FM/BG-1525.V1.01 - Objective box
What an Objective Box Is
An Objective Box (OB) is a clearly defined area representing the full extent of an objective, such as an entire town, village, or urban complex.
- It defines the boundaries of the objective.
- It ensures all units understand the area requiring clearance.
- Within the OB, the area can be subdivided into smaller sectors for individual squads or teams.
Best Practices
- Anchor to Terrain
- Use roads, rivers, canals, ridgelines, or urban landmarks to mark the OB’s corners.
- Clearly recognizable features make coordination and orientation easier.
- Size Appropriately
- Cover the entire objective to prevent missed areas.
- Avoid making it so large that it becomes unmanageable for assigned forces.
- Subdivide into Sectors
- As per FM/BG-1524 - Sectors
- Coordinate Support
- Use the OB as a reference for fire support, CAS, and logistics.
- Synchronized actions are easier when all elements reference the same boundaries.
Communication
Reference the OB in orders and reports:
- “1st Platoon clearing Objective Box Alpha, Sector A2.”
- “All elements secure Objective Box Bravo as per orders.”
Above: Example objective box for a town objective
Last major change:
Initial Version
