Part B - Tactical Use & Considerations

Jack T
Jack T
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1. Areas to Avoid


Certain terrain features should be avoided due to their vulnerability or operational constraints:
  • Depressions:
    • Vulnerable to enemy fire due to being surrounded by high ground.
    • Limited visibility and maneuverability.
    • Should not be used for ORPs or ambush sites unless extremely well concealed.
  • Cliffs:
    • Impassable or highly restrictive for troop movement.
    • Natural chokepoints that can trap forces.
    • Avoid crossing areas near cliffs unless absolutely necessary.
  • Cuts:
    • Man-made cuts in terrain (e.g., roads or railways) funnel movement into predictable paths.
    • Exposed to ambushes and surveillance.
    • Avoid using cuts as primary movement routes unless security measures are in place.
2. Ambush Setup Points

Terrain features that restrict or funnel enemy movement are ideal for ambushes. These locations allow you to maximize surprise and firepower:
  • Draws:
    • Narrow features that naturally channel enemy forces.
    • Excellent for linear ambushes with overlapping fields of fire.
  • Saddles:
    • Low points between two high areas are natural crossing points for enemy movement.
    • Ambush teams can be positioned on both sides to catch enemies in the middle.
  • Valleys:
    • Provide concealment but are also natural chokepoints.
    • Use valleys for ambushes if the high ground is controlled to prevent counterattacks.
  • Spurs:
    • Provide elevated positions for firing down on enemy forces moving below.
    • Ambush teams can retreat along the spur to a ridgeline for defense after engagement.
3. ORP (Objective Rally Point) Locations

ORPs are temporary positions established near an objective where troops can reorganize or prepare for an assault. The ideal ORP offers concealment, cover, and security.

  • Reverse Slopes of Hills or Ridges:
    • Conceals the ORP from enemy observation and fire.
    • Allows troops to monitor the surrounding area from higher ground.
  • Vegetation or Terrain Cover in Valleys:
    • Provides concealment if reverse slopes are not available.
    • Ensure the ORP is not visible from higher ground.
  • Depressions (if necessary):
    • Use depressions only if they are well-concealed and protected from observation.
4. Landing Zones (LZs)

Landing Zones are critical for inserting or extracting troops. They must be chosen with safety, accessibility, and operational goals in mind:

  • Flat, Open Terrain:
    • LZs should have minimal obstacles (e.g., trees, rocks, power lines).
    • Open areas like plateaus, wide saddles, or flat ridgelines are ideal.
  • Defensible Locations:
    • LZs should have surrounding high ground secured by friendly forces to prevent enemy engagement during landing or takeoff.
  • Accessibility:
    • LZs should be within a reasonable distance of the objective but not so close as to compromise operational security.

5. Movement Routes

Movement routes should be planned with an understanding of terrain's impact on visibility, cover, and speed:

  • Use Handrails:
    • Features like ridges, roads, or streams can serve as linear guides (handrails) to maintain direction while navigating.
  • Valleys and Draws for Concealment:
    • Offer cover from observation but must be cleared of ambush risks.
    • Plan alternate escape routes in case of enemy engagement.
  • Ridges for Observation:

    • Ridges allow for monitoring enemy activity but expose troops to counter-observation.
    • Use ridges for movement only if control over surrounding areas is assured.