ATP-5-0-2-1 Staff Reference Guide Volume 1 Download
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Offensive Tactics, Techniques, Procedures, and Considerations 07 December 2020 ATP 5-0.2-1 175 A-81. The senior commander assumes control of all encircled forces once the force realizes its encirclement. The commander informs higher command of the situation and simultaneously begins to accomplish the following tasks regardless of the subsequent mission: Reestablish a chain of command. Unity of command is essential. The commander reorganizes fragmented units and troops separated from their parent unit under another unit’s supervision. The commander establishes a clear chain of command throughout the forces. Establish a viable defense. The command quickly establishes all-around defense. It may be necessary to attack and seize ground that favors an all-around defense. The command rapidly and continuously improves fighting positions. Enemy forces may attempt to split an encircled force by penetrating its perimeter with armor-heavy forces. An energetic defense, rapid reaction by reserves, and employment of antitank weapons in depth within the encirclement can defeat such attempts. A reduction in the size of the perimeter may be necessary to maintain coherence of the defense. Establish a reserve. Use armor-heavy units as a reserve and position them centrally to take advantage of interior lines. If only mechanized infantry forces are present, designate small dismounted local reserves to react to potential penetrations while the infantry fighting vehicles serve in a similar capacity as the tanks. The difference in employment, however, is with respect to the survivability of the vehicle. Establish security elements as far forward as possible to provide early warning. Initiate vigorous patrolling immediately. Establish local security throughout the force, and strictly enforce passive security measures. Reorganize and centralize control of all artillery. Distribute artillery and mortars throughout the enclave to limit their vulnerability to counterfires. Maintain morale. Soldiers in an encirclement must not see their situation as desperate or hopeless. Commanders and leaders at all levels maintain the confidence of Soldiers by resolute action and a positive attitude. They keep Soldiers informed to suppress rumors. Centralize the control of all supplies. Strict rationing and supply economy is practiced. If friendly forces can maintain local air superiority for the operation, attempt to resupply the encircled forces from the outside by parachute drop or helicopter lift if local air superiority can be maintained for the operation. Establish a centrally-located medical facility and evacuate wounded troops if an air supply line is open. PLANNING A BREAKOUT A-82. Once the commander is aware of force encirclement, the commander turns to the intelligence officer for a quick assessment of the enemy situation. The intelligence officers of all the units within the encircled area furnish this information. In particular, the intelligence officers should attempt to identify the strengths, weaknesses, and vulnerability points of the encircling forces, and determine whether the enemy realizes it has encircled the unit. These two pieces of information drive much of the commander's decision making. A-83. The success of the operation depends considerably upon the senior commander's understanding of the higher commander's plan and intent. Specifically, if the commander is to contribute to the mission, the unit must attempt to plan operations in concert with the higher commander's operation. A-84. The forces for a breakout operation are divided into five distinct tactical groups: Rupture force. Reserve force. Main body. Rear guard. Diversionary force (if sufficient forces are available). A-85. Rupture force. The rupture force attacks, creates a gap in the enemy's weak point (if it has been identified), and holds the shoulders for the remaining forces to pass through. The rupture force must be of sufficient strength to penetrate the enemy line (typically 50% of available combat power). Initially, this