Figure 10-5. Securing Breach Site and Reduction During Covert Breach.

often provided by smoke grenades or smoke pots. The breach force executes the breach and
secures a foothold, allowing the assault force to continue the attack.

Assault Marines and combat engineers are specially trained in urban breaching. Their small
unit leaders should be consulted on selecting potential primary and alternate entry points and
primary and secondary breaching methods. Depending on METT-T factors, they may employ
mechanical breaching (i.e., using tools such as bolt cutters, assault ladders, and Halligan bar
tools), ballistic breaching (i.e., using shotguns), or explosive breaching techniques (i.e., using
explosive charges). In high intensity operations, rockets and armored vehicles may be
employed to create breaches.

The goal of urban breaching is to provide the assault force with rapid, positive, and dynamic
access to an objective. The point of entry is selected by the supported small unit leader based
on the tactical situation, building construction, and covered and concealed approaches. Entry is

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