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Previous: 2-288: Protection

2-289. Even in fluid situations, attacks are best organized and coordinated in AA. If the leader decides rapid action is essential to retain a tactical advantage, he may opt not to use an AA. Detailed advance planning, combined with digital communications, SOP, and battle drills, may reduce negative impacts of such a decision.

2-290. Unless already in an AA, the attacking unit moves into one during the preparation phase. The unit moves with as much secrecy as possible, normally at night and along routes preventing or degrading the enemy’s capabilities to visually observe or otherwise detect the movement. It avoids congesting its AA and occupies it minimal possible time. While in the AA, each unit is responsible for its own protection activities, such as local security.

2-291. The attacking unit should continue its TLP and priorities of work to the extent the situation and mission allow before moving to attack positions. These preparations include but are not necessarily limited to:

• Protecting the force.
• Conducting task organization.
• Performing reconnaissance.
• Refining the plan.
• Briefing the troops.
• Conducting rehearsals, to include test firing of weapons.
• Moving logistics and medical support forward.
• Promoting adequate rest for both leaders and Soldiers.
• Positioning the force for subsequent action.

2-292. As part of TLP, leaders at all levels should conduct a personal reconnaissance of the actual terrain when this will not compromise operational security or result in excessive risk to the unit leadership. Modern information systems can enable leaders to conduct a virtual reconnaissance when a physical reconnaissance is not practical. If a limited-visibility attack is planned, they also should reconnoiter the terrain at night.

Next: 2-293: Execute

Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad