Modeling rifle section reconnaissance patrol formation

Abstract

The successful execution of reconnaissance patrols by rifle section commanders hinges on their ability to adeptly organize their soldiers into effective formations. These formations must ensure both the safety and efficacy of the soldiers and the mission at hand. Inefficient utilization of human and material resources within rifle sections assuming the role of reconnaissance patrols can detrimentally impact the combat readiness of higher echelon units. This paper aims to explore the optimization of rifle section organizational structures by aligning them with regulations and effectively balancing capabilities with requirements. By comparing prescribed protocols in the Serbian Armed Forces with commanders’ practical insights and utilizing scientific methodologies to evaluate various scenarios, this research endeavors to distill one or several generalized rifle section reconnaissance formations applicable across a spectrum of situations.

Keywords

• rifle section (rifle squad)
• formation
• reconnaissance patrol
• command and control
• scenario-based method.