M? · AMENDMENT CERTIFICATE Proposals fo amendmentr or addition tso the manua shoull bde referred...

M? %

3.T.I

A g u i d e to the

Tac t i c a l A p p r e c i a t i o n

1987

J23-007 JAN 88

LAND WARFARE CENTRE

JUNIOR STAFF WING

3.T.1

1988

A GUIDE TO THE TACTICAL APPRECIATION

References: A. JSP(AS)102 (Second Edition) - Service Writing, 1984

B. MLW One 5.1 - Staff Duties in the Field, 1986

C. MLW One 5.2 - Aide-memoire, 1987

This manual replaces all previous handouts from the Junior Staff Wing on the subject of military appreciations.

The manual does not replace References A, B and C. Rather it binds together the philosophy and directs the students' attention to interpretation applicable to the appreciation at unit level.

The manual is published under the authority of the Chief Instructor of Junior Staff Wing for use by students attending the Junior Staff Course.

.123-008 I

JAN 87

AMENDMENT CERTIFICATE

Proposals for amendment or additions to the manual should be referred to the Module Master for Operations. Such proposals should include a draft of the suggested amendment.

Amendment List No Date Amendment Made By Date

J I 9-001 JAN 88

LAND WARPARK CENTRE

JUNIOR STAFF WING

MILITARY APPRECIATIONS

'At the beginning of 1944, Lieut-General Scoones was commanding 4 Corps on the Assam front. He was an informed, thoughtful soldier with a clear mind of the analytical type. My staff sometimes complained that he produced lengthy appreciations in which all factors and courses of action were conscientiously considered. I always pointed out that these appreciations could be re-read after the event and found uncannily accurate. A General whose appreciations can stand this test is not perhaps as rare as a politician whose speeches can equally bear re-reading, but such far sightedness is one of the foundations of real Generalship and is not too common a gift. Scoones had, too, a steadiness in crisis that was, for the battle he was to fight, an invaluable quality.'

Defeat into Victory Field Marshal Viscount Slim

JSP (AS) 102, Service Writing (Second Edition), 1984, Chapter 16

MLW One.5.1 - Staff Duties in the Field, 1986 Chapter 5

MLW One.5.2, Aide-Memoire, 1987 Chapter 10

INTRODUCTION ' 1. An estimate or appreciation of a situation is the military term defined as a 'logical process of reasoning by which a commander considers all the circumstances affecting the military situation and arrives at a decision as to the course of action to be taken in order to accomplish his mission' (Reference A, Chapter 16, paragraph 1601).

References: A.

B.

C.

-2-

2. The appreciation is essentially the process whereby operational information is collected and then used to produce outline plans. The references cover the appreciation as it relates to strategic, tactical, and administrative problems at formation level. While the basics remain the same ft»r all levels, there is a need for amplification of the unit level appreciation.

3. The purpose of this manual is to explain the steps inherent in an appreciation applicable to unit level tactical problems.

4. In considering this purpose students should be aware of the following:

a. This manual does not replace the References in any way but rather binds together the philosophy. Students are encouraged to read the References to gain a broader viewpoint.

b. There are no drills or simple keys to success. The appreciation is simply one person's thought process on paper. Each person's approach is going to vary particularly on points of detail and interpretation of what is of relative importance. This manual gives detailed explanation but DOES NOT encourage slavish adherance to every example*

5. This manual is set out in six parts as follows:

a. Part 1. (White). Part 1 encompasses some background reading by giving:

(1) some explanation of the logic inherent in the appreciation process,

(2) a reading list with explanatory notes, and

(3) some hints on the collection and layout of information.

b. Parts 2 to 5. (Part 2 Yellow, Part 3 Blue, Part 4 and 5 White). Parts 2 to 5 consist of a step by step guide to the factor analysis appropriate to offensive and defensive operations.

c* Part 6. (Green). Part 6 is a glossary of definitions and explanations of tactical terms.

6. Parts of this manual will appear repetitive. This is necessary because of the variation in needs among students. Some can understand the process from a logic diagram. Others prefer a general overview of each section of the process and what it does. Again others need a detailed factor guide. Most seem to gain from examples. One may therefore find the same information presented in four different ways.

7. The information given in this manual should be examined critically. The emphasis and many of the explanations are based on the author's viewpoint. The coverage is particularly geared to the JSC and is therefore not an exhaustive overview of the military appreciation process. The appreciation is a creative and a thinking exercise and student submissions should reflect this.

\

J19-002 JAN 87

PART 1

BACKGROUND TO THE APPRECIATION PROCESS

The Tactical Decision and Military Judgement

1. To make a tactical decision requires sound military judgement. Inherent in judgement is experience and analytical thought. These two aspects require perspective as both are clearly evident in every deduction in the appreciation process.

2. The analytical process is based on propositional thought (the logical connection of given truths or facts) and is the basis of the 'scientific' solution. It is characterized by a computer style binary operation where factors either fit a programme or blue print (of doctrine) or they do not. It is the process of logic which tends to lead to the 'black or white and no grey' solution.

3. The conceptual process is based on appositional thought (the placing of the complete problem next to solutions found in the past for similar problems) and operates on the basis of experience and is characterized by 'gut feeling'. It does not operate on the building blocks of data or propositions but rather on whole images drawn from what the brain has been exposed to or experienced. The expression of this thought process in any endeavour is often regarded as 'artistic'. Rommel called it 'fingerspitzenfuhl' (finger feeling).

4. Arms officers frequently operate in the conceptual mode more than the analytical and tend to arrive at a solution on first sight of the problem. This accords with unit training. The temptation is then to situate the appreciation.

5. Both the analytical and the conceptual process must be brought together. The conceptual provides inspiration or hypotheses for the analytical to test. Officers who do operate with a conceptual bias must exercise extreme self discipline to subject the 'gut feeling' to an objective analysis. Service officers frequently do not suffer from this distraction and therefore tend sometimes to produce better technical appreciations than their arms counter-parts. Their analysis, however, suffers from lack of detailed hypotheses and sound practical premises.

6. Both arms and service officers currently suffer from a lack of operational experience. It is only by the application of the discipline inherent in a sound appreciation that both the conceptual and analytical skills can be truly developed in peace-time.

Complete the following reading in the sequence given: f a. Study the remainder of Part 1, less Annexes A, B and C.

b. Scan the remainder of Part 1.

c. Study the description of the following terms and ensure that you understand them thoroughly:

(1) Aim. See Parts 2 and 3. See also Part 6 Glossary for the words:

(a) aim,

(b) clear, ) )

(c) defend, \

(d) delay, ) ) These words are listed

(e) deny, ) ) in the glossary under

(f) destroy, ) ) 'Task Verbs'. )

Cg) contain, j )

(h) secure, ) \

(i) support, and )

(j) limitation.

Key Terrain. See Part 6 Glossary. As indicates, the identification of this terrain is the key to the appreciation. Key Terrain is often on approaches but may not always be so. Where a piece of Key Terrain outside an approach is used in an enemy defence and therefore becomes an objective, a preliminary operation may be required.

(3) Objective. See Part 6 Glossary.

(4) Vital Ground. See Part 6 Glossary.

(5) Approach. See Part 6 Glossary.

(6) Time and Space. See Parts 2 and 3.

(7) Assessment of Tasks. See Parts 2 and 3.

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(8) Courses Open to Own and Enemy. See Parts 2 and 3. Note that courses should be fully stated. Enemy courses should be kept broad but are not simply re-statements of doctrine. From these descriptions effect is derived (see Part 6 Glossary) which in turn leads to own courses. Own courses are described in detail and include support aspects.

(9) Mission. When examining the statement of the mission in the outline plan be aware of the relationship between it, the original task and the aim. The limitations are not expressed in the mission because they are already included in courses and will be reflected in the outline plan. Often, but not always, the mission will be the fundamental task given by the superior commander. It may be that the fundamental task was to deny penetration in strength through an area and that the best method of achieving this (from courses open) is to attack the enemy. In such cases the wording of the mission may be quite different from the task or the aim even though it is achieving both. Thus the aim 'to def within bdry' becomes the mission 'to def HILL X', HILL X being the vital ground. Check the task verbs in the Glossary.

(10) Outline Plan. It is here that you apply what was taught for operation orders including precedence, double entry book-keeping, use of Annex A to Chapter 6 of Reference B for command status and its wording, and the statement of tasks. If a platoon is to capture objective one in phase two then that becomes its task '(Phase 2 : capture Objective 1)'. See paragraphs 2, 3 and 6 of Annex B to Part 1.

d. Now relate these terms to the flow diagram at Annex A, the 'Deductive Reasoning Process' explained below and the hints for appreciation writing. Relate this, in turn, to the example appreciations in Parts 2 and 3.

e. Study Part 3.

f. Read Part 6.

\ The Deductive Reasoning Process

8. Level of Thinking. The level' of the reasoning process sets the scene. A battalion commander in giving a task to a company commander will have considered the problem to platoon level to ensure that the company commander has the necessary resources. In like manner the brigade^ commander considers down to company level and tasks battalions, and the company commander considers section level and tasks platoons. The frame work for this 'two down' level of consideration is set by the context of 'two up' both in terms of own forces and enemy. Thus a

6-11

battalion commander examining a defence problem will analyse his problem to platoon level while at the same time being mindful of the brigade and divisional commander's aim and approaches to the battalion and brigade vital ground. While considering that a battalion or regiment of enemy will attack his position he will consider that regiment in a divisional setting being mindful of the normal allocation of divisional resources to that regiment.

9. Fact. A fact is a thing assumed as a basis for inference. It is assumed, therefore, that the data given in the texts, manuals and narratives to problems are facts upon which we may infer information not given.

10. Factors. A factor is a useful fact from which deductions can be drawn. This means that a fact which pertains to the achievement of the aim of an appreciation is a factor. thus in a set of references, a narrative and a map, we find many facts and we select the relevant ones and list them under the heading 'FACTORS' and sub-headings 'Relative Strengths', 'Ground', 'Assessment of Tasks', 'Time and Space' and 'Enemy Courses' and others that may seem relevant. The relationship between Aim, Factors, Own Courses and Outline Plan is shown in the flow diagram at Annex A to Part 1. Note that Own Courses and Outline Plan are not factors.

11. Deduction. A deduction is inference from general to particular. Thus given the factors that there are two LMGs and one RPG identified on Hill X causing delay to our advance, one can use the general information in MLW Three 2.2 -The Musorian Armed Forces 1980 under doctrine, organisations, and order of battle, and a map to deduce such things as:

a. it is possibly a platoon position;

b. there is a third squad which, by doctrine, in this phase of war, would be located in the vicinity of area Y;

c. there are two more RPG 7s;

d. there are probably some other heavier weapons such as HMGs or AT3s (the general idea and narrative would give clues here);

e. the platoon would be within range of at least the RAG; and

f. most important, what does all this mean to you? This leads to such deductions as:

(1) number of objectives,

(2) size of targets and therefore size of fire unit required,

(3) likely enemy DF tasks which you need then to avoid,

6-11

(4) the ratio of fire units to objectives and manoeuvre elements and therefore the requirements for the development of adequate combat power, and

(5) the emphasis to be given to your own resources such as employment of support section to destroy a bunker or use of air burst to destroy enemy in open pits.

Note that a deduction 'I must maintain momentum' is nonsense because it is a statement of principle. It is from this principle and its application to given facts that you deduce how you can achieve momentum in the particular scenario. For amplification of the 'so what' process see Part 6 Glossary.

12. Quantity of Deductions. What is needed from deductions is usable information. Thus at unit level you seek information which relates directly to how you deploy platoons, direct and indirect fire support, and any other assets under your command to achieve the aim. That is the reason for applying the 'so what' process; 'so what' relates to your level of reasoning and your aim. The deductions should be sufficiently developed so that they can be picked up in later sections of the appreciation (time and space, assessment of tasks, courses open). For example the air situation may lead to a general deduction that some precaution is needed. This is of little use unless adequate resources are identified (eg level of digging, air sentry per platoon or company area etc) so that these can in turn be listed under assessment of tasks.

13. Summary of Deductions. There are two ways of looking at summary of deductions: ,

a. At the end of a large unwieldly subject such as ground it is useful to summarize the main points as they inter-relate. It may also be useful to do the same between some major headings such as ground and enemy.

b. A tabular layout of an analysis of approaches summarizes in note form all the deductions in a host of perspectives and then gives the assessment of the approach on the same

. page.

Either way it is a useful tool to condense information in the context of the aim and its limitations.

Re-Appreciation

14. Note that on completion of the appreciation the situation could change. If you are involved in a long term task (eg defence or deliberate attack) it may be worthwhile to end the appreciation with either:

a. 'Re-appreciate at ' (time/date); or

b. 'Re-appreciate when '

1-6

Hints for Appreciation Writing

15. What is to follow is an idea of self organization for the task of writing an appreciation. This can be ignored, adopted in part and adapted, or used in its entirety. The point is that each person has his or her own approach to the gathering and use of operational information. This is offered as a guide to those who are still formulating their approach.

16. It is suggested that you have a note book and into this you write the headings of the appreciation and outline plan on separate pages. A loose leaf folder is useful for this as it allows the addition of pages. As you progress through your reading, the first concern' is deriving the aim. This and its limitations can be entered (in note form) into the note book as you read. Limitations can be placed straight into 'Assessment of Tasks and Time and Space' as applicable to remind you to consider them. As you read on through the problem you may find that you think 'I must remember to consider this when I get to that part of the appreciation'; note it down under the relevant heading straight away before you forget. This process continues through planning and conduct of your reconnaissance and during the appreciation itself. You may be formally writing up ground when a thought occurs to you concerning enemy courses; make a note of it straight away.

17. During your reconnaissance it may be useful to have an analysis of approach table in your notebook (see Parts 2 to 5) and fill it out as you go.

18. In conjunction with your notebook, a spare talc on your mapboard can be very useful. On this you mark (during your map reconnaissance and confirm on your ground reconnaissance) the following (checking each against the meaning given in the Glossary at Part 6):

a. obvious obstacles and cannalizing effects offered by the ground;

b. key terrain;

c. vital ground;

d. objectives (if it is an attack appreciation);

e. FUP;

f. approaches;

g. ground covering approaches; and

h. alternative approaches to objectives if applicable.

While doing this remember you are thinking two down in the context of the problem. It may be useful in defence, for example, to draw in the main approach to the formation/brigade ground to derive the approaches to your vital ground.

19. The drawing exercise on the talc provides a useful basis for preparing overlays later. The prime purpose, however, is to assist in the generation of data for the notebook and the appreciation itself. This is achieved by arriving at measurable aspects such as:

a. the size and location of objectives;

b. the capacity of approaches;

c. the assault distances; and

d. the ranges of key terrain which dominate likely siting of own troops (eg a ridgeline to the front may allow enemy tanks to neutralise ones own defensive positions if located within 1 500 m in direct line of sight).

20. It is useful to prepare the pages of your appreciation before you sit down to do it. This prevents the loss of a train of thought while you write 'EXERCISE SECRET' and so forth on pages. Prepare your annexes and overlays so those that need to fold out next to certain texts do so. This is particularly relevant to the analysis of approaches and approach overlay. The outline plan overlay should fold out next to the outline plan.

21. Work out the time and space for your conduct of reconnaissance and the writing of the appreciation. When doing this for the appreciation, a minimum of 30 percent should be allocated to ground. Many spend much more than this which is quite workable given that a thorough ground analysis will produce the bulk of the data required. Make sure, however, that you leave sufficient time for both compulsory overlays and a review of your work.

22. When you have completed your outline plan overlay, check it against the requirement listed in the problem.

Hints for Students on a TEWT

23. Hints for students on a TEWT ate given at Annex C.

Service Writing Conventions

24. The JSC appreciation trains students for staff work where operational information is collected and then used to produce suggested solutions to a commander. Service writing standards must therefore be high.

25. The details of service writing requirements with supporting references are listed at Annex B to Part 1.

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Conclusion

26. The amount of study required to this point may seem to be somewhat excessive. The appreciation process is, however, an essential part of a staff officer's tool kit. The process can be used to solve military administrative problems and in the assessment of a host of military and non military issues. The vehicle used to teach the subject at JSW is the tactical note form appreciation and this brings with it the advantages of developing an understanding of both the tactical principles and the practicalities of fighting on the battlefield. The subject is therefore extensive and important but the application of it is not difficult. The difficult part is understanding the process and if you have followed the instructions given in this part you should now be well on the path of that understanding. The application of the process is time consuming and the major difficulty lies in maintaining concentration.

27. Having done the study, developed an understanding, and written appreciations, you will be in a position to apply military judgement based on a sound balance of analytical and conceptual thought.

Annexes: A. Attack Appreciation Flow Diagram

B. Service Writing Conventions in the Appreciation, Outline Plan and Overlays

C. Hints for the Delivery of Operational Briefs

ATTACK APPRECIATION FLOW DIAGRAM

J19-004

ANNEX B TO PART 1 OF 3.T. 1

SERVICE WRITING CONVENTIONS IN THE APPRECIATION OUTLINE PLAN AND OVERLAYS

References: A. JSP (AS) 102 - Service Writing (Second Edition), 1984

B. MLW One 5.1 - Staff Duties in the Field, 1986

1. writing bel ow. 2 and 3

Common Conventions in the Appreciation. The common service conventions for the appreciation (not outline plan) are listed They are displayed in the example appreciation layouts in Parts

Serial Point

1 Layout and content

2 'For' 'By' use names not appointments

3 Map references

4 Security classification

5 Page numbering including Annexes and Appendices

6 Copy numbering including Annexes and Appendices

7 Heading content

8 Paragraph numbering

9 Sequence (logical development)

10 Unit titles

11 Place names

13 Location (Note: GR or GS not used with numbers)

14 Date/time groups (no need to use time zone suffix because it is mentioned in superscript)

Location/Reference

Examples in Parts 2 and 3

Examples

A. para 259

A. para 221 and 223

A. para 209

A. para 211

A. para 203

A. para 208

Parts 2 to 5

A. paras 244-246

A. paras 247-248

A. paras 247-248

A. paras 236-240

15 Directions A. para 243

1B-2 ANNEX B

Serial Point Reference

16 Approaches are lettered. B. para 525

17 Approach presentation B. para 529 (The illustration at Annex D to Glossary Part 6 Reference A is limited. Approaches are more usefully drawn to scale to reflect capacity. This is discussed in Part 6 Glossary. Overlays are discussed further in paragraph 3 below and in Parts 2 and 3.)

2. Outline Plan. The outline plan follows the general structure of an operation order and is the best way of converting a chosen course into a directive. Many students have difficulty with this section and the references are not clear. This area is therefore dealt with in some detail. The level, content and layout conventions are listed below:

a' Level» The purpose of an outline plan is to provide sufficient information to allow a trained staff officer to draft the operation order from it. See Reference B, paragraph 542.

b. Basis of the Outline Plan. The plan is based on the best course. The detail in the plan is extracted from the relevant deductions particularly in ground, time and space and assessment of tasks.

c. Content. The content of the outline plan is to include:

(1) the mission stated in full;

(2) a general outline - stated in at least as much detail as the course adopted;

(3) grouping and tasking;

(4) essential co-ordination instructions; and

(5) essential administrative support and command and control matters.

d. Convention in Layout. Many students have difficulty with the layout of an outline plan. The reasons for this lie in the fact that they are usually rushed at the end of the appreciation process and there is no specific example in Reference B. If students have derived information in sufficient detail throughout the appreciation, the outline plan becomes a transcription exercise. The following points should be noted:

IB-3 ANNEX B

(1) An Outline Plan example Is given in Part 2.

(2) Maximum use of abbreviations should be used except in paragraph headings.

(3) The headings should follow the 'SMEAC' mnemonic.

(4) The grouping and tasking is best done at battalion level and below by:

(a) phases if grouping changes for each phase, or

(b) stating the grouping for all phases first if it is to remain constant and list tasks by phases.

The method for detailing grouping is covered in Annex A to Chapter 6 of Reference B. Attention is particularly drawn to Appendix 1 to Annex A for the wording for the various status of command. The confirmatory notes for appreciation exercises give a useful basis for grouping and tasking conventions.

3. Outline Plan Overlay. The outline plan may be written on the side of the overlay or in the body of the text. The latter course is more appropriate at JSW because of the volume of information involved. The overlay should , however, fold out next to the outline plan. (The approach overlay should fold out next to the analysis of approaches). The following points on outline plan overlays should be noted:

a. Purpose and Value. Essentially a picture is worth a thousand words and so lies the value of an overlay. The purpose is to allow the reader to quickly and accurately understand the content of the outline plan. In line with this, overlay techniques should be substituted for written techniques. For example, phase lines should be illustrated rather than simply code worded and in turn the co-ordination instructions should refer to the overlay.

b. Avoidance of Duplication. It is fairly pointless to give the same information in the same form twice, one in the outline plan and once in the overlay. Duplication is relevant if alluded to in the text and illustrated (and referred to) in the overlay. There is not much written about overlays. Some relevant hints on written • and overlay technique can be extracted from Reference B, paragraph 715.

c. Content. The overlay is to include:

(1) an adequate heading (just 'Outline Plan' does not fulfil the requirement);

(2) 'EXERCISE SECRET' top and bottom;

2 A-4 ANNEX A

(3) map references for the map upon which the overlay Is based;

(4) copy number (relates to the security classification);

(5) annex block;

(6) three grid intersection points on three different sets of northings and eastings unless the scale of the map precludes this, also include a north point;

(7) orientate the overlay so that the en is at the top of the trace regardless of north direction; and

(8) the information required to reflect the outline plan (including all the points requested in the problem given) and displayed:

(a) in correct colours (or legend used);

(b) usinj correct symbols (or legend used);

(c) neatly; and

(d) in a manner allowing easy adjustment.

The coverage listed above gives sufficient basis for other overlays and therefore they will not be treated in detail here. Remember, however, that if a number of overlays are produced on the one scale map, it should be possible to lay one on top of the other and match information. It is useful therefore if grid intersections are the same for each overlay. If information is repeated in several overlays it must be named the same in each. Thus App B is always App B whichever overlay it appears on (as is KT3 or Obj 4 and so on). Avoid using too many overlays as this can become awkward and confusing. In defence you need a ground overlay on an enlargement, a derivation of approach overlay on the normal scale map, perhaps a ground capacity and perhaps a suggested platoon location overlay. In the attack you generally only need an approach overlay. In all appreciations you need an outline plan overlay.

Conclusion

4. When writing an appreciation remember that you are communicating to the reader not yourself (even if you have written to and by yourself at the beginning). It is essential therefore that you get your meaning across succinctly and clearly. Present your information so that it is easy to follow. Ensure that if documents must be read side by side that you present it so that one page folds out next to the other, so saving the reader from the frustration of having to unbind your work.

2 A-5 ANNEX A

5. Halle Selassie, upon the invasion of Ethiopia by the Italians in 1935, did his appreciation and gave the following clear concise plan:

'Everyone will now be mobilized and all boys old enough to carry a spear will be sent to Addis Ababa. Married men will take their wives to carry food and cook. Those without wives will take any woman without a husband. Women with small babies need not go. The blind, those who cannot walk or for any reason cannot carry a spear are exempted. Anyone found at home after receipt of this order will be hanged.'

Haile Selassie Emperor of Ethiopia

This is a good example of clear and concise operational staff work.

J23-009

ANNEX C TO PART 1 OF 3T1

HINTS FOR THE DELIVERY OF OPERATIONAL BRIEFS

'Above all, individual training was the time for TEWTs. A TEWT was a Tactical Exercise Without Troops. It could be held in the open, or on a sand or cloth model made up to represent a suitable piece of ground, or even on a map. A senior officer prepared the exercise and gave us all pieces of paper that told us what troops were supposed to be taking part 011 our side, what we were trying to do, what we knew about the enemy, what the situation was when the exercise began, and what person we were supposed to be representing. Then at the appointed time we gathered at a viewpoint or round the sand model, and the director gave out Narrative 1. In Narrative 1 our make-believe commander usually appeared and barked out a series of orders. Problem 1 followed immediately: "What is your plan to carry out these orders? Tell me here in thirty minutes".

We looked at the ground, and at our notebooks, and back again, and straggled off in small syndicates to work out a feasible solution.

Time was up. We gathered again. The director said, "Masters, let's have your syndicate's plan".

"Well, sir, we don't know much about the enemy here, and — er

"Yes, yes, I don't want the whole appreciation - just your plan".

"Well, sir, the guns are out of range and will have to be moved ..." I ploughed miserably on. No comment was made when I finished.

"Murray, yours".

"My intention is to capture Black Ridge - there - in sufficient time to enable consolidation to be completed before last light. Consolidation will take two hours. Last light is at 1827 hours, so I must capture Black Ridge by 1627 hours. Support - 84 Field Battery from positions behind Tuni Hatti 1765. Battery to be in position by 1500 hours for ranging. Start line-copse 194033 - track to 193030 - house 193026. Zero hour 1530 hours ...."

I hung my head in shame. Here was the only sensible plan, coming out in short, decisive phrases, with no urns and ers, carrying conviction, simple to understand. Our syndicate had had the same plan, but no one listening to me would have thought I believed in it myself, so they certainly would not have. I noted down on the tablets of my memory: make up your mind, know what you are going to say, say it briefly, then stop.'

(Extract from : John Masters, Bugle and a Tiger, Transworld, London, 1956)

1C-2 ANNEX C

General

1. Listed below are some notes to assist students during the conduct of exercises where briefings on tactical plans are required. The skills presented here are important for all officer development courses, for officer training in units and particularly for the development of oral briefing techniques. The notes follow the sequence of a TEWT from ground orientation to the presentation of plans. Concepts of operations are included because students are given these in exercise papers and are required to present concepts for contingency plans during indoor exercises such as the CPX.

Ground Briefings

2. It is suggested that students use the following sequence when required to give a ground orientation briefing:

a. Present Location. Give the grid reference.

b. Grid North or South. Indicate by pointing.

c. Area of general interest. Using the north or south point as centre of arc, identify left and right arcs and describe the ground therein in general terms.

d. Ground Essential to an Understanding of the Problem. Use the vertical clock or angular measurement from a reference point method to indicate:

(1) key terrain;

(2) obstacles;

(3) killing grounds;

(4) cover.

Method of Indication and Measurement

3. The Vertical Clock Method.

a. Imagine that a clock face is suspended vertically, with its centre on a stated reference object and with 12 o'clock vertically above that object.

2 A-3 ANNEX A

b. Reference to another object or target is given in terms of the clock, hour on which it libs, and by the angle in mils from the centre of the clock measured along the radius of the circle eg would be 'Reference bottom right corner of house. Right, 4 o'clock, 40 mils, left hand patch of two patches of scrub'.

4. Determining Angular Measurement.

a. Measurement by the Hand Span Method. A person's hand extended at arm's length can be used to measure angles. Indicate the distance to the objective as knuckles, fist or hand span from a known reference point.

b. Measuring by Binoculars. Standard service binoculars have inscribed graticules. Details of the graticule pattern are:

(1) horizontal interval between each graticule ... 10 mils;

(2) vertical graticule length (height):

(a) large (centre) graticule L.... 20 mils;

(b) middle size graticule 10 mils;

(c) small size graticule 5 mils.

(3) Indicate the objective in units from a known reference point.

Observers must indicate recognition by stating 'seen' or 1 again'.

Notes for the Preparation of a Presentation

5. When preparing a presentation follow the check list below:

a. Be Prepared. Allow time at the end of your consideration for:

(1) preparation of your overlay, and

(2) rehearsal of your presentation including a check list of the sequence of presentation.

b. Overlay. Ensure that your overlay:

(1) is heat,

(2) uses correct military symbols,

2 A-4 ANNEX A

(3) shows your plan and groupings,

(4) avoids unnecessary detail, <

(5) records your name, and

(6) is titled.

Conduct of the Presentation. presentation as follows:

Be prepared to conduct your

(1) Speak Clearly. Express your ideas concisely with clear diction and correct military terminology. Avoid jargon, cliches and statements not related to the problem.

(2) Speak Slowly. A balance must be found between speaking so quickly that you cannot be followed and so slowly as to make it difficult for the audience to concentrate.

(3) Speak Confidently. Know what you intend to do. Refer to you notes when necessary. Speak to your instrutor and syndicate.

(4) Relate Overlay to Ground. Ensure that your overlay and map are oriented to the ground and relate the overlay to the ground. For example:

'one battlaion located: here - (point to the overlay) there - (point to the ground)!

(5) Answer the Questions. Ensure you have answered all the questions in the problem.

Preparation of the Audience and Aids. Use this sequence:

(1) set your mapboard on the easel and orient it to the ground;

(2) reposition the syndicate, if necessary;

(3) give the syndicate your ground orientation briefing;

(4) state any assumptions you have made; and

(5) present your plan/concept in the sequence shown below.

Delivery of the Execution Paragraph. The execution paragraph must be presented in a manner which is clear and easy to follow. It is suggested that:

1C-5 ANNEX C

(1) For defensive operations you should:

(a) state your vital ground;

(b) give grouping and tasks of major infantry and armoured units;

«

(c) give grouping and tasks of composite forces, screen and reserve; and

(d) give tasks and priorities of supporting arms.

(2) For offensive operations you should:

(a) state what you consider to be the enemy's vital ground; and

(b) present the operation in its chronological sequence by phases and if applicable, detail:

i. those tasked, eg assault, flank security, reserve and fire support (both direct and indirect);

ii. limits of exploitation; and

iii. locations for reorganization.

f. The Cardinal Rules. Ensure you:

(1) do NOT speak to your notes or your mapboard,

(2) do NOT present you plan without reference to the ground during outdoor exercises,

(3) do NOT attempt to justify your plan as you present it, and

(4) do NOT waffle.

g. Conclusion. Be:

(1) confident,

(2) concise, and

(3) accurate.

The Presentation of the Outline Plan

6. An outline plan should be presented in the following sequence:

a. Mission.

2 A-6 ANNEX A

b. Execution.

(1) General Outline. A concise statement of how the mission ts to be achieved.

(2) Grouping and Tasks. An explanation of the grouping and tasks of the major units and, if necessary, sub-units under command; followed by a description of the general tasks and priorities of supporting arms. The normal sequence is:

(a) units under command in order of precedence;

(b) special tasks with composite grouping, eg screen and reserve; and

(c) supporting arms in order of corps seniority.

(3) Co-ordinating Instructions.

(a) Timings. Key timings only.

(b) Control Measures. Any additional control measures not shown on the overlay.

(c) Fire Plan. Details of objectives, priorities, effect required and outline timings.

(4) Administration and Logistics. Key aspects relating to administration in support of your plan, if appli cable.

(5) Command and Signal. Location of your headquarters and any essential command and signals matters.

7. Avoid reference to specific units by title during the presentation. Use generic terminology. For example, instead of '3 PI with 1 Tp A Sqn 11 Armd Regt, 2 Tp C Sqn 11 APC Regt and 101 Fd Bty' , use 'a mounted platoon supported by a troop of tanks and battery of field artillery'. Your overlay, however, must show the specific units by their correct military symbols.

8. An example Outline Plan Overlay is shown at Annex A to Chapter 7 of Reference B. Note that only the 'Mission' and ';Execution' paragraphs are written on the Overlay.

1C-7 ANNEX C

The Concept of Operations

9. A concept of operations is a verbal or graphic/written statement, in broad outline, of a commander's assumptions and intentions throughout an operation. In other words, it is a broadly stated outline plan. It is to be presented orally and supported by an overlay. You will be given concepts of operations in your problems and you will be required to present your commanders concept in exercises during the JSC.

10. Notes to support the presentation of a concept of operations should be prepared in the following sequence:

a. Assumptions. Reasonable assumptions which would be most likely to occur and which are essential for the development of your concept.

b. Assessment of Likely Enemy Operations. Key aspects of the enemy's intentions, objectives and likely actions.

c. Mission.

d. Concept of Manoeuvre. A thorough description of the general outline of the entire operation including a statement of the grouping and manoeuvre (by phases if applicable) of your forces.

e. Deception Plan. Objective.

f. Fire Support. A general statement of priorities for support for both artillery and air.

g. Key Timings. Summarize key timings applicable to the operation.

h. Vulnerabilities, Disadvantages and Risks of Own Concept and Proposed Counters.

J 19-005 JAN 88

PART 2

THE DEFENCE APPRECIATION

'The objective of the defence will be to destroy the enemy and not merely to stop him'

Field Marshal Montgomery

'Defensive operations are a prelude to offensive action and as such are only temporary. Defence must be aggressive in order to retain high morale and an offensive spirit. Defensive operations may be conducted:

a. to weaken a numerically superior enemy,

b. to fight the enemy on ground of the defender's choosing,

c. to deny the enemy access to a vital area,

d. to gain time for more favourable conditions of battle,

e. to protect or cover the operations of another force,

f. to permit the conduct of offensive operations by another force elsewhere, or

g. to avoid destruction or unacceptable losses.'

MLW One.1.4 - Formation Tactics, 1987

Introduction

1. In writing a defence appreciation do not think defensively. Work out where and with what the enemy will assault. Decide where he can be destroyed while own troops combat power is maintained, and then site weapons to achieve that destruction and site obstacles to guarantee it.

2. What is to follow is a check list for the appreciation for area defence. It is not exhaustive and should not be followed slavishly. It should be read in conjunction with the example appreciation at Annex A.

2-2

Aim

3. The alternatives for the statement of the aim in area defence could be:

a. to defend a feature,

b. to defend within boundaries ,

c. to deny access to , or

d. to deny an approach.

You must appreciate that each of these alternatives, taken as your aim, will result in a different plan. The defence of a feature will lead you, in most cases, to a set-piece area defence with troops occupying prepared defensive positions. Defence within boundaries will lead to a more flexible approach to the selection of the ground on which to base your defence and you will have to select your vital ground within the area given and you should therefore defend on the approaches to that vital ground. In denying access to an area you must cover all the approaches into your area. See Glossary Part 6 for the definitions of defend and deny. Note that you can deny an approach but your cannot defend an approach.

Limitations

A. By its very nature, this phase of war tends to proffer the greatest number of limitations. See Part 6 Glossary for a definition of limitation. Typical limitations are:

a. occupy by time;

b. defend by time;

c. patrol requirements laid down by superior HQ;

d. work party requirements;

e. achievement of mutual support with other units/sub-units;

f. deny routes through the area;

g. level of digging (stages 1 to 3) laid down by a superior HQ;

h. denial of particular approaches to the next level vital ground; and

i. the provision of forces for security tasks, eg screen etc.

Note that this list is not exhaustive.

2-3

Factors General

5. List the factors you believe relevant for each section in your notebook. Then check them against Annex B. Do not simply copy out the sequence/statements in the Annex as this will obstruct your own thought process.

6. See the definitions of factor and deduction in the Part 6 Glossary. List your factors down one side of the page and deductions on the other. An example of this is shown at Appendix 1 to Annex A.

Relative Strengths

7. If enemy and own troops are treated separately for convenience ensure that you summarize the 'relative strengths' at the end. Annex A lists some of the factors, questions and type of deductions required here. Broadly speaking look at:

a. With regard to the enemy:

(1) grouping, strength and location;

(2) reconnaissance;

(3) indirect fire support;

(4) sequence of attack including probes;

(5) armour;

(6) air threat; and

(7) intention.

b. With regard to own forces:

(1) special equipment;

(2) anti-armour resources;

(3) defence stores;

(4) indirect fire support;

(5) direct fire support; and

(6) co-ordination with flanks.

c. Summary of deductions giving a view of relative combat power. This may be left until after Ground where approach capacities are determined. This will give you the basis for deducing the ratio of infantry and armour. The artillery and anti-armour ratios remain fairly fixed. If you do leave this until after ground, say so here for the

6-11

reader's benefit. What comes from this then is a statement of advantages and disadvantages to each combatant.

Ground

8. This involves the following:

a. A statement of ground general (see Annex B).

b. Selection of key terrain (see definition in the Part 6 Glossary) and numbering them.

c. Selection of vital ground (see Part 6 Glossary).

d. Selection of approaches (see Part 6 Glossary) by

(1) selection of enemy assembly areas;

(2) selection of FUP;

(3) recognition of natural obstacles which will effect the approaches between the FUP and vital ground; and

(4) drawing in of the assault part of the approach (see Part 6 Glossary).

e. Determination of ground covering approaches.

f. Completion of a tabular assessment of approaches (see headings at paragraph 4.c.(2) to Annex B).

g. Completion of an approach overlay showing:

(1) key terrain,

(2) vital ground,

(3) FUP, and

(4) approaches.

In deriving this during the JSC it will be necessary to use two overlays. First identify your key terrain and vital ground on an enlargement. Then on the map mark in the one up approaches through your area, the vital ground, and FUP, and then derive the approaches to your vital ground illustrating these on an overlay. Then transpose the approaches thus derived onto the map enlargement overlay to facilitate a study of ground covering.

h. Completion of a ground capacity overlay showing possible MG (or section) and anti-armour weapon sites (using numbered goose eggs).

6-11

i. Completion of a summary of deductions in the body of the appreciation.

9. The detail for the above is shown in Annex B to Part 2.

Staff checks

10. Up to the point of drawing platoon 'goose eggs' around possible section positions you were expanding your options. At this point you have begun to narrow them. Time and space and assessment of tasks are two staff checks applied to the volume of resource information developed so far in the appreciation process. Where and how these checks are conducted is a personal thing. For example, much of the detail for the assessment of fire support tasks may have been covered under the 'effect of fire support' in the analysis of approaches. Time and space may have been constantly alluded to. It may be necessary again after each course (this is particularly true in the attack appreciation). In MLW One 6.1 - Staff Duties in the Field, 1971, assessment of tasks is shown after enemy courses. Wherever they are put, these two staff checks are a direct lead in to the development of courses and ensure that the resource allocation will realistically support all course options.

Time and Space

11. Time and space can be detailed either in the text or in a table set out in the text or as an annex. This part really has to do with the preparation for rather than the conduct of the battle. The suggested headings are detailed at paragraph 5 of Annex B. Conclude this section with a summary and a priority of work. This section may follow the assessment of tasks. If it does, a preliminary time and space is useful to determine what is possible (eg Stage 2 or Stage 3 digging etc). If this section does precede assessment of tasks it may be useful to leave the priority of works until the conclusion of the assessment of tasks. If you do this, explain it in the text.

Assessment of Tasks

12. Complete a table in the text or as an annex which first lists the tasks common to all the approaches (eg limitations to the aim) and then list tasks by approaches. All tasks should be given a priority. The denial of approaches can be described by referring to MG (or section) and/or anti-armour positions identified in the analysis of approaches and the ground capacity overlay. The denial of approaches is derived from ground covering approaches. Having made out the shopping list apply the budget and derive compromise solutions. This leads to the identification of platoon 'goose eggs' around the numbered section positions identified as the best.

13. See Annex A paragraphs 11 to 14 and Annex B for the detail required in assessment of tasks.

2-6

Enemy Courses

14. Enemy courses are derived from doctrinal statements, from deductions made under relative strengths and from deductions made under ground particularly in relation to approaches. Enemy courses are not simply a re-statement of approaches but a statement of how they will use those approaches in terms of size and type of force. See Annex A for an example.

15. Enemy courses are lettered and stated in broad outline but in sufficient detail to show effect. They should reflect the following:

a. more than one;

b. likelihood;

c. enemy doctrine;

d. state effect on own forces (basis of own courses); and

e. state the most probable course.

16. The detailed considerations are listed at paragraph 7 of Annex B.

/

Own Courses

17. Own courses are numbered using Roman numerals. See the example at Annex A. Remember that no course is without disadvantages. The advantage of the appreciation process is that you recognise these and then take steps in your best course to overcome them as best you can. Avoid stating principles and characteristics as advantages and disadvantages. Most advantages and disadvantages will have been identified during the previous appreciation steps, however, a review of the considerations for defence may provide further points.

Outline Plan

18. The conventions for the outline plan are given in detail at paragraph 2 of Annex B to Part 1. An example of an outline plan for a company level area defence problem is given at Annex A at the conclusion of the example appreciation.

Outline Plan Overlay

19. The conventions for the outline plan are listed at paragraph 3 of Annex B to Part 1. Check the requirement in the problem and ensure that all the information is shown. If you cannot find an appropriate symbol (eg for OC battle pit) make one up and describe it in a legend.

6-11

Re-Appreciation

20. If you believe a re-appreciation may be necessary at a later stage, end your submission with 'Re-appreciate at ' or 'when ....'.

Revision

21. Throughout the appreciation check your work against the list at Annex C to Part 2.

Annexes: A. An Example of the Layout of an Appreciation and Content of an Outline Plan for a Defence Problem at Company Level

/

B. Factors, Courses and Deductions for the Defence Appreciation

C. Defence Appreciation Check List

J23-001

ANNEX A TO PART 2 OF 3.T.1

AN EXAMPLE OF THE LAYOUT OF AN APPRECIATION AND CONTENT OF AN OUTLINE PLAN

FOR A DEFENCE PROBLEM AT COMPANY LEVEL

1. What is to follow must be read in conjunction with the text and Annex B to Part 2. Students are warned against following this section slavishly.

2. The annexes and overlays are not included in the example. There is sufficient detail in the text and Annex B to Part 2.

EX SECRET Page 1 of 26

Copy No 1 of 2

OPS 310

AN APPRECIATION OF THE D COY 11 INF BN DEF OF THE AREA OF CHARD SPUR 0643 0743

For: CAPT I.B. SMART

By: CAPT I.B. SMART

Loc: D Coy 11 Inf Bn BEAUDESERT

At: 1200K On: 2 May 93

References: A. R832, Sheet 9542-111NW, LOGAN VILLAGE, Ed 2, 1:25 000

B. R832, Sheet 9542-111SW, BEAUDESERT, Ed 1, 1:25 000

C. Map Enlargement, BIRNAM RANGE Area, 1:6 250 approx

D. Confirmatory Notes to Preliminary Order, given by CO 11 Inf Bn at HQ 11 Inf Bn at 011800K May

Time zone used throughout the appreciation : Kilo

AIM

( deny NW app to ) 1. To ( def within bdrys ) with fol limitations:

(def MALFUNCTION JUNCTION)

EX SECRET

2 A-2 ANNEX A

EX SECRET - 2 -

a. occupy by ;

b. def by ;

c. deny en use of SHANES ROAD;

d. deny north app to Bn vital gnd;

e. prov work parties ;

g«

FACTORS

(An example of the tabular layout of factors and deductions is shown at Appendix 1.)

Relative Str (List factors here) (List deductions here)

2. En. a. (1)

b. (See factor guide (2) (See deductions in factor guide) at Annex B to Pt 2)

c.

3. Own Tps.

a. (1)

b. (See factor guide (2) (See deductions in factor guide) at Annex B to Pt 2)

c. (3)

d.

4. Summary of Relative Strs. (This may be given in outline here and then developed further after gnd if the app capacity will help formulate the relative combat ratio statements. See paragraph 7c of Part 2.)

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2 A-3 ANNEX A

EX SECRET I J T —

Cud

5. Gen. (1)

(2) .

(3)

(1) Vital Gnd. (Deductions leading to choice of VG)

(1) Analysis of Apps. See Apendix 1 to Annex B. (Ensure that this appendix folds out next to the Annex. Note that the key to this analysis Is the treatment of gnd covering).

(2) Capacity of Gnd to Spt Wpns to Cover App. See Annex C. (Here show possible MGS (or sects) and anti-armd wpns on an overlay. These relate directly to key terrain. It may be useful to include the apps again in this overlay).

8. Summary of Deductions on Gnd. (This may prove a useful lead into en courses, obs planning and anti-armd planning).

Time and Space. (This may be covered now or after Assesment of Tasks. It is sometimes covered now in at least preliminary form to see what is achievable in the time frame, eg if time does not allow for the prep of altn posn then there is no point analysing altn posn tasking. See Part 2 and Annex B to Part 2 for the details required here. The aim is to produce a pri of work ie a sequence in which the posn will be prep.)

9. a.

b.

c.

d.

e.

f. obs etc

6. Key Terrain (KT) See Annex A

7. Apps. These were derived on Ref B (see over-lay at Annex A) and are shown on Annex B.

Time now.

(timings given in (1) limitations)

(2)

(3) (timings deduced (4) earlier, eg digging to OHP time)

(time for battle procedure sufficient?) (number of section hours available) (deduct times for tasks given in factor column) (deduce time left and what you can do with this time, eg altn posn, stage 3,

EX SECRET

2A-4 ANNEX A

EX SECRET -4-

(5) Pri of Work (Sequence in which posn will be developed) (a) (if time and space

precedes assessment (b) of tasks it may be

useful to complete (c) this section after

assessment of tasks. If you choose to do this, say so) .

10. Summary of Deductions (If applicable)

Assessment of Tasks (Make out a shopping list, apply the budget of resources and suggest compromise solutions as lead into own course. Some find the listing of all tasks confusing. The prep and conduct tasks are separated here but this is not mandatory. Most prep tasks are covered in time and space.)

11. Conduct of the Battle (This may be shown as an annex. An altn way of developing this in a quantitative manner in a table is illustrated at Appendix 2.

Ser TaT

Task TbT"

Resource ( O

Pri TdT

Remarks (I)

1 Deny App A MG )Posn from (Give pri to )gnd various posns

2 Anti- )capacity eg MG2, 4, 6, Armd ) 7, Pri 1

)0bs from MG 8, 9 Pri 2) 3 Obs )gen assess- (Altn for obs)

ment of app (Posn which satisfy more than one app)

Deny App B MG Anti-armd Obs

(Limitation Tasks)

(Task resources two down)

(Deduced Tasks)

12. Deductions (From the table and pri of tasking etc derive combinations of sect posns to give possible pi posns. Derive also the best anti-armd posns. Show these on an overlay as a series of over-lapping 'goose eggs'. List the capabilities of each pi posn and set of two anti-armd posns).

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2 A-5 ANNEX A

EX SECRET -5-

13* Preparation for the Battle (This may be shown as an annex. This part, if used, may summarize the tasks realized from the conduct aspect).

Ser Task Resource Prl Remarks

(Here list all the prep tasks eg ptl develop wire obs, bn work parties, digging)

(By sect not (Derived pi or coy) frcm the

conduct of the Battle)

(Discussion of such aspects as altn obs may be useful)

(If a Time and Space has already been covered, now add the 'Priority of Work' from that section)

14. Application of Resource Budget (A summary of the above giving a mix and match of posns and anti-armd and obs altns leading to a clear cut definition of options. Do this by gp high pri MGs into pi posns.)

15. PI and Spt Sect Posns.

(Here discuss each pi and spt sect posn as a basis for the development of own courses.)

EN COURSES

16. (Introduce the en courses with a statement(s) on how you see the battle developing to the deliberate attack stage. Do this in the context of one up. Then derive the deliberate attack options onto your posn).

17. Course A. A bn ni atk spt by a coy of tks on app C while B Coy is neutralized preceded by probes and prep fire. (State these in general terms. The day version of this is not another course):

a. Likelihood. Quite likely especially if the quick atk on B Coy failed. It is also the atk which is recognised as likely in the CO concept as Phase 1 of the atk to the 11 Bn VG.

b. Effect. As this course uses a large number of tks I need to seek Bn assistance in separating the armd from the inf and thus allow D Coy to conc on the inf. My best Carl Gustaff posns for this course are 1 and 4 with altns at 6 and 8. This course does not allow me to rely on spt from B Coy so I need to max my MG fire fwd of posns 7, 10, 12, 13, 14. I should ensure that I have two pis up. I can do this both fwd and back. I need to ensure that I use claymores in the area (This area gives the fine tune to the options developed under Assessment of Tasks).

EX SECRET

2 A-6 ANNEX A

18. Course B.

a. Likelihood.

b. Effect. ...

19. Course C

ENEMY'S MOST PROBABLE COURSE

20. (This may combine some aspects of other courses as well. If so summarize effect).

OWN COURSES

21. Course I. (stated fully) Def well fwd. Pi posns 1, 2 and 5. Spt Sect loc posn 1 with altn at posn 3. Coy HQ loc rear posn 5. Obs loc (This may be spt by an overlay for obs or any other aspect not economically described in writing).

a. Advantages.

(1) Dominates Bn Killing Gnds 1, 2, 3.

(2) Covers dead gild in creek to NW of posn 6.

(3) Covers as far fwd as CENTRE SPUR.

(4) Allows dispersion.

(5) Max depth to VG.

b. Disadvantages.

(1) Large obs requirement.

(2) Vulnerable to tk dir FS from CENTRE SPUR.

(3) Salient eff in posn 2 may require counter penetration force.

(4) Exposed to air and gnd obsn.

22. Course II.

a. Advantages.

b. Disadvantages.

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EX SECRET

2 A-7 ANNEX A

EX SECRET -7-

23. Course III.

a. Advantages.

b* Disadvantages.

SELECTION OF BEST COURSE

24. I will adopt Course IV because it:

a ) (Reasons or statements of ) major advantages and how

b ) this course minimizes the ) disadvantages so far

) developed. ) d )

OUTLINE PLAN FOR THE D COY DEFENCE OF THE 170 FEATURE

25. Mission. To def 170 FEATURE.

26. Execution:

a. Gen Outline. Def with two pis fwd and one pi in depth as per overlay. Ptl Iocs fwd vie 069432. Wire obs to be const fwd of and between fwd pi. Coy HQ to be loc in rear of depth pi.

b. 10 PI

(1) G£ _

(a) In loc Spt Sect

(b) In DS MFC

(2) Tasks.

(a) Occupy SPUR 061166.

(b) Deny northern app.

(c) Deny en use of SHANES ROAD.

(d) Prov spt to 11 PI.

(e) Prov interlocking FS with 12 PI vie 069468.

(f) Prov interlocking FS with 13 Inf Bn vie 072281.

EX SECRET

2 A-8 ANNEX A

EX SECRET - 8 -

11 PI.

(1) Gp. In loc Coy Comd Gp.

(2) Tasks.


(b) Deny northern app.

(c) Prov spt to 10 PI and 11 PI.

(d) Prov PI str mine laying party night 6/9 Aug.

d. 12 PI.

(1) Gp. No change.

(2) Tasks.


(b) Deny northern and NW app.

(c) Prov spt to B Coy and 11 PI.

(d) Prov interlocking FS with 10 PI at 069468.

e. Spt Sect.

(1) Tasks.

(a) Pri. prov anti-armd FS IAW Bn anti-armd plan.

(b) Altn. Deny en armd app from north. Loc vie 050462. See overlay.

(c) Altn. Deny en use of SHANES ROAD. Loc 10 PI.

(d) Altn. Ilium. Loc vie 068473.

f. Coord Instr.

(1) FS;_

(a) FOP loc Coy HQ.

(b) MFC loc 10 PI.

(c) Coy HQ MG with tripod and C2 sight prov spt to B Coy alloc to 12 PI.

(2) Bdrys Annex C.

(3) Locs Annex C.

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2 A-9 ANNEX A

EX SECRET -9-

(4) Timings.

(a) Occupy by 060800.

(b) Def by 100600.

(c) Stage II by 081800.

(d) Wire obs const by 081800.

(e) OHP on sleeping bays by 090600.

(f) Ptl prgm commence 050800.

(5) Obs.

(a) Loc and Types. Annex C.

(b) Pis to const wire obs within bdry.

(c) 11 PI to lay Bn obs night 6/7 Aug.

(6) Ilium. Passive. No ilium to be fired without Bn HQ approval.

(7) Pri of Work.

(a) Fighting pits to Stage II.

(b) Wire obs const.

(c) All OHP complete incl sleeping bays by 090600.

(d) Complete Stage III.

(8) Ptl. Prgm iss separately,

(b) Tasks.

(1) Bn Ptls. Tasks TBA NLT 042359. Coy to prov one sect standing ptl and recon ptl from 050800. Intensity increased from 081800.

(2) Coy Ptl.

i. Recon. Prov EW of en activity to north of Coy loc. Routes iss at ptl briefing.

ii. Standby. Res. Be prep to react as req. Str half pi.

(I.B. SMART) CAPT OC D COY

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2 A-10 ANNEX A

EX SECRET - 1 0 -

Annexes: A. Key Terrain, Vital Gnd, App and Killing Gnd in D Coy

Area.

B. Derivation of App to D Coy Vital Gnd

C. Gnd Capacity in the D Coy Area

D. Courses for the Def of the 170 FEATURE

E. Outline Plan for the Def of the 170 FEATURE

Distribution:

OC D Coy File

Copy No (incl annexes)

1 2

EX SECRET

Appendices: 1. Example of the Tabular Layout of Factor and Deductions

2. Example of Weight Scoring of Machine Gun and Carl Gustaf Sites in the Assessment of Tasks.

J23-012

APPENDIX 1 ANNEX A TO PART 2 OF 3T1

EXAMPLE OF TOE TABULAR LAYOUT OF FACTORS AND DEDUCTIONS

EX SECRET

Relative Str 1. 2. En.

a. 301 Rif Div is adv south using MOUNT LINDESAY HIGHWAY. Obj is BEAUEESERT. In addition to thrust on MDUNT LINDESAY HIGHWAY will develop altn push through BIRNAM RANGE down MUNDOOLUN ROAD 0321 to 0812 using regt gp.

b. Adv guard of regt gp at PARK RIDGE.

c. Est close to NORTH MACLEAN 0127 by first light 6 May.

d. Air parity exists.

e. Anticipate del snail qty nerve agent from maj ally in early May.

(1) Gg^ Regt gp spt ty tk bn, anti armd coy and elm DAG.

(2) Str. My coy will face at least an inf bn and coy tks (13 MBTs).

(3) Loc. 18 km to north. Will take */2day to reach A Coy from NORTH MACLEAN. Regt arrive 071200.

(4) Recon. Div recon through area so en has good terrain brief. Regt recon in area now. Need to clear posn for own recon and own ptl prgm to begin on occupation. Own ptls need anti armd wpns to face BREMs.

(5) Indir FS. En arty In range now so CUP required ASAP and likely OPs ident and denied. Expect RAG to be in range between 070600 and 071200. This cfm CO (SIP requirement.

(6) Sequence of Atk/Probes. (Worst case) (a) Ptls from now. Need min

own sect str fitting ptls. (b) Arty (from MG) harassment

from now. (c) A Coy to receive probe atk

followed fcy atk fran line of march from 071200. All prep for battle mist be complete ty this time.

(d) Deliberate atk on Bn, possible through A Coy (check app in gnd) to commence from 071400. Need to have repair and replenishment facy between first and second atk.

EX SECRET

2A1-2

(e) A coy def area relative to Bn vital gnd Indicates that en will atk A Coy while he troves along axis of rd. Thus for encounter battle A Coy is en bn immediate Obj while Bn vital gnd is subsequent obj. Thus during this atk A Coy will need to destroy approx 500 men and 13 MKTs. Need to find adequate killing gnd to fit this requirement under gnd.

(7) Armd. Have two Carl Gustafs to kill 13 MBTs. Need Bn spt and contingency for rain of three sets of altn posn covering adequate killing gnd. These need to be dug in and complete with pre prepared ammo and anti-armd obs. Need to tie into Bn anti-armd plan.

(8) Air. Air parity means a requirement to appoint one air sentry for coy posn as long as he can cover whole posn. If wooded features preclude this, need more. Ident major air app and determine sentry posn in gnd.

(9) NBCD. Need facy for TQPP3 in posn in loc of all pits. Need NBCD sentry in each pi and at CHQ.

(10) Intention. Unlikely that regt gp will be spt by extra regt. Regt against Bde does not accord with odds favoured by en. Therefore can expect atk on narrow front with tks well fwd. He prefers night for deliberate atk so can expect him to atk night 7/8 or, more likely, on night 8/9 May. My proximity to 12 Bn may mean that A Coy is held while an atk on B Coy is pushed through isolating 12 Bn and improving relative combat power. My disposn mist allow max spt to B Coy during this phase of en atk while fighting holding atk. My battle will be highlighted ty encounter atk. Then my pri will be to spt rest of bn while holding my cwn.

EX SECRET

J23-013 APPENDIX 2 TO ANN FX A TO PAPT 2 OF

EXAMPLF OF WEIGHT SCOPING OF MACFINF PUN AND CARL C-USTAF 3T1 SITES IN TFF ASSESSMENT OF TASKS

Ser Description Type Section Position Number (a) (b) (c) (d)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32

1. Deny App A MC- X X X X X X X X X X X X X

Anti Armd X X X X X X

2. Deny App B KG x X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

Anti Armd X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

3. Deny App C MGx X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

Anti Armd X X X X X X X X X X X

4. Deny App D MG X X X X X X X X

Anti Armd X X X X X X

5. Direct FS to Band MG X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

D Coy and 12 Bn

6. Anti Armd Fire Anti X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

to Killing Gnd 1 Armd

7. Deny en use of rd. X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

8. Total Anti Armd 3 3 2 2 2 3 3 3 1 2 2 3 2 3 1 2 2 2 3 2 3 3 3 3 1

9. Total MG 4 4 4 3 4 3 3 4 2 3 4 3 2 5 4 4 3 2 2 2 4 4 3 3 3 3 4 3 3 4 2 2

Deductions from Analysis of Ground to Fire Tasks • 1. Pri 1 I*G Posn. 1,2,3,5,8,11,14,15,16,17,21,23,27,30,33,36 2. Prl 2 yG Posn. 4,6,7 ,12 ,18,24,25,26,28,29 ,34,35 3. Pri 1 Anti Armd Posn. 1 ,2,6,7 ,8,14,16,21 ,23,25,27,34,35 4. Pri 2 Anti Armd Posn. 3,4,5,11,12,18,19,20,22,36 Note: This example can be developed upon, eg a preferred approach could be given an extra weighting.

J23-014

ANNEX B TO PART 2 OF 3T1

FACTORS AND DEDUCTIONS FOR THE DEFENCE APPRECIATION

Note: The list given is not exhaustive and does not apply to every situation. Use it simply to trigger your thoughts for each section.

Factors Deductions (a) (b)

1. En^ From ex papers list: (1) Gp. En force threatening your posn in one up context (ie the regt

a. Gen sit. facing your bn posn). Fran this you extract what you will face in

b. Gp. str.

c. Loc. (2) Str. En force expected against you. Hew much inf, armd, arty etc.

d. Rate of adv. (3) Loc. What does en current loc mean

to you? Most of these questions will be dealt with below. For the moment simply work out when he will close on your posn.

e. Special equip: (4) Recon. What recon is in area and so what?

(1) Armd. (5) Indir FS. What indir FS do you

(2) Arty. face, vten will it be in range, what obsn does he have, and what

(3) NBCD. will you do about it?

(4) Air. (6) Sequence of Probes/Atk. From his doctrine wark out the worst case

f. Admin sit. sequence of the battle and what this means to your prep for and

g- Actions by doctrine. conduct of the defensive battle.

(7) Armd. How nuch armd has he got, how will he use it in the sequence developed above, and what will you do about it?

(8) Air. What is the threat? Where will it come from and what counter measures should you take?

List arty other special equipment oriented deductions as applicable (eg NBCD).

2B2-2 ANNEX B

(9)

See example of the above at Appendix 1 to Annex A.

2. Own. From ex papers list: (1)

a. Secial equip.

b. Anti arrad resources.

c. Def stores.

d. Indir FS.

e. Dir FS.

f. Requirement for flank coord gLven in orders.

Intention. Fran the foregoing what is the enemy's aim, how will he achieve it, (in the one up context) how does this effect me, and what must I do about it? Note this discussion is a prelude to the development of enemy courses. An analysis of approaches is necessary before enemy courses can be discussed in detail.

Against each of the factors discuss how these can be used for the achievement of the aim given the ex picture developed above, eg:

(a) C2 Sight and Tripod and requirement to spt distant unit and how this can be done.

(b) En MBTs to anti armd resources and so viiat.

(c) Capacity to lay obs in terms of def stores and time.

(d) Indir FS requirements, shortfalls and means to overcome this in gen terms in use of FPF, role of obs and SA fire, and mix of claymores.

(e) Dir FS facy from neighbouring units and now this can be coord and what effect can be expected. Will it still be aval during encounter and delib atk battles? So what?

(f) Coord requirements with specialist pi and flanks.

2B2-3 ANNEX B

3. Summary of Relative Str. list ratios of inf, armd and arty if possible. You may have to examine gnd to gain analysis of apps (frontages/capacity etc) before writing this paragraph. Ident task on each app in relative terms (eg 1 have 200 men and 3 MBTs to destroy on App D but have spt fire from all of D Coy, 6 x bn RCL and an M3 from B Coy to supplement ray fire. He can/cannot develop adequate combat ratios on this app. So what?

A. Gnd.

a. Gnd Gen. Write a paragraph on how the gnd impresses you as the comd who must achieve the aim.

b. Key Terrain (KT). (Mark in numbered (1) Vital Gnd (VG). Indicate which KT circles on an overlay.) is VG and why.

c. Apps. Using a map draw in app to bn VG (2) Analysis of Apps. which gp through your area. Then derive the app to your VG. Then show these (a) Assy Area, latter app on an overlay to an enlargement. This last step facy the (b) Route to FUP. analysis of apps.

(c) FUP/LD.

(d) Frontage/Capacity.

(e) Going (inf/armd, day/night).

(f) Ground covering.

i. Ghd/features outside bdry.

ii. KT.

(g) Natural Obs.

(h) Distances (length of apps, division of app into killing gnd, range of wpn into killing gnd, range and ability of en dir FS wpn to engage own gnd covering etc).

(i) Gen Assessment.

2B2-4 ANNEX B

5. Time and Space.

a. Time Now.

b. Time Occupy By.

c. Tine Def By.

d. Time En to Close on Posn.

e. Time for Bn Tasks.

f. Other Time Limitations.

g. Time for Coy Tasks so far deduced.

(3) Gnd Capacity. Divide KT into MG/sect posns and SRAAW posns. Show this cm an overlay to the enlargement. This overlay should also show apps to assist assessment of tasks.

(1) Time for battle procedure. Is it sufficient?

(2) Mjmber of sect hrs aval.

(3) Sect hrs remaining after deduction of bn and coy tasks and tp rest.

(4) What can be achieved in time remaining?

(5) Pri of work (sequence in which posn will be prep).

Note: Time and space is an on going staff check throughout the appreciation. Listing the key aspects in one place is difficult. It can be overcome by doing a 'gross error check' before assessment of tasks to establish if there is enough time for the prep of altn coy posns etc. Then after assessment of tasks deductions (3) to (5) can be fully developed. In arty case deduction (5) cannot be developed until after assessment of tasks.

6. Assessment of Tasks. There are twa areas of tasking to be assessed. One for the preparation and one for the conduct of the battle. Most of the former is derived from the latter and relates to the resource of time and so is covered in time and space. Some assessment of preparatory tasks may be relevant here. Primarily the assessment concerns the conduct of the battle.

a. Bn Tasks for Conduct of the Battle (from aim limitations eg prov dir FS to another coy)

b. Denial of Apps.

Deduced Task for Conduct of the Battle (eg coy standing ptl, NBCD sentries etc).

(1) Resource required (two down ie sect) and pri.

(2) m posns ) pri 1 ) pri 2

(3) SRAAW posns ) pri 3

(4) Obs requirement to chan/slcw.

(5) Resource required (twa down) and pri.

Note: See Appendix 2 to Annex A for a method of weight scoring MG/Sect and SRAAW posns.

2B2-5 ANNEX B

(6) Combination of sect and SRAAW posns which meets requirement and pri. Do this by pi 'goose eggs' around sect Iocs.

(7) Discussion of each pl and SRAAW posns.

7. En Courses. From the foregoing list a number (1) Effect. What effect does this of options open to the enemy. Describe these options course have on the identified pl in broad outline and state their likelihood. Which is and SRAAW posns? What shape do the the most probable course? obs plan options take.

(2) Effect of the Most Probable Course. Having determined the most probable course, hew do you now view the combined effect of all courses, ie what nust my own courses include?

J23-002

SERVICE WRITING

Security Classification Copy Number Page Number File Reference Title Written by/for Date/Time References Time Zone Sequence Place Names Upper Case Max Abbr Headings Underlined En Courses Lettered Own Courses Numbered Annexes Headed Distr List

AIM

Aim Occupy by Def by Other limitations

RELATIVE STRENGTH

En Gp/Str En Loc En Recon En Arty En Sequence Probes/Atk En Ik En Air En other Special Equip En Intention Own Special Equip Own Anti-armd Own Def Stores Indirect FS Direct FS Coord with flanks

ANNEX C 1 PART 2 Of 3T1

DEFENCE APPRECIATION CHECKLIST

GND OWN COURSES TACTICS

Grid Gen KT VG Assy Area Route to FUP FUP/LD Frontage/Capacity Gnd Covering Natural Obs Distances Gen Assessment App on Overlay Gnd Capacity on Overlay

TIME & SPACE

Time Now Time for battle procedure Occupy Bn Def By Deploy ptl Bn tasks times Pri of Work

ASSESSMENT TASKS

Bn Tasks Coy Tasks Denial of App Itoo Down Pri Tasks Pl Posn

EN COURSES

More than one Follow deductions Based on effect Aim/limitations covered Advantages Disadvantages Workable

OUTLINE PLAN

Mission Gen outline Gp Tasks Coord instr Follows from courses

OVERLAY

Ex Secret Heading Map Ref Copy No Annex Block 3 Grid Intersections Correct Colours Correct symbols IF Tasks loc Each Pl Loc CHQ Loc crew served wpn Loc and type of Obs Loc Standing ptl(s)

Tie in left and right Def VG Depth All round def Firepower Mutual spt Uses obs realistically Anti-armd def Security Concealment Control Connuni cations

More than one Likelihood Reflect Doctrine Effect Most probable

J20-020 JAN 87

PART 3

THE ATTACK APPRECIATION

IatroductIon

1. At the JSW, the attack appreciation is conducted at unit level and therefore concerns the clearance, destruction, capture or security of an enemy company size position. The scale of the enemy picture is thus reduced from that seen in the defence appreciation. Most of the points raised for the defence appreciation, however, remain valid. For example, ground is considered in a similar manner but from the reverse view point. The attack appreciation is concerned with key terrain as objectives (See Part 6 Glossary) rather than as defensive localities.

2. What is to follow is a check list for the attack appreciation. It is not exhaustive and should not be followed slavishly.

Aim

3. The alternatives for the statement for the aim for the attack could be:

a. to clear ;

b. to capture ;

c. to secure ; or

d. to destroy.

4. The aim here must be the one directed by the next senior commander and not what you believe should be done. The implications of other manoeuvre, time and space, and the overall plan have been considered by the next senior commander and, to enable the success of his more important mission, you must obey the directive as given. The difference between them must be understood. 'To clear' may be achieved simply by manoeuvre aad fire power and it may only be necessary to subsequently pass a force through the objective later to confirm that it has been cleared. 'To capture/secure' indicates the necessity to hold that piece of ground either by placing troops on the objective or on ground covering the enemy approaches to it. 'To destroy' involves the fixLng aad subsequent destruction of the enemy. The fixing could be done by either a cut-off force or by the Phase 1 assault force capturing a depth objective which will prevent the enemy withdrawing. The destruction would then be achieved by the subsequent assaulting forces. The definitions of these terms are given in the Glossary at Part 6.

3-2

Limitations

5. In contrast to the defence appreciation the attack proffers few limitations. Typical of those Imposed are:

a. ASAP ;

b. attack complete by ; or

c. exploit to


6. Timings are normal and if they are the only limitation they should be included in the statement of the aim (eg to clear MALFUNCTION JUNCTION by 121400K May).

Relative Strengths

7. If enemy and own troops are treated separately for convenience (and this may be the case) summarize the 'relative strengths' at the end. This summary may be more appropriate after an examination of ground when approach frontages and, therefore, more exact combat ratios are determined. Combat ratios should cover relative strengths in regard to infantry, armour, anti-armour and artillery. Annex B lists some of the factors, questions and type of deductions required. Broadly speaking look at the following areas:

a. With regard to the enemy:

(1) strength and location (this may be illustrated on an overlay) ,

(2) number and type of objectives (platoon, company or battalion size objectives),

(3) size of objectives and therefore size of fire unit required to neutralize,

(4) support,

(5) reserve,

(6) air,

(7) artificial obstacles, and

(8) reaction.

b. With regard to own forces:

(1) specialist sub-units (units) and equipment and their use,

3-3

(2) direct fire support assets,

(3) indirect fire units (See Part 6 Glossary for the definition and calculations of fire units),

(4) ratio of own to enemy and the means to maximize own combat power ratios, and

(5) administration situation.


Ground

8. This involves the following:

a. A statement of ground general.

b. Selection of key terrain features (see definition and description at Part 6 Glossary) and their numbering.

c. Selection of the vital ground (see definition at Part 6 Glossary).

d. Drawing in of approaches (see Part 6 Glossary) by:

(1) selection of assembly areas,

(2) selection of FUP,

(3) identification of obstacles constricting the assault between FUP and vital ground, and

(4) drawing In of routes to the FUP and the dimensions of the assault.

e. Completion of a tabular analysis of approaches.

f. Completion of an approach overlay which folds out next to the analysis of approaches showing:

(1) key terrain,

(2) vital ground,

(3) assembly area,

(4) routes to FUP,

(5) FUP,

(6) assault routes,

3-4

(7) objectives,

(8) killing ground if desired, and

(9) locations suitable for direct fire support if desired.

g. Completion of a summary of deductions in the body of the appreciation.

9. The detail for the above is shown at Annex B. Analysis of killing ground is useful if it develops deductions concerning the thwarting of the enemy's intention to kill you. You do this by examining counter-measures calculated against the killing ground dimensions (eg range of weapons etc). Thus the placing of tanks on a ridgeline to the enemy's front, out of range of his anti-armour weapons, may stop his use of ground covering that killing ground.

Assessment of Tasks

10. The analysis of approaches offers a list of costs; any preliminary operations (if required), objectives to be captured, objectives which must be targets, flanks which need protecting, and other tasks. Assessment of tasks is a simple staff check to assess requirements and priorities and then impose the availabilities and restrictions/limitations. It is based on the analysis of approaches. Thus it converts ground data into numerals for quantities and priorities. The assessment is best based on a logical progression of the complete assault from preliminary o perations through to reorganization.

11. Assessment of tasks can be prepared as follows: a' Part One. Assess tasks for each appD ach to the vital

ground by analysing the objectives that lie on that apprcsc'h. The resources required for each objective or group of objectives may vary between approaches usually because the shape of the ground will present different ground covering. If there are other objectives associated with the p<sition that do not lie on the approach under consideration detail them under other tasks for that approach. These tasks may result in preliminary or subsequent operations being undertaken before or after the main attack. The assessment should also include the tasks and locations for Limits of Exploitation and Reorganization.

b. Part Two. Having completed an assessment for each approach, a summary may be completed, by imposing the availabilities and restrictions/limitations. The requirements for other tasks must also be included here. In any event they must be considered in Courses. The summary should only apply fc> those approaches that require adjustments to tasks or resources.

Parts One and Two above are illustrated at Enclosure 2.

6-11

12. At the conclusion of assessment of tasks you should have the basis for own courses. The assessment should contain the statements that sufficient resources are or are not available. The body of the appreciation is to show any resource adjustments that may have to be made to make an approach workable. In short you will have concluded by specifying:

a. the need for any preliminary operatins, phases and where phase lines are to be located (if necessary);

b. the combination of approaches (if applicable) which overcome the resource deficiencies; and

c. the discounting of low priority tasks and the acceptance of the remainder as within resources and integral to courses open.

Time and Space

13. Unlike the defence appreciation, the time and space here follows each approach through to the vital ground. Thus it should be presented in a table showing:

a. time now;

b. time restrictions (if applicable from limitations);

c. time for battle procedure;

d. for each approach the time for movement to the FUP and therefore the earliest H hour;

e. for each phase on each approach the time:

(1) from LD to objective,

(2) for fight through, and

(3) for reorganisation; and

f. time for the taking of vital ground for each approach and a statement concerning the need in courses to allow for extra time for the mopping up of other objectives not covered by a particular approach.

14. The timings should be based on a commonsense application of the guidelines in the Aide-memoire. Note that calculations go to the vital ground only.

15. The time that the aim is achieved is important if a time restriction applies. This can only be achieved after a study of courses open. Otherwise approaches are treated as courses and this is a common and severe mistake. Each course should give an indication of the time that the aim is achieved by if the limitation ASAP applied. The aim is only achieved when all tasks have been completed. This may also mean when any subsequent (other tasks) operations are completed if such tasks relate to the completion of the aim.

6-11

Enemy Courses

16. Enemy courses are derived from doctrinal statements and deductions made under relative strengths and ground. The examination of ground will reveal his favoured killing ground, his dispositions to achieve his aim and his most likely withdrawal routes if applicable. Do not simply restate the doctrine (eg he will fight until I deploy and then withdraw) but detail how he will achieve the statement of doctrine.

17. Enemy courses are lettered and stated in broad outline. They should reflect the following criteria:

a. enemy doctrine;

b. more than one;

c. state likelihood;

d. state the effect this enemy course has on each of my approaches and the counters required; and

e. state the most probable course.

Own Courses 18. Own courses are based on the assessment of tasks and the effect of enemy courses. They are numbered using Roman numerals and must:

a. incorporate the aim and limitations;

b. be based on earlier deductions;

c. be achievable within resources;

d. take account of all the considerations for the attack (see Annex A);

e. be stated fully (by phase, objs captured, fire support, flank security, preliminary operations, subsequent operations, reorganization, etc);,

f. be detailed as a number of options (ie more than one course); and

g. detail advantages and disadvantages for each course including the time and space aspect (this may necessitate an extra time and space segment for each course).

(Note. The effects and likelihood of enemy courses should be countered in Own Courses. A statement must be made on how well (or poorly) each Course counters the likelihood and effects applicable to the Course).

6-11

19. Own courses may precede enemy courses (the side with the initiative may have his courses described first). Students may find this confusing because of the difficulties of incorporating effect. Students unfamiliar with the appreciation process are advised to keep it simple and examine enemy first.

20. Your best course is quite often the result of countering the disadvantages of a previous course. Thus II is better than I, and III better than II, and IV better than III, so IV becomes the chosen course. This may not always be the case but, obviously, disadvantages need to be minimised.

Outline Plan

21. The conventions for the outline plan are given in detail at paragraph 6 of Annex C to Part 1. The sequence for the presentation of an outline plan brief is given at Appendix 1 to Annex C to Part 1.

22. As the outline plan is simply a detailed statement of your best course it is implicit that it is tactically sound (ie it accords with the considerations of the attack at Annex A).

Outline Plan Overlay

23. The conventions for the outline plan overlay are listed at Paragraph 3 of Annex B to Part 1. Check the requirements of the problem and ensure that all the detail required is shown. If something (eg a boundary) is requested but for some good reason it is not applicable, explain that on your overlay. Some of the more usual items shown on an outline plan overlay are:

a. assembly area; b. routes from the assembly area to the FUP; c. FUP and LD for each phase; d. objectives; e. axis; f. boundaries (if applicable, this relates to the boundary

between assaulting sub-units and between sub-units in reorganisation locations);

g. fire support tasks; h. limits of exploitation; i. reorganisation locations for all manoeuvre elements; j. direct fire support locations; and k. any other requirements related the tactical problem.

3-8

24. On completion of this, check your problem and ensure that all that is required has been covered. If you need to use unauthorised symbols, a legend must be included. Above all, the overlay must accurately depict the best course.

Re-Appreciation

25. For formal appreciations at higher levels the task may have to be re-appreciated. Such an appreciation may form the basis of a contingency plan.

Revision

26. Throughout the appreciation and at the end check your work against the tactical considerations at Annex B and the appreciation check list at Annex D.

Annexes: A. Considerations for the Attack

B. Factor and Deduction Guide for the Attack Appreciation

C. Attack Appreciation Check List

3A-1

J20-022

ANNEX A TO PART 3 TO 3T1

CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE ATTACK

1. Considerations for the attack should be evident in all the deductions which lead to viable courses open. It may be that some are discounted by some sound reasoning. If so, the reasoning must be given. Some notes on each consideration are as follows:

a. Concent ration.

(1) Was superior combat power concentrated at each point of the assault?

(2) Was at least a ratio of three to one allocated for the capture of each objective?

b. Penetration. Was the attack organized in depth and was it given limits of exploitation past the position?

c. Firepowe r.

Was the fire plan considered? Did it provide depth and flexibility. Was it used on likely enemy withdrawal routes?

Was each piece of ground covering allocated as a target?

Was a target indicated to cover the reorganization?

If allocated, were tanks used in the assault or to provide fire support? Were they used realistically?

Was CAIRS used realistically?

Was the DS field battery superimposed to provide for emergency or unexpected targets?

Was direct fire support in a position to give optimum effective fire?

d. Secure FUP/LD. Were elements provided to secure the FUP and LD for each phase? Were FUPs secured as a firm base in each case?

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

(7)

2 A-2 ANNEX A

e. Secure Flanks. Was part of the force tasked to secure the flanks, or at least was flank security considered? Did the flank security have sufficient combat power to counter the likely threat? Did the flank security force have appropriate command, control and communications?

f. Maintenance of the Momentum.

(1) Was phasing kept to an absolute minimum?

(2) Was the assaulting force well grouped? •

(3) Was a reserve/depth allocated for each phase?

g. Retention of the Initiative. Was flexibility built into the plan (eg superimposed fire units) in order to achieve tactical advantage throughout the attack?

h. Reorganization. In so far as it is possible to decide, does the course provide for a rapid reorganization, all round defence and orientation towards the most likely threat?

i. Enemy Reserve. Does the course recognise the threat of a DAG fire mission on the enemy position once the withdrawal had been effected?

j. Surprise. Does the plan incorporate any form of deception or surprise to assist the attack? If surprise was not thought possible, does the course balance this with some other resource, eg preparatory fire?

k. Aim. Does the plan achieve the aim of the appreciation and cater for any 1 imitations that may have been imposed?

3B-1 ANNEX B

J23-016

ANNEX B TO PART 3 OF 3T1

FACTOR AND DEDUCTION GUIDE FOR THE ATTACK APPRECIATION

Note: The List given below Is not exhaustive and the headings offered do not apply to every situation, are offered simply to trigger thought process on each factor.

They

Factor Deduction (a) (b)

1. En. From ex papers list:

a. Gen sit.

b. loc and state of def.

c. Wpiis ident.

d. Posn (obj) size (for deductions on tgt size and fire unit required).

e. Air sit.

f. Spt and admin sit.

g. Intent/reaction ty narrative and by doctrine.

(1) Str and Loc. From info given ident size of posn (eg coy gp), what is in it, what extra equip might be incl which so far has not been shown, and where squad size posn and hy wpn rut shown might be loc.

(2) Obj. Ident number and loc of two down size objs (at coy level, squad or hy wpn posns, at In level, pi posns). Deductions here may have to be completed under gnd when key terrain are ident.

(3) Size of Obj. Determine size of objs and therefore sizes of fire units required to cover them.

(4) Spt. Determine what spt the en posn will get in term of indir and dir FS (if applicable) and eff on you. (Eg DAG IF on posa to harrass your reorg). Ident possible OP.

(5) Res. Will en use a res for counter atk? If so what should you do?

(6) Air. How does en air eff you (if applicable) and what should you do about it?

(7) Artificial 0b6. How has he used artificial obs, for what purpose and what can you do to defeat his aim in obs deploynent?

2 A-2 ANNEX A

(8) Reaction. By doctrine and fcy his disposn and state of def, what is his reaction to ny atk going to be? (Don't develop courses but the raw data upon which en courses can be developed and by which app and combat power can be analysed.)

2. Own. From ex papers list:

a. Specialist sutr-units (units) and equip.

b. Dir FS assets.

c. Indir FS units.

d. Admin sit.

(1) Specialist Units and Equip. In this sit how can I use atch elm to best advantage? Don't just list characteristics from a book but rather how atch elm develop maroeuvre elm, vrtiat anno types should be used on obj. In short, work out how atch elm can max the combat power ratio in this sit given the number and type of obj.

(2) Dir FS. How many tgts of obj size can you eqgage sinultaneously with dir fire? How does this eff the aslt when infir fire lifts?

(3) Indir FS. Given tgt size what is min fire unit size. Therefore how many fire units do you have. After aloe of res to be superimposed (best if you use DS Bty) how many tgts can you neutralize at one time. Given this and the lumber of objs, can you neutralize all objs simultaneously? If so, so what? If no, S) what?

(4) Ratios. Given lumber of objs and number of manoevre elms, what is the ratio of one to the other. If it is three to one in your favour, so what.? If not, so what? Remember the need to include the need for depth. Thus like your fire units, the number of manoeuvre elms aval is usually one less. Relate the shortfalls to en intent. If the en intends to stay and fight (or if he might intend this) you may have to consider phasing. (At company level try to avoid phasing).

(5) Admin. What administrative prep is necessary? Amno, casevac, special equip etc. Normally, these aspects, if routine, are covered by SOP. Only concern yourself with the unusual or special requirements for this atk.

2 A-3 ANNEX A

3. Siimmary of" Relative Str. Complete au overview of both sects to tie together the 'relative' aspects so Inr not covered. Thus yju might ojiiceru yourself with such matters as:

a. type of arty and nor araro required (delay or air burst)';

b. need for specialist spt (eg use of tks in aslt rather than FS, or use of par pi to clear obs, or role of anti armd as flark seurity etc);

c. hjw APCs can be used after dissembarkat I.011 of Cps;

d. best di.r or atk;

e. ni U' o r day

f. prelim ops required;

g. out off (if aim is to destroy);

h. requirenent to phase (remembering need to mminize phasing);

i. where relative to en pi posn it vwuld be best to reorg given problems of en reaction in terms of arty and counter atk;

j. what flanks need no protection given en and own loc;

k. what eff constraints given in limitations have on your development of combat power (eg if aim b clear posn ASAP it is not feasible to ergage in lergthy nine cleariqg op);

I. what non guaranteed FS can be tasked ty you (eg mdm bty in spt to you but at pri call to DAIO);

in. hjw the safety distance problems presented by CAIRS arty and nor can be overcome; and

II. subsequent ops required.

4. Gild.

a. Grid Gen. Write a paragraph on how the gnd impresses you as the comd who must achieve the aim.

b. Key Terrain (KT). (1) Vital Gnd (VG). Deduce VG from KT and state why the VG, if taken, wjuld deny

(See Part 6 Glossary for definition of the en the achievement of his aim and KT and mark these 011 an overlay.) therefore the success of yours.

(2) Obj. If not completed already in relative str, use your KT and VG to cfm objs to be captured/cleared. Note all objs are KT but not all KT are objs.

(3) App. Deduce apps by ident

(a) your assy area,

(b) your FUP,

(c) route to FUP,

2 A-4 ANNEX A

Note: Analysis of Apps can be completed in table form with the headings (4) (a) to (m) listed on the left hand side of the page. The ranainder of the page is ruled into columns representing apps that you are considering. The data within the headings ( (4) (a) to (m)) is then answered.

(d) natural obs between EUP and VG,

(e) LD, and

(f) aslt route to VG.

Complete the above on an overlay.

(4) Analysis of Apps. In the text or on an annex analyse the following aspects of each app. Note that the app overlay must fold out next to this analysis:

(a) Assy Area. If an assy area is required, there may be only one for all apps. If so, analyse this separately examining such aspects as:

i. time taken for units to get to it,

ii. cover from view and fire,

iii. se urity, and

iv. routes in for admin aspects if required.

(b) Route to FUP.

i. Cover from view and fire.

ii. Time required to nove from assy area to FUP.

iii. Tasks ident eg par tial neutralization of en posn etc during nov, route security.

(c) PUP.

1. Capacity.

ii. Dead Gnd.

iii. Security.

iv. Defilade.

v. Proximity to ID.

3B-5 ANNEX B

(d) LP.

i. Angle to aslt.

ii. Security.

iii. Natural landmark or need to mark.

(e) Going.

i. By day/night inf.

ii. By day/night armd.

iii. Major natural obs.

iv. Cover aval.

(f) Frontage/Capacity.

i. Width of app.

ii. Capacity for inf/tk.

iii. Spacing aval for inf and adequacy of this in given terrain.

(g) Gnd Covering.

i. Objs which cover app.

ii. Other KT which cover app.

iii. Other features which are not KT or objs which cover app (eg OP posn not ident as KT).

iv. How gnd covering effs aslt eg sequence of gnd covering influencing aslt given dead gnd along the way and ranges of en wpns.

v. Therefore where are the en killing gnds on this app? Does this app encompass the main en killing gnd.

2 A-6 ANNEX A

(h) Objs Which Must be Captured. This is dir flow on from grid covering. Note that some objs not on app may have to be captured if that app is used because of proximity or type of fire that they can produce. Suggest whether these can be incorporated into an adjusted axis of aslt in a course or if a separate op (ie preliminary op) or phase is necessary before this app is used. Note from capacity of app what combat power can be developed to aslt objs on the app and whether or not this is sufficient for three to one ratio. If not suggest ways of overcoming the problem (eg phasing). If this is not possible suggest that app is perhaps not usable.

(i) Obj/KT Which Must be Tgt. This is dir flow on from deductions on gnd covering.

(j) Eff on FS.

i. Indir FS. Tgt to fire unit ratio and what can be done to overcome short falls eg use of dir fire, phasing etc.

ii. Dir FS. Bill for indir FS to engage tgts of opportunity when indir FS lifts from obj being aslt and tgts not being engaged by indir FS. What are the shortfalls and what can be done about them? Where can dir FS elms be placed to meet requirement?

(k) Length of Aslt airi Fight Through. List distances and associated timings necessary to complete each. List rate of advance to stow basis of your cab illations. Use these figures later in time and space.

(1) Flank Security. What flaik security is necessary and what pri do you put on these tasks. Use this info latar in assessma t of tasks.

2 A-7 ANNEX A

(m) Gen Assessment. Is tlie app workable in terms of combat p>wer which can be developed? What are the advantages and disadvantages?

c. Summary of Deductions from Apps. Where is en main killing gnd? Which is the best app? What ar the major difficulties listed in apps? Can they be overcome by a combination of apps. Should an app be discounted? Be very careful in discarding apps early as later considerations could redeem a app which is marginal at this stage. Note that apps are not courses but are the means to generat the detail necessary for the developma t of own courses. From the overall view of apps and killin grids does 39 ur impression of en intention change or develop further in detail? Do you vent to ad some points on relative str? If a write a a w paragraph.

5. Assessment of Tasks. Mich of the gnd work has been done for this in the analysis of apps.

Objs or gp of objs by app requiring clearance/capture.

(1) Resources required and priority for fol tasks:

their

(a) Clear obj, (b) Depth, (c) Res, (d) Secure FUP/Firm Base, (e) Flank security, (f) Indir FS, (g) Dir FS, and (h) Other tasks.

(Ncte that the info for the above is taken from deductions in analysis of app. If special equip/unit requirements are ident add these to the list.)

(2) Summary of resources required for each app.

(3) Application of the budget o f own orbat and development of compromises to meet combat power requirements incl:

(a) phasing,

(b) mix of app, and

(c) push tbrcugh depth elm if en withdraws.

This lays the basis of own courses. See Annex A for an example of a possible layout for assessment of tasks.

2 A-8 ANNEX A

6. Time and Space.

a. Time Now

b. Battle procedure time from MLW One 6.2.

c. Time restrictions from aim limitations. (1) Is the battle procedure time sufficient given problems such as getting units to disengage?

(2) Timings for each app for the following:

(a) mov to PTJP,

(b) time in FUP,

(c) aslt, ) ) (1)

(d) fight through, and ) )

(e) reorg (2). )

(3) App with earliest H Hr.

(4) App with latest H Hr. (5) If time for completion of atk is

given, what is time span for H Hr. For this you work out the earliest H Hr and then working bade from completion time, calculate latest H Hr.

d. Summary of tine and space if applicable. Cover such aspects as the app with the earliest H Hr ma not cover the bulk of the obj therefore aim complete time may be earlier on another app etc.

Notes. (1) In the assessment of tasks the need to phase may have been ident on one or more apps. If so thes three elm will need repetition for each phase.

(2) There are two timings for this in MLW One.6.2. One is for reorg between phasing and the other i final reorg. Final reorg time is difficult to apply here because subsequent tasks have to be time in courses, If one is working bade frcm a completion time for latest H Hr it can be used.

7. En Courses. From the foregoing list a number (1) Eff. What eff does this course of options open to the en for the achievement of his have on the use of each app. What aim. Describe these options in broad outline and other counter measures should you state their likelihood, effect and which option is the employ in your Courses. Can apps most probable. be combined or modified to counter

en eff.

3B-9

8. Cton Courses. List all possible courses that will attain the aim, and that are within our capability, bearing in mind the counter measures you have considered under 'effect' during 'enemy courses'. Where a course exists, which is a combination of two or more of the previously examined courses, it becomes another course. It must be examined separately on its cwn merits.

9. Following the description of the course, list the advantages and disadvantages of each.

10. Best Course. Selecting the best course is the culmination of the appreciation. A careful comparison of each course against the other leads to the seletion of the best course ie that course which is most likely to defeat the enemy's plan.

3C-1

J23-004

SERVICE WRITING Security Classification Copy Number Page Number File Reference Title Written by Written for Date/Time References Time Zone Sequence Place names in upper Abbreviations Headitigs Underlined En courses lettered Own courses numbered Anrexes headed Distribution list Legible Script

AIM Aim Limitation (s)

RELATIVE STR En Str/Loc Obj Obj size Spt Res Air Artificial obs Reaction Own Special equip/units Dir FS Indir FS Ratios AdmLn Summary

ANNEX C TO PART 3 OF 3T1

ATTACK APPRECIATION CHECKLIST

case

GROUND Gnd Gen Key terrain Vital gnd Obj App Assy area Route to FUP FUP LD Goitig Frontage/Capacity Gnd covering Obj to be captured Obj/KT/tgt Effect of FS Length of aslt fight through Flark security Gen assessment App on Overlay Summary

ASSESSMENT TASKS By app/obj Clear obj Secure FUP/LD/Firm Base Depth Res Flank Security Fire Spt PI against squad Tk tasked

TIME & SPACE Time Now Battle Procedure M>ve to FUP Earliest H Hr Latest H Hr (if applicable) LD to obj(s) Fight through Time VG taken Reorg Time aim complete Limitation to Aim

EN COURSES Fully described Likelihood Effect on each app Most Probable Reflects doctrine

OWN COURSES Fblly described Time aim complete Advantage Disadvantage Counters effects? Aim achieved Achievable

OUTLINE PLAN Mission Gen Outline Gp Tasks Coord Instr Follows from Courses

OVERLAY Ex Secret Heading Map Ref Copy No Annex Block Three Grid intersection pts Correct colours Correct symbols Neat Assy area FUP AD Route to Assy Area FUP Obj Axis/Axes Bdry Limit exploitation Reorg loc Other req from green

TACTICS Concentration Penetration Firepower Firm Bases Secure LD Secure Flanks Maint of Mjnentum Retention Initiative Rapid Reorg En Res Surprise

.123-017

PART 4

THE ADVANCE APPRECIATION

Notes on the factors to be considered for an advance appreciation are listed below.

1.

AIM

Selection of Aim

JAN 87

a. What is my fundamental task? eg Adv? Secure? Insert Blocks?

b. What limitations are there? eg Secure? Atk?

c. What are the implications of this on my considerations? State as deductions.

Factors Deductions Typical Questions (a) (b) (c)

2. Preliminary Time and Space Kate of adv required. Major time limitations? Any given time restrictions. Mobility requirements. Maint of momentum?

Possible influence en gp. Earliest/latest Start Time.

3. Relative Str.

a. En.

(1) Gen sit.

(2) Likely intentions.

(3) Spt arms: Armd, Arty Engr.

(4) Air.

(5) Admin sit.

(6) Insurgent threat.

Possible en delay posn.

Likely en gp. Gen order of march. Eg need for firepower fwd. Degree of acceptable risk. Degree of search and rate of adv.

Where is he?

What is tie? What is he likely to do? Is there any threat frcm insurgents?

6-11


b. Own Tp

(1) Present Gp. Gen gp for adv gd, flk gd and order of march.

Are changes needed in my gp?

(2) Armd, Arty, Engr Acceptable risk Capacity to:

What is the ideal composition of the components of my force.

(3) Air sit. a. Recon What have I got on my flanks?

(4) Admin sit. c. Interdict Arty gp?

(5) Flanking forces.

(6) Special equip

Other

eg Civilians, refugees

4. Gnd.

a. Gen. Major diaracteristics incl obsn, cover, potential obstacles, dominant features etc.

b. Final Obj(s)

c. Use more than one route -(forces and fire spt aval).

Need for flank, security.

Employment TC resources.

Need to ensure clearance of route(s)

Effect on conduct of task: mobility, rate of adv restrictions on mov etc.

Can I advance on a wide front?

Can I out-manoeuvre the en?

How can I reduce the problem?

Methods of control?

How can I best use the ground ava

Number of possible routes to obj(s) Hew many routes are aval?

Assessment Consideration SP. LD

Distance/Time

Going-Tracked Wh Inf

Obs Critical Pts Objs on Route Bounds Security Gun Areas etc

Routes (Approaches). To aid consideration use a trace shewing proposed routes and other detail as required. It is suggested that a table as follows be used in conjunction with the trace:

Are routes suitable? What is the distance to be covered? What natural obs are there any where? Where are the natural def features? Are there critical points that effect my move? Where is the en on route?

Route 1 Route 2 Route 3 Etc

etc etc etc Note: Make assessments in note form.

Viable routes in time frame. Security req. Gp req of particular routes, Eg bridging req, wh or tracked etc. Con req: Comms

4-3


d. Summary of Routes. (If Required)

5. Time and Space

a. It is suggested that a table as follows be used:

Factor Earliest H hr

Route 1 Route 2 Route 3 etc

0600 hrs Time Now Time for mounting - Deployment - Battle Procedure - ftov to Assy Area/FUP 4 hrs - Time in Assy Area/EUP - Mov time to SP/LD Any other pre H hr factor 1000 hrs

Therefore Earliest H hr 1000 hrs

Latest H hr Time by which obj mist be secure lime to secure Mov time for (rate) .. Allowance for action en route: Coy atk Pl atk etc

Aiiy other post H hr factor

1700 hrs 30 1630 hrs 4 hr 1230 hrs

Therefore Latest H hr 1230 hrs

Viable routes Flexibility H hr (from earliest/latest H hr) Req for ni mov.

Any changes from Preliminary Time and Space?

Hew much time mist I allow at obj if I must secure it?

How much time should I allow for possible en action en route?

Mounting times?

Are there any other time considerations? eg preparation of eqpt, mov restrictions due to refugee? Mov of guns or piquets?

Can I achieve ny aim in the time frame? Are all routes viable? Mjst I mov by day and ni? Can I adjust my timing on any route?

6-11

Factors Deductions Typical Questions ~ (a) (b) (c)

6. Assessment of Tasks.

a. Note. Assessment of tasks is NOT an attempt to neatly balance the forces aval to you between routes. It is a statement of the resources that you vrould like to employ on each route - it would be normal to find that to use all routes aval you would need nuch more than your total force.

b. From your assessment you should be presented with the basis for your later consideration of Courses Open, eg How many routes are viable.

c. It is suggested that a table as follows be used:

Task (as ~req) Route 1 Route 2 Route 3 etc

Covering Tps

Adv Gd - Van Gd

- Main Gd

Flank Gd

Rear Gd

Main Body

Special Tasks

COURSES OPEN

Own Courses.

a. Course 1. To

(1) Advantages.

(2) Disadvantages.

b. Course 2. To etc

En Courses.

a. Course A. To

(1) Likelihood.

(2) Effect (on me)

b. Course B. To etc

Can I obtain benefit by combining any of these courses. Thus making a further course? eg day or ni? Foot or mounted? etc.

What effect does this course have on me? Is it really likely that he would do this? What most I do to counter this course of action?

J23-018 JAN 87

PART 5

THE APPRECIATION GUIDE FOR THE WITHDRAWAL

1. Selection of Aim.

a. What is ny fundamental task?

b. Wliat limitations are there? eg Denial Time?

c. What are the implications of this on ny considerations? State as deductions.


2. lYelimnary Time and Space.

a. Start time and completion. Withdrawal will/will not be under En rate of adv unopposed? pressure. En EEA ny loc?

b. Earliest ETA en. Friendly force req to achieve clean Denial Tine? break (if under pressure). What do I need to achieve a clean

break?

3. Relative Strengths.

a. En. Direction of en threat and type, of Where is he? atk.

(1) Gen sit (front and En capability within time frame. What is he? flanks). Probable degree of en pressure at

denial time. What is his aim? (2) Likely intentions. Forces req.

Need for one or more stabilising What is his likely reaction? (3) Spt Arms; Armd/arty and/or intmed posn.

engr. Degree of acceptable risk. What is his ability to penetrate, Gen security req behind ny posn: envelop, infiltrate and follow up?

(4) Air. RV's, mounting areas etc. Hew does this effect ny security req?

What is his air capability? (6) Insurgent threat.

5-2

Factors Factors Deductions Typical Questions (a) •(b) (c)

b. Own Tp.

(1) Condition and . present Str required in present posn and gp of units. intmed posn.

Acceptable risk.

(2) Armd.

(3) Arty.

(4) Engr.

(5) Air.

(6) Tpt.

Ability to meet en threat(s). Protection of routes RV and 'soft' areas eg gun area.

Spt required. Mov/Deployment of guns. Protection of gun areas.

Requirement to meet en threat. Pri of tasks. Preliminary and/or res dml required.

Degree of spt (CAIRS and tpt). Flank survl.

Gp to units/sub-units.

What have I got? How can I make the best use of my resources?

Do I have superior mobility compared to the en? What armd should be withdrawn early? How can I best use ny armd? What support is required at:

(1) main posn, and (2) intmed posn(s).

From where can these loc be spt? When should guns redeploy?

What is the requirement for route denial? What prep is requird for dml? Is a dml gd req? What prep is nee in new posn(s)?

How can I best use the air aval to me?

Any limitations on use of tpt? How can I best use the resources allotted to me?

(7) Admin sit.

(8) Flanking forces.

(9) Special equip.

Mov of ech and HQ.

Need for flank security.

What requirements are there for security?

6-11


4. Other

eg Civilians, refugees Employment TC resources. How can I reduce the problem? Need to ensure clearance of route. Method of control?

Effect cxi security?

5. Gnd.

a. Gen, (if required) Effect on conduct of task, mobility, How can I best use the ground aval? rates of mov, restrictions on tnov

Major characteristics incl etc. obsn, cover, potential obstacles, dominant features etc.

b. Location of New Posn for Routes Main Body. RV/mounting areas and requirements

for security. Number of possible routes.

How many routes are aval?

Routes. To aid consideration use a trace showing proposed routes and other detail as required. It is suggested that a table as follows be used in conjunction with the trace:

Consideration Assessment Route 1 Route 2 Route 3 Etc

Check Pt

KV

Stabilising Posn Intmed Posn

etc etc etc

Mounting Areas

Critical pt Distance/Time Going - Tracked

Wh Inf

Day/Ni Obs Bounds Report Lines Gun Areas etc

Note: Make assessments in note form

Security req. Loc of security forces. Gp req for routes eg bridgeing, wh or tracked etc. Preliminary deployment of security forces incl covering force. Stabilizing posn(s) loc. . Preparation/protection of intmed posn. Req to hold critical pt. Protection and/or preparation for dml of obs and critical pt. Day and/or ni mov. Crossing of obs/critical pt.

Likely en app? Possible intmed/staWIlzing posn(s)? Possible en outflanking routes? Routes, check pt, RVs, mounting areas? Are there any critical points? Going, obstacles? Effect of en arty and air threat? What cover is there? Have I been given intmed and/ or stabilizing posn? Do I need them? Where?

5-4


Order of mov from posn. Protection mor, guns. Viable routes in time frame: Con req: Phases Mov HQ Mov ech Comms

What are ny security req? Where are dml req?

When should deployment of security forces take place?

6. Summary of Routes. (if required)

7. Time and Space. Timings for:

a. Time now a. Moves of sevurity forces. Time to hold in present posn?

b. Earliest ETTA en b. Moves of recon parties and How soon can rear recon parties and rear parties. unessentials leave?

c. Posn denied until c. Thinning out.

d. No wdr before (excl d. Time to abandon (if not How long do I have in which to recon parties) fact). prepare obs dml etc?

e. Thinning out begins e. Timings for ptl activity. How many obs, dml can I prepare? Which are most important?

f. Posn abandoned by Fire plan. IF, air etc.

g. All tp clear Priority of work, of line Eqpt denial req.

by

h. Others as req eg time for mov to RV, embussing areas, new main posn, prepare obs etc.

Can I wdr all my eqpt?

When can I destroy eqpt and stores?

5-5


8. Assessment of Tasks. What would 1 like to do to deny this posn to the en?

a. Note. Assessment of tasks is NOT an attempt to neatly balance the forces aval to you. It is a arrangement of the resources What itust I do to maintain my that yoiu would like to employ cm each task. security?

b. From this assessment you should be presented with the basis for What priority do I place on these your later consideration of Courses Open. tasks in relation to each other?

c. It is suggested that a table as follows could be used: Can any of these tasks be carried out . concurrently or ty the same sub unit.

Task Resources Req Pri Remarks

Covering Force

Patrols

Coy, Tp Tk

2P1

Flank Guards, Rear Gi etc

Intmed Posn

Stabilizing Posn etc

COURSES OPEN

9. En courses.

a. Course A. To

(1) Likelihood.

(2) Effect (on ne)

b. Course B. To etc

10. En Most Probable Course. I consider that the en is likely to follow his Course because

What effect does this course have on me? Is it really likely that he would do this? What mist I do to counter this course of action?

6-11

11. Own Courses.

a. Course 1. To

(1) Advantages.

(2) Disadvantages.

b. Course 2. To etc

12. Selection of Own Best Course. I will adopt my Course as

PLAN

13. Mission.

14. Execution.

a. Gen Outline etc

15. Administration and logistics ) ) when required

16. Conn and and Signal )

Can I obtain benefit by combining any of these courses? Thus making a futher course? Day or ni? Foot or mounted? etc?

J19-009 JAN 87

PART 6

GLOSSARY OF TACTICAL TERMS

1. This glossary has been compiled to help the JSC student to be more precise in his use of tactical terms in appreciations, TEWTs and syndicate discussions.

2. What is to follow is not designed to replace existing sources of definitions but rather expand upon them or state them in terms relevant to the unit and sub-unit appreciation. It is useful to compare the definitions given with those in the glossary in JSP (AS) 101, the MLW series and those in the Concise Oxford Dictionary. The reader is warned that sometimes the choice of words and, in places, whole definitions, have no official authority.

Advance

3. The advance is an offensive operation designed to close with an enemy force and engage him in decisive combat under conditions that favour the advancing force.

a. Advance to Contact. Contact has been lost or not yet made. The emphasis will be on wide reconnaissance with the main force uncommitted but ready for action.

b. Advance in Contact. Contact has been made with enemy covering troops, but the advance continues. At this stage advance and attack may be interwoven as the momentum is maintained.

c. The Pursuit. The advance continues in contact against an enemy who has lost the initiative and is withdrawing off balance. Contact must be maintained and risks will be taken to hurry relentlessly and turn the pursuit into a rout.

Aim

4. The aim is derived from the task given by higher authority. It is a positive and vigorous statement of the given task. It identifies exactly what has to be brought about. It is usually followed by limitations. There can only be one aim for any task. This aspect is further treated in Parts 2 to 5.

6-2

Ail-Round Defence

5. Although defended localities may be sited primarily against attack from a particular direction the defender must be capable of repelling attack from any direction. Given the opportunity, the enemy will choose to attack a position from what he considers to be the weakest side. Commanders must be fully prepared therefore to fight when outflanked or attacked from any direction. During chemical operations there must be continuous awareness of the danger from the upwind direction.

Alternate Position

6. See 'positions'.

Approaches

7. An approach to the vital ground, be it occupied or defended by the enemy or ourselves, begins at the assembly area and ends on the vital ground. Thus in the analysis of an approach one examines:

a. the assembly area,

b. the route to the FUP,

c. the FUP and LD, and

d. the ground used in of the assault.

8. The selection of assembly areas and routes to the FUP, FUP and LD should be based on the considerations shown in this glossary and MLW Three 2.2 - Musorian Armed Forces, 1980. Having established an LD examine the ground between it and the vital ground. The frontage available to the assault force will be determined:

a. by the obstacles identified; or

b. if there are no constricting obstacles, the width of the defended position; or

c. the width of the LD itself.

9. Having worked out the frontage, draw two parallel lines from the LD to a point short of the vital ground and then bring them to a point on the vital ground. This is an artificial exercise designed to allow scientific measurement of an assault route which all too often does not bend to science. The measurements are discussed in Parts 2 and 3 under the analysis of approaches and are designed to allow you to determine how you can maximise your combat power on that axis.

6-11

Arc of PI re

10. An arc of fire is described by the boundaries of an area a weapon is required to fire into. It is rarely the maximum range of the weapon as this is normally reduced by the shape of the ground and obstacles.

The area inside the arc of fire onto which both direct and indirect fire can be brought to bear ^s called the Field of Fire.

Assembly Area

11. The Assembly Area is where final administrative preparations or regrouping takes place before an attack. It should be:

a. Free from enemy ground observation.

b. Concealed from enemy visual air reconnaissance.

c. Easily accessible. \

d. If possible, out of range of enemy mortars.

Note: When examining enemy assembly areas check MLW Three 2.2 -Musorian Armed Forces, 1980, paragraph 979, 981 b(l), Figure 9-12 and 9-13.

6-4

Attack

12. There are two types of attack:

a. The Quick Attack. This is a rapidly mounted assault to take advantage of an unprepared, and weak, enemy position.

b. The Deliberate Attack. This is an attack against well prepared and organized defences. It involves careful and detailed planning, and the full co-ordination of all available resources.

The term infiltration refers to a penetration action which inserts forces either deep into enemy rear area to threaten communications and attack depth positions, or with the more limited objective of disrupting his forward defences.

Axis

13. An axis is a general line astride which a formation, unit or sub-unit moves. The leading formation, unit or sub-unit is not responsible for clearing the axis unless ordered to do so. The plural of axis is axes.

Battle Group

14. A battle group is a tactical grouping of combat arms elements based on the HQ of an armoured regiment or a mechanized infantry battalion.

Bound (Advance)

15. A bound is a feature of tactical significance on or astride the axis which could be held defensively if the neied arose. At formation level a bound may be given a nickname and used as a control feature. In this case movement from bound to bound will only be with the permission of the controlling HQ. (See 'report line and tactical bound').

Capture

16. See 'task verbs'.

Counter-attack

17. A counter-attack is an action against an attacking force to regain lost ground or to destroy an enemy. Counter-attacks will either be local or deliberate. Local counter-attacks must be launched within a battalion's own resources to catch the enemy off balance before he has had time to consolidate a gain. A handful of determined men can often

6-11

restore the situation with little loss. A deliberate counter-attack will be mounted by a formation reserve to regain ground against limited objectives. Since it is likely to prove time-consuming and expensive in terms of men and materiel, a deliberate counter-attack should only be mounted when the ground to be recovered is vital to the defensive position. All available fire support and close air support will be allocated to this attack, which cannot be launched at will. It is a large usually pre-planned concentration of force and the decision to execute must be taken early enough for last minute planning and deployment to take place. See also vital ground.

Counter-penetration

18. Counter-penetration is a move to block incursion into a defended area. Counter-penetration tasks will be planned before the battle is joined and positions will be reconnoitred and, if possible, prepared. Armed helicopters may be most suitable for this task. Timing is critical. The counter-penetration force must be steady in position before the arrival of the enemy. Fire support should also be pre-planned.

Covering Force

19. The term covering force is used to describe a force operating forward of the main force for the purpose of intercepting, engaging, delaying, disorganizing and deceiving the enemy force before he can attack the force covered.

20. A covering force battle is essentially a battle of movement and there will seldom be time or the need to prepare elaborate defensive positions. The commander is not expected to hold ground at all costs, but to give way before a superior enemy; in order to delay him again from another position. In order to achieve this, delaying positions must be selected which offer good fields of view and from which fire can be brought to bear on the enemy at long ranges. Enemy reconnaissance and probing attacks must be held off and time-wasting preparation for a deliberate attack forced upon him.

21. A covering force must avoid becoming involved in close-quarter fighting. This calls for a timely decision to break contact. Should the force become closely involved, the commander must decide whether the whole delaying position should be abandoned, or whether only certain sectors should be relinquished.

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Checkpoint (In Withdrawal)

22. A checkpoint is a place normally established at an easily recognizable location on the route back, through which troops move on their way back to their RV. Troops should not halt but the commander should advise when his troops are through. Checkpoints will be required at battalion group and company level and may be required at platoon level. Checkpoints must have radio, and above platoon level be manned by an officer or warrant officer. See also 'Rendezvous'.

Capture


Clear 24. See 'task verbs'.

Cleared Route

25. A cleared route is a route that must be cleared of enemy by a formation or unit. It must be kept clear until responsibility for it is handed over to another formation, battle group or battalion.

Combat Team

26. A combat team is a sub-unit of a battle group, usually consisting of armour and infantry commanded by a squadron or company commander.

Command

27. Command is the the lawful authority exercised by NCO and officers over subordinates. On operations it involves planning, decision-taking, issuing orders and supervising the implementation of orders. See also 'control'. Administration is a function of command.

Concentration Area

28. In the concentration area, troops are brought together, briefed, rehearsed, administered and prepared for battle. The area should ideally be free from enemy interference, be concealed, and have room to permit manoeuvre by the forces using it.

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Contain

29. To stop, hold or surround the forces of the enemy or to cause the enemy to centre his activity oh a given Eront preventing his withdrawing any part of his forces for use elsewhere.

Control

30. Control is the mechanics of command. It is those measures employed by the commander and his staff to ensure the most effective implementation of his orders. Thus the allocation of an authority may be made to a commander which is less than command but allows optimal use of the resource without the burden of command. See also 'command' and MLW One 6.1 - Staff Duties in the Field, 1979, Chapter 4, Annex K.

Co-ordination Point

31. Designated point at which, in all types of combat, adjacent units/formations must make contact for purposes of control and co-ordination. The terms junction point, limiting point and interlocking points are sometimes wrongly used in a similar context. Junction point is a British term and its meaning is similar to co-ordinating point. Limiting point is mentioned in JSP (AS) 102 but is not defined in the glossary. Interlocking point is not defined but is used colloquially to describe the point at which the inside lines of two arcs of fire of mutually supporting weapons cross.

Decisively Committed

32. Decisively committed is defined as: 'A unit which has committed its fire and manoeuvre resources to the degree where it has lost freedom of action'.

Dead^ Ground

33. An area which because of the shape of the ground, it is not possible to see into or to bring accurate direct fire to bear.

Deduction

34. A deduction is inference from general to particular. Thus given the factors that there are two LMGs and one RPG identified on Hill X causing delay to our advance one can use the general information in MLW Three 2.2 - The Musorian Armed Forces, 1980 under doctrine organisations and order of battle to deduce such things as:

f a. it is possibly a platoon position;

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b. there is a third squad which, by doctrine, in this phase of war, would be located in the vicinity of area Y;

e. there are two more RFG 7;

d. there are probably some other heavier weapons such as HMGs or AT3s (the general idea and narrative would give clues here);

e. the platoon would be within range of at least the RAG; and

f. most important, what does all this mean to you? This leads to such deductions as:

(1) number of objectives,

(2) size of targets and therefore size of fire unit required,

(3) likely enemy DF tasks which you need then to avoid,

(4) the ratio of fire units to objectives and manoeuvre elements and therefore the requirements for the development of adequate combat power.

(5) the emphasis to be given to your own resources such as employment of support section to destroy a bunker or use of air burst to destroy enemy in open pits.

Note that a deduction 'I must maintain momentum' is nonsense because it is a statement: of principle. It is from this principle and its application to given facts that you deduce how you can achieve momentum in the particular scenario. See also the explanation of 'so what'.

Defence

'The objective of the defence will be to destroy the enemy and not merely to stop him' : Field Marshal Montgomery

35. There are two types of defence:

a. Deliberate Defence. This is defence prepared when out of contact with the enemy. There will be time for detailed reconnaissance and the arrangement of the defence on favourable ground.

b. Hasty Defence. This is defence built up under the threat of, or In the face of, an enemy. There will be Insufficient time to prepare a deliberate defence and the ground will have to be taken as it is and prepared as far as time and the enemy will allow.

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36. The main types of defensive operations are Area and Mobile.

a. Area Defence. In this the commander will rely on the use of prepared posit Ions on commanding ground, mutually supporting firepower and obstacles to prevent the enemy penetrating the framework of the defence and destroying him when he attempts do so. The commander would normally retain a mobile reserve, strong in armour, to defeat enemy that successfully penetrates the position.

In area defence the attacker is destroyed, as he struggles to break into the defended area of ground, by concentrated direct (and indirect) fire from mutually supporting positions.

b. Mobile Defence. The commander will aim to deFn-ii. the enemy within an area of considerable depth by a continuous process of checks and counter attacks rather than defeating him on a specifically defined position. The commander may c'ioosh f:<> hoi 1 st!l<:e«:<j<i gcou-id and to use both artificial and natural obstacles in order to channel the enemy into areas where he can best be defeated.

In mobile defence the attacker is detroyed by mobile reserves, once well sited defensive localities and obstacles have forced him into selected areas. (See also Killing Areas).

De f <-;n.!•-•.] 1, >•; -*1 i ry

37. A defended locality consists of mutually supporting strong-points and will usually be defended by a company.

38. Defended localities should be so sited that penetration within them is virtually impossible. See also 1strongpoint'.

Defend


Defilade Position

40. A position at an angle to the enemy line of advance vhlch enables engagement of the enemy's flank without being seen ;>y .nemy forces following on. Thus from a defilade position enfilade fire is produced. See also 'enfilade fire'.

Delay


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Demolition

42. Demol i t. i ons r<< i-. f i.iisl .is:

a. Preliminary Demolition. Preliminary demolitions are those which do not interfere with our planned tactical movement. Normally the commander will delegate authority to fire these demolitions to the engineers as soon as there is no danger of prejudicing surprise or otherwise affecting operations. The earlier preliminary demolitions are fired the better in order to release engineers for other tasks.

b. Reserved Demolition. Any demolition which is not to be blown without the authority of the commander is a reserved demolition. By implication preserved demolitions are confined to those demolitions which, if they fell intact into enemy hands, would seriously prejudice the tactical situa" ion.

c. States of Readiness.

(1) State 1 means that the demolition has been prepared but is safe. The firing circuits are made up but not connected and detonators are not inserted.

(2) State 2 or Armed means that the demolition is ready for initiation. The firing circuits have been connected and detonators now inserted. It will take a push of a button to detonate charges.

Deny


Depth

44. Every defensive layout must have depth if it is to defeat a sustained attack. The greater the enemy firepower, cross-country performance and mobility, particularly at night, and the wider the frontages to be held, the greater that depth must be. Some degree of enemy penetration will be inevitable, but this must be contained by positions in depth to stop the enemy seriously disrupting the defensive layout. The mobility of mechanised forces will enable them to check, contain and counter-attack any penetration more easily than non-mechanized forces.;

45. Depth gives the defence the added advantage that the enemy will be forced, to plan later phases of his attack without detailed reconnaissance, and may be compelled to commit his reserves prematurely to maintain the momentum of his attack.

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46. Additional depth for the main defensive zone can be provided by deploying a covering force in front of it.

47. Positions in depth will also surprise and unbalance the attacker thus providing conditions for counter-attack.

48. As many long range weapons as are available should be so deployed that they can engage the enemy as far out as possible. The development and use of obstacles must be co-ordinated with the employment of long range weapons. Local reserves should be maintained to prevent infiltration between positions.

49. The term 'depth units' refers to those units sited in depth in specific areas, which are essential to the integrity of the defence layout. See also 'reserve*.

Destroy


Direct Fire

51. Direct Fire is produced by weapons where the person aiming the weapon must be able to see the target or, if firing at night or in poor visibility, must have been able to see his target before in order to record his fall of shot eg GPMG on fixed lines.

Direct Support - See 'support'.

Effect

52. Effect is a term used to describe the import of an enemy course or action on own forces. 'This course denies me the max spt from B Coy. To make up for this I must ' The counter-measures are a basis for developing the polish and detail needed in the step from 'Assessment of Tasks' to 'Own Courses'.

Electronic Silence

53. The deliberate prohibition of electronic radiations, normally applied for a stated period, to specific equipments or frequency bands.

Electronic Warfare

54. That division of the military use of electronics involving actions taken to prevent or reduce an enemy's effective use of radiated electromagnetic energy and actions taken to ensure our own effective use of electromagnetic energy.

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Enfilade Fire

55. Fire which strikes the side of the enemy. A principle for the siting of anti-tank weapons; but GPMGs should also be sited if possible to fire along a line of advancing troops from one end.

Exchange Point (XP)

56. A point located near the rear of a divisional boundary where empty second line vehicles meet full' third line vehicles, which have driven up with combat supplies from a Replenishment Park. Crossing loading may take place, or more usually drivers exchange vehicles.

Exploit

57. To exploit is to take advantage of a successful attack by following-up and harassing a dislocated enemy with the aim of further disorganizing him in depth. This may provide the opportunity to capture ground which was not part of the objective of the original attack. It is normally necessary for a commander to lay down a limit of exploitation.

Factor

58. A factor is a fact contributing to a result. This means that a fact which pertains to the achievement of the aim of an appreciation is a factor. Thus in a set of references, a narrative and a map, we find many facts and we select the relevant ones and list them under the heading 'FACTORS' and sub-headings 'Relative Strengths', 'Ground', 'Assessment of Tasks', 'Time and Space' and 'Enemy Courses' and other than may seem relevant. The relationship between Aim, Factors, Own Courses and Outline Plan is shown in the flow diagram at Annex A to Part 1. Note that Own Courses and Outline Plan are not factors.

Field of Fire

59. The area which a weapon or group of Weapons may cover effectively with fire from a given position.

Fire and Movement

60. When troops in contact of advancing to contact move they must retain tactical balance. This is normally described as keeping one foot on the ground. Before a group or vehicle moves, another group or vehicle must be in fire positions providing, or ready to provide, fire support. It may be seen as mobile mutual support.

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Forward Edge of the Battle Area (FEBA)

63. This is a co-ordination line which indicates the foremost limits of ground combat units excluding areas in which the screen and/or covering force are operating.

Forward Line of Own Troops (FLOT)

64. The FLOT is the line which indicates the most forward positions of own troops, in any kind of operation, at a specific time. It is an important control line for the co-ordination of indirect fire and close air support.

Forming-Up Place (FUP)

65. An area to which troops deploy immediately before an attack and in which they may adopt their assault formations. It allows a buffer of time between the move forward and crossing the line of departure at H Hour. The FUP is occupied for as short a time as possible although it is here that final orders or briefings may be given or orientation carried out. If it is outside the FEBA it must be reconnoitred and protected before the assaulting troops move into it. The area chosen should have the following criteria:

a. Secure from direct enemy action (This security may be provided by the initial firm base force or it may be necessary to use a separately designated force. A platoon can secure a company FUP).

b. Defilade from the enemy's direct fire weapons.

c. Away from likely DF tasks.

d. In dead ground to the enemy observation.

e. If possible accessible by a covered approach.

Forward Slope

66. A position which is exposed to direct fire and to observed indirect fire. See also 'reverse slope'.

Ground Covering Approaches

67. First see the explanations of 'approaches' and 'key terrain'. To identify Ground Covering Approaches in defence, take each approach in turn and identify locations from which you can interfere with an attacking enemy using that approach. These locations will include some or all of your key terrain and features outside your boundaries including some occupied by flanking units. Deductions can be made from this concerning the potential of your relevant key terrain and the support available to you. In the attack examine the problem from the reverse point of view. It may be useful here to also identify possible Oft which cover the approach.

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Harbour Area

68. A bivouac under cover, occupied when not in close contact with the enemy, for the purpose of carrying out essential replenishment and the maintenance of vehicles and providing rest for personnel. Occupation may occur by day or by night and may continue for several days.

Hours

69. a. H Hour. When used in connection with planned operations,

it is the specific hour on which the operation commences. At the tactical level, it is invariably when troops cross the line of departure.

b. L Hour. The time at which troops cross a subsequent line of departure - invariably the start of Phase 2 of an operation.

c. N Hour. That time planned for the explosion of the first of a series of tactical nuclear weapons, as part of a specific ground force's operation, or in the case of a single strike the time planned for that explosion.

d. P Hour. In airborne operations, the time of drop of the first sticks of the main body.

e. Y Hour. In helicopter operations, the time the first helicopter takes off from the pick up point at the commencement of operations.

Holding Ground

70. To hold is to retain possession of a specific piece of ground by force. A unit holds ground when it is physically in possession of that ground. Invariably this requires some form of digging.

Indirect Fire

71. Fire where the man aiming the weapon does not need to see the target or the fall of shot as his fire is either predicted or being observed, normally by an FO or MFC.

Intimate Support Tanks

72. In the attack a proportion of tanks may accompany infantry to an objective to provide immediate, intimate and accurate fire support when artillery, mortar or other forms of fire support has had to stop because of safety distances.

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73. The intimacy of tanks is not from their proximity (whether mounted or dismounted) but from their gun fire on the ground.

Junction Points

74. See 'co-ordination points'.

Killing Area or Ground ;

75. An area in which a commander plans to force the enemy to concentrate, so as to destroy him. Killing ground is not a universally accepted term but is. a useful concept when looking at enemy approaches to the vital ground. Having determined the approaches, killing grounds can be identified and related to ground covering approaches. Thus specific ground covering approaches are identified as suitable sites for anti-armour weapons if the killing ground is on an armoured approach and so forth. This ultimately leads to a series of alternatives for covering a number of killing grounds. The main advantage of the concept is that it engenders an offensive line of thought rather than the rather defensive attitude prevalent in many defence TEWT.

Key Terrain

76. JSP (AS) 101(A) defines key terrain as 'any locality, or area, the seizure or retention of which affords a marked advantage to either combatant'. Students often experience difficulty in selecting key terrain, usually because they cannot decide which feature(s) within their boundaries are of tactical significance. To be able to select key terrain you need two things: first, a thorough understanding of what your aim is and second, knowing what the enemy's intention is. If you apply these two criteria along with the JSP definition to the features of significance within your boundaries then you will be able to determine the key terrain without difficulty. In other words, key terrain is tactically significant ground which either the defender or the attacker will utilise to achieve his aim. While at the JSC the identification of key terrain is to occur within your boundaries. Ground of importance outside your boundaries is to be identified as other ground covering approaches. See definition/explanation of 'ground covering'. Sometimes key terrain can be identified as clusters of two down sized pieces of ground (at company level, section sized 'goose eggs'). Those new to the appreciation process are advised to simply identify the features as such that are key terrain and treat ground capacity separately. Sometimes, however, a more defined approach is required, eg for identifying likely enemy squad positions or vital ground on a flat feature. Note that for an attack, all objectives are key terrain but not all key terrain are objectives.

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Limitations to the Aim

77. Having selected an aim it will be apparent that, in most instances, the given task will include some limitations to the freedom of action to carry out that task. A commander may often give a time frame or require subsidiary tasks be carried out or that the task be performed in a certain manner. These facts are limitations to the aim. Note that limitations are imposed by 'Sir' not by the writer of the appreciation. Principles are not listed as limitations (eg impose maximum casualties) but are considered in the body of the appreciation. Limitations should be written straight away into notes under the headings 'time and space' and/or assessment of tasks as appropriate.

Line of Departure

78. The line of departure will normally be the forward edge of the FUP and, if possible, at right angles to the direct FS. It is the line which assaulting troops cross at H Hour. It must be secure, and, if necessary, troops musti be allocated to hold it. All timings for fire and manoeuvre plans ajre based on the time troops cross the line of departure.

Map Appreciation

79. A map appreciation is the means of producing a reconnaissance plan. Complete as much of the appreciation as possible off the map and other detail given to you. You should be able to complete at least the aim, relative strengths, ground, some aspects of assessment of tasks and time and space and enemy courses. From this questions will emerge which form the basis of the ground reconnaissance plan. Questions will apply particularly to the selection of key terrain, vital ground, approaches and the analysis of approaches. Take care though: DO NOT CLOSE YOUR MIND TO THE REALITY OF THE GROUND.

Minefields

80. There are four main types of tactical minefields:

a. Tactical Minefields. Tactical minefields are part of the formation obstacle plan and are designed to delay, channel or break up An enemy advance. They are covered by observed direct or indirect fire.

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b. Protective Minefields. These are for the close-in protection of a unit. Protective minefields are to slow an enemy attack in its final stages. They should be well concealed to achieve surprise and should be covered by small arms and anti-tank fire. They are sited by the unit commander and laid by units.

c. Nuisance Minefields. Nuisance minefields are laid by RAE and Assault Pioneers only to delay and disorganize the enemy particularly reconnaissance patrols, by introducing a sense of uncertainty and a need for caution, which will have a subsequent effect on morale. All types of mine may be used. They are not normally marked but are recorded and reported. They are particularly effective during a withdrawal.

d. Phoney Minefields. An area of ground used to simulate a minefield with the aim of deceiving the enemy. They are marked in exactly the same way as a real minefield.

See MLW Two 2.5 Mine Warfare and Booby Traps, 1982, Section 1-5 for further details.

Mission

81. A mission duly assigned to a unit; a task. It is constructed by employing mission/task verbs. An example of a defence mission is 'To def SLENDER RIDGE' where Slender Ridge is the vital ground. An example of an attack mission is 'To clear HOT POT by 1400'. Note while limitations are not normally included, a statement of any time constraint may be valid in a mission.

Mutual Support ,

82. Mutual support increases the strength of any defensive position. It exists when the enemy cannot attack one position without being subjected to direct fire from at least one other position. Where observation and fields of fire are good, the long range of ATGW and tank guns allow wide frontages to be held whilst still achieving mutual support across the front. Where visibility and fields of fire are restricted mutual support will depend either on holding a narrower front or, if this is unacceptable, confining mutual support to within battalions or even within company localities and leaving gaps in between.

83. In addition, by night, mutual support will be influenced by the scale and efficiency of night fighting and surveillance aids, on whether the ground enables them to be used fully, and on what night fighting equipment the enemy possesses As it will often be impracticable to have different positions for night and day, a commander will have to take the requirements of the night battle into account when deciding defensive positions.

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84. Frequently the unavailability of troops will create a conflict between the need for depth and the demands of mutual support across the front. Depth is the more important, and often mutual support between battalions and companies may have to be sacrificed. Commanders must have the courage to accept gaps which must be covered by at least surveillance and indirect fire.

85. Mutual support should always be achieved by sections within platoons. Between larger sub-units a lesser degree of support may have to be accepted. When the threat is primarily an armoured one mutual support between anti-armour weapons is essential. See also 'fire and movement'.

86. Where the. arcs of mutually supporting weapons overlap, an 'interlocking point', may be designated for the purpose of control and safety. 'Interlocking Point' is not an official term but it is in general usage in some formations and units.

Objective

87. A definite tactical feature (usually occupied or suspected of being so), the seizure or holding of which is essential to the commander's plan. Thus when battlefield indicators reveal that there is an enemy platoon on a feature and the task of clearing that platoon is given to a company, objectives are identified two down (ie there are three squad objectives) and these are related to key terrain. See 'key terrain'. When examining objectives each should be measured and assessed for size of fire unit needed to neutralize it and the type of ammunition (delay, airburst, etc) that would be most suitable for the task.

Occupy

88. To occupy is to move into an area and to complete deployment there in preparation for the main phase of the operation being conducted.

Obstacles

89. See 'minefields'. In employing obstacles certain characteristics and principles must be kept in mind.

a. Principles Related to all Obstacles. Obstacles:

(1) are sited either to delay in killing ground or to canalise enemy into killing ground;

(2) must be co-ordinated with anti-tank fire a counter-attack plans at appropriate level;

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(3) must be covered by observation and fire, preferably direct fire weapon from defensive location;

(4) can separate components of a force, eg infantry and tank;

(5) can still cause delay even after being breached;

(6) should create surprise where possible;

(7) supplement natural obstacles where possible; and

(8) should be concealed where possible or otherwise they are next to useless.

Minefields.

(1) Minefields can be a double edged weapon. They must not restrict our own movement and must be carefully recorded. Points to note are:

(a) Anti-tank mines designed to cut tracks of a tank and immobilize it so that it can be destroyed by anti-tank weapons. Percentage hits relates to density. One anti-tank mine per metre of front gives 50% kill probability, for APCs.

(b) Density doesn't describe effectiveness of anti-personnel mines. Less than 24 blast per metre may not stop determined infantry. Effect greatly increased with fragmentation mines.

(c) Minefield should not be less than 300 m deep to prevent the enemy breaching it in one night. Depth gained by increasing width between strips.

(d) Minefield should be patrolled to prevent enemy interference - fences repaired regularly.

(e) General layout of minefield in defensive position must be simple. The greatest use should therefore be made of single large minefields.

(f) Aim must be clear, eg stop tank, stop infantry, delay.

(g) All should be fenced/marked in accordance with MLW Two 2.5 - Mine Warfare and Booby Traps, 1982, Section 2-2.

(h) Unmined passages left for safe passage of patrol or larger forces, eg counter attack force.

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(1) Lane is 10 paces wide for patrol or wheeled vehicles.

(j) Gap is 100 paces wide for formed bodies of assault element.

(k) Breaching rates for a minefield:

i. clear 2m footpath - Sect 30m/hour by day (reduce by 50% by night).

ii. lane 100 m by 8 m - Tp - 8 hr by day 10 hr by night

iii. refer to MLW One 6.2 - Aide-memoire, 1981 for breaching with explosives.

(1) Phoney minefield - formation policy for laying -recorded as for minefield it simulates.

(m) Fragmentation mines cannot be surface laid (M16 is 20 cm from base to tip of actuating prongs).

c. Wire Obstacles. When siting or planning the construction of wire obstacles, be mindful of the following:

(1) wiring at night particularly causes much noise -liable to enemy interference;

(2) time available (daylight, moonlight or darkness);

(3) frontage required;

(4) acquisition and delivery of stores;

(5) rehearsals essential particularly if restricted to night laying.

(6) NEVER mix loads mines/wire/demolition stores.

(7) concealment.

One Star General

90. A low grade petrol with a high lead content. Usually associated with a high anti-knock rating.

Phases

91. Attacks are sometimes divided into phases to assist in maintaining control and to make the maximum use of supporting fire. Phases will be necessary when re-grouping or a re-allocation of

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resources has to take place or when fresh groups have to be introduced either to pass through or hold what has been won already. A plan requiring many phases is likely to be complicated and may well result in excessive pauses and loss of momentum. This will give the enemy a chance to recover and launch counter-attacks. When examining an approach for phases ask yourself these questions:

a. Is phasing the only way to generate the necessary combat power?

b. If other objectives preclude my phasing because of their proximity could I pass through a depth platoon to take it out without phasing?

c. If phasing is the only solution, where could I draw in my phase line (being aware that the FUP/LD must be in accord with the characteristics given earlier in this Glossary)?

d. Does a phase line on a well separated objective offer me a marked advantage? (It may be that from FUP/LD to Obj 2 I have one platoon frontage and from Obj 2 to Obj 3 and Obj 4 I have 2 platoon frontage allowing a re-allocation of resources).

Positions

92. There are a number of terms relating to various types of positions used in defence. Some of these are peculiar to anti-armour weapon siting, armour and infantry sub units and unit positions in area and delaying defence. The terms are not addressed in the JSP Glossary and there is also considerable contradiction in the common usage of the terms. An attempt to dissentangle this is offered below.

a. Main Position. The position from which an armoured vehicle or anti-tank weapon carries out its primary task. This may also be called main battle position.

b. Primary Position. The main position from which an infantry unit intends to fight. It may have reconnoitred or prepared an alternative position to which it might move if the primary position becomes untennable.

c. Alternative Position. a position from which the primary task can still be carried out if the main/primary position becomes untennable. They are uSed to:

(1) deceive the enemy ground and air reconnaissance,

(2) overcome the visibility problems presented by night,

(3) achieve all round defence,

(4) provide positions for counter-penetration, and

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(5) achieve delay along an enemy axis of advance.

Alternative positions for infantry units should be examined carefully as they are resource intensive. Care should also be taken to ensure that the enemy cannot use them against the defenders.

d. Secondary Position. A previously reconnoitred and, if possible, prepared position to which an anti-tank weapon or armoured vehicle or armoured sub-unit may have to move to carry out a secondary task, eg deny another approach.

Radio Silence

93. A period during which all or certain radio equipment capable of radiation is kept inoperative.

Reconnaissance Plan

94. See 'map appreciation'.

Report Line

95. A report line is an easily recognizable feature, at right angles to the axis, which is used to report progress. It has no tactical significance. It is given a nickname.

Reserves

96. In defence a formation commander requires to meet both anticipated and unexpected situations. The correct division of resources between forward and reserve troops, and deciding when to commit reserves are amongst the most difficult decisions which a commander will have to make.

97. Without a reserve a force lacks flexibility and balance. once a reserve has been committed a new one must be created. A reserve should include a balance of all combat arms and be capable of matching enemy mobility. In mechanized operations, APCs will provide mobility for the infantry and ensure a quick response. In other types of operation the degree of mobility of the infantry element of a reserve will vary between marching, carriage on tanks and a lift in support helicopters.

98. , The size of reserves depends on the design for battle. There may be occasions when half a formation is initially held in reserve, but usually this will not be practicable.

99. In deciding when to commit reserves the following factors should be taken into account:

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a. An attacker is more vulnerable when he is on the point of launching his assault or has just reached his objective. A quickly mounted counter-attack may achieve results out of all proportion to its size.

b. The deployment of the reserve should be timed, if possible, to avoid the worst of any enemy preliminary fire. To be able to do this, particularly at night, positions including alternate positions and routes will have to be reconnoitred and prepared.

c. The ground and the enemy strength will indicate the advantages of counter-attacking or of remaining positioned in depth. If the ground being forefeited is not vital to the continued defence of the area, and if the aim is to inflict casualties on the enemy by attrition, reserves may be employed better by occupying positions in depth and gradually bringing the enemy to a halt.

d. It may be possible to destroy or compel the enemy to withdraw by bringing an increasing weight of fire to bear from the front, flank or rear, without using the reserve.

100. The possible roles for a reserve often conflict and may make the decision on its positioning one of priorities or compromise.

101. In all operations a reserve should be nominated and, if possible, constituted. A reserve is held in readiness to react to the unexpected. Likely tasks may be given, but a commander must retain the ability to deploy his reserve to any area in order to maintain or regain the tactical balance. See also 'depth'.

Reverse Slope

102. Any slope which descends away from the enemy.

103. Although reverse slopes will often provide the best positions for defence, in each case the choice of a forward or reverse slope position should be decided on its merits.

104. A battalion or company commander may adopt a reverse slope position:

a. to surprise and deceive the enemy about the location of the defensive position,

b. when a forward slope might be made untenable by enemy fire,

c. when occupation of the forward slope is not essential for observation, and

d. when the fields of fire on the reverse slope are sufficient.

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105. The advantages of a Reverse Slope Position are:

a. enemy ground observation (including the use of radar) of the position is masked;

b. enemy direct fire is less effective owing to the lack of observation;

c. the enemy may be deceived over the strength and location of the positions;

d. the attacker's illumination may be of restricted value;

e. the defender's illumination will be much less likely to give away the detailed location of the defensive position;

f. enemy assaulting troops will be skylined within range of all the defender's weapons;

g. the defenders may have more freedom of movement; and

h. the defender's administrative arrangements (feeding, resupply) are eased as they are out of sight other than from the air.

106. The disadvantages of a Reverse Slope Position are:

a. observation to the front is limited and the defender may be unable to cover minefields and other obstacles to the front effectively;

b. the effective range of direct fire weapons, such as tanks and LRAAWs may be severely limited;

c. the enemy may be able to launch a surprise attack, particularly at night, unless there are some observation and surveillance posts including patrols, overlooking his approaches; and

d. the enemy will assault downhill.

107. The reverse slope position should be designed to inflict maximum casualties on the enemy forward of the position and to provide effective surprise fire as the enemy crosses the crest. It should be organized as follows:

a. The forward edge of the position should be within effective small arms range of the crest, but far enough from the crest for the enemy to be exposed to this fire for as long as possible. When the threat is predominantly armoured some tanks may be positioned forward in the sniping role.

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b. Protective minefields and wire should be sited on the reverse slope behind the crest line and there should be DF tasks in this area.

c. Observation and surveillance posts should be sited forward and to the flanks to provide observation and give warning of the enemy approach.

d. The illumination plan should provide maximum illumination of the enemy as he crosses the crest and encounters the minefield and wire.

e. Where possible fire from flanking defensive positions should be sited to engage the enemy on the forward slope.

Rendezvous - RV (in the Withdrawal)

108. RVs are areas where companies and platoons collect and reorganize as an entity before continuing the withdrawal on foot, in vehicles or by helicopter. RVs must be designated by the next higher commander to prevent friendly forces clashing during the withdrawal. RVs must be:

a. secured, defendable and large enough to hold the force which is to occupy it,

b. in a defilade area which is not an obvious target for enemy harassing fire, and

c. protected. (In the case of a company this may be done by the first platoon to arrive and at battalion level the depth company might take on this responsibility. These protection parties must make a daylight reconnaissance of the area).

Screen

109. Security elements deployed from, for the immediate protection of, and normally supported by a defensive position.

Secondary Position

110. A completely new position, normally prepared but certainly at least reconnoitred, to which a crew served weapon will be moved once its primary position has become untenable or when its primary position has become ineffective because of the flow of battle. A crew served weapon may remain in a hide until the main enemy thrust has been identified. It will then be called forward to man its primary or secondary position. See also 'primary position'.

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Secure

111. To secure is to take an objective which may or may not currently be held by the enemy and put into effect those measures and dispositions that will, as far as possible, prevent the enemy destroying or capturing that position.

'So What'

112. Having collected your information and grouped it under the appropriate factor the next step is to make deductions from the facts set down. Your deductions must be relevent to the achievement of your aim and should make a practical contribution to your reasoning process. See 'factor and deduction'. Once you have set down a fact or group of facts ask yourself the question 'so what?' If this leads you nowhere you may be considering a factor that is not contributing to a result; if so, discard it. You should continue the process of asking 'so what?' until all possible deductions that are relevant to your aim have been made from that factor. Some simple examples to illustrate the method follow:

a. From a personal reconnaissance a commander has obtained the following information for the factor 'Ground'.

(1) Open, undulating and firm going. No obstacles.

SO WHAT?

(2) Therefore it is suitable for tanks and provides good going for wheeled vehicles.

SO WHAT?

(3) Therefore movement not restricted to roads. The advance could be made on a broad front.

b. In the preceding example the 'so what' process led through a logical progression with each deduction adding something to the appreciation. Without careful attention to your 'so what' process you may find yourself making a 'statement of the blatantly obvious' which takes you no further forward. Such a 'statement' is not wrong if it helps you towards making a real deduction but it does not necessarily need to be written down. For example, from a study of relative capabilities under the factor 'Enemy*, the defending commander notes:

(1) The enemy has 90 tanks; we have 30.

SO WHAT?

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(2) Therefore the enemy has a superiority of 3:1 in tanks. (This is 'blindingly obvious* and to stop the 'so what' process here would be wrong as no progression has been made from the factor. There is no need to write down this 'statement' unless you feel that it will help you progress logically into the next 'so what'.)

SO WHAT?

(3) Therefore I should site MRAAW forward and consider siting tanks forward as well to achieve maximum attrition as early as possible.

SO WHAT?

(4) Therefore I could have difficulty in finding a strong armoured reserve.

SO WHAT?

(5) Therefore I should look at the ground to see whether there are any areas suitable for medium artillery defensive fire and anti-armoured obstacles. This could relieve me from covering the area with direct fire weapons.

c. In addition to the dangers of 'stating the obvious' you must be aware of the dangers of reasoning yourself into an SOP. This does not help you in progressing toward the achievement of your aim. For example, whilst still considering relative capabilities under the factor 'Enemy', the defending commander notes:

(1) The enemy is well supported by artillery.

SO WHAT?

(2) Therefore:

(a) I must dig in with good overhead cover. (This is an SOP and has added nothing to the process of producing deductions from the factor. It should not be included.)

(b) I should occupy a reverse slope, for my main position to be out of observed indirect fire if at all possible. (This is a progressive deduction that is helping you towards a soundly conceived plan.)

(c) I should achieve OHP by

(d) As stated in the explanation of deductions, the end point of the 'so what' process is where useful information (ie information at your level and usable in your plan) is generated.

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Stages of Digging-in an Infantry Position

113. There is some conflict in the references on the subject of what constitutes Stage 1, 2 or 3 digging. While on the JSC work on the description of the stages which follow:

a. Stage 1. Two man fire trenches 4ft 6 inches or 1.5 metres deep, clear fields of fire, spoil hidden, pit camouflaged. It takes approximately 4-8 hours to prepare.

b. Stage 2. Stage 1 pit is revetted, usually overhead cover (sometimes overhead protection is developed) and crawl trenches are begun. It takes approximately 24 hours to prepare.

c. Stage 3. Sleeping bays are completed with overhead protection, crawl/communication trenches are developed, and the position is camouflaged. It takes approximately three days to prepare.

Note that units lay down their own definition of the detail for each stage in SOPs. The timings allow for routine rest, administration and security (eg standing patrol etc.)

Support

114. The action of a force, or portion thereof, which aids, protects, complements, or sustains any other force. The word 'support' can be used in a number of contexts. Some are:

a. Mutual Support. See the explanation earlier in this glossary. In this context a company commander can be tasked to provide direct fire support to another company. If that other company is also tasked with providing direct fire support to the first company then mutual support can be achieved. An individual unit cannot achieve mutual support but two units can.

b. In Support. This term and the others associated with it (eg in direct support) are used to denote command status and the degree of guarantee of that support.

Tactical Bound

115. A tactical bound, during movement, is the next area of ground of tactical significance to which a part of the force will move. They will be covered by troops already in fire positions providing, or ready to provide, fire support. See also 'fire and movement'.

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Task Verbs

116. When stating an aim, mission or task it is imperative that the correct action verb is used.

Serial Verb Definition (a) (b) (c)

1. To Capture To seize and hold an objective.

2. To Clear To ensure an objective or clearly defined route is free from local enemy interference.

3. To Defend To employ or deploy combat power to prevent, resist or destroy an enemy attack and, during the conduct phase, to accept decisive engagement.

4. To Delay To obstruct, hinder and inflict maximum damage on the advancing enemy without becoming decisively committed (1).

5. To Deny To prevent enemy use of an area, feature, route or facility by a physical presence, firepower, obstacles, contamination, destruction or a combination of these measures.

6. To Destroy To inflict such casualties on an enemy force that it is not longer capable of performing its role.

7. To To To To

Contain Hold Secure Support

) ) As defined in JSP (AS) 101 Glossary (2). ) )

Notes: 1. Decisively Committed is defined as: 'A unit which has committed its fire and manoeuvre resources to the degree where it has lost freedom of action'.

2. 'To hold', 'to secure', 'to contain' and 'to support' are further explained in this glossary.

Withdrawal

117. Withdrawal is a defensive operation yhich may be designed with the primary purpose of extricating a force from a situation and retiring in good order to another position, or it may be designed to delay an enemy advance. The extent of the delay to be imposed will dictate the tactics.

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118. A withdrawal may be conducted deliberately as part of a pre-arranged plan, or more hastily as a result of a tactical reverse or on orders of a superior commander. In either case, the considerations for conducting the operation are the same. The aim of the commander, in both cases, will be to maintain an intact front during the operation and to occupy a new defensive position with as little enemy interference as possible. Close contact is to be avoided.

119. Withdrawal will either be conducted in or out of contact with enemy. To withdraw in contact is the most difficult operation in war.

Vital Ground

120. This is ground the possession of which by the enemy will seriously intefetre ,with the successfuly defence of the position. It is of such significance that if it is lost and the defence is to continue, it must be retaken. It will normally be selected by a superior commander. See also 'key terrain'. Having selected key terrain one then examines them all to ascertain which fulfils the definition of vital ground. Having thus identified the vital ground the focal point for approaches is established. See also 'approaches'. Note that the vital ground is not necessarily the highest or the rearmost feature.

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