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Previous: Section III: Functions of Sustainment

7-33. The Infantry platoon leader develops his sustainment plan by determining exactly what he has on hand to accurately estimate his support requirements. It is critical for the company to know what the platoon has on hand for designated critical supplies. This process is important not only in confirming the validity of the sustainment plan but also in ensuring the platoon’s support requests are submitted as early as possible. The platoon leader can formulate his sustainment execution plan and submit support requests based on the results of his maneuver plan.

7-34. The sustainment plan should provide answers to operational questions such as the following:

• Types of support. Based on the nature of the operation and specific tactical factors, what types of support will the platoon need?
• Quantities. In what quantities will this support be required?
  • Will emergency resupply (Class III and V) be required during the battle?
  • Does this operation require prestocked supplies?
• Threat. What are the composition, disposition, and capabilities of the expected enemy threat? How will these affect sustainment plan during execution?
  • Where and when will the expected contact occur?
  • What are the platoon’s expected casualties and vehicle losses based on the nature and location of expected contact?
  • What impact will the enemy’s special weapons capabilities (such as CBRN) have on the battle and on expected sustainment requirements?
  • How many EPWs are expected, and where?
• Terrain and weather. How will terrain and weather affect sustainment plan during the battle?
  • What ground will provide the best security for maintenance and CCPs?
  • What are the platoon’s vehicle and casualty evacuation routes?
  • What are the company’s dirty routes for evacuating contaminated personnel, vehicles, and equipment?
• Time and location. When and where will the platoon need sustainment?
  • Based on the nature and location of expected contact, what are the best sites for the CCP?
  • Where will the EPW collection points be located?
• Requirements. What are the support requirements, by element and type of support?
  • Which section has priority for emergency Class III resupply?
  • Which section or squad has priority for emergency Class V resupply?
• Risk. Will lulls in the battle permit support elements to conduct resupply operations in relative safety?
• Resupply techniques. Based on information developed during the sustainment planning process, which resupply technique should the platoon use?

Next: 7-35: Supply and Field Services

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