enemy forces by fire and to disrupt enemy operations by maneuver and fire.
They operate best in open terrain where they can maneuver and concentrate
fires quickly, disperse, maneuver, and concentrate again.
They are not
suited for employment in restrictive terrain (such as jungles, mountains, or
swamps).
Urbanized terrain also impedes maneuver.
Mechanized battalion
task forces of heavy brigades can operate in urban areas, although
nonmechanized infantry brigades are best suited for urban operations as well
as employment in restrictive terrain.
For a better understanding, we will review the actual structure of the
maneuver battalions.
Maneuver battalions come under the control of the
brigade headquarters. Next, we will define the task force.
Task Force. The mechanized infantry and armor battalions can be employed as
pure organizations. However, they are normally organized as a combined arms
team.
This team is known as a task force.
A task force is a temporary
grouping of combined arms units, usually of battalion size, under one
commander for the purpose of carrying out a specific mission or tactical
operation. The brigade commander allocates maneuver assets to the battalion
task force based on various factors.
The task force commander can employ
pure companies or further cross-attach these assets at company level to form
"teams."
Mechanized Infantry Battalion
The organization of the mechanized and armored battalions has changed
significantly under the new J-series TOE. By integrating the new family of
fighting vehicles, the mobility and lethality of the battalion has enhanced
its ability to fight on the AirLand Battlefield.
The basic structure of the mechanized heavy division maneuver battalion is
organized with the following elements:
o
A headquarters and headquarters company (HHC).
o
Four maneuver companies (Companies A through D).
o
An antitank company.
See Figure 7 for the organization of the mechanized battalion.
The HHC
provides for many actions.
It provides for command and control,
administrative,
logistical,
medical
support,
mortar
support,
and
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