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Ambush Tactics and Execution Steps

May 7, 2025

Conducting an Ambush

Establishing the ORP (Objective Rally Point)

  • Identify the road and anticipated enemy approach.

Leader's Reconnaissance

  • Participants Needed:
    • Platoon Leader (PL)
    • Radio Telephone Operator (RTO)
    • Security Squad Leader
    • Assault Squad Leader
    • Support Squad Leader
    • Security Observation Team (SNO) with 249 and M4 gunners.
  • Minimum Personnel: 7 people.
  • Purpose: Establish assault, support by fire, and security elements.

Reconnaissance Process

  1. Release Point Identification:

    • Clearly identifiable location where the recon group initially gathers.
    • Should be out of sight and sound from the objective.
    • Use natural features or markers (e.g., carving, PT belts) for identification.
  2. SNO Establishment:

    • Provides security and observation, updates on enemy movements.
    • Helps identify the Killzone.
  3. Security Reconnaissance:

    • Position security to provide early warning, not for engagement.
    • Needs identifiable markers for positioning.
  4. Support by Fire Positioning:

    • Recon where heavy weapons will be most effective.
  5. Assault Positioning:

    • Determine assault approach.
    • RTO and squad leaders coordinate for positioning.

Return to ORP

  • PL briefs Platoon Sergeant and updates squad leaders.
  • Ensure all personnel prepared (camo, equipment checks).

Moving to Ambush Site

  • Sequence: Security -> Support by Fire -> Assault.
  • Maintain stealth and strategic positioning.

Ambush Setup

  • Security: First to be positioned for early warning.
  • Support by Fire: Positions heavier weapons for maximal impact.
  • Assault: Final element to position, prepares for attack.

L-shaped vs Linear Ambush

  • L-shaped Ambush:
    • Provides crossfire, covers wider area within and outside the Killzone.
    • Preferred for tactical advantage.
  • Linear Ambush:
    • Restricted to targeting within a narrow area.

Initiating the Ambush

  • PACE Plan (Primary, Alternate, Contingency, Emergency):
    • Primary: Use of a Claymore mine.
    • Alternate: PL’s M4.
    • Contingency: Radio, whistle, or runner.
  • Mad Minute:
    • Intense shooting for one minute.
    • Followed by listening silence.

Assault Execution

  • Post-Mad Minute:
    • If silence, assault through the objective.
  • Establish Line of Advance (LOA):
    • Secure hand grenade range, then proceed to specialty tasks.
    • Perform EPW (Enemy Prisoner of War) procedures, searches, and litter teams.

Post-Ambush Actions

  • PL reports to Commanding Officer.
  • Decide on withdrawal or continuation of mission.