The primary mission of the Infantry rifle platoon and squad is to close with the enemy—party identified as hostile against which the use of force is authorized (ADP 3-0)—by means of fire and movement to destroy, capture, or repel an assault by fire, close combat, and counterattack. Fire and movement is the concept of applying fires from all sources to suppress, neutralize, or destroy the enemy, and the tactical movement of combat forces in relation to the enemy (as components of maneuver, applicable at all echelons). At the squad level, fire and maneuver entails a team placing suppressive fire on the enemy as another team moves against or around the enemy (FM 3-96). To succeed, Infantry rifle platoons and squads are aggressive, physically fit, disciplined, and well-trained. The inherent strategic mobility of Infantry units dictates a need to be prepared for rapid deployment in response to situations in different operational environments. This chapter focuses on the Infantry rifle platoon and squads’ role as well as the exercise of command and control within the platoon and squad.
- Section 1 – Role of the Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad
- Section 2 – The Exercise of Command and Control
Next Page : Section 1 – Role of the Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad