Previous: 2-34: Suppress
2-35. The platoon leader conducts maneuver to avoid enemy strengths and create opportunities that increase the effects of combat power. Surprise is achieved by making unexpected maneuvers, rapidly changing the tempo of ongoing operations, avoiding observation, and using deceptive techniques and procedures. The platoon leader seeks to overwhelm the enemy with one or more unexpected actions before it has time to react in an organized fashion. This occurs when the attacking force is able to engage the defending enemy force from positions of advantage with respect to the enemy, such as engaging from
a flanking position.
2-36. The platoon leader maneuvers the platoon to close with and destroy the enemy by close combat and shock effect. Close combat is direct-fire and movement warfare carried out on land and supported by direct-, indirect-, and air-delivered fires. (Refer to ADRP 3-0 for more information.) Close combat defeats or destroys enemy forces, or seizes and retains ground.
2-37. The movement and maneuver warfighting function includes the following tasks:
- Deploy.
- Move.
- Maneuver.
- Employ direct fires.
- Occupy an area.
- Conduct mobility and countermobility operations.
- Conduct reconnaissance and surveillance.
- Employ battlefield obscuration.
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Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad