# Security Operations Security includes all measures taken by a command to protect itself from surprise, provocation, espionage, sabotage, or observation by the threat. Security operations provide the protected force early and accurate warning of threat operations and develop the situation to provide time and maneuver space within which to effectively use the protected force to exploit or react to threat actions Security operations are characterized by reconnaissance to reduce terrain and threat unknowns, gaining and maintaining contact with the threat to ensure continuous information flow, and providing early and accurate reporting of information to the protected force. Security missions include screen, guard, cover, and area security missions. Security operations are defined by both the degree of protection offered to the main body and the physical characteristics of the operation. The battalion is capable of conducting and/or supporting all security missions; however, it normally participates in guard and covering force operations as part of a larger force. The ARB commonly executes offensive tasks to provide security to its higher headquarters, and may conduct security operations to the front, flanks, rear, around, or between protected forces, sustainment or LOCs. The main difference between security and reconnaissance operations is security operations orient on the force, area, or facility being protected while reconnaissance orients on threat and/or terrain The fundamental purposes of the ARB in security operations are— * Providing near real-time terrain and enemy information based on the commander's guidance and PIR. * Providing reaction time and maneuver space for the main body. * Preserving combat power. z Facilitating C2. * Facilitating movement. * Performing rear area operations. * Acting as a ready reaction force. These roles are not necessarily missions themselves but are translated into mission statements by the battalion commander. Attack reconnaissance participates in these roles as a team with ground forces or as an independent force. Security operations are conducted in all types of terrain, to include a complex variety of natural and manmade features and urban environments. Primarily considered shaping operations, ARC security operations can be an economy of force to control essentials such as key terrain over dispersed operations or provide more combat power for decisive operations. ARC security missions in support of urban operations include— Screening the flanks of forces— „ * Encircling to isolate an urban area. „ * Approaching to secure a foothold or conduct decisive operations within the urban area. * Participating in guard to develop the situation or secure a foothold in urban terrain. * Securing area of combat support or sustainment areas, critical infrastructure, facilities, or high- value assets. * Filling the gap between operations being conducted within or between urban areas or behind lead combat forces. * Protecting LOCs by securing routes and conducting convoy security to ensure uninterrupted supply of forward elements. Considerations for security operations include— * Orchestrating sensors to develop the situation. * Maneuvering to positions of advantage increasing agility and mobility of the force. * Developing and share the COP with all members of the air-ground team. * Applying principles of reconnaissance through gaining and maintaining contact. * Conducting actions on contact to fix, isolate, provide reinforcing fires, or destroy threat forces. * Synchronizing fires, maneuver, and tactical assault as required. * Maintaining communications with all members of the air-ground team. *** ## Fundamentals The ARB performs security missions to preserve the combat power and freedom of maneuver of friendly forces while providing information about the threat and terrain. ARCs provide security by providing information to and preventing threat observation and direct fires upon the protected force. Successful security operations are planned and executed by applying the following five fundamentals: * Maintain threat contact. * Orient on the force or facility to be secured. * Provide early and accurate warning. * Provide reaction time and maneuver space. * Perform continuous reconnaissance. *** ## Maintain Threat Contact Once the ARC gains contact, it does not break contact unless directed to do so by its higher headquarters. This requires continuous visual contact, use of direct and indirect fires, freedom to maneuver, and depth in space and time. The key is to maintain mobility superiority over the threat forces. The ARC ensures a continuous flow of combat information and prevents the threat from endangering friendly forces. ### Orient on the Force or Facility to be Secured A security force operates between the main body and known or suspected threat units. The ARC commander maneuvers the company to positions to provide screening support to the main body commander’s scheme of maneuver. The screen should be positioned to remain between the main body and the threat force. The distance is based on the relative vulnerability of the main body and expected threat rate of advance. As a general rule, the main body's required preparation time is multiplied by the expected threat rate of advance in kilometers per hour. This equals the minimum distance to emplace security. If this distance cannot be achieved, additional combat power and a more robust obstacle plan may be required. The ARC operates at the prescribed distance and focuses all its actions on providing early warning and protecting the protected force, facility, or infrastructure. All aircrews must understand that the value of any terrain within their AO hinges on the advantages it provides in protecting the force or facility. The ARC orients on and, if necessary, moves with the protected force. The ARC commander and his subordinate elements must know the protected force’s scheme of maneuver or defensive plan, and use their mobility and endurance differential to maintain security for the protected force or facility ### Provide Early and Accurate Warning Early warning of threat activity includes accurate reports regarding threat— * Size * Current Disposition * Location * Direction of movement * Rate of Advance * Special Equipment This gives the main body commander the time and information needed to seize or retain the tactical initiative and concentrate overwhelming combat power at the right time and place to engage the enemy. ### Provide Reaction Time and Maneuver Space Early and accurate warning, security purpose, and operating distances combine to provide the protected force time and space to effectively exploit or respond to threat actions. The higher commander specifies the ARC’s security purpose and operating distance, or AO, enabling him to choose the time and place to concentrate against the threat from an advantageous position. Based on the security purpose, the ARC executes offensive or defensive tasks to fix, contain, delay, or disrupt threat tempo and cohesion, providing time and/or space to the protected force. At a minimum, the ARC operates at a distance from the protected force to prevent threat ground forces from observing or engaging the protected force or facility with direct fire. Operating distances will vary based on the operational environment, for example from 10 kilometers in rural terrain to a city block in urban operations The main body commander thinks and plans in terms of time and space required for maneuver and concentration of subordinate units against enemy weaknesses. Reconnoitering or performing security operations well forward or to the flanks of the main body, the ARC develops the situation and prevents the commander from fighting at a disadvantage. The ARC provides time for the commander to assess the situation, determine a COA, issue orders, and maneuver. The ARC also provides space to maneuver creating flexibility for the commander to respond to unanticipated threat initiatives. The amount of time and space provided may be determined by the higher commander's intent, but generally the mission defines it. ### Perform Continuous Reconnaissance A security force performs continuous reconnaissance to gain all possible information about the enemy force and terrain within the assigned AO. Accurate, timely information provides security; the ultimate goal is to answer the commander’s PIRs and enable timely decisions by the protected force commander to influence the operation. *** ## Planning Considerations The ARC must receive additional critical information beyond just the security mission. The following critical items of information are needed to facilitate planning: * Dimensions of the security mission (normally depicted on graphic overlay). * Minimum reaction time required. This allows the ARC commander to determine if the depth of the security zone is sufficient to accomplish the mission and determines how long the security force must delay before falling back to successive PLs. * Minimum sized threat force that must be detected. This allows the ARC to determine required density of the screen. The ARC follows general planning principles in preparing for a security mission and determines the number of teams required to perform the mission. The company specifies the area of the security and time the security must be effectively established with battalion-size avenues of approach into the identified area. The depth of the area should provide enough distance for the main body to react in minimal time. The company must not establish its initial security too close to the main body, but within range of the main body artillery. The initial screen also follows advantageous terrain for observation of avenues of approach. It is delineated by a PL and located behind critical control measures such as CFLs and fire support coordination lines (FSCLs). PPs and routes through stationary units are also coordinated. Consideration must be given when assigning the ARC its own terrain. ASE and/or EW considerations must be part of the mission planning process to minimize risks while accomplishing the mission. Limited visibility conditions and weather may affect the ARC’s ability to cover a zone and/or sector. Conversely, there are times when ground units are limited by mobility, terrain, vegetation, or time, and the ARC is the only asset capable of conducting the mission The company commander, in conjunction with the protected force commander, must determine the width and depth of the security and establish a rear boundary between the main body and security force. The company may initially assume responsibility for the area between the main body and security force. The company may conduct a zone reconnaissance from the main body to the initial screen line and then maintain surveillance between the security force and screen line. The main body may be required to conduct patrols or establish OPs near their positions. The ARC must carefully plan and coordinate its subsequent rearward movement and passage of lines. Fires are planned, and emplacement of manmade obstacles is coordinated to impede the threat's advance. The combination of fires and natural and man-made obstacles allows the company to impede threat lead elements, maintain contact, and avoid decisive engagement. The company may also continue reconnaissance forward to identify threat second echelon and follow-on forces. Upon contact, the company focuses its effort on the destruction of threat reconnaissance elements by direct and indirect fires before the threat can penetrate the initial screen line. ### Capabilities Commanders consider METT-TC when employing their company in a security role. A screen or area security may normally be assigned to the company; fill the gap, LOC security, and guard may be assigned to the company but requires augmentation. However, depending on METT-TC, the company may not be fully capable to conduct the associated tactical tasks within the operational environment without augmentation. ARCs execute security operations as independent operations or in a supporting role to the ground maneuver commander. The higher commander’s intent and purpose for security, combined with the mission’s duration within the operational environment, determines the required augmentation. Requirements to conduct sustained operations, defeat or destroy threat forces, or accept decisive engagement may require task organization to include mechanized or light infantry, tank, DS or reinforcing artillery, intelligence systems, UAS, EW assets, and communication nodes. Urban operations and other stability operations may require military police, PSYOPS, and CA augmentation. An ARC, operating independently, normally maintains an 8 to 10 kilometers front based on METT-TC. Using its organic firepower, it screens or fights within range of the main body artillery. This maximizes its ability to provide reaction time and maneuver space for the main body commander to concentrate combat power. During cover operations, forces forward may be out of the main body's artillery range. *** ## Types of Security Operations The four types of security missions the ARC is expected to conduct and participate in are screen, guard, cover, and area security. ### Screen The primary purpose of a screen is to provide early warning to the main body through the communication of real-time combat information. This gives the protected force reaction time and maneuver space to orient to meet the threat. The screen provides the protected force with the least protection of any security mission. The ARC screens forward and to the flanks or rear of a stationary main body and to the flanks or rear of a moving main body. Screening operations are not performed forward of a moving force because that would be an advance guard or zone reconnaissance. Based on the higher commander’s intent, the ARC may be required to impede and harass the enemy with supporting fires and, within its capabilities, destroy or repel enemy reconnaissance elements without becoming decisively engaged. Otherwise, the ARC fights only in self-defense. See figure 3-10 for screen locations.
Screen missions are defensive in nature, largely accomplished by establishing a series of OPs to ensure adequate surveillance of the assigned sector. Although defensive in nature, a screen is active in execution. Stationary screens may be conducted around or between any force, while moving screens are conducted everywhere except in advance of a moving force The higher commander should not place a time duration for the screen, as that may force the ARC to accept decisive engagement. A screen is most appropriate when— * Operations have created extended flanks. * Gaps exist between ground commands that cannot be secured in force. * Early warning is required over an area not considered critical enough for greater security (economy of force). ### Critical Tasks #### The following are critical tasks for conducting screen operations: * Provide early warning of threat approach. * Maintain contact with the protected force. * Maintain continuous surveillance of all avenues of approach larger than a designated size into the sector. * Maintain contact with threat forces, not allowing threat ground elements to pass through the sector undetected and unreported. * Destroy, repel, or suppress threat reconnaissance and impede or disrupt threat forces (within capabilities) in accordance with guidance without becoming decisively engaged. * Impede and harass the enemy with indirect fires while displacing. * Guide reaction forces. * Locate threat security forces and the main body to determine their direction of movement, composition, and intent, if applicable. ### Premission Planning The ARC commander plans his concept using the following critical considerations: **Aircraft Rotation**: * The commander determines the method of rotating aircraft to sustain an aerial screen, considering mission time, aircraft availability, and expected relief on station. **Organization**: * The commander organizes the screen based on higher commander’s guidance, likelihood of threat contact, size of assigned sector, duration of the mission, and aircraft availability. If large frontages or several avenues of approach need to be covered, the company may deploy in teams instead of platoons. **Coordination**: * The ARC ensures the location of FARPs, supporting fires, and forward assembly areas (FAAs) are known by all aircrews. The commander coordinates his concept closely with the higher commander. The ARC must pay particular attention to OP locations, artillery positions, and the ground scheme of maneuver. Coordinating the air passage of lines when operating forward of ground units is essential. **Concealment**: * The company situates the screen to maximize the ARC’s ability to maintain concealment while observing the operational environment. Teams work together, ensuring fields of observation overlap and preventing the threat from passing undetected. Air routes to and from succeeding screen lines should provide adequate cover and concealment. Cover may be difficult to obtain along a route, but concealment is critical. During movement, teams ensure visual contact with the threat is continuously maintained. **OP Emplacement**: * The most forward OP is positioned abeam the leading ground unit, while the subsequent OPs are arrayed in depth along the length of the main body toward the rear. OP selection should be based on fields of observation into NAIs. Movement along the flank screen line may be controlled using one of three methods—successive bounds (similar to boundingoverwatch), alternate bounds (similar to traveling overwatch), or continuous (similar to traveling). The most secure technique is one in which aircrews move from the trail OP to the most forward OP. This works best when the main body is moving slowly. A less secure technique may be used when the main body is moving faster. It involves all OPs moving forward simultaneously on command to the next OP. The screening force may also move continuously, but this is the least secure and least preferred method. Table 3-3 provides a list of movement methods. **Enemy Aircraft**: * Part of the screen mission may be to alert friendly forces of approaching enemy aircraft. The teams maintain surveillance of air avenues of approach the same way they maintain surveillance of ground avenues of approach. Reports of incoming aircraft alert all assets in the area to take appropriate action. Linking the company to the AD warning system provides aircrews the SA needed to maintain an effective aerial screen. **Displacement**: * The ARC must identify the criteria for displacing to a subsequent screen line. As the threat situation threatens the security of the screening force, the company reports and requests movement to the next screen line. Staggered movement of the screen line allows the company to identify the flanks and rear of attacking threat forces. The ARC commander usually decides when to move from a screen line; however, the higher commander decides when the company may move behind the rear boundary PL. Prompt, accurate reporting is essential to prevent decisive engagement. Maximum use is made of onboard aircraft sensors. **Command and Control**: * The ARC commander chooses the best position to control the screen line. Normally, this is at a vantage point from which he can move freely, maintain communications with both higher and subordinate elements, and best influence the operation.
*** ## Types of Screens The ARC conducts two types of screen missions–stationary and moving. ### Stationary Screen The ARC conducts a screen for a stationary force when the main body commander is preparing for future TACOPs. During reconstitution activities or planning and preparation phases, the main body commander may remain stationary. The ARC may be assigned screen operations when ground forces are preparing for defensive or offensive operations before actual movement begins. Initial occupation of a unit BP may also require screening activities. Figure 3-11 illustrates a company stationary screen.
The ARC commander occupies the assigned sector and establishes OPs with overlapping fields of observation, and in depth when at all possible. Teams are positioned to take advantage of established links with higher echelon collection assets and sensors. Ground forces reconnoiter areas that cannot be observed by OPs, and the TF reserve is positioned to react in accordance with its planning priorities and for flexible response to unforeseen contingencies. The ARC uses fires to destroy threat reconnaissance and HPTs, and disrupts movement of other forces based on its TA requirements and ROE. OPs engage at maximum ranges with indirect fire only, directing ground units to engage with direct fire if available. The company commander determines when to move to subsequent screen lines; however, during linear operations the protected force commander decides when the ARC can move behind the screen line (PL) designating its rear boundary. Displacement to subsequent screen line or OP positions is normally event driven, but the company commander may direct a displacement if the company’s security is threatened even if the criteria has not been met. Teams displace using alternate or successive movement, but must maintain contact with threat forces unless it conducts a BHO with another unit. If the ARC requires relief on station or BHO from another unit, the battalion/TF staff coordinates with the relieving unit to determine the requirements. Reconnaissance elements relieve each other by aircraft, team, or company as briefed. In each case, the ARC flight lead links up with the incoming leader and communicates the current friendly positions, enemy situation, and plan for relief or handover. When the AMPS is used to maintain a SA net, the relieving force should arrive with updated graphics, reducing the time needed to conduct the relief or handover. #### *Initial Screen Line* The most secure method of establishing an initial screen line is conducting a force oriented zone reconnaissance to the initial screen line. When the teams reach the general trace of the screen line, they reconnoiter and refine it. Positions are also selected for good observation and fields of fire. The teams seek to remain undetected while reporting threat activity and engaging threat forces with indirect fires at maximum range. A combination of obstacles and coordinated fires allows teams to impede threat lead elements, maintain contact, and avoid decisive engagement. This gives the main body reaction time and maneuver space to engage the threat effectively. The company may continue reconnaissance forward to identify threat second echelon and follow-on forces. Upon contact, the teams focus efforts on the destruction of threat reconnaissance elements by direct and indirect fires before the threat can penetrate the initial screen line. #### *Successive Screen Line* Successive screen lines, located one behind the other, provide the ARC with maneuver space. As threat pressure compromises the security of the ARC, or the movement of the main body dictates, the company reports and requests to move to the next screen line. Teams rapidly move from a screen line while maintaining visual contact with the threat. Staggered movement off the screen line ensures that gaps occurring during movement are quickly closed. The procedure is repeated as necessary. The main body commander decides when the ARC is no longer necessary as a screen force and allows it to conduct follow-on missions. Maximum use is made of the aircraft’s onboard sensors. ### Moving Screen When the main body is moving, the ARC conducts a moving screen and determines the technique of screening based on METT-TC, the maneuver force commander’s intent, and the company’s orientation. The commander assigning the screening mission provides the parameters of the screen and times and locations of the establishment of the screen. The higher commander also identifies the unit or units to be screened and provides the operations overlay and control measures. The emphasis of a moving screen may vary from a stationary screen, as it is not normally performed to the front of a moving force but to the flanks or rear of the protected force. A moving rear screen is executed similar to a front stationary screen. As the protected force moves, the company occupies a series of successive screen lines behind the protected force. Movement is regulated to maintain the protected force’s commander’s desired time and distance factors. For a moving screen, the width of the AO is not as important as the length of the protected force. The three types of moving screens are flank, rear, and rear area incursion. #### *Moving Flank Screen* The moving flank screen is the most difficult screening mission. ARC elements move on a route parallel to the movement axis of the main body. The higher commander defines the initial area to be screened, subsequent screen lines, and the rear boundary. ARC teams occupy a series of OPs on the screen line. The forward team(s) maintains contact on the near flank of the main body as the lead elements move on the axis of advance. The main body and ARC must maintain contact at all times. When working with ground units in a moving flank screen mission, ARCs are well-suited to maintain contact with the main body and perform reconnaissance forward of the ground units. An ARC screening to the flank of a moving unit plans a line of OPs and prepares to occupy each, in turn, as the main body advances. If possible, the ARC reconnoiters out to the maximum range of supporting fires. Except for these procedures, the mission is planned and conducted the same as a stationary screen. While maintaining contact with the main body, the teams must be aware of the distance of the ground units from the main body to prevent over-extension of the screen. Figure 3-12 provides an example of a company conducting a moving flank screen.
#### *Moving Rear Screen* Screening the rear of a moving force is essentially the same as screening a stationary force. As the protected force moves, the ARC occupies a series of successive screen lines. Movement is regulated by the requirement to maintain the time and distance factors desired by the main body commander. Sectors and responsibilities are assigned as in the stationary screen. In a rear screen, a company may move to subsequent screen lines without threat pressure as long as it remains within friendly artillery range and can effectively screen the rear. If threat contact is made, the teams execute actions on contact the same as a stationary screen. Figure 3-13, provides an example of a company conducting a moving rear screen.
#### *Rear Area Incursion Screen* During rear area enemy incursions, the ARC responds and conducts both attack and security operations. The purpose is to gain and maintain contact, and destroy threat forces in conjunction with ground reaction forces. Aircrews guide friendly QRFs or assist in the attack and destruction of the threat force. Figure 3-14, shows the ARC's role in a rear area incursion operation. ### Guard A guard force accomplishes all the tasks of a screening force. A guard operation protects the main body from enemy ground observation, direct fire, and surprise attack. A guard may be performed for a stationary or moving force, and to the front, flank, or rear of the main body. The guard force reconnoiters attacks, defends, and delays as necessary to destroy enemy reconnaissance elements and disrupt the deployment of enemy first echelon forces. The guard force normally operates within the range of main body indirect-fire weapons. The main body commander assigns the guard mission when contact is expected or there is an exposed flank that requires greater protection than a screen provides. The ARC cannot perform a guard mission independently and without augmentation of ground forces. Normally, the ARC performs zone reconnaissance, screen operations, hasty attacks, and CCA in support of the BCT or ground maneuver TF conducting the guard operation.
### Critical Tasks When operating as an element of a guard force, the ARC conducts the following critical tasks for the ground maneuver commander: * Performs reconnaissance along the main body’s axis of advance. * Performs reconnaissance between the main body and guard force BPs. * Maintains continuous surveillance of threat avenues of approach larger than a designated size into the AO. * Maintains contact with threat forces, not allowing threat ground elements to pass through the AO undetected and unreported. * Maintains contact with the lead combat element of the main body. * Destroys or repels threat reconnaissance and security forces and impedes or disrupts threat forces in accordance with guidance and capabilities. * Defeats, repels, or fixes threat ground forces before it engages the main body with direct fire. * Locates and causes the threat main body to deploy, determining its composition and direction of travel, if applicable. ### Premission Planning The commander assigning the guard mission must indicate the type and level of protection required, and the time the guard is to be established. Expected duration of the guard mission should also be given. Because guard forces are expected to force and disrupt enemy deployment, the ARC operates on a narrower front than when conducting a screen. A commander directing a guard mission must consider the requirement to clear the area between the main body and the unit’s guard-designated positions. The ARC may need additional assets to clear the area while keeping adequate combat power forward to protect the main body. The ARC may have FA in DS or priority of fires. This assistance depends on artillery support available and type and level of protection required by the commander who assigns the guard mission. Normally, guard units occupy BPs across the most likely avenues of approach. The units do not withdraw to successive positions without the permission of the main body commander. Elements within the guard force often have different missions. {% hint style="info" %} The ARC may screen a less vulnerable zone while the remaining ground elements guard an area with critical avenues of approach. The ARC commander utilizes the same planning factors for a screen to support the guard operation. The ARC may also be designated as the TF reserve or QRF and positioned to support the ground guard force with hasty attacks and CCA. {% endhint %} *** ## Types of Guard Operations The ARC supports two types of guard missions—stationary and moving. ### Stationary Guard A stationary guard is performed when the main body is not moving. It may be conducted to the front (advance), rear, or flanks of the main body but is normally conducted to the front. As part of a stationary guard, the ARC deploys forward of a designated PL, usually within friendly artillery range, and conducts reconnaissance and screening operations. The main guard force does not displace behind the designated PL without the permission of the main body commander. A PL designating the rear of the ARC's area is farther from the main body than the effective range of threat direct fire weapons. The ARC conducts a zone reconnaissance from the rear to the BPs or OPs, reconnoiters the BPs or OPs, and establishes a screen line. It provides reaction time for the main guard force and, consequently, the main body. The ARC determines the threat's disposition, destroys threat reconnaissance elements, and assists the main guard unit in forcing the threat to deploy. It also disrupts the threat's forced deployment and guides main body reaction forces for the counterattack. #### *Advance Guard* An advance guard for a stationary force deploys forward and defends. Once contact is made, the ARC continues to defend in sector or delay consistent with the commander’s intent. An advance guard for a moving force is offensive in nature, finding and defeating threat units along the axis of advance. The ARC usually participates as part of an advance guard providing uninterrupted movement of the protected force and prevents surprise and premature deployment of the main body. If the ARC encounters threat forces beyond its capability, it defends, continues close reconnaissance and prepares to pass elements of the main body forward. As units of the advance guard identify targets of opportunity, the ARC can expect to conduct hasty attacks to destroy or disrupt those targets. The rapid mobility of the ARC allows the advanced guard commander to quickly attack, destroy, and move through located threat forces; bypass threat forces to look deeper; or to quickly develop the situation and await the arrival of the main body. The advance guard commander may task the ARC to reconnoiter forward of ground units or screen along exposed flanks. When tasked with this mission, the ARC conducts the following tasks in addition to the critical tasks associated with a screen: * Determines the trafficability of high-speed routes within the zone. * Inspects and classify bridges, culverts, overpasses, and underpasses along high-speed routes. * Identifies all bypasses and fords able to support rapid movement of heavy equipment. * Identifies obstacles, choke points, and likely ambush areas and determines possible bypass routes. * Finds and report all enemy forces within the zone and determine size, composition, and activity. #### *Flank Guard* Flank guards are reconnaissance oriented, concentrating on threat battalion-sized avenues of approach to protect an exposed flank of the main body. In performing this mission, the ARC operates beyond the assigned zone or sector of the protected force. Normally, the ARC’s responsibility begins at the trail element of the advance guard or the lead combat element in the main body, and ends at the rear of the protected force or lead element of the rear guard. The protected force commander clarifies this responsibility as necessary. A flank guard is similar to a flank screen except that defensive positions are planned for in addition to OPs. ARCs can be integrated as part of the guard force by screening between and in front of BPs as they are established. The ARC may also be used to reconnoiter the area between the guard force and main body, maintaining contact with both elements and freeing the ground flank guard force to concentrate on its BP tasks. Figure 3-15 shows a company conducting a stationary flank guard.
#### *Rear Guard* A rear guard protects the exposed rear of a stationary main body. The critical tasks listed for the stationary flank guard apply for rear guard. Establishing the rear guard during retrograde operations may be done in two ways. The ARC may relieve other units in place along the FLOT as they move to the rear; or the ARC may establish a position in depth behind the main body and pass those forces through. ### Moving Guard Moving guard operations may be conducted to the front (advance), flank, and rear of the main body. *Advance Guard* An advance guard for a moving force is offensive in nature. When serving as the advance guard for a moving force, the ARC develops the situation to the front along specific routes or axes to prevent surprise or premature deployment of the main body. Planning is conducted as in a zone or route reconnaissance but will usually have a more lenient engagement criterion. The ARC must have artillery coverage. The main body is normally in a movement to contact. The ARC develops the threat situation by fighting to gain intelligence. The ARC is expected to plan its part of the mission the same way it would a zone reconnaissance. Primary emphasis is on early development of the threat situation in the area of the main body’s route or axis of advance. The protected force commander determines the interval maintained between the ARC advance guard and the main body. The ARC provides reconnaissance pull, enabling decisive operations to take advantage of any opportunities. The ARC gains contact by maneuvering as necessary to develop the situation and enable the ground force commander to make a decision whether to attack, defend, or delay based on METT-TC. The ARC may conduct a hasty attack to defeat or destroy threat forces, but does not normally conduct frontal assaults against prepared positions. The ARC may also attack to fix or contain a threat force if such actions are within the protected force commander’s intent and security guidance. If the ARC encounters threat forces beyond its capabilities for offensive operations, it then defends, continues reconnaissance, and facilitates deployment of the protected force. It coordinates and prepares passage of elements from the protected force forward. The ARC may also delay threat forces within the depth of its AO to avoid decisive engagement while still protecting the main body. The protected force commander may even visualize the delay as a shaping operation that protects his force, while enabling it to maneuver to an advantageous position. #### *Flank Guard* As a moving flank guard, the ARC performs the same tasks for a moving force as for a stationary force. A flank guard for a moving force advances systematically to a series of BPs or OPs parallel to the main body’s axis of advance and clears the area between its route and the main body as the main body advances. Flank guards are primarily reconnaissance oriented. During a flank guard, the ARC can be used to screen between the guard force and main body. It can also be used to screen forward of the guard force during the movement to BPs. In both situations, the ARC uses a zone reconnaissance moving to successive screen lines forward of a moving force. Figure 3-16, page 3-45, shows a company conducting a flank guard for a moving force. ### Cover A covering force accomplishes all the tasks of screening and guard forces. Additionally, a covering force operates apart from the main body to develop the situation early and deceives, disorganizes, and destroys threat forces. Unlike screening or guard forces, a covering force is tactically self-contained and capable of operating independently of the main body. The ARB participates in covering force operations as part of a larger force; the ARB cannot conduct covering operations independently. Covering force operations are not typical for an ARB. See FM 17-95 for more information on cover operations. ### Air Security Operations Area security includes reconnaissance and security of designated personnel, airfields, unit convoys, facilities, main supply routes (MSRs), forward operating bases, equipment, and critical points. An area security force neutralizes or defeats threat operations in a specified area. Area security operations focus on the threat, force being protected, or a combination of the two. This mission is used extensively in stability operations and for operations in the noncontiguous operational environment. It is also assigned around an airhead or lodgment areas following airborne, air assault, or forced entry operations. Area security may also be used to provide early warning to an isolated force that cannot tie its flanks to a friendly unit. As an area security force, the ARC performs reconnaissance, screens, and conducts CCA to protect forces within a specified area utilizing the same methods and procedures discussed earlier. The headquarters assigning the area security mission defines the area.
### Critical Tasks All-around security during operations is essential; however, commanders balance the level of security measures with the type and level of threat posed in the specific area. Depending of the mission, the ARC executes the following critical tasks within its capabilities to include— * Maintain surveillance of all avenues of approach larger than a designated size into the AO. * Maintain contact with threat or belligerent forces, not allowing threat ground elements to enter or exit the AO undetected and unreported. z Defend the protected force or facility. * Deter or destroy enemy forces conducting mortar, rocket, or ambush attacks. * Protect MSRs and convoys. * Prevent threat forces from acting against friendly forces in adjacent or noncontiguous AOs. * Support presence operations including show of force demonstrations. * React to civil disturbances. ### Cordon and Search Cordon and search is executed against a specific target within a given area. Frequently directed by higher headquarters or the ground component commander, it utilizes both air and ground forces to recon and secure an objective for search. The ground force establishes inner and outer cordon, referred to as rings, along with traffic control points (TCPs) and blocking positions on avenues of approach. As applied to the cordon and search mission, the ARC provides essential capabilities to the ground force conducting the operation. The aircraft normally conduct route reconnaissance in support of ground movement to the objective with an initial observation and assessment of the situation within each objective. The ARC ensures initial observations are focused according to specific intelligence requirements. These observations might be the situation around the target building, location of a specific vehicle, or detection of anything attempting to exit the objective prior to establishment of the outer cordon. Aircraft utilize onboard sensors/video to gather requested information without alerting the search area. Once the ground cordon is set, ARC teams provide area security outside the inner cordon and mostly beyond the outer cordon. This task keeps the ARC teams focused “out,” away from the objective searching for elements attempting to influence the ground commander’s mission. The ground commander can accept risk beyond the outer cordon refocusing ARC teams “in,” searching for snipers or other observation tasks inside the inner cordon and objective area. Once inner situations reach resolution, aircrews may return to the initial area security mission (focus out). If more than one team is in support of the cordon and search, then both tasks are executed simultaneously (figure 3-17). Once the ground element completes the mission within the objective, the ARC conducts route reconnaissance and/or convoy security along the egress route.
### Premission Planning To enhance support of the ground force commander, the ARC must fully understand the ground maneuver plan. The ARC uses a cordon and search checklist to ensure all pertinent information is provided for the mission. The ground mission commander must provide the ARC the following planning information: * Mission objective (specific area, structure, or entity). * Objective size and location (if known) with sketch. * Imagery of objective area (if available). * Target list worksheet. * No fire areas (NFAs)/restricted fire areas (RFAs). * Clearance of fires procedures. * ROE. * Attack reconnaissance mission focus during cordon and search phases. * Ground commander PIR. * Control measures and graphics (includes common numbering system of all buildings and key structures). Positions of road blocks, support positions, and outer cordon should be included. * Friendly marking techniques. * PR plan. * Mission timeline and expected duration. * C2 plan (frequencies and call signs). * Number and type of vehicles used in ground element. The aviation commander in turn relays to the ground commander— * Available assets, including ordnance available. * Time windows of aviation coverage. * Necessary gaps for rearm/refuel, maintenance, and fighter management. All cordon and search missions are not planned. The ARC may receive a FRAGO to conduct a hasty cordon and search. The initial team check-in with ground elements sets the tone for the success of the mission. The attack reconnaissance teams transmit the following minimal essential information to the ground commander— * Call signs. * Total number of aircraft. * Current location and ETA. * Ordnance available. * Available time on station (initial fuel status and necessary gaps for rearm/refuel). The ground commander should immediately provide the aircrews with a current SITREP along with any critical updates or changes to the initial plan (if a preplanned mission). ### Route Security The ARC prevents a threat from attacking, destroying, seizing, containing, impeding, or harassing traffic along a specified route. They also prevent the threat from interdicting traffic by emplacing obstacles on or destroying portions of the route. Tasks are normally independently executed but mutually supportive. Unless the higher or area commander directs otherwise, the ARC executes critical tasks within its capabilities and limitations to include— * Conduct continuous reconnaissance on and to the flanks of the route. * Establish overwatch around choke points or critical points such as bridges, defiles, intersections, and roadway fills. * Establish OPs along the route and lateral routes to monitor civilian traffic entering or traveling on the route. Instead of static OPs, teams may move continuously along the route to maintain observation. * Conduct reconnaissance along the route to search for suspected threat positions. * Report movement of refugees or dislocated civilians. The ARC conducts route reconnaissance at irregular intervals to avoid developing a pattern the threat may exploit. Teams reconnoiter the route to include a zone reconnaissance to either flank. Teamsmay reconnoiter in advance of ground forces or assist in screening the flanks. Planning factors and critical tasks remain the same as with a route reconnaissance. ### Convoy Security The purpose of this operation is to safeguard convoys by locating enemy forces before they can attack the convoy. The SWT conducts CCA to suppress, neutralize, or destroy ambushing enemy forces. Often the mere presence of a SWT will prevent the enemy from attacking a convoy. The SWT determines the maximum lateral distance from the route to be cleared based on enemy weapons range. The two basic methods for conducting convoy security are detached and attached. #### *Detached* The purpose of detached escort is to provide the ground convoy commander with real time SA of the route with sufficient time and maneuver space for him to make decisions. During detached escort the SWT is not anchored to the ground convoy, rather they conduct reconnaissance ahead of the convoy, and are focused on finding any enemy forces that can attack or influence the convoy route. The amount of time that the SWT precedes the convoy along the route is METT-TC dependent but should not leave sufficient time to allow the enemy to set up positions in previously cleared areas. The SWT searches for ambush sites, IEDs and triggermen, and report on route trafficability and bypass capability. In urban environments this can include traffic jams, road debris, and personnel on rooftops. While the detached escort may provide early warning to the convoy commander, its major disadvantages are lack of deterrence and inability to provide immediate firepower to the convoy. #### *Attached* The primary purpose of the attached escort is to deter enemy attack and provide immediate CCA support if the convoy is engaged. The SWT maintains freedom to maneuver but generally flies within LOS of the convoy. Convoy security operations involve the lead aircraft or team conducting route reconnaissance in front of the convoy and the trail aircraft or team conducting security for the convoy. The purpose of the operation is to provide early warning to the convoy commander of approaching threat forces or possible ambush sites and conduct CCAs in support of the convoy commander. The convoy is escorted from the start point to the RP and reports to its higher headquarters upon the completion of the mission. Figure 3-18 and figure 3-19, illustrate two examples of a SWT performing a convoy security.
{% hint style="info" %} This technique is the basic method for a SWT or section conducting convoy security and should be modified as necessary to provide maximum security and SWT survivability. Lead flies up to 1 kilometer ahead of the convoy to provide early warning of enemy or obstacles. The trail team member flies behind or over the convoy to provide security, facilitate C2, and maintain overwatch of the forward team member. Each team member’s flight path is based on METT-TC (including convoy speed, terrain, and expected threat). Advantages of this technique include freedom of maneuver, unpredictability, and, to a limited extent, the early warning capabilities of the detached escort. The primary disadvantage is the increased vulnerability of the SWT based on the inability to provide continuous mutual overwatch. {% endhint %}
{% hint style="info" %} When utilizing this technique each team member flies continuous racetrack patterns on opposite sides of the route. The distance flown from the route and the convoy is METT-TC dependent. Patterns are flown so that the SWT maintains continuous LOS with each other. This technique provides increased deterrence from enemy attack against the SWT in addition to the convoy. Primary disadvantages are reduced freedom of movement and increased predictability. {% endhint %} Based on planning and/or coordination time available, the ground mission commander must provide the ARC with the following planning information: * Call signs and frequencies. * Convoy route (designation, limits, alternate routes, and time of day to be used). * Composition and disposition of convoy (number and type of vehicles, crew-served weapons available). * Actions on contact (what the convoy will do if ambushed). * Graphic control measures. * Ground commanders scheme of maneuver with task and purpose. * Provide a SITREP when the teams arrive on station, to include— * Current situation. „ * Threat forces to include paramilitary and criminal organizations. * Threat trends and recent activities. * Potential ambush sites. * Civilian traffic to include refugees and potential congested areas. * Communications to include visual signals. The ARC commander, in turn, provides the ground commander with the following information: * Available assets (number of aircraft and ordinance available). * Time windows of aviation coverage. * Necessary gaps for rearm/refuel, maintenance, and crew rest. * Determines critical areas; such as danger areas, defiles, choke points, PLs. * Identify secondary routes and bypasses to the convoy commander if necessary. * Assist convoy commander in maintaining C2 of the convoy (rate of march, interval, security, and communications). ### Aerial Escort Aerial escort missions are flown to protect helicopters conducting air assault, MEDEVAC/CASEVAC, or air movement missions. Escorted formations may range from a single aircraft to a large air assault formation. The purpose of this mission for the SWT is to protect the escorted formation by locating the enemy before they can affect the flight or by deterring enemy fire. If the escorted flight is engaged the SWT must react quickly to destroy, neutralize, or suppress the enemy before effective fire can be directed against escorted aircraft. Upon reaching the objective area, the SWT immediately transitions to area security operations. There are two basic aerial escort techniques—detached and attached. #### *Detached* Detached escort involves flying air route reconnaissance ahead of the escorted aircraft. The goal is to locate all enemy forces along the route. For air assault security, the SWT task is to locate all enemy forces that can influence the PZ, route, LZ, and objective area. Once located the enemy can be engaged or reported and bypassed according to METT-TC. The position of the enemy is passed to the escorted formation to facilitate a change in mission timeline or flight route as necessary. If the escorted formation is already on the route the AMC must decide to hold along the route, continue an alternate route, or return to base. The gap between the SWT and the escorted formation is primarily a function of the time required by the SWT to conduct reconnaissance along the route. The complexity of the terrain, amount of concealment available for the enemy, speed of the escorted formation, and SWT station time are all factors in determining route reconnaissance time. The time between flights should be keep to a minimum to prevent the enemy from establishing positions along previously reconnoitered portions of the route. The primary advantage of the detached escort is additional freedom of movement and time available for the SWT to locate enemy along the route. The major disadvantage of this technique is a lack of deterrence or ability to provide immediate firepower in response to threats against the escorted formation. Other disadvantages are communication problems that may arise between the SWT and the escorted formation due to distance and/or terrain and loosing the element of surprise. The detached escort is best employed against a route/threat combination where personnel and equipment can be readily distinguished as enemy. Unconventional enemy forces along the route, especially in urban environments, may be difficult or impossible for the detached escort to locate and the SWT’s presence along the route may tip off the enemy to the follow-on formation. In any case, lack of enemy contact does not ensure the absence of enemy along the route. #### *Attached* Attached escort involves the SWT flying with the escorted formation as a single flight. The primary purpose of the attached escort is to deter enemy fire or conduct hasty attack in reaction to enemy contact or engagement. The primary position for the SWT is to the rear of the escorted formation. This allows the SWT to scan the flanks of the formation and provide immediate suppressive fire if necessary. If available a second SWT should fly in the front of the formation to locate threats and provide additional deterrence. If necessary according to METT-TC, a single SWT may split up to fly in the front and rear of the supported formation; however this is not the preferred technique because it prevents the SWT from providing mutual support. While the SWT AMC is free to configure and maneuver his team as necessary to accomplish the mission, the standard escort formation for a single SWT is the “inverted Y” formation (figure 3-20). The SWT flies a combat spread formation off of the last aircraft in the escorted formation. Each escort aircraft is primarily responsible for scanning forward and on the flank of its side of the escorted formation.
Reaction to enemy contact is METT-TC dependent. The aircraft on the same side as the enemy fire normally assumes tactical lead to conduct BCMs and initiate the attack. When supporting VIP missions, the SWT team leader should be briefed on the location of the principle and maneuvers his to team to provide maximum security for that aircraft. The primary responsibility is to protect the flight (or principle) rather than becoming decisively engaged. However, the SWT should make every effort to destroy the enemy force when it can do so and still remain in a position to complete the primary mission. This is especially true in counterinsurgency operations. Each engagement that the enemy survives, successful or not, may serve to bolster support for their cause and further develop enemy TTPs. Mission planning should include the SWT and escorted formation conducting a face to face air mission brief. The briefing covers topics including formation, communication plan, aircraft lighting and NVDs, contingencies, actions on contact, and rally procedures. Possible fratricide from door gunner fire on the SWT should be briefed. Formation airspeed is another important planning factor especially during high altitude operations. The airspeed should be slow enough to allow the SWT freedom to maneuver, orient on suspected threats, and maintain position near the flight without exceeding operating limits. When supported by the OH-58D the only choice for the escorted formation is to fly a reduced airspeed or select the detached escort. The primary advantage of the attached escort is the combination of deterrence and ability to provide immediate suppressive fires. The primary disadvantage is the reactive rather than proactive nature of the SWT’s actions. The attached escort is equally applicable against conventional and unconventional forces. #### *Combined* The combined escort is a combination of the detached and attached escort techniques. The primary advantage is the increased security and combat power. The primary disadvantages are complexity of planning and coordination and the amount of SWT assets needed to perform the mission. ### Air Assault Security The ARC integrates into the scheme of maneuver for the conduct of reconnaissance, security, or overwatch operations during all phases of the air assault and/or air movement. The successful execution of the operation is based upon a careful analysis of the factors of METT-TC and a detailed, precise, reverse planning sequence. Planning begins with the ground tactical plan and works backwards to the staging plan as indicated in figure 3-21. Reverse planning is imperative, as each successive planning step impacts the phase that precedes it. The landing plan, for example, helps air assault planners determine the sequence and composition of lifts during the air movement phase. ARC aircrews should review the air assault landing plan for discussion and decision on the best schemes of maneuver to optimize lift asset protection.
*Staging Plan* The ARC may conduct PZ reconnaissance and screening operations to provide early warning and limited security while friendly companies form on or near the PZs. If threat forces are close by or contact is likely, the ARC conducts area security and CCA with ground maneuver forces to increase its ability to repel threat forces. #### *Loading Plan* The ARC conducts PZ reconnaissance before the arrival of assault helicopters. Once the PZ is cleared, the ARC may screen a vulnerable flank or likely avenues of approach. Table 3-4 provides examples of PZ markings for security elements to reference.
#### *Air Movement Plan* A SWT may precede the air assault element along the air route by performing a detached escort followed by area reconnaissance of the LZs and the objective, depending on the factors of METT-TC. Along the route, they locate any previously unknown enemy AD weapons and radar, and suppress those systems or develop a bypass route for the air assault element. ARC elements may also provide pertinent information on threats to flight, including natural and manmade obstacles. Depending on the threat, teams may be tasked with performing an attached escort during the air movement phase. ARC elements can also provide early warning of the threat’s approach and can engage the threat with organic weapon systems or indirect fires. They may also be assigned responsibility for coordinating the recovery of downed aircrews with other elements of the TF. #### *Landing Plan* The ARC conducts area reconnaissance of the objective area prior to the assault landing and then transitions to area security and CCA as needed. During low threat scenarios when surprise is paramount, the SWT arrives on the objective to coincide with the sound of the approaching assault aircraft (30 to 180 seconds out). This technique can be utilized by prior coordination and timing or from the attached escort formation (figure 3-22). The SWT’s primary focus when utilizing this technique is locating and/or destroying enemy personnel attempting to leave the objective area.
A SWT gives final go/no go for landing in the LZ based on conditions and, most importantly, enemy situation. The SWT must ensure they are deconflicted with the assault elements and are in position to provide covering fires. The SWT may also (METT-TC dependant) drop aids, such as chemical lights, to mark landing sites. #### *Ground Tactical Plan* As the ground force moves forward and seizes its objective, the ARC may again be tasked to conduct reconnaissance, security, and attack operations. ARC teams can rapidly reconnoiter the ground route to the objective as well as the objective itself from standoff ranges. The ARC screens the ground force’s movement and provides CCA on the objective. The company also provides overwatch during the extraction of ground elements. ### Fire Support FS is an important consideration the ARC must take into account during all phases of the air assault. Planned fires along the route of flight protect aircraft against known or suspected enemy positions. These fires may be intense and of a duration that destroys or suppresses enemy forces but does not interfere with aircraft as they fly past specific locations. They are planned on areas and fired on a time schedule or on call. Fire plans cover PZs, LZs, flight routes, and suspected enemy avenues of approach to LZs. FS plans include lethal and nonlethal J-SEAD, CAS, and smoke. The ARC commander works with the TF to ensure the friendly FS elements do not use ordnance that obscures aircrew vision, especially during NVD missions. *** ## Time and Space Considerations for Reconnaissance/Security Missions Reconnaissance and security missions require detailed planning which includes calculating the area an ARC can screen or reconnoiter. The size of the area depends on METT-TC, mission duration, and aircraft/aircrew availability. While every mission and situation is different, this section discusses the general methods of calculating this area of coverage and screen line planning. With modification, the method applies to other reconnaissance and security missions by ground or other assets like UAS. The area a company can screen extends from a width of 3 to 5 kilometers (what a single air- reconnaissance team can see from one OP) to a maximum of 30 kilometers. Under the optimum conditions of wide-open terrain, excellent visibility, and all available aircraft screening and rotating through the FARP, a company can screen along 30 kilometers for 8 to 12 hours. However, wide-open terrain and good visibility are not the norm, and lightly-armed attack reconnaissance aircraft often require the commitment of at least two of six available helicopters as a reserve to destroy or repel enemy reconnaissance teams. A series of aircraft teams, rather than the entire unit, conduct reconnaissance and security missions in several NAIs over a wide geographic area. Teams may not have a well-developed picture of the enemy situation before initiating the mission. Ammunition loads and weapons mix are determined by METT-TC. The team also uses artillery to help develop the situation and discover the enemy's disposition. As a general rule, a company screens with one team of two aircraft on the screen line; one team of two aircraft moving to, in, and from the FARP; and two aircraft in reserve. This gives the commander the flexibility to reinforce the screen line with an additional team if necessary. With this force disposition and the optimum conditions of wide-open terrain and excellent visibility, the ARC can cover 15 kilometers. The area screened could be as small as the area observed from a single OP (3 to 5 kilometers). *** ## Screening Planning Examples (8-12 Hours) Figure 3-23 depicts a single air-reconnaissance team screening from OP 2. The terrain is constricted and the avenue of approach follows a valley. The standoff area is about 3 kilometers and the observable area is 5 kilometers. The next avenue of approach is in the next valley, 10 kilometers away. Concealed air route availability prevents the air-reconnaissance team from moving to the next valley and back again before the enemy can pass through the observable area. This requires the air-reconnaissance team to maintain continuous observation from OP 2. Because it is mountainous terrain and the aircraft munitions load is too small to repel expected enemy reconnaissance forces, a rapid reaction team is on standby to repel or destroy enemy reconnaissance forces. Team 1 observes while team 2 moves to, in, and from the FARP. Team 3 positions itself where it can react to any enemy force observations. Alternate kill zones are selected south of the observed area in case the enemy moves faster than expected through the observable area.
Figure 3-24, reflects two teams screening along OPs 1 to 4. The open terrain allows excellent standoff and observable areas. The standoff area is about 3 kilometers and the observable area is about 5 kilometers along each avenue of approach. The distance between OPs is 15 kilometers. An attack reconnaissance team from the squadron provides the reserve. The air-reconnaissance teams rotate through the screen areas and FARP. Team A moves to the area defined by OPs 1 and 2, team B moves to the area defined by OPs 3 and 4. They observe for 40 minutes and then team A is relieved by team C, team B is relieved by team A, and team B moves to the FARP. This rotation continues until the ART is relieved by another ground or air unit, contact is made, the mission is terminated, or until crew endurance requires the ART to move to the AA.
*** ## Screen Planning Calculations (8-12 Hours) The observable area and enemy’s assumed movement speeds determine friendly forces observation criteria for selected OPs. Air speed and OP occupation times determine the time it will take to move between OPs and into position. Each requires knowledge of the enemy, careful planning, and adherence to schedules. The challenge is to achieve the optimum screen line size that can be adequately observed. In the scenario depicted in figure 3-24, teams A, B, and C rotate between OPs 1 and 2, OPs 3 and 4, and the FARP. Each team will man the screen line for a total of 55 minutes while the third team travels to the FARP (13 minutes), rearms and refuels (14 minutes), returns to the OP (13 minutes), and teams execute BHO/rotation (15 minutes). Each team can cover two OPs, because each team can travel from its first OP to the second, observe, and then return to the first OP before the enemy can traverse the observable area. Those calculations are as follows: * An enemy force moving 20 kilometers per hour will require 15 minutes to traverse the observable area. * The air-reconnaissance team requires about seven to eight minutes at 60 knots to travel between each OP and about one to five minutes moving into the OP, unmasking, observing, masking, and moving out of the OP, providing a two minute time buffer for the air-reconnaissance team to move between OPs. In the scenario depicted in figure 3-24, a reaction force is required and the time required to travel between OPs is too long to cover more than one at a time, requiring the entire reconnaissance team to cover that single approach. The formula for planning times is outlined in figure 3-25. The formula for planning ground unit speed is in figure 3-26.
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