Area Reconnaissance

A reconnaissance patrol collects information or confirms or disproves the accuracy of information previously gained. The intent for this type of patrol is to avoid enemy contact and accomplish its tactical task without engaging in close combat. With one exception (reconnaissance in force patrol), reconnaissance patrols always try to accomplish their mission without being detected or observed. Because detection cannot always be avoided, a reconnaissance patrol carries the necessary arms and equipment to protect itself and break contact with the enemy.

A reconnaissance patrol normally travels light, with as few personnel and as little arms, ammunition, and equipment as possible. This increases stealth and cross-country mobility in close terrain. Regardless of how the patrol is armed and equipped, the leader always plans for direct-fire contact with a hostile force. Leaders must anticipate where they may possibly be observed and control the hazard by emplacing measures to lessen their risk. If detected or unanticipated opportunities arise, reconnaissance patrols must be able to rapidly transition to combat. The three types of reconnaissance patrols normally conducted by an Infantry platoon and squad are:

• Area reconnaissance patrol.*

Area reconnaissance is a directed effort to obtain detailed information concerning the terrain or enemy activity within a prescribed area. The area may be given as a grid coordinate, an objective, on an overlay. In an area reconnaissance, the patrol uses vantage points or observation posts around the objective to observe it and surrounding area.

• Route reconnaissance patrol.

• Zone reconnaissance patrol.

*During a Cadets time in ROTC, the Area Reconnaissance Patrol is the reconnaissance mission that is used to measure leadership attributes and competencies.

Leaders use the seven fundamentals of reconnaissance to organize their patrols into two forces: a reconnaissance element, and a security element. The seven fundamentals are:

1. Ensure continuous reconnaissance.

2. Do not keep reconnaissance assets in reserve.

3. Orient on the reconnaissance objective.

4. Report information rapidly and accurately.

5. Retain freedom of maneuver.

6. Gain and maintain enemy contact.

7. Develop the situation rapidly.