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

Chapter 6
6-102. Engineer involvement in combined arms planning for a retrograde operation is critical. The level
of detail developed by the staff and the ENCOORD affects resourcing, task organization, and execution.
Because of the tempo required during the operation, all contingencies must be addressed, war-gamed,
prioritized, and resourced before execution. The tactical situation does not normally facilitate any
significant changes to a plan once the operation is underway. Engineer involvement is of special
importance during the IPB process. Input into the MCOO highlights the terrain effects on the attacking
enemy. Once determined, this product of the terrain analysis impacts the—
� Obstacle positions.
� Required lane locations.
� Decision point positions (to cause lane closure or the execution of situational and reserve
obstacles).
� Counterattack planning.
6-103. The ENCOORD coordinates with the S-2 on engineer-specific IR. The IR are aimed at facilitating
and maximizing the efforts of engineers supporting units conducting the counterreconnaissance fight and
retrograde operation. Considerations include predicting enemy reconnaissance efforts on the SITEMP and
main-body attack routes into the AO. These considerations aid in planning and executing obstacle belts and
groups that support the retrograde operation.
6-104. The identification of routes that the force uses is vital to all retrograde operations. Mobility must
be maintained along these routes. While conducting terrain analysis during the IPB process, the
ENCOORD works closely with the S-2 to determine feasible routes. Once this planning is complete, the
routes are coordinated with the S-3 and the commander to determine which routes are required to meet
operational requirements. With these routes identified, route reconnaissance can be conducted to verify
their trafficability and suitability for the force. Information gained on the reconnaissance is critical during
COA development and analysis. Route selection also affects countermobility planning and execution. Once
the routes are finalized, engineer unit commanders ensure that they are upgraded and maintained as
directed. LOC maintenance typically requires EAB augmentation. Lanes through friendly obstacles must
be established and marked. Every Soldier in the unit must clearly understand the unit lane-marking system.
Guides are frequently left at obstacle lane locations to ensure safe passage. Because of the critical nature of
the mission, commanders must assume the responsibility of providing guides if the mission variables allow.
6-105. A major component in countermobility planning and execution during a retrograde operation is the
synchronization of the warfighting functions. Countermobility missions can only be executed with a clear
understanding of the commander’s intent and concept of the operation. Situational obstacles are a key
combat multiplier to the commander. Situational obstacles, like other engineer operations in retrograde
operations, are normally centrally controlled.
6-106. The maneuver unit may only have limited assets to use for survivability, given the critical
requirements for mobility and countermobility. The survivability that is provided typically focuses on
supporting the protection of key C2 and other critical systems. Selected fighting positions may also be
developed to support key EAs supporting the retrograde. Existing fighting positions that support the
scheme of maneuver of the withdrawal may also be used, but most survivability depends on the effective
use of terrain and other measures (CCD).
6-107. C2 of lane closure is vital to retrograde operations. Normally, lane closure is centrally planned and
executed by the BCT to ensure that mission execution conforms to the commander’s intent and the scheme
of maneuver. Frequently, obstacles identified for closing lanes become brigade reserve obstacles. Lane
closure depends on—
� Enemy and friendly activities.
� Level of contact.
� Size of the force left in contact.
� Engineer forces available.
� Time available.
6-22 FM 3-34.22 11 February 2009