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Lesson 1
ORGANIZATION OF A BRADLEY FIGHTING VEHICLE
PLATOON, MOVEMENT FORMATIONS AND
TECHNIQUES EMPLOYED BY THE BFV PLATOON
DURING MOUNTED AND DISMOUNTED OPERATIONS
OVERVIEW
Lesson Description:
Organization of a Bradley Fighting Vehicle Platoon (BFV), Movement Formations and Techniques Employed by the BFV Platoon during Mounted and Dismounted Operations.
Terminal Learning Objective:
| Action: | Identify the organization of a mechanized infantry platoon equipped with the BFV, and movement formations and techniques employed by the platoon during mounted and dismounted operations. |
| Condition: | Given the subcourse material for this lesson, a training scenario, and extracts, as applicable, the student will complete the practice exercise at the end of this lesson. |
| Standard: | The student will demonstrate his knowledge and comprehension of the task by identifying the organization of the mechanized infantry platoon equipped with the BFV; identifying movement techniques and formations used by the BFV platoon during mounted and dismounted operations. |
| Reference: | The material in this lesson was derived from the following publication:
FM 7-7J 1993 |
INTRODUCTION
This lesson shows how the BFV platoon is organized. It describes the concepts, formations, and techniques for movement of the BFV platoon in both mounted and dismounted modes. In order to do his job effectively, the Bradley commander must understand how the platoon is organized for combat. He must also know how the platoon conducts both mounted and dismounted movements.
IDENTIFY THE ORGANIZATION OF THE
BRADLEY FIGHTING VEHICLE PLATOON
2. Mounted Element. The mechanized infantry platoon is equipped with four BFVs. The mounted element includes two sections (A and B) with two vehicles each-the section leader's vehicle and his wingman vehicle. One section may serve as the base of fire while the other section moves. Personnel seating is based on the principles that leadership and area suppression weapons should be dismounted as early as possible (Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2). 1st Squad, when mounted, rides in Section A BFVs, and 2d Squad rides in Section B BFVs ( Figure 1-3).
a. The platoon leader, his forward observer, and his assistant gunner ride in the platoon headquarters vehicle (BFV 1) in Section A. The platoon sergeant, aidman, and FO RATELO ride in the platoon sergeant's vehicle (BFV 4) in Section B. The platoon RATELO rides in BFV 2.
b. Team A, 1st Squad rides in BFV 1. Team B, 1st Squad and squad leader ride in the platoon leader's wingman vehicle (BFV 2). The BC of BFV 2 is the platoon master gunner. His vehicle orients on the platoon leader's BFV. When the platoon leader dismounts, BFV 2 remains the wingman of BFV 1.
Figure 1-1. BFV Personnel Seating (Section A).
c. The platoon sergeant is usually mounted and controls the mounted element. He may take control of the dismount element as needed. Team B, 2d Squad and squad leader ride in BFV 3. Team A, 2d Squad rides with the platoon sergeant (BFV 4).
Figure 1-2. BFV Personnel Seating (Section B).
Figure 1-3. Bradley Infantry Platoon Organization.
3. Dismount Element. The dismount element consists of two squads of nine soldiers each including a squad leader and two team leaders. The leader of the dismount element is usually the platoon leader. The platoon sergeant may lead the dismount element when the mounted fight is the main effort and the situation dictates that the platoon leader remain mounted. The BFVs serve as the base of fire for the dismount element. The squads have the capability of setting up a base of fire to fire and move. A squad can also provide its own overwatch element and conduct independent fire and maneuver when required.
b. If a dismount is executed in response to an unexpected, life-threatening situation where speed is essential, then only the squads dismount. The BFVs immediately suppress and obscure the enemy while moving to covered dismount points. A quick estimate is made to determine if and when the platoon leader joins the dismounted element. Until that time, the senior squad leader controls the dismount element to develop the situation, to provide local security, or to reconnoiter. When the platoon leader dismounts, the senior squad leader performs platoon sergeant duties as designated by the platoon leader.
c. The ability of the squads to fight independently from the BFVs offers the platoon leader and company commander numerous employment options. Because the BFVs can fight effectively when the fire teams dismount, the platoon can fight as two separate elements. The distinct characteristics and advantages provided by the separate elements are simultaneously reinforcing and complementary to each other.
4. Duties and Responsibilities. The BFV requires a fully trained crew. It carries a fire team whose primary role is to dismount and fight on the ground. The leadership of the BFV-equipped platoon is balanced between the fighting vehicles and the two squads. Leaders' roles are complex to accommodate this powerful and flexible capability. Each member of the platoon must be trained and prepared to perform his duties. The organization provides for career progression and depth. There is a mounted and dismounted functions and job position for each skill level throughout the platoon. It provides for well-rounded soldiers who can fill voids created by personnel losses in combat or personnel turbulence (changes) or shortfalls in peacetime.
a. Platoon Leader. He is responsible for all that the platoon does or fails to do. This includes the tactical employment, collective training, administration, personnel management, and logistics of his platoon. He must know his soldiers and how to employ the platoon's weapons. He is personally responsible for positioning and employing all assigned or attached weapons. He must also know how to employ supporting weapons. He bases his actions on the mission the company commander assigns him, the concepts of the company and battalion commanders, and his own estimate of the situation. The platoon leader—
(1) Serves as BC and section leader when mounted.
(2) Normally dismounts when the situation causes the platoon to dismount.
(3) Sets the example and the standards.
(4) Leads the platoon to support the company and battalion missions.
(5) Informs his commander of his actions when operating without orders.
(6) Plans with the help of the platoon sergeant, squad leaders, and other key personnel (FO, leaders of attachments, and so on).
(7) Stays abreast of the situation and goes where he is needed to supervise, issue FRAGOs, and accomplish the mission.
(8) Requests more support for his platoon from the company commander to perform its mission, if needed.
(9) Assists the platoon sergeant in planning and coordinating the platoon's CSS effort.
(10) During planning, receives on-hand status reports from the platoon sergeant, squad leader, or both.
(11) Reviews platoon requirements based on the tactical plan.
(12) Develops a casualty evacuation plan.
(13) During execution, checks the work of the platoon sergeant and squad leaders.
b. Platoon Sergeant. He is the senior NCO in the platoon and second in succession of command. He helps and advises the platoon leader, and he leads the platoon in the platoon leader's absence. He supervises the platoon's administration, logistics, and maintenance. He may prepare and issue paragraph 4 of the platoon OPORD. The platoon sergeant is responsible for individual training. He must ensure that soldiers can perform their individual MOS tasks. He advises the platoon leader on appointments, promotions and reductions, assignments, and discipline of NCOs and enlisted soldiers in the platoon. The platoon sergeant—
(1) Serves as BC and section leader when mounted.
(2) In some instances, commands and controls the dismount element.
(3) Controls the mounted element when the platoon leader dismounts.
(4) Receives Bradley commander's and squad leader's administrative, logistical, and maintenance reports and requests for rations, water, fuel, and ammunition. He works with the company's first sergeant or XO to request resupply. He also directs the routing of supplies and mail.
(5) Directs the platoon aidman and platoon aid and litter teams in moving casualties to the rear.
(6) Maintains platoon strength information, consolidates and forwards the platoon's casualty reports (DA Forms 1155 and 1156), and receives and orients replacements.
(7) Monitors the morale, discipline, and health of platoon members.
(8) Takes charge of task-organized elements in the platoon during tactical operations. This can include, but is not limited to, the following—
(a) Quartering parties.
(b) Security forces in withdrawals.
(c) Support elements in raids or attacks.
(d) Security patrols in night attacks.
(9) Coordinates and supervises company-directed platoon resupply operations.
(10) Ensures that supplies are distributed IAW the platoon leader's guidance and direction.
(11) Ensure that ammunition and supplies are properly and evenly distributed (a critical task during consolidation and reorganization).
(12) Ensure that the casualty evacuation plan is complete and executed properly.
c. Bradley Commander. The BC remains mounted and is responsible for commanding the vehicle in relation to the section and platoon. He is responsible for acquiring targets, issuing fire commands, laying the gun for deflection, and controlling vehicle fires to include firing port weapons. The BC is primary responsible for the overall maintenance of the BFVs' weapons systems and the automotive and turret portion of the vehicle. He is also responsible for the weapons training and welfare of the crew. The BCs on BFVs 2 and 3 are responsible for the training, health and welfare of the crews of the two BFVs in their sections.
d. Squad Leader. There are two squads each led by a staff sergeant. Their squads are habitually associated with a vehicle section. The senior dismounted squad leader is also responsible for the employment of the dismount element until the platoon leader or PSG arrives. He is responsible for all that the squad does or fails to do. He is a tactical leader and, as such, leads by example. The squad leader—
(1) Assists the BC in maintaining the BFVs.
(2) Controls the maneuver of his squad and its rate and distribution of fire. To do this, he controls two fire teams in the offense; selects each fighting position in the defense; and gives the proper commands, codes, and signals to start, stop, and shift fires.
(3) Trains his squad on the individual and collective tasks required to sustain combat effectiveness.
(4) Manages the logistical and administrative needs of his squad. He requests and issues ammunition, water, rations, and special equipment.
(5) Maintains accountability of his soldiers and equipment.
(6) Completes casualty feeder reports and reviews the casualty reports completed by squad members.
(7) Submits requests for awards and decorations.
(8) Directs the maintenance of the squad's weapons, and equipment.
(9) Inspects the condition of soldiers' weapons, clothing, and equipment.
(10) Ensure that material and supplies are distributed to the soldier in the squad.
(11) Keeps the platoon leader and platoon sergeant informed on squad supply status and squad requirements.
(12) Ensures supplies and equipment are internally cross-leveled within the squad.
e. Platoon Master Gunner. The platoon master gunner is the BC for BFV 2 and the platoon leader's wingman. He is the platoon leader's technical expert on gunnery and turret weapons systems. During combat or field exercises, he advises the platoon leader and PSG on BFV weapons effects, capabilities, and safety. He advises on fire control measures and preparation. He is the key technical trainer of the mounted element under routine supervision of the platoon sergeant. He helps the platoon leader establish the gunnery task for training.
f. Team Leader. Two fire team leaders are in each squad. They perform the same functions as team leaders in all infantry rifle squads and are habitually associated with a specific BFV. They assist the squad leader in the tactical control of the squad. They lead by example. They control the movement and fires of the fire teams. They must keep the soldiers in the troop compartment well informed and alert. They assist the squad leader in training team members on the individual and collective tasks and battle drills. Team members provide the necessary local security and maintenance support for the BFV. They are responsible for the welfare of their teams.
g. Gunner. The gunner observes the battlefield to detect enemy targets. He operates the turret weapons as directed by the BC. The gunner is responsible for verifying the identification of targets before engaging. He serves as gunner and, in rare cases, as BC when only two men are in the BFV. He is responsible for operator maintenance of the turret, and its weapons. The gunners for the platoon leader and platoon sergeant are often required to assist in navigation and operation of radios.
h. Driver. The driver drives the vehicle under the BC's control. He follows terrain-driving procedures and tries to select hull-down position. He also aids in detecting targets and observing rounds fired. He assists in navigation by monitoring odometer readings and observing terrain. The driver is primarily responsible for operator maintenance of vehicle automotive systems. (Other squad members help the driver as directed by the platoon leader or platoon sergeant).
i. Antiarmor Specialist. The antiamor specialist's primary weapon is the M16A2 rifle. He is also the designated gunner for the Dragon and AT4.
j. Grenadier. The grenadier's primary weapon is the M16A2 rifle equipped with the M203 grenade launcher.
k. Automatic Rifleman. The automatic rifleman's primary weapon is the M249 machine gun. The Bradley squad has three automatic rifleman.
l. Platoon Aidman. The platoon aidman helps the platoon sergeant direct aid and litter teams; he monitors the health and hygiene of the platoon. The platoon aidman—
(1) Treats casualties and assists in their evacuation under the control of the platoon sergeant.
(2) Aids the platoon leader or sergeant in field hygiene matters, and personally checks the health and physical condition of platoon members.
(3) Requests Class VIII (medical) supplies through the platoon sergeant.
(4) Provides technical expertise and supervision of the combat lifesavers.
(5) Carries out other tasks assigned by the platoon leader and platoon sergeant.
m. Platoon Radiotelephone Operator. The platoon RATELO must know the use and care of the radio to include waterproofing and presetting frequencies, the use of the SOI, and how to construct and erect field-expedient antennas.
n. Fire Support Team. The company has a fire support team attached from the DSFA battalion. This team provides each platoon with a two-soldier FO party—an FO and his RATELO.
(1) Forward Observer. The FO acts as the eyes of the FA and mortars. He works for the platoon leader. The FO's main responsibilities are to locate targets and to call for and adjust indirect fire support. The FO must be familiar with the terrain that the platoon is operating in and the tactical situation. He must know the mission, the concept, and the platoon's scheme of maneuver and priority of fires. The FO must—
(a) Inform the FIST headquarters of platoon activities and the fire support situation.
(b) Prepare and use situation maps, overlays, and terrain sketches.
(c) Call for and adjust fire support.
(d) Operate as a team with the RATELO.
(e) Select targets to support the platoon's mission based on the company OPORD, platoon leader's guidance, and an analysis of METT-T factors.
(f) Select OPs and movement routes to and from them.
(g) Maintain communications as prescribed by the FSO.
(h) Operate the digital message device.
(i) Maintain the six-digit grid coordinates of his location.
(2) Radiotelephone Operator. The RATELO's main duties are to set up, operate, and maintain the FO party's communication equipment. At times, he must also perform the duties of the FO for the platoon.
5. Platoon Communications. The BFV's communication system provides for control of mounted and dismounted operations. Figure 1-4 and Figure 1-5 depict the arrangement of communication equipment and radio net configuration within the platoon. As units update their communication system, they will have the single-channel ground/airborne radio system (SINCGARS) as show in Figure 1-5.
Figure 1-4. Communications Equipment.
Figure 1-5. Single-Channel Ground/Airborne Radio System.
6. Understrength Platoons and Squads.
a. Platoons and squads are usually not at full strength. However, the mission can still be accomplished. Understrength units must be organized with the following rules in mind—
(1) Key leadership positions must be filled. Always maintain a chain of command platoon leader, platoon sergeant, squad leaders, and assistant squad leaders.
(2) The most potent weapons should be manned first. It is important to take full advantage of available firepower. Before each mission, consider how to employ Dragons and automatic rifles. In most situations, the most potent weapons are the BFV onboard weapons (25-mm gun, TOW missiles, and 7.62-mm coaxial machine gun).
b. Platoon and squad members must be cross-trained. This ensures that more than one man is capable of serving as gunner, driver, and vehicle commander. This training pays off when personnel turnover is high and units are understrength.
c. In addition, the platoon must have an organization plan for when it does not have all four BFVs. If a BFV is disabled, its men and equipment must be cross-loaded. Two full squads cannot ride in one BFV. Each of the other BFVs will take some on. Usually, the squad leader from the disabled BFV rides with the platoon leader. This lets him follow the situation and get orders from the platoon leader.
d. The platoon leader's BFV also serves as the assembly point. Squad members assemble here if the rifle team dismounts. The platoon leader will assist the disabled vehicle. He looks at its location and condition. He then considers the tactical situation. He may decide to leave the driver and gunner with the disabled BFV. They secure it and over see the recovery and repair.
IDENTIFY MOVEMENT TECHNIQUES AND FORMATIONS USED
BY THE BFV PLATOON DURING MOUNTED OPERATIONS
1. General.
a. You have seen how the Bradley platoon is organized. The tempo of mobile warfare demands that mechanized infantry units spend a lot of time moving. This section will discuss concepts and formations used when the Bradley platoon is moving in mounted operations. You should understand that a platoon rarely moves alone. It often operates as part of a mechanized infantry company or as part of a company team with one or more tank platoons.
b. Formations aid in command and control. Their general shape is set primarily by considerations of METT-T. The distance between vehicles or men will vary according to the terrain being crossed. While on the move, each vehicle or person guards and searches a different sector to provide all-round security. Leaders direct movement by using arm-and-hand and flag signals. Radios should be used only as a backup means of communicating.
2. Mounted Techniques.
a. Squads.
(1) When mounted, the squads operate as one unit. Thus, it is not able to overwatch itself. The squad members must watch their sectors closely. This is critical. They must inform the Bradley commander of what they see. This is done by using the two-way combat vehicle crew (CVC) helmets. They relay messages from the other squad members.
(2) The Bradley commander must be aware of the limitations of the field of view of the driver and gunner. He must inform them of all factors, which have a direct effect on their functions. The driver cannot see the right bumper or any of the right side. When the situation permits, the Bradley commander stands in his hatch for better observation.
b. Platoon.
(1) Normally, the platoon moves as a unit. The platoon leader selects the platoon route, unit formations, and the distance between vehicles. The platoon sergeant maintains station on the platoon leader's vehicle. The other two vehicles orient on the platoon leader and platoon sergeant, respectively. The common term for this role is "wingman".
(2) At times, the platoon may move independently of the company. The platoon leader may then conduct movement by bounding the platoon vehicles from one position to another. He uses his and the platoon sergeant's vehicles to form the two pairs. Their wingmen will make up the second vehicle of each pair. The wingmen always move and orient on the leader.
3. Mounted Formation. There are four formations for mounted movement at platoon level. The use of these formations lets the platoon react well in most situations and conditions. If the need arises, formations can be modified. To react to enemy contact, or change formations on the move, drills are used. These drills are standard, and are very thoroughly trained. The four formations are—
a. Column.
b. Line.
c. Echelon.
d. Wedge.
(1) Column. The column formation is the one most often used for road marches. It is also used during limited visibility and to pass through defiles or thick woods. The platoon can deploy from the column to other formations rapidly. It can also maneuver the trail section, should the lead come into contact. Use of the column simplifies control and gives good security. In addition, it allows maximum firepower to the flanks. The column formation is shown in Figure 1-6.
Figure 1-6. Column Formation.
(2) Line. The line formation is used when assaulting a weakly defended objective, crossing open areas, leaving a woodline, or emerging from smoke. Use of the line lets the platoon cross an objective rapidly, with maximum fire to the front. However, it lacks the depth of the column and the wedge. The distance between elements will depend on the terrain. The line formation is shown in Figure 1-7.
Figure 1-7. Line Formation.
(3) Echelon. This formation gives the greatest fire to the front and to either the right or left flank. The platoon uses it to cover the exposed flank of a larger force. If one pair makes contact, the other can maneuver. The echelon is shown in Figure 1-8.
Figure 1-8. Echelon Formation
(4) Wedge. The wedge gives excellent firepower to the front, and good fire to each flank. The platoon leader can easily control all vehicles and deploy rapidly into other formations. The wedge is often used when the enemy situation is vague. The orientation of the pairs is left and right. The platoon leader and platoon sergeant control the other BFV (wingman) of their pair by directing it to follow to the outside. The other BFV orients its weapons toward the flanks. The wedge is shown in Figure 1-9.
Figure 1-9. Wedge Formation
4. Stop During Movement. There are two security formations for use when the platoon is not moving. They are the herringbone and the coil.
a. Herringbone. The herringbone is used to disperse the platoon when traveling in the column formation. It may be used during air attacks, or when the platoon must stop during movement. This formation lets the platoon move to covered and concealed positions off a road or from an open area. There, it can set up all-round security without detailed instructions being issued. The vehicles are repositioned as needed. If there is time, they take advantage of the best cover, concealment, and fields of fire. During limited visibility, or when the halt is more than temporary, rifle team members are chosen to dismount and establish security. The herringbone formation is shown in Figure 1-10.
Figure 1-10. Herringbone Formation.
b. Coil. The second formation used when the platoon is not moving is the coil. The coil gives all-round security and observation when the unit is stationary. It is useful in tactical refueling, resupply, and issuing platoon orders. Because the coil presents an easy target, it is not to be used for long periods in daylight. Security must be posted to include airguards and dismounted rifle teams. Vehicle turrets are manned. There are two methods to form a coil—
(1) The first method is used when there is limited visibility. The platoon leader forms the coil by leading his platoon in a circle. Then all of the vehicles stop, turn 90 degrees outward, and post security.
(2) In the second method, the coil is formed by the platoon leader's signaling, quickly moving his vehicle into position, and stopping. The other vehicles go straight to their assigned places (as stated in the platoon SOP). They seek cover and concealment, then post security. This technique is used during daylight, or whenever speed is essential. The coil formation is shown in Figure 1-11.
Figure 1-11. Coil Formation
5. Movement Techniques (Mounted)
a. Movement Techniques. A movement technique is the manner a platoon uses to traverse terrain. There are three movement techniques, traveling, traveling overwatch, and bounding overwatch. The selection of a movement technique is based on the likelihood of enemy contact and the need for speed. Factors to consider for each technique are control, dispersion, speed, and security (Figure 1-12). Movement techniques are not fixed formations. They refer to the distances between vehicles (mounted movement), soldiers, teams, and squads that vary based on mission, enemy, terrain, visibility, and any other factor that affects control.
Figure 1-12. Movement Techniques and Characteristics.
b. Mounted.
(1) Traveling. Traveling is used when contact with the enemy is not likely and speed is needed (Figure 1-13).
(2) Traveling Overwatch. Traveling overwatch is used when contact is possible. A platoon in traveling overwatch may move in a column, wedge, or echelon formation with turrets oriented into assigned sectors of responsibility (Figure 1-14). (As noted earlier, the platoon should move mounted in sections-one under the platoon leader's control the other controlled by the platoon sergeant).
Figure 1-13. Traveling |
Figure 1-14. Traveling Overwatch |
(3) Bounding Overwatch. Bounding overwatch is used when contact is expected. Platoons execute bounding overwatch in alternate or successive bounds (Figure 1-15). Platoons use alternate bounds when speed is important and when terrain is open. They use successive bounds to move deliberately or when terrain is restrictive.
Figure 1-15. Methods of Bounding Overwatch.
(a) When the platoon uses mounted bounding overwatch, one or two vehicles bound while the others overwatch from a stationary position (Figure 1-16). When the new position is reached, the bounding fire teams dismount for local security. If the new position is relatively open, the bounding section may not need dismounted personnel to secure the position. As soon as the position is secured, the bounding section covers the rest of the platoon as they move forward. The process is repeated for subsequent moves.
Figure 1-16. Bounding Overwatch.
(b) The vehicles in the overwatch should follow the platoon or company SOP for weapons-ready posture. For example, all BFVs might have their TOW launchers erected and self-tested with one of the BFVs designated to fire, and another ready to fire its 25-mm gun or 7.62-mm coaxial machine gun. Each gunner should be prepared for immediate engagement in accordance with the platoon leader's fire control and distribution plan. Designated gunners should have their thermal sights on. Those BFVs chosen to have the 25-mm gun ready should select the proper ammunition and rate of fire, and turn the range index knob to the estimated range of the most likely target. Those BFVs selected to have the 7.62-mm coaxial machine gun ready also turn their range control knob to the range of the most likely target. This arrangement ensures that the overwatch force can provide immediate and accurate fire support with the proper weapons and ammunition. This can be adjusted to fit the enemy situation, terrain, and availability of ammunition and missiles.
IDENTIFY MOVEMENT TECHNIQUES AND FORMATION USED
BY THE BFV PLATOON DURING DISMOUNTED OPERATIONS
1. General. This section will discuss the movement techniques and type of formations used by the BFV platoon in dismounted operations.
a. Fire Team Formations. The fire team formations describe the positioning of soldiers in relation to each other. Each formation has advantages and disadvantages. The leader must weigh these in light of his METT-T analysis (Figure 1-17)
Figure 1-17. Comparison of the Team Formations.
(1) Wedge. The wedge is the basic formation for the fire team. The interval between soldiers in the wedge formation is normally 10 meters. The wedge expands and contracts depending on the terrain. When rough terrain, poor visibility, or other factors make control of the wedge difficult, fire teams modify the wedge. The normal interval is reduced so that all team members can still see their team leaders and the team leaders can still see their squad leaders. The sides of the wedge can contract to the point where the wedge resembles a single file. When moving in less rugged terrain, where control is easier, soldiers expand or resume their original positions (Figure 1-18).
Figure 1-18. Fire Team Wedge.
(2) File. When the terrain precludes use of the wedge, fire teams use the file formation (Figure 1-19)
Figure 1-19. Fire Team File.
b. Squad Formations. Squad formations describe the relationships between fire teams in the squad. They include the squad column, squad line, and squad file. A comparison of the formations in Figure 1-20.
Figure 1-20. Comparison of Squad Formations.
(1) Squad Column. The squad column is the squad's main formation. It provides good dispersion laterally and in depth without sacrificing control, and it facilitates maneuver. The lead fire team is the base fire team. Squads can move in either a squad column or a modified squad column (Figure 1-21). Rough terrain, poor visibility, or other factors can require the squad to modify the squad column into a file for control purpose. As the terrain becomes less rugged and control becomes easier, the soldiers assume their original positions.
Figure 1-21. Squad Column with Fire Teams in Column.
(2) Squad Line. The squad line provides maximum firepower to the front (Figure 1-22). When a squad is acting as the base squad, the fire team on the right is the base fire team.
Figure 1-22. Squad Line.
(3) Squad File. When not traveling in a column or line, squads travel in file. The squad file has the same characteristics as the fire team file. If the squad leader wishes to increase his control over the formation, exert greater moral presence by leading from the front, and be immediately available to make key decisions, he will move forward to the first or second position. Additional control over the rear of the formation can be provided by moving a team leader to the last position. (Figure 1-23).
Figure 1-23. Squad File.
c. Platoon Formations. The platoon uses the column or line formation (Figures 1-24 and 1-25).
(1) Platoon Column. The platoon column is the primary movement formation. It provides good dispersion both laterally and in depth, and it simplifies control. This formation can deliver a limited volume of fire to the front and high volume to the flanks. The lead squad is the base squad.
(2) Platoon Line. It provides good lateral dispersion. In this formation, the platoon can deliver the greatest amount of fire to the front. The platoon leader designates the base squad. The transition from movement techniques to maneuver must be done quickly to attain the initiative.
Figure 1-24. Platoon Column.
Figure 1-25. Platoon Line.
3. Dismounted Techniques. The platoon normally remains mounted until forced to dismount. When it dismounts, it uses the following techniques.
a. Traveling. This technique is not used often when contact is not likely, because the platoon normally remains mounted (Figure 1-26). Sometimes the platoon has missions that require the dismount element to operate independent of the BFVs. The traveling technique is normal for trailing platoon dismounted elements in a company-dismounted formations. The element's formation is adjusted to fit the situation.
Figure 1-26. Traveling, Squads Dismounted.
b. Traveling Overwatch. The dismount element normally uses the column or wedge formation. The lead team tries to move at least 50 meters, but preferably 100 meters or more, in front of the rest of the element. The BFVs may be even farther to the rear or to a flank (Figure 1-27).
Figure 1-27. Traveling Overwatch, Squads Dismounted.
c. Bounding Overwatch. When contact is expected and the terrain does not permit mounted movement or when the dismount element is separated from the vehicles, the platoon bounds with the dismount element deployed (Figure 1-28).
Figure 1-28. Bounding Overwatch, Squads Dismounted.
4. Movement During Limited Visibility Conditions. At night or when visibility is poor, a platoon must be able to function the same as during the day. It must be able to control, navigate, maintain security, and move at night or during limited visibility.
a. Control. When visibility is poor, the following methods aid in control:
(1) The platoon uses vehicle night vision devices when mounted and selected personnel use night vision devices when dismounted.
(2) Leaders move closer to the front.
(4) The platoon uses small strips of luminous tape or chemical lights on the rear of vehicles or helmets to ensure the vehicle or soldier behind them can maintain visual contact.
(5) Leaders reduce the interval between vehicles, soldiers, and squads to make sure they can see each other.
(6) During dismounted movement, leaders conduct headcount at regular intervals and after each halt to ensure personnel accountability.
b. Navigation. To assist in navigation during limited visibility, leader use—
(1) Terrain association (general direction of travel coupled with recognition of prominent map and ground features).
(2) Dead reckoning (compass direction and specific distances or legs). At the end of each leg, leaders should verify their location.
(3) Resection.
(4) Movement routes that parallel identifiable terrain features.
(5) Guides to marked routes.
(6) GSRs to vector platoons to the proper location.
(7) Position-location devices.
(8) Thermal sights.
c. Security. For stealth and security in night moves, squads and platoons—
(1) Use radio-listening silence.
(2) Use terrain to avoid detection by enemy surveillance or night vision devices.
(3) Make frequent listening halts during dismounted movement.
(4) Mask the sounds of movement with artillery fires.
d. Individual Movement Techniques. Individual movement techniques include the high and low crawl and short rushes (three to five seconds) from one covered position to another. (See FM 21-75).
5. Other Movement Situations. Movement with armored vehicles: Armored and mechanized forces normally work together in combat operations. This section discusses tactics and techniques used by mechanized infantry platoons working with armor. A company team consists of mechanized infantry platoons and tank platoons. Each platoon has unique characteristics and should be employed to complement the others and be prepared to provide mutual support. A BFV platoon can take advantage of the tanks' firepower, armor protection, and mobility in the offense and the tanks range finder to move into positions in the defense. Tanks can take advantage of the BFV platoons ability to provide close-in protection from dismounted attacks in the defense.
a. Movement with Tanks. When terrain, visibility, and the enemy situation permit mounted movement, tanks normally lead followed or overwatched by the BFVs.
(1) Tanks in the Lead. Tanks normally lead a movement formation because of their survivability, firepower, and shock effect. The BFV platoon normally moves 200 to 400 meters behind the tanks in order to support them and at the same time avoid fires directed at the tanks (Figure 1-29).
Figure 1-29. Tanks Leading.
(a) When the company team uses traveling or traveling overwatch movement techniques, the commander stipulates the sequence and locations for movement and the distance between the tanks and BFVs. BFVs must be close enough to protect the flanks and rear of the tanks.
(b) When the company team used bounding overwatch, a tank platoon usually serves as the bounding element successively overwatched by the BFVs and, in some cases, by other tanks. Because tank crews have difficulty seeing behind them, one of the BFV platoon's primary jobs is to protect the tanks' rear and flanks from enemy infantry attack. The platoon must be alert for enemy antiarmor positions. Since ATGM fires are usually characterized by a trail of smoke from the launch site, the BFV commanders should suppress the enemy antiarmor weapon and send a warning over the radio.
b. Dismounted Element Leading Tanks. The mounted platoon seldom leads tanks. Usually, the dismounted element of the platoon leads to breach obstacles, to move through restrictive terrain, to clear defiles, or to act as a guide when visibility is limited ( Figure 1-30).
Figure 1-30. Dismounted Element Leading Tanks.
(1) When an obstacle hinders mounted movement, the dismount element clears or breaches it or finds a bypass. It approaches the obstacle using bounding overwatch, while BFVs are positioned to support. Also, when visibility interferes with mounted movement, the dismount element leads, overwatched by the BFVs and tanks.
(2) Fire control is difficult while moving during limited visibility, but it is facilitated by using the wingman concept. It can be done only if the platoon has practiced the SOP. Indirect-fire illumination should not be relied on, because it is slow and not as effective in smoke, fog, snow, dust, or heavy rain. Additionally, heavy rain or cold fog reduces thermal sight range capability. Although the thermal sight allows the BFV and tanks to acquire a target at great distances during reduced visibility, it does not provide a clear enough sight picture for vehicle identification. Platoons using thermal sights for long distances must establish positive identification and check-fire procedures to preclude destroying friendly vehicles or personnel.
c. Movement by Water. Platoons avoid crossing water obstacle when possible. Leaders should identify weak or nonswimmers when crossing water in BFVs and pair them with a good swimmer in their crew/squad.
6. Communication with Tanks.Before an operation, mechanized infantry and tank leaders must coordinate communications means and signals. This includes the use of radios, phones, and visual signals (such as arm-and-hand, panel, lights, flags, and pyrotechnical). The BFV's communication system provides for control of mounted and dismounted operations. Tanks have the same system.
a. BFVs communicating with Tanks.As communications systems are updated, platoons will have single channel ground/airborne radio system (SINCGARS). This allows secure communication between tanks, BFVs and the dismount element.
b. Dismounted Infantry Communicating with Tanks. Most tanks, with the exception of the M1, have an external phone on the rear fender for dismounted infantrymen to use. On the M1, the infantryman can rum communication wire to the tank crew through the turret. This wire is hooked into the tank's communication system. Leaders must be confident that tanks and dismounted infantry can move, shoot, and communicate without the risk of fratricide and confusion.
7. Actions at Danger Areas. The infantry platoon normally moves mounted to take full advantage of the firepower, speed, and protection of the BFVs. When moving through forested areas, towns, or where there is a possibility of an ambush, the platoon leads with the dismounted infantry to protect against enemy short-range ATGM. Defiles, bends in roads, or river crossing sites are likely enemy locations.
a. Rifle squads or engineers when available are deployed to breach obstacles, to find a route around impassable terrain, and to provide security. Because the BFV is vulnerable to short-range ATGM, suspected vehicle ambush areas must be treated with caution. If available, fire from tank main guns can be used to force through hastily constructed obstacles after the obstacles have been secured by infantry. This technique keeps the momentum up and does not require that the force wait for engineers to be brought forward.
b. One of the major tasks of the lead element is protection of the company or company team from surprise attack. The lead platoon must clear each possible ambush site unless instructed otherwise.
c. When a danger area is encountered that makes an enemy ambush possible, the company team commander makes the determination as to how much risk he will take. If speed is critical, he may choose to take a greater risk and not dismount, or he may choose to stay mounted but move forward only a small element. If he has reason to believe that an ambush is likely, then he will probably dismount the infantry. He may also reconnoiter by fire into the likely enemy position
DANGER
The BFV should never fire armor-piercing ammunition while dismounted friendly soldiers are within a gun arc of 10 degrees and within 400 meters, unless overhead cover is available for dismounted soldiers. If rounds are fired over the dismounted element, dismounted soldiers could be killed or injured by the discarding sabot or plastic that fall off rounds fired from the BFVs or tanks. (Tank safety arc is 70 degrees at 1,000 meters).
d. In each situation where dismounted infantry lead BFVs, and tanks, the company team commander decides whether tanks or BFVs move directly behind the dismount element. Tanks are normally preferred, because their large main guns and machine guns can deliver immediate, devastating fire, and they have much better armor protection than the BFV. Regardless of whether tanks or BFVs are the overwatch force, they must be ready, once contact is made, to suppress enemy weapons that endanger the dismounted infantry.
e. A defile is a narrow passage that constricts the movement of soldiers. It is an ideal ambush site. If a defile is encountered that forces the company team to move in single vehicle file for a significant distance, the commander might choose to lead with dismount infantry (Figure 1-31). Common defiles for mechanized platoons are roads or trails across streams or through swamps and heavy forests. When clearing a defile, the dismount element clears each side far enough from the choke point to make sure that there are no ambushes. It also checks the surface for evidence of mines. Because contact should be expected at defiles, the leading squad should use bounding overwatch.
f. If a platoon is given the task of clearing a road as part of a movement to contact, it must use caution. The enemy often employs antiarmor weapons on a bend in the road so that he can ambush lead vehicles without trailing vehicles overwatching. A bend in the road and its shoulder may also be minded; therefore, squads must carefully check bends in roads.
Figure 1-31. Clearing A Defile.
g. A bridge must be considered an obstacle or possible ambush site and approached as such. It must be cleared before it is crossed.
h. Infantrymen normally dismount to lead through urban areas ( Figure 1-32). Vehicle movement through a village or town is generally limited to streets and infantrymen must clear buildings along the way. The infantrymen move down a street with squads staggered along the street sides. The infantrymen move alongside the buildings, clearing each building as they advance. As it moves, each platoon makes sure there are no enemy positions left in the buildings on its side of the street. Each team looks for enemy in the upper floors of the buildings on the other side of the street. Tanks or BFVs provide overwatch. A single platoon should be responsible for clearing a single street to enhance command and control.
Figure 1-32. Dismount Element Leading.
8. Conclusion. This concludes lesson 1. During this lesson you were shown the organization, movement techniques, and formations used by the Bradley platoon both mounted and dismounted. You were also shown how BFV platoons move and communicate with tanks.
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