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

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'120. General
CHAPTER 8
DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS, ARMORED
CAVALRY PLATOON
a. This chapter covers the preparation and planning for defensive
actions by the armored cavalry platoon.
b. The two general types of defense, mobile and position, are
discussed in FM 17-1. Regardless of the type in which the armored
cavalry platoon participates, the steps taken to organize the
defensive position and the general conduct of the defense are essentially
the same.
c. The armored cavalry platoon operating alone is limited in its
ability to conduct a prolonged defense; however, in the execution
of some missions it may be required to defend an area for a limited
time. Defense may be an assigned mission for the platoon or
may be forced by enemy action.
d. The organization of a defensive position and the conduct of
a defensive action by the armored cavalry platoon require that
the platoon leader apply the following fundamentals:
(1) Make maximum use of terrain.
(2) Provide for security.
(3) Ensure that elements of the platoon are mutually supporting.
(4) Organize the position in depth.
(5) Provide for all-round defense.
(6) Ensure that fires are coordinated.
(7) Continue to strengthen the position.
(8) Provide flexibility within the defense.
(9) Make maximum use of offensive action.
121. Employment of the Armored Cavalry Platoon in Defense
a. The armored cavalry platoon will normally participate in a
defensive action as part of a larger force. The platoon may be required
to defend alone when attacked by enemy forces, in securing
a blocking position or roadblock, or when participating in operations
conducted by a larger force on a broad front.
AGO 4088B 73