formation
Only used when:
- Unit has security or combat elements.
Pros:
- Allows unit to change to another formation quickly and easily.
- Facilitates rapid movement while still providing all around security.
- Maintains control more easily than a line formation.
Cons:
- Cannot be used when unit sonly have three subordinate maneuver elements.
- Requires sufficient maneuver space or multiple routes for dispersion.
- Possibility exists of enemy units massing on one element at a time.
- Friendly forces can mask other element's direct fires.
Box formation
Elements move abreast of each other.
Line formation
Positively identify your target, be aware of what is around and behind the target
Rule 5
Used when:
- Unit does not anticipate early contact
- Objective is distant
- Speed and control are critical
Pros:
- Best formation t move quickly
- Makes enemy contact with a small part of the total force while facilitating control and allows the unit to quickly mass forces.
- Easy to transition to other formations
- Works in restricted terrain
Cons:
- Units can only immediately apply the majority of the column's firepower on the column's flanks.
- Affects movement and terrain management
- Could accidentally pass by enemies without seeing them.
- Could run into an enemy force set up to ambush them.
Column Formation
One element leading, one element positioned on each flank, and remaining elements to the rear.
Diamond Formation
Keep your weapon on SAFE until you are ready to fire (unless directed otherwise)
Rule #3
Used when:
- Assaulting an objective because it concentrates firepower to the front in the direction of movement.
Pros:
- Facilitates speed and shock in closing with an enemy force.
- Allows the coverage of wide frontages.
- Facilitates the occupation of attack by fire or support by fire positions.
Cons:
- Less flexibility to maneuver than other formations
- Linear deployment allows a unit deployed on line to bring only limited firepower to bear on either flank.
- Provides limited or no reserve.
- Limits overwatch forces.
- Limits control of a unit using in restricted terrain or under conditions of limited visibility.
Line formation
Two elements are abreast and one or more elements trailing.
Vee formation
Keep your finger off the trigger until sights are on target and you are ready to fire
Rule #4
Used for:
- Focused firepower forward and to the flank of the echelon direction.
Pros:
- Facilitates control in open terrain.
- Allows concentration of unit's firepower forward and to the flank in the direction of the echelon.
- Allows forces not in contact to maneuver against known enemy forces
Cons:
- Lacks security and firepower on the opposite side of the echelon.
Echelon Formation
Elements arranged in a box or square, or two elements up and two elements back.
Box formation
Treat all weapons as loaded
Rule #1
Used when:
- Attacking an enemy appearing to the front and flanks.
Pros:
- Provides maximum firepower and allows units to use a large portion of their firepower on the flanks.
- Allows rapid crossing of open terrain when enemy contact is not expected.
- Facilities control.
- Allows for rapid changes in direction of movement.
- Allows the rapid change of movement to other formations
Cons:
- Requires sufficient space or multiple routes for dispersion laterally and in depth.
- Lacks ease of control in restricted terrain or poor visibility.
Wedge Formation
Elements are arranged on an angle to the left or right of the direction of attack.
Echelon format
Never point a weapon at anything you do not intend to shoot
Rule #2
Never engage in horseplay while handling weapons
Rule #6