Dismounted Reconnaissance Troop - Army Electronic Publications ...

Chapter 8
caches. Cache activities should not jeopardize the offensive mission. In some cases, special operations
forces, multinational forces, or partisans may set up caches in an AO either for their own operations or to
support a troop or squadron mission.
8-59. In the defense, a defending unit should set up caches throughout the AO during the preparation
phase. A cache should also be in each alternate or subsequent position throughout the depth of the defense
AO. During stay-behind operations, or in an area defense on a fluid battlefield where the enemy is all
around, caches might be the only source of supply for extended periods.
Troop Prestock (Pre-Positioning and Cache)
8-60. The two methods of prestock resupply differ in the level of security provided for the supplies. With
pre-positioning, supplies are generally left unattended, without security, although steps are taken to prevent
detection of the location by threat elements.
8-61. Both pre-positioning and cache are used in a variety of reconnaissance and security operations.
During reconnaissance, prestock positions are established by advance elements along the intended route of
advance or near the objective. In security operations, reconnaissance elements set up prestock points
throughout the AO. These points are in alternate or supplementary OPs, in addition to other locations
throughout the depth of the AO. Scouts also use prestock to provide resupply for patrols.
8-62. Prestock operations are carefully planned and executed at every level. Prestock points are placed
where they can be located by simple instructions that are clear to someone who has never visited the site.
All leaders, including the lowest ranking member of the mission element, know the exact locations of
prestock points. As noted, the troop sustainment team takes steps to ensure security and survivability of
pre-positioned supplies by digging in prestock positions, selecting covered and concealed positions, and
considering the effects of weather and terrain. A prestock plan must include plans for removal or
destruction by the DRT element using the items.
SUPPLY CONSIDERATIONS
8-63. The techniques described in the preceding paragraphs are the normal methods for resupply within the
troop. However, a basic understanding of nonstandard techniques, different modes of delivery, and specific
supply issues are also required for the successful execution of the sustainment function.
Foraging and Scavenging
8-64. Foraging and scavenging are used infrequently and only under extreme conditions. Foraging is the
gathering of supplies and equipment necessary to sustain basic needs, such as food, water, and shelter, in
the AOs. Scavenging is the gathering of supplies or equipment (friendly or enemy) in the AOs to help the
user accomplish his military mission. Leaders protect their Soldiers by determining whether the food or
water is safe and whether the equipment is booby-trapped.
Aerial Resupply
8-65. Helicopters are a vital lifeline for reconnaissance units, especially when operating forward of friendly
lines for extended periods. Aerial resupply operations reduce the risks associated with conducting ground
resupply under such conditions; however, they require significant planning and entail consideration of a
different set of risks. Because of these issues and limited ground transportation, troop personnel must know
how to conduct aerial resupply (See FM 90-4). Dismounted reconnaissance troop units must have an
understanding of PZs/LZs selection, sling loading, bundle drops, and allowable cargo loads to conduct an
aerial resupply if needed.
8-66. Aerial assets are useful in resupplying DRT in OPs in restricted terrain. On the other hand, aerial
resupply is sometimes not feasible, such as when helicopters are not available. In addition, the signature of
resupply helicopters can compromise unit positions. Careful choice of resupply routes and LZs minimizes
this risk.
8-12 ATTP 3-20.97 16 November 2010