3-49. The term squad movement formation refers to the relative locations of the fire teams. Squad formations include the squad column, the squad line, and squad file. Table 3-3 compares squad formations.
Table 3-3. Comparison of squad formations
3-50. Squad leaders adjust their squad’s formation as necessary while moving, primarily through the three movement techniques (see paragraphs 3-75 to 3-96). Squad leaders exercise command and control primarily through the two team leaders and move in the formation where they can best achieve this. Squad leaders are responsible for 360-degree security, for ensuring the team’s sectors of fire are mutually supporting, and for being able to rapidly transition the squad upon contact.
3-51. Squad leaders designate one of the fire teams as the base fire team. Squad leaders control the squad’s speed and direction of movement through the base fire team while the other team and attachments cue their movement off the base fire team. This concept applies when not in contact and when in contact with the enemy.
3-52. Weapons from the weapons squad (a medium machine gun or a Javelin) (or M3 Multi-role, Antiarmor, Antipersonnel Weapon System [known as MAAWS]) may be attached to the squad for movement or throughout the operation. These high value assets need to be positioned so they are protected and can be quickly brought into the engagement when required. Ideally, these weapons should be positioned so they are between the two fire teams.
Squad Column
3-53. The squad column is the squad’s main formation for movement unless preparing for an assault—a short and violent well-ordered attack against a local objective (FM 3-90). (See figure 3-4.) It provides good dispersion both laterally and in-depth without sacrificing control. It also facilitates maneuver. The lead fire team is the base fire team. Squads can move in either a column wedge (squad column-team wedge) or a modified column wedge. A modified column wedge occurs when rough terrain, poor visibility, and other factors require the squad to modify the wedge into a file for control purposes. As the terrain becomes less rugged and control becomes easier, the Soldiers resume their original positions.
Figure 3-4. Squad column, fire teams in wedge
Squad Line
3-54. The squad line provides maximum firepower to the front and is used to assault or as a pre-assault formation. (See figure 3-5 on page 3-16.) To execute the squad line, the squad leader designates one of the teams as the base team. The other team cues its movement off the base team. This applies when the squad is in close combat as well. From this formation, the squad leader can employ any of the three movement techniques or conduct fire and movement.
Figure 3-5. Squad line
Squad File
3-55. The squad file has the same characteristics as the fire team file. (See figure 3-6.) In the event the terrain is severely restrictive or extremely close, teams within the squad file also may be in file. This disposition is not optimal for enemy contact but provides squad leaders with maximum control. They increase control over the formation by moving forward to the second or third position. Moving forward enables them to exert greater morale presence by leading from the front, and to be immediately available to make vital decisions. Moving a team leader to the last position can provide additional control over the rear of the formation.
Figure 3-6. Squad file
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