In the attack, GSR sites forward of the line-of-departure (LOD) are usually selected from a map study or aerial
photographs. It then becomes the team or section leader's responsibility to choose the precise location upon
general area arrival. Under these circumstances, it is necessary for the GSR crew to have detailed instructions
concerning their mission well in advance. Orders must specify the area to be placed under surveillance, and the
type of information the radar is expected to provide. The specific information which systems are to determine is
critical and must be stated in concise terms. Upon arrival at the selected site, the GSR element puts the set into
operation and reports site location to the intelligence officer.
During movement to contact, GSR teams may be employed with security elements on an exposed flank or
employed to provide additional observation and security. GSRs should be vehicle-mounted whenever possible.
Although GSRs and medium-range NODs cannot operate effectively while moving, they can operate from a
halted vehicle and speed leapfrogging. Once contact has been established, surveillance teams are employed as
in the attack. GSRs and collocated medium-range NODs displace only on order of the section leader, S2, or
commander.
GSR teams can be employed with infiltration units in enemy rear areas. Use of GSRs and NODs by an infiltration
force may enable a unit to avoid enemy outposts, patrols, or ambushes by locating enemy activity prior to contact,
thus avoiding discovery. Ground surveillance properly used by an infiltrating field commander permits using
darkness and bad weather to his advantage.
Using GSR teams for pursuit or exploitation is essentially the same as for movement to contact. They may be
employed with security elements to provide surveillance on an exposed flank or used to provide observation and
security for the pursuing or exploiting force. GSR teams may be moved with rapidly advancing elements to
provide continuous enemy activity surveillance, thus speeding up detection of the presence or lack of enemy
activity in an area.
GSR teams may be attached to forces being airlifted to seize key objectives which block enemy routes or
withdrawal. Because of their lightweight equipment, GSR teams are ideal for this mission.
Surveillance sections can locate enemy elements moving toward or around friendly defensive positions giving the
commander the flexibility to strike at these forces on a selective basis.
Medium-range NODs are used during night defensive operations to augment and supplement GSR area
coverage.
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IS3004
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