ATP-5-0-2-1 Staff Reference Guide Volume 1 Download
Page 222 of 440
Appendix C 206 ATP 5-0.2-1 07 December 2020 RELIEF IN PLACE C-72. A relief in place is an operation in which, by direction of higher authority, all or part of a unit is replaced in an area by the incoming unit and the responsibilities of the replaced elements for the mission and the assigned zone of operations are transferred to the incoming unit (JP 3-07.3). Commanders conduct a relief in place (RIP) as part of a larger operation, primarily to maintain the combat effectiveness of committed units. The higher echelon headquarters directs when and where to conduct a RIP and it establishes the appropriate control measures. Normally, during the conduct of large-scale combat operations, the unit being relieved (the outgoing unit) is defending. However, a relief may set the stage for resuming offensive operations, introducing a new unit into combat, or freeing the relieved unit for other tasks, such as decontamination, reconstitution, routine rest, resupply, maintenance, specialized training, or redeployment. Units normally are relieved at night or during periods of limited visibility. C-73. Three techniques for conducting a RIP are sequentially, staggered, or simultaneously: A sequential relief occurs when each element in the relieved unit is relieved in succession, from one flank to the other, front to rear, rear to front, or center outwards. A staggered relief occurs when the commander relieves each element in a sequence determined by the tactical situation, not its geographical orientation. The enemy situation and the proximity of each battle position to the enemy determine the procedure. Generally, if the enemy is likely to attack, those areas unlikely to receive the majority of contact will be relieved first. In this way, the main defensive positions remain strong, crewed by Soldiers who know the terrain and the defensive plan. A simultaneous relief occurs when all elements are relieved at the same time. It takes the least time to execute, but is more easily detected by the enemy. PLANNING A RELIEF IN PLACE C-74. Upon receipt of the order to conduct a RIP, the following events should occur: The incoming unit commander and staff coordinate in person with the outgoing unit commander and staff at their CP. If required, the incoming unit moves to an assembly area to the rear of the outgoing unit. The incoming unit's commander and staff, after coordinating with the outgoing unit, complete their command and staff actions at the CP of the outgoing unit. If time is available and the situation permits, incoming unit leaders can conduct a reconnaissance at this time. The incoming unit commander then issues orders. Upon completion of the order, the incoming unit command group collocates their CP with the outgoing CP. The incoming unit moves subordinate units from assembly areas to positions, as prescribed in the order. C-75. The two units conducting RIP must agree on procedures for accomplishing the following items: Sequence and technique of relief (if not specified by the headquarters ordering the relief). Both commanders should consider the following when picking a sequence and technique: Subsequent mission of the unit conducting the relief. Strength and combat efficiency of the unit presently in the defensive area. Capability of the enemy to detect and react against the relief. Characteristics of the AO. Need to vary the pattern of relief. Size and type of elements involved in the relief. When to pass responsibility for the fight to the incoming unit. Reconnaissance. Security. Routes to use. Location of AAs. Integrated deception plan.