Attack

An attack is a primary offensive task that destroys or defeats enemy forces, seizes and secures terrain, or both. When the Infantry leader decides to attack, or the opportunity to attack occurs during combat operations, the execution of an attack masses the effects of overwhelming combat power against selected portions of the enemy force with a tempo and intensity that cannot be matched by the enemy. The resulting combat should not be a contest between near equals. Attackers are determined to seek decisions on the ground of their choosing through the deliberate synchronization and employment of the combined arms team.

MOVING FROM THE ASSEMBLY AREA TO THE LINE OF DEPARTURE

The tactical situation and order in which the leader wants his subordinate units to arrive at their attack positions govern the march formation.

MANEUVERING FROM THE LINE OF DEPARTURE TO THE PROBABLE LINEOF DEPLOYMENT

Units move rapidly through their attack positions and across the LD, which should be controlled by friendly forces. The leader considers METT-TC when choosing the combat formation which best balances firepower, tempo, security, and control.

ACTIONS AT THE PROBABLE LINE OF DEPLOYMENT,ASSAULT POSITION

The attacking unit splits into one or more assault and support forces as it reaches the PLD, if not already accomplished. All forces supporting the assault should be set in their support-by-fire position before the assault force crosses the LD. The assault force maneuvers against or around the enemy to take advantage of support force’s efforts to suppress targeted enemy positions.

CONDUCTING THE BREACH

As necessary, the platoon conducts a combined arms breach. The preferred method of fighting through a defended obstacle is to employ an in-stride breach. However, the leader must be prepared to conduct a deliberate breach.

ASSAULTING THE OBJECTIVE

The leader employs all means of direct and indirect fire support to destroy and to suppress the enemy, and to sustain the momentum of attack. Attacking units move as quickly as possible onto and through the objective. Depending on the size and preparation of enemy forces, it may be necessary to isolate and destroy portions of the enemy in sequence.

CONSOLIDATING ON THE OBJECTIVE

Immediately after an assault, the attacking unit seeks to exploit its success. It may be necessary, though, to consolidate its gains. Consolidation can vary from repositioning force and security elements on the objective, to reorganization the attacking force, to the organization and detailed improvement of the position for defensive missions.

TRANSITION

After seizing the objective, the unit typically transitions to some other type of task. This operation could be the site exploitation or pursuit, or perhaps a defense. Transitions (through branches and sequels) are addressed and planned prior to undertaking the offensive task.