Previous: 1-111: Survivability
1-112. In accomplishing its assigned missions, the platoon employs close combat forces and sustainment assets within its capabilities. The platoon’s effectiveness depends on the synergy of its subordinate elements, to include its BFVs and the rifle squads. To employ the platoon effectively, the platoon leader capitalizes on its strengths. The BFV-equipped mechanized Infantry platoon can—
- Assault enemy positions.
- Assault with small arms and indirect fires to deliver rifle squads to tactical positions of advantage.
- Use 25-mm cannon and 7.62-mm machine gun fire to effectively suppress or destroy the enemy’s Infantry.
- Block dismounted avenues of approach.
- Seize and retain key and decisive terrain.
- Clear danger areas and prepare positions for mounted elements.
- Conduct mounted or dismounted patrols and operations in support of security operations.
- Develop the situation through reconnaissance and close combat.
- Establish strong points to deny the enemy important terrain or flank positions.
- Infiltrate enemy positions.
- Overwatch and secure tactical obstacles.
- Repel enemy attacks through close combat.
- Participate in air assault operations.
- Destroy light armor vehicles using direct fire from the BFV.
- Employ 25-mm cannon fire to fix, suppress, or disrupt the movement of fighting vehicles and antiarmor systems up to 2500 meters.
- Use TOW fires to destroy tanks and fighting vehicles out to 3750 meters.
- Use Javelin fires to destroy tanks and fighting vehicles out to 2000 meters.
- Operate in a CBRN environment.
- Conduct stability tasks.
- Participate in Defense Support of Civil Authorities operations.
Next: 1-113: Limitations
Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad