BN Pocket Planning Guide

Army National Guard
Battle Command Training Center

Battalion
Pocket Planning Guide
ARNG Battle Command Training Center

Fort Leavenworth, Kansas 66027- 2346
October 2004
Distribution authorized to Army National Guard units and U. S. Government

agencies for official government use. Requests for this document should be
addressed to the Battle Command Training Center.
ARNG POCKET PLANNING GUIDE
ARMY NATIONAL GUARD

BATTLE COMMAND TRAINING CENTER
POCKET PLANNING GUIDE
This publication may be distributed in paper media.
Purpose. The purpose of this document is to provide Army National Guard

Battalions with a reference guide that may be used to prepare for and
conduct unit training and operating requirements. This planning guide
applies to all battalion units and their personal, coordinating, and special
staff groups.
Preparation and Exception Authority. The authorship and construct of this

document resides with the Army National Guard Battle Command Training
Center. Change authorization resides with the commander, BCTC.
Suggested Improvements. Users are invited to send comments and suggested

improvements via E-Mail to web-bctc-training@leavenworth.army.mil or
via a written memorandum to:

8 Sherman Avenue
Fort Leavenworth, Kansas 66027-2346
The Battle Command Training Center will update this publication IAW
ARNG transformation requirements.
LTC Jerry Wood

Commander
Fort Leavenworth, Kansas 66027-2346
© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page i

Fort Leavenworth, KS 66027-2346 www-bctc.army.mil
ARMY NATIONAL GUARD

BATTALION POCKET PLANNING GUIDE
ABOUT THIS GUIDE --------------------------------------------------------- 1
GENERAL STAFF PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS ----------------------- 2
Command and Staff Duties and Responsibilities------------------- 2

Commander ----------------------------------------------------------------------------2
XO Duties and Responsibilities--------------------------------------------------2
S1 Duties and Responsibilities --------------------------------------------------4
Engineer Duties and Responsibilities -----------------------------------------9
Fire Support Officer (FSO) Duties and Responsibilities--------------- 11
Signal Officer’s (SIGO) Duties and Responsibilities-------------------- 13
ADA Officer’s (ADO) Duties and Responsibilities ----------------------- 14
Chemical Officer’s (CHEMO) Duties and Responsibilities------------ 15
Chaplain’s Duties and Responsibilities------------------------------------- 16
CSM Duties and Responsibilities --------------------------------------------- 17
Orders Group Organization ---------------------------------------------- 18
Battalion Battle Rhythm--------------------------------------------------- 18
Rules of Engagement (ROE) --------------------------------------------- 19
Liaison -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 20
Rehearsals--------------------------------------------------------------------- 23
Five Rehearsal Types ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 24
Six Rehearsal Techniques------------------------------------------------------------------ 25
Rehearsal Responsibilities ----------------------------------------------------------------- 27
Backbriefs --------------------------------------------------------------------- 28
Sample Backbrief Format------------------------------------------------------------------- 28
Sample Backbrief Agenda ------------------------------------------------------------------ 29
The Military Decision Making Process (MDMP) ------------------- 30

MDMP Staff Integration ----------------------------------------------------------- 31
Gathering MDMP Tools ----------------------------------------------------------- 33
MDMP Step 1 – Mission Receipt ----------------------------------------------- 34
Commander’s Initial Guidance ------------------------------------------------------------ 34
MDMP Step 2 – Mission Analysis --------------------------------------------- 37
Preparation of a Mission Analysis -------------------------------------------------------- 38
Staff Officer Considerations ---------------------------------------------------------------- 41
© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page ii

Seeing Ourselves ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 42

Seeing the Terrain ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 44
Seeing the Enemy ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46
Commander’s Critical Information Requirements (CCIR) -------------------------- 48
ISR Planning Considerations and Building a Collection Plan --------------------- 49
MDMP Step 3 - Course of Action Development -------------------------- 57
MDMP Step 4 - Course of Action Analysis (War gaming) ------------- 66
War Game Methods -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 66
War Game Techniques ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 68
Sample Wargaming Procedures ---------------------------------------------------------- 69
War Game Tools ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 71
Decision Support Matrix --------------------------------------------------------------------- 75
War Game Briefing --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 75
MDMP Step 5 - Course of Action Comparison---------------------------- 77
MDMP Step 6 - Course of Action Approval -------------------------------- 78
Decision Matrix -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 78
Decision Briefing ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 79
MDMP Step 7 - Orders Production-------------------------------------------- 81
Battalion Orders Briefing -------------------------------------------------------------------- 81
Orders Annexes ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 82
Reproduction and Dissemination --------------------------------------------------------- 83
SPECIAL STAFF PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS----------------------- 84

Fire Support Planning Checklist --------------------------------------- 84
Indirect fire assets ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 85
Artillery Munitions ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 85
Availability of DS Cannon Battalion Fires and Positioning ------------------------- 86
Multiple Launched Rocket System. M270 / M270A1 MLRS Self-Propelled
Loader-Launcher (SPLL)-------------------------------------------------------------------- 87
Planning and Integrating Fires------------------------------------------------------------- 88
NBC Planning Checklist--------------------------------------------------- 91
Smoke Operations Planning Checklist -------------------------------------- 93
Smoke Platoon Capabilities ---------------------------------------------------------------- 93
Smoke Platoon Logistics-------------------------------------------------------------------- 94
Air Defense Planning Checklist----------------------------------------- 95
Engineer Operations Planning Checklist---------------------------- 96
REPORTS ------------------------------------------------------------------- 98
Operations Reports--------------------------------------------------------100
Operations Report (OPREP) -------------------------------------------------- 100
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------100
SALT / SPOT Report (SPOTREP) -------------------------------------------- 101
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------101
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------101
© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page iii

Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------101
FBCB2 Report --------------------------------------------------------------------------------101
Serious Incident Report (SIR) ------------------------------------------------ 103
Contact Report -------------------------------------------------------------------- 105
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------105
Situation Report (SITREP) ----------------------------------------------------- 106
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------106
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------106
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------106
FBCB2 Report --------------------------------------------------------------------------------106
Combat Slant Report ------------------------------------------------------------ 108
Short Slant Report ---------------------------------------------------------------------------108
Long Slant Report----------------------------------------------------------------------------108
Closure Report -------------------------------------------------------------------- 109
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------109
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------109
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------109
Airspace Control Means Request (ACMREQ)--------------------------- 110
Report Number -------------------------------------------------------------------------------110
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------110
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------110
Downed / Missing Aircraft Report------------------------------------------- 111
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------111
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------111
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------111
NBC Reports -----------------------------------------------------------------112

Request for NBC / Smoke Support ----------------------------------------- 112
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------112
NBC 1 Report (Initial Observer Report) ----------------------------------- 113
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------113
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------113
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------113
FBCB2 Report --------------------------------------------------------------------------------113
NBC 2 Report (Evaluated Data Report)------------------------------------ 115
NBC 3 Report (Immediate Warning of Expected Contamination) 116
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------116
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------116
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------116
FBCB2 Report --------------------------------------------------------------------------------116
NBC 4 Report (Report of Radiation Dose Rate Measurement) ---- 117
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------117
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------117
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------117
FBCB2 Report --------------------------------------------------------------------------------117
NBC 5 Report (Report of Areas of Contamination)-------------------- 118
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------118
© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page iv

Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------118
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------118
NBC 6 Report (Detailed Contamination Report)------------------------ 119
CHEMWARN Report ------------------------------------------------------------- 120
Effective Downwind Message Report-------------------------------------- 121
NBC Situation Report (NBC SITREP) -------------------------------------- 122
Engineer Reports-----------------------------------------------------------123
Scatterable Minefield Warning Report (SCATMINWARN) ---------- 123
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------123
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------123
Scatterable Minefield Report and Record (SCATMINREP) --------- 124
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------124
Obstacle Turnover / Transfer Report -------------------------------------- 125
Report for Bridge, Overpass, Culvert, Underpass, or Tunnel
(BRIDGEREP) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 126
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------126
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------126
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------126
FBCB2 Report --------------------------------------------------------------------------------126
Report for Ford, Ferry, or Other Crossing Site (CROSSREP) ----- 128
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------128
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------128
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------128
Obstacle Report------------------------------------------------------------------- 129
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------129
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------129
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------129
FBCB2 Report --------------------------------------------------------------------------------129
Obstacle Request, Intent or Status Report ------------------------------ 131
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------131
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------131
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------131
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------132
Route Reconnaissance Report (ROUTEREP) --------------------------- 133
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------133
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------133
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------133
Closure Report -------------------------------------------------------------------- 134
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------134
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------134
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------134
Bypass Report --------------------------------------------------------------------- 135
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------135
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------135
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------135
Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) Report -------------------------------------- 137
© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page v

Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------137
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------137
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------137
Intelligence Reports -------------------------------------------------------138

Sensitive Item Report ----------------------------------------------------------- 138
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------138
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------138
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------138
Battle Damage Assessment Report (BDAREP)------------------------- 139
Report Number -------------------------------------------------------------------------------139
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------139
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------139
Detained Civilian Personnel Report (DETAINCIVREP) --------------- 140
Report Number -------------------------------------------------------------------------------140
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------140
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------140
R&S Report ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 141
Weather Forecast ----------------------------------------------------------------- 142
Weather Advisory ---------------------------------------------------------------- 143
Request for Information (RFI) ------------------------------------------------ 144
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------144
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------144
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------144
Response to RFI Communication (RRFI) --------------------------------- 145
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------145
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------145
Intelligence Summary (INTSUM)--------------------------------------------- 146
Distribution-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------146
Format: Written INTSUM Format -------------------------------------------------------146
Patrol Report ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 147
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------147
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------147
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------147
EPW / Captured Material Report--------------------------------------------- 148
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------148
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------148
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------148
SAEDA Report --------------------------------------------------------------------- 149
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------149
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------149
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------149
SALUTE “A” Report ------------------------------------------------------------- 150
Debrief Format--------------------------------------------------------------------- 151
Personnel Reports ---------------------------------------------------------153

Personnel Status Report (PERSTAT) -------------------------------------- 153
© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page vi

Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------153
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------153
Analog Format --------------------------------------------------------------------------------153
FBCB2 PERSTAT Report -----------------------------------------------------------------154
Personnel SPOT Report -------------------------------------------------------- 156
Casualty Report ------------------------------------------------------------------- 157
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------157
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------157
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------157
MEDEVAC Request -------------------------------------------------------------- 158
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------158
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------158
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------158
FBCB2 MEDEVAC Message -------------------------------------------------------------160
Medical Situation Report (MEDSITREP) ---------------------------------- 162
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------162
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------162
Analog Format --------------------------------------------------------------------------------162
Casualty Feeder Report -------------------------------------------------------- 164
Logistics Reports ----------------------------------------------------------165

Logistics Status Report (LOGSTAT) --------------------------------------- 165
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------165
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------165
Format (FBCB2 Report) --------------------------------------------------------------------165
Battle Loss Report --------------------------------------------------------------- 168
AMMO Status / Request -------------------------------------------------------- 169
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------169
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------169
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------169
POL Status / Request ----------------------------------------------------------- 170
Purpose-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------170
Instructions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------170
Format ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------170
REFERENCES--------------------------------------------------------------171
© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page vii

List of Figures
Battalion Battle Rhythm----------------------------------------------------------------- 18

What to Gain From a Rehearsal ------------------------------------------------------ 24
Rehearsal Relationships ---------------------------------------------------------------- 26
Terrain Model Rehearsal Tools ------------------------------------------------------- 27
Sample Rehearsal Schedule----------------------------------------------------------- 28
Military Decision Making Process Diagram -------------------------------------- 30
Battalion Staff Integration and the MDMP----------------------------------------- 32
Gathering Tools Reference Sheet --------------------------------------------------- 33
Input-Process-Output Diagram (Mission Receipt) ----------------------------- 34
Sample Commander’s Guidance Checklist--------------------------------------- 35
Sample Actions After Receipt of Mission ----------------------------------------- 36
Input-Process-Output Diagram (Mission Analysis) ---------------------------- 37
Preparing a Mission Analysis --------------------------------------------------------- 38
Finding Tasks in the OPORD ---------------------------------------------------------- 42
Nesting Graphic---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 43
Sample Decision Graphic of Assets Available ---------------------------------- 43
Available Assets Worksheet----------------------------------------------------------- 44
Building a MCOO -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 45
Sample Enemy Template --------------------------------------------------------------- 47
Sample Situation Template ------------------------------------------------------------ 47
Sample Event Template ----------------------------------------------------------------- 48
Developing a Battalion Collection Plan -------------------------------------------- 49
Collection Plan Development Checklist ------------------------------------------- 51
ISR Plan Development Diagram ------------------------------------------------------ 52
Sample ISR Cycle ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 53
Sample Mission Analysis Worksheet----------------------------------------------- 55
Sample Mission Analysis Briefing Format---------------------------------------- 56
Input-Process-Output Diagram (COA Development) -------------------------- 57
Sample Analysis of Relative Combat Power ------------------------------------- 58
Arraying Initial Forces ------------------------------------------------------------------- 60
Step 1. Depict terrain--------------------------------------------------------------------- 62
Step 2. Array the enemy----------------------------------------------------------------- 63
Step 3. Apply higher HQ graphics --------------------------------------------------- 63
Step 4. Sample COA Statement and Sketch-------------------------------------- 64
Sample COA Briefing Format --------------------------------------------------------- 65
Input-Process-Output Diagram (COA Analysis) -------------------------------- 66
Representation During Directed and Hasty War Game Methods---------- 67
Staff Inputs to Wargaming ------------------------------------------------------------- 73
Sample War Game Worksheet -------------------------------------------------------- 74
Sample Synchronization Matrix ------------------------------------------------------ 74
Sample Decision Support Matrix----------------------------------------------------- 75
Sample Briefing Order and Setup---------------------------------------------------- 76
Input-Process-Output Diagram (COA Comparison) --------------------------- 77
Input-Process-Output Diagram (COA Approval)-------------------------------- 78
Sample Relative Value Decision Matrix -------------------------------------------- 78
© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page viii

Sample COA Decision Briefing ------------------------------------------------------- 80

Input-Process-Output Diagram (Orders Production)-------------------------- 81
Sample Orders Briefing Format ------------------------------------------------------ 82
Weather Conditions and NBC --------------------------------------------------------- 93
Sample OPREP--------------------------------------------------------------------------- 100
Sample SALT / SPOTREP (FBCB2)------------------------------------------------ 102
Sample SITREP (FBCB2)-------------------------------------------------------------- 107
Sample NBC 1 Report (FBCB2) ----------------------------------------------------- 114
Sample NBC 2 Report------------------------------------------------------------------ 115
Sample NBC 6 Report------------------------------------------------------------------ 119
Sample CHEMWARN Report--------------------------------------------------------- 120
Sample Effective Downwind Message Report --------------------------------- 121
Sample Obstacle Turnover / Transfer -------------------------------------------- 125
Sample BRIDGEREP (FBCB2)------------------------------------------------------- 127
Sample Obstacle Report (FBCB2) ------------------------------------------------- 130
Sample Bypass Report ---------------------------------------------------------------- 136
Sample R&S Report -------------------------------------------------------------------- 141
Sample Weather Forecast ------------------------------------------------------------ 142
Sample Weather Advisory------------------------------------------------------------ 143
Sample Graphic INTSUM-------------------------------------------------------------- 146
Sample SALUTE A Report------------------------------------------------------------ 150
Sample Personnel Status Report (FBCB2) ------------------------------------- 154
Sample Personnel SPOT Report --------------------------------------------------- 156
Dialog Box on BCOPS Screen (FBCB2) ----------------------------------------- 160
Sample MEDEVAC Request (FBCB2)--------------------------------------------- 161
Sample Medical SITREP (FBCB2)-------------------------------------------------- 162
Sample Casualty Feeder Report---------------------------------------------------- 164
Sample LOGSTAT Report (FBCB2)------------------------------------------------ 166
Sample Battle Loss Report----------------------------------------------------------- 168
© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page ix

ABOUT THIS GUIDE

The Pocket Planning Guide is not an all-encompassing reference to
planning. It is not intended to replace FM 5-0, Army Planning and Orders
Production, or FM 101-5, Staff Organization and Planning. Rather, it
provides a condensed, pocket size, planning reference that commanders and
staff officers can use during training for or execution of operational and
tactical events, if they do not already have one. References to unit command
and staff members are gender non-specific.
While FM 5-0 and 101-5 are the principal references used in preparation of
this guide, a regurgitation of these documents is not provided. It is expected
that commanders and staffs will refer to these and other doctrinal references
as added detail and example are required. Numerous unit Tactical Standing
Operating Procedures (TACSOP) were referred to in the build of this guide
and selections provided as applicable.
The guide addresses three principal reference areas, General Staff Planning
Considerations that includes the MDMP, Special Staff Planning
Considerations that includes specific special staff checklists, and Reports
that provides examples of 54 reports a battalion may find the need to use.
Unit staff personnel are encouraged to refer to the guide for examples and
doctrinal direction.
All graphics contained in this guide may be viewed at the BCTC AKO
Collaboration Website.
The BCTC AKO Collaboration Website may be accessed as follows:

Go to BCTC website at www-bctc.army.mil
Select “Enter the BCTC Website” button
Select “The Azimuth” button
Select the “AKO” link, or go to
https://www.us.army.mil/portal/jhtml/community.jhtml?cpid=20485690
03 and sign in
Select “Communities Map”
Scroll down and select “TRADOC”
On next screen, scroll down and select “Ft. Leavenworth”
Select “BCTC”
Select “BCTC TAFT Section” (bottom right of collaboration window)
Select “Pocket Planning Guide”
© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page 1

GENERAL STAFF PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS

Planning requires creative application of doctrine, tactics, techniques,
procedures, units, and resources. It also requires a thorough knowledge and
application of the fundamentals of full-spectrum operations. Planning
constitutes the development of plans within the commander’s intent and
planning guidance and includes identifying the decisive operation and
envisioning how shaping and sustaining operations support it.
Command and Staff Duties and Responsibilities
Following are command and staff duties and responsibilities presented in the
unique context of, “what the staff officer needs to know from the
commander”, and “what the commander needs to know from the staff
officer.” The following lists provide core duties and responsibilities. Each
unit may have many more to add.
Commander
The commander must decide what has to be done and the best method to get
it done, then lead his unit through mission accomplishment. Regarding
planning, the commander:
Sets the standards for training the staff
Drives the deliberate planning process
Performs the key steps in each step of the MDMP process
Directs courses of action (COA)
Is the link between the analytical MDMP and the reality of battlefield
execution
XO Duties and Responsibilities

The XO, as the second in command, is normally (but not always the case)
the battalion commander's assistant in coordinating and synchronizing the
staff.
What the XO needs to know from the battalion commander:

How the battalion commander plans to use him
Responsibilities in tactical operations including TOC operations
What is the division of labor between the XO and the S3
Decision making authority for the commander / command structure
Commander's standing CCIR, intent, and guidance for planning
Command philosophy

What the Battalion Commander needs to know from the XO:

Operating policies and procedures
Staff coordinated recommendations
Current status of CBT, CS, and CSS assets within the task force
Status of available resources
Operating budget
Unit Status Report
Personnel
Materiel readiness

S1 Duties and Responsibilities
The S1 is a vital link in the commander's staff as he assists in supervising the

health, morale, and general welfare of the battalion.
What the S1 needs to know from the Battalion Commander:

Mission
Commander's concept of operation
Commander's intent
Task organization
The enemy situation
Time available
Chain of command
How the commander can be located
Rehearsal time and location
Priorities for planning
What the Battalion Commander needs to know from the S1:

S1 estimate
Number of casualties by maneuver unit at expected enemy contact
locations
Status on the delivery of replacements and RTD soldiers
Unit combat power
Ability to execute future operations based on present combat strength
Duty status of soldiers
Casualty reports
Location of the PAC
Emergency medical and preventive medicine measures
Reconstitution plan
Deployment status

The S2 provides the intelligence and counterintelligence functions for the

battalion. His success depends to a large extent on the relationship developed
between himself, the Commander, and the S3. If the S3 and Commander do
not have confidence in the S2, then tactical plans will not be focused on the
enemy and may subsequently fail. This point is critical, because in garrison
the S2 and S3 seldom interact, yet in the tactical environment they must
work together and have confidence in one another. The Commander and S3
must ensure that a relationship is developed that quickly instills this mutual
confidence

Mission
Commander's concept of operation
Commander's intent
High payoff targets
Commander's PIR, including standing / initial PIR
Time available
Assets available for R & S
Chain of command

S2 estimate
Weather, enemy, terrain, effects on operations
Location of antitank positions, crew served weapons, individual vehicle
positions, and dismounted infantry
Location of known and templated barriers, obstacles, minefields
Intelligence
Enemy avenue(s) of approach
Combat information
Recommended priority intelligence requirements
Command's reconnaissance - surveillance target acquisition assets
R & S plan
Counterintelligence measures

The S3, as the battalion's operations officer, is the Commander's main

assistant in coordinating and planning the battle. Note that the Commander
must clearly define roles for the XO and S3 dependent on the tactical
situation and operational requirements.

How the Commander plans to use him
S3’s relationship with the command structure and the XO
Commander's intent / planning guidance / priorities
Time available

Current operation estimate
Command resource allocation priorities including time, personnel,
supplies, and equipment.
Proposed task organization and mission responsibilities of subordinate
units
Proposed tactical maneuver, dispositions, and fire schemes
General locations of command posts
Overview of EW, PSYOP, OPSEC, deception activities, CMO, and rear
area protection measures, and IO considerations regarding ROE
Overview of airspace considerations
Unit training requirements
Proposed unit training programs / budget / resource allocations
Unit readiness status
Rehearsal schedules

The sustainment of the battalion is the primary responsibility of the S4. He

must work closely with the command and staff structure.

Mission statement
Concept of the operation
Brigade and Battalion Commander's intent
The enemy and friendly situation
Priority of fires and effort
Priority of maintenance support
Priority of Classes III and V supply and priority for the tailoring of
emergency resupply in the combat trains
Any special ammunition requirements
Mission essential tasks for each task force unit
Maneuver control measures
Time line for operation (phases)
Future operations / next mission
Obstacle plan / special needs for target reference point markers in the
defense
Chain of command, how the Battalion Commander can be located
Rehearsal schedule
Axis of advance and the enemy avenue(s) of approach
Resupply time line / pause for recovery

Input during mission analysis and on all courses of action (COA), to
include supportability of COAs (medical, maintenance, emergency
resupply)
Key CSS constraints and limitations
Does the S4 understand the mission and tactical concept?
Positioning of assets and units to support operations
Organization of trains (echelon versus unit)
Status of combat health support plan
Does plan allow CSS functions to be performed as far forward as
possible?
Is the main effort weighted?
Unit's fuel / ammunition / maintenance / Class IV barrier material
requirements versus on-hand and available
Current status and expected line of departure / defend by time status
Class VII weapon system loss estimate
Transportation requirements / routes / capabilities

Adequacy of command and control facilities for directing CSS activities

Is retransmission needed to talk to BSA / field trains?
Night operation measures / considerations
Rehearsal schedule
How are slice elements and other elements supported under task force
control?
How are the scouts and counter-reconnaissance (in defense) supported?
Resupply method of distribution

Engineer Duties and Responsibilities
Engineers provide the Commander with the technical skills and equipment
needed to execute the mobility, counter-mobility, and survivability
requirements of the battalion.
What the Engineer needs to know from the Battalion Commander:

Mission
Concept of operation
Commander's intent
The enemy situation
The friendly situation
Any special munitions (FASCAM, smoke)
Time available
Chain of command
How the Commander can be located
Axis of advance
Location where the Commander wants to kill the enemy (targeted areas
of interest, EA)
Targeted elements (and intent for situational obstacles)
Priorities for employing mobility, counter-mobility, and survivability
measures
Obstacle intent, i.e., to turn, fix, block, or disrupt
What the Battalion Commander needs to know from the Engineer:

Does he understand the concept of operations
Engineer estimate
Barrier material requirements
Mine laying capabilities
Blade hours available
Target turnover criteria
What problems he anticipates in implementing the Battalion
Commander's plan
Has he coordinated with the FSO and S3 to ensure that obstacles are
covered by fire?
Priority assets the engineer does not control
Has he coordinated his terrain analysis with the S2 and S3?
What equipment does he have direct access to?
Plan for use of assets (equipment, Class IV, platoons)

Plan for tracking engineer work (obstacle emplacement, survivability

positions)
Specified and implied tasks
Input to and assessment of COAs
Enemy employment of engineer assets
Engineer participation in rehearsals (particularly breaching)
The Engineer should have the following information posted in the TOC or
on templates:
Dozer blades available
Mines - Class V
Barrier material - Class IV
Situational obstacle information
Demolitions status
Mine detectors, etc. status
Supply points, etc.
IPB NAI / MSR / route clearance operations
Planned, expected, % complete obstacles
Areas of responsibilities / task organization
Planned, completed survivability %’s (red, green, amber)

Fire Support Officer (FSO) Duties and Responsibilities
The Commander, quite literally, calls the shots. He should make sure that his
intent is known to the FSO during the planning phase of the operation. The
Commander must use all of the people and equipment at his control to insure
that he gets the most from his fire support system. Advanced planning is
important. Once the enemy is stopped, the commander must consider his
next actions. He should be frugal in planning and not create an
unmanageable number of targets.
Communication is the key to success between the fire planner and the
maneuver commander. The process must be continual and the intent of both
parties understood. To assist in this process, the following information
checklists are provided. Some of the questions will require input from the
Commander, others will require special staff input, while many will require a
coordinated staff solution.
What the FSO needs to know from the Battalion Commander:

Mission Commander's concept of operation
Commander's intent
The enemy situation
The friendly situation
Purpose of fires
Guidance for selection of high payoff targets
Priority of fires
BN and BDE EFST for FA and mortars
Any special fires (preparation, FPF, illumination)
Fire coordination signals
Any special munitions (FASCAM, smoke)
Commander's maneuver control measures
Time available
Obstacle plan and EAs (where the CDR visualizes killing the enemy)
Chain of command
Axis of advance
Ammunition resupply procedures

What the Battalion Commander needs to know from the FSO:

His targeting capabilities
Recommended EFSTs for mortars / cannon
All fire support assets available
Ability of fire support assets to meet defeat criteria as stated in the
Commander's attack guidance
Nomination of HPTs
His evaluation of high payoff targets
Are fire control measures synchronized with maneuver control
measures?
Are ammunition pre-stocks available?
Is fire support coordinated with the obstacle plan?
Who will position and control fire support assets?
How will he provide continuous support to the maneuver force?
How long to first round / shift targets / displace
Is fire support tied in with direct fire, CAS, EW, and ADA?
Has he coordinated with the S2 / S3 / Signal officer to reduce FSE
electronic signature?
Plan to integrate mortars into fire support plan

Signal Officer’s (SIGO) Duties and Responsibilities
The importance of communications for effective command and control

cannot be overemphasized. If the Commander is planning for a
communications system, he should be guided by the types and amount of
equipment that are available. All C-E assets available throughout the
command must be considered. This includes equipment in the signal unit as
well as the C-E equipment and personnel assigned to the battalion.
What the SIGO needs to know from the Battalion Commander:

Mission
Commander's intent
The enemy situation
Any special fires (preparation, FPF, illumination)
Time available
Chain of command
Communication / equipment requirements
What the Battalion Commander needs to know from the SIGO:

Communication equipment status
Communication resources available
Communication support available (mobile subscriber equipment
coverage)
Special / additional training requirements
Modifications in SOIs
Frequency changes / alternate means of communications
Anti-jamming plan
RETRANS capability

ADA Officer’s (ADO) Duties and Responsibilities
The infantry battalion's main air defense asset is a passive measure:

remaining undetected. If support is provided from the divisional ADA
battalion, the following information checklists will ensure all key ADA-
related issues are addressed.
What the ADO needs to know from the Battalion Commander:

Commander's intent and scheme of maneuver
Nature and scope of assigned tactical missions
Air defense priorities
Priority of air corridors
Can ADA elements with GS mission provide incidental coverage over
the battalion area?
Positions of friendly forces in proximity of air defense teams
Aviation assets and A2C2 controls or considerations
What the Battalion Commander needs to know from the ADO:

Recommended air defense priorities
Number, type, and positioning of ADA weapons defending key assets
ADA task organization
Terrain and weather factors and limitations impacting on air defense
plan
Threat characteristics and tactics impacting on air defense plan
Number of types of ADA weapons available to each defense
Weapon system requirements, limitations, characteristics, impacting on
air defense plan
Specified and implied tasks
Input to and assessment of COAs
An effective early warning plan
Weapons control status and air defense warning status
OPSEC plan for ADA assets

Chemical Officer’s (CHEMO) Duties and Responsibilities
The CHEMO provides valuable expertise in the employment of nuclear,

biological, and chemical weapons on the integrated battlefield.
What the CHEMO needs to know from the Battalion Commander:

Mission
Commander's intent
Intent for fighting contaminated
(Commander's) acceptable loss criteria
Decontamination priorities / concerns
Employment considerations for NBC reconnaissance
Time available
Obstacle plan
Chain of command
Axis of advance
What the Battalion Commander needs to know from the CHEMO:

Does he understand the operational concept?
CHEMO’s criteria for these assessments:
enemy's use of chemical weapons
enemy's use of nuclear weapons
CHEMO’s evaluation of the battalion monitoring teams' readiness
CHEMO’s assessment of potential downwind vapor hazards
CHEMO’s recommendations on employment / missions of attached
NBC assets, if applicable
Decontamination (to include priorities) and smoke operation plans
Templated chemical strikes
CHEMO’s identification of NBC reconnaissance mission(s)
CHEMO’s assessment of the use / impact of enemy smoke operations

Chaplain’s Duties and Responsibilities
The chaplain provides the Commander, the staff, and the soldiers with
religious support and pastoral care.
What the Chaplain needs to know from the Battalion Commander:

Mission and impact on unit and soldiers
Commander's concept of the operation
Commander's intent
The enemy situation
Time available
Chain of command
Task organization
Transportation and communication support
What the Battalion Commander needs to know from the Chaplain:

Religious support plan
Issues dealing with ethics, morals, and morale as affected by religion
Impact of local religious groups and sites on planned military operations
Any special religious accommodation requests from soldiers
Any humanitarian issues arising from indigenous groups
Location of the UMT
Communication link to battalion UMT
How additional religious support assets can be obtained if needed

CSM Duties and Responsibilities
The CSM is the Commander's eyes and ears. A CSM has no conflicts of
interest. He is dedicated to assisting the Commander in directing the unit
towards the successful accomplishment of the mission.
What the CSM needs to know from the Battalion Commander:

Commander's intent
Command philosophy
Commander's expectations of a CSM
How the Commander defines the CSM's job in the unit
Command focus
What the Battalion Commander needs to know from the CSM:

Training status of unit soldiers and leaders
Welfare, morale, and satisfaction of enlisted members within battalion
Administration recommendations regarding assignments, discipline,
training, awards and decorations, and uniform regulation relevant to
enlisted soldiers of the command
Input on equal opportunity policies established within the unit
Potential combat technical and tactical deficiencies in the unit and
suggestions for improvement

Orders Group Organization
There are three orders groups that may be called at any time:
Orders Group A Orders Group B Orders Group C

TF CDR TF CDR TF CDR
TF XO
TF S3 TF XO TF XO
TF S2 TF Primary Staff TF Staff
TF S4
FSO CO CDR’s CDR’s & FSO’s
CO CDR’s SEP PLT LDR’s SEP PLT DR’s
Battalion Battle Rhythm
Establishing an event rhythm directly affects command and staff efficiency

and effectiveness.
Battalion Battle Rhythm
TIME EVENT RESULT PROPONENT
0500
0530 CO/SLICE SENSITIVE ITEMS 100% ACCOUNTABILITY OR BATTLE

REPORT DUE TO TF TOC NOTIFICATION TO CDR CAPTAIN
0630 OPREP AND SENSITIVE ITEMS BDE UPDATED AS PER RPT BATTLE
REPORT DUE TO BDE CAPTAIN
0700 TF CDR’S CONFERENCE CALL CDR UPDATED ON PAST & NEXT 24 SIGO
HRS. CO. CDRS RECEIVED GUIDANCE,
RAISED CONCERNS, AND REPORTED
SENSITIVE ITEMS. CDR PREPARED FOR
BDE CONFERENCE CALL
0730 TF TARGETING MEETING
(XO, S3, S2, FSO, OTHERS A/R)
0800 BDE CDR’S CONFERENCE BN CDR RECEIVED GUIDANCE AND SIGO

CALL RAISED CONCERNS
1100
1130 CDR’S NARRATIVE (CHARLIE WRITTEN RECORD OF PAST & NEXT 24 BATTLE
RPT) TO BDE HRS ACTIVITIES CAPTAIN
1300 TF TARGETING MEETING UPDATED HPTL, TARGETING SYNC XO OR S3

(XO, S3, S2, FSO, OTHERS A/R) MATRIX, AND FRAGO
1400 OPREP DUE FROM TF UNITS 100% ACCOUNTABILITY OR BATTLE

NOTIFICATION TO CDR CAPTAIN
1430 FRAGO FROM TARGETING UPDATED TARGETING S3

MEETING TO COMPANIES PRIORITIES
1500 OPREP DUE TO BDE BDE UPDATED AS PER RPT BATTLE

CAPTAIN
1700
1800 CO/SLICE SENSITIVE 100% ACCOUNTABILITY OR BATTLE

ITEMS NOTIFICATION TO CDR CAPTAIN
REPORT DUE TO TF TOC

Rules of Engagement (ROE)
Following is sample guidance that may be useful. It is not intended as unit

doctrine.
Soldiers must become familiar with the application of force. Today’s

multitude of scenarios places our soldiers in unfamiliar and oftentimes
confusing situations. The following four rules are the basic foundation for
rules of engagement. These should be followed in the absence of more
specific guidance. The four rules interlock; one rule does not apply to the
exclusion of the others. The chain of command may supplement one or
more of these rules to permit accomplishment of a mission. In such a case,
these rules should guide your judgment only to the extent that they do not
conflict with the instructions of your chain of command.
When facing a potential threat, exercise initiative as well as restraint. Any

weapons fire must be disciplined and aimed, while also effective in
achieving self-defense. When encountering a potential threat, remember
“return fire with aimed fire”, “anticipate attack”, “measure the amount of
force you use…”, “protect with deadly force…” (R-A-M-P). This keyword
will help you respond in a way that protects lives, supports the mission, and
complies with the law.
Return fire with aimed fire. Return force with force. You always have the
right, when in danger, to repel hostile acts with necessary force. “Return
fire” means that if you have been fired on or otherwise attacked, you may do
what you must to protect yourself or fellow soldiers.
Anticipate attack. Use force first if, but only if, you see clear indicators of
hostile intent. This means that self-defense is not limited to returning fire.
Soldiers do not have to receive the first shot before using force to protect
themselves and other’s lives. When soldiers initiate the use of force to
defend themselves, they use what is known as “anticipatory” or
“preemptive” force. During non-combat operations, unless ordered
otherwise, you must use anticipatory or preemptive force only when you face
an imminent threat of attack and can identify or describe to yourself certain
clear indicators of hostile intent. Determine whether someone’s intentions
are hostile by considering the same factors you use when reporting enemy
information to your leader under the SALUTE format.
Size. How many individuals are you facing?
Activity. What is he doing? Pointing a weapon?
Location. Is he within small arms range? In a prepared fighting
position? Has he entered a restricted area?

Unit. Is he wearing a uniform? Part of an organized armed force?

Time. How soon before he is upon you?
Equipment. Is he armed? If so with what? What is the range and
lethality of his weapon?
Measure the amount of force that you use, if time and circumstances
permit. Use only the amount of force necessary to protect lives and
accomplish the mission. As a soldier - a professional in the use of force -
you are expected to adjust the intensity, magnitude and duration of your
force to fit the scale of threat that you face. Excessive force endangers
innocent lives and hinders mission accomplishment. If possible, apply a
graduated escalation of force, particularly when facing civilian crowds that
appear to be unarmed, but also unfriendly. In handling potentially hostile
situations, use one or more of the actions in V-E-W-P-R-I-K.
Verbal warning. Tell person(s), in their language, if possible, to
disperse, stay away, or halt.
Exhibit weapon. Show your weapon or use some other display that you
have superior force at your disposal.
Warning shot. Shoot a warning shot, if authorized.
Pepper spray. Spray cayenne pepper spray, if authorized and available
and the individual is close enough.
Riot stick. Strike with riot stick, if authorized and available and if the
individual is close enough. Poke fleshy parts of the body first, arms and
legs next, and, if necessary, escalate to striking the head.
Injure with fire. Shoot to wound.
Kill with fire. Shoot to kill.
Protect with deadly force only human life and property designated by
your commander. Stop short of deadly force when protecting other
property.
These four rules (RAMP) operate as an escalation scale when conditions

grow more hostile and the situation develops into combat. RAMP states the
rules by which you increase your level of force to meet the threat.
Liaison
Purpose. The purpose of this section is to outline the responsibilities and

equipment necessary for personnel designated as liaison officers / NCOs.
This section is applicable to personnel serving adjacent and higher units, as
well as personnel attached to this unit.

General. The liaison officer / NCO represents the Commander at the

headquarters of another unit. He is responsible for effecting coordination
and for promoting cooperation between the two units. As the Commander’s
direct representative, it is imperative that the selected individual possess
certain qualities:
Bearing. The liaison officer / NCO is the standard bearer for his unit.
Personal appearance, physical fitness, technical / tactical expertise, and
professionalism are key to ensuring that the liaison officer / NCO gives
a lasting first impression.
Briefing Skills. The liaison officer / NCO will often be required to brief
the gaining unit on various topics. He must articulate and possess good
briefing skills.
Aggressiveness. The information flow is critical to liaison officers /
NCO’s success. He must be aggressive in gathering information and
ensure it flows properly to the right people.
Responsibilities for establishing liaison are:

Lower to higher
Left to right
Supporting to supported
Rear to front
Moving to stationary.
Duties. Listed below are the specified duties of the liaison officer / NCO.
They have been broken down into actions taken prior to departure, during
execution of the mission and actions taken upon return. This list is not all-
inclusive but does provide a solid base to facilitate planning once notified
that a liaison officer / NCO will be required.
Duties prior to departure:

Obtain information from each staff section on unit’s status.
Understand mission and unit capabilities.
Ensure arrangements for communication and transportation will meet
mission requirements.
Should be licensed to operate a vehicle even if assigned a driver.
Obtain necessary credentials for identification.
Check language / interpreter requirements.
Whenever possible, deploy as a liaison team. (OIC and NCOIC).

Duties during assignment:

Keep informed on the situation of own unit and make that information
available to the Commander and staff.
Keep an accurate record of reports.
Report on all matters within the scope of the mission.
Aggressively seek out information and ensure it reaches the proper
people.
Establish communication with parent unit.
Provide credentials and obtain badges if necessary.
Report to S3 battle captain and provide update.
Arrange for classified material storage.
Visit each staff / BOS section and exchange information.
Attend all briefings and be prepared to brief unit status/plans.
Monitor parent unit Command Net and status (informs supported
commander).
Ensure supported commander receives parent unit's reports.
Ensure parent unit receives supported commander’s FRAGO / OPORD.
Deliver messages between parent and supported units, as required.
Duties upon return:

Brief your Commander on information reference the mission of higher
headquarters, unit locations, future operations, and commander’s intent.
Transmit mission requirements and / or requests for information
Brief staff sections as to detailed information received during the
assignment
Prepare a trip report, if applicable, to ensure that “lessons learned” are
recorded for others who may be required to serve as a liaison officer /
NCO in the future.
At a minimum, the TF should provide one LNO team to the BCT Main CP.
LNO Supporting Analog Unit:

Have the means of following operations in the analog unit (paper maps
with overlays, necessary communications, printed orders, and prompt
access to changes and FRAGOs)
Manually create the analog unit blue and red situational understanding
(SU) and transmit them back to the brigade via digital means
Confirm that any fire support coordination measures are understood at
the parent brigade headquarters
Coordinate actions between the two elements using appropriate
communication system.

Liaison with civilian authorities and organizations. Command Group and

staff will:
Specify what information the liaison team will provide and what
information they will protect
Direct what, when, how to report, duration of the mission, limitations on
release of information and authority to commit the TF to specific actions
Arrange for movement, link-up, and support for liaison teams sent to
civilian authorities and organizations. If interpreters are necessary, the
S3 will coordinate for them before the liaison team joins its supported
organization.
Team chiefs should:

Assure the security and logistical support of their teams on site
Understand their mission, the nature of the organization they’re
supporting and the TF commander’s intent and CCIR
Promptly provide critical information to the TF TOC
Closely follow the tactical situation
Maintain constant communication with the TF TOC
Safeguard classified information including sensitive tactical information
pertaining to TF operations.
Keep supported organization’s leadership informed about LNO
whereabouts and duties.
Be able to rejoin the TF headquarters on short notice.
Rehearsals
The TF rehearses its operations as part of the MDMP. FM 6-0 provides

doctrinal guidance for rehearsals. The doctrinal definition of rehearsals is
stated in FM 6-0 as, “the act or process of practicing an action to prepare for
the actual performance. Rehearsing key combat actions before execution
allows participants to become familiar with the operation and to translate the
relatively dry recitation of the tactical plan into visual impression. This
visual impression helps them orient themselves to their environment and
other units when executing the operation. Moreover, the repetition of
combat tasks during the rehearsal leaves a lasting mental picture of the
sequence of key actions within the operation.” Rehearsals have proven to
have a dramatic effect on battlefield results.
It is important that the commander and staff understand what they want from
a rehearsal. Consider the following.

What to Gain From a Rehearsal
Commander able to present his Seeing the enemy, terrain,

intent and guidance directly to
Visualize and friendly units and
subordinates and gain their their relationships
support and understanding
Motivate Rehearsal Clarify
Ensure that all subordinates

The arrangement of military understand the mission
actions in time, space, and and their supporting
purpose to produce maximum roles
relative combat power at
a decisive place and time Synchronize
(FM 1-02)
Five Rehearsal Types
Confirmation Brief. Routinely performed by a subordinate leader

immediately after receiving any instructions, such as a OPORD, a FRAGO,
etc. The higher commander is briefed on their understanding of his intent,
their specific task and purpose, and the relationship between their unit’s
missions and other units in the operation. (FM 6-0)
Backbrief. Normally performed throughout the MDMP. This rehearsal

allows the commander to clarify his intent early in the subordinate’s tactical
estimate procedure. It allows the higher commander to: 1) identify problems
in his concept of operation; 2) identify problems in a subordinate unit
commander’s concept; and 3) learn how subordinates intend to accomplish
their mission. (FM 6-0)
Combined Arms Rehearsal. Normally conducted by a maneuver unit

headquarters after subordinate units have issued their OPORD. This
rehearsal ensures that subordinate plans are synchronized with other units,
and that the plans of all subordinate commanders will achieve the intent of
the higher commander. (FM 6-0) Units should strive to conduct combined
arms rehearsals whenever possible.

Support Rehearsal. Units usually perform support rehearsals within the

framework of a single or limited number of operating systems (e.g., FS or
CSS rehearsals). Support rehearsals are designed to ensure that the specific
BOS can support the higher commander’s plan and accomplish all assigned
missions, and to synchronize the particular BOS plan with the maneuver
plan. (FM 6-0)
Battle Drill / SOP Rehearsal. Conducted to ensure that all participants

understand a technique or a specific set of procedures. This type of rehearsal
is performed at all echelons (most extensively at platoon, squad, and
section). They are performed throughout the MDMP timeline. (FM 6-0)
Six Rehearsal Techniques
Full Dress. Produces the most detailed understanding of the mission.

Involves every soldier and system participating in the operation. Is the most
time and resource intensive technique.
Reduced Force. Involves only the unit’s and subordinate unit’s key leaders.
Is less time and resource intensive than the full dress rehearsal.
Terrain Model. The most popular rehearsal technique. Requires less

resources and time than the full dress or reduced force rehearsals. The
commander determines the level of leader involvement. Model must be
accurate and in sufficient detail to allow battlefield visualization.
Sketch Map. Can be used almost anywhere day or night. You use the same
procedures as the terrain model technique, except the commander uses a
sketch in place of the model. Sketch must be large enough for all
participants to see as each subordinate commander walks through the verbal
interactive execution of the operation.
Map. Similar to the sketch map rehearsal, except the commander uses a
map and operations overlay of the same scale as being used to plan and
control the fight. (This technique is generally the least effective because of
map scale.)
Network. Conducted by interactively and verbally executing critical

portions of the operation over established communications networks. The
commander establishes a general sequence of events. The unit rehearses only
the essential, most-critical portions of the operation.

The following figure depicts the relationships between the six rehearsal
techniques and the amount of preparation/resources required, time used,
OPSEC risk, leadership participation and the amount of detailed
understanding that the participants will likely gain.
Rehearsal Relationships

As previously stated, the most popular type of rehearsal technique is the

terrain model. In order for this technique to be effective, the following tools
must be incorporated:
Terrain Model Rehearsal Tools
Rehearsal Responsibilities
Planning. In his initial guidance, the commander provides the type of

rehearsal, technique, place, attendees and enemy COA to be portrayed. The
XO ensures all rehearsals are imbedded in the unit’s time management
system. (FM 6-0, pg F-7)
Preparation. The commander, ideally, prepares to rehearse the mission

with events phased in proper order from start to finish. The XO, through
war-gaming, coordinates and allocates time for the key events requiring a
rehearsal; establishes time limits; verifies site preparation; and determines
method for controlling the rehearsal and ensures its logical flow.
Subordinate leaders, complete their planning process. Higher headquarters,
de-conflicts all sub unit graphics and publishes composite overlays.
Execution. The commander must command the rehearsal, just as he will

command the fight, maintaining focus and level of intensity, allowing
absolutely no potential for subordinate confusion. The rehearsal’s purpose is
to validate synchronization – the what, when, and where of subordinate
unit’s tasks to execute the commander’s intent. The XO should direct the
rehearsal. The S3 assists the commander in the fight forward and should
rehearse that task. The S2 bases his execution actions on the enemy COA the
commander selected during the planning process. Subordinate leaders
articulate their units’ actions and responsibilities. Recorder restates any

changes, coordination or clarification. The staff updates the OPORD, the

DST, and the synchronization matrix. (FM 6-0, pgs F-9, 10)
Rehearsal Group Attendees

TF Commander
TF XO
TF CSM
TF Staff
Company Commanders
TF Special Staff (i.e. ETAC, EN Co XO)
Attached platoon leaders, squad or team leaders (i.e. GSR team,
Avenger / Stinger section)
Sample Rehearsal Schedule
TOPIC BRIEFER
ORIENTATION S3
ENEMY SITUATION S2
ISR OPERATIONS S2/S3
MAIN EFFORT CO TM CO COMMANDER
SUPPORTING EFFORT CO TM CO COMMANDER (S)
FIRE SUPPORT FSO
MOBILITY/COUNTERMOBILIT EN CO COMMANDER
Y/SURVIVABILITY
AIR DEFENSE ADA PLT OR SECTION LEADER
MI GSR OR HUMINT TEAM LEADER
NBC CHEMO
COMMAND AND CONTROL S6
Backbriefs
Backbriefs, previously mentioned as one of the five types of rehearsals, is a

valuable tool for the commander to ensure operational clarity.
Sample Backbrief Format
Final backbriefs are conducted after the BN OPORD but before the CO
OPORDs. Each CO Commander backbriefs the BN Commander using a
blow-up sketch (butcher block size) and desk-side binder.
Time allotted is 20 minutes for each CO Commander. Location: BN TOC.

Sample Backbrief Agenda
Specified Tasks (desk-side binder)

Implied Tasks (desk-side binder)
Essential Tasks (desk-side binder)
Mission (desk-side or blow-up)
Intent (desk-side or blow-up)
Concept of the Operation (blow-up)
Concept of Fires (blow-up)
Concept of Air Defense (blow-up)
Concept of Engineer Support (blow-up)
Concept of Support (blow-up)
CASEVAC Concept (blow-up)
Battle Command Concept (blow-up)
Issues (OPORD Time / Place)

The Military Decision Making Process (MDMP)
The MDMP is a planning tool that establishes techniques for analyzing a

mission, developing, analyzing, and comparing courses of action against
criteria of success and each other, selecting the optimum course of action,
and producing a plan or order. Commanders with an assigned staff use it to
organize their planning activities, share a common understanding of the
mission and commander’s intent, and develop effective plans and orders.
The MDMP helps organize the thought process of commanders and staffs,
and helps them apply thoroughness, clarity, sound judgment, logic, and
professional knowledge to reach decisions.
Military Decision Making Process Diagram
The Military Decision Making Process

(MDMP)
INPUTS OUTPUTS
• Mission received • CDR’s initial guidance
from higher HQ or Receipt of Mission • WARNO 1
deduced by the CDR • Initial ISR Plan
/ staff • Initial CCIR
• Initial IPB products
• Higher HQ order / plan • Restated Mission
/ IPB • CDR’s intent
• Staff estimates facts &
Mission
Mission Analysis
Analysis • CDR’s guidance
assumptions • WARNO 2
• Staff products
• Restated mission • Battlefield framework
• CDR’s guidance • Preliminary movement
• CDR’s intent
• Staff estimates &
products COA Development • COA statements & sketches
Estimates
Estimate
• Threat COAs
CDR’s
Staff
• Wargame results
• Threat COAs COA
COA Analysis
Analysis • Task organizations
• COA statements & (War
Sketches (War Game)
Game) • Mission to subordinates units
• Refine CCIR
• Wargame results
COA • Decision matrix
• Establish criteria COAComparison
Comparison
• Approved COA
• Refined CDR’s intent
COA
COA Approval
Approval • Specified type of order
• Decision matrix Approve COA • Specified type of rehearsal
• HPT list
• WARNO 3
• Approved COA OrdersProduction

Orders Production • OPLAN / OPORD
Approve order
Troop Leading Procedures
Preparation
Rehearsals
Execution

MDMP Staff Integration
Staff integration requires that staff officers plan beyond themselves, know
what to look for to execute their tasks, know where to get it, and know to
start early. The applicability of a particular BOS for a given mission may
take the forefront over another, just as the battalion staff personnel
supporting that BOS at that time may have more critical task responsibilities
than other staff members.
Regardless, the primary BOS staff members supporting a mission are

supported by the integrated task assistance from the rest of the staff. The
following diagram reinforces the magnitude of MDMP planning and the
criticality of staff integration.

Ste p 1 . R e c e iv e th e M is s io n
•Gain & maintain situational understanding
S te p 7 . P ro d u c e O p e ra tio n s O rd e r (O P O R D ) •Receive HHQ order or initiate M DM P at CDR’s urging (S3)
•Refine (staff) & approve (CDR) selected COA, if required •Determine COP elements to be displayed (CDR)
•Coordinate & integrate accident risk controls into OPORD text & •Update & maintain COP
graphics •Issue W ARNO to staff to initiate planning (S3 SEC)
•Ensure staff estimates or OPORD annexes reflect CDR’s decisions (XO) •Coordinate staff actions
•Develop operations annexes & body of the OPORD •Direct, supervise, & coordinate staff planning (XO)
•Integrate staff input & annexes to finalize OPORD (S3 SEC lead) •Gather necessary tools
•Review, modify, & approve OPORD (CDR) •Determine time required to position critical elements
•Reproduce, distribute, & brief OPORD, as required (S3 SEC) •Determine time available
•Conduct confirmation briefing(s) with subordinates units 7 1 •Determine if time permits complete M DM P (CDR)
•Support subordinate unit staffs with planning & coordination •M aintain planning time line (XO)
•Direct, supervise, & coordinate staff planning (XO) •Conduct quick assessments (commander & staff):
CDR
•Begin prep for operations & conduct rehearsals (sub-units) current IPB & intelligence gaps
available staff estimates (draft or revise, if required)
S1 XO S3
staff’s experience, cohesiveness, & level of stress or sleep
S te p 6 . A p p ro v e C O A S1 Sec S3 Air ambient light requirements for planning, rehearsals, & movement
•Select & refine COA (CDR) •Determine requirements for staff collaboration
•M odify & approve CCIR (CDR) S3 Sec •Issue initial planning guidance (CDR)
S2
•Provide additional COA development guidance (CDR) •Determine initial R& S requirements & deploy R& S assets
•Review & refine intent statement (CDR) S2 Sec Plan Operations
6 FSO •Issue W ARNO 1 to subordinate & supporting units (S3 SEC)
•Analyze & coordinate acceptable risk with adjacent & … Using the M DM P
•Coordinate dispatch & receipt of LNOs (XO)
higher commanders (CDR) RECON ARTEP 71-2-M TP FSE •Advise & inform CDR of critical information (XO)
•Issue W ARNO 3 to subordinate & supporting units (S3 SEC) … Task # 07-1-5189
M ORTAR CHEM O 2 Ste p 2 . C o n d u c t M iss io n A n a ly s is
Fort Leavenworth, KS 66027-2346 S te p 5 . C o m p a re C O A s S4
ENG •Analyze HHQ order to:
determine assets available
•Evaluate & score each COA ALO
S4 Sec determine constraints that restrict freedom of action
•Conduct internal war game brief (optional) (S3) determine specified, implied, and essential tasks
Battalion Staff Integration and the MDMP
•Participate in the internal war game brief (optional) S6 ADO

5 S5 identify critical facts and assumptions
•Conduct COA decision brief (S3) •Approve essential tasks (CDR)
Commo
•Determine weight of each criterion •Conduct initial IPB (staff w/ S2 lead)
•Receive decision briefing & analyze COAs (CDR) •Develop operational environment & effects
•Direct, supervise, and coordinate staff planning (XO) •Develop SITTEM P (staff w/ S2 SEC lead)
•Determine possible threat COAs (S2 SEC)
© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC)
3
•Develop threat event templates (S2 SEC)
Ste p 4 . A n a ly z e C O A s
4 •Develop modified combined obstacle overlay (M COO) (S2 SEC)
•Conduct initial risk assessment
•Coordinate COA analysis (XO)
Note: This graphic is intended •Nominate information requirements (IR) to become CCIR
•Gather the tools
to help BN battle staffs w ith the •Recommend PIR (S2) & approve PIR (CDR)
•List all friendly forces
•M onitor, assess, and manage CCIR (XO)
integration effort required of •List critical assumptions
•Review and approve initial CCIR (CDR)
selected critical tasks. The •List known critical events & decision points
•Revise estimates
actions, duties, and •Determine evaluation criteria
Ste p 3 . D e v e lo p C o u rs e s o f •Revise initial Commander’s intent (CDR)
responsibilities listed, while in •Select war game method & recording method (S3)
A c tio n (C O A ) •Identify intelligence gaps (XO & S2 SEC)
•Record results of war gaming (S3 / OPS NCO)
consonance with the ARTEP 71- •Review & modify CCIR (CDR) •Develop initial R&S plan (S2, S3, & staff)
•Role-play friendly commander (S3 or CDR)
2-M TP, are not intended to be all S te p 4 . A n a ly z e C O A s •Continue risk management (XO & staff) •Turn R& S plan into initial reconnaissance annex (S3 & S3 SEC)
•Role-play enemy commander (S2)
inclusive, but sufficient for BN (c o n tin u e d ) •Analyze relative combat power •Publish R&S order (S3 SEC)
•Develop critical threat decision points (S2)
CDRs and battle staffs to gain a •Analyze COAs (sustainment feasibility, •Generate options •M anage, and enforce planning timeline
•Project & capture enemy actions & losses (S2)
perspective for the spectrum of shortfalls, & movement) (S4) •Array initial forces •Refine, manage, & enforce planning time line (XO)
•Identify IRs, refine event template, & matrix (S2)
integration. Those tasks specific •Analyze COAs (communications support) (S6) •Develop scheme of maneuver •W rite the restated mission (XO or S3)
•Analyze COAs (battle losses & personnel support) (S1)
•Analyze COAs for BOS supportability •Assign headquarters •Conduct mission analysis briefing (S3)
to a member of the BN are •Assess IR to finalize CCIR
•Supervise targeting session (XO) •Prepare COA statements & sketches •Approve restated mission (CDR)
noted. If not noted otherw ise, •Refine the ISR plan based on CCIR
•Participate in targeting session (Targeting Team) •Screen COAs against criteria •Issue CDR’s guidance and intent (CDR)
all other tasks are comm on to •Issue W ARNO 2 to subordinate & supporting units (S3 SEC)
•M odify & approve CCIR (CDR) •Conduct COA development briefing (XO or S3)
the entire BN battle staff. •Receive COA briefing (CDR) •Perform recurring functions
•Revise & update CDR & staff estimates
•Direct, supervise, & coordinate staff planning (XO) •Participate in the COA briefing (staff) •Supervise integration of risk management (XO)
REF: FM 6-0, FM 5-0
•Identify / develop risk reduction measures •Direct, supervise, & coordinate staff planning (XO) •Direct, supervise, and coordinate staff planning (XO)
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Gathering MDMP Tools
The following reference sheet should be used as a guide to ensure an

efficient MDMP start-up.
Gathering Tools Reference Sheet
For What Timeline

Tool Who Gathers
MDMP Activity (Gather when)
Large scale map of the area of operations, 1:25,000 or larger S3 OPS NCO Mission Analysis Mission Receipt
Higher echelon orders, INTSUMs, INTREPs, and graphics of the AO Staff NCOs Mission Analysis Mission Receipt
Cartoon sketch or representation of the AO depicting prominent Mission Analysis Mission Receipt
terrain features, both topographic and man-made S3 OPS NCO
Formatted mission analysis worksheets S3 OPS NCO Mission Analysis Mission Receipt
Blown-up, laminated mission analysis briefing boards S3 OPS NCO Mission Analysis Mission Receipt
Enlarged, blank timeline with space for light data, enemy & friendly
S3 OPS NCO Mission Analysis Mission Receipt
actions
Examples of previous products used & approved by the CDR Staff NCOs Mission Analysis Mission Receipt
CDR’s guidance checklist S3 OPS NCO Mission Analysis Mission Receipt
Wargaming staff input checklist S3 OPS NCO Wargaming COA Development
Mission Analysis nesting diagram S3 OPS NCO Wargaming COA Development
Synchronization matrix S3 OPS NCO Wargaming COA Development
COA statements and sketch boards with decision graphics Staff NCOs Wargaming COA Development
CDR’s guidance S3 Wargaming COA Development
Battle staff estimates Staff Wargaming COA Development
Operational graphic overlays S3 OPS NCO Wargaming COA Development
List of friendly forces available S3 OPS NCO Wargaming COA Development
Enemy SITEMPs and EVENTEMPs S2 NCO Wargaming COA Development
List of possible enemy reinforcements S2 NCO Wargaming COA Development
List of known higher / friendly & enemy critical events S2, S3 Wargaming COA Development
List of known higher / friendly & enemy decision points S3 & S2 NCOs Wargaming COA Development
Friendly and enemy ICONs S3 & S2 NCOs Wargaming COA Development
Supplies (paper, markers, acetate, etc.) S3 OPS NCO Wargaming COA Development
Imagery (if available or applicable), TERRABASE II products S3 & S2 NCOs Wargaming COA Development
Task organization chart S3 OPS NCO Wargaming COA Development
Reference library (CD or paper) Staff NCOs Throughout MDMP Mission Receipt

MDMP Step 1 – Mission Receipt
The MDMP begins with receiving or anticipating a new mission. This can
come from an order issued by higher headquarters or be derived from an
ongoing operation. When a new mission is identified, commanders and
staffs perform the process actions and produce the outputs shown in the
following graphic. Note the process actions in the diagram.
Input-Process-Output Diagram (Mission Receipt)
Mission from higher HQ or Receipt Initial operational timeline

deduced by CDR & staff Inputs Of CDR’s initial guidance Outputs
Higher HQ plan, OPORD, or Initial WARNO
Mission
WARNOs
Process
Includes…
Ops section alerts staff Includes…
Initial timeline
Ops section
Unit alerts staffwho participates
SOP identifies
Alert the staff Initial timeline
Abbreviate the MDMP?
Unit SOP identifies who participates Gather tools Abbreviate the MDMP?
Required coordination
Update estimates Required coordination
Initial surveillance & reconnaissance
Initial surveillance
Authorized movement & reconnaissance
Conduct initial Authorized
Higher HQ order or plan and ops graphics Additionalmovement
staff tasks
Higher assessment
Maps HQ order
of the AO or plan and ops graphics Additional staff planning
Collaborative tasks
Maps
Ownofand
thehigher
AO HQ SOPs Collaborative planning
Own and higher
Appropriate FMsHQ SOPs
Appropriate FMs
Current staff estimates
Current Time from mission receipt to msn execution
Others staff estimates
as required by the mission Tim e from
Time mission
needed by HQreceipt
& subto units
msn execution
to plan & prepare As a minimum…
Others as required by the mission Tim e needed AsType
a minimum…
Current IPBbyproducts
HQ & sub units to plan & prepare
available Type
of operation
of operation
Curre
Staffntestimates
IPB products available
current, need updating General location of operation
Staff estimates General location of operation
Time requiredcurrent, needcritical
to position updating
elements for Ops Initial Ops
Initial Ops
timeline
Begun immediately Tim
Staeffrequired to position
experience, criticalrest,
cohesiveness, elements
stressfor Ops Recon andtimeline
surveillance begin
Begun immediately Staff experience, cohesiveness, rest, stress Recon and
Movements surveillance
to initiate begin
Continuous throughout operations process Movements to initiate
Continuous throughout
How updates operations
affect COA process
development Collaborative planning sessions
How updates affect COA development Collaborative planning sessions
Commander’s Initial Guidance
One of the most important outputs of the “Receipt of Mission” process is the
commander’s initial guidance. The commander should focus the staff by
visualizing where he thinks the decisive terrain is and what will be the
decisive operation. He may also discuss shaping operations, but it is not
critical at this point. The commander’s initial guidance should address the
following:
Friendly / Enemy COAs to consider
CCIR
Identification of decisive terrain and decisive operation
ISR guidance
Reconnaissance guidance
Deception guidance (if any)
Fire support guidance and EFSTs
Mobility and counter-mobility / survivability guidance
Air Defense guidance
NBC protective posture
risk
Combat support and service support priorities

Friendly COAs to consider

IO considerations
Time plan
Type of order to prepare
Type of rehearsal to conduct
Sample Commander’s Guidance Checklist
COMMANDER’S GUIDANCE WORKSHEET

OPORD NO. UNIT HQ DTG CDR’S SIGNATURE
CDR’S Intent:
Key Tasks:
End State:
Guidance:
Decisive Points:
Battlefield visualization – Phasing / timing of operations using battlefield framework and

considerations for priorities and desired effects. Highlight those that are appropriate:
INTEL:
ISR M/CM/S CA
Intelligence ADA PSYOP
Maneuver CSS PAO
Aviation C2 JMC
FS MP Deception
INFO OPS: Risk assessment / mitigation

For military leaders
For civilian leaders CCIR
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO)
Other COAs to consider
CSM Focus
FORCE PROTECTION:
Fratricide prevention Time plan
Weapons control status / THREATCON
Force protection level Type order
NBC posture
Safety Type rehearsal

Sample Actions After Receipt of Mission
ACTION WHO
Alert staff of pending planning requirement. S3
Gather tools for mission analysis. STAFF
Provide staff copies of higher headquarters’ base S3
operations order and appropriate annex(es).
Brief commander and staff on mission, instructions, and S3 / XO
developments.
Conduct commander and staff initial assessment. CDR
STAFF
Determine IPB requirements. S2
Determine initial allocation of available time. S3
Refine initial reconnaissance requirements. S2/S3
Complete Reconnaissance and Surveillance Order and S2/S3
Intelligence Summary.
Develop initial planning and operational timelines. S3
Conduct Mission Analysis briefing to the commander. STAFF
Prepare and issue Warning Order #2 per planning S3
timeline with Reconnaissance and Surveillance order and
Intelligence Summary.
Receive and log subordinate and supporting units’ S3
acknowledgment of Warning Order #2.
Receive commander’s initial guidance consisting of… STAFF
♦ Initial time allocation.
♦ LNOs to dispatch.
♦ Authorized movement.
♦ Any additional tasks.

• M ission analysis briefing
AOs for surveillance & reconnaissance
• Initial IPB AOs for surveillance & reconnaissance
Mission statement
• Higher HQ plan or order • Enemy SITEM Ps Mission statement
Perform Provisions for com, log, and fire support
• Higher HQ IPB • M COO Provisions for com, log, and fire support
Inputs Mission Outputs Task organization
• Updated staff estimates • HVTs Task organization
Analysis Recon objective
• Initial CDR’s guidance • Restated mission Recon objective
CCIR, PIR, and IR
• Initial CDR’s intent CCIR, PIR, and IR
LD / LC time
• CDR’s planning guidance LD / LC time
Initial NAIs
CDR’s Intent • W arning order Initial NAIs
CDR’s Intent Routes to AO, passage of lines instructions
Mission Routes to AO, passage of lines instructions
M ission FSC & airspace control measures
Available assets Process FSC & airspace control measures
Available assets Provisions for MEDEVAC
Area of operations Provisions for MEDEVAC
Area of operations
Concept of operations 1. Analyze the Higher HQ’s order 9. Determine the initial ISR plan
Concept of operations
Operational time line 2. Perform initial IPB 10. Update operational timelines
Operational time line Time needed to accomplish essential tasks
3. Determine specified, implied, 11. W rite the unit mission statement Time needed to accomplish essential tasks
Compare OP time line w/ enemy timeline
and essential tasks 12. Deliver the mission analysis briefing Compare OP time line w/ enemy timeline
Define the battlefield environment Determine windows of opportunity
Define the battlefield environment 4. Review available assets 13. Approve the unit mission statement Determine windows of opportunity
Describe the battlefield’s effects Briefings
Describe the battlefield’s effects 5. Determine constraints 14. Develop the initial CDR’s intent Briefings
Evaluate the threat Collaborative planning sessions
Evaluate the threat 6. Identify critical facts & assumptions 15. Issue CDR’s planning guidance Collaborative planning sessions
Determine threat COAs rehearsals
Determine threat COAs 7. Perform risk assessment 16. Issue a warning order rehearsals
MCOO
MCOO 8. Determine IR and initial PIR, FFIR, 17. Review facts and assumptions
Enemy SITEMPs
Enemy SITEMPs and CCIR
PIR W ho will execute the mission
Fort Leavenworth, KS 66027-2346 PIR
HVTs
HVTs
W ho will execute the mission
W hat are the essential tasks
W hat are the essential tasks
W hen w ill the operation begin
W hen will the operation begin
W here will the operation occur
MDMP Step 2 – Mission Analysis
W here will the operation occur

Specified in higher order W hy conduct the operation
Specified in higher order W hy conduct the operation
Implied are required but not in higher order Contains: Developed from CDR’s vision
Implied are required but not in higher order Contains: Developed from CDR’s vision
Essential are mission success dependent Approved mission statement Focuses on COA development, analysis,
Essential are mission success dependent Approved mission statement Focuses on COA development, analysis,
Task org changes and comparison Msn and intent of higher and next higher HQ
Task org changes and comparison Msn and intent of higher and next higher HQ
Attachments / detachments Focuses on essential tasks Msn, CDR’s intent, OP concept, deception plan
Additions & deletions to current task organization Attachments / detachments Focuses on essential tasks Msn, CDR’s intent, OP concept, deception plan
Additions & deletions to current task organization CDR’s intent Includes priorities for all BOSs & objectives
Support relationships CDR’s intent Includes priorities for all BOSs & objectives
Support relationships AO sketch, overlay Addresses: Review of CDR’s guidance
AO sketch, overlay Addresses: Review of CDR’s guidance
Status of units CCIR, PIR, FFIR The decisive operation Initial IPB products, M COO, SITEM PS
Status of units CCIR, PIR, FFIR The decisive operation Initial IPB products, M COO, SITEM PS
Input-Process-Output Diagram (Mission Analysis)
Risk guidance Specific COAs & priority Pertinent facts & assumptions
Risk guidance Specific COAs & priority Pertinent facts & assumptions
Surveillance & recon instructions Initial CCIR Specified, implied, essential tasks
Surveillance & recon instructions Initial CCIR Specified, implied, essential tasks
Restrictions pled on the command by higher Initial movement instructions Surveillance & reconnaissance Constraints
Restrictions pled on the command by higher Initial movement instructions Surveillance & reconnaissance Constraints
Restrictions to freedom of action Security measures Risk Forces available
Restrictions to freedom of action Security measures Risk Forces available
Deception guidance Military deception Initial risk assessment
Deception guidance Military deception Initial risk assessment
Mobility & countermobility Fires Recommended CCIR
Mobility & countermobility Fires Recommended CCIR
Known data concerning the situation guidance Mobility & countermobility Recommended time lines
Known data concerning the situation guidance Mobility & countermobility Recommended time lines
Supposition on the current situation Specific priorities Security measures Recommended restated mission
Supposition on the current situation Specific priorities Security measures Recommended restated mission
Expected conditions Updated time line Time plan Recommended collaborative planning sessions
Expected conditions Updated time line Time plan Recommended collaborative planning sessions
Collaborative events, rehearsal Type of order
Collaborative events, rehearsal Type of order
guidance Collaborative planning
guidance Collaborative planning
Movements to initiate Can be staff’s recommended msn statement
Identifying, assessing, and controlling risks Movements to initiate Can be staff’s recommended msn statement
Identifying, assessing, and controlling risks Type of rehearsal Can be modified version of staff recommendation
M aking decisions that balance risk costs with mission benefits Type of rehearsal Can be modified version of staff recommendation
M aking decisions that balance risk costs with mission benefits Additional priorities for CS& CSS Can be commander-developed
Additional priorities for CS& CSS Can be commander-developed
New facts may alter assumptions

Determine IR w ith stated priority in planning & decision making New facts may alter assumptions Must be understood by subordinates two echelons down
Determine IR with stated priority in planning & decision making M ay require re-analysis of the mission Must be understood by subordinates two echelons down
Determine friendly information needed by CDR & staff about forces available May require re-analysis of the mission Must be brief and clear
Determine friendly information needed by CDR & staff about forces available Assumptions may become facts Must be brief and clear
Determine information required by CDR that dictates successful msn execution Assumptions may become facts In narrative or bullet form
Determine information required by CDR that dictates successful msn execution Assumptions may have become invalid In narrative or bullet form
actions associated with the 17-process tasks of Mission Analysis.
Assumptions may have become invalid Not exceed five sentences

Not exceed five sentences
are not necessarily performed sequentially. Note in the graphic below, the
The process and products of mission analysis help commanders refine their
to better visualize the operation. Mission Analysis consists of 17-tasks that

situational understanding. Accurate situational understanding enables them
Page 37
www-bctc.army.mil
Preparation of a Mission Analysis
Mission Analysis requires the entire battle staff to integrate their efforts to
get ready for COA development. The TF XO will ensure total staff
involvement and provide direction from the commander as required. The
task force planning staff should automatically pursue the deliberate MDMP
model unless the commander directs otherwise.
During mission analysis what must be accomplished is see ourselves, see the
terrain, and see the enemy. This helps accomplish the purpose of mission
analysis – which is, to understand our tactical problem.
Every mission analysis is unique to mission circumstances, higher

headquarter’s guidance, and the TF commander’s intent, thus any common-
user example may be flawed in its representation of critical information
required for your mission. However, preparation of the mission analysis
follows a common design path. Following this design facilitates a
comprehensive TF mission analysis. The preparation guidance that follows
is provided as a quick reference guide. Note that the actions identified
provide key results, many of which must be briefed to the commander at the
conclusion of mission analysis. Mission analysis actions are not sequential.
Preparing a Mission Analysis
Preparing a Mission Analysis
Take These Steps… Achieve These Results…
Analyze the higher identification of the CDR’s intent

HQ order. identification of the Mission
identification of the available assets
identification of the area of operations
identification of the concept of operations
identification of the operation timelines
horizontal and vertical nesting of units
Record the above and use as a reference.
Begin your initial a description of the battlefield environment

Intelligence of the a description of the battlefield effects
Battlefield (IPB). an evaluation of the threat
a description of the enemy’s COAs
a developed MCOO based on what you know
developed enemy SITEMPs
a list of primary information requirements (PIR)
a list of high value targets (HVT).
Review the higher tasks specifically stated in the order (specified)

HQ order and tasks that must be accomplished but are not in the order (implied)
determine those tasks that must be accomplished if the mission is to be a success.
tasks that are
specifies, implied,
and essential.
Identify the assets identification of additions and/or deletions to the task organization
available to the TF identification of supporting assets (e.g., artillery)
to accomplish the the current status of all TF units (e.g., equipment, personnel, etc.).
assigned mission.

Identify any identification of higher HQs restrictions (e.g., boundaries, task

constraints or organization, supporting assets, type and size of reserve,
restrictions that will reconnaissance limitations, etc.).
affect the freedom of
action the TF has for
planning.
Determine from all known / established information such as situation data, enemy
the task information and friendly dispositions, troops available, etc. (facts)
available those
pieces of information assumed -to-be -true information that is judged valid and essential
that may be for planning such as weather, enemy threat capabilities, etc.
considered facts and (assumptions).
those that are best
categorized as
assumptions.
Identify any risks identification of any hazards that may be encountered as a resul t
that must be of enemy presence (tactical risk)
managed to
accomplish the identification of other operational risks not considered tactical
mission. (accidental risks)
determination of the impact of each hazard.
Determine what identification of all information requirements for the commander

information is and staff to execute operations (IRs)
required to identification of the IR that are most critical to planning and
successfully conduct decision making (PIR)
the the required identification of the IR that are necessary for the forces available
operation. to support the operation (FFIR)
identification of the IR the commander deems most important
(CCIR)
Determine what the In the ISR plan address the as a minimum:

Intelligence, AO assets will operate in
Surveillance, and the ISR tasks
reconnaissance plan task organization
should be based on reconnaissance objective
information gaps identified CCIR and IR
found from review of LD / LC
the initial IPB so ISR NAIs
assets can be tasked routes to the AO
to begin the passage of lines instructions if applicable
collection effort. fire support coordination measures
airspace control measures
medical evacuation provisions.

As more information Address as a minimum:

becomes available, comparison of time needed to accomplish essential tasks with the
update the planning time allocated by higher HQ
timeline. subject, time, and location of CDR-required briefings
times of collaborative planning sessions
times, locations, and types of rehearsals.
Prepare a new Address as a minimum;

(restated) mission who will execute the mission (Who)
statement for the the units essential task (What)
unit based on the when the operation will begin or duration (When)
mission analysis that where the operation will occur (Where)
has been conducted. why the operation will occur (Why).
Brief the (A sample briefing format is provided at the end of the mission
commander on the analysis section of this guide.)
mission analysis that
has been done.
CDR approves the final unit mission.

restated mission.
Obtain the The commander’s intent prepared in either narrative or bullet

commander’s intent form.
to focus planning.
Obtain the Written or oralCDR’s guidance that addresses:

commander’s the decisive operation
planning guidance. decisive point or points
potential key decisions
specific COAs (enemy & friendly) to consider and their priority
initial CCIR
surveillance and reconnaissance guidance
risk
military deception
fires
mobility and countermobility
security measures
BOS priorities
operational time-line
type of order to issue
collaborative planning sessions to be conducted
movements to initiate (including C2 nodes)
type of rehearsal to conduct
other information as deemed appropriate.

As soon as the WARNO that contains as a minimum:

commander provides approved unit mission statement
his planning commander’s intent
guidance, issue a task organization changes
WARNO to attachments / detachments
subordinate and sketch or overlay of AO
supporting units. CCIR and EEFI
risk guidance
surveillance and reconnaissance instructions
initial movement instructions
security measures
military deception guidance
mobility and countermobility guidance
specific priorities
updated operational timeline
guidance on collaborative events and rehearsals.
Periodically review identification of any new facts that may alter unit requirements
the facts and identification of any assumptions that may have become facts
assumptions that assessment of any change.
have been
established.
Staff Officer Considerations
A thorough mission analysis is crucial to planning. By having a thorough

understanding of their unit (see yourself), the enemy (see the enemy), and
the terrain (see the terrain), the Commander and staff can develop effective
estimates and courses of action to accomplish the mission.
Minimum staff officer considerations:

Mission and intent of higher headquarters one and two levels up
Specified, implied, and essential tasks
Area of operations
Area of interest (AO)
Enemy situation and capabilities
Critical facts and assumptions
Status of subordinate units
Weapon systems capabilities and limitations
Status of available assets within their functional area or battlefield
operating system (BOS)
Constraints
Risk considerations
Time considerations

Recommended commander’s critical information requirements (CCIR)

and information requirements (IR).
Recommended intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR)
tasks.
Knowing the steps that must be taken to accomplish a thorough mission

analysis and the results and products of each of those steps is an important
on-hand reference for the unit staff and commander. Examples of many of
these products and step requirements are also valuable references. Following
are examples organized in the context of “Seeing ourselves”, “Seeing the
terrain”, and “Seeing the enemy.”
Seeing Ourselves
One of the most important tasks associated with analyzing the higher HQ
order is identification of specified, implied, and essential tasks. Following
are OPORD examples reflecting the location of these tasks.
Finding Tasks in the OPORD
3. Execution.
Commander’s Intent Mission
a. Concept of the Operation (See Annex C – Ops
Overlay)
Essential
(1) Scheme of Maneuver. BN defends to block Task
Implied enemy threat to prevent envelopment of the BDE main
effort.
Tasks (2)
b. Tasks to maneuver units.
(1) Security zone (1) BN
in place NLT H-24 (2) BN
(a) Be prepared to counterattack NET H+26 to Specified
(2) Complete refueling protect flank of BDE. Tasks
NLT H+26 (b)
(3) Establish liaison c. Tasks to Combat Support Units.
d. Coordinating Instruction.
(1) H-Hr is defined as enemy 1st echelon crossing PL
GIANTS
(2) BN defenses must be complete NLT 080800 ____.
(3) MOPP 2 in effect on 080400 _____.
(4)

An important requirement when analyzing the higher HQ order is to

establish horizontal and vertical nesting, not just for maneuver, but also for
all combat and combat service support. Nesting, or the nested concept,
means to achieve a unity of purpose whereby each succeeding echelon’s
concept is nested in the other.
Nesting Graphic
P: Prevent enemy penetration

beyond PL Red
T: O/O Block AA # 2a
The battalion’s task and purpose

is nested with the brigade’s task
and purpose (it is the same)
II
1 ME
P: Prevent enemy penetration
beyond PL Red
T: O/O Block AA # 2a
Assets available include not only organic assets but also supporting units,
such as artillery, aviation, engineers and intelligence. Additionally, it is
important to understand the command and support relationships that are
specified in the Task Organization paragraph or annex to the OPORD.
Sample Decision Graphic of Assets Available
The Battalion’s major combat and combat support assets:

2 x tank companies; 1 x mech company
1 x arty battery
1 x engineer company

Available Assets Worksheet
A/S3 AVN FSO ENG ADA S1 S2 S4 MP CM SIG PSY CA ALO
Availability Capabilities /
Unit Type / Equipment (O/H – FMC) Limitations
MANEUVER (Armor / Infantry)
SUPPORTING AVIATION (Attack / Lift / Recon / EW / MEDEVAC)
FIRE SUPPORT(Arty tubes / NGF / CAS / COLTs / Q36)
COMBAT SUPPORT (EN / ADA / MI / MP / CM / others if key)
COMBAT SERVICE SUPPORT (MED SPT / SVC SPT / SUPPLIES)
Seeing the Terrain
Seeing the terrain and enemy is accomplished through Intelligence

Preparation of the Battlefield (IPB). Some of the IPB is done as soon as the
staff receives the first warning order. IPB is a systematic, continuous
process of analyzing threat and environment in a geographic area. It helps us
see the terrain and the enemy. The S2 has staff supervision over IPB but all
staff members have a part.
In trying to see the terrain, build a Modified Combined Obstacle Overlay

(MCOO) to put on the map of the AO. This overlay is constructed during
step 2 of the IPB process--describe the battlefield effects. Following are
graphic examples of the building (layering) process.

Building a MCOO
VEGETATION
SURFACE DRAINAGE
OTHER OBSTACLES
COMBINED OBSTACLE
OVERLAY
Severely Restricted
II
PL

x
Restricted
II Unrestricted
II
mobility
corridors
II
I
Severely Restricted
X
I
II
II
PL
x
Restricted AA
1B
II Unrestricted
AA AA1
II 1A
AA1 K
EA 2
K
II
+781 I
Severely Restricted
EA 1
X
AA2 I AA2
I
AA
2A
K
II
II
AA
PL
2B
Seeing the Enemy
Seeing the enemy is evaluating the threat. This is accomplished by

analyzing current intelligence to determine how the threat normally
organizes for combat and conducts operations under similar circumstances.
This results in a doctrinal template that depicts how the threat may operate
when unconstrained by the effects of the environment.

Sample Enemy Template
I I
I
ENEMY
Fire Sack TEMPLATE
MCOO
=
I I
I
SITEMP
Fire Sack
Sample Situation Template
FIXING
FORCE AA1
EXPLOITATION
K FORCE
K
+781
ASSAULT
AA2 FORCE
II
PL

Sample Event Template
x
ATTACK TIMELINE ENTERING AO
H-24
DTG
RECON
H-12
BTG
RECON
H-15
FPs
H-Hour
ASLT &
FIXING FORCE
H+1 to H+3
BTG
EXPL FORCE
H+2 to H+6
DTG
EXPL FORCE
NAI 2 NAI 1
FIXING
FORCE AA1
EXPLOITATION
K FORCE
K
NAI 4
+781
ASSAULT
AA2 FORCE
NAI 3
H + 1130
H + 12
H + 1140
K
II
PL PL
Commander’s Critical Information Requirements (CCIR)
The BN Commander stipulates those information requirements that he

deems critical in both training and in combat. Information concerning these
requirements must be reported immediately to the BN Commander so they
may be used to make critical decisions. These items help to focus the efforts
of the staff and subordinate units, assist in the allocation of resources, and
assist in the making of timely staff recommendations. These CCIR should
be limited to ten-or-less items to enhance comprehension.
The CCIR will be expressed in three categories:

Priority Intelligence Requirements (PIR) – information about the enemy.
(How I See the enemy)
Essential Elements of Friendly Information (EEFI) – information needed
to protect friendly forces from the enemy’s information-gathering
systems. (How I prevent the enemy from seeing me)
Friendly Forces Information Requirements (FFIR) – information about
the capabilities of friendly units. (How I see myself)

Commander’s Interest Items (standing information requirements for the BN

Commander)
Loss of sensitive item
Serious injury / illness of soldier (training)
Red Cross Message (training)
Severe weather forecast; significant weather change that affects
operations
Change in color of combat power of any platoon-sized force in the BN
TF
Loss of communications with BDE or subordinate companies for more
than one hour
WIA / KIA / MIA of company commander
Change to time of critical event in BDE/BN operation
Visit by member of Division or BDE command group
Logistic / personnel problem that significantly affects operations
ISR Planning Considerations and Building a Collection Plan
Intelligence, Reconnaissance, and Surveillance (ISR) planning is arguably

one of the most difficult tasks that the staff has to accomplish.
Developing a battalion collection plan is a sequential process as shown in the

following diagram.
Developing a Battalion Collection Plan
Battalion Collection Plan
Final Plan Ingredients

6
5 Consider Assets Develop a Collection Strategy 4
2 Prioritize IR into CCIR, RFIs, Intel Reqs Select CCIR, RFIs, Intel Reqs 3
1
Determine Information Requirements
Developing the ISR collection plan requires the input of the entire staff.
While there are numerous battalion tasks where staffs may have a choice as
to when they are initiated and not worry about the sequence in which they
are accomplished, developing a collection plan is not one of them.
Development is “first things first,” and each development piece builds on
the next. The following checklist is intended to assist staffs with the
building sequence for a battalion collection plan. While the worksheet
checklist is comprehensive and in consonance with doctrine, it is not all-

inclusive. Battalion staffs should consider the checklist as a starting point

for the level of detail the commander may require.

Developing
Developing Information
Information Requirements
Requirements (Building
(Building Block Checklist)
Block Checklist)
6
___ Final Plan Ingredients:
___ ISR Assets:
___ Scout PLT?
___ MI assets?
___ GSR?
___ Maneuver companies?
___ FISTs?
___ Colts?
___ Radars?
___ Other?
___ CDR’s ISR Guidance:
___ Priority? 4
___ Focus? ___ Develop a Collection
5
___ Tempo? Strategy:
___ Consider Assets:
___ Engagement criteria? ___ Considerations:
___ Availability?
___ Event or Timeframe to Answer IR? ___ Cueing
___ Capability?
Fort Leavenworth, KS 66027-2346
Collection Plan Development Checklist
___ Redundancy
___ Vulnerability?
___ Mix
___ Performance history?
___ Integration
1
___ Determine Requirements: 3
2 ___ IRs: ___ Select PIRs:
___ Determine IRs: ___ Done during MA ___ From original list of IRs?
___ How important? ___ Answers questions about ___ Supports single tactical decision (fires or maneuver)?
___ Where are we in the battle? terrain & enemy ___ Ask only one question.
___ How much collection time do we have? ___ Lists information needed ___ Focused on a specific fact, event, or activity?
___ Type collectors available? to complete the plan ___ Linked to NAI and LTIOV?
___ Lists information needed ___ Addresses post-mission analysis CDR’s guidance?
to execute the fight smoothly ___ List in descending order.
___ Specified tasks ___ Focused, specific?
___ From higher HQ ___ Directly related to friendly decision.
___ Listed during MA to be executed during COA?
___ Specific request for
intelligence / information
___ Received from subordinate
or higher units
___ Specified information
___ Based on MA
___ Confirms / denies SITEMP
Page 51
www-bctc.army.mil
Appendix 4 (ISR Sketch) to A nnex L (ISR) to 2/52 ID (M ) OPORD02-2
04
MISSION: Upon arrival in A A Dog 2nd R ECON OBJEC TIVES: TASK OR G:

BCT elem ents conduct local security 1. Disposition of D Z Force
patrols to locate and destroy SPF team s 2. Com bined Arm s Reserve (C AR ) LZ YELLOW Pull together a battalion
and provide force protection. NET 3. Disposition of enem y platoons in TASK & PURPOSE:
(-)
292130 FEB 03, 2nd BCT conducts OBJ HORN , TRUM PET, BA NJO, TF BR ONZE:
reconnaissance and security operations and FLUTE LZ GR EEN T1: A rea Recon
Upon receipt of the brigade
in sector to PL OAK to identify and 4. Supporting Artillery P1: ID/TGT DZ Force
ISR Planning team:
locate enem y positions and obstacles 5. CA R C ATK T2: Observe NAI B3
in/on OBJ JAZZ/ P1: ID/TGT PLTs OBJ HOR N
OPORD, Annex L (Intelligence,
BLAZERS/K INGS/SONICS. P2: ID/TGT CAR
PL BIRCH Surveillance, and Reconnais-
-
1-19CAV TF IR ON:
(LD) ___ S3
X T1: Observe NA I B2
2 P1: ID POP OBJ BLA ZERS sance), the higher HQ ISR con-
OBJ HORN P2: ID PLTs OBJ TR UMPET ___ S2
ASLT PSN
P3: Refine prep & breachtgts
CAT TF BRO NZE B3 cept sketch may look like this.
II OBJ
TF IRON HARP TF STEEL: ___ FSO
O BJ TRUMPET T1: Observe NAI B1
O BJ B17 P1: ID PLTs OBJ BA NJO ___ S1 or S4
AA DOG B2 KNOCKOUT P2: ID POP OBJ BA NJO
TF IRO N OBJ
P3: Refine prep & breachtgts
II FLUT E
ASLT PSN T2: Observe NAI B5 ___ S6
TF STEEL
M OUSE B5 O BJ P1: ID PLTs OBJ FLUTE
2 OBJ BA NJO STRING T3: Observe NAI B4
X B1 P1: ID C AR ___ Scout PLT Ldr
B4
1
PL O RANGE E/19 CAV After reviewing the brigade
PL OAK PL M OP ___ Engineer
PL BRO OM PL SWEEP PL TREE T1: A rea Recon
PL BUSH
P1: ID/TGT DZ Force
P2: ID/TGT PLTs OBJ HOR N order, considering ISR assets ___ ADA
C2: Fire Support: CSS: P3: ID/TGT CAR
Prim ary: SC/TACSA T to SABER 6 POF: COLTs; TF 1-122 Scts; 2 D OS CLI, 5qts water each,
Alt: FM (FH/C T) H 509. SC C UE net E/23 CAV ; TF 3-122 Scts w/COLTs; CA SEVA C to LZ for O/O extraction available, and receiving the CDR’s ___ Other?
is IAW SOI. TF 2-122 Scts (w/COLTs) Or link-up with parent TF
ISR Plan Development Diagram
C2 Node: TEAM REC ON

guidance, the battalion’s ISR
The battalion’s ISR concept is to conduct reconnaissance and surveillance operations in sector to PL concept or COA may look like
BLACK IOT locate enemy positions and obstacles in VIC / on OBJs BOY / HIT / W ALK.
Reconnaissance objectives are to determine disposition of enemy forces VIC designated objectives and
this.
Fort Leavenworth, KS 66027-2346 support targeting for artillery. The battalion’s ISR focus is (in order): 1) TM A (NAIs G1 , G4, G6,
forces VIC PL ROYCE, TGT OBJ HIT ), 2) TM B (NAIs G2 , G6, forces VIC PL ROYCE, TGT OBJ
ISR COA Checklist:
W alk ), 3) Scouts (NAIs G3 , G4, zone recon, TGT OBJ BOY). TASK & PURPOSE:
Scouts: ___ Allocate assets from

TF IRON T1: Zone recon
II P1: ID/ TGT forces most to least
T2: Observe NAI G3
TF STEEL
G3 P1: ID TGT OBJ BOY important IRs.
T3: Observe NAI G4
OBJ P1: ID / TGT forces ___ Determine sequence

SCOUTS
BOY
I
TM A
TM A: in which IRs should
T1: Observe NAI G1
OBJ P1: ID/ TGT forces VIV PL ROYCE be answered.
A
-1 HIT T2: Observe NAI G4
TM A G4 OBJ P1: ID TGT OBJ HIT ___ Determine IRs that
G1 BAT T3: Observe NAI G6
I P1: ID / TGT forces are secondary
TM B
G6 TM B: and will not be answered.
T1: TGT forces in zone
OBJ P1: ID/ TGT forces VIV PL ROYCE
___ If possible, determine
statement, planning team composition, and COA checklist.
= TM W ALK T2: Observe NAI G2

B OBJ P1: ID TGT OBJ W alk
necessary routes ISR
G2 BALL T3: Observe NAI G6
= COLT 2 -2 assets will take.
P1: ID / TGT forces
X
= SCOUTS COLT 1:
___ Integrate BOS slices.
1
LD T1: Observe NAI G1
PL ROLLS PL ROYCE PL BLACK P1: ID / TGT forces
___ Determine C2.
The following diagram provides a sample ISR concept sketch, COA
COLT 2:
___ Determine CSS.
T1: Observe NAI G2
P1: ID / TGT forces
___ Determine fire support.
Page 52
www-bctc.army.mil
Sample ISR Cycle
ISR Actions Prior Recon Pull Recon Push Update ISR

Operations to Movement (Develop (Confirm/Deny Taskings
of ISR Assets Information/Answer COA) (FRAGO)
Assumptions)
Commander Initial guidance Additional Approve CCIR Refine

for ISR guidance for ISR updates guidance
operations operations Refine guidance for FRAGO
PIR approval Refine guidance
S2 Section General enemy Refine enemy Confirm/Deny Refine
situation situation ECOAs enemy
Initial collection Complete enemy Refine collection situation
plan with ISR SITEMPs plan Update P IR
overlay Request Update PIR Update
Initial PIR updated Black, Update ECOA collection
Designate Grey, White list for wargaming plan
recon Refine Queue assets as Assign new
objectives Association needed or NAIs and
Plan for mixing Matrix directed by Cdr recon
and Refine Event Post updates to objectives
redundancy of Matrix TOCLAN
ISR assets Nominate Publish INTSUM
Post products targets with FSO Nominate/update
on TOCLAN Queue assets as targets based on
Identify initial needed or updated ECOA
targets for directed by Cdr
SEAD Pos t updates to
TOCLAN
S3 Section Higher Commander’s Determine any Update
headquarters intent for ISR re-tasking to and/or
mission, intent, operations subordinate units change ISR
concept Initial CCIR Refine CSS Mission
Adjacent unit Update timeline operations Update
mission Refine/execute supporting ISR friendly
Define AO extraction plan Update CCIR COA - base
ISR mission Refine/execute Update timeline on adjusted
statement re-constitution Refine/execute ECOA
Confirm recon plan re-constitution Issue
objectives with Post updates to plan FRAGO
S2 TOCLAN
LD/LC time
Submit ISR plan

Sample ISR Cycle (continued)
ISR Recon Pull Recon Push Update ISR

Actions Prior
Operations (Develop (Confirm/Deny Taskings
To Movement
Information/Answer COA) (FRAGO)
of ISR Assets
Assumptions)
Task Post updates
organization to TOCLAN
Routes to AO
FPOL Initial
CCIR
Post products to
TOCLAN
FSO Identify fire Nominate Refine targets Update
support Targets with S2 based on targets
coordination Assign NFAs updated ECOA Assign new
measures NFAs
Identify initial
targets (SEAD
for air
insertions)
CHEMO Identify NBC Refine N BC
recon assets reconnaissance
available plan
Assist S2 in
identifying NBC
threat (include
industrial
chemicals if in
urban
environment)
S5 Determine civil Update S2 and
considerations S3 on Civil -
for ISR (i.e. If Military
ISR asset considerations
encounters for ISR
civilians)
Medical PL Identify Refine
CASEVAC CASEVAC plan
assets available
Logistics Identify CSS Refine/execute Refine/execute
Planner assets available re-supply plan re-supply plan
Determine Refine/execute Refine/execute
supply and re - re-constitution re-constitution
supply plan plan plan
Determine re -
constitution plan
S6 Identify comm o Concept of Refine signal Plan for
problems and signal support to plan signal
recommend ISR operations support of
resolutions new ISR
mission
LNOs Get copy of Provide BCT Provide BCT
BCT ops and with TF ISR plan with TF ISR
ISR overlay FRAGO

Sample Mission Analysis Worksheet
Staff Section: S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 Prepared by: DTG:

(circle one) FSO ADA ENG _______
Facts: Assumptions:
From: Tasks: S I E Task to:
From: Constraints:
Information Requirements (IR): PIR EEFI FFIR CCIR
Risks: Tactical Accidental
Combat Power / Personnel Status Combat Power / Personnel Status

Team Overall strength % ___ Critical shortages Element Overall strength % ___ Critical shortages
Notes:

Sample Mission Analysis Briefing Format

MDMP Step 3 - Course of Action Development
After receiving the restated mission, commander’s intent, and commander’s

planning guidance, the staff develops COAs for the commander’s approval.
Note the required process actions in the following graphic.
Input-Process-Output Diagram (COA Development)

• Restated mission
• CDR’s intent • Updated staff estimates
Conduct • COA statements & sketches
• CDR’s planning guidance
Staff estimates & products
Input s COA • COA briefing Output s
•
• Enemy COAs (event Development • Refined CDR ’s guidance
templates)
Process
1. Analyze relative combat power
2. Generate options
3. Array initial forces Concept includes:
4. Develop the initial concept of operations Purpose of operation
5. Assign HQ Where CDR will accept risk
6. Develop COA statements & sketches ID of critical friendly events
Designation of decisive operation
Assess tangible factors (equipment, Designation of shaping operation
etc.) Designation of sustaining operation
Assess intangible factors Designation of reserve
(morale, enemy will, etc.) ISR operations
Considers METT -TC Consider higher CDR ’s intent and concept Security operations
Compares Friendly strengths & Consider unit msn statement & CDR ’s intent & Maneuver options
weaknesses guidance Location of engagement areas and
Determines force ratios Consider air & ground avenues of approach objectives
Compares enemy strengths & weaknesses Consider multiple enemy COAs Subordinate A Os
Determine relative combat power Concept of fires
Determine FEBA or LD IO concept of support
Consider deception operations Prescribed formations or dispositions
Array friendly forces BOS priorities
Brainstorming is preferred technique Array ground forces two levels down Obstacle, fire, and maneuver integration
Determine doctrinal requirements for
WMD consideration
operation
Consider possibilities created by attachments
Start with decisive operations in CDR ’s Covers:
guidance Who (task org) Create task organization
Consider shaping operations What (tasks) Consider types of assigned units
Determine sustaining operations When Consider span of control
Determine essential tasks for each operation Where Consider entire battlefield organization
How
Why ( subordinate unit purpose)
Significant hazards
Array of generic forces
Control measures
As you begin COA development, consider the following preparation:

Assemble tools, determine players, fix and enforce timeline (have
interim time hacks)
Ensure the standard for expected products and outcomes are known –
one person (S3/XO) in charge of each or all COA
Have CDR’s intent visible – key tasks must be achieved
Have a ‘focused group’ of about 2 (XO & S3, S3 & A/S3) spend a few
minutes to draft a COA through Step 2, Generate Options, and then have
other staff join in to refine and integrate other BOS. ‘COA
Development by committee’ is generally dysfunctional if everyone starts
together from scratch
Start with the ‘picture story’ first and then the words. A ‘working
sketch’ and later a overlay, followed by a COA statement
A COA requires brain-storming and a willingness to go back, revise and
proceed by applying new ideas to previous steps at any time. BUT, it’s
not a wargame
Get back to the map, don’t lose sight of terrain.

Step 1. Analyze relative combat power.

Requires applying both military art and science; must assess tangible
factors (weapons systems, units) and intangible factors (morale, training
levels, etc)
Includes determining force ratios and comparing friendly and enemy
strengths and weaknesses:
Friendly capabilities that pertain to the operation
Type of operations possible from friendly and enemy perspective
Enemy vulnerabilities
Friendly vulnerabilities
Additional resources that may be required to execute mission
Allocation of existing resources
Rough estimate of force ratios at least 2-levels down
Planners do not develop and recommend COAs based solely on
mathematical force ratios; while useful, force ratios do not include the
environmental and human factors of warfare
Analyze intangible aspects of combat power; by comparing friendly
strengths vs. enemy weaknesses (& vice versa), planners may deduce
vulnerabilities of each force that can be exploited or need protected
Combine the numerical force ratio with the results of the analysis of
intangibles to determine the relative combat power (RCP) of friendly
and enemy forces
Determine what types of operations are feasible by comparing the force
ratio with the historical minimum planning ratios and estimating to what
extent the intangible factors affect the RCP.
Sample Analysis of Relative Combat Power
ENEMY STRENGTHS: FRIENDLY WEAKNESS: ENEMY WEAKNESS:

WEAKNESS: FRIENDLY STRENGTHS:
M: HIGHLY MOBILE M: FO
FOOOTT MOBILE M: TIED TO BPS M: ALL TERRAIN
F: TANKS F: ORGANIC FS 81mm F: FIELDS OF FIRE F: DS/GS FA
P: DUG IN P: VULNERABLE INDIRECT P: ASSAIL FLANKS P: COMPLEX TERRAIN
L: SIMPLE T-P L: INE
INEXXPERIENCE
PERIENCE L: DISPERSED C2 L: INITIATIVE
I: SPF/BW/LOCALS I: LON
LONGG LOCs I: FM RELIANT I: LCT/MI CO
GENERAL FACTORS-COMPARE ABOVE AND ANSWER “SO WHAT?” FOR EACH
SIGNIFICANT FACTORS (TTP YOU CAN APPLY IN COA):
DEFEAT DZ E ARLY
EARLY
MAXIMIZE USE OF TRUCK AND AIR MOVEMENT
EARLY EYES ON OBJ, AT AMBUSH VS TK RSV
ENVELOP REAR/INTERIOR
REAR/INTERIOR FLANKS
CONSIDER MOBILE RESERVE
MAKE ENEMY FIGHT TWO DIRECTIONS SAME TIME

Step 2. Generate Options.

Based on Cdr’s guidance and the results of RCP analysis, the staff
generates options for COAs. A good COA can defeat all feasible enemy
COAs. Commanders usually limit the options in Cdr’s guidance
Brainstorm to generate options. Staff members must be open-minded in
evaluation of COAs and quickly identify COAs that are not feasible due
to factors in their functional areas
Determine doctrinal requirements for each operation considered. For
instance, a deliberate breach operation requires a breach force, support
force, and an assault force. Consider possibilities created by attachments
Start with the decisive operation identified in Cdr’s planning guidance.
Determine the decisive operation’s purpose and consider ways to mass
effects to achieve it
Consider shaping operations. Establish a purpose for each one that is
tied to creating or preserving a condition for the decisive operation’s
success.
Determine Sustaining Operations necessary to create and maintain
combat power required for decisive and shaping operations
After developing basic organization for a given COA, determine the
essential tasks for each decisive, shaping, and sustaining operation
Examine each COA to determine if it satisfies the COA screening
criteria. Change, add, or eliminate COAs as appropriate
Avoid the common pitfall of presenting one good COA among several
“throwaway” COAs.
Step 3. Array Initial Forces.

The commander and staff array forces by backward planning from the
end state to initiation of the operation
The following steps guide the process:
Based on the generated options determine:
• The purpose of each effort
• Task(s) required by each effort to accomplish this purpose
• Initial EFSTs
• Timing and sequence of actions
Consider requirements for reconnaissance, security, and reserve
Determine the number and type forces required by each effort to
accomplish its task(s)
Allocate combat power to each operation based on assigned tasks, enemy
situation, terrain, and the commander’s stated level of risk. Combat power
is allocated starting with the main effort and continuing through supporting
efforts. General guidelines include:
• Array company sized maneuver groupings
• Allocate the type force required by each operation that maximizes the
capabilities of each type force

• Allocate the minimum combat power necessary for supporting efforts (shaping
operations)
• Weight the main effort (decisive operation) with sufficient combat power to
ensure it is capable of achieving overwhelming mass and effects against the
enemy.
Arraying Initial Forces
Do This… Remember…
Determine forces to accomplish the NOW TURN COAs OVER TO STAFF

mission “TEAMS” TO FINISH,
BUT, XO/S-3 REMAIN IN CHARGE!
1ST: Determine ratio of forces
considering entire operational
framework RATIOS ARE STARTING POINTS
Start with mission essential tasks ONLY! WILL BE ADJUSTED IN LATER
STEPS OF COA DEVELOPMENT
focused at DP/Decisive Operation
(from last step)
IDENTIFY OTHER ESSENTIAL
2ND : Array forces two levels down for
TASKS THAT SUPPORT DECISIVE,
main and then supporting efforts
SHAPING, SUSTAINING OR DEEP,
Generic ground forces along with CLOSE & REAR OPERATIONS
considerations of combat multipliers
Identify resource shortfalls DO NOT FORGET ISR TASKS!
Start to mitigate shortfall in forces available by considering:

What forces can do multiple tasks
Re-tasking to achieve similar or same purposes with less force
Assume risk and / or mitigate with combat multipliers
Request additional resources.
Step 4. Develop COA Statement / Initial Concept of Operations.

Concept of Operations describes how arrayed forces will accomplish the
mission within the Cdr’s intent
Staff develops a concept of operations for each COA
Simultaneous operations are preferred, allowing commanders to seize
and retain initiative. If initial array of forces shows a shortfall, planners
may phase the operation. Consider these factors:
the skill and size of the opponent
the size of the AO
operational reach
available joint support
the scope of the mission
the success of the decisive operation.

Refine the initial array of forces by using graphic control measures to

coordinate the operation and show relationship of friendly forces to one
another, terrain, and enemy (During this step unit types are changed
from generic to specific)
Concept of the operation includes:
the purpose of the operation
a statement of where the commander will accept tactical risk
identification of critical friendly events and transitions between phases
designation of the decisive operation, along with its task and purpose
designation of shaping and sustaining operations, along with their tasks and
purposes, linked to how they support the decisive operation
designation of reserve, including its location, composition, task, and the
purpose of ISR and Security operations
Identification of maneuver options that may develop during an operation
Location of engagement areas, or attack objectives and counterattack
objectives
Assignment of subordinate AOs
Concept of fires
IO concept of support including military deception
Prescribed formations or dispositions, when necessary.
Priorities for each BOS
Integration of obstacle effects with maneuver and fires
Consideration of the effects of enemy WMD on the force.
Go back to the map. Create a picture visualization of the scheme of

maneuver. When refined, it will become the operations overlay.
Apply Control Measures.

Select control measures (graphics) to control subordinate units during
the operation
Base control measures on the array of forces and concept of operations
Control measures clarify responsibilities and help commanders
synchronize combat power at decisive points while minimizing
fratricide risk
Recommend minimum control measures needed to control the operation
Control measures should not split avenues of approach or key terrain
Leave space on the flanks of each AA to allow for maneuver and fires
Phase lines may be used to trigger execution of branches and sequels.
When developing the concept of operations, use any forces remaining

from the initial array to weight the decisive operation, strengthen the
reserve, or increase ISR operations.

Step 5. Assign Headquarters.

Create Task Organization
Consider types of units to be assigned to a HQ and span of control (at
least 2-subordinate maneuver units, but not more than five)
Consider the entire battlefield organization
Consider special command and control requirements for ops such as
passage of lines, river crossing, or air assault.
Step 6. Develop COA Statements and Sketches.

COA Statement
Clearly portray how the unit will accomplish the mission and explain the
concept of operation
Include mission and endstate
Written in terms of battlefield organization
Include ISR, fire support, and engineer concepts
Address risk
COA Sketch
Depict terrain
Array the enemy
Apply higher’s graphics
Show concept of operation
Building the COA sketch.
Step 1. Depict terrain
ES
SI
O
N
N
PR
DE
KE
LA
GR
AV
EL
HIL
LS
OPEL
MTNS
• Show key and decisive terrain BLACK MTNS
• Show significant changes in relief

• Show principle vegetated areas
• Show built-up areas
• Any other feature that plays a significant role in the scheme
of maneuver

Step 2. Array the enemy
II
I
I
PR
ES
S IO
N
I II I N
DE I
KE
LA
I
I
II
I I
I
GR
AV
E LH
ILL
S
OPEL
MTNS
BLACK MTNS
• Show known and templated elements

• Depict enemy two levels down
• Enemy array should resemble S2’s sit temp
Step 3. Apply higher HQ graphics
LOA
(PL REAGAN)
II O/O FEBA
O
N I
(PL CARTER)
N
SI I II
ES I
PR
DE I
PL KENNEDY
KE
LA I
OBJ I
I
II FISH
X
X
I
PL REAGAN
X
I PL HOOVER
I
GR
AV
EL BHO
HIL
O/O FEBA LS
(PL GARFIELD)
(PL CARTER)
LD/LC
(PL LINCOLN)
OPEL
PL KENNEDY
MTNS
X
BLACK MTNS
PL HOOVER
• Use all control measures from overlay

• Do not rename higher’s control measures(PL GARFIELD)
BHO
LD/LC
(PL LINCOLN)

Step 4. Sample COA Statement and Sketch
LOA
(PL REAGAN)
II O/O FEBA
(PL CARTER)
KE
LA )
I
N
N I II OBJ
CK IO I
BA SS CAT PL KENNEDY
D DE PRE I
E
CU (D I
OBJ I
II
X
FISH
X
I
X
PL REAGAN I
PL HOOVER
I
II
GR
AV
E LH
ILL BHO
O/O FEBA S
(PL GARFIELD)
(PL CARTER)
LD/LC
2-3
(PL LINCOLN)
OPEL
PL KENNEDY
MTNS
X
BLACK MTNS
PL HOOVER
TF 2-3, as part of the Bde

Decisive Operation, attacks in
zone to breach the MDL and
BHO
secure OBJ CAT to pass the (PL GARFIELD) LD/LC
Exploitation Force (PL LINCOLN)
Building the COA Statement.

Have a logical flow
Cover entire battlefield framework (close, deep, rear, security, shaping,
or possibly sustaining)
Include fire support and engineer concepts
Address risk
The COA sketch includes:

Arrayed forces and graphic control measures
Unit boundaries
Unit movement formations
FEBA or LD/LC and subsequent phase lines
Reconnaissance and security graphics
Ground and air axis of advance
Obstacle control measures
Fire support coordination measures
Designation of the main effort and supporting effort
Location of command posts
Enemy known or templated locations
Identifies key terrain

Sample COA Briefing Format
Roll Call
XO
Purpose and Agenda
Brief changes only
1. Weather changes
2. Update most likely enemy COA
3. Threat evaluation Weather changes
S2 4. Threat Evaluation
5. Update Most Likely Enemy COA
6. Update Most Dangerous Enemy
COA
7. R&S Efforts and Results
Division Mission and Intent (Chart)
Brigade Mission & Intent (Chart)
S3
CDR’s Initial Planning Guidance Bullets
(Chart)
COA Statement and Sketch (Chart)
S3 Plans Officer
Describe COA
BOS Brief by Exception
Decision
CDR Intent
Further Planning Guidance
Prepare WARNORD #3 (See Appendix
34, 34A)
S3 Plans Officer If Necessary, Prepare R&S FRAGO
Get Approval of WARNORD #3 and
R&S FRAGO
Issue WARNORD #3 and R&S FRAGO,
Battle Captain if applicable.
Ensure Acknowledgment
XO Conduct Targeting Meeting

MDMP Step 4 - Course of Action Analysis (War gaming)
COA Analysis allows the staff to synchronize the BOS for each COA and
identify which COA best accomplishes the mission. This step is comprised
of two parts: war-gaming and contingency planning. The war game is a
disciplined process that attempts to visualize the flow of the battle,
synchronize friendly assets/unit actions, and identify contingencies. If the
commander is present for the war game, he will conduct contingency
planning concurrently. If he is not, the S3 will do so immediately following
the war game.
Input-Process-Output Diagram (COA Analysis)
Wargame results to
include:
Staff estimates
Perform Concept of Ops
IPB (enemy COAs)
Inputs Sync matrix Outputs
COA Statement & sketch COA
Ops overlay
Supporting staff Analysis Decision spt template
functional COAs
Task Org
Updated CCIR
Process
Gather the tools

General War-gaming Rules List all friendly forces
List assumptions
Remain objective. Avoid defending a COA just because you developed it. List known critical events & decision points
Remain objective. Avoid defending a COA just because you developed it.
Accurately record advantages and disadvantages. Determine evaluation criteria
Accurately record advantages and disadvantages.
Continually assess feasibility, acceptability, and suitability of each COA. If a Select the war game method
Continually assess feasibility, acceptability, and suitability of each COA. If a
COA fails, reject it. Select a method to record & display results
COA fails, reject it.
Avoid premature conclusions.
Avoid premature conclusions. War-game the battle and assess results
Avoid comparing one COA with another before you get to COA comparison.
Avoid comparing one COA with another before you get to COA comparison.
War Game Methods
The TF Planning Staff will utilize one of two different methods (Hasty and
Deliberate) for conducting war gaming. The XO selects the method based on
time available.
Hasty Method. In the Hasty Method, discussion is limited to primary BOS

representatives with input from various staff members limited to a "by-
exception" basis. The commander will provide direct input.

Deliberate Method. The TF XO will utilize the Deliberate War Game

Method with only a few key staff members required. The Deliberate Method
will entail developing two or more courses of action, war gaming each
separately and developing a consolidated staff recommendation for a single
COA. The TF Commander will be present to provide specific guidance on
one directed COA. If time permits, the plans team will analyze all critical
events for that COA. Staff members only provide the priorities for their
particular BOS as it pertains to the directed COA. This allows the staff to
present the COA, war game it, and gain Commander's approval.
Representation During Directed and Hasty War Game Methods
POSITION DELIBERATE WAR GAME HASTY WAR GAME

Commander Guidance Direct input
XO Facilitator Facilitator
S3 Fights Blue Force Fights Blue Force
Fights Most Likely
S2 Fights Most Likely ECOA ECOA
and most dangerous ISR Operations
ISR Operations Recorder Synch Matrix
ASST S3 Recorder Synch Matrix Priorities of CSS
S1 / S4 Priorities of CSS M/CS/S Priorities
EN CO XO M/CS/S Priorities Commo Plan & C2
SIGO By Exception
CHEMO By Exception
MED PL By Exception
ADO
The TF XO moderates the war game, facilitates and focuses discussion, and
resolves disputes to keep the war game on schedule.
Prior to war-gaming a COA, the XO or S3 conducts a COA synchronization

meeting. The synchronization meeting offers the planners the opportunity to
lay out the courses of action to the entire battle staff, focusing on the critical
actions identified in COA development. The S3 or assistant S3, armed with a
COA statement and sketch, outlines the concept of operation and highlights
any specific BOS requirements to make the COA feasible. Secondly, the
meeting offers the battle staff the opportunity to make subsequent
adjustments and refinements to the COA. Most importantly, it ensures the
entire staff fully understands the COA before war gaming.

War Game Techniques
Determine how much time is available for the war game and ensure that
this limit is observed.
Allocate a specific amount of time for each COA. (Normally more for
the first COA because of slower initial process).
Conduct the war game according to the prioritized list of critical events
within allotted timeline.
War game critical events.
Use a synchronization matrix or war game worksheet. Critical events are
identified and war gamed by battlefield operating system, with four
columns, headed: Action, Reaction, Counteraction, and Reaction.
Action / Reaction / Counteraction (Friendly Offense):

Action (assuming friendly forces have the initiative)
Planner uses mission(s) or event(s) initiated by friendly forces.
What additional assets are required or available to execute the action?
Reaction (Enemy Defense)
S2 uses SITTEMP/event templates.
Enemy's reaction in relation to friendly action.
What assets did he use to react? Can we target them?
Is the enemy reaction something we must counter?
If the COA will counter the enemy reaction, no need to counter.
Counteraction
How do we prevent or counter his reaction?
If we can target the enemy's reaction, how do we target it? Decide, Detect,
Deliver, Assess.
Use combat, combat support, and combat service support assets to ensure
mission accomplishment.
Action / Reaction / Counteraction (Friendly Defense):

Action – S2
Reaction – S3
Counteraction – S2

Sample Wargaming Procedures
Gather the Tools/Assemble the Battle staff. Post the COA Statement and
Sketch. (Note: A preferred technique is to supplement this with an overview
sketch of each critical engagement for all COAs on a dry erase board with
copy capability. Beneath each sketch, the assistant S3 lists critical
battles/events and the S2 lists pertinent expected enemy activities associated
with that engagement). Post the Initial (Draft) Commander's Intent and
Commander's Guidance from Mission Analysis. Erect the war gaming table
with map and tentative graphics. Gather the battle staff. Distribute copies of
the COA statement and sketch (on one document if possible).
Brief the Course of Action. S2 quickly reviews the SITTEMP and any
pertinent intelligence updates. Planner briefs general concept of the
operation. Planner briefs scheme of maneuver for each phase and / or critical
engagement.
Questions on Course of Action. The XO / S3 opens the floor for clarification
of the COA. (This is NOT the time for BOS input; rather, it is a chance to
ensure the plans team understands the COA before proceeding).
BOS Input. XO / S3 queries each member of the battle staff to provide the
following:
Any suggested modifications to the COA
Brief general concept on how his BOS will support the COA
Alibi Time. Any member of the battle staff may address any issue
pertinent to the COA not covered to their satisfaction to this point.
Open the board up for BOS graphics input / analysis.
The most critical phase of the war game is preparation. Following are some
of the critical preparation responsibilities.
TF S2 generates enemy OB, situational template at H-Hour, enemy

movement rates, enemy objectives, enemy unit footprints, and most likely
course of action. All enemy maneuver units are represented down to platoon
equivalents (recon forces down to section level).

The assistant S3 is responsible for friendly OB and initial lay down;

movement plan and rates; COAs to be gamed; higher headquarters plans,
limitations on the TF; resources; standard combat results charts; unit
footprints; and means; fire and maneuver control measures; and, external
force multipliers over time (CAS, deception, etc.). He assigns one officer the
responsibility to record the results of the game on a synchronization matrix
on which all friendly units are represented to platoon level. Obstacles and
key control graphics are posted on the overlay.
The Battalion Fire Support Officer (FSO) is responsible for developing

essential fire support tasks to support the TF during the war game,
organization for combat, basic loads and expenditure rates, ranges and
movement data, target acquisition capabilities and priorities, munitions
effects, unit footprints, and developing/recording artillery engagements for
each turn.
The Engineer Company XO is responsible for task organization, bridge and

route capabilities, bridging and breaching units and capabilities, obstacle
capacities and logistic supportability, route maintenance factors, etc.
The TF S4 is responsible for the logistics footprint, general consumption

factors for TAAs, movement of trains and TFSA, combat over time, logistics
architecture, and critical shortfalls in special ammunition, supplies, or
equipment.
Have available examples of critical events and decision points in the offense:
passage of lines; breaching of main obstacle belt; penetration; reaction to
counterattack; seizing the objectives; BCT shaping operations, including use
of artillery fires and attack helicopters.
Have available examples of critical events and decision points in the

defense: security operations; counter-reconnaissance fight; destruction of
first echelon forces; destruction of follow-on forces; commitment of reserve;
battle handover.
The S2 identifies the enemy situation expected at the start of the war game.
Unit locations, strengths, postures, and probable intents are specified. The
specific enemy course of action to be wargamed is explained.
The XO or S3 explains the anticipated status of the TF for the beginning of

the game. He reviews the COA to be gamed, the technique to be used, the
general time or event intervals for each belt, and the time allocated for the
process.

The game starts at the first reliably known start point for the task force,
either in the TAA, defensive sector, or LD / LC.
War Game Tools

Map of AO
Commander’s guidance
Understanding of nesting concepts
Battle staff assessment of how their assets best support a COA
COA statement(s) and graphics
Operational graphics overlay
List of friendly forces available
Enemy situational and event templates
List of enemy reinforcing forces
List of friendly critical events
List of enemy critical events
List of friendly decision points
List of enemy decision points
Friendly and enemy icons
Synchronization matrix to record war game
Tablet to record specified tasks for units, decision points, and strengths
and weaknesses of each COA
Alcohol-based markers, with eraser pen / alcohol & paper towels
Blank piece of acetate placed over operations graphics for use as
"scribble graphics"
Imagery (as available / applicable)
Task organization chart (updated during war game)
Rules for Identification of Friendly Decision Points (DP):

S3 announces "Friendly DP"
Asst S3 assigns DP number
Asst S3 identifies DP location and posts on map
S2 identifies PIR linkage
Asst S3 identifies EEFI/FFIR linkage
S3 validates NAI-FAI linkage
S2 identifies enemy criteria
S3 identifies friendly criteria
Staff validates friendly criteria
Planning Staff conducts hasty war game of friendly reaction
XO confirms and validates all aspects of the DP

ROE for Identification of Enemy Decision Points (DP):

S2 announces "Enemy Decision Point"
S2 assigns DP number
S2 identifies location of DP and posts on map
S2 identifies enemy criteria
S3 identifies friendly criteria
Staff validates friendly criteria
Staff conducts hasty war game of friendly reaction
XO confirms and validates all aspects of the DP

S3 FSO
COA state m ent / sketch
S2 Essential fire support tasks from guidance
Critical tim es
Proposed observer plan
SITEM P Partially refined graphics
H igher schem e of fires
EVENTEM P Task organization chart
Targets fired by DS BN
ECO As on butcher paper Specified / im plied tasks
CAS sorties /projected ACAs
EW assets baseline locations FFIR
CO LT positions
Tentative low-level voice A2C2 plan / CASEVAC routes
Tentative m ortar locations
Intercept (LLVI) locations Tasks / purposes from guidance
H igh Payoff Target List (H PTL)
Prevailing winds direction Proposed critical friendly zones
Proposed fire-shift triggers
Staff Inputs to Wargaming
XO
K nown decision points ADO
S2 Critical events to be wargam ed Staff Inputs Tentative system s positions
S2
Enem y repositioning PIR / NAI linkages To M ovem ent triggers
Reserve comm itm ent Wargaming Anticipated W CS changes
Special m unitions use S1 / S4
Obstacle locations
Fort Leavenworth, KS 66027-2346 Scout recon tim eline Projected supply status ENG
Engineer assets available
Reconnaissance operations Projected personnel status
Tentative AXP locations Tentative breach sites
S3 Tentative trains location Directed obstacles
M ovem ent rates Tentative m obile preposition / Tentative situational obstacles
Breach tim eline cache locations OBSINTEL focus
Actions on the objective
Casualty estim ate

Direct fire plan Non-standard CASEVAC plan SIGO CHEM O
M ain effort comm itm ent Tentative RETRANS site Potential decon sites
Tentative CL III, IV, V point plan
Reserve comm itm ent Tentative CP jum p sites Decon augm entation
FSO
FSO Redundancy plan Tem plated chem ical strikes
E xample Sm oke build
-up -tim
up etim e Example Tentative FO X positioning
Synchronization O bscuration for support elem ent
Staff Inputs
Suppression for breach elem ent
O bscuration for breach elem ent
M
M ortar
ortar platoon
platoon positioning
positioning
O bservation plan
Page 73
www-bctc.army.mil
Sample War Game Worksheet
TIME OR CRITICAL EVENT

SEQUENCE
NUMBER
ACTION
REACTION
COUNTER ACTION
ASSETS
TIME
DECISION POINT
CCIR
CONTROL
MEASURES
REMARKS
Use one sheet per phase.
Synchronization Matrix.
Sample Synchronization Matrix
TIME
H - ______ H - HOUR H + ______ H + ______
EVENT
ENEMY ACTION
DECISION
POINTS
M TM A
A
N
TM B
E
U
V TM C
E
R
TM D
FIRE SPT
ADA
AVN
ENG
INTEL
CSS
C2
NOTES

Decision Support Matrix

The Decision Support Matrix should contain certain basic elements.
Decisions can be triggered by enemy activity or friendly status and are
usually linked to NAIs (specific points on the ground where activity may be
expected). For decisions linked to targeting, listing TAIs will focus
planning. Conditions and friendly actions should be as specific as possible
to ensure understanding of the decision and the information required to
support it.
Sample Decision Support Matrix
DP CCIR NAI TAI Conditions Friendly Action

1 Assault force identified on AA1, 2, or Mass situational obstacle on AA.
a/b/c PIR 1, 2 1, 3, 5 3. Recon / Fix Force defeated. Consider repositioning combat power.
1, 3, 5 1, 3, 5 BTG FS assets located. Batteries in Attack enemy FS assets with FA &

2 PIR 5
place for SEAD. CAS.
TF 1 RPOL. Attach PLT in contact

3 PIR 2, 3 1, 3, 5, 6 TF1 defeats Fixing Force; attrits Asslt to MBA CO (2 or 3). ME / POF to
FFIR 1 Force; or TF at 70% combat power.
CO 2 or 3..
PIR 4 Reposition: attach 1 X PLT + AT

4a 1, 2, 3, 7 Expl Force AA confirmed; west.
SEC from CO 2 to CO 3.
Reposition: attach 1 X PLT from CO
4b PIR 4 5, 6, 8 Expl Force AA confirmed; east.
1 to CO 2.
PIR 4 Potential penetration of PL SILVER Commit BN Reserve; attach to CO

5 7, 8
FFIR 3, 4 by CO+ or BN less than 60%. 2 or CO 3.
War Game Briefing

Staff reviews the war game to ensure that the decision brief to the
commander covers all relevant points. It is given to the XO, including:
Higher headquarters mission, Commander’s intent, and deception plan
Updated IPB
Enemy COAs war gamed
Friendly COAs war gamed
Assumptions.
War gaming technique used
For each COA war gamed:

Critical events war gamed
Possible enemy actions and reactions
Modifications to the COA
Strengths and weaknesses
Results of the war game

Sample Briefing Order and Setup
Briefing Order Maps /Imagery

First: Briefing Charts
Intel update
1:50,000 & Blowups
Friendly SITREP
COA Overview
Friendly Laydown:
MACRO situation CDR
CP locations Dry Erase Board
Friendly situation
Briefing Charts
Enemy Laydown:
MACRO ASST
Enemy situation S1 XO S4 S3
Enemy BOS
Friendly Action:
S3
Maneuver ENG WARGAME MAP
Intelligence
Fires Horizontal / Elevated) S3 Screen
Mob / Surv CHEMO Scribe
ADO SCRIBE SCRIBE
SYNC MATRIX
Airspace FSO
C3 S2
AD S6
CSS MED
PL
Chem PL
CCIR
Enemy Reaction:
Additional Seating
Reverse BOS
Friendly Counter-action:
BOS by exception
Losses By BOS

MDMP Step 5 - Course of Action Comparison
COA comparison starts with all the staff members analyzing and evaluating
the advantages and disadvantages of each COA from their perspectives.
Staff members each present their findings for the other’s consideration.
Using the evaluation criteria developed before the war game, the staff
outlines each COA and highlights its advantages and disadvantages. By
comparing the strengths and weaknesses of each COA, a logical choice
emerges.
Input-Process-Output Diagram (COA Comparison)
Perform
• War game results • Decision matrix Outputs
• Staff estimates
Inputs COA • COA decision briefing
Comparison
Process
• Conduct a COA advantage & disadvantage analysis
• Compare COAs
• Develop a recommended COA
The selected COA should represent the highest probability of success against
the most likely enemy COA and the most dangerous COA and:
pose the minimum risk to the force and mission accomplishment
place the force in the best posture for future operations
provide maximum latitude for initiative by subordinates
provide the most flexibility to meet unexpected threats and
opportunities.

MDMP Step 6 - Course of Action Approval
COA Approval has three components.
Input-Process-Output Diagram (COA Approval)
Three Components
Perform
Staff recommends a COA COA CDR decides which COA to approve
Approval
• CDR issues final planning guidance
Decision Matrix
A Decision Matrix is a tool that helps the commander visualize the
comparison results of the wargame.
Sample Relative Value Decision Matrix
Decision Matrix
Courses of Action Advantages Disadvantages
COA 1 resses the

tive that add
Brief Narra ntages of
and disadva
advantages
ntified
COA 2 each COA ide
Evaluation Criteria to Consider Course of Action Scoring

(Discussion)
COA 1 COA 1 COA 1
Casualty estimate
Achieve CDR’s intent
Effects of attachments d or
s” may be use
“Plus -minu
ended to ring
Employment of reserve tors. Not int numerical sco
Example fac ays
Terrain obstacles be all -inclusive or alw
Fires effects applicable
Force ratios
Main Attack
Supporting Attack

Decision Briefing
The purpose of the decision briefing is to allow the commander the benefit
of the staff’s analysis of how the fight unfolds, a dispassionate analysis of
the COAs war gamed, and the staff recommendation. While there are
differences in the stated formats in FM 101-5 and FM 5-0, this purpose
should be the constant factor influencing the format. Following are the listed
formats in both FMs.
FM101-5
Intent of higher headquarters
Restated mission
Status of own forces
Updated intelligence estimate presentation of COAs
Recommended COA
FM 5-0
Enemy COA that were war-gamed
Friendly COAs that were war-gamed
Wargaming technique used
For each COA war-gamed (critical events, possible enemy actions and
reactions, modifications to the COA, strengths and weaknesses)
Results of the war game

Sample COA Decision Briefing

MDMP Step 7 - Orders Production
The staff prepares the order or plan by turning the selected COA into a clear,
concise concept of operations and required supporting information. The
concept of operations for the approved COA becomes the concept of
operations for the plan, and the COA sketch the basis for the operations
overlay. Commanders review and approve orders before the staff reproduces
and disseminates them.
Input-Process-Output Diagram (Orders Production)
Produce
Staff prepares the order or plan by turning
Staff preparesCOA
the order The
the selected into aorclear,
planconcise
by turning
the selected
concept of COA into a clear, concise
operations. Order
concept of operations.
The concept of operations for the

The conceptCOA
approved of operations
becomes for
the the
concept of
approved COA
operations forbecomes
the plan.the concept of
operations for the plan. The XO or S3 receive the order.
The XO or S3 receive the order.
The COA sketch becomes the basis for the

The COA sketch
operations becomes the basis for the
overlay. The commander reviews and approves
operations overlay. The commander
order reviews and and
before reproduction approves
dissemination.
order before reproduction and dissemination.
Staff implements risk controls by The order communicates how controls are The order is briefed to subordinate
Staff implements risk controls by The The order is briefed
CDRtoand
subordinate
coordinating and integrating them into the putorder communicates
into effect, how controls are
their implementation, and commanders.
commanders.
staff conduct
coordinating
order. and integrating them into the put
howinto effect,
they their
fit into implementation,
the and
overall operation. confirmationCDR andwith
briefing staffsubordinates
conduct
order. how they fit into the overall operation. confirmation
afterwards. briefing with subordinates
afterwards.
Battalion Orders Briefing

Each staff section should provide their input to the brief on one generic,
weather-proofed briefing board. These boards should contain only that
information which is pertinent to the subordinate commanders receiving the
order. The OPORD briefing should follow a format whereby the briefing
will be kept to approximately one hour. The format for FRAGO briefings
should be adjusted as necessary and brief only the changes to the current
operation.

Sample Orders Briefing Format
ORDER OF BRIEF BRIEFER TIME

INTRODUCTION/ROLL CALL XO 2 MIN
AREA OF OPERATIONS/INTEREST XO 2 MIN
TERRAIN/WEATHER S2 5 MIN
ENEMY/EVENT TEMPLATE S2 10 MIN
MISSION/INTENT (1&2 HIGHER) XO 3 MIN
BDE CONCEPT XO 5 MIN
TASK ORGANIZATION XO 2 MIN
TF MISSION XO 1 MIN
TF CDR’S INTENT CDR 2 MIN
CONCEPT/SCHEME OF S3 5 MIN
MANEUVER
FIRES/EW FSO 5 MIN
AIR DEFENSE* ADO 2 MIN
NBC* CHEMO 2 MIN
M/CM/S* EN 2 MIN
R&S AS2 2 MIN
AIR MOVEMENT* S3 AIR 4 MIN
TASKS TO SUBORDINATE UNITS S3 5 MIN
COORDINATING INSTRUCTIONS S3 5 MIN
LOGISTICS S4 4 MIN
CASEVAC MEDO 1 MIN
CA/PSYOP/LEGAL/RELIGIOUS* S1 1 MIN
C2 S3/SIGO 1 MIN
TIMELINE REVIEW XO 1 MIN
TF CDR’S CDR 5 MIN
VISUALIZATION/COMMENTS
TOTAL 78 MIN
Orders Annexes
Following is a list of orders annexes. Units may dictate which annexes and
appendices they want to accompany their base order and their length.
Annex A (Task Organization)

Annex B (Intelligence)
Annex C (Operation Overlay)
Annex D (Fire Support)
Annex E (Rules of Engagement (ROE))
Annex F (Engineer)
Annex G (Air Defense)
Annex H (Signal)
Annex I (Service Support)
Annex J (Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical (NBC) Operations)
Annex K (Provost Marshal (PM))
Annex L (Reconnaissance and Surveillance Operations)
Annex M (Deep Operations)
Annex N (Rear Operations)
Annex O (Airspace Command and Control (AC2))
Annex P (Command and Control Warfare (C2W))

Annex Q (Operations Security (OPSEC))

Annex R (PSYOP)
Annex S (Deception)
Annex T (Electronic Warfare (EW))
Annex U (Civil-Military Operations (CMO))
Annex V (Public Affairs)
As a general rule Annexes A, B, C, D, F, and I accompany the base order.
If the OPORD is for an offensive operation, generally only the enemy event
template, operations, and fires overlay will be disseminated with the order;
defensive orders will also include an engineer overlay. Other overlays, such
as air defense and CSS, will be completed and remain posted or accessible in
the TOC but not necessarily disseminated.
The development of the base OPLAN / OPORD is a continuous process

during the MDMP, but becomes the staff’s main focus following the war
game. The battalion may use a matrix order to expedite the final step of the
MDMP. The order will be neatly hand-written with only the essential
information required for company commanders, specialty platoon leaders,
and supporting elements to issue their plans.
Reproduction and Dissemination

The XO will review all staff annexes before passing them to the S3 for
assembly and reproduction with the base order. Reproduction will be IAW
the unit standard distribution list, however, show distribution to reinforcing,
supporting and adjacent units, since such a listing does not normally include
these units.
The S3 will receive acknowledgements from subordinates that they received

the order.

SPECIAL STAFF PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS
Fire Support Planning Checklist
This section addresses the organization of the TF Fire Support Element, the
supporting Tactical Air Control Party (TACP), and indirect fire assets /
capabilities, and TF planning / fires integration procedures.
TF Fire Support Element (FSE). The FSE is designed to help the task force
commander and staff integrate FS and lethal and non-lethal effects into all
plans. The major functions of the FSE are to:
Plan, control, and synchronize all FS.
Establish priorities and allocate available FS resources to support the
TF.
Participate in and supervise the routine activity and coordination of the
targeting process within the task force main CP.
Coordinate with the A2C2 element regarding artillery firing unit
locations, changes to FSCMs, and airspace coordination measures
(ACMs).
Coordinate air support through the TACP.
Coordinate suppression of enemy air defense (SEAD) and / or joint
SEAD (J-SEAD) operations.
Coordinate combat aviation employment with FS operations.
Air Force units are attached to the TF to plan, control, and direct close air
support. The TACP is the normal air force asset attached to the TF.
The TACP is attached to the TF to assist in the integration and

synchronization of air power into TF operations and is composed of:
Air Liaison Officer (USAF Captain as Forward Area Controller)
Tactical Air Control Party
The TACP performs the following functions:

Serves as the Air Force commander’s representative, providing advice to
the TF commander and staff on the capabilities, limitations, and
employment of air support, airlift, and reconnaissance.
Provides a coordination interface with respective FS and A2C2
personnel; assists in the synchronization of air and surface fires and
preparation of the air support plan; and provides direct liaison for local
air defense and airspace management activities.
Requests Close Air Support for the Task Force.
Serves as Forward Air Controllers.

Indirect fire assets

Paladin, M109A6. The M109A6 Paladin howitzer is an armored, full tracked
howitzer carrying 37 complete conventional rounds and two copperhead
projectiles. The Paladin has a maximum rate of fire of three rounds per
minute for the first three minutes followed by a one-round-per-minute
sustained rate of fire. The M109A6 fires the full complement of 155-mm
ammunition with a maximum range of 22 kilometers for unassisted
projectiles, 30 kilometers for the rocket-assisted projectile (RAP) and 27
kilometers for the base-burn dual purpose improved conventional munitions
(BBDPICM).
Artillery Munitions
COPPERHEAD is a 155-mm cannon launched guided projectile with a
shaped charge and laser seeker. The optimum use of COPPERHEAD is
against multiple targets in large arrays outside the range of maneuver direct
fire systems. Moving targets can be engaged at a range of three to four KM
depending on the skill of the observer. Stationary targets can be engaged out
to five KM. The minimum visibility for effective COPPERHEAD use is
five KM. Angle T should not exceed eight hundred mils left or right of the
gun-target line.
Cannon Artillery Smoke Rounds. Plan for no more than sixty minutes of
smoke from a DS battalion. Both White Phosphorous (WP) and Smoke
rounds take thirty seconds time to build up effective smoke. WP rounds have
an average burn time of sixty to ninety seconds per round while Smoke
rounds average burn time is five to ten minutes.
Cannon Artillery Illumination Rounds – can fire out to a range of 17,500

meters. The average burn time for each round is two minutes. With a range
and lateral spread can cover illumination diameter of one thousand meters.
Dual Purpose Improved Conventional Munition (DPICM). DPICM is used

against arrays of armored targets. It has a high dud rate and should not be
fired on intended maneuver axes or where dismounted operations will occur.
Maximum range is approximately 18,000 meters; 28,400 meters for
extended range DPICM.

Family of Scatterable Mines (FASCAM). Normal emplacement is a 400 x

400 meter or 200 x 800 meter minefield. Plan for no more than two missions.
A dedicated battery requires thirty minutes to fire one minefield. Duration of
minefield can normally lasts four to twenty-four hours depending on
munition settings. Use of FASCAM munitions requires higher headquarters
approval.
Rocket Assisted Projectile (RAP)(extends range of munitions out to 30,000

meters). Very limited supply, only ten percent of unit basic load for DS
artillery.
Availability of DS Cannon Battalion Fires and Positioning

Since the DS Artillery Battalion supports the entire BCT, indirect fires from
the paladin cannon battalion is not always available to the TF. Much of the
time the primary use of the DS Artillery Battalion is to provide the BCT
force protection using counter fire to keep the enemy’s indirect fires off of
the maneuver TF elements allowing them freedom of maneuver.
For planning purposes the TF can plan on one or two priority targets when
they are the main effort of the BCT. However if the TF is the supporting
effort, then the TF should plan on using the mortars for one or two priority
targets and not the DS artillery battalion.
During offensive movement, the artillery batteries are positioned forward

behind the lead TF to range deep targets.
For force protection, the artillery batteries are integrated within the TF.
When the DS cannon battalion fires missions, normally the entire battalion
(eighteen howitzers) fire on a single target with three rounds each. By
massing the indirect fires on one target, they are much more effective.
The M120 mortar is capable of firing fifteen rounds per minute for the first
minute, with a sustained rate of fire of four rounds per minute after the first
minute. It is capable of firing high explosives, illumination, and white
phosphorus rounds to a maximum range of 7,200 meters. Mortars provide
the TF commander with the most responsive fires. Use the mortars for FPFs,
and for initiating and sustaining smoke missions. They are also effective in
urban areas given high angle fire and comparatively reduced collateral
effects.

If a priority target is designated then the TF commander can expect rounds

on the target within a minute or less depending on the time of flight. When
planning the use of mortars during maneuver, establish ammunition cache
sites along likely routes to facilitate rapid resupply.
The TF Mortar Net is the primary means to clear mortar fires and the TF
Fires Net is the alternate net. The mortar platoon is normally kept together
under centralized control and but can be split into two sections.
Within the TF, mortars will normally be given to the supporting effort.
Mortars are effective when employed against dismounts covering obstacles,
covering infiltration and exfiltration routes, and for providing immediate
smoke.
Advantages and Limitations of Mortars
ADVANTAGES LIMITATIONS
Fast response rate Short range
High rate of fire Limited ammo carrying capacity
Fire from deep defilade Ammo resupply
Fire without FDC Less accurate in high winds
High-angle fire Detected by radar
Attack targets on reverse slopes Ineffective against point targets
Simplicity Lack of organic survey and MET
Multiple Launched Rocket System. M270 / M270A1 MLRS Self-

Propelled Loader-Launcher (SPLL)
The M270 MLRS is a mobile, self-propelled, self-loading, multiple launch
rocket system. It provides mobile long-range artillery rocket and missile
support for ground forces. The M270A1 is capable of firing the entire MLRS
family of munitions to include all Army tactical missiles. The M270A1 is
capable of holding either two-launch pod containers of six rockets per
container or two guided missile launch assemblies containing one missile
each. With the M26A1 extended range rocket, the MLRS SPLL can fire
twelve rockets in sixty seconds at multiple aim points out to a range of fifty
kilometers. It also has the capability of firing two missiles aimed at one or
two separate aim points in twenty seconds. Compared to mortars and
cannon artillery, MLRS is slower to set-up and respond to calls for fire.
Danger close areas are greater than for mortars and cannon artillery (May be
available to TF in special situations).

Planning and Integrating Fires

Force Responsibilities. The brigade plays a vital role in TF fire support
planning and execution. With the exception of the task force mortars, the
brigade is the "provider" of indirect fires. Discussion of fire support planning
and execution at the task force level must first start with the role of the
brigade.
Brigade. The Brigade develops a synchronized scheme of maneuver and

concept of fires and translates that concept into a scheme of fires by
assigning fire support tasks and allocating assets and effects to subordinates.
As part of the concept of fires, the brigade sets conditions for and provides
indirect fires to the task force for the close or direct firefight. Fires in support
of the task force close fight are provided for a specific period of time or a
specific purpose. The brigade must clearly specify when indirect fires will
transition to the task force and when the task force will lose them.
The TF role in fire support planning includes the following:

Understand the integration of the brigade scheme of maneuver and fires
Understand the TF role in the brigade scheme of fires and maneuver
Execute the TF portion of the brigade scheme of fires and EFST
Develop a task force concept and scheme of fires
Integrate and refine brigade targets for the close fight
Plan for the synchronization of the task force mortars with the scheme of
fires and their movement with the scheme of maneuver
Incorporate bottom-up refinement from the company teams
Forward the TF concept of fires and target refinements to brigade
Conduct rehearsals
Task Force Commander. The key role of the task force commander in
indirect fire planning is the synchronization of fires with maneuver. Fires
and maneuver must be thought of together. Commanders must first decide
precisely what they want their fires to accomplish.
Top-down fire planning is a continuous process of analyzing, allocating, and

scheduling fire support. It determines:
How fire support will be used and what the essential fire support tasks
are
What types of targets will be attacked, resulting in the high-payoff target
list (decide)
What type of targets will not be attacked
What collection assets are available to acquire and track the targets
(detect / track)

What assets will be used to attack different targets; what munitions,

what effects, and when will they be engaged (deliver)
System preferences for various targets
What assets are available to verify (assess) effects on the target
When planning fires, it is essential to address the following aspects of each

essential fire support task and target:
Purpose
Location
Trigger
Shooter and backup shooter
Communications structure
Rehearsal
Delivery assets
If each of these is not identified, planned, resourced, and rehearsed, the

successful accomplishment of that essential fire support task is at risk.
Other Key FS considerations:

Position observers with redundancy where they can see their assigned
targets and trigger points, communicate with FS assets, and respond to
the maneuver commander
Disseminate target priorities to the lowest levels of the maneuver force,
FS staff, and mortars
Limit the number of targets to ten per maneuver Task Force
Do not physically separate FISTs from the companies they support
For each phase or time period of the operation the FSO should, as a
minimum:
Verify grid locations for all critical targets
Verify engagement criteria
Confirm primary and backup observers for each target
Verify primary and backup communications links for each observer
Verify that each target has a task and purpose (what effects are to be
achieved)
Verify the method of engagement (at my command, time on target, or
when ready)
Verify that attack guidance, such as shell-fuse combination, number of
volleys, and unit(s) to fire, is specified for each target
Verify the movement plan, specifying when and where units and
observers will move

Keep it simple (not more than ten TF Targets); memorize priority targets.
Plan on an eight-minute shift times between priority targets.
Mass all artillery on three or four essential fire support targets rather than
pound sand everywhere on the battlefield. For defensive operations, probable
priority targets include likely penetrations points, anticipated enemy breach
sites, defiles/choke points, and behind the most likely inter-visibility line(s)
that the enemy will use for ABF / SBF positions.
For offensive operations, focus on destroying the platoon at the point of

penetration, effectively screening breach operations with smoke, and
suppress or obscure AT-5 or counterattack reserve force.
A fully developed essential fire support task has a task, purpose, method, and
effects.

NBC Planning Checklist
During IPB, determine:

Capabilities (agent type, munitions type, and delivery systems/means)
Previous use of NBC
Employment doctrine
Level of release authority (CAA, Division, Regimental, etc.)
Identify attack indicators:

Likely enemy timeline
Q-36 / 37 radar reports
Reports of artillery fired in vacant areas
Air defense early warning (for missiles and aircraft)
Movement forward of chemical munitions
Increase in enemy MOPP or training in MOPP
NBC Recon vehicles
Develop ISR plan to identify/detect PIR and HPTs
Enemy smoke assets and capabilities
Enemy decontamination unit locations/activities
Wind direction (periods of inversion gradient)
Prepare these products:

INTSUMs
SITTEMP with templated NBC strike areas
ISR plan (scouts, organic detection, M93 FOX, Q-36 / Q-37, etc.)
Masking criteria (based on METT-T)
MOPP level for operation
Event matrix / timeline
HPTs (goal is to neutralize delivery systems).
For the Maneuver BOS, determine:

Commander’s Intent – avoid contamination or fight through.
Vulnerability analysis (active / passive protective measures)
Bypass criteria (based on wind direction and scheme of maneuver)
MOPP effects on fighting capabilities
Task organization of NBC assets (consider organic and supporting)
Smoke employment and observer plan. (See Smoke Operations Planning
Checklist in this section)
Identify stay behind elements to mark contaminated areas

For the Fire Support BOS, determine:

Counter-fire plan
Use of indirect smoke and synchronization
Generator smoke
Observer plan
For the Mobility / Counter-mobility / Survivability BOS, determine:

Assume templated strike areas will be contaminated (MOPP)
Area damage control to limit the spread of contamination
Engineer support to dig decontamination sumps
MPs to conduct area damage control
For the Air Defense, determine:

Provide early warning for missile/aircraft attacks
Provide air defense coverage for decontamination operations
For the CSS BOS determine:

Primary and alternate contaminated (“dirty”) MSRs
Water re-supply plan for decontamination (local vs. haul)
Re-supply for MOPP gear, canisters, and decontaminants
Contaminated casualty collection plan
Patient decontamination and medical support
Decontamination sites, routes, and link-up points
Priority for decontamination
Support relationship for NBC assets (FOX, Smoke, Decontamination)
Fog oil re-supply
For the Command and Control BOS determine:

Task organization / control of NBC assets (FOX, Smoke,
Decontamination)
Frequencies and call signs
NBCWRS
Triggers for smoke
Command post reaction plan
Area damage control
Decontamination site OIC
Review in unit rock drills and rehearse the following:

React to chemical attack
NBCWRS
NBC detection teams
FOX employment
Smoke employment

Triggers
Observation plan
Communication plan
Decontamination plan
First aid / casualty collection plan
Re-supply plan
Weather Conditions and NBC
WEATHER FAVORABLE MARGINAL UNFAVORABLE

Wind Speed 15-32 Km/hr 9-15 Km/hr <9 or >32 Km/hr
Stability Stable Neutral Lapse
o o o o o o
Temperature 1 to 20 C < 0 , 21 to 29 C >30 C
Humidity <40% 40% to 60% >60%
Precipitation None to Very Light Light Moderate to Heavy
Smoke Operations Planning Checklist
At times a Task Force may have a mechanized smoke platoon and one dual-
purpose platoon. These platoons should be kept intact and not split into
squads. Assignment of smoke support within the TF is dependent on the
mission and forces employed. Units must coordinate with adjacent units for
cross boundary smoke effects.
Smoke Platoon Capabilities

The mechanized smoke platoon has seven (7) M58 Wolfs and a support
squad. They will use six (6) of the tracks on the smoke line and one as a
smoke control point and substitute system if one goes down. The dual-
purpose platoon has six (6) M56 Coyotes and a support squad. The platoon
leader has a M998 that is used as the smoke control point and uses six (6)
wheeled smoke vehicles on the smoke line. A smoke platoon can provide
following coverage:
M58 Smoke Generator System – ninety minutes of visual / near infrared
obscurant and thirty minutes of infrared obscurant without resupply
M56 Smoke Generator System - ninety minutes of visual / near infrared
obscurant and thirty minutes of infrared obscurant without resupply

Smoke Uses
Offensive Operations:
Obscure enemy reconnaissance efforts
Conceal river crossings
Conceal breaching operations
Isolate enemy forces
Defeat enemy electro-optical systems
Deception
Defensive Operations:
Obscure enemy reconnaissance efforts
Conceal obstacle emplacement
Canalize enemy forces
Isolate enemy forces
Defeat enemy electro-optical systems
Deception
Conceal movement of disengaging forces
Smoke Platoon Logistics

Fog Oil. Each vehicle has a 120-gallon fog oil tank, sufficient for two hours
of smoke. The platoon has one TPU carrying 1,200-gallons of fog oil. The
platoon can produce 4 hours of smoke with organic fog oil before resupply
required.
Graphite. Each vehicle carries three hundred pounds of pelletized graphite,

sufficient for thirty minutes of IR obscuration. The platoon LMTV can carry
five thousand pounds of pelletized graphite. The platoon, assuming fully
loaded with graphite, can produce two hours of IR obscuration with organic
supplies.

Air Defense Planning Checklist
Air Defense Artillery protects the TF and selected assets from aerial attack
and surveillance. The primary aerial threats that must be countered by Short
Range AD (SHORAD) employment guidelines are UAVs, rotary-wing
aircraft, and fixed-wing aircraft. A task force is typically supported by a
Linebacker platoon, consisting of four firing units and a C2 vehicle. The
platoon is organized into a headquarters section and two maneuver sections.
The Linebacker platoon is most commonly in a general support role under

TF control. This provides the ADA platoon leader the ability to position or
mass ADA assets at the critical times and places on the battlefield to defeat
the air threat. Additional air defense assets like Stinger teams and Avenger
firing units can also support the task force.
Linebacker firing units should be positioned along the most likely air
avenues of approach to support the Commander’s main effort and also
positioned in depth so that they can provide continuous fires along enemy air
avenues.
Linebackers normally accompany the main effort of the task force or may be
positioned with the task force reserve in the defense. Other likely points of
protection include breach sites and passage lanes, ROM sites, and guarding
likely PZs during limited visibility periods.
The task force and air defense firing units broadcast flash precedence “FM
voice” early warning to maneuver elements on the TF Command net.
The ADA LNO and his driver position themselves with the TF CP full time.
The Linebacker platoon leader rotates his time between the TF Main CP and
his platoon. He is actively involved in the planning process for each TF
mission.
The ADA LNO in the TF CP monitors four nets: Division Early Warning;
the TF command net; the ADA battery net; and the Linebacker platoon net.

Engineer Operations Planning Checklist
Engineer Considerations (Defense). Note: Ensure war game is against

enemy SITTEMP including all known / templated enemy obstacles.
Before the war game:

State priority of effort & support
Task Organization in effect, organize breach assets
Dig in critical assets in TAA: FA / LOG / C2 / static assets
Coordinate obstacles / routes with passed (FPOL) units
Engineers with scouts / recon elements to obtain OBSTINTEL, update
template based on spot reports, disseminate template to sub-units
Work with the S2 / S3 to select breach sites based on analysis of
engineer situation SPOT Reports
Engineers forward in formations
CL IV / V through-put plan coordinated and finalized; who guides?
Coordinate for Chemical Decontamination Site locations / blade support
FASCAM planned to cover flanks & isolate objectives.
During the war game:

Pump higher & adjacent Engineers for obstacle information, disseminate
to sub-units
Mark lanes & bypasses, guides required
SOSR during breaches, CFZs on breach sites
No. of breach assets required / expended at each breach
Support assault on the objective
Do follow-on TFs conduct own breach or widen lanes?
Close up through-put
Dig in Q36 radar
During Transition:
Reorganize assets, task organization change required
Reconstitute assets
Establish Class IV / V points
Dig in Q36, FA, C2, ADA, Log
FASCAM to facilitate transition to defense.

Engineer Considerations (Offense): Note: Ensure use of obstacle overlay

with BELTS & INTENTS.
State priority of effort & support
Survivability plan (timeline, # of blades or Position / BP)
Obstacle plan (timeline, KM of minefield & wire / belt)
Allocation of Volcano systems & reloads
Percent planned Survivability & Obstacles completed at time of enemy
contact
Should Engineers or blades be in DS relationship
FASCAM
Purpose of situational obstacles (separate echelons, re-seed breaches,
disrupt formations, support security zone fight)
Reinforce or replace conventional obstacles
Designate primary & alternate lookers, shooter, trigger
Preplan & request release early, rehearse Volcano movement
Anticipate reload / recycle times
Incorporate enemy obstacles in friendly defense plan?
Cover obstacles with direct & indirect fires
CL IV / V through-put and guide plan:
FSP locations
Lane closure plan and mobility of the reserve
C2 of Engineer assets (especially Volcano)
Engineer disengagement criteria; where do they go during close battle

REPORTS
A key requirement during the planning process is knowledge of the various
reports that will be required internal to the battalion and external to higher,
adjacent, and subordinate elements. Following are fifty-four (54) examples
of reports and formats the battalion may need to use. They are organized as
follows:
Operations Reports
Operations Report (OPREP)
SALT / SPOT Report
Serious Incident Report (SIR)
Contact Report
Situation Report (SITREP)
Combat Slant Report (Long and Short)
Closure Report
Airspace Control Means Request (ACMREQ)
Downed / Missing Aircraft Report
NBC Reports
Request for NBC / Smoke Support
NBC 1 Report (Initial Observer Report)
NBC 2 Report (Evaluated Data Report)
NBC 3 Report (Immediate Warning of Expected Contamination)
NBC 4 Report (Report of Radiation Dose Rate Measurement)
NBC 5 Report (Report of Areas of Contamination)
NBC 6 Report (Detailed Contamination Report)
CHEMWARN Report
Effective Downwind Message Report
NBC Situation Report (NBC SITREP)
Engineer Reports
Scatterable Minefield Warning Report (SCATMINWARN)
Scatterable Minefield Report and Record (SCATMINREP)
Obstacle Turnover / Transfer Report
Report for Bridge, Overpass, Culvert, Underpass or Tunnel
(BRIDGEREP)
Report of Ford, Ferry, or Other Crossing Site (CROSSREP)
Obstacle Report
Obstacle Request, Intent or Status Report
Route Reconnaissance Report (ROUTEREP)
Closure Report
Bypass Report

Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) Report
Intelligence Reports
Sensitive Item Report
Battle Damage Assessment Report (BDAREP)
Detained Civilian Personnel Report (DETAINCIVREP)
R&S Report
Weather Forecast
Weather Advisory
Request for Information (RFI)
Response to Request for Information (RRFI)
Intelligence Summary (INTSUM)
Patrol Report
EPW / Captured Material Report
SAEDA Report
SALUTE A Report
Debrief Format
Personnel Reports
Personnel Status Report (PERSTAT)
Personnel SPOT Report
Casualty Report
MEDEVAC Request
Medical Situation Report (MEDSITREP)
Casualty Feeder Report
Logistics Reports
Logistics Status Report (LOGSTAT)
Battle Loss Report
AMMO Status / Request
POL Status / Request

Operations Reports
Operations Report (OPREP)
The OPREP outlines the relative combat power of each Task Force unit.
Place color code (green / amber / red / black) in items 1-5. Green = 100-
80%, Amber = 79-60%, Red = 59-40%, and Black = 39-0%. Add %
complete for item #5. Put number of mission capable / number authorized in
items 6-28.
Format
Line / Item / Quantity
Sample OPREP
OPERATIONS REPORT (OPREP) DUE 0530 & 1400

REPORT LINES 1-6 BY COLOR (GREEN=100-80%, YELLOW=79-
60% RED=59-40%, BLACK=39-0%
1 MOBILITY 36 BAYONET
2 COMMUNICATIONS 37 JAVELIN
3 WEAPONS 38 M203 (INCL M4/M16)
4 PERSONNEL 39 M4
5 FORCE PROTECTION 40 M9 PISTOL
6 OVERALL 41 M24
7 RIFLE SQUADS 42 M249 SAW
8 M60 MG 43 SHOTGUN
9 M240 MG 44 AIMING CIRCLE
10 M2 MG 45 MBC
11 MK-19 46 60mm BORESIGHT
12 TOW 47 81mm BORESIGHT
13 60mm MORTAR 48 AN/PAQ-4
14 81mm MORTAR 49 PEO-2
15 105mm HOWITZER 50 AN/PVS-4
16 155mm HOWITZER 51 AN/PVS-7B
17 Q36 RADAR 52 AN/PVS-7D
18 TLQ17 53 AN/PVS-14
19 AVENGER 54 AN/PVS-10
20 STINGER 55 M68 AIM POINT SIGHT
21 LSIDS 56 GCP-1B
22 OH-58 57 PVS-6 MELIOS
23 AH-64 58 MK-II RANGEFINDER
24 CH-47 59 BINOCULARS
25 UH-60 60 TOW NIGHTSIGHT
26 EH-60 61 TOW DAYSIGHT
27 DRAGON 62 AN/TAS-5
28 AT4 63 M8 ALARM
29 M2/M3 BFV 64 CHEM AGENT MONITOR
30 M1 TANK 65 PRO MASKS
31 DOZER 66 IM-93 RADICMETER
32 SEE 67 MINE DETECTOR
33 LLVI 68 MOPEMS RCU
34 REMBASS 69 VRC-88 (SR)(O)
35 TLQ-32 70 VRC-89 (SR/LR)
71 VRC-90 (LR)
V1 CARGO HMMWV 72 VRC-91 (SR/LR)(O)
V2 COMMAND HMMWV 73 VRC-92 (LR/LR)
V3 TOW HMMWV 74 PRC-104
V4 FMTV 75 PRC-119
V5 TPU 76 PRC-126
V6 FLA 77 AN/VRC 213
V7 WRECKER 78 ANCD
V8 TRAILER 79 KYK-13
80 RT-1539 (MSRT RADIO)
M1 MILES KEVLAR HALO 81 KY-68 (MSRT PHONE)
M2 MILES TORSO HARNESS 82 TA-1035 (MSE PHONE)
M3 MILES M4 TRANSMITTER 83 TA-1
M4 MILES M249 TRANSMITTER 84 TA-312
M5 MILES M60/240 TRANSMITTER 85 PSN-11 (PLGR)
M6 MILES M2 TRANSMITTER 86 M2 COMPASS
M7 MILES TOW SYSTEM 87
M8 MILES MITS KIT 88
M9 MILES DRAGON 89
M10 MILES VIPER 90
COMMAND POST LOCATION REPORT AS OF (DTG)

LEFT TRACE GRID LOCATION
RIGHT TRACE GRID LOCATION

SALT / SPOT Report (SPOTREP)
Purpose
Provide and disseminate information on enemy activity and contact.
Instructions
FBCB2 is the primary method in order to establish SU visibility across the
network. FM is the alternate method. In many cases, an FM report should
occur first followed by a digital report. Units in contact will report the
enemy via FM to the company CP, XO or 1SG who will enter the digital
report.
Format
Size. Give number and type of assets observed. Be as specific as possible, using
individual systems.
Activity. Specific actions of enemy force observed. Include orientation, movement
direction, speed and as much information on their actions as possible.
Location. Grid of enemy activity observed. Use 6-digit grids whenever possible.
Avoid generic descriptive names for landmarks.
Time. Time of enemy activity; not the time of message if significantly different.
Your Actions. What actions are you taking at the time you submit the report.
FBCB2 Report
The FBCB2 SALT Report is selected from the Combat Messages. Fill in the
mandatory fields using the drop down menus. Users with LRF can LASE
the enemy and auto fill the location. Those without LRF should use the auto
fill capability by selecting the location on the FBCB2 map.
The grid may also be typed in (include grid zone designator).

Sample SALT / SPOTREP (FBCB2)
Do not delete from the default address group, additions may be made.
Ensure that the BDE S2 or TF S2 ASAS is included in the action addressees.
The Long form of the message may be used for providing additional
information or for creating a Position Report for a friendly element (see Card
214.9).
If the CFF MSG button is used, the only options will be immediate
suppression or immediate smoke. The user must be in the AFATDS
observer role database, and the supporting FSE AFATDS must be in the
address group.

Serious Incident Report (SIR)
From: CDR, X
To: CDR, X
Subject: Serious Incident Report, Number XXXXXXX
Category
Type of Incident:
Date / Time:
Location:
Other Information
Training related:
Firing incident
Personnel Involved:
Name
Rank or Grade
Social Security Number
Race
Sex
Age
Position:
Security Clearance: Y or N
Unit; Station of Assignment
Duty Status
Summary of Incident:
Commander Reporting
Point of Contact;
Downgrading Instructions
Report Originated by
Report Released By
Notification:
Position
Name
Time
Category of Incidents
Category 1:
Fratricide
Riots, serious disturbances
War crimes
Soldiers requesting asylum
Terrorist activities
Bomb or explosion incident
Threats against weapons / ammunition
Category 2:
Loss / theft of sensitive items
Narcotics / drugs
Theft / loss of ammunition, armament, or explosives

Death of any soldier in BCT

Major fires
Serious training / movement accident
Category 3:
Serious injury of any BCT soldier
Training / firing incident
Compromise of operational codes
Notification of death of family member
TF commanders will notify BCT commander on the BCT Command net.
This report is sent by MCS or FBCB2 (free text) followed by a hardcopy to

the BCT TOC).

Contact Report
When initial contact is made, an FM contact report will be submitted via

FM unless otherwise specified, followed immediately by an FBCB2
SPOTREP.
Format
Call sign
Contact
Form of contact (observed, obstacle, direct fire, NBC, etc.)
Cardinal Direction or grid reference
Out
Example: “Saber 1 this is Saber 2, Contact, Obstacle #, East, Out.”

Situation Report (SITREP)
Purpose
Provides update on unit status, activities, and problems.
Instructions
Battalions submit via MCS, MSE or FM (in priority). Separate companies
submit via FBCB2 SITREP or Free Text Message following the format
below modified to fit their unit. Provide unit locations only if friendly force
SU feed is not functioning at the command post. Individual platforms send
SITREP to PL / PSG who consolidate and forward to 1SG / XO /
Commander / CP. Reports are due NLT 0545 or at Stand-to as specified and
at 1630. Mid-day and night reports are not required unless directed. Reports
are due to TF at 0500, 1100, 1700, and 2300. Reports from TF are due to
BDE Main CP at 0600, 1200, 1800, and 2400 daily.
For lines 5-9, companies submit platoon locations / status; Line 10 is

company status.
Format
Line 1: Unit:
Line 2: Main CP Location: (6- digit grid)
Line 3: Obstacle / defensive prep status (% complete)
Line 4: Scout / IEW OP locations
Line 5: _______ Co/Tm: ____ / ____ / __________ M1 M2 (6-digit grid)
Line 6: _______ Co/Tm: ____ / ____ / __________M1 M2 (6-digit grid)
Line 9: _______ Co/Tm: ____ / ____ / __________M1 M2 (6-digit grid
Line 10: TF : / / / M1 M2 M3 Mortar SCT)
Line 11: CLIII Assessment: (*GREEN, AMBER, RED, BLACK)
Line 12: CLV Assessment: (*GREEN, AMBER, RED, BLACK)
Line 13: Personnel Assessment: (*GREEN, AMBER, RED, BLACK) *GREEN (80+%) -
AMBER (60-79%) - RED (40-59%) BLACK (39% or less)
Line 14: Overall Assessment: GREEN: Fully mission capable AMBER: Status has minor
impact RED: Status has major impact BLACK: Cannot accomplish mission
Line 15 (remarks): give reason for any line 14 rating other than green. "paint the picture" of the
unit, from east to west or north to south.
FBCB2 Report
Company / troop and smaller elements reporting to brigade / task force
should submit the SITREP using FBCB2. The report should be
accompanied by comments to elaborate on the basic status information
provided in the report format and to paint the picture of the unit and actions
on-going and projected.

The Self Tab reports data for own platform. The Unit Tab has option for
‘Platforms’ (those in the reporting unit), and ‘Units’ for the status of the
immediately subordinate units (for a company / troop it would be for the
subordinate platoons).
Any element in the unit can submit the report.
Sample SITREP (FBCB2)

Combat Slant Report
This report states the number of primary combat vehicles the unit has that
are both operational and under the control of the unit. If a vehicle is non-
mission capable, it is not counted in this report.
The CO Commander or CO XO sends a Short Slant each time he calls the

TF Commander during the fight. The CO XO sends the Long Slant Report
to the TF TOC every hour on the hour during a battle.
Short Slant Report

Maneuver Commander
M1A2 / M2A2
Engineer Commander
M113 / VOLCANO / AVLM / AVLB
Long Slant Report

M1A2 / M2A2
M981 FIST-V
LINEBACKERS
AVENGERS
M113 / VOLCANO / AVLM / AVLB
ACES
DOZERS
INFANTRY SQUADS
SAPPER SQUADS

Closure Report
Purpose
Reports unit movement status and capability of units to conduct future
operations.
Instructions
Submit using FBCB2 Free Text message as primary with FM as alternate.
Battalions may submit Closure Reports using MCS or MSE as alternate.
Submit report to TF / BDE Main with info addresses TF / BDE TAC, BDE
ALOC, BDE CDR / CSM / S3. Garrison reports may be submitted by
telephone.
Submit initial report via FM including unit and CP location upon closure of
TOC. Submit final report upon completion of movement of the main body,
or at a designated time, to the TF / BDE MAIN CP (field) or brigade
SDNCO (garrison). The closure report is a status report and units need not
be 100% to submit. A final report, however, is required once the unit is
100% complete (NLT arrival + 2 hours). For prolonged or complex
movements (combination of transport modes), submit report every two hours
or as directed by brigade.
Format
SP date / time.
RP date / time.
CP location (6-digit grid).
Closure date / time.
Accidents / incidents.
Estimated time unit ready to conduct operations.
Weapons / sensitive items inventory complete (YES / NO).

Airspace Control Means Request (ACMREQ)
Report Number
A025 (USMTF # F658)
Instructions
Use To Request That A Specific Airspace Control Means Be Specified In A
Future Airspace Control Order.
Reference FM 100-103
Format
LINE 1 – DATE AND TIME (DTG)
LINE 2 – UNIT (Unit Making Report)
LINE 3 – REQUESTING UNIT (Name of Unit or Agency Requesting Airspace)
LINE 4 – TYPE (Type of Airspace)
LINE 5 – AIRSPACE (Name of Airspace)
LINE 6 – PURPOSE (Purpose of Special Use Airspace)
LINE 7 – TRANSIT (Transit Instructions)
LINE 8 – FROM (DTG to be Established)
LINE 9 – UNTIL (DTG to be Dis-established)
LINE 10 – AREA (Description of the Area to be Defined (Boundary or Circle))
LINE 11 – COORDINATES (UTM or 6-Digit Grid Coordinate with MGRS Grid Zone
Designator)
LINE 12 – WIDTH / RADIUS (Width or Radius)
LINE 13 – LOWER (Lower Altitude of Designated Area to Nearest 100 Feet or Ground Level)
LINE 14 – UPPER (Upper Altitude of Designated Area to Nearest 100 Feet)
LINE 15 – CONTACT (Call Sign of Control Agency)
LINE 16 – PRIMARY (Primary Frequency or Frequency Designator)
LINE 17 – SECONDARY (Secondary Frequency or Frequency Designator)
LINE 18 – NARRATIVE (Free Text for Additional Information Required for Clarification of
Report)
LINE 19 – AUTHENTICATION (Report Authentication)

Downed / Missing Aircraft Report
Purpose
To report downed or missing friendly aircraft.
Instructions
Submit initial report to TF / BDE Main using FM on TF / BDE CMD net.
Report to higher on DIV CMD net and to DIV G3 OPS via MSE. Submit
follow-up reports to BDE Main via FM, MCS, FBCB2 (Free Text message)
or FM.
Format
Type of Aircraft (describe A/C if type unknown) (e.g., “H-60 Blackhawk”)
A/C Call sign or Tail Number if known (any markings if unknown) (e.g., “Shark 23”)
Grid location and / or nearest landmark or graphic control measure (e.g., “14RPV 654 765, LZ
Silver”)
Time of downing if known (e.g., “0655 Zulu”)
Number / status of survivors and their last action if known (include last known radio frequency)
(e.g., “Two crewmen seen exiting and moving south into tree line”)
Status of A/C (e.g., “Aircraft on fire” or “Aircraft intact, damage to rotors”)
Cause of downing if known (include anti-aircraft weapon type if shot down) (e.g., “Shot down
by small arms” or “rotor blades struck tress”)
Enemy / Threat / NBC in vicinity of aircraft if known (e.g., “2 Enemy soldiers seen searching
aircraft”)
Friendly forces in vicinity of A/C and actions if known (e.g., “Scout 42 moving to secure crash
site”)

NBC Reports
Request for NBC / Smoke Support
Format
Requesting Unit ID
Type of support requested: (Note 1)
FM Net and VINSON key for coordination / contact: (Note 2)
Location of mission: (6-digit grid)
Location of contact point: (Notes 3 and 6)
Type of mission being supported: (Note 4)
Amount of support requested: (Note 5)
Mission start DTG: (Note 6)
Mission end DTG: (Note 6)
Point of contact in unit
Remarks
Decontamination, NBC reconnaissance, smoke, flame field expedient,

indicate which. What size unit (s) needs NBC support; i.e., one armor
company (# tanks, vehicles, etc.) needs thorough equipment
decontamination.
BB CMD, BDE O/I, BDE A/L, CO CMD, etc. indicate which net and secure
key in the SOI is to be used for coordination and / or contact.
Location and time where supporting unit is to meet supported unit. This
location should be for initial contact and detailed coordination / planning.
Mission of the supported unit: offense, defense, mobility, breaching, river

crossing, reorganization, etc.
Supported MSC: number and types of vehicles / aircraft number of

personnel. For terrain / road decontamination provide kilometers / meters of
contamination.
Smoke Mission: Type of smoke requested (deception, screening, obscuring)

if screening, indicate curtain, haze, or blanket. Dimensions of area to be
covered in hundreds of meters.
NBC Reconnaissance: Type of hazard, nuclear, biological, or chemical

(state which); type of reconnaissance: area or route; method: ground or air;
start and end points of route or corners of area to search (6-digit grid).
Indicate if times are actual or estimated.

NBC 1 Report (Initial Observer Report)
Purpose
Reports observation or detection of a nuclear, biological or chemical attack.
Instructions
Submitted by the fastest means available. Initial reports should be by FM
and immediately followed by an FBCB2 NBC1 report to create a geo-
reference icon on the network. DO NOT DELAY SENDING THE
REPORT in an effort to make it complete. Send what you have
immediately. Always initiate with “NBC 1 Report” and state what kind –
Nuclear, Biological or Chemical.
Omit information that is not applicable or available. Items that must always
be included are type of report, lines D and H, and one of the following: B,
C, F, or G. Ensure TF / BDE Main and TF / BDE CHEMO are included in
addressees. TF / BDE Chemical forward report to higher, adjacent and
subordinate units by fastest means available, following with MCS report.
Format
ALPHA: Strike serial number (if known).
BRAVO: Position of observer (UTM coordinates or name of place).
CHARLIE: Grid or magnetic bearing (specify which is used) or azimuth of attack from
observer (in degrees or mils; specify which is used).
DELTA: DTG attack started (ZULU).
ECHO: Illumination time in seconds (for nuclear burst); time the attack ended (toxic agent
attack only).
FOXTROT: Location of attack (UTM coordinates) and / or vicinity of attack (actual or
estimated; specify which is given).
GOLF: Means of delivery (if known).
HOTEL: Type of burst (air, surface, unknown), type of toxic agent, or type of attack.
INDIA: Number of shells; other data (for toxic attack only).
JULIET: Flash-to-bang time (in seconds).
KILO: Crater present or absent; diameter in meters (if known).
LIMA: Cloud width (degrees or mils; specify which) five minutes after burst.
MIKE: Cloud height (top or bottom; specify which) ten minutes after burst (degrees or mils;
specify which).
SIERRA: DTG of reading (local or ZULU time).
Note: Carefully specify the units of measure used (degrees, mils, or grid
azimuth).
FBCB2 Report
Select the NBC 1 Report from the Combat Messages Box using the
NBC 1 tab. Use the drop down menus to fill in the type of attack and
the delivery means (if known).
Fill in the attack locations by either typing in the grid location
(including grid zone designator), using the Map option and clicking the

cursor on the location of the attack on the map display, or using the LRF
fill if platform is capable.
Use the Long Form message for providing additional information.
The report will create a geo-referenced contamination icon network
wide.
Ensure the TF / BDE Main (S3 and Chemical), TF / BDE TAC and Rear
CPs are included in the action addressees.
Sample NBC 1 Report (FBCB2)

NBC 2 Report (Evaluated Data Report)
Sample NBC 2 Report

NBC 3 Report (Immediate Warning of Expected Contamination)
Purpose
Provides warning of expected NBC contamination.
Instructions
Normally initiated by BDE or higher. Disseminate via FM, FBCB2 and
MCS to ensure all units alerted.
Always initiate with “NBC 3 Report” and state what kind – Nuclear,
Biological or Chemical.
Format
ALPHA: Strike serial number (if known).
DELTA: DTG when attack started.
FOXTROT: Location of attack (actual or estimated; specify which).
PAPA: Area of expected contamination.
YANKEE: Bearing or azimuth of left, then right radial lines (specify degrees or mils; use four
digits for each line).
ZULU: Effective downwind speed (in Km-PH; use three digits), downwind effective distance
of Zone 1 (in km; use three digits), and cloud radius (in km; use two digits).
FBCB2 Report
The NBC 3 report is usually disseminated from brigade or higher echelon.
The message subtype (nuclear or chemical / biological) must be filled out
along with Strike Serial #, Attack Time, Attack Location, and Wind data.
Report must be disseminated unit wide.

NBC 4 Report (Report of Radiation Dose Rate Measurement)
Purpose
Reports detection and monitoring of radiation.
Instructions
Submit initial report when radiation initially detected and routinely thereafter
as defined in OPORD. State “NBC 4” at the start of FM reporting. Submit
initial report via FBCB2 with an FM alert to higher headquarters, ensuring
all TF / BDE command posts and TF / BDE Chemo are included in
addressees. BDE Chemo disseminates to higher, adjacent and subordinate
units via MCS and / or MSE.
Format
QUEBEC: Location of reading; use friendly graphics or encryption. Omit this line when
transmitting on a wire net.
ROMEO: Dose rate in cGy / hr (average total dose rounded to the nearest ten cGy). Specify
whether the dose rate is "INITIAL," "INCREASING," "PEAK," or "DECREASING;" specify
"SHIELDED" if the dose rate was measured inside a vehicle.
SIERRA: DTG of reading. Specify the time zone.
Note. Repeat lines Q, R, and S as often as necessary. Radiation dose rates

ideally are measured in the open, one meter above the ground; if the rate
must be measured in a shielded location, it is converted (as accurately as
possible) to a rate in the open.
FBCB2 Report
The message subtype (nuclear or bio / chemical survey), type event and
attack analysis data must be completed along with reading location and
results. Strike Serial # is filled if known.

NBC 5 Report (Report of Areas of Contamination)
Purpose
Reports areas of contamination.
Instructions
Submit initial report when radiation initially detected and routinely thereafter
as defined in OPORD. State “NBC 5” at the start of FM reporting.
Submit initial report via FBCB2 Free Text message with an overlay of the
contaminated area. Send an FM alert to higher headquarters, and ensure all
TF / BDE command posts and TF / BDE Chemo are included in addressees.
BDE CHEMO disseminates to higher, adjacent and subordinate units via
MCS and / or MSE.
Format
ALPHA: Strike serial number, if known.
OSCAR: Reference DTG for estimated contours of contaminated areas.
SIERRA: DTG when contamination was initially detected.
TANGO: H+1 DTG or DTG of latest reconnaissance of contamination in the area.
UNIFORM: Coordinates of contour lines marking dose rate of one thousand (1,000) cGy/hr.
VICTOR: Coordinates of contour lines marking dose rate of three hundred (300) cGy/hr.
WHISKEY: Coordinates of contour lines marking dose rate of one hundred (100) cGy/hr.
X-RAY: Coordinates of contour lines marking dose rate of twenty (20) cGy/hr.

NBC 6 Report (Detailed Contamination Report)
Sample NBC 6 Report

CHEMWARN Report
Sample CHEMWARN Report

Effective Downwind Message Report
Sample Effective Downwind Message Report

NBC Situation Report (NBC SITREP)
Due to Battalion NLT 1630 hours daily with an as-of time of 1600 hours by
all subordinate units.
1. DTG / Unit
2. Enemy NBC Activity: (briefly state, i.e., “Enemy has increased protection
or tempo of NBC attacks, employing SCUDS, FROGS, MRL and tube
artillery assets.”
3. Enemy NBC Attacks: (DTG of attack, location, unit attacked, agent used,
delivery system, NBC casualties).
4. Critical NBC Equipment and Supply Shortfalls.
5. Proposed Thorough Decontamination Sites: (Number decontamination

sites, number plus A or B for link-up points.
6. Assessment: (i.e., impact of enemy NBC attacks on operations based on

analysis by S2, S3, and CHEMO).
7. Protection: Include level of MOPP in BN / CO and any additional

measures of protection taken (i.e. M9 paper, M8A1 alarms, buttoned up,
etc.).
8. Radiation Exposure Status (RES): RES Category of each battalion and

separate company.

Engineer Reports
Scatterable Minefield Warning Report (SCATMINWARN)
Purpose
Sent on BN CMD net one hour prior to emplacement.
Format
Line A: EMPLACING SYSTEM:
Line B: AT: YES / NO
Line C: AP: YES / NO
Line D: # AIM POINTS/CORNER POINTS:
Line E: GRID COORDINATES OF AIM POINTS / CORNER POINTS AND SIZE OF
SAFETY ZONE:
Line F: DTG OF SELF-DESTRUCT PERIOD

Scatterable Minefield Report and Record (SCATMINREP)
Format
Line 1: APPROVING AUTHORITY:
Line 2: TGT OBSTACLE NUMBER:
Line 3: TYPE EMPLACING SYSTEM:
Line 4: TYPE MINES:
Line 5: SELF-DESTRUCT PERIOD:
Line 6: AIM POINTS / CORNER POINTS OF MINEFIELD:
Line 7: _____________________________________
Line 8: _____________________________________
Line 9: _____________________________________
Line 10: ____________________________________
Line 11-14: __________________________________
Line 15: SIZE OF SAFETY ZONE FROM AIM POINT:
Line 16: UNIT EMPLACING MINES / RPT #:
Line 17: PERSON COMPLETING REPORT:
Line 18: DTG OF REPORT:
Line 19: REMARKS:

Obstacle Turnover / Transfer Report
Sample Obstacle Turnover / Transfer
OBSTACLE-TURNOVER/TRANSFER REPORT
OBSTACLE DATA
Obstacle Number Obstacle Type Emplacing Authority
Obstacle Location (8-digit Obstacle Effect Emplacing Unit

UTM
Grid to center of mass)
TURNOVER DATA
Transferring Unit Receiving Unit Date/Time of Transfer
Next Higher Command Common to Both Date Obstacle Emplaced
TURNOVER CHECKLIST
Intelligence.
• Enemy activity forward of the obstacle (discuss enemy recon and breaching efforts).
• Friendly activity in the vicinity of the obstacle (discuss LOGPAC, recon, counter-recon maneuver).
Maneuver.
• Obstacle protection against enemy recon/breaching (discuss overwatch, counter-recon patrols,
sunrise sweep).
• Location of TRPs and indirect-fire targets (point out location on graphics and terrain).
• Rearward/forward passage of lines (discuss planned and routine activity around the obstacle).
Mobility/Survivability
• Obstacle trace (discuss corner grids on map and point them out on terrain).
• Obstacle marking (rear side, all four sides, fence, signs, HEMMS poles, or no marking).
• Obstacle composition.
• Location of gaps/lanes.
• Method of closing gaps/lanes (MOPMS, ADAM, RAAM, conventional mines).
• Location of material to close gaps/lanes.
CSS. Planned casualty evacuation and supply routes in the vicinity of the obstacle.
C²
• DA Form 1355 or 1355-R, dated __________, transferred to receiving unit.
• Obstacle overlay, dated ___________, transferred to receiving unit.
• Target folder, dated _________, preparing headquarters ____________, transferred to receiving uni
• Higher headquarters (transferring, receiving, and emplacing units) notified of transfer.
• DA Form 1355 or 1355-R forwarded. (NOTE: Three copies are required for transfer – one to
transferring unit, one to receiving unit, and one to next higher headquarters common to both.
CERTIFICATION
The undersigned certify that the receiving unit has assumed full responsibility for the obstacle indicated above.
The unit commander understands all the information related to the obstacle, the obstacle intent, and his
responsibility to transfer or recover the obstacle upon his departure.
___________________________________
___________________________________
Signature of Transferring Unit Commander Signature of Receiving Unit
Commander __________________________________
___________________________________
Printed Name, Rank, and Date Printed Name, Rank, and
Date

Report for Bridge, Overpass, Culvert, Underpass, or Tunnel

(BRIDGEREP)
Purpose
To report nature and condition of bridge, overpass, culvert, underpass or
tunnel.
Instructions
Use FBCB2 Bridge Report as primary means of reporting. Since the
BRIDGEREP creates a network wide icon with an associated hook dialog
box with the text information from the message format, specific addressing
is not required. If specific comments are included in the report comment
box, only those to whom the message is addressed will receive those, so
include the unit leadership, CP and supporting engineers in the address
group. Submit FM reports to the next higher CP, unit leader or engineer as
appropriate.
Format
Type and location (for a long tunnel, include both entrance and exit locations).
Overall length.
Width of roadway.
Height restrictions.
Length and number of spans.
Computed classification.
Bypass locations and conditions. Use this report for disseminating bypass
information.
FBCB2 Report
The bridge report creates a geo-referenced icon network wide and can be
used for sending bridge data, but is also used for creating an icon for a lane
through an obstacle or an obstacle bypass. For creating a lane icon, the
message is filled as shown below, with no statement for bridge type, the start
and end points for the lane in the bridge beginning and end location fields,
and unknown for the controlling force field.

Sample BRIDGEREP (FBCB2)

Report for Ford, Ferry, or Other Crossing Site (CROSSREP)
Purpose
Reports nature and condition of ford, ferry or other crossing site.
Instructions
Utilize FBCB2 Free Text Message as primary means. Battalions may submit
using MCS or MSE. FM is least preferred method.
For all echelons, send report to next higher main CP and supporting
engineer. Include unit leaders as appropriate or directed.
Format
Type and location.
Length of crossing in meters.
Usable width.
Current speed in meters per second.
Maximum depth in meters.
Bottom material and condition.
Capacity classification of any existing ferry equipment.
Slope of entry bank.
Slope of exit bank.
Other comments as necessary.

Obstacle Report
Purpose
Reports obstacles encountered or constructed.
Instructions
Submit immediately when obstacle is observed or when obstacle
construction is initiated. Utilize FBCB2 Obstacle Report as primary means.
The network-wide icon has a hook dialog box with the formatted message
information. If special comments are included only those to whom the
message is addressed will receive the message with comments. In this case,
include those who need to read the comments (supporting engineer, S3
section or unit leaders). TF Engineer forward to BDE Engineer via FBCB2
or MCS; BDE Engineer forward to DIV and higher / adjacent units using
MCS (message and overlay as appropriate).
Format
Type of obstacle or obstruction.
Location, using grid coordinates. For large, complex obstacles, send the coordinates
of the ends and of all turn points.
Dimensions and orientation.
Composition.
Enemy weapons influencing obstacle.
Observer's actions.
Soil
FBCB2 Report
The obstacle report will create a geo-referenced icon network wide. It is
critical that the report be generated when an obstacle is initiated / completed,
or when an unreported obstacle is encountered. Utilize the drop down
menus to complete the report, ensuring that all corners/points of the obstacle
are entered in the location fields.

Sample Obstacle Report (FBCB2)

Obstacle Request, Intent or Status Report
Purpose
To request, report intention or status on all obstacles.
Instructions
Submitted by all assigned and attached units requesting or emplacing
obstacles in the BDE or TF AO. Submitted when requesting to emplace and
report intention to construct an obstacle. Also used to report the status of
obstacle emplacement (25%, 50%, 75%, 100%). Submitted to next higher
headquarters (and forwarded higher) by fastest means available. Within the
BDE, FBCB2 is the primary means followed by MCS and MSE. FM is the
least desired means. Use FBCB2 Obstacle Report to create geo-referenced
icon when beginning construction. Use free text format for requesting
obstacle emplacement.
Format
Line-Item-Example
1OBSTACLE CONTROL DESIGNATOR Ex: (I004-H14-MD01)
OBSTACLE LOCATION (GRID)
EFFECTIVE DATE/TIME DATA (DTG)
EMPLACING UNIT Ex: (1/A/299 EN BN)
IMPACT ON MOVEMENT Ex: (DISRUPT)
OBSTACLE TYPE Ex: (MINEFIELD)
OBSTACLE DIMENSIONS (Height, Depth, Width, Length)
MINEFIELD DATA (LAND SURFACE)
OBSTACLE STATUS (PLANNED / EXECUTED)
SAFE LANE LOCATION (GRID)
11ENEMY ACTIVITY Ex: (ATTACKING)
BYPASS POTENTIAL (EASY / DIFFICULT)
BY LOCATION (GRID)
OBSERVATION DTG
COMMENTS (REMARKS)
Request scatterable minefield (SCATMIN) using the following guidance:

Utilize FBCB2 Free Text message as the primary request method. Battalions
may submit using MCS or MSE. FM is least preferred method. Address
digital request to TF / BDE Main with INFO addressing to BDE TAC, ENG
BN TOC, BDE ALOC, FSB SPO, BDE Commander / CSM / S3, and higher
/ adjacent units.
Companies or special platoons requesting scatterable mine support submit to

next higher HQ.
Submit at least twelve hours prior to planned execution.

Format
Line-Item-Example
Approving Authority
Ex: BDE CDR
Target / Obstacle Number
Ex: I004-K1A-SM01
Type of emplacing system
Ex: MOPMS
Type of mines
Ex: AP / AT
Life Cycle
Ex: NET 270400MAY00
Ex: NLT 271000MAY00
Ex: 4HR
Aim Point
Ex: PV04586210 COM
Corner Point
Ex: Centerline SP*
Corner Point
Ex: Centerline EP*
Corner Point
Ex: Friendly Side SP**
Corner Point
Ex: Friendly Side EP**
Corner Point
Ex: Enemy Side SP**
Corner Point
Ex: Enemy Side EP**
Corner Point
Corner Point
Size of safety zone from aim point
Ex: 55 m Radius from COM***
Unit emplacing mines
Ex: EN SCT / 299 EN BN
Person completing report
Ex: 1LT DABE
DTG of report
Ex: 250300MAY00
Remarks
Ex: Trigger is FSE south at NAI 501
Notes:
COM (Center of Minefield
SP (Start Point)
EP (End Pt)
* Ground / Air Volcano, GATOR, and Flipper minefields only
** ADAM / RAAMS minefields only
*** See FM 20-32 for Safety Zones and use the longest distance as the
radius

Route Reconnaissance Report (ROUTEREP)
Purpose
Reports the results of a route reconnaissance.
Instructions
Submitted at the initiation and conclusion of reconnaissance. Appropriate
portions of report submitted when obstructions encountered or changes to
route required. Utilize FBCB2 Free Text Message as primary means.
Battalions may submit using MCS or MSE. FM is least preferred method.
Individual platforms or platoons submit PL / PSG, CO Commander / XO /
CP.
Submit at least twelve hours prior to planned execution.
Format
"From" location.
"To" location.
Type of route, report using the following designations:
Highway, report using the no. "1."
Road, number "2."
Trail, number "3."
Cross-country, number "4."
Classification of route. Check for height, width, and weight restrictions to determine the
appropriate class, and report what vehicles the route is capable of handling using the following
designations:
All squadron / battalion vehicles (70 class minimum), report using the number "1."
Tracked vehicles only, number "2."
BFVs (or smaller) only (35 class restriction), number "3."
Seasonal limitations of route based on weather-support capability, report as follows:
All-weather (usable year-round), report using the letter "X."
Limited all-weather (use limited during bad weather), letter "Y."
Fair weather (may be impassable during bad weather), letter "Z."
Rate of movement the route will support, report as follows:
Fast, report using the number "1."
Slow, number "2."
Location and type of any critical points (send the applicable report). Report the following
obstructions in all cases: curves with a radius of forty-five meters or less; uphill slopes with
grades of 5% or greater; width restrictions of six meters or less for one-way traffic, ten meters or
less for two-way traffic; and overhead clearance of 4.3 meters or less.

Closure Report
Purpose
Reports unit movement status and capability of units to conduct future
operations.
Instructions
Submit using FBCB2 Free Text message as primary with FM as alternate;
battalions may submit closure reports using MCS or MSE as alternate.
Submit report to TF / BDE Main with info addresses TF / BDE TAC, BDE
ALOC, BDE CDR / CSM / S3. Garrison reports may be submitted by
telephone.
Submit initial report via FM including Unit and CP location upon closure of
TOC. Submit final report upon completion of movement of the main body,
or at a designated time, to the TF / BDE MAIN CP (field) or brigade
SDNCO (garrison). The closure report is a status report and units need not
be 100% to submit. A final report, however, is required once the unit is
100% complete (NLT arrival + two hours). For prolonged or complex
movements (combination of transport modes), submit report every two hours
or as directed by brigade.
Format
Unit.
SP date / time.
RP date / time.
CP location (6-digit grid).
Closure date / time.
Accidents / incidents.
Estimated time unit ready to conduct operations.
Weapons / sensitive items inventory complete (YES / NO).

Bypass Report
Purpose
Reports an obstacle bypass route.
Instructions
Submitted immediately when obstacle bypass confirmed using FBCB2
BRIDGEREP. Utilize FBCB2 as primary means. FM is alternate method.
TF Engineer forward to BDE Engineer via FBCB2 or MCS; BDE Engineer
forward to DIV and higher / adjacent units using MCS (message and overlay
as appropriate).
Format
Observer or source.
Length; width; surface type; grade.
Coordinates of "from" / "to" locations.
Seasonal / weather limitations.
All-weather (usable year-round), reported using the letter "X."
Limited all-weather (use limited during bad weather), letter "Y."
Fair weather (may be impassable during bad weather), letter "Z."
Bypass markings.
Observer’s actions.

Sample Bypass Report
OBSTACLE-TURNOVER/TRANSFER REPORT
OBSTACLE DATA
Obstacle # Obstacle Type Emplacing Authority
Obstacle Location (8-digit grid) Obstacle Effect Emplacing Unit
TURNOVER DATA
Transferr ing Unit Receiving Unit Date/Time of Transfer
Next Higher Command Common to Both Date Obstacle Emplaced
TURNOVER CHECKLIST
1. Intelligence.
a. Enemy activity forw ard of the obstacle (discuss enemy recon, breaching efforts, direction of movement, expected time)
b. Friendly activity in the vicinity of the obstacle (discuss LOGPAC, recon, counterrecon, maneuver)
c. Critical aspects of terrain in the vicinity of the obstacle
2. Maneuver.
a. Obstacle protection against enemy recon/breaching (discuss overw atch, counterrecon patrols, sunrise sw eep)
b. Location of TRPs and indirect fire targets (point out location on graphics and terrain)
c. Rearw ard/forw ard passage of lines (discuss planned and routine activity around the obstacle)
d. Familiarize w ith other friendly units adjacent to the obstacle
3. Mobility/Survivability.
a. Obstacle trace (discuss corner point grids on map and point out on terrain)
b. Obstacle marking (explain type of marking and on w hich sides of the obstacle)
c. Obstacle composition (location of disarming materials)
d. Location of lanes/gaps and method of closing lanes/gaps
e. Location of material to close lanes/gaps
f. Explain purpose and target of obstacle, reporting procedures, and authority for emplacement
4. CSS.
a. Planned casualty evacuation and supply routes in the vicinity of the obstacle
5. C2.
a. DA Form 1355 or 1355-1-R, dated __________, transferred to receiving unit
b. DA Form 2203, dated _________, trans ferred to receiving unit
b. Obstacle overlay, dated __________, transferred to receiving unit
c. Target folder, dated _________, transferred to receiving unit
d. Higher headquarters (transferring, receiving, and emplacing units) notified of transfer
e. DA Form 1355 or 1355-1-R forw arded
f. 2 Copies of this form, dated ________, given to receiving unit
RECEIVING UNIT REQUIREMENTS
_______ Emplace the obstacle _______ Overw atch the obstacle
_______ Complete the obstacle _______ Remove the markings
_______ Execute the obstacle _______ Close the Lanes
_______ Guard the obstacle _______ Report the Effect
The Authority to Execute this Obstacle is: ______________________________________________
You MA Y / MAY NOT Execute this Obstacle to Prevent Immediate Capture by the Enemy
CERTIFICATION
The undersigned certify that the receiving unit has assumed full responsibility for the obstacle indicated above. The unit
commander understands all the information related to the obstacle, the obstacle intent, and his responsibility to transfer of
recover the obstacle upon his departure.
_______________________________________ _________________________________________
Signature of Transferring Unit Commander/Date Signature of Receiving Unit Commander/Date
_______________________________________ _________________________________________
Printed Name and Rank Printed Name and Rank

Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) Report
Purpose
Report discovered unexploded ordnance.
Instructions
Report by the fastest means available to next higher HQs. Ensure TF / BDE
Main is notified.
Format
DTG
Reporting unit and location
How unit can be contacted (FM frequency / call sign or phone number)
Type munitions and how it appears to have been delivered (dropped, placed,
projected, etc.)
NBC contamination
Resources threatened
Impact on mission
Protective measures taken; how UXO marked
Priority (immediate, minor, no threat)
ENSURE UXO IS CLEARLY MARKED AND WARNING IS POSTED!!

Intelligence Reports
Sensitive Item Report
Purpose
Maintain status of accountability for unit sensitive items.
Instructions
Platoons submit to company CP NLT 0530 and 1730, or upon sensitive item
being unaccounted for. Companies / separate platoons report to TF NLT
0600 and 1800; TF to BDE NLT 0630 and 1830. Routine report submitted
by FBCB2, MCS, MSE or FM. Report of unaccounted item submitted
immediately by fastest means available. Reports submitted to BDE Main.
Format
Report should read "GREEN for sensitive items" if all weapons and sensitive items
are accounted for.
Submit report immediately, in following format, if there are sensitive items
unaccounted for during daily checks, or at any time an item is lost or stolen.
DTG of loss / theft.
Unit reporting loss / theft.
Type of sensitive item lost / stolen, including serial number.
Name / Rank / SSN of individual(s) involved in incident.
Synopsis of events surrounding the loss / theft.

Battle Damage Assessment Report (BDAREP)
Report Number
B005 (USMTF # C104)
Instructions
Use to provide a timely and accurate estimate of damage resulting from the
application of military force, either lethal or non-lethal, against a
predetermined objective. Reference: FM 9-43-1.
Format
LINE 3 – NAME (Target or Installation Name)
LINE 4 − COUNTRY CODE (2-Letter Country Code)
LINE 5 − LINE BEN (Basic Encyclopedia Number, NA or UNKNOWN)
LINE 6 − LOCATION (UTM or 6-Digit Grid Coordinate with MGRS Grid Zone Designator)
LINE 7 − TM REF (Target Material Reference)
LINE 8 − PAGE NO. (Page or Sheet Number)
LINE 9 − COLLECTION DATE / TIME (IMINT Collection DTG)
LINE 10 − TYPE (Type of IMINT)
LINE 11 − QUALITY (Image Quality; GOOD / FAIR / POOR)
LINE 12 − ANGLE (Viewing Angle – Vertical or Oblique)
LINE 13 − TOT (Time-Over-Target for Attack DTG)
LINE 14 − DELIVERY SYSTEM (Number and Type of Delivery System)
LINE 15 − WEAPONS (Number and Type of Weapons and Fusing)
LINE 16 − AIM POINT NAME (Name or Description of Target Element)
LINE 17 − LOCATION (UTM or 6-Digit Grid Coordinate with MGRS Grid Zone Designator)
**Repeat lines 1 through 17 for multiple missions or sets of mission data. Assign sequential
lines to succeeding iterations; for example, first iteration 13 through 17; second iteration 13a
through 17a; third iteration 13b through 17b; and so on.
LINE 18 − BDA ANALYSIS (Narrative of Target Damage and Munitions Effects to Include:
Element Name, Grid Reference, Physical Damage, Confidence Level, and Whether Re-attack is
Required)
LINE 19 – NARRATIVE (Free Text for Additional Information Required for Clarification of
Report)

Detained Civilian Personnel Report (DETAINCIVREP)
Report Number
D020 (USMTF # C070)
Instructions
Use to provide commander of incidents where the unit has detained civilian
personnel. Send report IAW unit SOPs.
Reference: FM 19-40.
Format
LINE 3 – NO. DETAINEES / NO. AWAITING RELEASE (Number of Personnel
Detained and Awaiting Release to Foreign Nation Authorities)
LINE 4 – LOCATION (UTM or 6-Digit Grid Coordinate with MGRS Grid Zone
Designator of Collection Point)
LINE 5 – REASON FOR DETENTION (Reason for Detaining Civilian Personnel)
LINE 6 – MEDICAL CONDITION (Report if Detained Persons Require Any
Emergency Medical Treatment)
LINE 7 – POC (POC of Foreign Nation Support)
LINE 8 – PM ASSESSMENT (PM Assessment)
LINE 9 – NARRATIVE (Free Text for Additional Information Required for
Clarification of Report)

R&S Report
Sample R&S Report
Note: Include name and unit if faxed or delivered by LNO.
Line 1 - Unit:
Line 2 - R & S Asset (Patrols, Sensors, Ops, etc) (Include size of patrols):
Line 3 - Grid location of asset or route of patrol (grid to grid to grid):
Line 4 - NAI asset is covering:
Line 5 - Start time (DTG) of asset activity (Include time of departure for patrols and time
surveillance Started):
Line 6 - Stop time (DTG) of asset activity (Include time of return for patrols and time
surveillance ceased):

Weather Forecast
Sample Weather Forecast
Line 1 - Issue Time (DTG):
Line 2 -
Valid period (DTG):
Narrative (24 hour forecast):
Line 3 -
Valid period (DTG):
Narrative (24-48 hour forecast):
Line 4 - Narrative (special interest forecast):
Line 5 - Surface temperature:
Line 6 - Solar data:
Line 7 - Lunar data:

Weather Advisory
The weather advisory will be used to notify subordinate units of unusual /

extreme weather conditions.
Sample Weather Advisory
Line 1 - Time of report (DTG):
Line 2 - Weather condition:
Line 3 - Expected duration of weather condition:
Line 4 - Affected missions:

Request for Information (RFI)
Purpose
To request information from higher, adjacent or subordinate units to resolve
intelligence gaps.
Instructions
Submit to action addressee via digital system if possible, with MSE or FM as
alternate means.
Format
DTG of request.
Unit requesting information.
Information requested.
Response NLT DTG.

Response to RFI Communication (RRFI)
Instructions
Submit to requester via digital system if possible, with MSE or FM as
alternate means.
Format
DTG of response.
Unit answering RFI.
Response to RFI.
DTG of further explanation, if applicable.

Intelligence Summary (INTSUM)
Distribution
The TFS2 section will send the INTSUM at 0600 and 1800, two hours
prior to an LD or Defend NLT time, and as the situation requires.
The S2 section will send written and graphic INTSUMS via ASAS to
FBCB2. The section will notify the units once complete.
FM updates will be on the TF CMD net.
Format: Written INTSUM Format

1. S2, TF 1-23 AR, 52nd ID
2. Operation / Exercise / OPORD #, INTSUM #, Effective DTG.
3. Time period covered.
4. Effective Summary. Summarize activity since last INTSUM.
5. Current Assessment. Describe the enemy’s current
6. Next 24 Hours – Assessment. Describe what you think the enemy will do over the next 24-
hour period.
Graphic INTSUM: One page picture with brief situation description, analysis
and assessment.
Sample Graphic INTSUM
Current Situation as of: DTG Enemy Significant Activities:

Describe major activities over
the last 24 hours

Patrol Report
Purpose
To provide a guide for debriefing dismounted patrols and reporting patrol
results to higher HQs.
Instructions
If submitted to higher headquarters, utilize MCS, ASAS, or FBCB2 free text
formats summarizing information if appropriate. Utilize MSE or FM as
alternate means.
Format
Designation of patrol. Include “To,” “From,” and “Maps
Size and composition of patrol.
Task.
Time of departure.
Time of return.
Routes (out and back).
Terrain. This includes a description of terrain by type, depth of ravines and draws, condition of
bridges, and effect of terrain on tracked and wheeled vehicles.
Enemy. This includes details of enemy strength, disposition (including any shifts in
disposition), defenses, equipment, weapons, attitude, morale, exact location, and movements.
The report should include the time enemy activity was observed and coordinates of the location
where activity occurred.
Any map corrections.
Miscellaneous information, including pertinent details of NBC warfare.
Results of encounters with the enemy. This includes enemy prisoners and casualties, captured
documents and equipment, identification of enemy elements, and enemy disposition after the
contact.
Condition of the patrol, including disposition arrangements for any dead or wounded.
Conclusions and recommendations, including the extent to which the mission was accomplished
and any recommendations as to patrol equipment and tactics.
Additional remarks by the debriefer.
Note. The report should conclude with the name, rank / grade, and
organization / unit of the patrol leader.

EPW / Captured Material Report
Purpose
Reports possible enemy disruption of communications or imitative deception
communications.
Instructions
Submit ASAP following capture, prior to evacuation. Primary means is
FBCB2 Free Text message with FM as alternate. Platforms / platoons
submit report to chain of command to CO Commander / XO / 1SG / CP.
Companies report to next higher; addressees are TF / BDE S2 with
information to TF / BDE Main, TAC, Rear CPs and BDE MP PLT for EPW
RPT.
Format
For EPW
State "GREEN 6."
Item captured (state "EPW").
DTG of capture ("260845SEP83").
Place of capture, using grid coordinates ("NS 621434").
Capturing unit (appropriate call sign).
Circumstances of capture, described as briefly as possible.
For Captured Equipment
State "GREEN 6."
Item captured ("MATERIAL").
Type of document or equipment ("ANCD").
DTG of capture ("160900JUN02").
Place of capture, using grid coordinates ("NE 824615").
Capturing unit (appropriate call sign).
Circumstances of capture, described as briefly as possible.

SAEDA Report
Purpose
Reports attempts by individuals to obtain classified information, conduct
espionage and / or subvert US forces, their friends or family.
Instructions
Submit ASAP to TF / BDE S2 and unit leaders via digital system if possible,
with MSE or FM as alternate means.
Format
DTG of incident
Location of incident
Persons involved, including witnesses and other sources and suspects
Narrative of incident
Actions taken by personnel involved
Comments

SALUTE “A” Report
Sample SALUTE A Report
S - Size (number of sighted personnel/vehicles):
A - Activity (what the enemy is doing):
L - Location (grid or reference from a know point):
U - Unit (patches, signs, or markings):
T - Time (time the activity was observed):
E - Equipment (describe/identify all equipment associated with the activity):
A - Action taken (most important part of the salute report):

Debrief Format
Line-Format-Example
Patrol Identification: (2/B/1-187 Patrol 2)
DTG of Report: (27 0430R JUL 95)
Maps Used: 1:50,000 FTCKYMIM
LINE A Size and Composition of Team
Ex: 6; 3/2/B/1-187 IN
LINE B Mission
Ex: At 0100 2/B/2-14 IN conducts a squad sized security patrol to DR345876 to prevent enemy
infiltration.
LINE C Specific Information Requirements (SIR)
Ex: Any enemy activity.
LINE D Reporting Requirements
Ex: Any enemy activity.
LINE E Time of Departure (DTG)
Ex: 271255R JUL 95
Method of Infiltration
Ex: Foot
Point of Departure (Grid)
Ex: DR321654
LINE F Enemy Spotted En-route
Ex: None
1. Ground Activity
2. Air Activity
3. Miscellaneous Activity
LINE G Routes (Out)
Ex: 1 - DR321654, DR345875
1. Dismounted
2. By-Aircraft
3. By-Vehicle
LINE H Terrain
Ex: Key terrain - Hilltop 651 controls road. Key Terrain, Compartmented Terrain intersection.
Significant Terrain, Terrain Corridors & Map corrections: Road from DR4567 DR45779 (not on
map).
LINE I Enemy Forces and Installations
Ex: 2-man sniper team at DR326687 @ 0145.
LINE J Miscellaneous Information
1. Lack of animals/Strange animal behavior
2. Mutilated Plants
3. Strange, uncommon Insects
4. Abandoned Military Equipment
(a) out of fuel
(b) unserviceable
(c) destroyed / damaged
Ex: 4c. 2 x BTR-60s with wheels blown off
(d) intact
Ex: 4d. 1 x T-80 hidden in brush DR645987
5. Abandoned Towns / Villages
LINE K Results of Encounters with Enemy Force and Local Populace
Ex: 2 enemy KIA; a local from Drumville stated the enemy was foraging for food and using
local water supply.
LINE L Condition of Team (Include Disposition of Dead and Wounded)
Ex: One soldier shot in left arm, currently stable at the battalion aid station.

LINE M Any maps or other identifiable equipment lost on patrol and estimated location.
Ex: PLGR with “2/b/1-187 IN label was lost vic. DR154784.
LINE N Conclusions and Recommendations
Ex: Small units are probing perimeter.
LINE O Captured Enemy Equipment and Material Ex: 1 x SVD, 1 x AK-74.
LINE P Time of Extraction (DTG)
Ex: 27 0245R JUL 95
Method of Exfiltration
Ex: Foot
LINE Q Routes (Back)
Ex: 1. DR347873 to DR321655
LINE R Enemy Spotted during the Return
1. Ground Activity
Ex: N of DR128764
Air Activity
Ex: U/I Helicopter passed 1km
3. Miscellaneous Activity
Ex: 10 minute firefight heard at 032 degrees magnetic from DR127763 at 0245.
LINE S Time of Return (DTG)
Ex: 27 0345R JUL 95
Point of Return (Grid)
Ex: DR321655
Team Leader Name and Rank
Ex: SSG Prussia
Additional Remarks by Debriefer:

Ex: Patrol leader very tired and had to be prompted for information on
enemy contacts.

Personnel Reports
Personnel Status Report (PERSTAT)
Purpose
Reports personnel status to higher headquarters and provides a tool for
requisitioning new personnel.
Instructions
Companies and lower submit using FBCB2 PERSTAT with FM as alternate,
with addressees including TF / BDE Rear and TF / BDE S1. Platoons report
to CO 1SG / XO / Commander / CP NLT 1200 and 2400 daily. 1SG
forwards company report to TF S1 NLT 1230 and 0030 daily. TF submits to
BDE NLT 0200 and 1400 daily. Attachments, DS and OPCON units report
though the unit being supported or attached to.
Battalions submit via FBCB2 PERSTAT, MCS or MSE.
Analog Format
Submitted By Line In Slant Format By Officer / Warrant / Enlisted
Line –Item-Example
1UNIT / DTG
2PERSONNEL ASSIGNED Ex: (5/0/86)
3PERSONNEL ATTACHED Ex: (0/0/7)
4PERSONNEL DETACHED Ex: (0/0/4)
5TOTAL PERSONNEL Ex: (5/0/89)
6TOTAL PERSONNEL PRESENT FOR DUTY
Ex: (5/0/75)
7WOUNDED IN ACTION
8KILLED IN ACTION
9MISSING IN ACTION
10PERSONNEL ON LEAVE/PASS Ex: (0/0/2)
11PERSONNEL TDY
12PRSONNEL AWOL
13PERSONNEL ON REAR DETACHMENT
Ex: (0/0/12)
14PERSONNEL REPLACEMENTS REQUIRED
(RANK / SPECIALTY / QUANTITY)

FBCB2 PERSTAT Report

FBCB2 is the primary means for submitting the Personnel Report for
company and smaller units, and for battalions without CSSCS. The
PERSTAT Report does not have default address groups. Platforms address
to PSG and PL. PSG addresses to 1SG / XO / Commander / CP. Report
from company should be addressed to TF / BDE Rear and Main CPs and S1.
The initial unit roster is created from the bottom up with each platform in
putting the personnel data for the soldiers associated with that system. The
PERSTAT is then rolled up at platoon and company and sent as a company
roll-up to the BDE CSSCS for action with an info copy to the BN CSSCS (if
equipped). The BN PERSTAT report is then sent back down to each
platform so that changes in personnel status can be tracked and reported back
up the chain. When changes are reported, the system only reports on changes
to records in the database from the last time a personnel status report was
sent. Default addressees are not provided with this message.
The PERSTAT build and CTIL receipt are sent immediately following a
UTO change. In the ideal scenario, the UTO is transmitted as part of pre-
deployment operations order. After commanders have reported 100 %
acceptance of the UTO, the CTIL action message can be sent and accepted
and the PERSTAT can be built. These tasks can then be checked as part of
PCC / PCIs.
Sample Personnel Status Report (FBCB2)


Personnel SPOT Report
Sample Personnel SPOT Report
PERSONNEL SPOT REPORT
A. UNI T_____ ____________________________________

B. DTG PREPARED_________________________________
LOSS CATEGORY C. OFF D. WO E. ENL F. TOTAL
KI A
WI A
MI A
NON BATTLE LOSSES
G. TOTAL LOSSES
H. REMARKS______________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________

Casualty Report
Purpose
Reports personnel status to higher headquarters and provides a tool for
requisitioning new personnel.
Instructions
Companies and lower submit using FBCB2 Free Text message with FM as
alternate, with addressees including BDE ALOC and BDE S1 with BDE
Main / TAC as info addressees. Battalions submit via FBCB2 or MCS with
MSE or FM as alternate means. Submit ASAP.
Format
A. Battle roster number.
B. DTG of the incident.
C. Location of the incident (encoded).
D. Type of casualties, encoded by letter as follows:
ALPHA: KIA, hostile action.
BRAVO: KIA, non-hostile action.
CHARLIE: Body recovered.
DELTA: Body not recovered.
ECHO: Body identified.
FOXTROT: Body not identified.
GOLF: MIA.
HOTEL: Captured.
INDIA: WIA, slight, hostile action.
JULIET: WIA, serious, hostile action.
KILO: WIA, slight, non-hostile action.
LIMA: WIA, serious, non-hostile action.
MIKE: Accident.
Status of evacuation and location to which casualties are evacuated.

MEDEVAC Request
Purpose
Requests immediate evacuation of casualties.
Instructions
Submitted by the fastest means available. Requests for urgent casualties
should always be initiated on FM to get the most rapid response, followed by
a digital request. Routine evacuation request may be sent via FBCB2
MEDEVAC message, but should be accompanied by an FM alert to the
primary addressee.
Installation MEDEVAC FM frequencies.
Format
1. Location of pickup site (grid coordinates)
2. Radio Frequency (your call sign and suffix)
3. Number of patients by precedence:
A –Urgent (save life, limb, eyesight within two hours)
B –Urgent -Surgical (surgery required to save life and stabilize)
C – Priority (required medical care is not available, will deteriorate to Urgent if not evacuated
within four hours)
D – Routine (sick and wounded who require evacuation within twenty-four hours)
E – Convenience
4. Special equipment required
A – none
B – hoist
C – extraction
D – ventilator
5. Number of patients by type L + # patients – Litter
A + # patients – Ambulatory
6. Security of pick up site
N – no enemy troops in area
P – possible enemy troops
E – enemy troops in area, approach with caution
X – enemy troops in area, armed escort required
7. Method of marking pickup site (LZ)
A – panels
B – pyrotechnic signal
C – smoke signal
D – none
E – other
8. Patients nationality and status (military / civilian)
A – US military
B – US civilian
C – Non-US military
D – Non-US civilian
E – EPW
9. NBC contamination
N – Nuclear
B – Biological

C – Chemical
U – Unknown
A – All Clear
**When air / ground communications are established, the pilot will require
the following information from the ground (LZ): Size of LZ, obstacles
(wire, antennas, ditch, vehicles), wind direction and velocity and the slope of
the terrain.

FBCB2 MEDEVAC Message

The combat MEDEVAC report is used to call for a medical evacuation. All
required fields are provided on this form. The message specifications
require a 17- character call sign and a 2-character frequency in order for it to
work. Users should add enough characters (zeros) to the end of the correct
call sign and frequency to fulfill this requirement.
Prior to utilizing the combat MEDEVAC, users must enter the Radio
Frequency and Call Sign for their platform in the “Admin>Platform
Settings>Misc” dialog box on the BCOPS screen. This will allow the
software to automatically fill the information in the message. Users cannot
enter this information directly into this form. Both fields require more
characters than Army call signs / frequencies have, so use zeros to fill them
completely.
Dialog Box on BCOPS Screen (FBCB2)
Select the MEDEVAC report from the Combat Messages Box using the
MEDEVAC tab. Fill in the fields using the drop down menus. Type in the

pickup location or use the map or LRF fill options. Ensure that the Radio
Frequency and Call Sign are showing.
Sample MEDEVAC Request (FBCB2)

Medical Situation Report (MEDSITREP)
Purpose
To report medical status, medical trends, and patients treated.
Instructions
Medical platoons and FSC Medical Company submit daily at 2300 using
FBCB2 Medical SITREP (See below) format. Data is from 0100 to 2300.
Submit to BDE Surgeon and FSB Area Treatment Team, with TF / BDE
Rear and FSC / FSB SPO as info addressees. BDE Surgeon compiles data
and submits to DIV Surgeon NLT 2400.
Sample Medical SITREP (FBCB2)
Analog Format
DTG:
FROM:
LINE 1: VEHICLE STATUS:
TYPE-O/H-FMC-NMCA. M997
B. M113
C. M923
D. M1068/M557

E. M998
LINE 2: CLASS VIII CRITICAL SHORTAGES:
NOMENCLATURE-REQ-O/H
LINE 3: CRITICAL SHORT MED PERSONNEL STATUS:QUANTITY-MOSLINE 4: DNBI
INFORMATION:
A. MEDICAL TRENDS, CONCERNS, POTENTIAL THREATS
B. REAL WORLD PATIENTS (LAST 24 HOURS):
TOTAL SEEN:
RTD
EVAC
C. REAL WORLD PATIENTS (LAST 24 HOURS):
TOTAL SEEN:
RTD
EVAC
LINE 5: CASUALTIES (LAST 24 HOURS)
A. EVAC BY AIR
B. EVAC BY GROUND
C. DOW
D. RTDE. TOTAL ______LINE 6: CASUALTIES (TOTAL)
F. EVAC BY AIR.
G. EVAC BY GROUND
H. DOW
I. RTD
J. TOTAL ______

Casualty Feeder Report
Sample Casualty Feeder Report

Logistics Reports
Logistics Status Report (LOGSTAT)
Purpose
Reports logistical status and requirements forecast.
Instructions
Report is initiated starting at platform level, and rolled up at platoon and
company level. Platform sends to PL / PSG; PSG consolidates and sends to
1SG / Commander daily by 0700. 1SG consolidates and sends company
report to TF Rear (S4), Main CPs, FSC SPO, and the brigade S4 and FSB
SPO CSSCS box NLT 0800. (CSSCS will only receive the LOGSTAT from
the 1SG, Commander, XO, or Company CP FBCB2.)
Format (FBCB2 Report)

See succeeding card. Highlight critical shortages / requirements in
accompanying free text comments.
LOGSTAT reports initiate at the platform level, with the flow of the reports
from the platform to the PSG, who consolidates the platoon’s reports and
forwards a single report to the 1SG. The 1SG consolidates the company’s
reports and forwards a single report to the BN S4, the FSC and the FSB
SPO. BN S4’s may roll up the reports to a single BN report for his use or as
required by the Commander / staff, but the individual company reports must
be sent to the FSB SPO CSSCS in order to track units at the lowest possible
level.
Before consolidating (roll-up) reports, check the FIPR queue to see if the
right number of reports has been received.
The report is based on authorized and on-hand quantities. The required

quantity is calculated based on those two data fields. Additional
requirements above authorized level are coordinated for in comments field or
separate free text messages.
Save the message before sending; a warning will be given if this is not done.

Sample LOGSTAT Report (FBCB2)
The LOGSTAT is based on the Commander’s Tracked Items List (CTIL).

The BDE S4 tailors the division CTIL and establishes the BDE CTIL and
forwards it to the BN S4s and separate company / troop 1SGs. At battalion /
troop level, the BDE CTIL is modified to fit the unit requirements, then
forwarded to each platform in the unit.
Vehicles accepting a CTIL action message cause the database to be

modified. If a platform operator does not open the CTIL action message
from the FIPR function the changes to the database will not be posted to his
system. This can cause logistical tracking problems if an operator does not
open each CTIL action message as it is received or if multiple CTIL action
messages are in the FIPR and he does not open them in the proper
(sequential) date time group sequence. To have a common operating picture
for logistics, units should track acceptance of the CTIL message, just like a
UTR change. When a CTIL message is received and saved, it will overwrite
the FBCB2
LOGSTAT data. A warning message is given prior to saving.
The best TTP for both the PERSTAT build and CTIL receipt is to schedule
these events right after the UTO has been sent and received. In the ideal
scenario, the UTO is transmitted as part of pre-deployment operations order
(i.e., the week before training). Later that day, after commanders have
reported 100% acceptance of the UTO, the CTIL action message can be sent

and accepted and the PERSTAT can be built. These tasks are checked as part
of PCC / PCIs.
Sample LOGSTAT Report (FBCB2) (continued)

Battle Loss Report
The Battle Loss Report outlines critical equipment that is rendered non-
mission capable.
Sample Battle Loss Report
Battle Loss Report As of:
1. LIN #
2. UNIT
3. LOCATION OF LOSS
4. NOMENCLATURE
5. QUANTITY
6. REASON FOR LOSS
7. REPORTING UNIT
CONTROL #
8. BDE CONTROL #
9. DMMC DOC #

AMMO Status / Request
Purpose
Reports status or request ammunition.
Instructions
These reports are primarily used internally at task force and below, but may
be used by platoon and company elements such as the BRT operating
directly under TF / BDE control.
Primary method of transmission is via FBCB2 Free Text message or FM. If

report is going to BDE, ensure BDE ALOC and FSB SPO or included in
addressees. Submitted as required or requested.
Format
AMMO Status
1. GREEN: 90% or more on hand, all ammunition types.
2. AMBER: 80% to 89% on hand, all ammunition types.
3. RED: 60% to 79% on hand, all ammunition types.
4. BLACK: 59% or less on hand, all ammunition types.
Note. BLACK status requires immediate follow-up with an Ammo Request.

GREEN, AMBER, or RED status does not require submission of an Ammo
Request.
AMMO Request
The FBCB2 SITREP can be used to report ammo status and request, but only
one type of ammo can be entered in the message field per message.
Additional shortages / requests can be added in the comments field. At TF
level and lower, critical ammo shortages will be reported and requested
using FM as primary method. If requesting via FM, provide the ammunition
type / nomenclature / DODAC or line number and number of rounds
required.

POL Status / Request
Purpose
Report status or request ammunition.
Instructions
These reports are primarily used internally at task force and below, but may
be used by platoon and company elements such as the BRT operating
directly under TF / BDE control.
Primary method of transmission is via FBCB2 Free Text message or FM. If

report is going to BDE, ensure BDE ALOC and FSB SPO or included in
addressees.
Submitted as required or requested.
Format
POL Status
1. GREEN: 90% or more on hand, all ammunition types.
2. AMBER: 80% to 89% on hand, all ammunition types.
3. RED: 60% to 79% on hand, all ammunition types.
4. BLACK: 59% or less on hand, all ammunition types.
Note: BLACK status in a POL Status Report requires immediate follow-up

with a POL Request. GREEN, AMBER, or RED status does not require
submission of a POL Request.
POL Request
The FBCB2 SITREP can be used to report POL status and request. At TF level and
lower, critical POL shortages will be reported and requested using FM as primary
method. Provide POL item description or line number and quantity required.

REFERENCES
FM 3-0, Operations
FM 5-0 (101-5), Army Planning and Orders Production
FM 6-0, Mission Command: Command and Control of Army Forces
FM 17-95, Cavalry Operations
FM 34-8, Combat Commander’s Handbook on Intelligence
FM 34-2, Collection Management and Synchronization Planning
FM 34-2-1, Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Reconnaissance and
Surveillance and Intelligence Support to Counter-reconnaissance
ST 3-90.23, Mechanized Infantry and Armor Battalion Task Force Tactical
SOP
FM 101-5-2, U. S. Army Reports and Message Formats
Commander’s Battle Staff Handbook, ARI Research Product
Battle Command Training Program, C-Team Workshops
Selected Unit TACSOPs



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Army National Guard

Battle Command Training Center

ARNG Battle Command Training Center

Distribution authorized to Army National Guard units and U. S. Government

ARMY NATIONAL GUARD

This publication may be distributed in paper media.

Purpose. The purpose of this document is to provide Army National Guard

Preparation and Exception Authority. The authorship and construct of this

Suggested Improvements. Users are invited to send comments and suggested

Battle Command Training Center

LTC Jerry Wood

© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page i

ARMY NATIONAL GUARD

ABOUT THIS GUIDE --------------------------------------------------------- 1

GENERAL STAFF PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS ----------------------- 2

Command and Staff Duties and Responsibilities------------------- 2

The Military Decision Making Process (MDMP) ------------------- 30

© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page ii

Seeing Ourselves ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 42

SPECIAL STAFF PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS----------------------- 84

© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page iii

NBC Reports -----------------------------------------------------------------112

© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page iv

© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page v

Intelligence Reports -------------------------------------------------------138

Personnel Reports ---------------------------------------------------------153

© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page vi

Logistics Reports ----------------------------------------------------------165

© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page vii

Battalion Battle Rhythm----------------------------------------------------------------- 18

© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page viii

Sample COA Decision Briefing ------------------------------------------------------- 80

© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page ix

ABOUT THIS GUIDE

The BCTC AKO Collaboration Website may be accessed as follows:

© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page 1

GENERAL STAFF PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS

Command and Staff Duties and Responsibilities

XO Duties and Responsibilities

What the XO needs to know from the battalion commander:

© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page 2

What the Battalion Commander needs to know from the XO:

© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page 3

S1 Duties and Responsibilities

The S1 is a vital link in the commander's staff as he assists in supervising the

What the S1 needs to know from the Battalion Commander:

What the Battalion Commander needs to know from the S1:

© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page 4

S2 Duties and Responsibilities

The S2 provides the intelligence and counterintelligence functions for the

What the S2 needs to know from the Battalion Commander:

What the Battalion Commander needs to know from the S2:

© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page 5

S3 Duties and Responsibilities

The S3, as the battalion's operations officer, is the Commander's main

What the S3 needs to know from the Battalion Commander:

What the Battalion Commander needs to know from the S3:

© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page 6

S4 Duties and Responsibilities

The sustainment of the battalion is the primary responsibility of the S4. He

What the S4 needs to know from the Battalion Commander:

What the Battalion Commander needs to know from the S4:

© Battle Command Training Center (BCTC) Page 7