Previous: 6-91: Assault Element
6-93. The support element suppresses the enemy on the objective using direct and indirect fires. The support element is a shaping effort setting conditions for mission’s main effort. This element must be capable of supporting the assault element. The support force can be divided up into two or more elements if required.
6-94. The support element is organized to address a threat of enemy interference with the assault elements. The support force suppresses, fixes, or destroys elements on the objective. The support force’s primary responsibility is to suppress enemy to prevent reposition against main effort. The support force—
- Initiates fires and gains fire superiority with crew-served weapons and indirect fires.
- Controls rates and distribution of fires.
- Shifts/ceases fire on signal.
- Supports the withdrawal of the assault element.
Next: 6-95: Security Element
Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad