What determines the suitable movement technique in a combat situation?
Mission command conveys the leader's intent, and an appreciation of METT-TC, with special emphasis on— Enemy positions, strengths, and capabilities. Missions and objectives, including task and purpose, for each subordinate element. Commander's intent. Areas of operations for use of each subordinate element with associated control graphics. Time the operation is to begin. Scheme of maneuver. Special tasks required to accomplish the mission. Risk. Options for accomplishing the mission.
What does mission command convey?
Success in operations hinges on the actions of platoons, sections, and rifle squads in close combat. It depends on their ability to react to contact; employ suppressive fires; maneuver to an enemy's vulnerable flank; and fight through to defeat, destroy, or capture an enemy. For success, the BFV-equipped Infantry platoon relies on the ability of leaders and Soldiers to Use the potential of both the rifle squads and the BFV. Operate their weapons with accuracy and deadly effect. Outthink, outmaneuver, and outfight the enemy. Use terrain to their advantage.
What does operational success depend on for a BFV platoon?
Success in operations hinges on the actions of platoons, sections, and rifle squads in close combat. It depends on their ability to react to contact; employ suppressive fires; maneuver to an enemy's vulnerable flank; and fight through to defeat, destroy, or capture an enemy. For success, the ICV-equipped Infantry platoon relies on the ability of leaders and Soldiers to— Use the potential of both the rifle squads and the ICV. Operate their weapons with accuracy and deadly effect. Outthink, outmaneuver, and outfight the enemy. Use terrain to their advantage.
What does success of operations depend on?
Each of the three rifle squads consists of a rifle squad leader and ten Soldiers. The rifle squad leader is the senior tactical leader of the squad and controls the squad's movement and fires. He conducts squad training and maintains the squad's ability to conduct successful tactical missions.
What is the role of the rifle squad leader?
During operations, the squad leader— Is the subject matter expert on all battle and individual drills. Is the subject matter expert for the squad's organic weapons employment, and employment of supporting assets. Knows weapon effects, surface danger zones, and risk estimate distances for all munitions. Uses control measures for direct fire, indirect fire, and tactical movement effectively. Controls the movement of the squad and its rate and distribution of fire (including call for and adjust fire). Fights the close fight by fire and movement with two fire teams and available supporting weapons. Selects the fire team's general location and temporary sector of fires in the defense. Communicates timely and accurate situation reports (SITREPs) and status reports including— Size, activity, location, unit, time, and equipment (SALUTE) spot reports (SPOTREPs). Status to the platoon leader (including squad location and progress, enemy situation, enemy killed in action [KIA], and security posture). Status of ammunition, casualties, and equipment to the platoon sergeant. Employs digital mission command systems available to the squad and platoon. Operates in all environments to include the urban environment. Conducts troop leading procedures. Assumes duties as the platoon sergeant or platoon leader as required. Understands1 the mission and commander's intent two levels up (platoon and company).
What does the squad leader do during operations?
The platoon headquarters consists of the platoon leader, platoon sergeant, RTO, and attached fire support team and platoon combat medic. The platoon leader responsibilities include the employment of the platoon and all the platoon's systems. The platoon sergeant is the senior NCO in the platoon. He is second in succession of command and leads the platoon's mounted element when the platoon leader dismounts with the Infantry squads. He assists and advises the platoon leader and leads the platoon in the platoon leader's absence.
What elements are in the platoon headquarters?
Equipment on the BFV that helps ensure survivability includes— Roof fragmentation protection. Mounting capability for reactive armor tiles. Aluminum structure with steel appliqué spaced laminate, steel armor, or both. Titanium roof armor. 10-Soldier gas particulate filter unit. Halon fixed fire suppression systems in engine and personnel compartments. Portable carbon dioxide fire extinguishers. Bradley urban survivability kits.
What equipment on the BFV helps ensure survivability?
In addition to mission command warfighting function tasks, five additional tasks reside within the mission command warfighting function. These tasks are: Conduct military deception. Conduct civil affairs operations. Install, operate, and maintain the network. Conduct airspace control. Conduct information protection.
What five tasks reside within the mission command warfighting function?
Leaders must consider the following guidelines when employing mechanized Infantry during decisive operations: Squads and platoons fight through enemy contact at the lowest possible level. Upon enemy contact, all Soldiers and leaders must act at once and follow up. Battle drills are standard procedures that help the platoon take immediate action. Before they can maneuver, squads or platoons in contact must establish effective suppressive fires and gain fire superiority. If the platoon or squad cannot move under its own fires, the leader must request support from the commander. Once they gain fire superiority, they maneuver against an enemy position. The BFVs suppress the enemy, move to a dismount location (if caught in the open), and dismount the rifle squads. The BFVs quickly build a base of fire for the rifle squads to maneuver.
What guidelines must be followed when employing mechanized infantry during decisive operations?
A flanking attack is a form of offensive maneuver directed at the flank of an enemy force as illustrated in figure 2-6, page 2-10. A flank is the right or left side of a military formation and is not oriented toward the enemy. It is usually not as strong in terms of forces or fires as is the front of a military formation. A flank may be created by the attacker with fires or by a successful penetration. A flanking attack is similar to envelopment but generally conducted on a shallower axis. It is designed to defeat the enemy force while minimizing the effect of the enemy's frontally-oriented combat power. Flanking attacks normally are conducted with the main effort directed at the flank of the enemy. Usually, a supporting effort engages the enemy's front by fire and maneuver while the main effort maneuvers to attack the enemy's flank. This supporting effort diverts the enemy's attention from the threatened flank. Corps and divisions are the most likely echelons to conduct turning movements. It often is used for a hasty operation or meeting engagement where speed and simplicity are paramount to maintaining battle tempo and, ultimately, the initiative.
What is a flanking attack?
A frontal attack is a form of maneuver where an attacking force seeks to destroy a weaker enemy force, or fix a larger enemy in place over a broad front. An attacking force can use a frontal attack to overrun a weak enemy force. The leader commonly uses a frontal attack as a shaping operation in conjunction with other forms of maneuver.
What is a frontal attack?
A penetration is a form of maneuver where an attacking force seeks to rupture enemy defenses in a narrow front to disrupt the defensive system. Destroying the continuity of defense allows the enemy's subsequent isolation and defeat in detail by exploiting friendly forces. The penetration extends from the enemy's security area through main defensive positions into the enemy support area. The leader employs a penetration when there is no assailable flank, enemy defenses are overextended and weak spots are detected in the enemy's positions, or time pressures do not permit envelopment.
What is a penetration?
A turning movement is a form of maneuver in which the attacking force seeks to avoid the enemy's principle defensive positions by seizing objectives behind the enemy's current position. This causes the enemy forces to move out of their current positions or divert major forces to meet the threat. The leader uses this form of offensive maneuver to seize vital areas in the enemy's support area before the main enemy force can withdraw or receive reinforcements. This form of offensive maneuver transitions from an attack into a site exploitation or pursuit. A turning movement seeks to make the enemy force displace from their current locations, whereas an enveloping force seeks to engage the enemy in their current locations from an unexpected direction. Divisions normally execute turning movements.
What is a turning movement?
An area of operation defines the location where the subordinate units conduct their offensive. One technique breaks the battalion and company area of operation into many named smaller area of operation. Units remain in designated area of operation as they conduct their missions. Battalion and higher reconnaissance assets might be used to observe area of operation with no platoons in them, while platoons or companies provide their own reconnaissance in the area of operation.
What is an area of operation?
An infiltration is a form of maneuver where an attacking force conducts undetected movement through or into an area controlled by enemy forces. The goal is to occupy a position of advantage behind enemy positions while exposing only small friendly elements to their defensive fires. Infiltration occurs by land, water, air, or a combination of means. Moving and assembling forces covertly through enemy positions takes a considerable amount of time. To infiltrate, the force avoids detection and engagement. Since this requirement limits the size and strength of the infiltrating force, and infiltrated forces alone rarely can defeat an enemy, infiltration normally is used in conjunction with and in support for other forms of maneuver.
What is an infiltration?
Audacity is a simple plan of action, boldly executed. Audacity inspires Soldiers to overcome adversity and danger. It is a key component of all offensive actions, increasing the chance for surprise. Audacity depends upon the leader's ability to see opportunities for action, decide in enough time to seize opportunities, and accept prudent risks. Leaders understand when and where to take risks, plan, and execute boldly.
What is audacity?
Concentration is the massing of overwhelming effects of combat power to achieve a single purpose. Leaders balance the necessity for concentrating forces to mass effects against the need to disperse forces in order to avoid creating lucrative targets. Advances in ground, air mobility, target acquisition, and long-range precision fires enable attackers to concentrate effects. Mission command systems provide reliable, relevant information that assist commanders in determining when to concentrate forces to mass effects.
What is concentration?
Envelopment is a form of maneuver in which an attacking force seeks to avoid the principal enemy defenses by seizing objectives behind those defenses allowing the targeted enemy force to be destroyed in their current positions. BCTs and above normally plan and conduct envelopments. At the tactical level, envelopments focus on seizing terrain, destroying specific enemy forces, and interdicting enemy withdrawal routes. The leader's decisive operation focuses on attacking an assailable flank. It avoids the enemy's strength at the front where the effects of fires and obstacles are greatest. Generally, the leader prefers to conduct envelopment instead of a penetration or frontal attack because the attacking force tends to suffer fewer casualties while having the most opportunities to destroy the enemy. Envelopment also produces great psychological shock on the enemy. If no assailable flank is available, the attacking force creates one. The four varieties of envelopment are single envelopment, double envelopment, encirclement, and vertical envelopment.
What is envelopment?
Exploitation follows an attack and disorganizes the enemy in-depth (Refer to FM 3-90-1 for more information.) Exploitations seek to disintegrate enemy forces to the point where they have no alternative but surrender or retreat. Exploitation take advantage of tactical opportunities, foreseen or unforeseen. Division and higher headquarters normally plan site exploitations as branches or sequels plans. However, the Infantry platoon and squad may participate as part of the fixing force or striking force.
What is exploitation?
Movement to contact is an offensive task designed to develop the situation and establish or regain contact. (Refer to FM 3-90-1 for more information.) It creates favorable conditions for subsequent tactical actions. The leader conducts a movement to contact when the enemy situation is vague or not specific enough to conduct an attack. Forces executing this task seek to make contact with the smallest friendly force possible. A movement to contact may result in a meeting engagement, which is a combat action occurring when a moving force engages an enemy at an unexpected time and place. Once making contact with an enemy force, the leader has five options: attack, defend, bypass, delay, or withdraw. Two movement to contact techniques are search and attack, and cordon and search.
What is movement to contact?
A pursuit is an offensive task designed to catch or cut off a hostile force attempting to escape, with the aim of destroying them. (Refer to FM 3-90-1 for more information.) A pursuit normally follows exploitation. Transition into a pursuit can occur if it is apparent enemy resistance has broken down entirely and the enemy is fleeing the area of operation. Pursuits entail rapid movement, decentralized control and clear commanders' intent to facilitate control.
What is pursuit?
Tempo is the relative speed and rhythm of military operations over time with respect to the enemy. Controlling or altering tempo is necessary to retain the initiative. A faster tempo allows attackers to quickly penetrate barriers and defenses, and destroy enemy forces in-depth before they can react. Leaders adjust tempo as tactical situations, sustainment necessity, or operational opportunities allow. This ensures synchronization and proper coordination, but not at the expense of losing opportunities, that defeats the enemy. Rapid tempo demands quick decisions. It denies the enemy the chance to rest while continually creating offensive opportunities.
What is tempo?
The CLS is a nonmedical Soldier trained to provide enhanced first aid/lifesaving procedures beyond the level of self-aid or buddy aid. The CLS is not intended to take the place of medical personnel. Using specialized training, the CLS can slow deterioration of a wounded Soldier's condition until treatment by medical personnel is possible. Each certified CLS is issued a CLS aid bag. Whenever possible, the platoon leader ensures each fire team includes at least one CLS.
What is the CLS? What is the purpose of the CLS?
The platoon sergeant is the platoon's most experienced NCO and second-in-charge, accountable to the platoon leader for leadership, discipline, training, and welfare of the platoon's Soldiers. He sets the example in everything. He assists the platoon leader by upholding standards and platoon discipline. His expertise includes tactical maneuver, employment of weapons and systems, sustainment, administration, security, accountability, protection warfighting functions, and Soldier care.
What is the PSG responsible for?
The platoon leader leads his Soldiers by personal example and is responsible for all the platoon does or fails to do, having complete authority over his subordinates. This centralized authority enables him to maintain unit discipline, unity, and to act decisively. He must be prepared to exercise initiative within his company commander's intent and without specific guidance for every situation. The platoon leader knows his Soldiers, how to employ the platoon, its weapons, and its systems. Relying on the expertise of the platoon sergeant, the platoon leader regularly consults with him on all platoon matters.
What is the Platoon Leader responsible for?
The weapons squad leader leads his teams by personal example. He has complete authority over his subordinates and overall responsibility for those subordinates' actions. This centralized authority enables him to act decisively while maintaining troop discipline and unity. Under the fluid conditions of modern warfare, he accomplishes assigned missions using disciplined initiative without needing constant guidance from higher headquarters.
What is the WSL responsible for?
In the Infantry platoon, the platoon leader is the central figure in mission command and is essential to integrating the capabilities of the warfighting functions. Mission command invokes the greatest possible freedom of action to his subordinates, facilitating their abilities to develop the situation, adapt, and act decisively through disciplined initiative within the platoon leader's intent. It focuses on empowering subordinate leaders and sharing information to facilitate decentralized execution.
What is the central figure for mission command in the infantry platoon?
The combat load for an SLM is two per rifle squad. Either two M72-series light antitank (AT) weapon, M136-series antitank (AT4), M141 bunker defeat munitions (BDMs), or a combination of are normally issued to the rifleman.
What is the combat load for SLMs?
Gain and maintain enemy contact. Disrupt the enemy. Fix the enemy. Maneuver. Follow through.
What is the five-step sequence of the offense during execution?
The warfighting functions are critical activities leaders use to plan, to prepare, and to execute. Synchronization and coordination among the warfighting functions is critical for success. This section discusses warfighting functions and other planning considerations.
What is the importance of warfighting functions?
Currently, there is only one type of Infantry squad and its primary role is a maneuver or base-of-fire element. While the platoon's task organization may change, the Infantry squad's organization generally remains standard.
What is the infantry squad used for?
Leaders at all levels ensure their Soldiers operate according to the law of war. This also is called the law of armed conflict and is the body of international law that regulates the conduct of armed hostilities. The purposes of the law of war are to protect combatants and noncombatants from unnecessary suffering, make the transition to peace easier, and safeguard the rights of enemy prisoners of war (EPWs), detainees, the wounded and sick, and civilians.
What is the law of war?
When referring to the medium machine gun in this manual, it refers to the M240-series machine gun. There are several variants of the M240. They are the M240, M240B, M240C, M240D, M240E, M240G, M240H and M240L, each supporting their specific platform. The M240B is the standard Infantry medium machine gun of the U.S. Army. The M240L machine gun is the next generation medium machine gun, currently being fielded to replace the M240B.
What is the medium machine gun commonly used by gun teams?
The platoon radiotelephone operator (RTO) primarily is responsible for communication with its controlling headquarters (usually the company). During operations, the RTO— Has communications at all times. If communication with the platoon's next higher element is lost, the radiotelephone operator immediately informs the platoon leader or platoon sergeant and reestablishes communication. Conducts radio checks with higher according to unit standard operating procedures when in a static position. If radio contact cannot be made as required, he informs the platoon sergeant or platoon leader. Is an expert in radio procedures and report formats such as close combat attack (seefigure 1-5), call for indirect fire (see figure 1-6, page 1-24), or medical evacuation (see table 7-1, page 7-5). Plus is an expert on types of field expedient antennas. Has the frequencies and call signs on his person in a location known to all Soldiers in the platoon. Assists the platoon leader with information management. Assists the platoon leader and platoon sergeant employing digital mission command systems with the squads and platoon. Determines his combat load prior to operations and manages battery utilization during operations.
What is the platoon RTO responsible for?
OBSERVER/ WARNING ORDER (AIRCRAFT CALL SIGN), this is (OBSERVER CALL SIGN), Fire Mission, Over FRIENDLY LOCATION AND MARKING My Position (GRID), marked by (Strobe, Beacon, IR Strobe, etc.) TARGET LOCATION Target Location (Magnetic bearing and range in meters, Grid, etc.) TARGET DESCRIPTION AND MARKING (Target Description), marked by (IR Pointer, Tracers, etc.) REMARKS "Over"
What is the process for a Close Air Support Request?
A TRP facilitates the responsiveness of fixing and finishing elements once the reconnaissance element detects the enemy. Objectives and checkpoints guide the movement of subordinates and help leaders control their organizations. Contact points help coordination among the units operating in adjacent areas.
What is the purpose of a target reference point?
An attack destroys or defeats enemy forces, seizes and secures terrain, or both. (Refer to FM 3-90-1 for more information.) Attacks incorporate coordinated movement supported by direct and indirect fires. They may be decisive or shaping operations and hasty or deliberate, depending upon the time available for assessing the situation, planning, and preparing. However, based on METT-TC, the leader may decide to conduct an attack using only fires. An attack differs from a movement to contact because enemy main body dispositions are at least partially known, allowing the leader to achieve greater synchronization. This enables the massing effects of attacking forces combat power more effective in an attack than in a movement to contact.
What is the purpose of an attack?
The Infantry weapons squad provides the primary base of fire for the platoon's maneuver. It is comprised of two medium machine gun teams, two medium CCMS teams, and a weapons squad leader.
What is the purpose of the weapons squad?
He is normally the senior Soldier of the fire team and must— Be able to accomplish all tasks of the rifleman and grenadier. Be prepared to assume the duties of team leader and squad leader. Be able to engage groups of enemy personnel, thin-skinned vehicles, bunker doors or apertures, and suspected enemy locations with automatic fire. Be able to provide suppressive fire on these targets so his teammates can close with and destroy the enemy. Be familiar with field expedient firing aids to enhance the effectiveness of his weapon: an example is aiming stakes. Be able to engage targets from the prone, kneeling, and standing positions with and without night observation devices, and understands the mission two levels up (squad and platoon).
What is the responsibility of the automatic rifleman?
The assistant gunner is the second member of the gun team. He is prepared to assume the gunner's role in any situation. During operations, the assistant gunner— Provides a supply of ammunition to the gun when employed. Spots rounds and reports recommended corrections to the gunner. Constantly updates the weapons squad leader on the round count and serviceability of the medium machine gun. Watches for Soldiers to the flanks of the target area or between the gun and target. Obtains ammunition from other Soldiers who are carrying 7.62-mm machine gun ammunition. Immediately assumes the role of gunner if the gunner is unable to continue his duties. Understands the mission two levels up (squad and platoon).
What is the role of the AG?
The designated antiarmor specialist has a Javelin AT missile system. This weapon system gives the squad, platoon, and company a lethal fire-and-forget, man-portable, top attack antiarmor capability. With it, they can defeat enemy main battle tanks up to 2000 meters during day, night, and in adverse weather conditions. If required, the squad antiarmor specialist destroys enemy armor threats that might impede the squad or platoon's progress.
What is the role of the AT specialist?
The combat lifesaver (CLS) is a nonmedical Soldier trained to provide enhanced first aid/lifesaving procedures beyond the level of self-aid or buddy aid. The CLS is not intended to take the place of medical personnel. Using specialized training, the CLS can slow deterioration of a wounded Soldier's condition until treatment by medical personnel is possible. Each certified CLS is issued a CLS aid bag. Whenever possible, the platoon leader ensures each fire team includes at least one CLS.
What is the role of the CLS?
During operations, the platoon leader— Leads the platoon in supporting the higher headquarters missions. He bases his actions on his assigned mission and intent and concept of his higher commanders. Conducts troop leading procedures. Maneuvers squads and fighting elements. Synchronizes the efforts of squads. Looks ahead to the next "move" of the platoon. Requests, controls, and synchronizes supporting assets. Employs mission command systems available to the squads and platoon. Checks with squad leaders ensuring 360-degree, three-dimensional security is maintained. Checks with weapons squad leader controlling the emplacement of key weapon systems. Issues accurate and timely reports. Places himself where he is most needed to accomplish the mission. Assigns clear tasks and purposes to the squads. Understands the mission and commander's intent two levels up (company and battalion). Receives on-hand status reports from the platoon sergeant and squad leaders during planning. Coordinates and assists in the development of the obstacle plan. Oversees and is responsible for property management.
What is the role of the PL during operations?
The automatic rifleman's primary weapon is currently the 5.56-mm M249 light machine gun. The automatic rifleman provides the unit with a high volume of sustained suppressive direct fires of area targets. The automatic rifleman employs his weapon system to suppress enemy Infantry and bunkers, destroy enemy automatic rifle and AT teams, and enable the movement of other teams and squads.
What is the role of the automatic rifleman?
The squad-designated marksman employs an optically enhanced general-purpose weapon. He also receives training available within the unit's resources to improve the squad's precision engagement capabilities at short and medium ranges. A rifleman may be assigned as the squad-designated marksman. He is chosen for his demonstrated shooting ability, maturity, reliability, good judgment, and experience. He must be able to execute the entire range of individual and collective rifleman tasks within the squad. The squad designated marksman is not the squad sniper, he is a fully integrated member of the rifle squad and provides an improved capability for the rifle squad. He does not operate as a semi-autonomous element on the battlefield as a sniper, nor does he routinely engage targets at the extreme ranges common to snipers
What is the role of the designated marksman?
The forward observer (FO), along with his RTO, is the platoon subject matter expert on indirect planning and execution. He advises the platoon leadership on the employment and execution for all fire support assets, including company mortars (if assigned), battalion mortars, field artillery, and other allocated fire support assets. He is responsible for locating targets, and calling and adjusting indirect fires. The fire support team also knows the mission and concept of operation, specifically the platoon's scheme of maneuver and concept of fires, and is the platoon leader's indirect fire expert.
What is the role of the forward observer?
The grenadier currently is equipped with an M203/M320 weapon system consisting of an M16-series or M4-series rifle/carbine and an attached 40-mm grenade launcher. He provides the fire team with a high trajectory and an HE capability out to 350 meters. His fire enables the fire team to achieve complementary effects with high trajectory, HE munitions, and flat trajectory ball ammunition from the team's weapons. The grenade launcher allows the grenadier to perform three functions: suppress and destroy enemy Infantry and lightly armored vehicles with HE or high explosive dual purpose (HEDP); provide obscurants to screen and cover his squad's fire and movement; and employ illumination rounds to increase his squad's visibility and mark enemy positions.
What is the role of the grenadier?
The gunner is normally the senior member of the medium machine gun team. During operations, the gunner— Is responsible for his assistant gunner and all the gun equipment. Is responsible for putting the gun in and out of action. Is the subject matter expert for information contained in FM 3-22.68. When attached to a rifle squad, is the subject matter expert for employment of the medium machine gun, and advises the rifle squad leader of the best way to employ the medium machine gun. Enforces field discipline while the gun team is employed tactically. Knows the ballistic effects of the weapon on all types of targets. Assists the weapons squad leader and is prepared to assume his responsibilities. Understands the mission two levels up (squad and platoon).
What is the role of the gunner?
The rifleman provides the baseline standard for all Infantry Soldiers and is an integral part of the fire team. The rifleman is an expert in handling and employing the weapon and placing well-aimed fire on the enemy. Additionally, the rifleman must— Be an expert on his weapon system, his rifle, its optics, and its laser-aiming device, and is effective with this weapon system day or night. Be capable of engaging all targets with well-aimed shots. Employ all weapons of the squad, as well as common munitions. Construct and occupy a hasty firing position and know how to fire from it. He must know how to occupy covered and concealed positions in all environments and what protection they provide from direct fire weapons, and is competent in the performance of these tasks while using night vision devices. Fight as part of his unit, which includes proficiency in his individual tasks and drills. Know the duties of his teammates and is prepared to fill in with their weapons, if needed. Contribute as a member of special teams, including detainee search, aid/litter, demolitions and. wire/mine breach teams. Inform his team leader of everything he hears and sees when in a tactical situation. Perform individual preventive medical measures. Administer buddy aid as required. Manage his food, water, and ammunition during operations. Be prepared to assume the duties of the automatic rifleman and team leader. Understand the mission two levels up (squad and platoon).
What is the role of the rifleman?
The squad leader directs team leaders and leads by personal example. He has authority over his subordinates and overall responsibility of those subordinates' actions. Centralized authority enables him to act decisively while maintaining troop discipline and unity. Under the fluid conditions of close combat, the squad leader accomplishes assigned missions without constant guidance from higher headquarters.
What is the role of the squad leader?
The team leader leads his team members by personal example and has authority over his subordinates and overall responsibility of their actions. Centralized authority enables him to maintain troop discipline and unity and to act decisively. Under the fluid conditions of close combat, he accomplishes assigned missions using initiative without needing constant guidance from higher headquarters.
What is the role of the team leader?
The squad leader is the senior Infantry Soldier in the squad and is responsible for everything the squad does or fails to do. He is responsible for the care of the squad's Soldiers, weapons, and equipment, and leads the squad through two team leaders.
What is the squad leader responsible for?
The two-man close combat missile team is comprised of a gunner and an ammunition handler. Currently, the team uses the Javelin missile system. The weapon squad has two close combat missile system teams. This system provides the platoon with an extremely lethal fire-and-forget, man-portable, direct- and top-attack capability to defeat enemy armored vehicles and destroy fortified positions at ranges up to 2000 meters. The Javelin has proven effective during day, night, and adverse weather conditions.
What is the structure and purpose of the close combat missile team?
The two-man medium machine gun team is comprised of a gunner and an assistant gunner. The weapon squad has two medium machine gun teams. These teams provide the platoon with medium-range area suppression at ranges up to 1100 meters during day, night, and adverse weather conditions.
What is the structure and purpose of the machine gun team?
The Infantry squad is a model for all tactical task organizations. It is comprised of two fire teams and a squad leader. It can establish a base of fire, providing security for another element, or conducting fire and movement with one team providing a base of fire, while the other team moves to the next position of advantage or onto an objective. The squad leader has two subordinate leaders to lead the two teams, freeing him to control the entire squad.
What is the structure of an infantry squad?
The combined arms battalion has two mechanized Infantry companies and two Armor companies. Application of Armor and mechanized Infantry companies as a combined arms team can capitalize on the strengths the company elements while minimizing their limitations.
What is the structure of the combined arms battalion?
Each squad has two grenadiers with an M320/203 weapon system, which comprises a carbine with an attached 40-mm grenade launcher. The M320/203 can be used in two ways. It can be attached to the M16 assault rifle and the M4 carbine, attaching under the barrel forward of the magazine, or it can be used dismounted with a stock attached as a standalone model.
What is the structure of the grenadiers within the squad?
The team leader's position on the battlefield requires immediacy and accuracy in all of his actions and is a fighting leader who leads by example. He is responsible for all his team does or fails to do, and is responsible for caring of the team's Soldiers, weapons, and equipment. During operations, the team leader— Is the subject matter expert for all the team's weapons and duty positions and all squad battle drills. Leads his team in fire and movement. Controls the movement of his team and its rate and distribution of fire. Employs digital mission command systems available to the squad and platoon. Ensures security of the team's area of operations. Assists the squad leader as required. Is prepared to assume the duties of squad leader and platoon sergeant. Enforces field discipline and preventive medicine measures. Determines his team's combat load and manages its available classes of supply as required. Understands the mission two levels up (squad and platoon).
What is the team leader responsible for?
Platoon leaders and squad leaders must understand the principles and TTP associated with the offense. They must comprehend their role when operating within a larger organization's operations, and when operating independently. Leaders must recognize the complementary and reinforcing effects of other maneuver elements and supporting elements with their own capabilities, and understand the impact of open or restrictive terrain on their operations. The platoon conducts the offense to deprive the enemy of resources, seize decisive terrain, deceive or divert the enemy, develop intelligence, or hold an enemy in position. This chapter covers the basic principles of the offense, common offensive planning considerations, actions on contact, movement to contact attack, and transitions.
What must platoon leaders understand about the offense?
When maneuvering the team, the team fights using one of three techniques. This includes: Individual movement techniques. This is the lowest level of movement. Buddy team fire and movement. Fire team fire and movement (maneuver).
What three techniques does the fireteam use to fight?
Infantry units can operate in all terrain and weather conditions. They might be the dominant force because of rapid strategic deployment. In such cases, they can take and gain the initiative early, seize and retain or control terrain, and mass fires to stop the enemy. Infantry units are particularly effective in urban terrain, where they can infiltrate and move rapidly to the rear of enemy positions. The leader can enhance their mobility by using helicopters and airlift.
Where can infantry units operate?
The fundamental considerations for employing Infantry units result from the missions, types, equipment, capabilities, limitations, and organization of units. Other capabilities result from a unit's training program, leadership, morale, personnel strengths, and many other factors. These other capabilities constantly change based on the current situation.
Where do considerations for infantry unit deployment result from?