FMI 3-34.119 - Soldier Support Institute - U.S. Army

Chapter 7Improvised Explosive Device Defeat PlanningConsiderationsThe METT-TC factors are the variables whose infinite mutations always combine toform a new tactical pattern. They never produce exactly the same situation; thus,there can be no checklist that adequately addresses all the situations. Each tacticalproblem is unique and must be solved on its own merits. This chapter provides anoverview of the planning processes of the Army and describes how the commanderand staff integrate IED defeat considerations into unit plans. Additionally, it discussesIPB, targeting, and risk management as additional tools to assist the commander andstaff in integrating IED defeat considerations. This chapter also offers planningconsiderations for IED defeat based on the METT-TC factors. The factors for theconsiderations are not all-inclusive, but serve as a base for further developmentdepending on the situation. Appendix B provides a detailed discussion of IED-defeatrelated considerations during an IPB.SECTION I – PLANNING PROCESSES7-1. As described in Chapter 1, IED defeat operations are part of the broader mission of the unit topredict, detect, prevent, avoid, neutralize, and protect the force from IED attacks. IED defeatconsiderations cut across the BOS and are not tied specifically to a staff cell or type of unit.7-2. Means of integrating IED defeat considerations are the two tactical planning processes of the Army:the military decision-making process (MDMP) and troop-leading procedures (TLP). The MDMP is moreappropriate for HQ with staffs. It provides a logical sequence of interactions and decisions between thecommand and staff for developing estimates and effective plans and orders. At lower tactical echelons,commanders use TLP to plan and prepare for an operation (see FM 5-0). Both planning processes providea logical sequence of understanding the situation, developing and analyzing the COA, deciding on the bestCOA, and producing a plan or order to accomplish the mission.7-3. During the MDMP, commanders play a critical role in planning. After receiving a mission,commanders develop their initial commander’s visualization. They describe this visualization to the staff inthe form of a commander’s intent, a commander’s planning guidance, and a commander’s criticalinformation requirement (CCIR). The staff then uses the commander’s guidance to continue planning. IEDdefeat may have a large impact on a commander’s planning guidance and the CCIR.7-4. The goal of the MDMP is to achieve a faster decision cycle than the threat. Planning considerationsfor increased operational tempo and control of the battlespace will entail an aggressive mindset (becomethe hunter, not the hunted) and rapid responses to the IED threat, both operationally and technologically. Ifthe threat responds to new technologies or procedures, then coalition forces must be able to also rapidlychange TTP and technologies.7-5. Threat centers of gravity must be identified and understood (identify who the bomb maker is at thetactical level). Data collection on IED characteristics and threat tactics place a “signature” on an IED thatshould be tracked and catalogued (identify who the financier is at the strategic level). The funding sourcesare identified, and this threat is addressed at the strategic level of warfare. All C2 assets and supportinfrastructure are leveraged to achieve a faster response time than the threat. The new capabilities neededare identified to overcome a dynamic, changing threat and get new TTP and capabilities into the field as21 September 2005 FMI 3-34.119/MCIP 3-17.01 7-1