Previous: Section I: Operational Overview
1-2. The operational environment for an Infantry platoon and squad is a composite of conditions, circumstances, and influences affecting the employment of that platoon or squad. It has a bearing on decisions made by the platoon leader and squad leader. As with Army leaders at all levels, platoon leaders and squad leaders use operational variables to analyze and understand the specific operational environment in which they conduct operations. They use mission variables to focus on specific elements of an operational environment during mission analysis. The operational environment for each operation is different and usually evolves as an operation progresses. It is critical that each platoon leader and squad leader understands his specific operational environment in order to plan, prepare, execute, and assess operations.
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Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad