FM 17-35 ( Armored Cavalry Platoon, Troop and Squadron ) 1960

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CHAPTER 14
DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS, ARMORED CAVALRY TROOP
205. General
a. The armored cavalry troop may be required to engage in
defensive combat in the performance of normal reconnaissance
and security missions. Additionally, as an economy of force, the
troop may be required to organize the defense of a specific area,
terrain feature, or installation in accordance with the overall
plan of defense of a larger unit.
b. The troop is most effectively employed in the defense when
it is assigned reconnaissance or security missions for a larger
unit.
c. For additional discussion of small armor units in the defense,
see FM 17-1.
206. Employment of Armored Cavalry Troop in Defense
a. The armored cavalry troop may be employed in defensive
operations either alone or as part of a larger force. When part
of a defensive action by a larger unit, the troop may participate
in the mobile defense or position defense.
b. In the mobile defense, the troop is best suited for employment
with the security force because of its mobility and excellent
means of communication. It may perform a reconnaissance or
security mission for the striking force. Normally, the least desirable
employment of the troop is as part of the fixing force.
c. In the position defense, the troop may be employed with the
security forces, the forces in the battle area, or the reserve.
d. When required to defend alone, the troop will usually adopt
a perimeter defense and employ techniques common to both the
mobile and the position defense.
207. Organization of the Ground for Defense
Measures for increasing the effectiveness of defensive fires and
permitting maneuver by elements of the troop take precedence
over other actions in organizing an area for defense. The defensive
position is organized to permit delivery of a large volume of
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