Group
Firefights are direct engagements with the enemy and the foundation of infantry combat. Understanding firefight dynamics allows units to adapt, maintain tempo, and defeat the enemy through coordinated action.
Firefights progress through four phases:
This cycle underpins nearly all infantry engagements.
Finding the enemy first gives initiative, enabling friendly forces to strike on their terms. Early detection enables surprise, superior positioning, and more effective first fire. Finding the enemy can come from a number of methods:
Fixing is achieved by suppressing and limiting enemy movement. Effective fixing requires dominant positions, volume of fire, and ideally, coordination with indirect assets. Suppression is only effective if the enemy believes exposure will result in death. Without sustained, lethal fire, the enemy may manoeuvre or return fire freely.
Before flanking, confirm:
The flanking team moves undetected to attack from a new angle. Simultaneously, the base-of-fire maintains pressure. Flank movements must be rapid, concealed, and decisive.
Once flanking forces are in position, they assault the enemy while base-of-fire shifts. Speed and violence of action are critical to overwhelming remaining resistance.
Establish security immediately
Conduct status and ACE reports
Address casualties and medical needs
Reorganize and redistribute
Prepare for the next objective
If flanking fails or is infeasible, a direct assault may be necessary. Pincer movements (simultaneous flank and front assaults) maximize shock and reduce exposure.
If manoeuvre becomes unfeasible, adopt a defensive posture:
Transition to defence is not permanent, readiness to counterattack remains key.
If the enemy cannot be flanked or defeated, disengage under cover of smoke or suppressive fire. Withdraw in bounds to prevent pursuit and reposition for advantage.