FM 17-98 SCOUT PLATOON

BOUNDING OVERWATCH
Bounding overwatch, the slowest but most secure movement technique, is employed when enemy contact is expected.
It should always be used when time is available regardless of the likelihood of enemy contact. It provides for
immediate direct fire suppression on an enemy force that engages the bounding element with direct fire.
In bounding overwatch, one element is always stopped to provide overwatch. The trail element first occupies a
covered and concealed position from which it can overwatch the lead element. Upon completing its movement
(bound), the lead element then occupies a similar position and provides overwatch as the trail element bounds forward
to its next overwatch position. Bounding overwatch can be executed using one of the following bounding methods:
• Alternate bounds, in which the trail element advances past the lead element to the next overwatch position. This
method is usually more rapid than successive bounds.
• Successive bounds, in which the trail element moves to an overwatch position that is approximately abreast of
the lead element. This method is easier to control and more secure than alternate bounding, but it is slower.
As an example, a three-vehicle section may use the vee formation with bounding overwatch (see Figure 8-20). The
lead vehicles advance to a point (first move) where they can support the advance of the overwatch vehicle. On signal,
the overwatch vehicle moves forward to a position abreast of the lead vehicles (second move) and halts. During its
move, it is overwatched by both lead vehicles. The lead vehicles then move forward again, with the overwatch vehicle
providing security. Maximum use is made of folds of the earth and concealment to mask movement from likely enemy
positions.
MOVE-SET TECHNIQUE
Figure 8-20. Section using bounding overwatch technique and vee formation.
This method of movement is simply an organized way of controlling the scout section when it moves in bounding
overwatch. Set means that the element has arrived at its destination and has occupied a position from which it can
observe to its front. This technique allows for an absolute minimum of radio transmissions, positive control by the
section leader, and maximum security within the section. Preferably, the section leader uses hand-and-arm signals
within the section for command and control. If the section leader must use the radio, squad leaders should keep their
radios on the lowest possible power setting to reduce their signature and possible interference on the platoon net.
The move-set method can be used to control bounding overwatch within the scout section regardless of the platoon
organization. When terrain permits sections to be mutually supporting (such as in desert terrain) and other METT-TC
factors are favorable, the platoon leader can use this technique to control bounding (by sections). In such a situation,
the sections would not be operating independently, but rather would be directly controlled, and their movement