Infantry Drills

5-86: Coordination



Previous: 5-84: Planning

5-86. The incoming and outgoing unit leaders meet to exchange tactical information, conduct a joint reconnaissance of the area, and complete other required coordination. The two leaders carefully address passage of command and jointly develop contingency actions to deal with enemy contact during the relief. This process usually includes coordination of the following information:

  • Location of vehicle and individual fighting positions (to include hide, alternate, and supplementary positions). Leaders should verify fighting positions both by conventional map and using the latest Mission Command Systems available.
  • The enemy situation.
  • The outgoing unit’s tactical plan, including graphics, company and platoon fire plans, and individual vehicles’ area of operations sketches.
  • Direct and indirect fire support coordination, including indirect fire plans and time of relief for supporting artillery and mortar units.
  • Types of weapons systems being replaced.
  • Time, sequence, and method of relief.
  • Location and disposition of obstacles, and time when the leaders will transfer responsibility.
  • Supplies and equipment to be transferred.
  • Movement control, route priority, and placement of guides.
  • Command and signal information.

Note. Units conduct relief on the radio nets of the outgoing unit to facilitate control during the relief.

  • Maintenance and logistical support for disabled vehicles.
  • Visibility considerations.

Next: 5-87: Conducting the Relief

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