Infantry Drills

3-61: Battle Positions



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3-61. A battle position is a defensive location oriented on a likely enemy avenue of approach. Units as large as battalion task forces and as small as squads or sections use battle positions. They may occupy the topographical crest of a hill, a forward slope, a reverse slope, or a combination of all areas. The leader selects his positions based on terrain, enemy capabilities, and friendly capabilities. A leader can assign all or some subordinates battle positions within the area of operation. The types of battle positions are—

  • Primary.
  • Alternate.
  • Supplementary.
  • Subsequent.
  • Strongpoint.

Next: 3-62: Primary Position

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