Attacking theory - UNITAF Force Manual (FM)

FM/G237 - Attacking theory

Guide

FM/BG-1106 - Isolation of the objective

Guide

Isolation prevents the enemy from reinforcing or retreating. This can be achieved through:

Positioning heavy weapons to cover likely escape routes
Pre-plotting artillery on fall-back routes
Using deception, such as leaving a gap to bait retreat

Isolation is not always perfect, but should be attempted as thoroughly as possible using recon and terrain advantage.

Guide

FM/BG-1107 - Preparatory fires

Guide

Preparation involves striking the objective with available firepower, artillery, mortars, CAS, or heavy weapons prior to the assault. Targets should be based on recon intel. Fires should ideally continue during the assault and shift just before the assaulting element reaches the objective to maximize confusion and shock.

Guide

FM/BG-1108 - Surprise as a force multiplier

Guide

Surprise can outweigh preparatory fires. A fast, violent, unexpected attack may disorganize the enemy more effectively than bombardment. The decision to prioritize surprise over preparation lies with the assault commander.

Guide

FM/BG-1109 - Flexibility in execution

Guide

No plan survives first contact. Leaders must remain flexible and ready to adapt to unexpected resistance or opportunity. Maintain the initiative by shifting tactics mid-attack when necessary.

Guide

FM/BG-1110 - Applying OCOKA in the attack

Guide

Observation & Fields of Fire

Choose support positions with visibility but avoid obvious spots
Consolidate ARs for better support-by-fire (SBF)
Identify observation posts for recon or coordination
Evaluate enemy overwatch and cover areas
Use smoke or stealth to bypass dangerous ground

Cover & Concealment

Assess enemy cover to anticipate positions
Use available micro-terrain for movement
Urban and dense terrain increases risk and slows assaults
Open terrain allows better coordination and support

Obstacles

Identify obstacles and plan how to bypass or breach them
Use satchels or AT to clear paths if needed
Expect enemy to cover obstacles—use smoke to mask approach

Key or Decisive Terrain

Seize vantage points, mission objectives, or tall structures
Expect heavier enemy presence on decisive ground
Exploit terrain to limit enemy strength or visibility

Avenues of Approach

Choose concealed approaches when possible
Identify opportunities for feints or unexpected routes
Multiple simultaneous approaches can overload enemy response
Unlikely or audacious routes may catch the enemy off-guard

Guide

FM/BG-1111 - Assault element role

Guide

The assault element closes with and destroys the enemy using fire and movement:

Use covered routes to stay concealed
Attack aggressively, maintain momentum
Leave casualties to follow-on forces to avoid stalling

Guide

FM/BG-1112 - Support element role

Guide

The support element (base of fire) enables assault by suppressing the enemy:

Provides high volume of fire, typically using crew-served weapons
Should comprise 2/3 of the force
Must shift or cease fire as assault teams close in

Guide

FM/BG-1113 - Security element role

Guide

Security elements screen the assault from external threats:

Protect flanks and rear from enemy reinforcements or counterattacks
Can be integrated into the support element
Key for maintaining operational integrity during larger attacks