FM/BG-505.V3.00 - What is bounding overwatch?
Bounding overwatch is the process of ensuring that one team is moving, whilst another is stationary and providing overwatch. When a bounding maneuver is called there are five parts described:
- The type of bounding (successive or alternate)
- The maneuver element scale (individual, buddy team, fireteam, squad),
- The direction of movement (bearing or landmark)
- (optional) The desired stop point (distance, location or number of bounds)
- Which element is moving first
E.g.:
- A squad leader calling “This is Alpha 1-0. Successive, Fireteam bounding, towards that barn, 1 move" wants one Fireteam to move as a whole element, while the other provides cover, for one bound, then stop to allow the other Fireteam to move. He does not want the Fireteams to then utilise buddy team bounding.
- A squad leader instructing teams to “Alternating, Buddy Team Bounding, North, 400m” implies that each Fireteam will move North at the same time, with one buddy team moving in each Fireteam at a time.
