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H-87. This method requires increased physical exertion by one or more Soldiers using hand tools such as axes, saws, crowbars, hooligan’s tools, or sledgehammers to gain access. Although most Soldiers are familiar with these tools, practice on various techniques increases speed and effectiveness. The mechanical reduction is not the preferred primary method because it may be time-consuming and defeat the element of surprise. However, the ROE and situation may require the use of these tools, so Soldiers should be proficient in their use.
H-88. Typically, the order of movement for a mechanical breach is the initial assault team, followed by the breach man or element. At the breach point, the assault team leader brings the breach team forward while the assault team provides local security. After the reduction is conducted, the breach team moves aside and provides local security as the assault team enters the breach. (Refer to ATTP 3-06.11 for more information.)
H-89. When developing an urban operations mechanical breach kit SOP, Infantry units must consider their mission essential task list (METL) and unit tactical SOPs.
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Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad