Week 2
Learning Objectives
By the end of the lesson, Cadet Leaders will be able to:
(a) Explain the use of Field Signals in the military.
(b) Apply the various types of Field Signals used by soldiers in given scenarios.
(c) Execute the field signals with confidence.
Introduction to Field Signals
Field signals are utilised by army troops as a means of communication in the field and in a battlefield. This is essential to keep any voice conversation to a minimum in order to preserve secrecy and silence when approaching the enemy.
Field signals, in the form of hand and arm signals are one of the most common forms of communication used by commanders to maintain command and control of his/her section/platoon/company on patrol missions in order to observe noise discipline so that the soldiers remain undetected, in combination with cover and concealment in form of camouflage. Another scenario will be during battles whereby the use of voice is either impractical or impossible.
As these signals require line of sight, soldiers maintain tactical distance on two ends of a path to transmit messages rapidly over short distances.
Like all other types of signals, visual signals do have their downfalls and limitations. The first limitation one can see is the range and reliability. Within this limitation, visual communication can become greatly disrupted during periods of poor visibility or when the terrain restricts clear observation.
Food for thought: What does this two pictures tell you about the importance of IFC?
General Rules
All signals should be clear and leave no room for confusion.
Use the hand that will provide the most effective signal. The other hand never leaves the weapon.
Responsibility of every man to watch for the correct signals being passed forward or back.
Do not take your eyes off from the enemy while passing signals.
Field signals should be used realistically. Do not be a slave to them.
Field signals should be definite but not vigorous. Vigorous movement may often give away your position.
Types of field signals
Enemy Ahead.mp4Enemy ahead
To signal that you have seen enemy ahead, hold one arm out to the side, fist clenched and thumb pointed down. This is just a sign that someone has been sighted; it isn’t a command to open fire.
Friendly Ahead.mp4Friendly ahead
Likewise, To signal that you have seen friendly ahead, hold one arm out to the side, fist clenched and thumb pointed up.
Take Cover.mp4Take cover
After spotting enemy ahead, it is likely to signal your section to take cover to avoid being spotted. Make sure the movement is sharp and swift.
Food for thought: Why do you think the movement has to be sharp and swift?
Double Up.mp4Double up
Make sure movement is swift and fast and strong, to indicate the urgency of the matter.
Halt.mp4Halt
Make sure your fist is clearly visible to your section behind.
Food for thought: When do you think halt is used?
Application of field signals
Background story: You are the section commander of Bravo Company, Platoon 2, Section 3. You are leading a section of 6 men on a field mission to re-capture the ammunition depot from the enemy troop. It is deep-seated in the heart of the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve...
Scenario A
While you and your men are moving towards your next navigation point, you saw a boy herding his cows at a distance. This is the only way to your destination, but you need to avoid detection. Which field signal will you use and why? (2marks)
Scenario B
You and your men manage to find an alternate route into the forest. As all of you advance with caution, you spot section 4 ahead. Which field signal will you use and why? (2marks)
Scenario C
After forming up with section 4, you lead the group of men to the ammunition depot. Upon reaching, you spot the enemy troop guarding around the depot. Which combinations of field signals will you use to avoid being spotted and re-capture the depot smoothly? Please elaborate with explanations. (4marks)
After applying the right field signals, your troop advances, neutralises the enemies and re-captures the depot successfully. Mission Accomplished!
Task (25 marks)
Kindly provide your inputs of the three above-mentioned scenario and submit to your Teacher Officer in Charge. He/She will provide feedback to your inputs. (8 marks)
You are also expected to record yourself performing and teaching some field signals.
2. (i) Share the video link with your Teacher-Officers and platoon mates. (10 marks)
(ii) Discuss with your platoon mates the merits/points of improvement of one another's Method of Instruction (MOI). Pen down your inputs on your buddy's performance and share it with your Teacher-Officer. (7 marks)