Techniques and methods of movement on the battlefield. Methods of movement in battle when operating on foot. Movement on the battlefield by dashes.

2.2. Methods of movement of scouts Despite the fact that high technology has the widest application on the battlefield, the final success of the battle is decided by the human fighter... behind the equipment there is always a living person, without whom the equipment is dead. M. V. Frunze Fighters, trained

Basic techniques and methods of movement in the mountains Traveling in the mountains on foot mainly consists of ascents and descents, which requires great physical effort and time. Personnel in the mountains get tired faster, and the speed of movement decreases sharply. Counting

Confession of a Soldier Readers, as a rule, are aware of the events of the Battle of Moscow from memoirs written by commanders. As usual, such memoirs often told about the life that the memoirist would like to live. As the Polish poet and author of short stories noted

GENERAL PROVISIONS.

For successful actions on the battlefield, every serviceman must be able to quickly and correctly perform the “get down” (“to fight”) and “get up” techniques. In addition, he must know and skillfully apply methods of movement on the battlefield, which depend on the nature of the terrain, environmental conditions and the impact of enemy fire.
Movement on the battlefield can be done at an accelerated pace, running (at full height or crouching), dashing and crawling.
The movement to attack, as well as overcoming areas of terrain hidden from enemy observation and fire, is carried out at an accelerated pace or running.
Runs are used to quickly approach the enemy in open areas. The length of the run between stops depends on the terrain and enemy fire. The more open the area and the stronger the fire, the faster and shorter the dash should be.
Crawling is used to quietly approach the enemy and covertly overcome areas of terrain that have insignificant cover, uneven terrain and are under enemy observation or fire. Depending on the task received and the conditions for its implementation, crawling is performed on the prone, on all fours and on the side.
It is advisable to conduct classes on studying the techniques of “getting down” (“to fight”), “getting up” and methods of moving personnel in battle on an area of ​​terrain where there is soft ground, and training on rough terrain (tactical field). Improving skills in performing the techniques “lie down” (“to fight”), “get up”, and moving on the battlefield is carried out during classes in other subjects of study, especially tactical and fire training. Classes are held as part of the department.
Personnel must have standard weapons and wear field uniforms. The organization of classes is the same as when learning other drill techniques and actions.
Having arrived at the training site, the squad leader briefly explains the practical significance of the techniques being studied, and then begins to practice them.

PERFORMANCE OF THE TECHNIQUES “GET DOWN” (“TO FIGHT”), “STAND UP”.

It is recommended to learn these techniques in divisions into three counts. For the “do-ONE” count, you need to take an assault rifle or machine gun in your right hand (Fig. 20, a), maintaining a combat stance. In a “do-TWO” count, take a step with your right foot forward and slightly to the right, at the same time push your body forward, lower yourself onto your left knee and place your left hand on the ground in front of you, fingers to the right (Fig. 20, b).

DROPS.

The squad leader announces that, depending on the density of enemy fire and the nature of the terrain, movement can be carried out at an accelerated pace or running (at full height or crouching), as well as dashing and crawling. When moving at an accelerated pace, the speed should be 130-150 steps per minute, and when running, 165-180 steps per minute, step size 85-90 cm.
Then the squad leader proceeds to demonstrate the movement with accelerated steps and running. At the same time, he draws the students’ attention to the fact that when moving to full height and crouching, the weapon should be held in the right hand in readiness to fire.
Having completed the demonstration of movement at an accelerated pace and running, the squad leader proceeds to training the soldiers. Having opened the squad, the commander gives the command “Squad, at an accelerated pace - MARCH”. At this command, the personnel, taking the weapon in their right hand, begin to move, taking into account the terrain. If necessary, the squad leader gives commands: “WIDE STEP”, “FREQUENT STEP”, etc.
To move at a run, the squad leader gives the command “Squad, run-MARCH.” At the same time, the squad leader draws attention to the fact that the trainees, following a preliminary command, lean their bodies slightly forward, keep their arms half-bent, and move their elbows slightly back. The weapon is held in the right hand, slightly bent so that the muzzle is slightly forward.
Previously, the squad leader explains that to move in dashes, a command is given, for example: “Private Petrov, run to a separate bush - FORWARD”, and as part of a squad, the command is “Squad, in the direction of a separate tree, to the line of the road, dash - FORWARD.” Then the squad leader shows and explains how to act during dashes. (According to the preliminary command “So-and-so should run over there,” the trainees must outline the path of movement and sheltered places for respite (a hole, a hummock, etc.); according to the executive to the “Forward” command, quickly stand up, as is done with the “Stand Up” command, without placing your standing leg behind you, move it forward, simultaneously straightening the other leg, and quickly run across.The length of one run should be 20-40 steps.
When running, the weapon should be held in the most convenient way: a machine gun, a carbine and a light machine gun in one (right) hand, and a company machine gun and a grenade launcher in two hands, while the bipod of the machine gun should be folded back.
When running, your legs should be moved freely, knees forward. The higher the running tempo, the higher you should raise your knees and move your non-weapon hand more energetically. Before stopping, you need to slow down and, putting your left leg slightly forward and to the left, placing it on your heel, quickly lie down and crawl to the side on your elbows and toes for a break.
For the purpose of more purposeful training and training in moving by dashes, the squad leader selects the most suitable section of terrain for this, once again shows the technique of dashing, and then gives a command, for example: “Squad, in the direction of a wide bush, to the edge of the clearing, dash, to the right, one by one , Private Ilyin - FORWARD." At this command, the soldier quickly jumps up and quickly makes a dash. Having reached the specified point, the trainee lies down with a running start, applying himself to the terrain, crawls to the side, prepares to fire and carefully observes the enemy and the terrain.
If a trainee makes mistakes in his actions during a dash, the squad leader points this out to him and gives a command to run again. After checking the actions of all the trainees and making sure that the soldiers have mastered the technique of dashing, he begins training simultaneously with all the personnel of the squad, for which he selects a section of terrain 300 m deep. This allows the trainees to make several dashes during the training. The squad opens for 8-12 steps, and at the command “Squad - TO BATTLE”, the trainees lie down and prepare for battle. The dashes begin at the command of the commander.

COMPLEX MOVEMENT.

When training in complex movement, the choice of terrain is of great importance. At the same time, the terrain should allow you to choose a method of movement depending on the enemy’s fire. First, it is recommended to train all trainees in movement in the chosen method at the same time, and then give them the right to choose their own method of movement. This will allow students to develop independence in assessing the terrain and choosing a method of movement.
At the end of the lesson, it is recommended to hold a competition for the correct, quick and precise execution of the techniques being studied. This will once again make it possible for the squad leader to determine which elements of techniques have been mastered well by the trainees, and which elements are poorly understood and require additional training.
Here are some recommendations for training in complex movement on terrain.
Having placed the squad in a chain, the squad leader gives the appropriate commands or sets tasks, for example, to overcome the first section at an accelerated pace, the second by running, the third by dashes. Trainees, having reached the specified milestone, lie down, taking into account the terrain, and prepare for shooting. The squad leader carefully monitors the actions of the trainees. Noticing errors in actions, he orders the technique or action to be repeated. In this case, the entire squad or only those soldiers who made mistakes can be returned to their original position. During dashes, the squad leader ensures that the trainees put their weapons on safety before starting to move, make dashes quickly, and at the point of stopping for a break, lie down and crawl to the side.
When training one at a time, dashes are performed in the following order. The trainee, having made a rapid dash over a distance of 20-40 steps, lies down for a break and fire, crawls to the side (takes cover) and prepares to fire. The rest of the trainees, remaining at the starting line, carefully observe the area and outline the direction of the dash. As soon as the first student lies down, the second student immediately begins to run. Having reached the line of the first, he lies down and prepares to fire. The first student, when the second one stops, begins the next run, etc., until they reach the line specified in the command. The rest of the trainees also sequentially advance to the specified line, observing the established order.
When running in twos or in groups, two or a group of students run simultaneously at the executive command “FORWARD”.
At the line indicated in the command, the trainees remain until the new command of the squad commander, being in a chain in readiness to fire. Students can also advance to the next line by running or using one of the crawling methods. In this case, crawling can be carried out in the same sequence as dashing, only the distance of movement is assigned less, approximately within 10-20 steps. The method of transportation depends on the nature of the terrain. Let’s say that students crawl to the first line on all fours, to the second - on their bellies, and to the third - on their sides.
Thus, by changing methods, the squad leader teaches soldiers how to move on the battlefield.
Having made sure that the soldiers have mastered the technique of moving on the battlefield in various ways and have received sufficient training, the squad leader can select a new area of ​​terrain unfamiliar to the trainees, order each trainee to overcome it, choosing the method of movement independently.
At the executive command, students, using the folds of the terrain, move at full height or crouching, make rapid dashes or use one of the methods of crawling. The squad leader carefully observes the actions of the trainees, points out shortcomings and seeks to eliminate them, and at the end of the training he makes a detailed analysis.

Tactical training
Study questions:
1. Methods of movement on the battlefield.
2. Selection of shelter, movement routes and methods
movement.
3. Use of terrain and locals
items for fire protection and surveillance
behind the enemy. Choosing a shooting location.
3

Topic 3. Actions of a soldier in battle.

Responsibilities of personnel in combat

Every sergeant and soldier is obliged:

1) know the combat mission of the platoon, your squad (crew) and your mission;

2) know the organization, weapons, equipment and tactics of enemy units, especially the combat capabilities of his tanks, other armored vehicles and anti-tank weapons, their most vulnerable spots;

3) know the weapons and equipment of your unit;

4) know the size, volume, sequence and timing of the equipment of fortifications;

5) be able to quickly equip trenches and shelters, including the use of explosives, and carry out camouflage;

6) in battle, constantly monitor, detect the enemy in a timely manner and immediately report him to the commander;

7) act steadfastly and persistently on the defensive, boldly and decisively act on the offensive, destroy the enemy, especially tanks and other armored vehicles by all means and means, skillfully move on the battlefield, choose firing positions (places for shooting);

8) show courage, initiative and resourcefulness in battle, provide assistance to a comrade;

9) be physically strong and resilient, master hand-to-hand combat techniques;

10) be able to identify an air enemy and fire at his low-flying aircraft, helicopters and other air targets from small arms;

11) protect the commander in battle, in the event of his injury or death, boldly take command of the unit;

12) know methods of protection against weapons of mass destruction and precision weapons of the enemy;

13) skillfully use the terrain, personal protective equipment and protective properties;

14) overcome barriers, obstacles and contaminated zones, install and neutralize anti-tank and anti-personnel mines;

15) carry out special processing;

16) do not leave your place in battle without the commander’s permission;

17) if injured or affected by radioactive, toxic substances, biological (bacterial) agents, as well as incendiary weapons, take the necessary measures of self- and mutual assistance and continue to perform the task; if ordered, go to a medical station, take with you personal weapons and protective equipment; if it is impossible to go to the medical station, crawl into cover with a weapon and wait for the orderlies;

18) be able to prepare weapons and ammunition for combat use, quickly and deftly load clips, magazines, and belts with cartridges; monitor the consumption of ammunition and refueling of an infantry fighting vehicle, tank, promptly report to your commander about the consumption of 0.5 and 0.75 of the portable (transportable) supply of ammunition and refueling of fuel; if an infantry fighting vehicle is damaged, quickly take measures to restore it;

19) know and comply with the norms of international law of armed conflicts, laws of war.

Accommodation of crew and troops

The infantry fighting vehicle is equipped with ten seats to accommodate a combat crew consisting of a squad (vehicle) commander, a driver, a gunner-operator and seven motorized riflemen, which include: senior gunner (SS), gunner (S), machine gunner (P) , grenade launcher (G), assistant grenade launcher (PG). Available seats for platoon control personnel - 6 people: 2 per vehicle.

If the position of the vehicle commander is taken by a senior commander, the squad or platoon commander is located in the troop compartment of the vehicle.

Management department. The control compartment is located in the bow of the machine body. It houses mechanic jobs - driver and paratrooper.

The driver's workplace is equipped with: a seat; control and measuring instruments; lighting and alarm devices; four TNPO-170A surveillance devices; gyro-semi-compass GPK-59; machine controls; devices and actuators; A-ZTPU apparatus; radiation and chemical reconnaissance device; fire extinguishing means; surveillance device cleaning system.

The paratrooper's workplace is equipped with: a seat, an embrasure for firing personal weapons (on the left side of the hull), TNP-165A and TNPO-170A surveillance devices, and an A-3TPU apparatus.

Combat compartment. The fighting compartment is located in the middle part of the vehicle body directly behind the power compartment. It includes a turret and a part of the hull, limited by the power compartment partition in front and the guards of the landing seats in the rear.

At the commander's workplace there are: a commander's hatch with TKN-3B surveillance devices with an OU-3GA2, TNPO-170A, TNPT-1 illuminator; seat; commander's hatch rotation mechanism; sight 1PZ-3; stabilizer control panel; radio station R-123M (R-173); apparatus A-1TPU; tank and taps of the instrument cleaning system.

Airborne squad. The troop compartment is located in the rear of the vehicle. It is limited by the right and left sides of the hull and is divided into two parts by the middle fuel tank and the electrical equipment container. In the airborne squad there are six workplaces for paratroopers, three in each unit. Part of the basis for the seats are the side tanks, installed to the right and left of the middle tank. At each workplace there is a TNPO-170A device for monitoring the terrain while moving in combat, embrasures for firing from PK machine guns (front) and AK machine guns (the rest), and places for stowing paratroopers’ property. There are two doors at the rear of the vehicle for the exit and entry of troops. To monitor the terrain, they are equipped with two TNPO-170A devices, and in the left door there is also an embrasure for firing from an AK. Above the seats in the roof there are two hatches for landing troops afloat, firing at air targets and observing the terrain on the march.

Soldier at an observation post

Observational reconnaissance is carried out in all types of combat to obtain information about the ground and air enemy, their fire weapons, engineering obstacles, command posts and other objects.

To conduct surveillance reconnaissance, a soldier may be assigned as an observer or chemical observer.

The soldier assigned as an observer must see and hear everything without being noticed. The observation location is selected at the direction of the commander, one that would provide good visibility, camouflage, shelter from enemy fire, and have convenient approaches.

You cannot be located on the tops of hills, near isolated trees, buildings, on the edge of small groves, near individual bushes, i.e. near those places that can serve as landmarks for the enemy and attract his attention.

The most convenient for observation are trenches, ditches, shell craters and other excavations in the ground. The place for observation in them is chosen so that there is an embankment, hillocks or bushes behind; then the observer will not be silhouetted against the sky.

Observation methods day and night

At local objects (post, tree, etc.), observation is carried out lying down on the shadow side.

For the convenience of observation and detailed inspection of the observed area, the sector assigned to the observer is divided by depth into three observation zones: the closest, most accessible to observation with the naked eye, with a depth of 400 - 500 m; medium - up to 1000 m and long range - up to the limit of visibility.

The boundaries of the zones are established by clearly visible landmarks or local objects.

When starting observation, they first briefly inspect the entire area (in the offensive - from oneself towards the enemy, and in defense - from the enemy towards oneself).

Observation begins from the nearest zone and is carried out from right to left along conventionally designated boundaries from oneself in depth through a sequential inspection of the terrain and local objects. Open areas of the terrain are inspected faster, closed areas in more detail.

The observer reports everything observed to the commander without ceasing observation.

In the report, the observer indicates a landmark, at what distance from it (to the right, to the left, further, closer) and what was noticed, for example, “Landmark two - to the left 50, closer to 100, there is an enemy observation post near the yellow bush” (see Appendix 1).

Surveillance is especially difficult at night. It must be remembered that in the dark visibility from above is worse than from below. Therefore, the observation site is chosen in hollows and low places, from where it is possible to quickly detect the enemy projecting against the sky. Objects with contour outlines that clearly appear on the ground are selected as landmarks.

The procedure for inspecting the area in the observation sector

Observation at night is carried out using night vision devices or the naked eye.

When observing at night, to avoid blinding, do not look at brightly lit objects or light sources.

An infrared illuminator reveals the location of its application. Therefore, when starting observation, you need to turn on the power of the electro-optical device, carefully inspect the area in the observation sector and make sure that the enemy does not have infrared searchlights. It should be remembered that the enemy's radiation source will be projected as a light green spot with a bright white center.

Its direction is determined by the shape of the spot; if it has the shape of a circle, then the beam is directed towards the observer; if an ellipse is visible, elongated vertically, the beam is directed towards the observer at an angle of 45-60°.

In cases where visibility at night is very limited or completely excluded, reconnaissance is carried out by eavesdropping. It is necessary to take into account that audibility is significantly influenced by air temperature and humidity, wind, terrain, vegetation cover, local objects, etc.

In cloudy weather or in deep clouds, and especially after rain, audibility increases; on a clear sunny day, it worsens.

At night and early in the morning, audibility is better than during the day, and in winter it is better than in summer. Audibility also improves if sound waves propagate over a water surface (lake, river, etc.). Wind speeds up or slows down the propagation of sound waves. If it blows from the sound source towards the observer, audibility improves.

In mountainous areas, sounds arising from the movement of troops and defensive work are heard at a much greater distance than on the plain, since sound waves, reflected from the surface of the mountains, travel further. Vegetation and local objects in the path of movement can slow their spread and change direction.

When choosing a location for eavesdropping, you should strive to hear sounds without reflection: in elevated places, further away from obstacles and downwind from areas through which the enemy will make noise. You should not be located near trees that are noisy from the wind, etc.

At night, as well as during the day, it is important not only to detect the target, but also to determine the distance to it.

Determining distances to targets or local objects during the day can be done in various ways: by eye; by angular values ​​of targets or local objects; on the rangefinder scale of the optical sight; direct measurement of the area.

The visual method of determining distance without the use of any instruments is one of the main ways of determining distances to targets.

In practice, two methods are used to visually determine distances to targets (local objects): by segments of terrain; according to the degree of visibility and apparent size of the target.

When determining distances along sections of terrain, it is necessary to mentally set aside some familiar distance that is firmly entrenched in visual memory, for example a segment of 100, 200, 400 m, from yourself to the target or local object. It should be taken into account that as the distance increases, the apparent size of the segment gradually decreases in the future.

When determining distances based on the degree of visibility and the apparent size of the target, it is necessary to compare the visible size of the target with the visible dimensions of this target imprinted in memory at certain distances.

If a target is detected near a landmark or local object, the distance to which is known, then when determining the distance to the target, its distance from the landmark must be taken into account.

Determining distances based on local visibility

objects (people)

To determine the distance by angular value, it is necessary to know the width or height of the target (object) to which the distance is measured, and to have observation devices. When determining distances using this method, measure the angular value of the apparent height or width of the target (object) and calculate the distance using the formula

D = H x 1000,

where D is the determined distance to the target; B is the height or width of the target, Y is the angle in thousandths at which the target (object) is visible. The procedure for determining distance using binoculars: in the field of view of the binoculars there is a goniometric grid, which, in turn, has mutually perpendicular goniometric scales. The value of one large scale division corresponds to 10 thousandths (0-10), the small one corresponds to 5 thousandths (0-05). For example, you need to determine the distance to an enemy ATGM (anti-tank guided missile) located at the line of telegraph poles.

Solution: The distance between the pillars is 50 m. It is closed by four large divisions of the horizontal goniometric scale (40 thousandths or 0-40). The distance to the ATGM is

D = H x 1000 = 50 x 1000 = 1250m

Observation devices. To determine the distances on the rangefinder scale of the RPG-7 optical sight and the BMP gun, you need to point the scale at the target so that the target is located between the solid horizontal and inclined dotted lines.

Binocular angular scales. The scale bar located above the target indicates the distance to the target, which has a height of 2.7 m. If the target has a height of less (more than) 2.7 m, then it is necessary from the distance determined

on the scale, subtract (add) an amendment equal to the product of the number of tenths of a meter of difference in the height of the target by the constant number 4 and the scale number located above the target.

For example, you need to determine the distance to a heavy enemy tank with a height of 3.2 m if the top of the tank touches the dotted line of the rangefinder scale with a stroke marked 6.

Determining the distance using the optical rangefinder scale

sight (distance to target 600 m with its height 2.7 m)

Solution: The difference in target height is 0.5 m (3.2 - 2.7 = 0.5); the correction is 120 m (0.5 x 4 x 6 = 120 m); distance to target 720 m (600 + 120) or rounded 700 m.

In the optical sight of a sniper rifle, the scale bar, in contrast to the RPG-7 and BMP sights, indicates the distance to the target, which has a height of 1.7 m.

The distance to the target on the rangefinder scale can only be determined when the target height is completely visible.

To determine distances by measuring the terrain in steps, you need to know the average value of one pair of your steps in meters. When determining distances, steps are counted in pairs. This method can only be used outside of contact with the enemy and serves to check the correctness of the eye's determination of distances.

The observation post must have observation devices, a large-scale map or diagram of the area, an observation log (see Table 1), a compass, a watch, a flashlight, communications and warning signals.

Having received the task, observers begin to covertly equip the observation site. It is usually chosen near the commander setting up the post, with a good view. Communication between the observation post and the commander is carried out by telephone, radio, voice or established signals. The senior observer reports to the commander (chief) who sent the post about the occupation of the observation post and the completion of its equipment.

Observers take turns observing. It begins with a detailed study of the area and determining distances to landmarks and characteristic local objects in the designated sector.

Having discovered a target, the senior observer reports to the commander in accordance with the established procedure about its position relative to landmarks and, in addition, plots it on a map or diagram of the area and makes an entry in the observation log.

Surveillance of enemy air is carried out by sequentially scanning the airspace, starting from the horizon.

Having detected an air target, the observer gives an alert signal, determines its nature, direction and altitude of flight and reports it to the commander who set up the post (senior post observer).

A chemical observer conducts continuous observation in a specified area, at a specified time, and also during each enemy artillery and air raid, turns on radiation and chemical reconnaissance devices and monitors their readings.

If radiation contamination is detected (radiation level 0.5 rad/h and above), the observer is immediately obliged to report to the commander and, on his instructions, give the “Radioactive danger” signal.

If a chemical and bacteriological (biological) contamination is detected, the observer gives a "Chemical Alert" signal and reports to the commander.

The results of radiation and chemical observations are recorded in the observation log (see Table 2).

At the end of the shift, the senior observation post signs the observation log in the journal.

Table 1

SAMPLES OF ENTRIES IN THE OBSERVATION LOG

table 2

IN THE JOURNAL OF RADIATION AND CHEMICAL OBSERVATION

(first half of the magazine)

(second half of the magazine)

The action of a sentinel soldier on the march

The patrol squad is assigned to timely detect the enemy and reconnaissance of the area. It operates at a distance that allows for observation of its actions and fire support.

A soldier in a patrol squad can operate in an infantry fighting vehicle or on foot, or on skis in winter. He performs the task by observation on the move and from short stops.

When conducting reconnaissance far from the enemy in a combat vehicle, when a meeting with him is unlikely, the patrol squad usually moves along the road at maximum speed, and in the area of ​​​​a possible meeting with the enemy, off the roads, covertly, jumping from one point convenient for observation to another.

If reconnaissance of any object is difficult, the commander sends out foot patrols (two or three soldiers), appointing one of them as a senior officer, and the vehicle is located in a shelter. The soldiers remaining in the vehicle monitor the surrounding area and the actions of the patrolmen, ready to support them with fire.

The patrolmen inspect the terrain and local objects along the path of movement in the following way: having moved closer to the local object, they first inspect it from the outside, trying to identify whether the enemy has taken cover behind it or inside it. Having found no signs indicating presence of the enemy, the sentries approach the local object, inspect it and the area ahead. At the same time, the senior patrolman, moving slightly behind his patrolman, must be ready to support him with fire, at the same time he continuously maintains visual contact with the squad leader. Having made sure that there is no enemy, the senior patrolman gives the squad commander the signal “The path is clear.” The sentinels remain in place and continue surveillance until the squad leader arrives. Having received the next observation point from the squad commander, the patrolmen continue to move to the new observation point in the same sequence. When inspecting local objects, the sentinels do not stay in one place for long.

If the sentinels encounter a section of terrain prepared for defense and discover trenches, trenches, wire and mine barriers, then they must first of all find out whether the barriers are defended by the enemy, whether the trenches and trenches are occupied by troops, establish the enemy’s strength, the depth and nature of his defense. It is possible that observation fails to reveal the presence of the enemy in the trenches.

In this case, the patrol can take some demonstrative actions, for example, making noise at the wire fence in order to draw enemy fire or, as a last resort, shelling the barriers in several places. If the fence is not guarded, you need to find a bypass (passage) or make a passage through the fence, and then continue moving along the given route, being sure to mark the passage.

Inspection of the forest begins from the edge. Signs of the presence of an enemy in the forest can be: the flight of birds, the trail of carts, tanks and cars leading into the forest, broken branches and peeled bark on trees, movement at the edge of the forest, smoke from fires, the shine of glasses of optical instruments, etc. When inspecting the forest, you need to pay attention to the tops of trees and dense thickets to prevent a surprise attack by the enemy.

Clearings, ravines, bushes, gates and other places convenient for enemy ambushes are subject to especially thorough inspection.

The inspection of the settlement begins from a distance, if possible from elevated places. Particular attention is paid to places from which the enemy can conduct observation himself (trees, roofs of buildings, windows of buildings, etc.). Signs indicating the presence of an enemy in a populated area can be: the noise of engines, a lot of movement, and sometimes unusual silence.

If the enemy is not detected, the sentinels secretly approach the populated area. First, detached or outlying houses are inspected and local residents are interviewed. Individual courtyards must be approached not from the street, but from the side of the garden, vegetable garden or outbuildings. Inspection of buildings is carried out first from the outside, then from the inside. In During the inspection of the premises, one of the sentinels is located in the courtyard, ready to assist those inspecting the building inside and warn the unit about the presence of the enemy. If there are no residents, before entering the house, it is necessary to inspect whether it is mined, whether there are booby traps ("surprises") in the house, etc.

Having not found the enemy in the outermost houses, the patrolmen move along the streets, inspect individual houses to choose from and go to the opposite outskirts of the village, from where they give the conditioned signal “The path is clear.” In a large populated area, as the houses are inspected, the patrol, using courtyards, breaks in the walls and other hidden paths, moves from one block to another.

The river is first examined from the distance from which it is visible. It is necessary to find out from local residents whether there are fortifications that the enemy could build on the approaches to the shore in order to defend the crossings, whether they are defending themselves, whether there is an enemy on the opposite bank, where there are dams, bridges, fords, etc.

If the enemy occupies bridgehead fortifications, then it is necessary to establish his forces and firing points by observation. In the case when the approaches to the river are not defended, the sentinels, by order of the commander, determine the nature of its banks, measure its width and flow speed.

The width of the river is determined by eye, using binoculars, or by measuring (with a rope or wire). If there is no enemy on the opposite bank, the width of the river can be measured by constructing geometric triangles.

To do this, you need to stand on your bank opposite some local object located on the opposite bank near the water. From your location, measure some distance along the shore, for example 50 steps, and notice this point; then measure another distance along the shore equal to half the measured one, i.e. in this case 25 steps. From this place, move away from the shore at a right angle until the previously noticed point is in alignment with an object located on the opposite bank. The distance traveled from the shore, doubled, will be equal to the width of the river.

The speed of the current is determined by the movement of a light object (float) thrown into the river, which will move at the speed of the water flow. For this purpose, count in seconds the time during which the float floats the distance previously measured along the river bank. It is recommended to throw the float into the water further from the shore.

The presence of a ford can be determined by the tracks of carts, cars and other equipment going to the river, and the depth of the river should be measured by directly crossing into the ford, as well as by a pole from a boat or raft.

When inspecting a bridge, it is necessary to determine its load capacity, length and width. Many bridges have a sign indicating their load capacity. Inspection of a bridge previously defended by the enemy should be done carefully. If the bridge is mined, you need to clear it or put up a sign with the inscription “Mined”.

In the event that the enemy is defending the opposite bank, careful observation is organized and measures are taken to find a ford or a new, more advantageous place for crossing.

When inspecting a deep ravine, one of the sentinels conducts reconnaissance along the bottom, the rest move along its edge and observe the surrounding area.

Preparation and adjustment of uniforms and equipment for the march

To move silently, you can use the following methods: on hard ground, place your foot on the toe, on soft ground, on the heel; on grass, raise your legs higher than the grass and carefully lower them onto your heels; move branches in different directions along bushes and thickets; when fording a small river or other shallow water hazard, lower your foot into the water from the toe, dragging it forward through the water, do not raise your feet under water, as the water flowing from the shoes makes noise; on viscous marshy soil, move in short and slow steps, carefully lower your feet to the ground with the entire foot, while placing them a little wider than during normal walking.

On terrain with a large number of bumps, holes, and craters, it is more convenient to carry a personal weapon in the “chest” position. This position frees up your hands.

When moving at night, we must not forget that the enemy has night vision sights, as well as radio engineering and radar reconnaissance equipment that can detect moving soldiers. To detect these means, when acting in reconnaissance, you need to take your night sights and other means.

If the enemy illuminates the area, you need to lie down without any command and not move, and continue moving when darkness falls. If the enemy discovered and opened fire, you must throw yourself out of the firing zone.