Previous: G-59: Offense
G-60. During planning, the leader considers the enemy armor threat, then positions antiarmor weapons accordingly to cover armor avenues of approach. He also considers the fields of fire, tracking time, and minimum engagement distance of each weapon. The section leader or squad leader selects a primary position and sector of fire for each antiarmor weapon. He also picks alternate and supplementary positions for them. Each position should allow flank fire and have cover and concealment. The leader should integrate the ITAS into his limited visibility security and observation plan. The squad leader selects the fighting position and assigns the sector of fire. Considering the fundamentals of antiarmor employment will improve the crew’s survivability greatly. ITAS crews must coordinate with adjacent units to ensure security. The TOW’s 3750-meter maximum range makes it difficult for the enemy to engage the crew with direct fire, which forces the enemy to deploy earlier than intended. The gunner prepares a range card for his primary position. If time permits, he also prepares them for his alternate and supplementary positions. (See table G-10, page G-34.)
G-61. Reserve forces armed with SLM may be employed to assist counterattacks to regain essential positions. They also are used to block enemy penetrations, to meet unexpected enemy thrusts, and to provide support by fire to endangered friendly units during disengagements and withdrawals. In the event defensive positions are in danger of being overrun by enemy armored vehicles, SLM may be used against armored vehicles and lightly armored vehicles posing an immediate threat, including light tanks. The maximum range provides leaders with greater flexibility in positioning each round and provides a means of achieving overlapping sectors of fire for increased survivability.
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Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad