FM-3-81 Maneuver Enhancement Brigade Download
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Synchronize and Coordinate Protection 09 November 2021 FM 3-81 A-5 and preserve combat power during training and deployment tasks that are associated with Army sustainable readiness requirements that are in support of unified land operations. A-10. Army protection capabilities support operations to prevent or deter interference during mobilization and prevent or mitigate attacks during the transit of ARFOR and cargo, along movement routes, and at initial staging areas and subsequent AAs where uncertain threat conditions require a delicate balance between protection and building combat power. A-11. At the division level and higher, the integration of the protection warfighting function and tasks is conducted by a designated protection cell and the chief of protection. At brigade level and below, the integration occurs more informally with the designation of a protection coordinator from the brigade staff or as an integrating staff function assigned to a senior leader. The protection coordinators participate in various forums to facilitate the continuous integration of protection tasks into the operations process. This occurs through protection working groups, staff planning teams, and staffs conducting integrating processes. A-12. During large-scale combat, commanders and staffs deliberately plan and integrate protection capabilities to protect the force, preserve combat power, reduce risk, mitigate identified vulnerabilities, and act on opportunity. Figure A-1 shows the integration and synchronization of protection tasks in support of a gap crossing, movement corridor, and support area. Commanders also develop a scheme of protection for the transition of each phase of an operation or major activity. Transitions mark a change of focus between phases or between the ongoing operation and execution of a branch or sequel. Shifting protection priorities between offensive, defensive, and stability tasks also involves a transition. Transitions require planning and preparation well before their execution so that a force can maintain the momentum and tempo of operations. A force is vulnerable during transitions. Commanders and staffs also identify potential threats and hazards during planning and identify protection priorities during the transition and follow-on operations. Figure A-1. Protection in support of large-scale combat operations