Group
Convoy speed must balance security and cohesion. Excessive spacing weakens mutual support and increases vulnerability. The lead vehicle must monitor spacing and adjust speed as needed. Drivers and the convoy commander must stay in communication to report speed, spacing, and observation sectors.
Speed increases convoy survivability by reducing enemy engagement windows (e.g., RPGs, IEDs). However, overextending the convoy can lead to loss of support and leave vehicles vulnerable to concentrated enemy fire. The Convoy Commander is responsible for balancing this risk.
If the lead vehicle must brake suddenly, the driver must announce “BRAKING, BRAKING, BRAKING” over comms to prevent collisions.
Gunners must maintain 360° security at all times. The lead vehicle is responsible for observing to the front, the rear vehicle covers the rear, and interior vehicles alternate left and right to ensure continuous coverage in all directions. Gunners should cover their assigned sectors and resist the urge to fixate on one threat direction.
Vehicles must maintain a spacing of 20 to 100 meters, adjusted for terrain and visibility. This interval must be preserved while moving, turning, or stopping to reduce vulnerability to explosives and concentrated enemy fire.
Above: Visual Representation of Spacing and Gunner Arcs
Convoy routes must be planned in advance, with known objectives and alternate routes.
Avoid urban routes when possible due to high ambush risk. Forested or rocky terrain may also be dangerous but is sometimes unavoidable—move with heightened caution. Commanders should always plan primary and alternate routes.