Conducting a Platoon Ambush

Initial Setup

• Platoon pulls 360-degree security at Objective Rally Point (ORP) or patrol base.
• Receive mission from company HQ.
• Platoon Leader (PL) issues WARNO to platoon.
• PL and HQ create a terrain model and platoon OPORD.

Leader's Recon

• PL conducts Leader's Recon with key personnel: Squad Leaders, Point Man, RTO.
• Optional: Set a rally point or release point in the middle of the area.
• PL issues a 5-point contingency plan (GOTWA) before leaving:
  • Who's going
  • When leadership will return
  • Actions if attacked
  • Responsibilities while they are gone

Squad Coordination

• After Recon, Squad Leaders place squads on the objective.
• Leadership returns to the release point and radios to PSG to move platoon to the release point.

Movement to Objective

• Platoon moves usually in a platoon column or fire team wedge (depends on terrain and PL's commands).
• March order based on unit SOP.

Setting Up the Ambush

• Upon reaching RP, PL sets up elements for ambush:
  • Security Elements:
    • Alpha Team at the top, Bravo Team at the bottom, Security and Observation in the middle.
  • Support by Fire Elements:
    • Weapon Squad positioned in the middle of the kill zone, with Gun 1, Gun 2, and PSG at the back.
  • Assaulting Elements:
    • PL and assaulting elements prepare to assault through the objective.

Execution of the Ambush

• PL waits for OPFOR to enter the kill zone.
• Initiate fire with a "mad minute" (one minute of continuous fire).
• Assault:
  • Assault elements bound through the objective.
  • Platoon has 7 minutes to vacate the objective before OPFOR reinforcements or artillery arrive.

Post-Ambush Actions

• Special Teams Called by PL:
  • EPW: Check enemies for life and intel.
  • Aid and Litter: Address any casualties.
  • Demo: Destroy any critical intel or weapons cache if necessary.

Evacuation and Conclusion

• PL calls for a red-white-blue plan:
  • Red: Assault elements return to release point.
  • White: Remaining elements bound back to release point.
  • Blue: Initiate explosives detonation.
• Once back at ORP, PL calls HQ for a SITREP.

Summary: The procedure happens in well-defined stages, beginning with security, reconnaissance, squad coordination, movement, ambush execution, post-ambush actions, and concluding with evacuation and reporting. Timing and proper communication are crucial for a successful operation.