1-1. Troop movement is the movement of Soldiers and units from one place to another by any available means (FM 3-90). The ability of commanders to posture friendly forces in the right starting location to conduct operations depends on their ability to move their forces. The essence of battlefield agility is the capability to conduct rapid and orderly troop movement to concentrate combat power at decisive points and times. Units can expect the enemy to attempt to deny freedom of movement throughout their assigned area. The two types of troop movement are nontactical and tactical movement.
1-2. Nontactical movement is a movement in which troops and vehicles are arranged to expedite their movement and conserve time and energy when no enemy ground interference is anticipated (FM 3-90). Units only conduct nontactical movements in secure areas. Examples of nontactical movements include rail and highway movement in the continental United States. Once units deploy into a theater of operations, they do not normally conduct nontactical movements.
1-3. A tactical movement is a movement in which troops and vehicles are arranged to protect combat forces during movement when a threat of enemy interference is possible (FM 3-90). Units maintain security against enemy attacks from both the air and ground and prepare to take immediate action against enemy ambushes, although they do not expect contact with significant enemy ground forces. During movement, the moving force employs security measures, even when contact with enemy ground forces is not expected. During a tactical movement, units are always prepared to take immediate action. There are three methods of a tactical movements that units of all types can conduct: tactical road march, approach march, and forced march.
1-4. There are five methods of troop movements that units can execute. Generally, units can execute these methods in combination. For example, a unit can initially execute a mounted movement and then transition to a dismounted movement. Additionally, each method can be applied to nontactical or tactical movement. These methods are—
- Dismounted movement (foot marches).
- Mounted movement (road marches).
- Air movement.
- Rail movement.
- Water movement.
Next Page : Section 2 – Dismounted Movement (Foot Marches)