Basics
What is an ambush?
An attack by fire or other destructive weapons from a concealed location while the enemy is moving or comes to a temporary halt
What are the two types of ambushes based on the amount of planning time?
Deliberate and hasty
What is a linear ambush?
Elements act in a straight line parallel to the enemy's route
What does EPW stand for?
Enemy prisoner of war
Your patrol unexpectedly sees an enemy unit. Is this more likely to be a deliberate or hasty ambush?
Hasty
What is the general purpose of an ambush?
To stop, block, or destroy enemy forces by using the element of surprise
Which type of ambush occurs when a unit unexpectedly sees the enemy?
Hasty
What is a kill zone?
The area where the enemy will be targeted
What does LOA stand for?
Limit of advance
A unit wants to disrupt an enemy rather than completely destroy it. What type of ambush would this be?
Harassing
Describe the difference between a point and an area ambush.
A point ambush occurs at a single kill zone along the enemy's route, while an area occurs at several.
When does a deliberate ambush occur?
When you have sufficient time to conduct leaders' reconnaissance and place all elements
What are the two types of ambush formations discussed in the presentation?
Linear and L-shaped
What does ORP stand for?
Objective rally point
Why is concealment important when establishing an ambush?
It helps prevent the enemy from detecting the ambush
What is the key element to a successful ambush?
Surprise
What is the main goal of a destruction ambush?
The goal is to completely destroy the enemy.
Where would assault be located during an L-shaped ambush?
Parallel to the enemy's route
What is the difference between cover and concealment?
Cover protects you from enemy fire, while concealment hides you from the enemy's observation.
Why are security elements are positioned around the main ambush force?
To provide security for the flanks/rear
What kinds of fire and weapons can be used in an ambush?
Direct fire, indirect fire, command-detonated mines, and supporting non-lethal effects, etc.
In a harassing ambush, do assault elements enter the kill zone?
No
Where would support by fire be located in an L-shaped ambush?
On a perpendicular line adjacent to the assaulting line
The element responsible for providing medical assistance and handling casualties
Your patrol unexpectedly detects an enemy unit. What type of ambush should be used, and what are the first three actions the platoon takes?
A hasty ambush. The platoon halts and remains motionless; the PL gives the signal for a hasty ambush, and the PL designates the location and extent of the kill zone.