Civil engineer guide to fighting positions, shelters, obstacles

AFH 10-222 Volume 14 1 August 2008 47
2.5.6. Light Antitank Weapon (LAW) Fighting Position. Although the
LAW can be fired from other fighting positions, it is best to construct a dedicated
LAW fighting position that is located and designed to accommodate the
backblast from the weapon (Figure 2.22). Site the position such that the area
to the rear of the firing area is away from trees, walls, parapets, or loose
gravel that could deflect the backblast or blow debris from the backblast toward
other fighting positions and personnel. The LAW fighting position
should be about the size of a large, straight two-person fighting position and
have overhead cover located at one end of the fighting position. At the other
end of the fighting position, the LAW gunner position may have a small platform
for elbow rests cut into the top of the wall; the front face of the position
should be inclined forward for better stability. If frontal protection is needed
at the gunner's position, it should be minimal and stabilized. If there is raised
rear protection, it must be low enough to ensure that the blast is not diverted
toward another fighting position or back at the gunner. Also, make sure the
rear wall of the fighting position is not too high for the LAW’s full range of
fire. This could cause the blast to become entrapped in the fighting position
for elevated shots. Locate grenade sumps at both ends of the position.
Figure 2.22. Light Antitank Weapon (LAW) Fighting Position.