FM 17-98 SCOUT PLATOON

To further improve the position, the platoon employs hasty protective minefields and wire and other obstacles as
appropriate and available. Wire obstacles should be emplaced outside grenade range of friendly positions. Once
vehicle positions and obstacles are established, the platoon develops a fire plan, including integrated indirect fires, and
submits it to its higher headquarters.
In addition to setting up the platoon position around the asset to be secured, the platoon also employs patrols and OPs
to enhance security (see Figure 4-28). It employs reconnaissance patrols and combat patrols as needed to become
familiar with the area of operations, to gain information on enemy forces, and to destroy small enemy dismounted
reconnaissance elements. OPs are deployed to observe likely avenues of approach, to provide early warning of enemy
activity, and to assist in controlling indirect fires.
Figure 4-28. Platoon area security dispositions.