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Previous: 3-18: Forms of Defensive Maneuver

3-19. Defense in-depth reduces the risk of the attacking enemy quickly penetrating the defense. The enemy is unable to exploit a penetration because of additional defensive positions employed in-depth. (See figure 3-1.) The in-depth defense provides more space and time to defeat the enemy attack.

3-20. The Infantry platoon uses a defense in-depth when—

• The mission allows the Infantry platoon to fight throughout the depth of the areas of operations.
• The terrain does not favor a defense well forward, and better defensible terrain is available deeper in the areas of operations.
• Sufficient depth is available in the areas operations.
• Cover and concealment forward in the areas of operations is limited.
• Weapons of mass destruction may be used.

Next: 3-21: Forward Defense

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