FM-3-81 Maneuver Enhancement Brigade Download
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09 November 2021 FM 3-81 2-1 Chapter 2 Organic and Task-Organized Structure The MEB is a multifunctional command and control headquarters that is organized to perform support area operations for Army divisions and corps. The MEB may include a mix of maneuver, engineer, military police, CBRN, CA, EOD, and other capabilities. The number and type of organizations that are task-organized to a MEB are driven by mission requirements. Peacetime task organization may vary due to stationing and the types of units that are collocated under the MEB for command and control. This chapter discusses the capabilities of units that are organic to the MEB and the capabilities of organizations that are task-organized based on mission requirements. SECTION I – ORGANIC STRUCTURE 2-1. The MEB is designed to perform support area operations in support of the JSA, division, or corps support area. The brigade can also conduct combat operations up to the level of a maneuver battalion when task-organized with maneuver forces. The MEB is an economy of force command and control headquarters designed to provide command and control of forces from multiple branches. The MEB requires tailoring or task organization for every mission that it performs. When assigned or attached in support of a theater- specific operation, operation order (OPORD), operation plan (OPLAN), or concept plan, the supported headquarters (combatant command, JTF, theater Army corps or division) and MEB staff will conduct a mission analysis to determine capabilities, recommend task organization, and command and support the relationships that are necessary to accomplish the mission. The MEB span of control should not exceed seven battalions for an extended period of time. 2-2. Beyond its two organic units (HSC and brigade signal company), the MEB has no fixed structure (see figure 2-1). It is only a headquarters element. The MEB must have battalions/companies/teams attached, OPCON, or TACON. Capability requirements should be identified early in the planning process and constantly reevaluated to ensure that the MEB is able to perform all of the specified and implied tasks that are necessary to achieve mission success. Legend: NET network SPT support Figure 2-1. MEB organic structure