RANGER HANDBOOK

• The requirement for mutual support.
• The length of operations.
• Minimize soldier’s load to facilitate stealth and speed.
• Resupply and MEDEVAC.
• Positioning key leaders and equipment.
• Employment of key weapons.
• Requirement for patrol bases.
• Concept for entering the zone of action.
• The concept for link-ups while in contact.
(2) Approach March. The concept of the approach march is to makecontact with the
smallest element, allowing the commander the flexibility of destroying or
bypassing the enemy. A platoon uses the approach march method as part of a
larger unit. It can be tasked as the advance guard, move as part of the main
body, or provide flank or rear security for the company or battalion. They may
also receive on-order missions as part of the main body.
b. Fundamentals common to all movements to contact.
(1) Make enemy contact with smallest element possible.
(2) Rapidly develop combat power upon enemy contact.
(3) Provide all-round security for the unit.
(4) Support higher unit’s concept.
(5) Reports all information rapidly and accurately and strives to gain and maintain
contact with the enemy.
(6) Requires decentralized execution.
(7) The following issues should be considered heavily for MTC operations:
(a) Factors of METT-TC.
(b) Reduced soldier’s load.
c. Task Standards. The platoon moves NLT the time specified in the order. The
platoon makes contact with the smallest element possible, and the main body is not
surprised by the enemy. Once the platoon makes contact, it maintains contact. The
platoon destroys squad and smaller-sized elements, and fixes elements larger than
a squad. The platoon maintains sufficient fighting force capable of conducting
further combat operations. Reports of enemy locations and contact are forwarded.
If not detected by the enemy, the PL initiates a hasty attack. The platoon sustains
no casualties from friendly fire. The platoon is prepared to initiate further movement
within 25 minutes of contact, and all personnel and equipment are accounted for.
d. Critical Performance Measures (Search and Attack).
(1) The platoon locates the enemy without being detected.
(2) Once engaged, fixes the enemy in position and maneuvers against the enemy.
(3) Maintains security throughout actions to avoid being flanked.
e. Critical Performance Measures (Approach March).
(1) PL selects the appropriate movement formation based on likelihood of enemy
contact.
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