Lecture Notes: Conducting a Raid at the Platoon Level

Introduction

• Lecturer: Captain Justin de Leon
• Role: Assistant Professor of Military Science at the University of Iowa, MS3 Instructor
• Topic: Raid at the platoon level
• References:
  • ATP 3-21 Infantry Platoon and Squad
  • Ranger Handbook 2017 TC3-21.76

Definition of a Raid

• Raid: An offensive operation conducted only at the platoon level.
• Key Characteristics:
  • Speed and surprise are crucial.
  • Includes violence on the objective.
  • Always involves a planned withdrawal - no permanent occupation of the objective.

Comparison with Ambush and Platoon Attack

• Similarities with Ambush: Both require speed and surprise.
• Differences from Platoon Attack: Planned withdrawal is a major differentiator.

Key Elements of a Raid

• Three Main Elements Required:
  • Security Element
  • Support Element
  • Assault Element

Conducting a Raid

• Planning and Execution:
  • Conduct a leader's recon.
  • Prepare men, weapons, and equipment (ammunition, camouflage, communication).
  • Movement from secure position to Objective Rally Point (ORP).
  • Cross-level communications among squad leaders and relevant positions.

Leader's Recon

• Personnel Involved: PL (Platoon Leader), RTO, Squad Leaders, Security Squad.
• Preparation:
  • Cross-level ammunition, apply camouflage, and ensure minimal signature.
  • Establish communication lines and ensure constant communication.

Establishing Security and Support

• Movement to Release Point:
  • Conduct a SILS halt (Stop, Look, Listen, Smell) to acclimate to environment.
• Security Setup:
  • Deploy left and right security based on specific observations and needs.

Conducting the Assault

• Support by Fire Position:
  • Set up weapons squad to provide suppressive fire.
• Assault Positioning:
  • Determine assault and support positions based on terrain and objective layout.
  • Use target reference points (TRPs) for effective communication and targeting.

Execution and Withdrawal

• Initiation of Raid:
  • Use most casualty-producing weapon (240 Bravo) or an indirect fire.
• Assault Execution:
  • Use sequential movement and covering fire to assault objectives.

Post-Objective Actions

• Establish Security:
  • Set up 360-degree security immediately after taking the objective.
• Special Teams and EPW (Enemy Prisoners of War) Handling:
  • Clear, search, and gather intelligence.

Planned Withdrawal

• Systematic Retreat:
  • Execute withdrawal in reverse order of entry: Assault, then Support, then Security.
  • Ensure accountability with a choke point for counting personnel and equipment.

Key Principles

• Speed and Surprise: Essential for success.
• Violence on Objective: Execute with force and efficiency.
• Planned Withdrawal: Deliberate and organized to ensure success.

Conclusion

• Ensure constant communication and systematic planning.
• No set time standard for withdrawal; adjust based on conditions.
• Adapt and exploit opportunities on the objective as necessary.

This guide summarizes how to conduct a raid at the platoon level, capturing key elements and steps involved in the planning and execution phases. Ensure all necessary elements are in place and operations are synchronized for success.