18 Questions
What is a primary purpose of patrol missions?
To gather information or make contact with the enemy
How do leaders usually plan and prepare for patrols?
By utilizing the troop leading procedure (TLP) and estimating positions
What do reconnaissance patrols primarily provide?
Timely and accurate information on the enemy and terrain
In which direction do leaders plan patrols starting from the objective?
Backward to the reentry of friendly lines and forward to the departure from friendly lines
What is a key aspect of preparing for tracking patrols?
Understanding how to read and follow signs left by the enemy
How do combat patrols differ from reconnaissance patrols?
Combat patrols prioritize engaging the enemy over information gathering
What is the main purpose of a reconnaissance patrol?
To follow the trail of a specific enemy unit and gather information.
What may a tracking patrol be complemented with?
K-9 units
In a combat patrol, what are the two types of missions mentioned?
Ambush and raid
What does a squad leader consider in conducting reconnaissance of the objective during a combat patrol?
Using the ORP as a base
What is unique about an ambush, according to the text?
It is a deliberate surprise attack from a concealed position
How does a tracking unit differ from a combat patrol?
Tracking units focus on gathering information by following enemy trails
Which of the following is NOT a common task performed by a raid squad?
Holding a position indefinitely
What is the primary objective of a raid?
To secure information and harass the enemy
What is the purpose of linkup operations during a raid?
To resupply, consolidate forces, and coordinate
Which of the following is NOT a patrol planning consideration?
Hold fire until commanded
What is the objective of a reconnaissance patrol?
To secure information about the enemy
Which patrol type aims to observe and report enemy movements?
Reconnaissance patrol
Study Notes
Patrolling
- Patrolling is one of the most common activities that a squad will undertake to gather information or establish contact with the enemy.
- Patrol mission can be done independently or as part of a platoon or higher unit operation.
Patrol Planning Considerations
- Leaders plan and prepare for patrols using the Troop Leading Procedure (TLP) and the Estimate of the Situation.
- Identify required actions on the objective, then plan backward to the departure from friendly lines and forward to the re-entry of friendly lines.
Reconnaissance Patrol
- Provides timely and accurate information on the enemy and terrain.
- Confirms the squad leader's plan before it is executed.
- There are three types of reconnaissance patrols: area, zone, and route.
Tracking Patrol
- Follows the trail of a specific enemy unit to gather information.
- Looks for signs left by the enemy and gathers information about the enemy unit, route, and surrounding terrain.
- May be complemented with K-9 units.
Combat Patrol
- Conducted to destroy or capture enemy soldiers or equipment, destroy installations, facilities, or key points, or harass enemy forces.
- Provides security for larger units.
- Two types of combat patrol missions: ambush and raid.
Ambush
- A surprise attack from a concealed position on a moving or temporarily halted target.
- Classified by category (hasty or deliberate), type (point or area), and formation (linear or L-shaped).
Raid
- A surprise attack on an enemy unit or installation, followed by withdrawal of the attacking force after accomplishment of the mission.
- Conducted to secure information, harass the enemy, destroy enemy positions or installations, destroy or capture troops, equipment, or liberate personnel.
- Organized with an assault and security element.
Raid Considerations
- Movement to the objective area
- Control
- Training
- Fire Support
- Timing
- Withdrawal
- Link-Up Operations
Link-Up Operations
- Conducted to consolidate forces, coordinate, or resupply.
- Normally occur in enemy-controlled areas.
- Successful linkups depend on detailed planning and coordination.
Test your knowledge on Infantry Rifle Platoons and squads fighting tactics in conventional and counterinsurgency environments. Topics include patrolling, patrol planning, reconnaissance, tracking, combat patrol, reaction to ambush, and breaking contact.
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