Infantry Drills

5-43: General Azimuth Method



Previous: 5-42: Terrain Association

5-43. For this method, the leader selects linear terrain features; then while maintaining map orientation and a general azimuth, he guides on the terrain feature. An advantage the general azimuth method has is it speeds movement, avoids fatigue, and often simplifies navigation because the unit follows the terrain feature. The disadvantage is it usually puts the unit on a natural line of drift. This method should end like terrain association, with the unit reaching a catching feature or a navigational attack point, then switching to point navigation.

Next: 5-44: Point Navigation

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