FM 3-34.22 - Army Electronic Publications & Forms - U.S. Army

TYPES
Appendix E
Combined Arms Gap-Crossing Operations
The purpose of a gap-crossing operation is to project combat power across a linear
obstacle (wet or dry) to accomplish a mission. A gap crossing normally requires
special equipment or materials that are limited or nonexistent as organic assets in the
BCT. It is incumbent on engineer planners to highlight the need for augmentation of
additional assets early in the planning process. Those assets are then task-organized
in a manner that best supports the commander’s concept of the operation. This
appendix serves as a quick reference for leaders planning gap-crossing operations.
(See FM 3-90.12 for more detailed information.)
E-1. The three types of gap crossings are deliberate, hasty, and covert. Regardless of the type of crossing,
the planning requirements and engineer technical support are similar. The following text provides a brief
description of each type of crossing. (See table E-1 for a list of gap-crossing fundamentals.)
Table E-1. Gap-crossing fundamentals
Fundamental Description
� Mitigates the vulnerability of an exposed force conducting a crossing by—
Surprise
�
�
Implementing a deception plan.
Enforcing OPSEC measures (camouflage, noise, electromagnetic,
and light discipline).
� Develops an accurate and complete intelligence picture of the enemy and
terrain.
� Plans and initiates deceptive operations early to mask the actual
Extensive preparation
preparation.
� Improves routes and establishes traffic control to handle traffic volume of
the crossing operation.
� Conducts full-scale rehearsals.
� Plans for multiple approach routes from the AA to crossing sites.
� Establishes lateral routes to access alternate crossing sites.
Flexible planning
� Retains crossing equipment in reserve to replace losses or create
alternative sites.
� Uses multiple crossing means and/or methods.
� Prevents target formation.
Traffic control
� Contributes to flexibility by enabling changes in the sequence, timing, or
crossing sites.
� Enables C2 through terrain management.
� Integrates additional functions within existing C2 nodes.
� Organizes the force into an—
Organization
� Assault force (seize the objective farside).
� Assured mobility force (provide the crossing means, traffic control,
and obscuration).
� Bridgehead force.
� Breakout force.
11 February 2009 FM 3-34.22 E-1