Previous: 2-140: Bounding Element
2-141. When to dismount Infantry during maneuver is a critical decision for the platoon leader. He must balance the vulnerability of his mounted element, the speed and vulnerability of his dismounted infantrymen, and the effectiveness of the enemy’s fire. The platoon leader can use successive bounds with his dismounted infantrymen moving along covered and concealed routes to secure the next base-of-fire position.
2-142. Considerations for remaining mounted include:
- Open terrain.
- Good covered and concealed mounted routes.
- Ineffective antiarmor fires.
- Maneuver distance.
2-143. Considerations for dismounting include:
- Good covered and concealed terrain for Infantry.
- Effective antiarmor fire.
- Restricted terrain and obstacles for mounted movement.
2-144. Stryker units plan dismount points in a cover and concealed position out of the maximum effective range of the enemy weapon systems or audible range based on the last known enemy point of contact or suspected position.
Next: 2-145: Direct Fire Support
Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad