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БАЗОВА ЗАГАЛЬНОВІЙСЬКОВА ПІДГОТОВКА

ПОСІБНИК

BASIC
COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S
TRAINING
OPERATION INTERFLEX

HANDBOOK

“The world needs a free and “Не ми почали цю війну. Але нам
sovereign Ukraine” цю війну закінчувати”
Boris JOHNSON Володимир ЗЕЛЕНСЬКИЙ

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

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DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTION:

Unclassified; distribution unlimited

July 2023

BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING


Operation INTERFLEX
Handbook. Edition 03-23-ENG

This publication represents the collaborative efforts of an international working group,


led by Major Serhii MAHLOVANYI, a representative of the Air Assault Forces of the Armed
Forces of Ukraine.

The primary objective of this document is to provide a comprehensive set of Aides-


Memoire for recruits and instructors concerning the Basic Combat Infantryman's
Training within the scope of Operation INTERFLEX. The consolidation of all training
materials aims to furnish newly enrolled members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine with a
convenient and concise source of fundamental military knowledge, thereby enhancing
their operational effectiveness.

This publication is a dynamic document, continually continuously adapting to


incorporate the latest doctrine, procedures, and combat experiences derived from the
the russian-Ukrainian war.

Translation and interpretation Team: major Serhii MAHLOVANYI, Lieutenant (ret.) Nazar
SKOROPAD, junior sergeant Igor BEREZHNY, senior soldier Marina SKORYAK, senior soldier
Darina SIDORCHUK.

Contributing Organization to the Development of the Handbook:

ll users are warmly encouraged to provide comments and suggestions for future editions
by contacting the Administrator via e-mail: s.m.warinitiative@gmail.com

ALDERSHOT – 2023
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CONTENTS

CONTENTS ..........................................................................................................................4

REFERENCES ...................................................................................................................... 5

RIGHTS AND DUTIES OF MILITARY PERSONNEL ..............................................................6

PSYCHOLOGICAL TRAINING ........................................................................................... 13

FIELDCRAFT ...................................................................................................................... 24

SIGNALS ...........................................................................................................................53

MEDICAL TRAINING ........................................................................................................ 60

LAW OF ARMED CONFLICT .............................................................................................. 72

CHEMICAL, BIOLOGICAL, RADIOLOGICAL AND NUCLEAR (CBRN) .............................. 76

ENGINEERING TRAINING ................................................................................................ 84

SKILL AT ARMS ................................................................................................................ 94

MAP READING & NAVIGATION ....................................................................................... 117

APPENDICES ................................................................................................................... 123

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REFERENCES

1. ITC Recruit Handbook


2. AC 71780 Vol II Pam 6 (mil.uk)
3. AC 71717 Fieldcraft (mil.uk)
4. AC 71882 Infantry Platoon Tactics (mil.uk)
5. AC 71158 Coaching Aide Memoire (mil.uk)
6. AC 71787 Op Cleaning Aide Memoire (mil.uk)
7. AC 71638 BCD Aide Memoire (mil.uk)
8. Armor and Mechanized Infantryman’s handbook (2015)
9. КРП 03.032.056-2018 (01) – Small arms and combat vehicles shooting publication
10. ВП-7-011162.01- Mechanized unit NCO’s handbook (2021)
11. JSP 383 – Joint service manual of the law of armed conflict (mil.uk)
12. АС 771130 – A soldier's guide to the law and armed conflict (mil.uk)
13. ДМ до СТІ 000Г.15Л – CBRN training publication (2019)

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RIGHTS AND DUTIES OF MILITARY PERSONNEL


Study, read and learn from others, but do not forget …Учітесь, читайте, І чужому научайтесь,
that which is your own … Й свого не цурайтесь…

Responsibilities of servicemen

Every serviceman must thoroughly know and keep in constant combat readiness his
weapons and military equipment, masterfully possess and skilfully use them and,
besides, to be ready to replace, if necessary, a fellow soldier or commander who has
fallen out of action.

Every serviceman is obliged to:

• know and understand the task assigned to him, the task of the platoon (squad,
tank);
• to be able to conduct reconnaissance of the enemy and the terrain, during the
performance of the assigned task to constantly monitor, detect and defeat
the enemy in time; to know the organic weapons (standard weapons); to know
the size, scope, sequence and timing of the construction of fortifications;
• be able to quickly build trenches and shelters, including with the use of
explosives, to carry out their masking;
• to act steadily and persistently in defence, boldly and decisively in the
offensive; to show courage, initiative and agility in battle, to assist a fellow
soldier;
• be able to fire at aircraft, helicopters and other air targets operating at low
altitudes with small arms; know the methods of protection against weapons of
mass destruction and high-precision weapons of the enemy;
• skillfully use protective and camouflage properties of terrain and local objects,
personal protective equipment and protective capabilities of vehicles;
• be able to cross obstacles and contamination zones, install and neutralize
anti-tank and anti-personnel mines;
• to carry out special processing (after leaving the contaminated areas);
• not to leave his place in battle without the permission of the commander;
• in case of injury or contamination with radioactive, poisonous substances,
biological agents, as well as incendiary weapons, take the necessary
measures of self- and mutual assistance and continue to perform the task;
• if ordered to go to the medical point, take personal weapons with you;
• if it is impossible to get to the medical point - crawl with weapons to the
shelter (place of gathering of the wounded) and wait for medics;
• to be able to prepare weapons and ammunition for combat use, to quickly and
agilely equip clips, magazines and belts with ammunition;
• monitor the consumption of ammunition and refueling of BMPs (APCs),
tanks with fuel, timely report to his commander on the consumption of 0.5 and
0.75 of the carried (transported) stock of ammunition and the availability of
fuel; in case of damage to the BMP (APC), tank, quickly take measures to
restore them.
Each sergeant and soldier is obliged to protect the commander in battle, in case of
his injury or death to be ready to take command of the unit.

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Special duties of a soldier

The ammunition carrier is appointed from among the soldiers of the section for the
timely provision of ammunition and everything necessary for firing. He must be able to
quickly and agilelyrefill ammunition magazines (belts), prepare hand grenades for combat
use, as well as:

• be in the position of the squad and fire at the enemy;


• know the location of the company (platoon) combat supply point and the
hidden route to it;
• upon receipt of a command from the squad leader to go to the combat supply
point, receive and deliver ammunition to the squad position in due time, report
to the squad leader and, if necessary, distribute it to the position.

The signaller is appointed from the soldiers of the platoon (section, crew) to transmit
verbal or written orders (reports). He is to:

• follow the signals of the company (platoon) commander;


• know the location of his commander and the hidden route to the commander
to whomhe was sent;
• deliver orders (reports) in a timely manner within a specified period of time
and reporton them.

General duties of servicemen

The necessity to perform tasks of defence of Ukraine, protection of its sovereignty and
territorial integrity, as well as tasks defined by international obligations of Ukraine,
imposes the following duties on servicemen:

• to sacredly and unbreakably abide by the Constitution of Ukraine and the laws
of Ukraine, the Military Oath, to faithfully serve the Ukrainian people, to
conscientiously and honestly perform military duty;
• to be brave, initiative and disciplined;
• to obey unconditionally the orders of commanders (superiors) and to protect
them in battle, to protect the Battle Flag of your unit as a sacred thing;
• constantly enhance the level of military professional knowledge, improve their
training and skills, know and perform their duties and comply with the
requirements of the regulations of the Armed Forces of Ukraine;
• to know and keep in readiness for use the assigned weapons, combat and other
equipment, to preserve state property;
• to cherish the military glory of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and his/her military
unit, honour and dignity of a serviceman of the Armed Forces of Ukraine;
• to respect combat and military traditions, to help other servicemen who are in
danger, to deter them from committing illegal actions, to respect the honour
and dignity of every person;
• be vigilant, strictly keep state secrets;
• to conduct combat operations proactively, persistently, until the task is fully
accomplished;
• to show respect for commanders (superiors) and senior officers, assist them in
maintaining order and discipline;

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• to follow the rules of military salute, courtesy and behaviour of servicemen,


always bedressed in uniform, clean and tidy.

A serviceman is obliged to report to his immediate superior about everything that has
happened to him and concerns the performance of his duties and about the reprimands
made to him.

A serviceman is obliged to comply with safety requirements, to take measures to prevent


diseases and injuries, to improve his physical fitness and training on a daily basis, to
refrain from habits harmful to health.

On official and personal issues, a serviceman shall address his immediate superior, and if
he is unable to resolve them - to the next immediate superior.

A serviceman is obliged to know and strictly observe the norms of international


humanitarian law adopted by Ukraine.

Each serviceman is obliged to perform official duties that determine the scope of tasks
assigned to him by his position. These duties are determined by the regulations of the
Armed Forces of Ukraine, as well as relevant manuals, guidelines, norms and instructions.

Rights of servicemen

Servicemen are under the protection of the state and have all the rights and freedoms
enshrined in the Constitution of Ukraine.

The state guarantees servicemen and members of their families social and legal
protection in accordance with the laws and normative legal acts adopted in accordance
with them.

During the performance of their duties, servicemen have the right to use means of
physical impact, as well as to carry, keep and use special equipment and weapons in
accordance with the procedure established by law.

The use of means of physical impact, special equipment and weapons is permitted if
other measures have proved ineffective or if, due to circumstances, the use of other
measures is impossible.

The use of weapons, except in cases of a sudden attack, attack with the use of military
equipment, vehicles, aircraft, sea and river vessels, escape from custody with weapons or
with the help of vehicles while moving, must be preceded by a warning of the intention to
use weapons and a shot in the air.

In the event of the application and use of weapons, servicemen are obliged to take all
measures toensure that no harm is caused to third parties.

Servicemen have the right to use special means, means of physical impact and weapons
personallyor as part of a unit:

• to protect their health and life, as well as the health and life of other
servicemen and civilians from attack, if it is impossible to protect them in this
situation by other ways and means;
• for the detention of a person who was caught committing a serious crime and
who is trying to escape or who is putting up armed resistance, trying to escape
from custody, as well as for the detention of an armed person who threatens
to use weapons and

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other means, which poses a threat to the life and health of a serviceman
or otherpersons;
• to repel an attack on objects protected by military personnel, as well as to
releasethese objects in case of capture;
• in case of an attempt to forcibly seize weapons, military and other
equipment, if it isimpossible to stop this attempt by other means.

A serviceman shall report on the use of physical force and special means to his
immediate commander (superior).

A serviceman is obliged to report immediately and in writing about injuries or death that
occurred as a result of the use of physical influence and special means, as well as about
all cases of the use of weapons, to his commander (superior), and the commander
(superior) of a military unit immediately reports to his immediate commander (superior),
as well as informs the military prosecutor and the head of the governing body of the
Military Law Enforcement Service of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (hereinafter - the Law
Enforcement Service) in the garrison.

A serviceman has the right to use weapons to give an alarm or call for help.

Military ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine

Every serviceman has a military rank in the army in accordance with the Law of Ukraine
"On Military Duty and Military Service". Military ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine are
divided into army and ship ranks in accordance with part two of Article 5 of the Law of
Ukraine "On Military Duty and Military Service". The list of military ranks is described
below and is relevant for today.
Thus, servicemen, reservists and persons liable for military service in the Ukrainian army
are divided into privates, non-commissioned officers and officers. (appendix 1).

Liability of servicemen

Depending on the nature of the committed offense or fault, servicemen bear


disciplinary, administrative, material, civil and criminal liability in accordance with the law
(Article 24 of the Law of Ukraine "On the Statute of Internal Service of the Armed Forces
of Ukraine").
Servicemen who are subject to a disciplinary penalty for a committed offence are not
exempt from material and civil liability for these offences. Servicemen are brought to
criminal liability for committing a crime on general grounds (Article 24 of the Law of
Ukraine "On the Statute of Internal Service of the Armed Forces of Ukraine").

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disciplinary

administrative

financial Types of legal liability

civil

criminal

Legal liability – is a measure of punishment of the offender by depriving him of certain


social, material, spiritual or personal benefits or values that belonged to him before the
fact of the offense, on behalf of the state, on the basis of a law or other regulatory act in
order to prevent offenses in the future and restore (or compensate) lost subjective
rights to material and spiritual values.

Legal liability arises only for the commission of offenses.

Principles of legal liability

Impossibility of double punishment

mandatory occurrence responsibility for the fault

individual
legitimacy appropriateness fairness
punishment

Specifics of legal liability of servicemen

a) Applies only to military personnel (unlike other citizens, the law provides for legal
liability only for military personnel for committing military crimes and military
disciplinary offences).
b) Increased liability of servicemen for committing certain offences due to the
principle of unconditional obedience to commanders (superiors). For example,
failure to execute an order by an employee entails the application of disciplinary
measures under labour legislation, while failure to execute an order by a
serviceman may be considered a military crime.
c) Commanders and other officials have certain powers to bring servicemen to
disciplinary and material liability, and to initiate criminal proceedings against
them.

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d) The legislation provides for the existence of certain conditions for the application
of the commander's power and the procedure for the implementation of legal
liability measures applied to servicemen.
e) Existence of special (inherent only for servicemen) types of liability (for example -
warning of incomplete service compliance, reduction in military rank, deprivation
of regular discharge).
f) The possibility of disciplinary liability for administrative offences.
g) Exemption of military personnel from legal liability if the act constitutes the
performance of military service duties.
h) Servicemen are not exempt from material and civil liability if they are subject to a
disciplinary penalty for an offence committed. They shall be held criminally liable
forcommitting a crime on general grounds.

Administrative offense (misconduct) – unlawful, culpable (intentional or negligent)


action or inaction that violates public order, property, rights and freedoms of citizens,
the established order of governance and for which the law provides for administrative
liability.

Administrative liability for offenses under the Code of Administrative Offenses occurs if
these violations by their nature do not entail criminal liability in accordance with the law.
(Article 9 ofthe Code of Administrative Offenses)

Disciplinary liability – is a type of legal liability that occurs for non-performance


(improper performance) of duties by a serviceman, violation of military discipline or
public order by a serviceman.

The peculiarities of bringing servicemen to disciplinary responsibility in general coincide


with the peculiarities of legal responsibility of servicemen and are regulated by the Law
of Ukraine "On the Disciplinary Statute of the Armed Forces of Ukraine".

Material liability — is the responsibility of servicemen for the damage, destruction or


illegal use of military property, deterioration or reduction of its value, which caused
additional expenses of the military unit where the serviceman serves.

Main articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine for military crimes

Art. 410 "Theft, misappropriation, extortion by a serviceman of weapons, ammunition,


explosives, vehicles, military and special equipment or other military property, as well as
their acquisition by fraud or abuse of office"
1) Theft, misappropriation, extortion by a serviceman of weapons, ammunition,
explosives or other munitions, means of transportation, military and special
equipment or other military property or taking possession of them by fraud - shall be
punishable by imprisonment for a term of 3 to 8 years.

2) The same actions committed by a military official with abuse of office, or


repeatedly, or by prior conspiracy by a group of persons, or those that caused
substantial damage - shall be punishable by imprisonment for a term of 5 to 10 years.

3) The actions described in the first or second paragraphs of this Article, if committed
under martial law or in a combat situation, as well as robbery with the purpose of
seizing weapons, ammunition, explosives or other warlike substances, vehicles,
military and special equipment, as well as extortion of these items, combined with

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violence dangerous to the life and health of the victim, shall be punishable by
imprisonment for a term of 10 to 15 years.

The main articles of the law on criminal liability for war crimes

Article 406 "Violation of statutory rules of relations between servicemen in the absence
ofsubordinate relations".

1) Violation of the statutory rules of relations between servicemen in the absence of


subordination between them, which manifested itself in beatings or other violence,
shall be punishable by arrest for up to six months or detention in a disciplinary
battalion for up to one year or imprisonment for up to 3 years.
2) The same act, if it is committed against several persons or has caused light or medium
bodily harm, as well as one that has the character of bullying or humiliation of a
serviceman, shall be punishable by detention in a disciplinary battalion for a term of
up to 2 years or imprisonment for a term of 2 to 5 years.
3) Acts provided for in paragraphs one or two of this Article, committed by a group of
persons, or with the use of weapons, or those that have caused severe consequences
- shall be punishable by imprisonment for a term of 3 to 10 years.

Art.407 "Unauthorized abandonment of a unit or place of service".

1) Unauthorized leaving of a unit or place of service by a conscript, as well as failure to


report on time without valid reasons for service in case of dismissal from the unit,
appointment or transfer, failure to report from a business trip, vacation or medical
institution lasting more than three days but more than a month - shall be punishable
by detention in a disciplinary battalion for up to 2 years, or imprisonment for up to 3
years.
2) The same acts committed by persons referred to in paragraphs one or two of this
Article fora period of more than one month shall be punishable by imprisonment for a
term of 2 to 5 years.
3) Unauthorized leaving of a unit or place of service by a serviceman, as well as failure to
report for service in time without valid reasons, committed in wartime or in a combat
situation, shall be punishable by imprisonment for a term of 5 to 10 years.

Art.409 "Desertion, i.e. leaving a military unit or place of service with the intention of
evading military service, as well as failure to report for service with the same purpose
when assigned, ispunishable by imprisonment for a term of 2 to 5 years".

Art.418 "Violation of the statutory rules of guard service is punishable by imprisonment


for a term of 2 to 5 years". The actions provided for in paragraph 1 of this Article
committed under martial law are punishable by imprisonment for a term of 3 to 8 years.

Art.421 "Violation of the statutory rules of the internal service".

1) "Violation of the statutory rules of the internal service by a person who is a member of
the daily duty of the unit (except for the guard), if it has caused serious
consequences, the prevention of which was the responsibility of this person - shall be
punishable by detention in a disciplinary battalion for up to 2 years or imprisonment
for up to 3 years".
2) The same act committed under martial law shall be punishable by imprisonment for up
to 5years.

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PSYCHOLOGICAL TRAINING

... The first battle a person fights is with himself... ... Найважча боротьба - з самим собою...
Dear soldier, this memo is based on the suggestions of military psychologists and
personal experience of combatants. What will happen to you has already happened to
other people. We hope this information will help to maintain a stable psycho
physiological state and combat capability.

Expectations and reality in the combat zone

Expectations: prepared for the task according to a clear schedule, with good
organisation. In reality, the routes are constantly changing.

At least a neutral attitude was expected from the local population. In reality: the
population may perceive you as aggressors (human shield, provocations). After the end -
complete disappointment, desire to cancel the contract, not understanding why all this
is necessary.

At the beginning - readiness to perform any tasks, mobilization. In the process -


confusion, misunderstanding, fear, uncertainty (for example, there is no order to reach a
certain place and harbour there, as dictated by all the rules).

Expectations: fast obtaining the legal status of a participant in combat actions. Reality:
lengthy processing of documents, slow work of the formation unit.

Factors affecting the psychological state and combat readiness

a) The lack of a clearly defined front line, the partial hostility of the local population,
a change (violation) of sleep regime, rest, nutrition, water quality, the influence of
unfavourable or unusual climatic and geographical factors give rise to feelings of
insecurity and anxiety.
b) Isolation and a feeling of abandonment - forced loneliness during combat
missions. A long stay at combat posts guarding roads, areas, and districts, often
separated from the main forces, in unclear conditions, with unstable
communication, often causes a feeling of being "outcast."
c) The threat to life and health is not only immediate, but also a constant
expectation.
d) Uncertainty – lack or contradiction of personally significant information.
e) The real possibility of being captured, held hostage with further torture and
abuse; highrisk of death, mutilation; visual vision of the death of colleagues, close
friends, civilians.
f) As the rotation period approaches, some servicemen become increasingly afraid
of beingkilled or wounded.
g) Distance from loved ones, anxiety for them, lack of understanding of the goals of
the war,society's attitude to the conflict.
h) Confidence or uncertainty in the favourable development of events, which
largely dependon leadership, cohesion, personal qualities of the leader, discipline.
i) Absence of normal conditions for life and battle.

Recommendations for reducing risk factors in the combat zone

1) Caution and real perception of danger: adequately assess the danger. In battle, the
danger is always real. Do not be in open areas where shelling is possible. Constantly
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monitor the territory where you are. Keep your weapon always with you and ready.
Study the statutes (this will help you make the right decision about your actions in
unexpected circumstances). Organize combat security. If commanders do not act -
take the initiative.
2) Suddenness (surprise) and novelty (non-standard) of the situation. As a rule, there
is a gap between the guarantee of the forecast and the actual development of the
combat situation, which in battle is a source of mental overload. The reason for this is
the divergence between the decision-maker's understanding of the situation and its
actual development.
3) During hostilities, the responsibility for the decision and its implementation before
the country, the law and social requirements, the senior commander and subordinate
personnel increases significantly. Desertion or writing a dismissal report is possible.
4) Monotony and boredom from the excess of time during the long waiting period can
destabilise the activity of some soldiers, including commanders, whose character
features are demonstrativeness, excitability, exaltation.
5) There may be claustrophobia - fear of closed spaces, for example, under fire from
the enemy (accompanied by an unconscious desire to leave this shelter, despite an
even greater threat), and agoraphobia - fear of open spaces (the desire to hide from
the sound and visual effects of combat operations).
6) Blood and the appearance of severe injuries, destruction - severe injuries and
death of comrades in arms, destruction of shelters, buildings and military equipment,
as a rule, paralyzethe human psyche, which is not tempered for an adequate, balanced
perception of all this. The sight of corpses, torn off arms, legs, blood pulsing from an
open wound, a cut body either suppresses the human psyche or causes inadequate
activity in the soldiers. The sound of a flying mine can cause panic reactions. Odours
can complement and intensify the negative impact.
7) Shortage of time, acceleration of the pace of actions, complexity of decisions,
excess of information, combination of several types of activities at the same time,
the degree of complexity of the actions of combat personnel specialists, high level of
physical and psychological stress. To increase work capacity, fighting capacity,
stress resistance, and psychological resilience, follow the recommendations of
doctors and psychologists, follow the regime of water consumption, nutrition, and
sleep (!). Do not use alcohol and narcotic substances (!).
8) Hostility of the population and provocations. Be prepared for this and check food,
water, etc.; remember to check the information.

Stress and combat stress

Stress - is a disturbance of peace that occurs in a person as a reaction to a certain


situation, external or internal activity, it is a tense state of a person due to the influence
of emotional and negative and extreme factors of the external environment. This is a
normal reaction of the bodyto an abnormal situation.

The functioning of the psyche in an extreme situation can be explained by the metaphor
“the cartsare drawn by horses driven by a coachman”.
The human psyche consists of three parts. The most ancient brainstem and
parasympathetic nervous system are responsible for the body - the "cart". The limbic
part and the sympathetic nervous system are responsible for emotions and actions
("horses"), and the system of emotional and social control summarizes experience,
directs activity, controls ("coachman").

When something extraordinary, life-threatening happens, the limbic part ("horses")

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takes over. First of all, it "turns off" the control system ("coachman"). (In a dangerous
situation, this is how it should be.) The trunk begins to function intensively: hormones
necessary for an intensive response to the situation are released - adrenaline, nor
epinephrine, cortisone. Painkillers are also released, which dull and sometimes
completely disable the sensitivity of the body - this reaction reduces suffering, protects
from pain shock in case of injury. For example, an antelope in a state of shock falls dead a
few minutes before the lion's claws touch it. This allows the animal to survive if the lion
does not eat it immediately. If it fails to survive, the death will be painless. Having
avoided danger, the antelope finds a safe place and begins to tremble - so the body is
released from tension.

Summing up, we can say that there are three types of reactions to stress: fight, flee,
freeze. Manifestations are characteristic of each stage of trauma (you can determine
your well-being and understand what is happening to your fellow soldiers).

State of shock (combat shock)

•Pale skin; intense stare, the person almost does not blink; forgets what has happened,
what needs to be done; does not show emotions when describing an emotionally
charged situation; absence or slowing of speech; cold limbs; keeps apart from others
to feel safe; weak muscle tone or severe spasms.

Overexcitement (combat stress)

•Redness of the skin; frequent blinking; harsh laughter; restlessness, fidgeting;


sweating; rapid, uncontrollable speech; excessive vigilance, alertness; emotional
outbursts; excessive fear reaction that lasts for a long time; sudden feeling of heat;
abruptly looks away; excessive sensitivity; tense muscles.

Fatigue (combat exhaustion)

•Pessimism, depression, lethargy; irritability, dissatisfaction with everything ("I don't


want anything"); anxiety; nervousness; tense facial expression; lack of steady eye
contact; loud speech; difficulty relaxing; problems with sleep and appetite; reduced
performance (difficulty performing tasks, no desire to wash, shave, etc.).

Recovery from trauma

•Longing, sadness, devastation rolls up in waves; there may be feelings of guilt,


resentment; periodically want to cry at the mention of traumatic events; at such
moments there is a reluctance to live; holding back tears; deterioration of immunity -
frequent colds; psychosomatic disorders (for example, digestive problems, high blood
pressure, headaches, etc.).

Adaptation to the extreme conditions


•Improvement of attention; activation of thinking; exacerbation of higher feelings:
patriotism, responsibility, collectivism, conscience, readiness for self-sacrifice, etc.;
faith in one's own strength, success, hope for the best; ability to patiently withstand
trials; emotional stability; ability to concentrate to solve a problem; resistance to
temporary setbacks; ability of the body to quickly rebuild, increase endurance, etc.

Acute stress reaction

The consequences of a stressful situation manifest themselves differently in different


people: they can occur immediately after the event or after a certain period of time. First
of all, a serviceman should know what the consequences of severe stress can be:
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• loss of sleep and appetite;


• intrusive memories;
• nightmares about the event;
• deterioration of mood when remembering the event;
• loss of ability to experience strong feelings and emotions;
• memory impairment ;
• desire to avoid thoughts and feelings associated with the traumatic situation;
• feeling of "shortened future", loss of life orientation;
• difficulty in concentration;
• irritability;
• frightfulness.

Every participant of military operations can be in a state of combat stress. Combat stress
occurs even before the real threat to life and lasts until the exit from the combat zone.

Combat stress – is the process of mobilization of all available capabilities of the body,
immune, protective, nervous, mental systems to overcome a dangerous situation for life.
A person's blood composition changes. Hormones that enter the blood from the
endocrine glands cause anxiety, vigilance, aggressiveness. Lung volume increases, which
allows to get more oxygen to the organs that are actively involved. Narrowing of blood
vessels leads to an increase in blood pressure, increased blood circulation, redistribution
of its amount in the organs (in active people, its supply to internal organs decreases and
increases - to the heart, skeletal muscles).

Participation in hostilities is considered as a stressor, traumatic for almost any person,


participation in war is accompanied by the influence of a number of factors:

• awareness of a sense of threat to life, the so-called biological fear of death,


injury, pain,disability;
• incomparable stress that arises in a person who is a combatant; along with this,
there is psycho-emotional stress associated with death in front of
comrades-in-arms or theneed to kill a person, even the enemy;
• the impact of specific factors of the combat situation (lack of time,
acceleration of the pace of action, suddenness, uncertainty, novelty);
• hardships and deprivations (often lack of adequate sleep, specific drinking
regime and nutrition).

Externally, in a combat situation, stress is manifested in increased heart rate, body


temperature, breathing of a serviceman, pallor or redness of the face, increased
sweating, dry mouth, muscle tremors, increased urination, increased anxiety and
vigilance, etc. All these symptoms are a normal human reaction to the abnormal
circumstances of a combat situation.

Recommendations for counteracting the effects of stress

What helps to reduce stress:

• try to concentrate to control your actions;


• do everything as accurately as possible;
• try to control not only yourself, but also the surrounding situation as a whole;
• try to see yourself from the outside;
• try to imagine the whole situation from the outside;
• do not give in to emotions, order yourself to think about your task, for this ask

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

yourself: "Who am I? Where am I? What is my task (what should I do?)";

• in order to control yourself, try to recreate aloud (if possible) the situation in
which you found yourself, but do not give it an emotional assessment;

• try to perceive everything that happens as a whole. In a situation of excessive


stress:

• if you have lost sensitivity to external influences or cannot cope with emotions
(fear or panic) - hurt yourself (pinch yourself) and concentrate on this feeling
of pain;

• if you are confused - try to feel the position of your body in space, focus on the
sensations that come from the position of the body, air temperature,
surrounding objects;

• if you find it difficult to concentrate - call yourself by name, try to solve some
simple mathematical problems.

SOF experience of overcoming negative emotions. Feeling of fear in a battle

One of the most common methods is to refuse to think about the situation in detail (it is
thinking about these details that generates anxiety) and instantly switch on to overcome
obstacles according to the principle: "don't be afraid of the wolf in the forest".

"Any person can be scared in this life ("only a fool is not afraid")". So, it is useful for the
military to know that emotional reactions in a situation of fear and before sexual contact
are the same.

Here is how one experienced instructor explained this situation: "When you feel fear and
your heart starts pounding in your chest, remember your first sex. That's how your heart
'pounds' when you realize the real danger." In both situations your body reacts the same
way.

Therefore, at the moment of realization of this danger, perhaps, more vividly remember,
imagine and feel yourself with this woman, in that very first "baptism of fire". Your
consciousness will switch to this picture, and you will live in this mode for a few seconds.
And you will not be in danger, the fear will disappear. But the woman is gone, and the
excitement will go away, "burn out", the phase of "combat indifference" begins. There
remains combat work, which you will do calmly and concentrated.

Disconnect from the negative. Exercise "Switch".

The "Switch" technique is a good way to get rid of scary thoughts, as well as fixation on
negative images. When it is difficult to get rid of thoughts that generate anxiety and fear,
imagine that this obsessive thought is a big switch, reach for it and turn it off. Once - and
that` s it, silence. You have turned off that thought.

Technique of breathing normalization

We "collect" all the fear that has gripped us and exhale it noisily with effort to complete
emptiness in the chest. As we exhale, we get rid of cowardice and inhale courage. Inhale
calmly, feeling how the energy, penetrating inside, fills us with determination. Imagine
that you exhale dark spots, clouds of smoke, and inhale - success, strength. Exhale
weakness, inhale strength. Exhale fear, inhale determination.

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Changing the breathing characteristic of fear to any other, you will feel calmer and will be
able to soberly assess the situation. Breathing restores inner harmony and integrity,
and fear has nopower over a harmonious personality.

Breath control

Breathing is not only the most important function of the body, but also an effective way
to influence muscle tone and emotional centres of the brain. Slow and deep breathing
reduces the excitability of nerve centres and promotes muscle relaxation. Frequent
breathing provides a high level of activity of the body. It was also noticed that during
inhalation there is an activation of mental tone, and during exhalation it decreases. By
changing the rhythm of breathing, the duration of inhalation and exhalation, a person
can influence changes in many functions of the body, including mental ones. For the
initial mastering we can offer two types of breathing: lower (abdominal) and upper
(clavicle). Lower breathing is used when it is necessary to overcome excessive
excitement, overcome anxiety and irritability, relax as much as possible for quick and
effective rest. It is the most productive, as in the lower parts of the lungs there is the
largest number of lung vesicles (alveoli).

Exercise "Square breathing”.

Abdominal breathing is performed as follows. Sitting or standing, you need to release


tension from the muscles and focus your attention on breathing. Then there are 4 stages
of a single cycle of breathing, which is accompanied by an internal count to facilitate
learning. On count 1234, a slow breath is taken with the abdomen protruding forward, the
abdominal muscles relaxed and the chest still. The next four counts (1234) are followed
by a breath hold and a smooth exhalation for 6 counts (123456), accompanied by
tightening of the abdominal muscles to the spine. The next inhalation is again followed by
a pause for 2-4 counts. It should be remembered that you need to breathe only through
the nose and as smoothly as if there is a feather hanging in front of your nose at a
distance of 10-15 cm, and it should not wobble. After 3-5 minutes of such breathing you
will notice that you have become calm and balanced.

The result of this technique will be:

1) Psychological peace of mind: achieving the ability to solve the problem reasonably
and withoutunnecessary fuss.
2) Stabilization of physiological parameters of the body:
• returning the heart rate to normal;
• normalization of blood pressure;
• restoration of calm breathing.
3) Increasing psychological resistance to negative stress.
If you need to cheer up after a monotonous work, relieve fatigue, prepare for active
activity, then upper (clavicle) breathing is recommended. It is necessary to take an
energetic deep breath through the nose with raising the shoulders and a sharp short
exhalation through the mouth. There are no pauses between inhalation and exhalation.
After a few cycles of such breathing, you will feel "goose bumps" on your back, freshness,
a flush of energy.

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Recommendations for actions when detecting stress in a fellow soldier

Symptoms of post-stress condition:

• trembling of the fingers,


• muscle tension,
• sweating,
• nausea,
• mild diarrhoea,
• frequent urination,
• rapid breathing and heartbeat,
• anxiety,
• restlessness.

REQUIRED: Friendly support, involve in communication with comrades, set specific tasks
to prepare for combat. Explain that this is a normal reaction at first, which will cease to
appear with the acquisition of combat experience.

PROHIBITED: Pay excessive attention to this condition, emphasize the seriousness of the
situation and aggravate it, ridicule, remain indifferent.

Nervous tremor

After an extreme situation, uncontrollable nervous trembling appears (a person cannot


voluntarilystop this reaction). This is how the body "releases" tension.

REQUIRED: Increase the shaking. Take the affected person by the shoulders and shake
him or her strongly, sharply for 10-15 seconds. Keep talking to him or her, otherwise
he/she may perceive your actions as an attack. After the reaction is completed, give him
or her the opportunity to rest.

PROHIBITED: to hug a person or hold him or her close; to cover him or her with something
warm; to calm a person down, to tell him or her to pull him or herself together.

Apathy

Apathy can occur after a long intense but unsuccessful activity, or in a situation when a
person suffers a serious failure, ceases to see the meaning of his activity, or when he
fails to savesomeone. Indifferent attitude to everything, lethargy, inhibition, slow speech
with long pauses.

There is a feeling of fatigue, such that there is no desire to move or speak: movements
and words are given with great force. There is emptiness in the soul, inability even to
show feelings. A person can stay in a state of apathy from several days to several weeks.
REQUIRED: Gently establish contact, get him/her to tell you about what happened,
express understanding and solidarity, remind him/her of friendship and comrades, give
simple and routine work, provide warm food and cigarettes, and inform the commander.
Talk to the affected person. Ask him/her a few simple questions, based on whether you
know him/her or not. "What is your name?", "How do you feel?", "Are you hungry?", etc. If a
person is left without support and not helped in this state, apathy can turn into
depression.

PROHIBITED: Show excessive pity, say "loud phrases" about solidarity and brotherhood,
give medicines (except in severe cases).

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Stupor

Stupor is one of the strongest protective reactions of the body. It occurs after severe
nervous shocks, when a person has spent so much energy on survival that he no longer
has the strength to contact the outside world. Signs:

• sharp decrease or absence of voluntary movements and speech;


• lack of reactions to external stimuli (noise, light, touch, pinching);
• "freezing" in a certain position, numbness, a state of complete immobility;
• possible tension of certain muscle groups.

REQUIRED:

1) Bend the victim's fingers on both hands and press them into the palm of the hand. The
thumbsshould be exposed outside.
2) Using the tips of the thumb and forefinger, massage the victim's points located on
the forehead, above the eyes, exactly in the middle between the hairline and
eyebrows, clearly above the pupils.
3) Place the palm of your free hand on the victim's chest. Adjust your breathing to the
rhythm of his breathing.

A person in a stupor can hear and see. Therefore, speak in his ear, quietly, slowly and
clearly what can cause strong emotions (preferably negative). Remember, it is necessary
to achieve the victim'sreaction by any means, to bring him out of the daze.

Motor excitation

Sometimes the shocks of a critical situation (explosions, natural disasters, etc.) are so
strong that a person ceases to understand what is happening around him. He is unable to
determine where the enemies are and where his friends are, where danger is and where
salvation is. A person loses the ability to think logically and make decisions, becomes like
"an animal running in a cage". "I ran, and when I woke up, it turned out that I did not know
where I was", "I was doing something, talking to someone, but I cannot remember
anything".
REQUIRED: let him or her talk, put him or her on a specific hard work, offer something to
eat or smoke, control behaviour, do not show other feelings, inform the commander. If
necessary, give a sedative: valerian, motherwort, peony infusion, sibazon tablet,
phenazepam, upon notification of the medical instructor.

If a person becomes like an animal fighting in a cage, use the "capture" technique: being
behind, slide your hands under the victim's arms, press him to you and slightly throw him
over. Pay close attention to his condition, do not enter into an argument.

Delusions and hallucinations

The main symptoms of delusions include false ideas or conclusions that cannot be
convinced of their falsity. Hallucinations are characterized by the fact that a person
experiences the feeling of the presence of imaginary objects that do not currently affect
the corresponding senses (hears voices, sees people, smells, etc.).

REQUIRED: Before the arrival of specialists, make sure that the person does not harm him
or herself or others. Take away from him/her objects that may pose a potential danger.
Move the affected person to a secluded place, do not leave him or her alone. Talk to the
affected person in acalm voice. Agree with him/her, do not try to convince him/her.

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It should be remembered that in such a situation it is impossible to convince the person.

Hysterics

Hysterical attempts to escape, uncontrollable crying and hysteria, running in circles.


REQUIRED: Firmly but kindly stop, offer something to eat or smoke, give a warm drink.
PROHIBITED: Shouting, hitting, pouring cold water, giving medicines (except in severe
cases).

Aggression

Aggressive behaviour is one of the ways the body tries to reduce high internal tension.
The manifestation of anger or aggression can occur for a long time and interfere with
the victim and his environment. Signs: irritation, dissatisfaction, anger (for any, even
insignificant reason), hitting others with hands or any objects, verbal abuse, swearing,
muscle tension, increased blood pressure.

REQUIRED: Give the victim the opportunity to "let off steam" (for example, to talk out, or
"beat" a pillow). Assign work involving high physical activity. Demonstrate kindness, even
if you do not agree with the victim, do not blame him, do not speak out about his actions,
otherwise aggressive behaviour will be directed at you.

PROHIBITED: You can't say "What kind of person are you?!", "How can you do this?!"

Fear

Fear is the tension of muscles (especially facial muscles), strong heartbeat, rapid
shallow breathing, reduced control of own behaviour.

Panic fear can lead to escape, cause numbness or, conversely, increased activity,
aggressive behaviour. In this case, the person does not control himself, does not realize
what he is doing and what is happening around.

REQUIRED: Put the person's hand on your wrist so that they feel your calm pulse. This will
be a signal for him: "I am with you now, you are not alone". Breathe deeply and evenly.
Encourage the victim to breathe in the same rhythm as you. If the victim speaks, listen to
him, express interest, understanding, sympathy. Give the victim a light massage of the
tensest muscles of the body. Remember, fear can be useful when it helps to avoid
danger. Therefore, you need to fight fear when it prevents you from living a normal life.

Crying

Unlike hysteria, there are no behavioural disorders.

Remember, there is no emotional discharge, relief, if a person holds back tears.

Make physical contact with the person (take his/her hand, put your hand on his/her
shoulder or back, pat his/her head). Make her feel that you are close. Apply the
techniques of "active listening" (they will help a person to pour out his grief).
Periodically say "yes", "aha", nodding your head, that is, confirm that you listen and
sympathize. Repeat after the person fragments of phrases in which they express
feelings; talk about your feelings and the feelings of the person. Give the person the
opportunity to cry and speak out, "to pour out grief, fear, resentment". Do not leave the
person alone. Do not try to calm them down. Do not ask questions, do not give advice.

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After a traumatic event, the following reactions are typical: repeated flashes of
memories, sadness, sadness, dreams about the event, avoidance of reminders of the
event, lack of enthusiasm, indifference, fatigue, emotional detachment.

The following will help to reduce the negative impact of a traumatic event: try to think
about something else, help others, make sure you know what happened, not what you
thought happened, understand how you feel, tell others about it, think about the
meaning of life after the event, make plans for the future. Some of these tips are in
contradiction, but you have to find a place for all of them!

Self-regulation

The following exercises are aimed at developing voluntary regulation of one's behaviour
and emotional states. These skills are necessary in different life situations:

1) Situations that force a person to be in a state of prolonged tension, cause severe


stress. These are such periods of life when a person is forced to work in a constant
"overload" mode, on the verge of their functional capabilities.

2) Situations of sudden changes in living conditions, the need to make important and
responsible decisions.

3) Situations associated with high risk. These include extreme situations, and any
activity associated with a high level of danger (in particular, many sports).

The one who loses the ability to self-regulate in case of danger reacts inadequately:
either starts topanic or "falls into a stupor". In most cases, this leads to a tragic outcome.
In such situations, it is important to take control of your reactions, maintain the ability to
objectively analyze the situation and make informed decisions.

A person with self-regulation skills can quickly achieve success.

Techniques of self-regulation of emotional states and behavioural reactions can be


diverse.

First of all, they provide internal "detachment" from sources of anxiety, maintaining
equanimity, despite the circumstances.
Secondly, they allow you to manage your behaviour not only in this situation, but
further in life,set goals, determine your life priorities, etc.
Thirdly, they can be aimed at changing the state at a given moment in time: for
example, toquickly get rid of tension through relaxation.

Exercise "Lampshade"

Sit down, relax and close your eyes. "Imagine that inside you, at the level of your chest,
there is a bright lamp covered with a shade. When the light falls down, you feel warm,
calm and comfortable
... But sometimes, when we start to get nervous, the lampshade lifts the lamp up... Harsh
light hits our eyes, blinds us, it becomes hot and uncomfortable. Imagine such a situation
... But it is in our power to fix it. Imagine how the lampshade slowly and smoothly turns
down, takes a normal position... The blinding light disappears, you feel warm, cosy and
comfortable again ".

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This technique can be used for express regulation of your emotional state, quick stress
relief.

Exercise "Lemon"

Imagine that you have a lemon in your left hand. Clench your hands into a fist so hard
that the juice begins to drip from the lemon. Harder. Even harder. Now drop the lemon
and feel how your hand relaxed, how pleasant and calm it is. Squeeze the lemon again
tightly and firmly ... 3 times with each hand.

Exercise " The Fly"

Imagine that a fly has landed on your nose and you need to drive it away without the help
of your hands. Twist your nose to the right and left, wrinkle it, tense all the muscles of
your face... And now relax your face. The fly has flown away. Feel the state of calm
spreading pleasantly over your face... 3 times.

Exercise "Icicle" ("Ice cream")

Stand up, close your eyes, raise your hands up. Imagine that you are an icicle or ice cream.
Tense all the muscles of your body. Remember these feelings. Stay in this position for 1-2
minutes. Then imagine that under the influence of the sun's heat you begin to melt
slowly, relax your hands gradually, then the muscles of the shoulders, neck, body, legs,
etc. Remember the sensations in a state of relaxation. Perform the exercise until you
reach the optimal psycho-emotional state. This exercise can be performed lying on the
floor.

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FIELDCRAFT

Keep fighting – you are sure to win! God helps you in your fight! Борітеся – поборете, Вам бог помагає!
For fame and freedom march with you, And right is on your side! За вас правда, за вас сила і воля святая!

Battlefield Discipline. There are those who view Battlefield Discipline as an unnecessary
hindrance and at odds with the operational environment. They miss the point. It is about
the application of standards that will maintain operational effectiveness and projecting a
justified image of professionalism, rather than parade ground smartness. Inevitably, the
enforcement of good Battlefield Discipline will be difficult at times: requiring leadership
by example, diligence, energy and moral courage from the soldier.

Camouflage and Concealment

The enemy is looking for you. Do not make it easy for them; ensure you merge into your
surroundings as much as possible. Remember, the person who sees the opposition first
without being seen has the advantage.

Pay attention to

Shape. Blend in with your surrounding and break up your distinctive human shape as
much aspossible.

Shadow. Keep in the shadows of larger objects and ensure your shadow is not alerting
the enemyto your location.

Silhouette. Do not stand against the skyline or lean out of windows.

Texture. Do not contrast with your surrounding and ensure neither you nor your
equipmentshines.

Spacing. Keep spread out. Avoid regular spacing of personnel; keep vehicles and tents
etc undercam nets.

Movement. Movement must be slow and cautious. Remember the human eye is drawn
to fastmovement, especially at night.

Successful camouflage and concealment requires your self-discipline


• Do not sit in the sun but remain in shadow when in a position likely to be
overlooked bythe enemy.

• At night do not smoke, light fires, or use torch light unless permission is given,
and it isabsolutely necessary.

• Always follow the briefed track plans when in harbour areas.

• Wear and replace cam cream as the threat dictates.

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Taking a Fire Position

The ideal fire position offers:

a) Full use of personal weapons.


b) Protection from high explosive and small arms fire.
c) Cover from view and a concealed route in and out.
d) An unobstructed view of a wide and deep arc of fire.

Actions on mortar fire

The mortar has several features that must be known. Firstly, the mine flies at subsonic
speed on a steep trajectory. This means that you can hear a shot and a characteristic
whistling sound from the mine before it explodes. Experienced fighters determine by
the sound in which direction it is flying, whether it is approaching (the sound changes
from low to high frequencies) or already moving away during the flight. In combat
conditions, such skills should be acquired as soon as possible. Secondly, the mine
explodes when it hits the ground, and the fragments fly up and to the sides. Therefore, a
car or a person is a very vulnerable target. If a fighter is lying down at the time of the mine
explosion, the likelihood of being hit by shrapnel is sharply reduced. Therefore, when you
hear the sound of a mine (or the warning cry of an experienced comrade), immediately
fall to the ground and press into it harder, covering your head with your hands.

The 82-mm mine fragments are light. The explosion of a three kilogram mine produces
400-600 fragments. Any obstacle - brick, tree, concrete pillar - can unpredictably change
the direction of their flight. For the same reason, mine fragments do not penetrate more
or less serious obstacles well. A stone wall, a parapet, a sandbag, a fallen tree trunk, a
helmet, a bulletproof vest - all this can help.

If the enemy is firing indiscriminately on the square, it is advisable to stay back for 5-10
minutes.

Sometimes the mortar launchers fire one or two mortar shells (smoke or incendiary)
towards the target and at the place of its rupture make corrections and turn on rapid fire
with the whole battery to destroy the target. So after the first explosion, the party has a
little time to find shelter and lie down.

From the experience, mortars are fired in "series": 6-8 shots, a pause of several minutes,
then again 6-8 shots to finish. Usually there are no more than three such series. It is
possible to firefrom one, two or three mortars (three mortar crews are part of a platoon).

Do not even think about getting up during the shelling. Lie where you fell. During the
pause, you can inspect the area, move to a gap, pit, funnel. The lower you lie, the more
chances to survive the shelling without consequences. Trenches, dugouts, structures
made of concrete blocks, strong brick walls are quite reliable protection against mortars.
Even in an open ground you can find a cover.

It is not a good idea to sit out the shelling in a woodblock or bushes. The mine's fuse will
be triggered when it hits the branches and the mine will be detonated by air, which will
increase the area of damage by fragments. During the pause, be ready for the next
"series" of shelling, the approach of which will be warned by the same whistling sound.

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

Basic rules of survival during mortar attack:

1) Listen to sounds, learn to recognize and analyze them.


2) When under fire, immediately fall down and press yourself to the ground. Learn to
do thisbefore the mines start falling - it is in your first care.
3) Do not forget to open your mouth, it will save your eardrums.
4) Whatever happens, in no case should you get up or stand up. Do not try to escape
from the shelling zone - mines and shrapnel are still faster than you. Wait until you
hear, for example, 8-10 explosions, then wait at least three minutes, then quickly
change your position and move to the shelter. Even if someone nearby needs help -
provide it after the shelling and in the shelter, otherwise you will most likely need
help as well.
5) Use artificial and natural shelters and folds of the terrain. You can hide in them in
between a series of shots.
6) Move only at a crawl. If you came under fire in the field and waited it out, leave the
shelling zone crawling, so as not to be noticed and not to cause repeated shelling.
7) If you are in an area where mortar shelling is possible, do not take off your
bulletproof vest and helmet. Third or fourth class bulletproof vests stop mortar
fragments quite reliably.
8) It happens that some mines do not explode (soft ground, detonator failed to work)
and stick out of the ground with their shanks. In no case do not touch them. The
probability ofexplosion is extremely high.
9) Dig trenches and build dugouts with strong ceilings. The communication paths
should be zigzag. In case a mine hits a trench, the fragmentation will be limited to
the straight segment only.
10) Do not hesitate to train and practice your actions during the shelling in advance.
Remember: difficult to train, easy to act in strike zone.
11) If you come under mortar fire during the march on the "armour", dive inside. The task
of the APC driver (mechanic-driver of the BMP) is to get out of the hit zone at full
speed. By stopping and dismounting, you turn into an ideal, stationary target for
mortars.
12) Keep snipers in sight of places where the fire adjuster may be. As a rule, these are
ruins, tall buildings and trees in the line of sight from your location, which offer a
good overview of the area. A person with binoculars and a radio (phone) is target
number 1.

Scanning and Searching

Divide ground into areas of foreground, middle distance and distance.

Scan each area horizontally, starting with the foreground, using short overlapping
movements.

Move the head rather than just the eyes to minimise fatigue but be aware of giving your
positionaway by sudden movement.

Once horizontal scanning is complete scan along the line of any features angled away
from yourposition.

At any time during scanning, you see something of interest, such as a possible enemy
position, notice movement or possible camouflage, you should search this area.
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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

The SUSAT can be used to aid searching, as can binoculars; or if available thermal sights
and optical scopes can also be employed.

Night Vision

Night adaptation of the eyes takes 30-45 minutes.

Work using red light, if suitable to the task, as this will not affect your night adaptation.

Objects can be seen better at night if you do not stare straight at them. Look above,
below or to the side of an object you are observing

Hand Signals

Field signals give a means of conversing silently. They should be used whenever possible
and should be practised constantly. Before a signal is given the attention of the
platoon or sectionmust be attracted. Here are four possible methods:

a) Single whistle blast (during fire contact only).

b) Snapping forefinger and thumb.

c) Knocking rifle butt with knuckles.

d) Silent whistle.

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

DIGITS

FORMATION

Column File Line Arrowhead


ORDERS

Cover me Halt Move forward Come here

Crouch Faster Silence Don’t move Bypass

NOTIFICATIONS

Roger Do not understand You Me (I, myself)

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

NOTIFICATIONS

Impossible I’m in charge Over there Enter this way

I hear I see Get ready Reload

Movement on the battlefield

In all types of battles, movement is the basis of combat operations. Depending on the
nature of the terrain, conditions, situation and enemy fire, the soldier, being in foot
formation, can move: walk, run, or crawl.

Accelerated step or run

Accelerated step or run (at full height or


crouching) is used to overcome terrain
inaccessible to observation and enemy
fire. The pace of accelerated walking is
on average 130-140 steps per 1 minute,
the step length is 80-90 cm. To lengthen
the step, it is necessary to unbend the
leg that is behind faster and stronger,
and to bring the second leg with the hip
forward more. Since prolonged
movement at an accelerated pace is very tiring, it is advisable to alternate walking and
running when moving at high speed. In this way, the soldier moves during the attack,
keeping the weapon in a position of readiness for immediate fire.

Crouching walking

Crouching walking is used for covert movement in terrain with low shelters (low bushes,
tall grass, ditches, etc.). You need to bend your knees, move your body forward, look in
front of you and move with a small step. All movements are performed freely, without
tension.

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

Movement upwards is carried out in shortened steps


with the body tilted forward. In case of significant
steepness of ascent it is better to make zigzags, i.e.
to move alternately to the right and left side of the
slope on slightly bent legs, resting on the edges of
the soles of the feet on the ledges of the mountain.
You can also go straight up the slopes, holding
branches, bushes, thick grass, etc. with your hands;
put your feet on the whole foot "herringbone", with
the socks spread apart.

You can go down the slope with a free step, put your foot on the heel, the body is
deflected back. From a steep slope you can go down sideways, with side steps, holding on
to the bumps of the slope.

Movement on rough and slippery ground is carried out in short steps; the legs should be
moved quickly so that they do not have time to get deeply bogged down or slip off the
support. The foot should be placed on the entire foot, trying to choose harder areas for
support: furrows, ledges, roots.

Long distances are overcome by slow running. The body during running is tilted forward a
little more than when walking. Running pace - 150-160 steps per 1 minute, step length -
70-90 cm.

Running at an average pace is carried out with a free marching step. The body in this case
is kept slightly tilted forward. Energetically push off with the leg that is behind, and,
bending it at the knee, bring the hip forward and up and put on the whole foot. The lower
leg is not brought very forward, and the foot is placed on the ground far from the
projection of the centre of gravity of the body. Running pace - 165-180 steps per 1
minute, step length - 85-90 cm.

Speed run is used to move from the shelter to combat and transport vehicles, scatter
before overcoming obstacles. The body tilts forward much more than when running at an
average pace, and the kick and arm movement are even more energetic. The increase in
stride length is providedby pushing the leg behind and quickly moving it forward with the
hip. After pushing off, the leg is brought forward bent at the knee and gently placed on
the front of the foot with subsequent support on the entire foot. Running pace - 180-200
steps per 1 minute, stride length - 120-150 cm.

Bounds

Running bounds is used to quickly approach the enemy in open terrain. The length of the
run depends on the terrain and intensity of enemy fire and should be 20-40 steps on
average. The more open the terrain and the stronger the fire, the shorter the run should
be.

In order to run from the prone position, you must first put the weapon on the safety,
determine the path of movement and possible shelter on the warning command, then
quickly run to the designated place on the executive command. At the place of stopping,
lie down on the ground, crawl a little to the side and, having reached the place indicated
by the command, prepare to fire.

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

Crawling

Crawling is used for unnoticed approach to the enemy and covertly overcoming terrain
with little cover, uneven terrain and under enemy observation or fire.

High Crawl
Low Crawl

Side Crawl

Depending on the situation, terrain and enemy fire, the soldier can crawl:
Crawl:

• to lie down on the ground, take the weapon by the sling near the upper grip with
the right hand and place it on the forearm of the right hand;
• to pull up the right (or left) leg and at the same time push the left (right) arm as far
as possible, pushing off with the bent leg, move forward, pull up the other leg,
extend the other arm and continue to move in the same way, pressing the weapon
to yourself.

From the experience of units in the ATO:

• option 1 - to put the assault rifle on the forearms of both hands while crawling
with support on the elbows;
• option 2 - to put the butt of the assault rifle on the forearm of the left hand,
holding the assault rifle with the right hand by the trigger) (for left-handed
soldiers - vice versa).

On the battlefield, the crawl is performed on the elbows and forearms with alternate
pushing off with the legs, weapons - at the ready. At the same time, the chest and hips do
not come off the ground, the serviceman looks straight ahead, without losing sight of the
battlefield and without raising his head high.

Monkey crawl:

Kneel down and, leaning on the forearms or hands, raise the bent right (left) leg to the
chest, while pushing the left (right) arm forward; move the body forward until the right
(left) leg is fully straightened, while pulling up the other bent leg, and, pushing the
second arm forward, continue to move; weapon position - with support on forearms - in
the same way as when crawling in Plast style; with support on hands - in the right hand.

Side crawl:

To lie on the left side, pull forward the left leg and bend the knee, lean on the forearm of
the left hand, rest the heel of the right foot on the ground as close to yourself as
possible; extend the right leg, push the body forward; without changing the position,
continue to move; hold the weapon with the right hand, placing it on the hip of the left
leg.

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When crawling in any way, the weapon should be protected from shocks and
contamination, especially from getting earth into the barrel channel.

A well-trained soldier is able to move quickly and unnoticed on the battlefield, thus
giving himan advantage over the enemy.

Section Formations

There are four basic section formations which are as follows:

a) Single file.

b) File.

c) Arrowhead.

d) Extended line.

Single File

This is useful for following linear features such as hedges, ditches, walls and narrow
tracks. Apossible order of march is shown opposite. Each man should follow in the path of
the leading man.
Advantages:

• Least vulnerable to fire from a


flank.
• Useful for moving along linear
features such as hedges or
ditches which give cover.
• Good for control at night, in poor
visibility or close country.
• Good for negotiating a narrow
gap in an obstacle, e.g.,
minefield.
• The only possible formation in
some conditions, e.g., thick jungle

Disadvantages:
• Bad for fire production to the front.
• Vulnerable to frontal fire.
• Bad for observation to the flanks as men tend to allow their eyes to rest on the
person infront of them.
• Passage of commands and information is slow.

File

File may be used when a path or track is wide enough to permit


alternate men to move on opposite sides of the track. A possible
order of march is shown opposite Depending on the threat, the
commander may decide to lead one column with LSW or the anti -
tank weapon
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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

Advantages:

• Easy to control.
•Useful formation at night
Disadvantages:

• Presents a concentrated target.


Arrowhead

Arrowhead is probably the best for moving on a broad front in open country.

Advantages:

• Less vulnerable to frontal fire.

• Good for fire production.

• Good for crossing open country.


Disadvantages:

• Control more difficult than in some formations.

• More vulnerable to enfilade fire (flanking fire).

Extended Line

Extended line is used on occasions as an assault


formation, often as a base from which to start fire &
manoeuvre (F&M) but is difficult to control (see
above).

Methods of Judging Distance

An object may seem closer than it actually is under the following conditions:

a) The light is bright, or the sun is shining from behind the observer.
b) It is larger in size than other object surrounding it.
c) It is higher than the observer.

An object may seem further away than it actually is under the following conditions:

a) The light is poor or the sun in directly in front of the observer.


b) It is smaller than the objects around it.
c) You are looking across a valley or down a street.
d) You are lying down

What are the methods of Judging Distance?

Unit of Measure

All ground between you and the target must be visible to use this method.

Any unit of measure that is familiar to you can be used, for example a football pitch
whichis approximately 100 metres long.

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

Estimate how many units of this measure can be placed between your position and
thetarget. This method is not reliable for ranges more than 400 metres.

Appearance Method

This method compares an object with its surroundings. You must know what objects
look like atvarious distances. A good indication is given by the amount of detail visible:

a) At 100 metres - a person is clear in all detail.

b) At 200 metres - a person is clear in all detail the colour of the skin and
equipment isidentifiable but not 100% clear.

c) At 300 metres - a clear body outline can be seen, face colour is visible, but all
other detailsare blurred.

d) Conditions affecting appearance

• The light is bright, or the sun is shining from behind the observer.
• They are brighter than the objects around them.
• There is dead ground between them and the observer.
• They are higher than the observer.
e) Objects seem further away
• The light is bad, or the sun is in the observer’s eyes.
• They are smaller than the objects around them.
• Looking across a valley or down a street.
• The observer is lying down.

What are the aids for Judging Distance?

Key Ranges

If the range to any area or object in an arc is known, it is possible to use that known range
to judge the distance to nearby areas or objects. Key ranges may have been obtained
using either of the methods of judging distance, by using a laser range finder, by maps or
from targets that have already been successfully engaged with known sight settings.
Halving

This is a useful aid out to a maximum of 1000 metres. To use this aid, select an area or
object midway between you and the target and in direct line with the target. Then using
the Unit of Measure or Appearance method judge the distance to the midway area or
object. Then by doubling the figure you estimated you will have reached a reasonably
accurate judgement of the range to the intended target. It is generally easier to judge the
distance to closer objects however, care must be taken as any error in judging distance
to the halfway point will be doubled in the final solution.

Bracketing

This technique is a useful aid under most conditions. It requires you to use the
Appearance or Unit of Measure method to estimate the maximum feasible distance to
the object and then the minimum possible distance. The estimate of the actual distance
should be the middle of the two extremes e.g. maximum distance 800 metres, minimum
distance 500 metres - the estimated distance = 650 metres.
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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

Squad Average

To use this aid, you need to be working in a group, such as a fire team or a section. It
requires everyone to individually work out the distance to the target; this can be done
using the

Unit of Measure or Appearance method or any of the aids to judging distance that you are
familiar with. However, the distance judged must be an individual effort. Because some
soldiers tend to overestimate, and others underestimate their errors will cancel out. By
taking an average of the
estimates, an accurate range can often be produced. For example, three observers
separately determined the ranges to the target and got the results of 150m, 200m and
250m. By the formula of the average value we get: (150+200+250)/3=200м.

Hand Angles

This method is used for difficult targets at longer ranges. The target may be indicated
using a reference point together with a hand angle. To read hand angles the left arm
should be outstretched from the shoulder and
one eye closed. Average hand angles are:

• Index finger = 30 mils


• Index finger and middle finger = 60 mils
• Two knuckles = 80 mils
• Four knuckles = 160 mils

However, this may vary between each individual,


so each soldier should obtain their personal
measurement by using a scale or by using a
compass in the field.

The formula is used to measure the distance:


Where: D = Distance to target, S =
Size oftarget, M = Measurement in
mils.

To use this formula, soldiers must also know the


linear dimensions of the enemy vehicle. If, for
example, a target is known to be 1.5 m wide (1500 mm) visible through a sight with a
measured angle of 2.8 mils, the distance can be determined as follows:

Target Indication

Arc of Fire

This is a known area where targets are likely to be. It is indicated in the following
sequence:

• Axis. The centre of the arc.


• Left and Right Arc. Indicate the extent of the arc.

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

• Reference Points – Prominent


and permanent object on the ground
can be used as reference points. They
will be given a name and range, and if
required a specific point will also be
nominated. For example, “1/4 Left - red
roof hut, Base centre of doorway will be
known as hut, range 300”.
Landmarks - conspicuous and fixed objects on
the ground can be used as these reference
points. They will be given a name and range
and, if required, a specific number will also be
assigned. For example, the landmark "1/4 left -
300 m, red-roofed cottage, main centre of
doorway" will be marked as "cottage, distance
300".
Direct Method

This method is used to indicate obvious


targets. The range, where to look and a description are given.

Example, 100 - Half left - 2 enemy in open.


Reference Point Method

Used to indicate less obvious targets. It may be used together with the direct method
and wordssuch as above, below, slightly, left or right.

Example, 300 - Gate (reference point) - 1 man by each gatepost.

Clock-Ray Method

This method is used to indicate less obvious targets that may hard to locate using the
other methods discussed in this guide. Rather than using the location of the target on its

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

own we use an obvious reference point such as a signpost, bridge, gate, or other such
object as a reference. Then by using an imaginary clock face over that object you can
give an indication to the target itself. We also give the range to the target rather than
the referencepoint.
Example – Using the tower which is
400m away to indicate an enemy by a
small tree who is 300m away (as in the
following picture) we would give the
following Indication - “300
- Tower – Go right 4 O’clock - small tree
– left edge – Enemy.

Tracer Method

This method is used to indicate


extremely difficult targets. A target
indication is given to bring you onto the
target area and a tracer round is fired.
The fall of shot is then used as the
reference point to locate the enemy.

Binoculars

Binoculars are another method of target


indication, however are normally only issued and used at command level.

Reaction to Fire Control Orders

Having identified a target using the methods in the previous section, a fire control order
is given by the commander. Fire Control Orders (FCO) are used to bring fire to bear on the
enemy quickly and effective

We use the following sequence which can be remembered as GRIT

G – Group. This is who will react and can be the whole Section or individuals.

R – Range. The range to the target allowing you to set sights and make ready if required.

I – Indication. The Section Commander will use one of the methods previously covered to
ensure everyone can see the target. This will end with “Enemy” allowing you to align onto
target.

T – Type. What type of fire is to be used depending on the situation.

The order is completed with some different commands which include; “Fire”, ’’Await my
Order’’ or‘’Watch and Shoot’’.

Once the task is complete the word of command “Stop” is used. The word of command
“Go On” may be issued if there is a lull in any given FCO.

Types of Fire Control Orders

Full. Given if there is sufficient time.

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

“Delta Fire Team


300 Red Roof hut. Right 5 o’clock from hut gate.
Base left edge of gateEnemy.
Fire”
Brief. Given when there is little time and the target is obvious.

“Section.
Quarter right -Enemy.
Rapid Fire”

Delayed. Given when the movements of friendly forces or the enemy are known or can be
guessed.
“Section.
200. Factory. Right 4 o’clock tree line, on road,
moving right to left - Enemy.
Rapid – await my order… Fire!”

Individual. Given when it is impractical for the commander to control the time to open
fire, so hepasses the responsibility to the individual(s) concerned.
“Rifle number 2 and 3.
300. Church. Top left window of tower - Enemy.
Watch and shoot”

Section Battle Drills

The section hasty attack may take place from the line of march or as part of a contact
when the lead section may be required to mount a hasty attack to overcome a pocket of
resistance or determine the strength of the enemy. There are 6 section battle drills:

1) Preparation.
2) Reaction to effective enemy fire.
3) Locating the enemy.
4) Suppressing the enemy.
5) The attack.
6) Regroup.

Preparation

Preparation for battle will take place prior to the start of the task. Section/Patrol
commandersmust ensure:
Protection. That correct Personal Protective Equipment is worn and sentries are briefed
and posted.

Ammunition. That ammunition is clean and magazines and grenades are properly
distributed. Flank men in open country should have smoke grenades, depending on the
direction of the wind. Shoulder launched weapon systems are clean and checked that
they can be prepared for firing quickly.

Weapons. That weapons are clean, serviceable and appropriately oiled. Laser Light
Module function check is to be carried out.

Personal Camouflage. That personal camouflage is satisfactory and corresponds to the


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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

environment that the task is being conducted in.

Equipment. A full check of personal equipment and equipment that is required for the
specific task is present, held by the right person and functions correctly. To reduce the
weight burden commanders should check that unnecessary items are not taken and that
equipment is correctly distributed within the section.

Radios. Functional checks on radios and ECM are to be carried out.

Specialist Equipment. Specialist equipment including specialist personnel attached to


the section should be correctly briefed and equipment checked for operation and
serviceability.

Orders. Context on the Operation or Patrol will proceed

Reaction to Effective Enemy Fire

On operations the enemy presence is usually indicated by their fire. The speedy reaction
and the efficient use of cover by our troops can help survival and bring about the
destruction of the enemyin battle.

We use the method known as RTR to do this, which stands for the following:

R - Return fire. Quickly fire a couple of rounds in general direction of enemy.

T - Take cover. Dash, down and crawl into cover. Remember this may be behind you. Once
in observe and try to locate the enemy or listen for target indication from other Section
members.

R - Return appropriate fire. As ordered by Section Commander or best suited.

Locating the Enemy

Failure to locate the enemy may prevent the section from moving without suffering
heavy casualties. It could lead rapidly to loss of initiative by the section and the halting of
the platoon advance. There are three stages to this drill:

Observation. Look in the area from which the thump came. The time between the crack
and the thump gives a clue to the range, each second representing 600 metres. Look for
movement, smoke, radio antennas or anything unusual. If nothing is seen after thirty
seconds or so, it is unlikely that the enemy will be located by observation.

Fire. The section commander should give a fire control order to two rifle men to fire
shots into likely cover. The rest of the section should keep a careful watch on their arcs
of observation. If there is no answering fire, the section commander should try some
other likely target.

Target Indication. Any member of the section can do this, ideally using Tracer, laser or
any other appropriate means.

Suppressing the Enemy

As soon as the section commander has identified the enemy position of greatest threat
to the section, they must give a fire control order to bring concentrated fire to bear onto
that position. The aim of this fire is to suppress the enemy and thereby regain initiative

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

prior to mounting an attack at either section, platoon or company level. Suppressive fire
will also provide cover for withdrawal of casualties, movement off exposed ground or to
better fire positions and regrouping.

Although the section commander will use the section’s organic weapons to suppress the
enemy, they may also be able to call on or make use of suppressive fire from air, aviation,
artillery, mortars and direct fire weapons such as tanks, and medium and heavy machine
guns. In such circumstances it may still be necessary for the section assaulting an
individual position to provide suppressive fire from its own organic weapons.

Attack

The Attack the systematic clearing or killing of the enemy.


Without doubt it is the most difficult stage as it is unlikely
that all enemy trenches or bunker positions will have been
located. The key to success in this type of operation is
teamwork both within the section and platoon.

This is broken down into 4 stages:

1) Attack Briefs. Attack briefs should be as concise as


possible andshould as a minimum consist of the following:

Section Mission — “Destroy enemy position at GR 123 456”.

Concept of Operations — “Section left/right flanking


breaking down into assault and point of fire pair”. Left or
right flanking merely indicates which side of the fire
support team the assaultfire team is to work.

Fire Team Tasks — “C assault, assault team is…./ Point of


fire is…. D fire sp”.

“Any Questions? — Move now”

2) The Assault. F & M will be used to move the


section from the area where contact is made
onto the objective which at section level is
likely to be a single trench, sniper or bunker.
Although all movement in the open must be
covered by fire and must be carried out as
quickly as possible to conserve ammunition,
casualties should not be risked needlessly.
During this phase the Section normal
broken down in totwo teams:

Assault Team. The assault fire team could


either assault as an entity or it can break
down into pairs. In certain circumstances
such as an assault on a bunker loophole, it may be appropriate for one pair to
provide local fire support for the other. The fire support pair is then known as the
‘Point of Fire’. Maximising its sustained fire capability and suitability to short range
engagements. Care must be taken however with ammunition conservation.

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

Fire Support Team. As the assault closes, the fire support team should fire at the
objective for as long as possible before switching its fire onto other enemy positions.
The section 2IC must be alert to deal with any previously unseen enemy positions
which may be concentrating its fire onto the assault troops and to call for indirect
fire.

3) Fighting Through:
a) When the assault team arrives on the objective it should fight through using F & M.
The section commander will need to re-assess the situation and issue further snap
orders before assaulting depth positions.

b) As individual enemy positions are assaulted, fire support must be provided. The
assaulting troops must be aware of threats to their flanks and be prepared to go
firm to provide fire support to other assaulting troops who can clear these threats.
Local smoke must be available and the use of SLW should be considered.

c) The fire support team must be prepared at this stage to prevent enemy
interference from the flanks or beyond the objective. It must also be ready to
move forward automatically as soon as the assault fire team is established of the
objective.

d) During the fight through the section commander must continually re-estimate the
situationand issue orders to reflect the changing battle

4) Exploitation:

As soon as the objective is taken the section commander should immediately seek
ways to exploit their success either by continuing the assault or by providing fire
support for other attacks. The tempo of the attack must be sustained. A limit of
exploitation should only be given if there is a danger of the section running into
another assault; it should never be given as a routine control measure. It is likely,
therefore, to be allocated on the ground by the platoon commander to prevent a
friendly fire incident. Rapid and accurate passage of information will be essential to
successful exploitation.

Regrouping

Regrouping will only take place when the section can assault no further due to enemy
resistance, casualties, lack of ammunition or the platoon commander’s mission being
achieved. Regrouping is not to take place as an automatic drill once an objective is taken;
the section commander is to continue the assault in line with the platoon commander’s
intent. When regrouping becomes necessary the following actions should happen:

a) The section commander will:


• Allot arcs and fire tasks to each rifleman paying particular attention to key
weaponsystems.
• Check on casualties and ammunition, then report details to the platoon
sergeant.
• Arrange for redistribution of ammunition.
• Supervise digging of trenches.
• Ensure that prisoners of war (PW) and captured equipment are sent to platoon
HQ
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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

• If necessary check with the platoon commander and confirm future intentions.

b) The fire support team will:


• Rejoin the assault fire team as quickly as possible (unless otherwise ordered)
once the section has gone firm on the objective. Often the section commander
will give a prearranged signal for the fire support team to close up if they have
not done so automatically.
• Check the weapons and redistribute ammunition.

c) Rifleman should:
• Check weapons and equipment.
• Check ammunition and grenades.
• Recharge all magazines.

In principle the section commander is responsible for the tactical disposition of the
section (arcs, positions, etc), whilst the 2IC deals with administrative reorganization
(ammunition, casualties, etc). It should be stressed that during the fight through the
completion of the mission is critical. Casualties are therefore left until the whole position
is cleared.

Platoon Battle Drills

Section Battle Drills remain applicable within the framework of the 4 platoon Battle Drills
set out below:
a) Battle Preparation.
b) Reaction to any section coming under effective enemy fire.
c) The Attack.
d) Reorganisation. (Reorganisation is only to take place when the platoon can assault no
further due to enemy resistance, casualties, lack of ammunition or the mission has
been achieved).

Types of patrol

All patrols fall into one of the following three types:


• Reconnaissance patrols;
• Standing patrols;
• Fighting patrols.

Reconnaissance patrols

Reconnaissance patrols gain information by observation and stealth. Their composition


is the minimum strength required for the task and must be a balance of concealment and
the ability to deal with an incident such as CASEVAC/CPERS. Equipment must include a
radio and should include weapons appropriate to the nature of the objective, the terrain
and the enemy threat. Recce patrols avoid fighting except in self defence or to take
advantage of an unusual opportunity.

The tasks of reconnaissance patrols include:

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

• Collecting topographical information.


• Locating enemy positions.
• Obtaining details of enemy positions, minefields and obstacles.
• Obtaining information on enemy equipment, habits and movement.
• Checking our own minefields and obstacles.
• Conducting radiac or chemical surveys of areas contaminated by fallout or
chemical attack.

Standing patrols

Standing patrols are established to give warning of enemy movements by watching likely
approaches and covering dead ground. They will normally provide information that will be
used to execute an existing contingency plan but must be prepared to be involved in
the execution using its own organic weapons systems. The standing patrol’s task and
location will be given in the battalion STAP which in turn will be driven by the IPB. It must
have communications to report sightings and call for indirect fire and should have night
vision aids. The main tasks are to:

• Watch and listen on likely enemy approaches.

• Cover dead ground both in front of and between defended localities.

• Cover minefields and obstacles which cannot be covered from the main
position. This could include guarding open minefield lanes.

• In mobile defence, prevent infiltration into unoccupied hides or battle


positions.

Standing patrols move into position using stealth and try to remain concealed until they
are required to fight or withdraw. They should be equipped with weapons appropriate to
the terrain and nature of the enemy threat. The employment of RGS does not remove the
need for standing patrols, indeed they may be employed to check or confirm the alarm of
a remote sensor or cluster them. The standing patrol has many similarities to an OP. The
main differences are in the tasking, the standing patrol may be tasked to observe but will
normally have an action associated with the observation task that it is expected to be
able to carry out whereas an OP will usually only observe and report for others to act.

Fighting patrols

Fighting patrols is tasked to harass, ambush, attack or create a diversion. It is prepared


and equipped to fight at company level. A fighting patrol might be called a Raid. The tasks
that fighting patrols may be given include:

• Denying enemy patrols freedom of action.

• Harassing or disrupting enemy working parties.

• Distracting enemy attention as part of a deception plan.

• Carrying out raids.

• Anti-armour and anti-personnel ambushing.

• Protecting reconnaissance and working parties of other arms and OPs.


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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

• Act as a standby patrol.

Fighting patrols are rarely less than two sections and a HQ. A platoon offers the ideal
organisation for a fighting patrol in terms of control, firepower and strength.

Section Break Contact Drills

At some point whilst on operations you will be required to break contact with the enemy,
either to minimize casualties or to get into a more favourable position, in any case the
drills to be employed must be known by all section members so that the drill is second
nature.

Break Contact Drills – Preparation

All sections and other small sized patrol groupings should practice their break contact
drills untilthey are second nature. As will be described later, there are different drills
depending if you are in open country, sparse woodland or channelled on a track and
whether the enemy engages youfrom front, side or rear.

Weapon States

Weapon states will be governed by the situation and the Rules of Engagement under
which you are operating. If the legal requirements allow it, the point soldier (or second if
the lead soldier is operating C-IED equipment) should have their rifle set to automatic.
They are to be ready to fire short (approximately 3-4 round) controlled bursts. Where
tracer rounds are available, the top 2 rounds should be Ball, followed by 2-4 rounds of
Tracer to assist target indication. A number of tracer rounds could also be loaded close to
the bottom of the magazine to indicate when you are running low.

Break Contact Drills – Reaction to contact with the enemy

Whether the enemy open fire first or you have a moment’s advantage, it is vital that the
followingtakes place immediately:

a) Any member of the patrol who realises what is happening shouts ‘contact front’
(left/right or rear as applicable) and immediately opens fire.

b) For the drill to be successful, the patrol must gain or retain the initiative and
rapidly get out of the Killing Area. All patrol members in a safe position to do so are
to immediately fire at the identified enemy. The lead soldier and those with LMGs
will fire short, controlled bursts. Everyone else should repeatedly fire two aimed
single shots in quick succession (‘double tap’). It is imperative that an
overwhelming weight of fire is provided as swiftly as possible. It is recognized that
the initial return of fire may be largely inaccurate but it will disrupt enemy fire by
making them take cover and gain you vital seconds.

c) The instant that fire support is being provided, rearward movement is to begin.
The golden rule remains no movement without fire.

d) The patrol moves rearward, individually, then in pairs (see Figs 6-1 to 6-4) until it
forms a baseline. It then conducts Fire team F&M rearward until contact has been
broken and a safe Rally Point is identified.

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

Break Contact Drills – Reorganisation (‘Reorg’) at Rally Point

At the Rally Point, the Section/Patrol commander will check that all members of the
patrol arepresent, ensure that ammunition is redistributed if necessary and give quick
battle orders.

Baseline Break Contact Drills

Introduction. Baseline break contact drills are used when both the tactical situation and
the terrain enables freedom of manoeuvre as you withdraw. It would generally not be
appropriate in an IED high threat environment
Contact Front. The point soldier returns automatic fire and, simultaneously, shouts
‘contact front’. The second soldier takes a single pace to their left , the third soldier a
single pace to their right andthe fourth soldier 2 paces to the right: all return fire as soon
as they have clear line of sight. This enables the lead Fire team to all engage the enemy.
The rear Fire team, under the 2ic’s direction should move left or right into a position to lay
down suppressive fire. The point man then turns and runs back until level with the
second soldier. They then move back as a pair whilst soldiers 3 and 4 provide fire support
(along with Delta Fire team). They run back as far as in line with Soldier. This leaves
Soldier 3 forward of a Fire team baseline and will move back next. The Fire team is
now complete in a baseline. Fire team F&M can now commence until contact is
broken and a safe rally point is reached.
Contact Rear. Everyone turns around. The drill is then the same as for Contact Front
except for thepatrol continuing to move in its original direction of advance.
Contact Left or Right. If the contact comes from the side, it is particularly important
that any member of the patrol who identifies where the enemy is firing from shouts
‘contact left’ (or ‘right’ as appropriate) the patrol simply turns to the left and returns fire.
The patrol can then withdraw using Fire team F&M until contact is broken and a safe rally
point reached.

Tunnel Break Contact Drills

Introduction. The Tunnel Break Contact Drill applies when the patrol is severely
restricted in its manoeuvre by the terrain or tactical situation. It will therefore usually be
moving in single file or file along a track, road or in a defile with no realistic option to
break off it. This may be because it is physically impossible to do so because of dense
vegetation or it may because of a high threat of IEDs or mines. As the patrol enters such
an area, the commander must remind the patrol that the Tunnel Break Contact Drill is
now to be used.

Contact Front. The point soldiers (or soldier if in single file) immediately return fire. The
rest of the patrol kneel and take aim towards the enemy. The point soldiers then turn
inward and run down the centre of the track whilst the next pair continue to provide fire
support. The pair move beyond the end of the section and go to ground. This ‘peeling
back’ continues rapidly until contact is broken. This method has 2 disadvantages:

• Only enabling 2 soldiers to bring down fire at any one time. If it is possible for
the next 2 members of the patrol to safely and effective engage as well,
possibly by taking a pace to their left and right, they should do so to increase
the initial weight of fire.

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

• The withdrawal is channelled and predictable, presenting a relatively easy


target to the enemy. You could consider using screening smoke but bear in
mind that it will also affect your own ability to accurately target the enemy.

Contact Rear. Everyone turns around. The drill is then the same as for Contact Front
except for thepatrol continuing to move in its original direction of advance

Contact Left/Right. If the contact comes from a side, everyone turns to face the enemy
and opens fire. The patrol then starts peeling off from the point man. If the patrol is in
single file, this can be done immediately. If in file, those on the ‘far’ side of the track need
to move forward into a baseline in order to allow those running back to pass safely behind
them whilst they lay down suppressive fire.

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

Harbours

A patrol harbour is a position established to provide security when a patrol or platoon


halts for a period longer than a temporary halt. Possible reasons for the establishment of
the harbour are:

• To form a base from which operations can be mounted, e.g., attack, ambush,
reconnaissance, or establishing OPs.
• To provide an RV after infiltration into an enemy area by small groups, or after
withdrawing from such an area.
• To provide security for an administrative halt after long periods of movement
or closecontact.

The most common application of the patrol harbour is the establishment of a triangular
harbour by a platoon, the procedure for moving into a triangular harbour at platoon level
is divided into five stages:

1) The selection of a possible harbour area can be done from a map, an air photograph,
aerial reconnaissance, or on the ground. The detailed sitting must be confirmed by
reconnaissance and the area secured before occupation.
2) Occupation. For the swift and efficient occupation of a patrol harbour a well
understood drill is essential. It should be a platoon SOP, so that it can be carried out
using hand signals with a minimum of noise.
3) Clearance patrols should detect and report to the platoon commander:
• Signs of recent enemy activity.
• Possible enemy approach routes.
• Unexpected obstacles (i.e., mines and ravines).
• Streams and dominating ground.
• Possible ERV locations.

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4) Sentries. Once clearance patrols have been completed, sentries should be posted.
5) Work routine. Once sentries are posted, work begins to strengthen the harbour

Battle Trench

Sequence of trench construction per section:


• digging individual foxholes for prone shooting, camouflaging BMPs (APCs)
against the background terrain with service equipment and local materials;
• deepening of trenches to 1.1 m, construction of group foxholes, beginning of
excavation of trenches for BMPs (APCs);
• connecting single and group foxholes by digging a 0.6 m deep trench into the
trench for the section and equipping it with spare firing positions and small
arms platforms, and completing the excavation of the trench for the BMP
(APC);
• deepening the section trench to 1.1 m, arranging a blocked slot (dugout),
loopholes, ammunition niches, excavating and camouflaging the reserve
trench for an armoured personnel carrier (APC) with local materials.
With further equipment of the trench, the following is arranged in the section:
• a device for exiting a trench;
• a latrine;
• water intake (water absorption) wells and drainage ditches;
• steepness garment in weak soils.

The trench for the section is located on the ground, if possible, so that it is not observed
by the enemy and at the same time provides the possibility of firing on all approaches in
front of the position of the section and on the flanks, on the approaches to the obstacles
and the possibility of observing them.

The placement of the trench should ensure that the area in front of it can be fired upon
at a distance of 400 metres. The trench is located on the front and reverse slopes. The
front slope has a convenient place with a fighting ridge.

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

When a foxhole or trench is located at the bottom of a slope, it provides good fire
coverage, but communication with the rear is hampered. When located in the area of a
topographic ridge, it is difficult to fire on approaches due to the large number of blind
areas. On a reverse slope, trenches should be dug at a distance of at least 200-300 m
from the topographic ridge.

Trenches and communication passages can be of basic and full profile

The front parapet is poured along the front of the trench in the direction of fire and
serves as a support for an assault rifle or carbine. Its height is made so that the area in
front of the trench is well observed and can be fired upon by automatic and machine gun
fire from the trench (on average 40-60 cm). The outer steepness of the front parapet
should be as sloping as possible to ensure that the embankment is flowing away from the
shock wave of a nuclear explosion and to provide good camouflage on the ground. To
prevent the parapet from crumbling, the internal steepness of the parapet is secured
with turf and other materials.

The rear parapet is placed behind the trench and protects personnel from blast
fragments when a mortar mine or shell is detonated behind the trench. Height (40-60
cm), thickness 180-200 cm.

Berm - a ledge between the front/rear parapet and the ditch. It serves to protect the
adjacent internal slopes from crumbling and collapsing under the pressure of the parapet
and is also used to rest the elbows when firing, to quickly jump out of the trench, and to
store grenades and ammunition magazines. The berm is made 20-30 cm wide.

Ammunition niches are usually arranged in the front steepness of the trench near the
machine gun platform and the grenade launcher cell. The ammunition and grenade niche
is rectangular in plan with internal dimensions of 70/70 and a height of 70 cm.

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

Niche for products, water, and other supplies have internal dimensions of 100/100/100
cm. They are arranged similarly to niches for ammunition. The entrance must be securely
closed with an attached shield..

The latrine is set up for one or two men per mechanised platoon and is located in special
tunics facing the rear of the movement, no closer than 15-20 metres from the trench. It
takes 30 man-hours to set up.

Exit from the trench - arranged for quick jumping on the parapet and transition to a
counterattack or offensive. Exits are created both in the front steepness and in the rear.
The front exits are arranged so that there is at least one exit for every 8-10 m of the
trench. For this purpose, footrests are made in the front unclad steepness or ladders are
made and placed at the right time.

Water drainage is one of the most important measures in the construction of trenches
and communication passages. In areas with a high water table, trenches and ditches
should be constructed so that the bottom of the ditch is at least 15-20 cm above the
water table. If the trench is located on a hill slope, upland ditches 5-10 m above the trench
ditch, up to 40 cm deep and 20-40 cm wide, should be constructed to intercept rainwater
runoff.

The main elements of trench fortification per section and their dimensions

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Constructing a Sangar

1) Sandbags are laid in horizontal courses


like bricks. The bottom course
consists of sandbags laid head on,
termed ‘headers’, while the next
course consists of sandbags laid
lengthwise along the wall called
‘stretchers’. Subsequent courses are
composed alternately of ` headers’ and
‘stretchers’. The initial layer will be two
sandbags deep.

2) Sandbags are laid so that neither


their chokes nor side seams are in the
outer face of the wall, because when
filled these are the

places where they tend to burst. The


corners of each bag should be tucked
in as they are laid.

3) Each sandbags when laid must be


beaten with a pick helve or other
beater into a standard sizes
rectangular block 500 x 250 x 125 mm.
The chokes are tucked under the bag
to prevent bursting.

4) Joints in adjacent courses are staggered. A wall so constructed is said to be correctly


bonded.

5) It is important to maintain the bonding when the wall turns a corner.

6) The sangar when built should be approximately shoulder height with fire ports.
Pickets 0.6 metres can be used to reinforce the sandbags across the top of the fire
port. If the ground permits 1.8 metre pickets can be used to support the sangar. If
possible it should be constructedwith a slope not steeper than 1 in 4.

7) The sangar once completed should be camouflaged to match its background. A


camouflage netwill break its outline.

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SIGNALS

Love your dear Ukraine. Свою Україну любіть.


Love her... in fierce times of evil, Любіть її… во врем'я люте,
In the last, dread hour of struggle. В остатню, тяжкую мінуту
Fervently beseech God for her. За неї Господа моліть.

Calling Transmission. Any station wishing to initiate communication on a radio net


makes a calling transmission. A calling transmission comprises of three parts; these are
as follows:
1) Initial call.
2) The message text.
3) The ending.
Initial Call. When making an initial call it is necessary for the calling station to choose the
stations to whom he wishes to speak, then at the end of the initial call the calling station
would identify himself. In the same manner of the telephone call that we discussed
earlier. Different circumstances require various types of initial call, but all follow the
same format; there’s 4 parts these are:

• HELLO - To alert the net.


• CALLSIGN(S) - Identifies the station(s) called.
• THIS IS - A proword meaning ‘This transmission is from the station whose callsign
immediately follows’.
• CALLSIGN - Identifies the calling station. .

Message Text. The information to be passed..


Ending. To indicate the end of the calling transmission one of the following prowords is
used:
• OUT - Meaning ‘This is the end of my transmission to you and no answer is
required orexpected’. OUT should be used whenever possible.
• OVER - Meaning ‘This is the end of my transmission to you and a response is
necessary. Goahead and transmit’.
• OUT TO YOU - Meaning ‘This is the end of my transmission and no answer is
required orexpected. A transmission to another station follows immediately’. .

Reply

You have just learnt about the actions of the calling station, we will move on to the
actions of the (called) answering station(s) or in other words the reply. Any calling
transmission ending with the proword ‘OVER’ requires an immediate reply from the called
station. The initial reply comprises of three parts; these are as follows:

1) Callsign.
2) The message text.
3) The ending.
Callsign. Each called station identifies itself with its callsign. In subsequent replies after
the initial exchange of calls, the daily changing callsign indicators may be dropped
unless confusion is likelyto arise.

Message Text. The message text may consist of an answer, a receipt or both.
• Answer - Information answering the calling transmission, with any additional
informationas necessary.

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• Receipt - ROGER, meaning ‘I have received your last transmission satisfactorily’.

Ending. To indicate the end of an answering transmission one of the following prowords is
used:

• OUT - (Replies should also, where possible, be ended with OUT).


• OVER - meaning ‘This is the end of my transmission to you and a response is
necessary. Goahead and transmit’.
• OUT TO YOU - meaning ‘This is the end of my transmission and no answer is
required orexpected. A transmission to another station follows immediately’.
• WAIT OUT - meaning ‘I cannot answer immediately, and I will call later’.

Terminated Transmissions. If the initial or subsequent replies end with OUT, OUT TO
YOU, orWAIT OUT, then the exchange of transmissions is complete. Any further exchange
of transmissionsmust start with a new calling transmission.

Types of Call

Now that you all know how to make and answer a call we are going to move on to the
different types of call. There are six different types of call most commonly used within
the military, and these are:

1) Single Call.
2) Multiple Call.
3) Collective Call.
4) Limited Response.
5) All Stations Call.
6) Exempt Call.

Single Call. A single call is a call that is made by any station to any other single station:

CONTROL (0) B10


HELLO B10 THIS IS 0
Your SUNRAY as just left my location OVER
B10 Roger OUT

Multiple Call. A multiple call is a call made by any station to two or more, but not all the
stations that are on the net. Each callsign is separated by a pause as used between words
in normal speech, except between the last two stations which are separated by the word
‘and’.

CONTROL (0) B10 B20 B30


HELLO B10, B20 and B30 THIS IS 0
The O Group at my location is now at 16:00hrs
OVER
B10 Roger
OUT
B20 Roger
OUT
B30 Roger
OUT

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Collective Call. A collective call is a call to two or more stations on a net, which are
identified by a single pre-designated collective callsign.

The use of collective calls enables communication with regularly required groups of
stations without the need to specify each individual callsign. Collective calls can and do
significantly reduce the length of calling transmissions.

The proword CHARLIE CHARLIE, followed by a figure suffix to specify which collective call
is in use, is used to designate collective calls. collective calls are to be numbered from
1, even when onlyone collective call is designated on the net.

CONTROL (0) B10 B20 B30 B40


HELLO CC1 THIS IS 0
En Inf Pl sighted at GR SU 998 521
OVER
B10 Roger
OUT
B20 Roger
OUT
B30 Roger
OUT
B40 Roger
OUT

Limited Response. When all stations have good communications, the limited response
procedure should be used to enhance security. The procedure used is to address the
call to all the stations the message is relevant to, however you only need to nominate
one or two callsigns to acknowledge. The callsigns that are nominated to reply are usually
the callsigns furthest away or the ones with the most difficult communications. Limited
response should not be used to pass mission critical information due to the possible
outcome

CONTROL (0) B30


HELLO CC1 THIS IS 0
B11C will be visiting all HQ locations today B30
Acknowledge OVER
B30 Roger OUT

When using limited response procedure, the same stations should reply to each portion
of a long message, since a progression through the stations will give the enemy the same
direction finding information as a full response.

All Stations Call. When it is essential to call all the stations on a net the proword ALL
STATIONS is used. Unless a reply is essential All Stations calls will end with the proword
OUT. If a reply is required, then you should use the limited response procedure.

CONTROL (0) EVERY CALLSIGN ON THAT NET


HELLO, ALL STATIONS THIS IS 0,
My new locstat is at GR SU 875 680
OUT

Exempt Call. An exempt call is defined as a call to those stations normally designated by
a collective call or all stations call, less certain specifically exempted stations. It is used
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when a calling station wishes to call the majority, but not all of the stations associated
with a collective or all stations call. Exempt calls can simplify calls and prevent any
unnecessary replies.

To make an exempt call the proword EXEMPT is used followed by the callsign(s) of the
exempted station(s).

CONTROL (0) B10 B20 B30


HELLO CC2 EXEMPT B10 THIS IS 0
En Pre-seen at GR SU 405 009
OVER
B20 Roger
OUT
B30 Roger
OUT

Establishing Communications

Before the passage of voice traffic commences over a radio net, control may need to co-
ordinate radio contact with other stations involved to check that communication is
possible.

Radio checks should only be authorized when radio conditions are known or expected to
be poor, or for complex nets that require signals engineering.

Radio checks should be kept to a minimum and all station radio checks are not be made in
the non-secure mode without specific authority from higher formation.

Procedures. This procedure is broken down into two main headings

a) The radio check (means, ‘report the readability of my transmission to you’)


(Satisfactorynet)

CONTROL (0) 10 20 30 40
HELLO CC1 THIS IS 0RADIO CHECK
OVER

10 OK OVER
20 OK OVER
30 OK OVER
40 OK OVER
0 OK OUT

Substations report to control with one of the following prowords as appropriate:

• OK - Your TX is satisfactory for working.


• DIFFICULT - Your TX is workable but with difficulty, requiring extra care and
possiblecorrective action.
• UNWORKABLE - Your TX is unworkable. I am unable to receive message traffic
from youuntil communications between us have been improved.

Note: Both difficult and unworkable may be qualified by a brief description of the
difficulty, for example intermittent or interference.
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Control. Control monitors each substation report in turn or, after the last station
answers, allows 5seconds for each defaulting station which fails to answer in the correct
sequence, before making his report.
Control reports on substations. Control reports the readability of substations in normal
answering sequence, using the appropriate prowords as required.
Control. When a reply is not received from a substation, control will indicate this with
the proword, ‘NOTHING HEARD’.
Controls Reports to substations. Stations that receive a report from Control
comprised of any proword other than OK are to take whatever corrective action is
possible to improve their readability to a satisfactory degree. While it does not absolve
Control from attempting to improve their signal. The main responsibility for improving
communications remains with the sub units.
As a conclusion to this fact, both sub units and Control must co-ordinate their efforts
via an alternate radio net to improve communications..

b) Radio Check (Unsatisfactory net)


CONTROL (0) 10 20 30 40
HELLO CC1 THIS IS 0 RADIO
CHECK OVER
10 OK OVER
20 DIFFICULT
OVER
NO REPLY FROM 30 DURING 5 SECONDS PAUSE
40 OK OVER
5 SECONDS PAUSE
0,20 DIFFICULT, 30 NOTHING
HEARD, 40 UNWORKABLE OUT

SIGNAL STRENGTHS - ‘Stations called are to indicate the readability of transmissions


from other stations in this call’.

Signal strength procedure should only be used when it is required and not as an addition
to the communications check.
CONTROL 10 20 30 40
HELLO CC1 THIS IS 0 SIGNAL
STRENGTHS OVER
10 Strength 5
out
20 Strength 3
out
30 Strength 1
out
40 Strength 5
out

Security Accuracy & Brevity

The enemy will attempt to discover the following:

1) Order of Battle
• Command Structure

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

• Radio Net Level, Composition & Function


• Unit Identities
2) Locations
• Formations & Unit Boundaries
• Areas of Operation
• Locations of HQ’s
3) Intentions
• Operation Plans
• Tactical Groupings
• Movement
4) Combat Effectiveness
• Casualties
• Damaged or Defective Equipment
• Standard of Radio Discipline

Counter Deception

The enemy will rarely attempt deception during peacetime, but almost exclusively
reserve its use for time of war to ensure maximum impact. Unsuspecting stations
preoccupied with urgent tactical matters are particularly prone to this method of attack.

The best defences against enemy deception are:

• Good Procedures
• Constant Vigilance
• Authentication.

Aids to security

There are procedural aids which can considerably enhance transmission security. Aids to
security are:

• Authorized low level codes.


• Authentication. is a security aid designed to protect our communications
• Code words. is a single word with a pre-arranged meaning,
• Address groups. is a unique, daily-changing group of four random letters
• Callsigns is a combination of letters and figures which identifies a
communications facility, an organization, or an individual on a radio net.
• Net Identification Signs (NIS). is a random, twice daily-changing, two-letter group
(with the exception of CC) allotted to a radio net to provide a concealed reference
to the identity of that net.

Accuracy

Rhythm. Use short sentences divided into sensible phrases which maintain a natural
rhythm; they should not be spoken word by word.

Speed. Speak slightly slower than for normal conversation. Where a message is to be
written down by the recipients, or in difficult conditions, extra time should be allowed to
compensate for the receiving station experiencing the worst conditions. Speed of
transmission is easily adjusted by increasing or decreasing the length of pauses between
phrases, as opposed to altering the gaps between words; the latter will create an
unnatural, halted style of speech which is difficult to understand.
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Volume. Speak quietly when using whisper facilities, otherwise the volume should be as
for normal conversation. Shouting causes distortion.

Pitch. The voice should be pitched slightly higher than for normal conversation to
improve clarity.

Discipline

Radio discipline is a fundamental ingredient of voice procedure without which a radio net
cannot function efficiently.

Aids to Discipline:

• Use correct voice procedure


• Maintain a constant listening radio watch
• Ensure correct frequency is in use.
• Answer calls promptly and without delay.
• Listen before transmitting.
• Release presser promptly.
• Ensure set returns to receive.

You should never:

• Violate radio silence.


• Compromise classified information by unauthorized plain language disclosure.
• Identify yourself.
• Speak faster than the receiving station can log
• Swear or lose your temper.

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MEDICAL TRAINING

Native language, native word, those who forget you Мова рідна, слово рідне, хто вас забуває,
Have in their chest no heart, only a stone Той у грудях не серденько, тільки камінь має.

The aims of First Aid are what the first aider is trying to achieve. They are:

TO PRESERVE LIFE, PREVENT CONDITION FROM WORSENING, PROMOTE RECOVERY

It must be remembered that there is a limit as to the effectiveness that first aid can have,
and with the vast majority of casualties even partial recovery from their injuries can be
long term. If a casualty reaches further medical aid without their condition becoming
worse the first aider has done their job well.

Battle Shock

Definition. Battle shock is a common condition of temporary psychological disorder. It is


encountered under severe battle conditions where heavy casualties, and perhaps
prolonged bombardment, cause some soldiers to become temporarily unable to fight
effectively, even without injury or disease.

Soldiers at risk. Soldiers at risk are those with insufficient training or combat experience
who are not fully part of the team, for example, recent reinforcements, particularly those
with family problems. However in a prolonged war even veterans get worn down and
under extreme conditions of battle, can become battle shocked within a day or two.

Signs and symptoms. Any of the following signs and symptoms may point to battle
shock:

• Changes in character (Behaviour, Personality)


• On edge, unable to settle, apprehensive.
• Trembling, feeling jittery.
• Over reaction to loud noises etc.
• Recklessness or indecision.
• Dazed or confused state.
• Weakness or deafness.
• Unable to stop worrying about trivia

However, it should be remembered that some signs and symptoms need not necessarily
indicate battle shock, for example:

In battle fear is a normal reaction and may include physical signs and symptoms including:

• Trembling.
• Sweating.
• Loss of bowel or bladder control.

Some psychological signs and symptoms may be merely due to prolonged lack of sleep,
forexample:

• Fatigue.
• Irritability
• Apathy.
• Visual hallucinations.
Some signs and symptoms, which are apparently psychological in origin, may have
other causes and require urgent clinical treatment. For example, apprehension may be
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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

due to:

• Chemical agents.
• Blast injury.

Evacuation Drills

Priorities

•Unresponsive
•Upper airway burn
•Breathing difficulties
T1 •Severe external breathing
•If a tourniquet has been applied
•Signs of internal bleeding such as, pale colour, sweaty,
fast or weak pulse

T2 •Casualty with a non life threatening injury but cannot walk

T3 •All walking wounded

Bleeding

Circulatory System

The heart pumps blood around our body through vessels called arteries, veins and
capillaries. The rate it beats at is our pulse and the force exerted is our blood pressure. In
adults the pulse is usually 60 to 80 beats per minute, but this can be slower in very fit
people. The adult body will have approximately 5 – 7 litres of blood.
Bleeding

There are a number of ways we can slow or stop bleeding which are:
• Direct pressure
• Indirect pressure
• ECB
• Elevation of wound if possible
• Tourniquet.
Shock
This is a loss of circulatory body fluid, which can be caused by bleeding or burns. In the
case of bleeding this can be external or internal, which is more difficult to identify. The
main treatment is as follows:
1) Reassurance Talk to the casualty, try to restore morale

2) Warmth Keep the casualty warm without overheating. Cold will increase the level of
shock

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3) Rest This will calm the casualty and increase vital signs

4) Fluids (if safe) Remember sips of water unless a T1, when wetting the lips is sufficient.

5) If further pain relief is required refer to Drill 8 for guidance.

6) After 30 mins turn your casualty into the alternate ¾ prone unless chest seal applied.

Re-Evaluate the casualty as their priority may change

Tourniquet
Tourniquets should only be applied as a last resort if severe bleeding continues. If a
tourniquet is applied, a letter “T” is written on the casualty’s face and the time using the
24-hour clock.

Fractures and Dislocations

When a bone is broken it is called a fracture. When two adjacent bones move out of
alignment it iscalled a dislocation the treatment for both is normally the same.

The three types of fracture are:


• Open wound at sight of fracture.
• Closed no wound at sight of fracture.
• Complicated Fracture causes damage to underlying tissue, organs, blood
vessels and/ornerves.

Types of Joints
• Slightly Moveable. The vertebrae, and in the feet.
• Ball-and-Socket. The hip and shoulder.
• Hinge Joints. The elbow.
Improvisation Techniques.

1) Two Handed Seat


• Squat facing each other, one on each side of the casualty.
• Both of you pass your arms nearest the casualty’s body under and round their
back just below their shoulders and, if possible, grasp each other’s wrist,
otherwise, grasp the casualty’s clothing.
• Raise the casualty’s legs slightly, pass your other arms under the middle of
their thighs and grasp each other’s wrists.
• Rise together, step off with the outside of the feet and walk at an ordinary
pace.

2) Lift using Shovel or Branch


• Stand facing each other, grasp the shovel or branch with both hands and stoop
down.
• Tell the casualty to place their arms round both your necks, and to sit back on
the shovel or branch and steady themselves.
• Rise together, step off with the outside of the feet and walk at an ordinary
pace.

3) Dragging
• Fold the casualty’s arms across their chest.
• Grasp their combat jacket or webbing and drag them along the ground.

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4) Neck Drag
• Place the casualty on their back and tie their wrists firmly together.
• Kneel astride the casualty and place their tied hands over your head.
• Take the casualty’s weight on your neck and crawl forward dragging them with you.
5) Rope Drag
• Put a rope or webbing across the casualty’s chest and under their armpits.
• Grasp both ends of the rope and drag.
6) Supporting an Arm
• Using a combat jacket as a sling, fold the bottom of the jacket over the arm and
secure itby tightening the ties at the waist and top.
• Use a face veil or belt to secure the arm to the chest, tie it to the uninjured side.
• The face veil can also be used as a sling.
7) Splinting a Leg
• Use strips of clothing as bandages. A beret can be used to keep the feet together.
• Face veils and belts are handy to bind legs together.
• Pieces of wood or branches can be used as splints. Padded with grass,
undergrowth orclothing.

Two person drag Fireman’s lift Two man carry Shovel carry

Heat and Cold Injury

Heat Injury.
Heat Injury can strike at any time and in any season. You have a responsibility to know
how to prevent it, recognise the symptoms and deal with the condition.

This condition can come on very quickly and without apparent warning - anticipate! Heat
Casualties can occur during periods of cool/cold weather normally where inappropriate
clothing is worn during physical activity.

Factors Leading to Heat Illness


• High temperature/direct sunlight. Heavy Kit workload.
• Dehydration. Excessive Clothing.
• Lack of food/nutrition/water. Other illnesses: e.g. colds/flu.
• Wearing of personal protective equipment (e.g. CBA, NBC or Helmet).
Prevention
• Drink water before, during and after physical activity.
• Dress appropriately to keep cool. Ensure that you remove warm clothing
wheneverpossible.
• Avoid strenuous physical activity during the hottest part of the day.
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• Use common sense and knowledge of local conditions.


• Remember. If in doubt seek further advice before commencing the activity.

Signs and Symptoms


• Nausea or vomiting. Dizziness or confusion.
• Disturbed vision. Staggering and irritability.
• Collapse or loss of consciousness. Rapid breathing and pulse.
• Shivering and goose pimples when hot. Skin may be cold and pale, or red and
hot.
• Sweating may, or may not, be present.

Immediate First Aid


• STOP activity and call for immediate medical support. Lie the casualty
down in theshade.
• If conscious lower the head and elevate the feet. Remove excessive clothing.
• Sponge or spray skin with cool water (all over), and fan to assist evaporation.
• If conscious, give sips of water. If unconscious place in 3/4 Recovery Position
(the patient is likely to vomit) and monitor progress. Evacuate to medical care
as soon as possible.

Cold Injury

Cold injuries are a significant risk within training but they are PREVENTABLE. There are
two types:

1) General: Hypothermia (Exposure).

2) Localized: Non Freezing Cold Injury (NFCI) and Freezing Cold Injury (Frostbite).

Factors leading to cold Injuries


• Environmental Conditions. Lower air temperatures, wind chill, wet conditions
andduration of exposure all increase risk.
• Immobility e.g. stag duty.
• Lack of spare warm kit - gloves/socks etc.
• Immersion in cold water/failure to change out of wet clothing including socks.
• Dehydration.
• Illness or injury.
• Excessive sweating during preceding 48hrs.
• Specific ethnic groups are at greater risk i.e. Afro-Caribbean.

Prevention
• Correct use of protective warm clothing, including headgear and gloves during
cold/wetweather.
• Footwear: boots should always be laced tightly in cold conditions. Socks
should bechanged when waterlogged.
• Regular foot inspections.
• Ensure adequate intake of food and drink.
• Regular rest periods preferably in a sheltered environment.
• Avoid risk of excessive sweating (causing dehydration) by adjusting layers of
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clothingduring periods of increased physical work.

Signs and Symptoms Hypothermia


• Complains of coldness.
• Intense and uncontrollable shaking and slurred speech.
• Unable to carry out simple tasks.
• Loss of memory (Name, rank and number test).
• Irritable behaviour.
• May be wet through to skin.
• Skin abnormally cold to touch.
• Pulse difficult to find.
• Collapse and loss of consciousness.

Immediate First Aid Hypothermia


• Do not delay treatment or attempt to ‘push on’.
• Call for medical support.
• Remove from the cold/wet; seek immediate shelter (basha/vehicle/building).
• Strip off wet clothing for dry. Re-warm casualty slowly. No hot baths.
• Lay casualty down in cover and insulate (if unconscious place in recovery
position).
• Keep warm. Make use of vehicle heaters if available, if not use body heat.
• NO ALCOHOL.

Non Freezing Cold Injury


• Complains of cold and numb feet. Can be described as ‘cotton wool feet’ or
feeling ‘asif wearing somebody else’s feet’.
• Skin over hands and feet appears wrinkly and cold to touch.
• Individuals can present with warm, red, painful and swollen hands and feet. This
occursduring cold weather and requires immediate medical review.

Immediate First Aid Non Freezing Cold Injury


• On recognition of numbness in feet, seek shelter and remove socks and boots.
• Gently and thoroughly dry feet. DO NOT RUB.
• Re-warm slowly by exposure to warm air alone or by placing feet inside a
colleagues clothing under armpit. Never immerse feet in warm water or apply
direct heat from flame or cooker.
• Apply foot powder.
• Provide dry socks.
• Provide dry footwear if available or thoroughly dry the inside of boots prior to
replacement.
Note

If casualty experiences continuing pain/numbness or pins and needles on re-warming,


evacuation and assessment by medical personnel is required as soon as possible. Walking
should be kept to a minimum to prevent further damage.

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Frostbite
• Treat any associated hypothermia and evacuate with the affected limbs
immobilizedand protected from further injury.
• Under no circumstances should brisk rubbing of the frozen part or direct heat
byflames, steam or exhaust gases be used to thaw frost-bitten tissue.

A typical algorithm for providing first aid

The information was taken from the website on tactical medicine created by a
consortium of organisations, namely the NGO "Reformatsia" from AUMF - American
Ukrainian Medical Foundation, the American-Ukrainian Medical Foundation in
coordination with the US Defense Health Agency's Joint Trauma System and the
Committee on Tactical Combat Casualty Care.

Access - https://tccc.org.ua/

All Service Members Course - TCCC ASM

The following material has been developed for use in the Tactical Combat Casualty Care
for All Military (TCCC ASM) course and is intended for non-medical personnel.

The Joint Trauma System (JTS) sets the standards for pre-hospital battlefield care for
the Ministry of Defence. The JTS is part of the Department of Health's Health Protection
Agency, which provides clinical practice guidelines and improves the effectiveness of all
levels of military trauma care.

The JTS is supported by the Committee on Tactical Combat Casualty Care (CoTCCC),
which is made up of representatives from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps and
develops clinical practice guidelines for the delivery of tactical combat casualty care
(TCCC) on the battlefield.

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LAW OF ARMED CONFLICT

Our spirit never can be downed, …Не вмирає душа наша,


Our striving to be free. Не вмирає воля.
The sateless one will never plow The bottom of the sea. Й неситий не виоре На дні моря поле…

This memo is issued after mobilization to all persons involved in armed conflict. More
detailed information can be found in the document "Army-wide Manual on the Law of
Armed Conflict" (JSP 383) and "Soldier's Manual on the Law of Armed Conflict" (Army
Code No. 771130). Advice is also available from the legal advisors of the armed forces.

Aide-memoire on the Law of Armed Conflict

In every international armed conflict, members of the armed forces, including civilians
accompanying them, are subject to the Law of Armed Conflict. The Law of Armed Conflict
comprises relevant international law and UK domestic law which encompasses military
law.

The Law of Armed Conflict provides for the protection and humane treatment of
combatants and non-combatants. The law both imposes duties and grants rights to
individuals.

All personnel should be familiar with the basic rules of the law of armed conflict,
including the practical application of the principles of military necessity, proportionality,
distinction and humanity. These are discussed below.

Responsibilities

Violations of the Law of Armed Conflict must be reported immediately. They must be
thoroughly investigated and responded to appropriately. Illegal orders must neither be
given nor carried out. Those who break the law can expect to be prosecuted and, if found
guilty, severely punished.

Rules for all personnel

You HAVE to:

• Comply with the laws of armed conflict and military law.


• Comply with the Rules of Engagement (ROE) applicable to your assignment.
You will beinformed of the ROE that apply to you.
• Respect all protective emblems such as the Red Cross (Red Crescent and Red
Crystal),the UN emblem and the white flag of temporary armistice.
• Treat humanely all people who come into your hands and protect them
from thedangers of war.
• To provide assistance to the wounded, including the wounded of the
enemy,depending on the severity of the injury.
• Comply with all rules of engagement (see below).

Rules of armed hostilities

• Do not use more force than is necessary to accomplish your operational task.
• It is forbidden to kill or wound the enemy in an insidious way.
• Do not use poison or alter weapons or ammunition to increase injury or damage.

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• The white flag of temporary truce can be used to signal a desire to talk to the
enemy. The party using the white flag must stop fighting and indicate a
desire to negotiate. Then both sides must stop fighting. Abusing the white flag
is insidious. The flag of truce indicates no more than the intention to start
negotiations with the enemy. It does not mean a desire to surrender. The party
to the conflict with the flag cannot be attacked. At the end of negotiations, it
must be allowed to return to its position if it wishes to do so. The party to the
conflict with the flag can walk or travel in a vehicle or aircraft under a white
flag.
• Care must be taken to avoid injury to civilians and damage to civilian objects.
• Enemy property is not to be seized, damaged or destroyed without operational
necessity. Looting is prohibited.
• It is forbidden to force enemy citizens to participate in military actions against
their country.

Attacks

Attacks should be directed only at military targets. They should not be indiscriminate.

You MUST NOT attack:

• Civilians (unless they are directly involved in hostilities).


• Civilian buildings or property, including cultural property (unless they lose
their protected status and you are ordered to attack).
• Medical personnel and chaplains, hospitals, medical centres or medical
transport. These personnel and objects must be identified by a distinguishing
sign, namely a red cross (red crescent or red crystal) on a white background.
• Civil defence facilities, dams, dikes and nuclear power plants (unless they lose
their protected status and you receive an order to attack).
• Unprotected towns, villages and buildings or security zones, as well as neutral
or demilitarized zones.
• Enemy combatants who have surrendered or are no longer fighting due to
injury or illness.
• All personnel or objects bearing protective emblems.
• Persons protected by the flag of truce

Medical personnel and chaplains

Medical personnel and chaplains have a special protective status. They must be
respected and cannot be attacked. They are allowed to perform their medical and
spiritual duties, but cannot participate in combat.

Medical personnel can independently carry and use small arms - for self-defence or
protection of their patients.

In case of capture, medical personnel and chaplains are not prisoners of war (POWs).
They may be held by their captors if necessary to continue to perform medical and
spiritual duties for the benefit of POWs from their own forces. They then have a special
status as "retained personnel".

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Wounded, sick and dead

All the wounded and sick must be treated humanely. The priority of treatment is
determinedsolely by medical indicators. The dead must not be robbed or mutilated.

Civilians

Civilians must be respected and treated humanely. They must be protected as far as
possible from the incidental hazards of war. In particular, they must not be used to shield
military operations. Coercion, torture, collective punishment and hostage-taking are
prohibited.

If you capture the enemy

In case of doubt, all captured personnel should be treated as prisoners of war (POWs)
until theirstatus is determined by a higher authority.

Immediately after the capture of prisoners of war (POWs), the following rules must be
observed:

• All POWs should be treated humanely.


• All POWs must be disarmed and searched. Military documentation and
equipment should be confiscated. Money and valuables should be seized only
by order of anofficer and against a receipt. Prisoners of war must be allowed to
keep their identity documents, personal belongings, protective and other
clothing, cutlery, rank insignia and decorations.
• Prisoners of war must be quickly evacuated from the area of hostilities.
• The sick and wounded must be provided with medical care.
• The identity of POWs must be established.
• Torture or threats must not be used against POWs to obtain information.

The detaining state MUST:

• Provide adequate shelter, food, clothing and medical care for the IDPs.
• Allow the POWs to file complaints to the representatives of the detaining state
or to the International Committee of the Red Cross.
• To display copies of the Geneva Conventions of 1949 in the language of
prisoners ofwar in camps for permanent detention of prisoners of war.
• Ensure that POWs are not forced to perform work of a humiliating, dangerous
or military nature. NCO POWs must not be forced to perform any work other
than supervisory work. A POW officer may be assigned to work only at his own
request.
• Disciplinary measures can be taken against POWs only after proper
investigation, trial and subsequent conviction. Torture and coercion may not
be used.

If you are taken prisoner of war

You must provide your number, rank, full name and date of birth. You do not need to
provide anyadditional information.

You must not perform any work of a humiliating, dangerous or military nature for your
detainees.

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Protective emblems and distinctive signs

Medical services and chaplains


Red cross, crescent or crystal on a
whitebackground

Flag of truce
An ordinary white flag (made of any
material).

Cultural values
Royal blue on a white background.

This symbol is used by many NATO nations under the 1954 Hague Convention on Cultural
Property to indicate buildings used for religion, art, science, charity, historical
monuments or other important cultural sites.

Civil defence
Blue triangle on orange background.

Dams, dikes and nuclear power plants


3 bright orange circles of the same size, located
onthe same axis, the distance between each is
one radius (half diameter).

In addition to the emblems shown, the following letters should be painted on the walls or
roofs to indicate buildings located in prisoner of war camps or internment camps for
civilians to protect them from attack:

• Abbreviation "PW" or "PG" - for camps for prisoners of war (English "Prisoner
of War",French "Prisoner of Guerre", which means "Prisoner of War").

• "IC" - for internment camps for civilians.

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CHEMICAL, BIOLOGICAL, RADIOLOGICAL AND NUCLEAR (CBRN)

It's terrible to lie in chains,To rot in dungeon deep, Страшно впасти у кайдани, Умирать в неволі,
But it's still worse, when you are free To sleep and sleep А ще гірше – спати, спати, І спати на волі…
The system of protection against chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN)
weapons of mass destruction (WMD) adopted in the Armed Forces of Ukraine is a set of
measures coordinated in time, place, organizational and information support. It is based
on the joint actions of all personnel, commanders and chiefs on the detection of the use
of weapons of mass destruction, the use of special protective equipment,
decontamination, decontamination and disinfection measures, as well as assistance and
further treatment of victims.

The most important chain in this system is individual protection against CBRN of each
serviceman. The reliability of this system depends on the skilful use of personal
protective equipment, as well as clear and skilful actions in various extreme situations.

At the same time, the protection of personnel is ensured by tactical decisions of


commanders specifically aimed at preventing or minimizing losses that may be caused by
the striking effect of weapons of mass destruction in the course of combat operations.

Protection measures, which are carried out in the units independently, are further
significantly supplemented by the forces and means of special troops and services -
engineering, chemical, medical, etc. The purpose of their actions is to prevent the defeat
of troops from WMD and to provide the necessary medical assistance to the affected
units.

All these measures, complementing and reinforcing each other, ensure a high degree of
protection of the personnel of the units, which leads to the preservation of their combat
capability in the conditions of use of CBRN weapons. As it was mentioned, medical
measures are an integral part ofthe comprehensive protection system.

Considering the general tasks of protection, the medical service is entrusted with
comprehensive medical support of the troops in order to preserve the combat capability
of the personnel and return them to the service.

Medical personnel must have a clear understanding of the place and importance of
medical measures in the overall system of troop protection, competently interact with
various services andspecialists in solving the tasks of combat support of units.

CBRN defence – is a complex of tactical and special measures that are carried out in
order to maximize the mitigation of the impact of weapons of mass destruction, preserve
combat capability and ensure the successful performance of combat missions by
personnel.

Measures on CBRN defence include:


• Early detection of the enemy's preparation to use CBRN weapons;
• Dispersal of troops and periodic change of their location areas;
• Engineering arrangement of areas occupied by troops, positions and
preparation ofways for manoeuvre;
• Preparation of routes for manoeuvre;
• Use of protective and masking properties of the terrain;
• Warning troops about the immediate threat and the beginning of the use of
WMD by the enemy, as well as about their nuclear and chemical strikes;
• Warning about the immediate threat and the beginning of the use of WMD by
the enemy, as well as warning about radioactive and chemical and
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bacteriological contamination;
• Carrying out a set of anti-epidemic, sanitary and hygienic and special
preventive measures;
• Detection of the consequences of the use of WMD by the enemy;
• Creation of safe conditions and organization of personnel protection during
actions in areas of infection, destruction, fires and floods;
• Elimination of the consequences of the use of WMD by the enemy.

Depending on the nature of the troops' activities and the situation, these measures may
be carriedout in a whole or in a partial manner.

Nerve Agents

Nerve agents are lethal. They interfere with the nervous system and disrupt such
functions as breathing and muscular co-ordination. They may be in persistent or non-
persistent form. They are cumulative in effect so that repeated doses will produce
progressively more serious effects.
Types of nerve agents:
• Sarin (GB)
• Soman (GD)
• VX
• Tabun (GA)
• Diisopropyl fluorophosphates
• Cyclosarin (GF)
• GV
• Amiton
• Ethylsarin
Nerve Agent Poisoning Symptoms. Initial symptoms are: P R I T:
• Pinpointing of the pupils, dimmed vision (agent vapour has been absorbed
through theeyes).
• Running nose.
• Increase in saliva.
• Tightness of the chest, difficulty in breathing.

Later symptoms are: H I D E:


• Headache.
• Increase salivation.
• Dizziness and general weakness.
• Excessive sweating.

Danger symptoms are: N I M S:


• Nausea and vomiting.
• Involuntary bodily functions.
• Muscle twitching and jerking.
• Stoppage of breathing.
The later or danger symptoms may be the first indication of poisoning when the agent
has been swallowed or absorbed through the skin.

Safety Rule and Warning Signs

When an enemy uses chemical agents, they will try to achieve surprise. They are likely to
mix chemical agents with conventional exploding munitions or use methods of delivery,

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which you are unlikely to see or hear. When a chemical attack is anticipated, you will be
told to follow the chemical safety rule. If this is the case, you will not be told to mask up.
You must carry out the correct drill automatically. Survival will depend on your speed of
action. Many nations are part of NATO, so a standard method of warning and alarms has
been devised. The first problem is how to warn personnel that they are under CBRN
attack.

The Chemical Safety Rule

If you:

1) Experience – a bombardment of any kind.


2) Sight – Hostile or unknown low flying aircraft.
3) See – Suspicious:
• Mist.
• Smoke.
• Droplets.
• Splashes.
4) Smell - Anything Unusual.
5) Notice – Symptoms in yourself or others.
6) Hear – An alarm.
If you experience any of the above, assume this is a chemical attack and carry out the
chemicalimmediate action drill.

Audio Alarms. As you will probably know, there are a number of methods to warn
others. Somemay be more familiar than others. Some of the warning you can expect on
land are:

• Vocal by shouting gas, gas, gas or fallout, fallout, fallout.


• A succession of signals on vehicle or other horns (one second on one second
off).
• The beating of metal objects to make a loud noise.
• Interrupted warbling of a siren.
• Audio-visual pyrotechnic producing a whistling noise and yellow - red - yellow
lights.
• Donning of respirators with appropriate signals.
• Display of a black sign preferably triangular, in shape.

Audio/Visual Alarms. Once people have been alerted and have taken the appropriate
action, the next problem is how to tell them that the hazard has passed, or it is all clear.
This will be identified by:

• Vocal gas or fallout clear.


• Steady siren, blast of horn, whistle or other wind instrument.
• Radio broadcasts.
• Removal of black signs.
Warning Signs. As well as being alerted to the attack personnel will also need to be
warned of areas that are contaminated following an attack. The standard NATO signs that
are used to mark areas of contaminated ground are triangular, in shape and are coloured
and marked as follows:

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Radiological warning sign:


• Colour - white with “ATOM” written
in black.
• Details - when and if known the
following should be written - dose
rate, date/time of reading and
date/time of detonation that
producedthe contamination.

Chemical warning sign:


• Colour - yellow with “GAS” written
inred.
• Details - type of agent and
date/timecontamination found

Biological warning sign:


• Colour - blue with “BIO” written
inred.
• Details - type of agent if
known and
• date/time contamination found

Personal and collective protective equipment

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is designed to ensure the combat capability of the
personnel of the units, to ensure the performance of combat missions in the
conditions of use of WMD by the enemy, destruction of potentially hazardous objects
(PHO), as well as in conditions of exposure to damaging environments arising during the
operation and damage of weapons and military equipment.
PPE is divided into personal respiratory protection equipment (PRPE) and personal skin
protectionequipment (PSPE).
According to the principle of protective action, PPE is divided into filtering and insulating.
According to the purpose, PPE is divided into military and special.
Personal respiratory protection equipment (PRPE) includes: gas masks, respirators,
isolating breathing apparatus (IBA), additional cartridge set (ACS), hopcalite cartridge.
Personal skin protection equipment (PSPE) includes: protective clothing of filtering and
insulating type, made of filtering and insulating materials respectively. Depending on the
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principle of combat use and the shortness of use, PPE is divided into permanent and
periodic use, disposable and reusable means.

Respiratory protection equipment

Filtering gas mask is designed to protect respiratory organs, eyes and face skin from
poisonous, radioactive substances and biological aerosols and is a standard means of
protection for all servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
The gas mask consists of a filtering and absorbing system and a facepiece, which are
connected directly or by means of a connecting tube. The gas mask set includes a bag for
its carrying, protection and storage, a box with membranes that prevent fogging of the
glass of the ocular unit, and depending on the type of gas mask may include a knitted
cover with hydrophobic impregnation, a box with spare membranes for the intercom, a
flask lid with a valve, a waterproof bag. In winter, some types of gas masks are completed
with overhead insulating cuffs.
Preparation of the gas mask for use begins with determining the required size of the face
part. Thesize of the face part of PMG, PMG-2 gas masks is determined by the vertical girth
of the head by measuring it along a closed line that passes through the crown, chin and
cheeks. Measurement results are rounded to 0.5 cm.

Use of a filtering gas mask

Filtering gas mask is designed to protect respiratory organs, eyes and face skin from
poisonous, radioactive substances and biological aerosols and is a standard means of
protection for all
servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
The gas mask is used in three positions: "march", "ready" and "combat". In order to bring
the gas mask to the "march" position, you must:
• put on a gas mask bag over the right shoulder so that it is on the left side and
its flap isoutside;

PMG gas mask PMG-2 gas mask


1 - helmet-mask ShMG; 1 - helmet mask ShM-66Mu; 2 - filter-absorbing box EO-
2 - filter-absorbing box EO-18k; 3 - bag; 4 - rubber 62k; 3 - bag; 4 - helmet mask ShM-62; 5 - rubber stopper;6
stopper; 5 - lid with rubber gasket; 6,7 - non- - non-fogging membranes; 7 - membranes of the
foggingmembranes and intercom membranes. intercom for ShM-66Mu; 8 - overhead insulating cuffs;
9 - lid with rubber gasket.

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PMK gas mask PMK-2 gas mask


1 - M-80 mask; 2 - filter-absorbing box EO.1.08.01; 1 - filter-absorbing box ЕО.1.15.; 2 - 01 mask MB-1-80; 3 -
3 - bag; 4 - waterproof bag; bag; 4 - non-fogging membranes; 5 - waterproof bag;
5 - rubber stopper; 6 - lid with rubber gasket; 7 - 6 - cowling; 7 - rubber stopper; 8 - tag; 9 - overhead
tag; insulating cuffs; 10 - cover with valve; 11 - plug;
8 - non-fogging membranes; 12 - grate; 13 - adapters; 14 - liner; 15 - rubber screen
9 - overhead insulating cuffs;
10 - flask lid with valve; 11 - liner; 12 - rubber screen

• adjust the length of the strap with the help of a movable buckle so that the upper
edge ofthe bag is at the level of the upper cut of the waist belt;
• unfasten the flap of the gas mask bag;
• take out the helmet-mask (mask) and check the condition of the ocular unit and
exhalation valves, (liquid intake device); wipe the contaminated glass of the ocular
unit, if the non- fogging membrane has lost transparency, it must be replaced;
• fold the helmet-mask (mask) and put it in the bag, fastening the flap of the gas
mask bag;
• move the bag back so that it does not interfere with the movement of the arm
while walking and, if necessary, fix the gas mask on the body with a belt strap.

In the "ready" position, the gas mask is brought by the command "PREPARE MASK", for
this purpose:

• the bag moves forward so that it is convenient to get a gas mask with two hands;
• the bag flap is unfastened (except for PMG and PMG-2 gas masks), and the waist
strap iswrapped around the waist and fastened;
• headgear and helmet are prepared for quick removal (ropes are untied, flaps
and strapsare unfastened).

The gas mask is switched to the "combat" position by the signal "CHEMICAL ALARM", by
the command "GAS", as well as independently (without commands and signals) when
detecting radioactive contamination, poisonous substances or biological agents.

In this case, you need to quickly close your eyes, hold your breath, remove the headgear
and clamp it between your legs, take out the helmet-mask (mask), taking it with both
hands by the thickened edges at the bottom so that the thumbs are outside the helmet
and the rest are inside; put the lower part of the helmet-mask (mask) under the chin and
pull the helmet on the head with a sharp movement of the hands up and back; make a
sharp exhalation, open your eyes, restore breathing and put on the headgear. If the
helmet-mask is worn with a skew (the glass eyepiece should be against the eyes) or folds
have formed on the mask - correct the helmet-mask and straighten the folds.

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The gas mask is removed by the command "REMOVE PROTECTIVE MASK" ("REMOVE
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT"). In this case, it is necessary to - lift the headgear with one
hand, grasp the valve box with the other hand, pull the helmet-mask (mask) slightly
downwards and remove it by moving forward and upwards; fold the helmet-mask (mask)
and put it in the bag; put on the headgear.

Universal military protective set (OZK)

Universal military protective set (OZK) is designed to protect the skin from toxic
substances, radioactive dust and biological agents, reduce contamination of uniforms,
equipment, footwear of individual weapons, short-term protection against light emission
of nuclear explosion, incendiary mixtures and open flame, as well as reduces the
destructive effect of thermal factors on equipment.

OZK is a means of protection of periodic wear and repeated use. OZK is usually applied
together with impregnated uniforms. OZK consists of a protective cloak OP-1M (1) with a
cover (2), protective willies (4), protective gloves BL-1M (5) and BZ-1M with a warming
liner (6), a cover for stockings and gloves (3).

Universal military protective set (OZK)

The universal military protective set OZK is used in three positions: "march",
"ready" and "combat".
In the "march" position, when the personnel is acting on foot, the OP-1M protective cloak
is carried in a cover behind the back in such a way that the holders of the cloak are
threaded through the frames on the cover, worn on the shoulders of the serviceman and
tied on the chest with a knot that unties; protective willies and gloves folded in a roll so
that the gloves are located with the fingers in the direction of the foot are carried in a
cover on the waist belt on the right.

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In the "ready" position, the OZK is brought in cases where it does not hinder the actions
of the personnel. To do this, unbutton the cover of the cloak and unbutton it behind the
back. The cover with willies and gloves is placed directly behind the bag with magazines,
the cover flap is unbuttoned.
In the "combat" position, the OP-1M cloak is used, dressed in sleeves and in the form of
coverall.

The "ready" position In the "combat" position In the "combat" position:


in the form of a cape cloak “in sleeves”;
cloak in the form of
coverall

The cloak is used in the form of a cape in case of sudden use of poisonous substances or
biological agents by the enemy. The cloak is worn in the form of a cape on the signal
"CHEMICAL ALARM" or independently at the first signs of the use of chemical or
biological weapons by the enemy.

Cloak “in sleeves” it is used during combat operations in the area contaminated with
chemical warfare agents (CWA), biological weapons (BW), radioactive substances (RS);
during decontamination, deactivation and disinfection works; overcoming areas
contaminated with CWA, BW by open vehicles; as well as overcoming areas of radioactive
contamination by open vehicles in conditions of strong dust formation, in anticipation of
radioactive substances falling out of the cloud of a nuclear explosion.

Protective set is put on in non-contaminated area by the command "CLOAK IN SLEEVES!


GAS!".

In the form of a coverall, the OZK protective cloak is used when acting on foot in an area
with tall grass, crops, or shrubs, deep snow, which is contaminated with CWA or BW;
during rescue and evacuation, engineering works and repair of equipment in an area
contaminated with CWA and BW.

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ENGINEERING TRAINING

…Ukraine, Ukraine! Mother, mother dearest! …Україно, Україно! Серце моє, ненько!
When I but recall your fate My heart is all a-weeping! Як згадаю твою долю, заплаче серденько!

The success of a combined arms battle largely depends on carefully organized combat
support. It consists in the organization and implementation of measures aimed at
creating favourable conditions for successful combat, effective use of units,
maintaining their combat capability, preventing a sudden attack of the enemy, reducing
the effectiveness of his fire (strikes) on units, creating favourable conditions for an
organized and timely entry into battle.

One of the main types of combat support is a set of measures for engineering support of
units in order to timely and covertly advance them, deploy them, conduct manoeuvres,
create the necessary conditions for the successful completion of tasks, increase the
level of protection ofunits and objects from enemy weapons, inflict losses on the enemy
and hinder his actions.

Engineering obstacles

Engineering obstacles are divided into mine-explosive, non-explosive and combined.


According totheir purpose, they can be anti-tank, anti-infantry, anti-landing, mixed.

Non-explosive obstacles

Non-explosive barriers are arranged from local materials and industrial products. They
can be earthen, wood, wooden, metal, stone, concrete, reinforced concrete, ice, snow,
etc.

According to their purpose, non-explosive obstacles are divided into anti-tank, anti-
vehicle, anti-infantry and anti-landing obstacles. Mixed non-explosive obstacles are a
combination of anti-tank, anti-infantry and anti-landing obstacles.

Non-explosive obstacles can be stationary in the form of ditches, escarpments, counter-


escarpments, rubble, piles, barricades, snow walls, wire fences on stakes and portable
fences in the form of hedgehogs, slingshots, wire spirals.

Anti-tank and anti-vehicle non-explosive obstacles

Anti-tank and anti-vehicle non-explosive obstacles include: ditches, escarpments,


counter-escarpments, sinkholes, rubble, piles, metal (reinforced concrete) hedgehogs,
tetrahedrons, slingshots, barriers, barricades, and in winter, in addition, snow banks,
icing strips, ice holes, and majors.

Anti-personnel non-explosive obstacles

Anti-personnel non-explosive obstacles include:


low-visibility obstacles, which are arranged from
low-visibility wire mesh, wire spirals, barbed and
smooth wire garland obstacles, wire mesh on
stakes "tripwires", fences, hedgehogs and
slingshots.

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Low-visibility obstacles (tanglefoot wire) are made of standard elements (packages)


of factory production, which are supplied to the troops, made of ring loops of smooth
wire with a diameter of 0.5-0.9 mm. When installing one package, a four-axis spatial mesh
up to 1.2m high, 10m long and10m wide is created.

Deployment of the package into


a tape about 2 m wide, and then
stretching the tape to the full
size of the mesh is performed by
the engineer section. The time
for the installation of 100 m of
netting (10 packages) by the
engineer section is 1 hour.
The lower ends of the net are
fixed to the ground with 25 cm
long stakes, which are driven
every 2 m around the perimeter
of the net. The installed
packages are spliced together at
the top and bottom every meter
with rings or smooth wire. The
barrier made of standard low-visibility wire elements is also a very effective anti-tank
barrier, especially when installed on slopes with an inclination of more than 15° and in
combination with other anti-tank barriers. Wire spirals are installed on the ground in two
to three rows in width and in one to two tiers in height. During installation, the spirals are
interconnected by wire and fastened to the ground with stakes. After installation, each
spiral is a cylinder 10 m long and 90 cm high.

Spirals can be made manually in the field on templates from stakes driven into the ground
around the perimeter with a diameter of 1.2 m. The stakes are wrapped with 50 turns of
barbed wire with a distance of 3 cm between the turns.

Razor wire is used when there is not enough time or there are no conditions for the
arrangement and manufacture of other wire obstacles. It is advisable to use razor wire in
tall grass or in small shrubs, in wetlands, on logging sites among stumps, as well as in
places covered with stones and boulders.

Explosive obstacles

Explosive obstacles make up the basis of engineering obstacles and are installed in
the form ofminefields, groups of mines and individual mines.

Anti-tank mines can be anti-track, anti-bottom and anti-board mines.

They are designed to mine the terrain against enemy combat and transport vehicles.

TM-62 series anti-tank mines include TM-62M, TM-62PZ, TM-62T, TM-62P2, TM-62P,
TM-62D,TM-62B.

Installation of mines of TM-62 series in the position for non-removal is carried out with
the use of MS-3 booby trap.

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Mines of TM-62 series, not fully equipped, are a charge of explosives in a casing (in a shell
or without a casing) with a unified hole for a fuse. During storage, the hole is closed with
a plastic or polyethylene plug.

TM-62M anti-tank mine


General view of a mine with a MVCh fuse Mine section without fuse (with plug)
in the 1 - body; 2 - cork; 3 - gasket;
transport position; 4 - charge; 5 - bottom; 6 - additional
detonator;7 - eyelet for attaching the
handle.

Installation of anti-tank mines

Mines of TM-62 series with fuses MVCH-62, MVZ-62, MVP-62M, MVP-62 and MV-62 are
manually laid in loose and medium soil (the top of the fuse is flush with the soil surface),
as well as in hard soil - with the removal of the fuse protruding from the mine above the
soil surface.

a – in medium-hard and loose soil; b – in hard soil.

To install a mine with a fuse manually is necessary:

• dig a hole and place a mine in it;


• remove the safety pin from the fuse and sharply press the trigger button with
your thumb (after pressing the button, you should hear the noise of a working
clockwork near the MVCH-62 and MVZ-62 fuses);
• mask the mine.

The mine with the MVS-62 fuse is laid manually in the unfrozen soil so that the top of the
fuse is deepened below the soil surface by 2 - 5 cm with a masking layer of soil 5 - 8 cm
thick.

To install a mine with a fuse MVS-62 is necessary:

• dig a hole 15 - 18 cm deep;

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

• place the mine in the hole;


• remove the safety pin and turn the handle to the horizontal position (90°
clockwise);
• mask the mine with soil.

Installation of anti-tank mine TM-62 with fuse MVS-62 manually

To set mines of TM-62 series with a fuse MVSh-62 manually is necessary:

• dig a hole and place the mine in it (when digging a hole in the soil with a turf
cover, the turf is cut in the shape of the letter H so that the firing pin passes
through the middle cut);
• when laying a mine with a long extension, secure the mine as described above;
• return the transfer crane to the combat position (with a red dash against
the letter"Б");
• mask the mine;
• screw on the safety cap;
• put an extension on the head of the firing pin and secure it with a screw.

To defuse a mine with fuses MVD-62, MVZ-63, MVP-62M, MVP-62, MV-62 or MVD-62 is
necessary:

• - remove the masking layer from the mine;


• - transfer the fuse from the combat to the transport position;
• - remove the mine from the place of installation, clean it from the soil and
inspect it todetect damage;
• - put serviceable mines in packaging.

It is necessary to transfer the MVCH fuse from the combat to the transport position:

• remove the rubber cap that covers the diverter valve;


• insert the key into the socket and turn the transfer valve clockwise by 3/4
turn, whilethe starter button should rise up (a click is heard when the button is
lifted);
• return the key to its original position (counter clockwise) and remove it from
thesocket;
• put on the rubber cap;
• put a safety check on the starter button and lock it with a latch.

In winter, there may be some cases of freezing of the starter button, as a result of which
the button will not rise up when turning the crane. In this case, no great effort is required
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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

to turn the key. It is necessary to break the layer of ice connecting the button with the
blaster shield, press the button several times with your thumb or break the ice with the
end of a check (knife blade). After breaking the ice, turn the tap - the button will rise up.

C-EO THREAT

It is important that in case of detection of the location of an explosive


device, it isprohibited:
• approach an object;
• move it or pick it up;
• discharge, throw, strike at it;
• make a fire nearby or throw an object into it;
• Immediately inform the immediate commander or sapper, mark the place of
discovery!

The most common explosive objects (mines)

POM-2 is a tension-acting anti-personnel


fragmentation mine of circular
destruction of remote mining, which has
a metal casing and 4 stretch sensors,
upon contact with which itis detonated.

О3М-72 is similar to the previous one by


its characteristics. It is a pop-up
fragmentation anti-personnel mine of
circular destruction with a metal casing
and stretch sensors. It can be installed in
guided and unguided form.

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

PFM-1 and PFS-1S is a high-explosive anti-


personnel mine designed to destroy
enemy manpower by explosion. It has a
green or brown plastic casing and small
dimensions. It is triggered by a pressure
weighing more than 5 kg and has a self-
detonation mechanism.

MON-200 is a directional anti-personnel


mine. It has a metal casing and target
sensors in the form of tripwires. It differs
from MON-50 mine by its shape and larger
size.

PMN-2 is a high-explosive anti-personnel


mine of pressure operation. It has a
diameter of 12cm and is triggered by
pressing a weight of 5 kg or more. The
plastic body of this mine is green or
brown with a cross-shaped detonator.
They are installed in the ground or on its
surface.

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

MON-50 is a fragmentation anti-


personnel mine of directed action. It has a
plastic casing and sensors in the form of a
tripwire. It can be installed in guided or
unguided form. It is triggered by a force
of 3.5 kg or more.

PTM-3 is a high-explosive anti-tank mine.


It has a metal casing and an
electromagnetic target sensor. The
radius of operation is not less than 3
meters.

Cases of using the latest Russian anti-


personnel mines with seismic sensors are
increasingly recorded. These are POM-3
"Medallion" mines, which are produced only
in Russia. These mines are equipped with a
special electronic unit responsible for
processing signals from the seismic target
sensor and controlling the warhead. The
electronics unit receives signals about
ground vibrations under the mine and
compares them with the signatures
available in the memory. If the vibrations are
similar to those caused by human footsteps,
and also have sufficient amplitude, which indicates the approach, a command is given to
trigger the warhead, which flies to a height of about 1-1.5 m and explodes. At the

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

command of the electronic unit, the knockout charge is activated, after which the
warhead "jumps" to a height of about 1-1.5
m. POM-3 is equipped with a warhead of a new design. Instead of a fragmentation jacket
in the form of a cylinder with grooves or ready-made striking elements, half-finished
fragments are used. The main explosive charge and detonator are installed inside the
structure, assembled from a large number of special rings, shaped like gears. Externally,
the mine "Medallion" in the transport position is a metal cylinder with a diameter of about
6-7 cm and a height of about 20 cm. Such dimensions allow to lay the mines with the help
of remote mining systems, which include cassettes of the corresponding type.

Procedure for detecting explosive devices

It is important that all personnel understand the standard operating procedures for
detecting explosive ordnance and improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

5m & 20m Checks (5s and 20s)

This is predominantly used as a C-IED drill however it should become second nature to all
soldiers on every patrol as it gives a level of assuredness against other forms of close
quarter attack and promotes situational awareness by troops during a patrol. As soon as a
patrol goes static, the immediate surrounding area must be secured and searched by 5
and 20m checks. Wire laid for a Command Wire IED (CWIED), poorly camouflaged IED
components, and ground sign may all be discovered when the area is investigated by a
thorough visual search. By removing the threat from the immediate area, if a device is
initiated outside the 20 metres searched it is far less likely to cause any casualties. Once
an area or route has been cleared and rigorously marked, personnel need to stick to it.

1) 5m check is carried out in the


immediate vicinity of the
Vulnerable Point using
equipment and ensuring a visual
search is carried out.

2) Once the 5 m check is done a


20m check is then carried out,
ideally this is an equipment
search out to a radius of 20,
however depending on the
tactical situation it may be an
equipment or visual search to
20m.

3) This drill does not only apply tovehicle moves, any time you takea knee while on patrol
you should be carrying out your own 5m checks and if stationary for a period 20m
checks.

Breaching Operation (Minefield)

An enemy force is likely to use all types of existing and reinforcing obstacles to delay and
disrupt the attacker's advance. Obstacles include rivers, minefields, anti-tank ditches,
wire, demolitions, forest and urban areas and, possibly, nuclear or chemical
contamination. Mines may be the sole constituent of an obstacle or they may be used to
supplement and reinforce other types of hazard. The attacking force must seek to

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bypass or breach these obstacles as quickly as possible in order to maintain the


momentum of the advance.

Minefield Breaching Methods

Hand Breaching. Hand breaching relies on individual mines and other UXO being located
bydismounted soldiers on foot. The mines are then either removed or destroyed. This is a
slow but thorough process and may be used in conjunction with other methods.

Explosive Breaching. An explosive-filled hose is projected across the minefield. The


detonation of the hose may detonate, disrupt or displace the mines. It is a quick method,
once the equipment is on site, but the total clearance of mines cannot be assured. Its
effectiveness dependson the types of mine and other UXO and on ground conditions. The
detonation of the hose, and mines, can do considerable damage to the ground and,
without repair, the breach is unlikely to be passable to wheeled vehicles.

Mechanical Breaching. Plough blades are mounted in front of each track of a tank for a
track- width mine plough (TWMP). For a full-width mine plough (FWMP), an additional
plough blade clears the area between the tracks. The blades displace or detonate the
mines as the tank traverses the minefield. It is a relatively quick method and there is a
high degree of assurance that the actual furrows are clear of all mines and other UXO, but
there may be mines remaining between the furrows if a TWMP is used.

Neither explosive nor mechanical breaching requires the location of individual mines or
unexploded ordnance. Combinations of the above methods may be used.
Hand Breaching (Minefield):

a) Location. The location of mines using manual techniques requires systematic


inspection of the ground. The techniques may include the use of observation,
touch, trip wire feelers, prodders, electronic mine detectors and dogs.

b) Observation (Look). Experience has shown that most mines are found by visual
search. Normally when laying mines, there is insufficient time and effort available
to camouflage them thoroughly. Although some of the indications of mine laying
gradually disappear, traces remain to be observed by those who have eyes to see
them. A systematic and detailed inspection of the ground from the prone or
kneeling position often reveals indications of a mine (either parts of the mine or
signs of digging) which are not apparent to the casual observer. Night vision aids
may be assistance at night and can be used by day to focus attention.

c) Touch (Feel). The sense of touch takes the place of the sense of sight at night. A
man in the prone position can feel effectively over a strip approximately 1m wide.
He systematically searches a band of ground across his front, feeling for parts of
the mine or indications that the ground has been disturbed. This phase of a
location procedure is very time consuming and should not be used in daylight
unless the ground prevents observation (e.g. thick, low vegetation), or there are
no time constraints.

d) Prodding (Prod). Prodding is a method of locating buried mines by systematically


prodding the ground to a depth of approximately 75mm to detect solid objects.
Prodding should normally be carried out using a mine prodder, but in an
emergency any thin, rigid, pointed instrument may be used.

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

e) Prodding Technique. The prodder is pushed gently


but firmly into the ground at an angle of
approximately 30 degrees to the horizontal (sees
Figure 4/1). This is to avoid pressing down on the
pressure plate of a mine. Prodding must be carried
out to a regular pattern, to ensure that no ground is
missed. The searcher should work in a line across a
front, inserting the prodder approximately every
50mm; move forward another 50mm and complete
another line. The spacing at which the prodder is
inserted may be varied to cater for the
smallest mine that is likely to be
encountered. A soldier can prod
effectively a strip approximately 1m
wide. This is a slow and tiring technique
and efficiency drops off rapidly.
Soldiers should be relieved at regular
intervals.

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SKILL AT ARMS

And on the renovated land І на оновленій землі


There’ll be no enemy, no rival, Врага не буде, супостата,
There will be son and will be mother, А буде син і буде мати,
There will be people on the land… І будуть люди на землі…

Skill at arms includes the study of the material part of weapons, the basics and rules of
firing, firing techniques; techniques and rules of throwing hand grenades; methods of
reconnaissance of targets and determination of distances to them, as well as fire control
and application of fire. During the classes on the study of the material part, the students
get to know the purpose, combat properties and components of weapons, ammunition,
devices, and rules of their maintenance, storage and preparation for firing.

Every serviceman must unconditionally and accurately comply with all safety rules and
requirements during shooting (Appendix 3).

Marksmanship Principles

It is essential that all soldiers are capable of firing their rifle accurately and instinctively
under all conditions in particular during battle. This is best achieved if the soldier has a
good understanding of the 4 Marksmanship Principles. To become a good shot you must
not only learn but also understand the principles and be able to apply them when firing.
Typical procedures for shooting and hand grenade throwing exercises are given in
Appendices 4 and 5 respectively.

The Battle Shot. To be a good battle shot it is essential, first, to learn and understand the
4 marksmanship principles and to shoot well from the prone position. As this is the most
stable of all the firing positions and from the techniques mastered in this position, other
techniques and skills required to become a good battle shot will follow.

When firing use the Marksmanship Principles. To become a good shot you must not only
learn, but understand and apply these at all times. Try to learn them as listed below and
then think about how they are being used when firing. If unsure ask your instructor:

1) The position and hold must be firm enough to support the weapon.
2) The weapon must point naturally at the target without undue physical effort.
3) Sight alignment and the sight picture must be correct.
4) The shot must be released and followed through without undue disturbance to the
position.

The next paragraph deals with points 1 and 2, building up a stable position and aligning
correctly towards the target. Later we will cover aiming and firing the shot, which are the
3rd and 4th principles.

Key Point Check List

To shoot well you must ensure that you have provided a good shooting platform in order
that the position has bone support, muscular relaxation and is naturally pointing onto the
POA (Point of Aim). To do this you have to progressively build up the firing position. The
following key points check list is common to all shooting positions:

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

There are two recognised prone firing positions;


soldiers are encouraged to try both. Maintain
target alignment, open the legs until the feet are
shoulder’s width apart and feel comfortable. The
feet are positioned with the toes pointing
outwards and the inside of the heels on the
ground. This position ensures that the right side
of the body, including all of the right leg is
immediately behind the rifle; it provides maximum
support and reduces the effects of recoil.

Leg Position 1

Adjust the body until it is slightly angled to the


left of the line of fire. Open the legs with the left
leg on the same line as the body, leg relaxed and
toes turned inwards. Bend the right leg, drawing it
up to form a continuation of the line of fire, the
right foot pointing outwards with the heel on
the ground. This position lifts the chest higher
off the ground and assists ease of breathing.
When getting up, maintain a firm grip with the
right hand on the pistol grip, ensure that no part
of the rifle comes into contact with the ground,
stand up and adopt the loaded position.

Leg Position 2

Adopt the prone unsupported position. Once the


position and hold are correct, move the elbows
outwards until the magazine is in contact with the
ground. Care must be taken to ensure that there
are no loose stones beneath the magazine.
Alternatively rest the magazine on the ground
first ensuring that there are no loose stones
beneath it. Move the body up to the rifle to ensure
good contact with the butt and build up the
position.

Magazine Support Position

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

Assuming a position, firmly grip the pistol grip with your right hand, ensuring no part of
the rifle touches the ground, and proceed to load the rifle.

Position the butt into the shoulder and hold the


rifle with both hands using a relaxed grip. Align
along the barrel axis and adjust the body line until
the weapon points naturally towards the target.
Look along the line of the barrel to check for
obstructions forward of the muzzle. Checking for
muzzle clearance is necessary because it is
possible to achieve a clear line of sight to the
target and at the same time have an obstruction
in front of the barrel. Correctly placing the butt in
the shoulder or on ECBA reduces the recoil effect,
it helps steady the rifle and prevents the butt
slipping. The butt must not be placed onto the
collar bone.
Butt Position

The left hand is positioned under the handguard,


as far forward as comfortable. Open the left hand
fully, fingers together while resting the
handguard across the palm. Allow the fingers to
close around the handguard. The left hand
should be relaxed with a firm enough hold to
maintain steadiness. No attempt should be made
to grip the handguard tightly or to pull backwards.

Left Elbow. The left elbow is placed naturally on


the ground and positioned as close as possible to
a point directly below the weapon. This ensures
bone and not muscular support.
Left Hand Position

The right hand is the controlling hand and must


grip the pistol grip firmly.
To achieve this, raise the right elbow off the
groundand open the hand. Position the web of the
forefinger and thumb as high as comfortably
possible on the pistol grip and directly behind it,
then wrap the fingers around the grip with the
forefinger outside the trigger guard.

Right Elbow.
Without disturbing the hold and without tilting
the rifle, lower the right elbow to a natural
position. A firm, consistent, rearward pressure
must be exerted to keep the butt in its proper
Right Hand
position in the shoulder, this is especially
important when wearing ECBA.

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BASIC COMBAT INFANTRYMAN'S TRAINING

The head position is very important because


this will affect your eye relief and sight
alignment. Lower the head lightly onto the cheek
piece. Place the cheek at the same spot each time
for consistent and correct eye relief.

The head should be upright to maintain the


instinctive sense of balance and to position the
centre of the eye straight behind the sight

Head Position

Relaxation in position. The conscious effort required to relax in the firing position and
to avoid muscle strain which will result in movement of the rifle and the aim picture.

Breathing. These will be dealt with in great detail during the rifle lessons. That said
whilst firing the soldier must learn to totally relax when firing, since the rifle is an
extension of the firer’s body.

Types of Fire

There are different types of fire that can be used in order to destroy or defeat the enemy,
while preventing wastage of ammunition. Your Section Commander will often order the
type of fire to be used but you must know how to use each of them correctly. The
types of fire used in battle are:

• Deliberate. A slow rate of fire, not normally more than 10 rounds per minute
ordered after the enemy has been suppressed in order to prevent the enemy
returning aimed fire, observing or moving.

• Snap Shooting. Intermittent, opportunity shooting at enemy who appear for


short periods whilst moving from cover to cover.

• Rapid Fire. Used to win the fire fight or when the enemy are assaulting. Its use
must be controlled to conserve ammunition. With practice up to 30 aimed
shots per minute at different targets can be achieved.

• Automatic Fire. Normally used in CQB, during the final stages of an assault, to
repel a mass attack, in house and trench clearing, bunkers and woods.
Ammunition availability will influence the rate of fire ordered or decided by the
individual.

Deliberate rate of fire will use deliberate trigger operation, while snap and rapid use
continuoustrigger operation.

Aiming and Firing the Shot

Where to Aim. During the early stages of shooting a white patch is placed on the target.
You are toalways aim at the BOTTOM CENTRE of the White patch.

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When engaging targets without a patch you are to use a point of aim that will ensure
your roundshit centrally on the target.

In battle, an enemy may be located by muzzle flash, smoke or movement.

When engaging a large target such as a hedgerow, the commander may indicate an
enemy position or positions. In every case you are to select a POA that will ensure you hit
the target.

Wind and other factors affect the fall of shot. With this in mind you may have to aim
away from the centre of the target and at times you may have to aim off the target to
ensure you hit the target.

Point Relationship. As you may be required to


use an iron sight you must also understand how
to aim withthis sight.

Eye: Close the left eye.

Aperture: Look through the centre of the


Aperture.

Sight: Centralise the tip of the Foresight in the


aperture. Ensure the foresight is upright and
clearly in focus.

It may be necessary to move your head slightly to


achieve correct sight alignment. Once alignment
is achieved it is important that the head stays still.

Target: Focus on the tip of the foresight. Place it


on to your selected POA to ensure that your
rounds will land centrally on the Target to
complete the sight picture.
When correct the POA on the target will become
blurred.
During the aiming / firing process you will have
to switch your eyes focus between the
foresight and your POA in order to maintain the
correct aim picture.
It is essential to focus back to the foresight
immediately before firing the shot.

Firing the Shot

If the 4 Marksmanship principles are adopted and applied the bullet will go in the
direction the barrel is pointing and will hit the target.

The shot should be fired without disturbing the aim.

To do this the fire position and hold must be stable and the weapon must point naturally
at the target.

Providing the rhythm of breathing is controlled and the trigger is operated smoothly
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(Without Snatching or flinching), the shot will be released and the bullet will leave the
muzzle without any undue movement of the weapon.

Breathing Control. When firing we need to make sure we remain perfectly still to ensure
the SUSAT pointer is on the correct place on the target, and that it stays there until the
shot has been fired. Your instructor will show you how to do this in the classroom and you
can practice using the following steps:

• Take a few deep breaths in and out which will ensure you have plenty of oxygen
in yourblood. This helps extend the pause in the cycle.

• Breathe out normally without forcing and then pause.

• This is the natural pause in the breathing cycle and you should be able to
maintain thisfor a few seconds without breathing in.

• Notice during the pause you are able to remain still, which allows correct firing
to takeplace.

• After a few seconds you will also notice that you begin to strain. If this
occurs whenfiring, do not operate the trigger but take a couple of breaths then
pause before firing.

Trigger Operation. Now that you know how to aim we are ready to look at operating the
trigger. It is important we do this smoothly, and without moving position. Once shown
how to do this you should practice trigger operation using the following steps:

1) Aim as shown and take a couple of big breaths in and out. The pointer will move
duringbreaths.
2) As you start to breathe out the second time pull back on the trigger until you meet
resistance;called taking up first pressure.

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3) Once your breathing is paused we ensure our aim is correct and squeeze the
trigger withcontinuous rearward pressure.
4) Ensure that only the front part of the finger is in contact with trigger and the rest
does nottouch the trigger guard.
5) Once the trigger is fully to the rear hold it for a second, continuing to hold your
breath.
6) Then release the trigger and start to breathe again.
7) This is called follow through and ensures the weapon does not move until the shot
has left theweapon.
8) If you release the trigger straight away this can move the barrel, which is called
snatching.
9) If you breathe in too quickly you can also affect the shot which may cause you to miss.
Types of Trigger Operation. There are two ways in which we operate the trigger, which
depends on the type of firing we are carrying out. They are as follows:

1) Deliberate trigger operation is used when the soldier has time to deliver deliberate
fire. The process above is used taking around six seconds to fire each round. We use
this type during grouping, zeroing and when applying deliberate rate of fire. The rates
of fire are covered later.

2) Continuous trigger operation. This is used when we have less time to fire, such as at
an enemy moving in and out of cover, or to fire at a higher rate, known as rapid fire.
The process is speeded up removing the two initial breaths. On appearance of the
target we quickly exhale to allow breath control before firing. It is important to
quickly take perfect the aim and ensure we remember to apply follow through once
the shot is fired. If firing rapid short quick breaths are taken and we fire at a rhythm,
approximately ever two seconds.

Declaration. In training when firing using deliberate trigger operation you will be asked
to make a declaration. You should observe the position of the pointer at the moment you
fire the shot.

If in the correct place then you say “correct”. If not, for example if the weapon moves just
as you operate the trigger, you should state “incorrect” and state where the pointer was
when the trigger was operated, such as “low right”. Each time you fire the weapon, recoil
will cause the pointer to move. This cannot be avoided but the movement should always
be the same. If different for one shot you should also inform the person recording your
declarations.

Firing from the Combat / Battle Positions

During tactical training or on Operations it is often impossible to engage targets from the
prone position because of undergrowth, crops or cover in a built up area.

Combat / Battle Positions give the soldier the option when required to maintain stable
firing platform and engage the enemy effectively.

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Kneeling Position. The kneeling position can be


quickly and easily adopted particularly when
advancing. It is best used when using low cover. It
provides reasonable stability when adopted
correctly and can be maintained for fairly lengthy
periods.

Sitting Position. The sitting position applies when


firing from a forward slope, low cover, in an ambush
position or at moving targets at short ranges.
There are two positions that you can adopt
depending on personal preference.

Squatting Position The Squatting Position is a


useful alternative to the kneeling position and
with practice can be adopted more quickly. The
firer may have to adopt the position to suit their
build.

Standing Position. The Standing Position is used


when firing from a trench or at fleeting targets
during the advance to contact. It will normally be
the initial engagement fire position. When taking
cover or evasive action, another position would be
adopted.

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Use of Cover

1) Protection and cover from view.

Fire around the right side of the cover to present


less of a target to the enemy and if the cover is
narrow, get directly behind it and keep the legs
together.

If possible fire through cover not over it, remove


a few bricks near ground level and fire through a
wall. When firing from inside a building keep back in
the shadows.

Cover from view is not bullet proof should you be observed. Avoid being isolated and
alwaysconsider routes in and out of a position.

2) Free use of weapons and grenades.


a) Select the most suitable firing position, in scrub, adopt the kneeling or squatting
positionfor short periods, if staying longer the sitting position would be better.
b) To avoid injury or stoppages, solid cover close to the ejection opening must be
avoided.
3) An unobstructed view of the arc of fire.
a) The need for muzzle clearance is essential for all combat positions, to combine
protection,keep as close to the top of the bank or crest as possible.
b) Because of optics restricted fields of view, before firing, look over the sight and
check theimmediate area to the left and right of the line of fire for personnel.
4) Stability to the combat position chosen.
a) Adapt firing positions previously taught to suit the particular cover used, for
example, usethe corner of a trench using the prone position.
b) Always try to rest the forearm, back of the hand or hand guard on the cover. Do
not restthe barrel as this will displace the shots.

Marksmanship Terminology

Point of Aim (POA) – the point on the target you are to aim at.

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Correct Zeroing Position (CZP) – the CZP is the point on the target where the rounds
should be landing. The distance and direction between the POA and the CZP will depend
on the Weapon, Sighting System and the Range at which you are firing.

Personal Zeroing Position (PZP) - once a weapon has been zeroed the Small Arms
Collimator (SAC) is used to record the PZP. This measurement can then be used to check
that the weapon is still zeroed as part of preparing the weapon for firing.

Group - a number of rounds (no less than 3) fired at the same POA from the same
position. Mean Point of Impact (MPI) - the centre of the group.

Aiming Off

Range Targets. When a soldier can achieve a satisfactory grouping standard and has had
their weapon zeroed, they will progress to shooting at other forms of target. These
targets will nolonger have aiming patches but will be superimposed on witness screens.

The screens will eventually be removed and the soldier will be confronted with just the
straightforward target.

Aiming Off (Equal and Opposites). If the round misses the target the firer should apply
an ‘equal and opposite’ adjustment to the original POA, i.e. if the round misses low and to
the left, the firer must adjust his POA by an equal amount high and to the right.

Alterations to the Ranges Sights. Corrections for elevation only can be corrected by
altering the range setting or sight picture of a ranged sight.

Miss Drill

In the event of continually missing a target without strike being seen carry out the
following actions:

1) Aim at the base of the target and adjust the POA from the observation of strike.
Continue to aim lower and fire until strike can be observed. The firer must rigidly apply
the ‘Equal and Opposite’ concept once a POA has been positively identified by strike.

2) Ensure that sight alignment and sight picture remain correct when adjusting the POA.

The effects of wind on the passage of a bullet are:

1) Only a wind blowing across the front at ranges greater than 100 metres will make the
bullet veer considerably. To allow for this, aim off into the wind: the direction of the
wind can be determined by its effects on the face, trees, dust and smoke. The amount
that you aim off is determined by the strength of the wind:

2) A fresh wind has an appreciable effect on bushes and thin branches of trees and can
be distinctively felt on the side of the face. It would cause range flags to stand about
halfway out from the pole.

A strong wind has a noticeable effect on tree tops and lifts dust of dry ground. Range
flags would tend to strain away from their poles.

In windy conditions at ranges of greater than 100m, the following points of aim relative to
the Figure 11 targets should be used for fresh wind (16 km/h) and strong wind (32 km/h).

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Fresh wind 200m. Point of Aim (POA) is halfway between


the centre and edge of the target:

Strong wind 200m. Point of Aim (POA) is the edge of the


target:

Fresh wind 300m. Point of Aim (POA) is the edge of the


target:

Strong wind 300m. Point of Aim (POA) is one target width


fromthe centre of the target.

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Firing at Crossing Targets

Many shots fired under operational conditions will be at short ranges against moving
targets,some of which will be crossing the front. The enemy will move quickly from cover
to cover and will expose themselves for the shortest possible time. The soldier must
therefore learn to anticipate the enemy’s movements, the allowances to make and the
techniques used to apply them in any firing position. The standing or kneeling position
will be used most in complex terrain, during the advance and in attack. The soldier must
realise that quick reaction and accurate shooting are essential when engaging moving
targets, as is frequent practice to achieve and maintain the high degree of skill required.

Crossing Target Allowance. When a shot is fired at a moving target, the target continues
to move during the time of flight of the bullet. To allow for this movement it is necessary
to aim in front of the target otherwise shots will fall behind it. This aiming in front, to
anticipate the movement of the target, is known as ‘Lead’.

1) The amount of ‘lead’ necessary will depend on the speed, range and direction of
movement. A running man will require more ‘lead’ than a man walking. A target moving
obliquely across the front will require less ‘lead’ than a direct crossing target, and
one moving head on or away from the firer will require no lead at all. Finally, the
further the target is away the greater is the‘lead’ required to allow for its movement.

2) Soldiers must acquire the ‘feel’ for the correct ‘lead’ necessary to hit moving targets
under various conditions. Only by frequent practice will proficiency be achieved.

3) Targets at long range are normally more difficult to hit and if they are beyond 300
metres firers using Iron Sights will have to aim higher than normal. Firers with optic
sights may need to increase the range setting but maintain normal elevation.

4) Automatic fire may be used against targets that present a mass, particularly at the
shorter ranges.

Methods of Engaging Direct and Oblique Crossing Targets. Crossing targets are
engaged by firing when the correct ‘lead’ or POA has been taken relevant to the target.
There are two methods of engaging moving targets, tracking and ambushing.

The Tracking Method. The firer tracks the target as it moves and is less likely to miss
behind. The whole of the upper body pivots from the waist, therefore, other than
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when firing from longer distances, it is not possible to use the method easily when firing
from the kneeling or sitting positions. The standing position offers the greatest freedom
of movement. The tracking method comprises of three stages:

a) The Mount. Identifying and acquiring the target in the sight’s field of view. On the
appearance of the target, come from the alert position, mount the rifle to bring
the target into the field of view and continue swinging in the direct of the target
passing it from behind.

b) Tracking. Move the pointer/foresight through the target to the correct lead for
the speed, distance and direction of the target and continue to swing and correct
the POA.

c) Firing the Shot and Follow Through. Fire the shot smoothly, and without checking,
continue to track ready for a second or subsequent shots. Follow through
(continuing the swing) prevents the sight falling behind the target during shot
release.

d) Although described in three phases the whole sequence must be developed so


that it becomes one smooth action. If the situation/cover dictates that the
tracking method is used from the kneeling or sitting positions, the elbows are
raised from the knees and the back is straightened so that the firer can rotate
from the waist to track the target.

The Ambush Method. This method is used when it is difficult to swing with the target,
i.e., in the prone or sitting position with both elbows rested.

a) Select a POA ahead of the target.

b) Come into the aim.

c) Commence firing prior to the target reaching the selected POA.

d) Continue firing until the target is hit, goes to ground or the selected POA falls
behind thetarget.

Shotgun Technique

Operational conditions may not allow the soldier time to use the sights. In this situation
the ‘Shotgun’ technique should be used, i.e. both eyes open, head up and the left hand
gripping the hand guard well forward, with the index finger extended and pointing
naturally at the target. Concentrate on the target not the barrel line. This technique can
be effective up to 150 metres.

Judging of distances with the help of automatic rifle sight

To determine the covering of the front sight (reticle aperture), you can use the formula:
where: К – front sight covering in mm;
Д – distance to the target in mm;
Р – known size of the rifle front sight (2 mm);
S – distance from the eye to the top of the front sight in mm.

The covering of the front sight for AK47 at a range of 100


meters will be equal to 303 mm (for the convenience of
measurements, the covering of the AK front sight is considered
as half a human figure - 25 cm)
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At other ranges, the covering of the front sight (aperture) will be greater than the
obtained one by as many times as the distance to the target is more than 100 m. For
example, at 400 m, the covering will be 1.2 m or, for example, 2.5 chest figures. The same
way is used to calculate the covering values of other weapons.

Distance in meters
The covering of the
100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000
front sight for AK47
The covering in meters
Sight thickness 0,3 0,6 0,9 1,2 1,5 1,8 2,1 2,4 2,7 3,0
Aperture width 0,6 1,2 1,8 2,4 3,0 3,6 4,2 4,8 5,4 6,0

D = 300 m
D = 100 m

D = 200 m D = 400 m

Close Quarter Battle (CQB)

During operations, it is highly likely that Infantry soldiers will be expected to engage and
kill the enemy at extremely close quarters. It is vital that every soldier is trained in the
correct techniques for engaging enemy in Close Quarter Battle.

Close Quarter Battle Position:

a) Aggressive Action. Fix bayonets if hand to hand combat


is anticipated.
b) Preparation. If equipped with a secondary weapon and a
close quarter engagement is expected, the rifle sling is
to be slung on the opposite side to normal. The
secondary weapon holster is to be placed in a quick draw
position.
c) Stance. Adopt the ‘alert’ position and ensure the change
lever is set to ‘R’.
d) Close Quarter Battle Position. If a close quarter
engagement is expected then the body position should
be modified as follows:
• Body Position. Position the body so that the front
body armour plate is fully exposed in the direction of
the enemy.
• Leg Position. Place your feet side by side, shoulder
width apart. Bend your legs to maintain your balance
and lean slightly forward to absorb the recoil.
• Butt Position. If possible, adopt a normal butt
position. If wearing Osprey body armour, the butt is positioned firmly on the
plate between the shoulder and the sternum. The position of the weapon
should be high enough to use the EBS (red dot sight if issued)

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• Left Hand. This can be positioned forward of the down grip and pulling
rearwards on the down grip as previously taught or on the down grip with the
left index finger placedalongside the hand guard pointing towards the target in
order to speed up target acquisition time.
• Left Elbow. This is positioned under the weapon to prevent striking close
objects.
• Right Hand. The right hand remains the controlling hand and pulls the pistol
griprearwards.
• Right Elbow. The right elbow is tucked in to prevent striking close objects.
• Head Position. The head should remain upright to ensure clear vision and
threat awareness.
Scanning and Breathing. Both eyes should remain open throughout the engagement to
maintain situational awareness. To maintain a stable CQB position, the firer must relax
the body andbreathe deeply to oxygenate the muscle groups. This will mean that when a
target is presented, the hold and aim can be stable for longer periods of time.

Aiming at Close Quarters. Aim using the optic or the EBS (red dot sight, if issued). An
area aim is used as previously taught. Time should not be wasted in achieving an exact
Point of Aim (POA). The following POA are to be used on the human body at close
quarters:

1) Torso. This is the normal POA. Aim at the centre of the visible mass (solar plexus).

2) Head. This is used if the enemy are protected with body armour. If the target is facing
forwards, aim at the imaginary ‘T’ made up of joining the eyes together and the tip
of the nose. If the target is side on, aim at the ear. If the target is facing away, aim at
the base of the skull.

Firing from the Left Side of Cover. Experience on operations has identified the
requirement to fire from the left shoulder when fighting in restricted areas. The ability to
maximize the use of cover reduces the amount of body the firer exposes to the enemy
during CQB.

Ammunition consumption control

When firing, it is important to keep track of ammunition, otherwise at the most


unexpected moment you may find yourself without ammunition against an armed
enemy. Sometimes soldiers make a slot along the magazine to control the consumption
of ammunition. The disadvantage of this option is the rapid contamination of the
magazine, which can lead to delays or complete failure of the weapon when firing.

The following method has repeatedly confirmed its effectiveness. At the end of the
magazine, load 3-5 rounds with a tracer bullet so that after them there are 3-5 more
rounds with a regular bullet. When you fire and see that the tracers are gone, this will be a
signal for you to get ready to reload,but you still have 3-5 rounds left for the last turn.

When driving on vehicles, patrolling and similar situations, it is desirable that the first
magazine is loaded with cartridges with tracer bullets. In case of need to open fire, for
example, in case of a sudden collision with the enemy, it gives:

• the whole group instantly determines where to fire;


• the ability to quickly adjust the fire;
• additional psychological impact on the enemy (he not only hears but also sees
bullets flying in his direction). In addition, when operating in conditions of
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limited visibility, the enemy may get the impression that he faced a larger
group, since traditionally "tracers" are charged through 3-5 conventional
rounds.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Weapons must be kept in good condition and always ready for their intended use. This is
achieved through timely cleaning, lubrication and proper storage of weapons, careful
handling and timely repair of breakdowns and damage.

Cleaning and lubrication of weapons

Weapons are cleaned and lubricated under the direct supervision of the section
commander. He/she determines the extent of disassembly, cleaning and lubrication
required, checks the serviceability of the accessories and the quality of the cleaning
materials, the correctness and quality of the cleaning, and gives permission for
lubrication and assembly, checks the correctness of the lubrication and assembly of the
weapon.

Weapons are cleaned:

a) In preparation for shooting;

b) After firing live and blank ammunition immediately after the end of firing at the
firing range (in the field); the receiver, barrel channel, gas chamber, gas piston,
bolt frame and bolt are cleaned and lubricated; the weapon is cleaned and
lubricated after returning from firing and daily for the next 34 days;

c) After direct performance of tasks and exercises in the field without firing upon
returning from a mission or exercise;

d) In a combat situation and during long-term exercises, daily during periods of lull in
combat and during breaks in training;

e) If the weapon is not used at least once a week

After cleaning, the weapon is lubricated. Apply the lubricant to a well-cleaned, dry metal
surface immediately after cleaning to prevent moisture from affecting the metal.

Preparing weapons for firing

Preparation of the weapon for firing is carried out under the supervision of the section
commander in order to ensure its trouble-free operation during firing.

To prepare a weapon for firing, it is necessary to: clean, inspect, disassemble and
lubricate the weapon; inspect the weapon in its assembled form; inspect magazines
(boxes, tapes); inspect optical sights and, if necessary, wipe the protective glasses.

Immediately before firing, the barrel channel must be cleaned dry, the ammunition
inspected and the magazines (belts) loaded with it. If the weapon has been in the cold for
a long time, pull the bolt carrier back and forward several times before loading it.

Storage and preservation of weapons and ammunition

Machine guns, assault rifles, grenade launchers and bayonets are stored in racks, and
pistols and ammunition in lockable iron or iron-lined cabinets or boxes. Rifles and
machine guns are stored in pyramids, with the triggers cocked, the fire selector on the

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safety, and the sighting rail clamp pulled back fully. Magazines are stored unloaded.

An inventory shall be posted in the rack, indicating the type and number of weapons
stored in it. The inventory shall be signed by the unit commander. The keys to the
weapons rooms and pyramids are kept by the unit duty officer at all times.

When marching on foot, weapons are kept in the "belt" or "behind the back" position. In a
combat situation, when travelling in combat vehicles and cars, weapons must always be
on hand. When travelling by rail, weapons are placed in special racks or boxes.

When establishing a firing position, assault rifles are laid on the ground with the bolt
handle down, machine guns are mounted on bipods near the firing position in readiness
to fire.

Tactical and technical characteristics of the main types of weapons

Basics of safe handling of weapons:

1) Weapons should always be considered loaded.


2) The weapon should be pointed only in the direction where you plan to
shoot.
3) Always check what is behind the target.
4) Keep your finger away from the trigger until you are ready to shoot.

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Preparing weapons for firing

General

One of the significant factors affecting the results of firing, and combat
readiness in general, is the quality of the weapon's combat tests and proper
zeroing.

All weapons in the units should always be zeroed properly and have calibrated
sights.

The weapon is tested for combat (sighting):


• When it is received by the unit.
• After repair and replacement of parts that could change its performance.
• When significant deviations of bullets (grenades) are detected during firing.
• When putting the weapon in storage.
• In combat conditions, periodically at every opportunity.

It is also recommended to check the sights before each shooting session.

Before checking the firearm's action and sighting, the firearm and sights should be
thoroughly inspected and repaired, if necessary.

The purpose of a firearms test is to determine


whether the dispersion of the hit points and
the position of the main point of impact (MPI)
meet the established standards. These norms
are specified for each type of weapon in the
relevant instructions, manuals, and technical
descriptions. The summary zeroing table of is
given in Appendix 6.

Firing during firing test and zeroing should be


carried out, as a rule, by the servicemen
themselves with their assigned weapons or by Fig. 14. A black rectangle (target) that can
the best marksmen selected by the unit be used to test the firing of a weapon and
zeroing (on the shield)
commander.

The firing test and zeroing is carried out by firing a single batch of conventional
bullet ammunition at a distance of 100 m to the test target. Shooting is carried
out at the test target (Fig. 15) or at a black rectangle measuring 35 cm in height
and 25 cm in width (Fig. 14), fixed on a white shield 1 m high and 0.5 m wide. To
prevent the weapon from falling over and for ease of aiming, the target boards
are mounted strictly along the overhang, and the aiming point should be
approximately at the height (level) of the shooter's head.

The aiming point is the middle of the lower edge of the test target cut off along
the white line corresponding to the firearm (middle of the lower rectangle). The
control point (CP) (normal position of the main point of impact (MPI)) - is the
centre of the circles on the sighting target; on the black rectangle, the position
of the CT is marked along a line above the aiming points at a distance stipulated

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by the firearms inspection rules.

Shooting from assault rifles, rifles and carbines


is carried out from the prone position with a
rest. A bag of wood shavings or sand may be
used as a support. Machine guns are fired from
a prone position on medium-density ground,
pistols are fired from a standing or prone
position with or without a rest.

The sights of grenade launchers are checked


by the crew. The check of combat and bringing
assault rifles, rifles, carbines and pistols to Fig. 15. Test target: Lines for verification:
normal combat is carried out by firing single 1 - weapons using the 1943 ammunition;
2 - SVD;
shots and machine guns first by firing single 3 - PK(M). and 5.45 mm AK(S);
shots, then by automatic fire. 6 - pistols and revolvers;
7 - 12.7 mm heavy machine gun;
Sights are checked against a test target. 8 - 5.45 mm RPK

Testing the fire of small arms

To test the fire of a weapon, the shooter fires four single shots, carefully and
consistently aiming at the centre of the lower edge of the test target (black rectangle).
At the end of the firing, the commander in charge of the combat check inspects the
target and determines the accuracy and position of the MPI by the location of the holes.
Shooters are not allowed to inspect the targets.

The accuracy of fire is considered normal if all four holes (four are required for SVDs) or
three (if one hole is detached) fit within the circle (dimension) specified in Appendix 6.

If the number of holes does not meet this requirement, the shooting shall be repeated. In
case of repeated unsatisfactory results, the weapon must be sent to a repair facility to
eliminate the causes of the bullet scatter.

If the accuracy of the hole pattern is found to be normal, the commander determines the
MPI and its position relative to the CT.

To determine the MPI from four holes (Fig. 16, a, b), it is necessary:

• Connect the two nearest holes with a straight line and divide the distance
between them in half;
• Connect the resulting point with the third hole and divide the distance
between them into three equal parts;
• Connect the dividing point closest to the first two holes with the fourth hole
and divide the distance between them into four equal parts.

The dividing point closest to the first two holes will be the MPI.

If all four holes do not fit into the specified dimension, the MPI may be determined by
three more closely spaced holes, provided that the fourth hole is more than 2.5 times the
radius of the circle containing the holes (Fig. 16, d).

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To determine the MPI from three holes (Fig. 16, c), it is necessary:

• Connect the two nearest holes with a straight line and divide the distance
between them in half;
• Connect the resulting point with the third and divide the distance between
them into three equal parts.

Fig. 16. Identification of the main point of impact:


a, b - four holes.
c - three holes.
d - Identification of the breakaway shot
e - when firing automatic fire

The point of separation closest to the first two holes will be the MPI.

During normal firing of the weapon, the MPI must coincide with the CT or deviate from it
in any direction by no more than the amount specified in Appendix 6.

After checking the single-shot fire of the machine guns, the automatic fire is tested. To
do this, the firing officer fires the number of bursts indicated in the table, expending a
certain number of rounds, carefully aiming at the middle of the lower edge of the test
target (black rectangle) and adjusting the aim of the machine gun after each burst.

The performance of the machine gun is considered normal if the number of holes
indicated in the table fits within the specified circle (dimension) and the MPI deviates
from the CT by no more than the permissible amount.

The MPI for automatic fire is determined as follows:

• Count half of the holes from the top or bottom, separated by a horizontal line;
• In the same way, half of the holes to the right or left, separated by a vertical
line.
The accuracy of the machine gun during automatic firing depends not only on the
condition of the machine gun, but also on the person firing it. Therefore, in doubtful
cases of unsatisfactory accuracy, the firing should be repeated with the involvement of a
more experienced shooter.

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MAP READING & NAVIGATION

Our epic and our ancient song For ever shall remain, Наша дума, наша пісня не вмре, не загине…
And that is where our glory lies, The glory of Ukraine. Ось де, люде, наша слава, Слава України!

Terminology

Scale - the relationship between the model and the real object.

Straight Line Distance - shortest distance between two points. Referred to” as the crow
flies”.
Indirect Line Distance (Curved Line Distance) - the measured distance between two
points usingtracks, paths, roads etc.
The Scale Line - black and white line at bottom of map to illustrate the scale. The first
kilometre isdivided into 100m segments.

The Silva Lightweight Compass

1)Compass - is an essential tool for the navigator:


2)Treat it with respect.
3)Look after it.
4)Trust it.
5)It will lead you to your intended position without fail.
Using the Silva Lightweight Compass to take grid bearings. To take a grid bearing,
ensure the mapis on a flat surface away from Metallic (ferrous) objects such as:

• Heavy Armour / Artillery 50m


• Soft skinned vehicles 20m
• Radios 5m
• Personal weapon and wire fences 3m
• Spectacles and steel watches 1m
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Place the compass with the long side along the line of travel; in this case from the OP to
the Church, then rotate the compass dial so that the orientation lines are parallel with
the Easting’s and pointing towards the top of the map.

Where the line of travel cuts the compass dial is where the bearing can be obtained. In
our example this is 13 on the scale ring = a bearing of 1300mils.

Before Attempting to Use This Bearing, It Must Be Converted from a Grid to a Magnetic
Bearing Using the Grid Magnetic Angle
To march to the target (church), set 1300mils as your bearing by turning the compass dial
to read 13 (1300mils), keep the compass needle between the 2 luminous dots on the base
of the compass housing and follow the direction of travel arrow on the compass. This will
allow you to move cross-country or in restricted visibility on your required bearing.

Magnetic Needle
must lay between
two luminous dots

Direction of travel
arrow points to
target

Finding North. Set your compass to North; rotate the compass body until the compass
needle points to the “N”. Once the compass needle and direction line are aligned the
direction of travel arrow will point to
Magnetic North. To find Grid North
subtract the magnetic variation.

When the compass is rotated left the


compass needle will sit between the two
luminous dots. This indicates the
compass is pointing to Magnetic North.

To take a magnetic bearing:

• Point the direction of travel


arrow at the object.
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• Turn the compass housing until the north arrow is parallel to the orientation
lines andsits between the two luminous dots.

Read off the bearing. To plot a bearing:

• Convert the magnetic


bearing
to a grid bearing.
• Set the grid bearing on the
compass.
• Place the edge of the
compass on your position
on the map.
• Rotate the whole compass
until the orientation lines in
the compass housing are
parallel with the Easting’s
on the map.
• Draw a line along the edge of the compass and extend it to the church.

To plot a back bearing. Having taken a magnetic bearing to a known position it is possible
that you may have to work out the bearing back. This is called a back bearing. If the
bearing that you plot is less than 3200 mils, then add 3200 from the original bearing. Here
is an example:

Bearing from your Location to Church with tower = 1300mils As this is less than 3200,
then add 3200 which gives you = 4500mils.
The bearing from the church to your location is 4500mils. This is called a Back Bearing.
If the original bearing is greater than 3200mils then simply subtract 3200. This will give
you the back bearing. This can now be converted to a grid bearing and plotted on a map.

Where am I on the Map?

Using Features to set a Map, and find Locations

Setting or orientating the map means turning the map until all the symbols on the map
are in the same direction as the ground features they represent from the observer’s
location. A handy mnemonic that you can use to remember how to do this is Dangerous
Dragons Conquer Realms And Protect Sovereignty.

Direction
Using a position in real life, relate it to the map e.g. a
chimney set to the left of a motorway will guide you.
Remember features will be seen if they are not hidden
by trees or landscape. Here a soldier uses three
points. They can see all three on the ground and on
the map.

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Distance
It requires a great deal of skill to accurately estimate
the distance to a object, as you will use this
constantly in the Army you will find that you will
become proficient at it.

Until then we will satisfy ourselves by dividing the


ground into near and far.

Conventional Signs. It is important to learn as many of the conventional signs as


possible as this will allow you to quickly identify the position without wasting time
constantly referring to the legend.

Relief. Landforms are easy to recognise and identify on the map.

Alignment.
Alignment is when objects are located along the same
line

Proximity. To find out how close an object is to another.

Shape. Shape of an object or feature is one of the biggest giveaways. The chimney, for
example, iseasily recognisable because of its shape and size.

Using a Compass to set a Map, and find Locations

To set a map using a compass:


1) Set your compass to north.
2) Hold the map on a flat surface in front of you and place the compass on it with the
orientation lines parallel with the Easting’s.
3) Turn your body until the luminous mark on the compass needle is between the 2
luminous dots.
4) Look up and relate the symbols on the map to the features on the ground, using
DDCRAPS.

Compass body is
aligned, and the
needle is between
two luminous dots

Note the compass body is


aligned to grid north,
however the compass
needle is not between the
two luminous dots

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Note that the Magnetic Variation may be too small to consider when setting the map.
To find your location on a line feature (Linear Intersection):

1) A line intersection is carried out to


confirm a distant location on a linear
feature, e.g. road, track, wood edge
or ridge line.
2) At a known location, take a magnetic
bearing of the unknown location on
the linear feature.
3) Apply the Grid Magnetic Angle
(GMA) and plot the bearing from
the known locationon the map.
4) The unknown location is where the
bearing crosses the linear feature.
5) The best results are obtained when the bearing crosses the linear feature at a right
angle.

Intersection. A distant location can be confirmed by observing and plotting an


intersection using the following steps:

1) Take magnetic bearings of the


unknown location from at least two
known locations.
2) After applying GMA, plot the
bearings from each of the locations.
3) The unknown location is where the
lines cross.
4) A third location and bearing
provides more confidence in the fix
but may give a small triangle.
5) An intersection can be carried out either by a lightweight compass or prismatic
compass and use a RA protractor.

Finding a location by resection (Line Resection):

1) A line resection is used to confirm


the position of an observer on a
liner feature, e.g. a road, track, wood
edge or ridge line.
2) Find a feature that can be
identified both on the map and on
the ground.
3) Take a bearing to the feature on
theground.
4) Apply the GMA and plot the back
bearingfrom the feature on the map.
5) The unknown position is where the
backbearing crosses the linear feature.
6) The best results are obtained when the bearing cuts the linear feature at a right angle.

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Resection:
1) Where the position of the observer cannot be fixed by other methods, it can be
determined accurately by observing and plotting a resection.
2) Find two or more features that can
be identified both on the map and
on the ground; ideally, they should
be at right angles to the
approximate location.
3) Take bearings to features on the
ground.
4) Apply GMA and plot back
bearings from the features on the
map.
5) Where the lines cross on the map is
the accurate position.
6) A third bearing gives more confidence in the location but may give a small triangle. A
resectioncan be carried out either by lightweight compass or prismatic compass and a
RA protractor.

What to do if you are lost

At some point everyone will become navigationally challenged (lost). As a navigator you
will have an idea of where you are by simple navigational reference points. There will
usually be a reference point not too far away, buildings, roads or natural feature such as
hills or rivers. There will be something around you to allow you to orientate yourself, use
all available assistance and equipment to help.

Don’t panic: remember STOP! Note the time. Maintain morale and confidence. Confirm
that you are lost. If confirmed ask yourself the following questions:

• Why do I think we are lost?


• What has changed?
• Look at the ground
• When was I last sure of my location?
• What mistakes might have been made?
• Wrong valley or path?

Scrutinise the map and ground again. If still lost consider one of the following options: -

• Retrace your route to a known feature and relocate yourself.


• Go forward, looking for a major feature, which you can identity on your map
and thenrelocate yourself.

When you have moved to a safe reference point then re-plot your route and check your
navigationas often as required.
Do not charge off or attempt to guess, you will often increase the error in your
navigation and make the situation worse.

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APPENDICES

Appendix 1. Military ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine

Ranks Insignia Common positions

High NCOs
Chief Sergeant Major of the Armed Forces of
First master
Ukraine, Chief Sergeant Major of separate
sergeant
branches of the Armed Forces.

Chief sergeant major of the troops of the


Senior master operational commands, air commands, heads of
sergeant structural subdivisions of the General Staff of
the Armed Forces.

Command sergeant major of military units


(separate battalion, regiment, brigade), heads of
Master sergeant structural subdivisions of military educational
institutions, training centres, heads of training
centres for non-commissioned officers.
Senior NCOs
Command sergeant major of battalions
(divisions) and their equals), heads of structural
subdivisions of training centres of non-
Staff sergeant commissioned officers, heads of structural
departments of headquarters operational
commands, air commands, and naval bases,
staff sergeants 1st class.
Company first sergeant (of batteries and
equivalent), platoon sergeants, platoon
First sergeant commanders, sergeants instructors, heads of
structural subdivisions of the headquarters of
military units, staff sergeants 2nd class.

Platoon sergeants, instructors, staff sergeants


Senior sergeant
3rd class.
Junior NCOs

Sergeant Section (crew, team, etc.) commander.

Junior sergeant Section (crew, team, etc.) 2IC.

Soldiers

Senior soldier Positions with advanced qualification of private.

Soldier Basic positions of private.

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Officer ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine

Junior officers Senior officers High officers

Junior Lieutenant Major Brigadier General

Lieutenant Lieutenant Colonel Major General

Senior Lieutenant Colonel Lieutenant General

Captain General

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Appendix 2. Ceremonial Oaths of the Armed Forces of Ukraine

THE OATH OF A SERVICEMAN OF THE AIRASSAULT FORCES OF THE


ARMED FORCES OF UKRAINE

I am a paratrooper of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

I am a warrior and an integral part of the military collective. I


serve the people of Ukraine and abide by the laws of its Armed Forces.

I always prioritize the successful completion of the combat


mission.

I will never accept defeat.

I will never falter in the face of hardships.

I will never leave a fellow comrade in danger.

I am disciplined, physically and intellectually developed, well-


trained, and knowledgeable in my military specialty. I always keep my
weapon, combat, and other equipment, as well as myself, in a state of
readiness.

I am an expert and a professional in my field.

I am always prepared to defend my Homeland, to strike and


destroy the enemies of Ukraine in battle.

I am a defender of freedom and the people of my country.

I am a paratrooper of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

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Appendix 2 (continue). Ceremonial Oaths of the Armed Forces of Ukraine

THE OATH OF A WINNER

I am a warrior, defender of my people, a proud heir to the glory of


the Trident of St. Volodymyr!

I will shield You, sacred Ukraine, from enemy invasion!

I will not let anyone disgrace the honour and glory of the
Ukrainian state!

I remember the great days of our liberation struggle!

No one and nothing will make me betray you, Ukraine!

I will be strong and unyielding, even in the face of death!

I will never accept defeat!

I will ruthlessly crush the enemies!

I will be the first in the fight for the victory of my State!

I will avenge all those who laid down their lives for Ukraine!

I will devote all my strength and knowledge for the triumph of


Ukraine!

I believe in the future! I will become a winner!

Glory to Ukraine!

(Glory to the Heroes!)

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Appendix 3. Requirements for safety measures during live firing

Safety during life firing is achieved by clear organization of firing, unconditional


observance of safety rules and requirements, high discipline of all servicemen.

At each military shooting range, taking into account the specifics and local conditions,
safety instructions are developed and displayed at the command post and control points.
The personnel of the units conducting the shooting must have a solid understanding of
these safety requirements.

Personnel who have not mastered the safety rules and requirements are not allowed
to carryout life firing and its maintenance.

Each serviceman must unconditionally and accurately comply with all safety rules and
requirements during shooting.

To ensure safety, a cordon is set up before each shooting.

Movement on the range is permitted only on roads and in areas designated by the range
manager.

It is forbidden to enter (drive into) areas where there are shells, mines, bombs,
explosives. These areas are prohibited zones with appropriate warning signs.

It is forbidden to touch shells, mines, bombs, explosives that have not exploded and
items of simulation equipment. Each unexploded projectile, mine, bomb, explosive
charge shall be marked with a warning sign immediately after detection and reported to
the range manager.

In order to control the safety of firing and the actions of the firing combat vehicles
crews, as well as timely warning of the appearance of people, animals and vehicles on the
target fields or in dangerous areas of the terrain, detection of explosions and places of
fall of unexploded shells, observation is organized. Observers are provided with optical
devices (binoculars, stereo tubes) and tablets. The number of observers is determined by
the firing site supervisor to ensure reliable observation, but not less than the number of
combat vehicles from which firing exercises are performed.

The firing stops immediately

Firing shall be immediately stopped by the command of the commander or independently


by each serviceman (crew) who fires in the following cases:

• appearance of people, animals and cars on the target field, low-flying


vehicles,helicopters over the firing area;
• falling of shells (grenades) outside the safe zone or near the dugout where
people are,and loss of communication with the dugout;
• reporting or giving an established signal from the cordon post about the
danger ofcontinuing firing;
• raising the white flag (VSP, lights) at the command post;
• fire on the target field and on the territory of the range;
• loss of orientation by those who shoot;
• non-compliance with the safety angle (not less than 30°) or safe distance (half
the distance to the right (left) side of the distance of the one who shoots
behind to the one who is in front) during the shooting by combat groups;

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• failure to observe the safety angle to the right and left of the firing sector,
determined for each type of weapon by the relevant Manuals and Guidelines
when firing in thegaps and behind the flanks of their units;
• lagging behind neighbouring combat vehicles by more than 100 m.
For immediate cease fire, all combat vehicles (those who shoot) give the signal "Stand
down", as well as a command by radio to the crews that shoot: "Stop! Cease fire" and a
white flag (VSP, lantern) is displayed instead of the red one.

To cease fire, a separate combat vehicles is given a command: "Such-and-such, stop!


Cease fire".

At the command "Stop! Cease fire", those who are shooting stop firing, the combat
vehicles stop. The weapon is discharged and the electric trigger switches are turned off,
the weapon is given the highest angle of elevation.

Weapons are allowed to be loaded only after passing the line of fire. Before each loading
of the gun, make sure that there are no foreign objects in the barrel channel (earth,
sand, unburnedparts of the charge, etc.).
At the ceasefire line, weapons are unloaded, control descents are carried out, electric
triggers are turned off, weapons are given the greatest angle of elevation, after which
the combat vehicles commanders report to the firing chief: "So-and-so. The weapon is
discharged". The combat vehicles return to the initial position only at the command of
the head.

The movement of the combat vehicles before firing, during firing and their return to the
starting position must be carried out in the manner prescribed by the conditions of the
exercise and the range officer. When firing combat vehicles overcome ditches, sinkholes
and other deep obstacles, the highest elevation angle is given to the weapon.

Prohibited

• to give the signal "Stand down" if anyone is in the combat vehicles. Weapons
malfunctions are eliminated after the signal "Stand down" with the permission
of the senior range control officer;
• open hatches and exit the combat vehicle until all combat vehicles return to
their original position before the command "To the vehicles" is given.
During the exercise with a combat hand grenade with a combat vehicles (on foot), the
following safety requirements must be observed:
• grenades and fuses shall be issued to trainees immediately before the
exercise;
• it is prohibited to issue combat grenades to persons who are not trained in
handling grenades;
• loading the grenade (inserting the fuse) is allowed only before throwing it;
• carry combat grenades and fuses only in grenade bags, with the fuse wrapped
in paper or rags;
• it is not allowed to disassemble combat grenades and eliminate malfunctions in
them;
• protect grenades and fuses from strong shocks, impacts, fire, dirt and
humidity.

Strictly prohibited

1) To load weapons with live and blank ammunition, as well as live and inert grenades
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before the signal "Fire" (command of the instructor, commander).

2) Point weapons at people, towards or to the rear of the shooting range, regardless of
whetherit is loaded or not.

3) Open and fire: with faulty weapons, faulty ammunition or ammunition that is not
provided for by the firing tables for this system; beyond the dangerous firing
directions; when the white flag is raised at the command (precinct) point and shelters
(dugouts): on dugouts, regardless of whether there are people in them or not, as well
as on other structures (towers, trigonometric points and decorative equipment);
after the gun is stuck in the ground or an obstacle; while people are on or in front of
the combat vehicles; in case of unlocked hatches of the combat vehicles, as well as
loss of communication with the firing supervisor.

4) To stay and place ammunition, combustible and explosive substances behind RPGs
and SPGs inthe 90 0 sector and closer than 30 m.

5) Rest the breech of the barrel of a grenade launcher, flamethrower against any objects
or the ground; use grenades (containers with shots) that have external damage.

6) Remove the safety cap from the head of the fuse of a combat grenade when firing in
rain and heavy snow.

7) When firing from a trench, the breech of the RPG barrel should be located closer than
2 m, the SPG - 7 m from the rear wall of the trench (when firing from the room - 6 (1) m
to the rear (side) wall and its volume is not less than 45 m3).

8) To shoot from an automatic rifle with a device for silent and flameless firing (FSF)
with conventional ammunition.

When conducting firing, you should additionally be guided by the provisions on safety
requirements set out in the Regulations on the service of ranges of the Land Forces of
the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the Guidelines for overcoming water obstacles by tanks,
IFVs and APCs.

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Appendix 4. Procedure of actions during life firing practice

The range control officer orders the duty shift (detail) of those who shoot to receive
ammunitionat the ammunition supply point.

The trainees, having received the ammunition, inspect it, equip the magazines (belts)
with ammunition, put the magazines (belts), grenades to grenade launchers in bags
(hand grenades in the pockets of body armour, unloading vests or grenade bags) and,
under the direction of the section commander (shift leader), go to the designated place.

The platoon ( section) commander or the range control officer reminds the trainees of the
safety requirements during the exercise and specifies the order of the practice:

firing position

firing point

position for firing

arc of fire

direction of movement

sequence of firing of those who shoot

The range control officer gives the command: "Firing position - m ahead, firing position
(lying, kneeling, standing, from - behind cover), arc of fire (landmark one, landmark two)
or firing direction - ready". To take up a firing position, the grenade launcher is given a
command: "Grenade launcher Petrenko! Firing position - m ahead - ready".

Trainees act in the following sequence

1) During practices that involve firing from the ground (with a change of firing
positions), trainees take up the specified firing positions, prepare for firing, load their
weapons and report: "First (second), ready for combat" and act in accordance with the
received task, observe in the specified firing sector and, in case of detection of
targets, independently open fire from the firing positions provided for by the
conditions of the exercise.

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2) When performing practices that involve advancing, the trainees shall prepare for
firing in the designated position: load the weapon, (if necessary, attach the bayonet
to the rifle, replace the magazine), prepare hand grenades and report: "First (second),
ready for combat". At the command of the range control officer "Attack - forward",
they move at an accelerated pace, short jogs or run, independently identify and hit
targets from the firing positions provided by the conditions of the practices.

3) When firing on the move and from short stops, reloading of weapons is carried out on
the move, without stopping the movement.

Actions after the ceasefire

At the end of the exercise, or at the command of the range control officer, at the " Stop"
(when firing from a fixed position) or "Cease Fire" (when performing the exercise on the
move), those who are firing, stop firing, apply the safety on and report: "First (second),
finished firing".
At the command of the range control officer "Unload", those who shoot unload weapons
and report: "First (second), the weapon is unloaded, the safety is on". The range control
officer at the site, approaching those who shoot, gives the command: "Weapons for
inspection", inspects the weapons, and then gives the command: "Inspected".
After the inspection of the weapons, the range control officer returns the shift (pair,
detail, group) to the starting position and gives the command: "Stand down" and listens
to the report of each trainee on his/her actions during the exercise, on the observation
of the firing results, ammunitionconsumption, malfunctions and delays during the firing.

The form of the report: " Sir, private Petrenko was performing a combat task to destroy
the enemy in the specified direction (sector of fire). During the battle I observed:
machine gun crew, range _____ – hit (missed); RPG, range _____ – hit (missed);
retreating (counterattacking) infantry group _____ – (missed). The ammunition is
completely spent (not completely, there are ammunition left), there were no delays
during the shooting (there were_____)".
After hearing the reports of the trainees, the range control officer conducts a brief
debriefing of the actions of trainees. After the review, the Range Officer orders to return
the unused ammunition to the ammunition supply point or dispenser and proceed to the
next training area.

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Appendix 5. The procedure for performing practices on throwing hand grenades

In the starting position, an instructor informs the personnel of the topic, purpose and
procedure of the practice; checks the knowledge of the trainees of the safety
requirements, rules for handling a combat grenade and the conditions of the practice;
informs the order of the practice, distributes trainees to shifts and appoints shift
leaders. After that, he orders the first person who performs the practice to receive a
hand grenade and go to the starting position, the next shift to prepare for the practice
and take cover, and the rest of the personnel of the unit to start training at the training
places in the rear area.

A trainee, having received a grenade and a fuse for it, inspects them, puts them in the
pocket of the grenade vest (grenade bag) and goes to the starting position, and the next
shift takes places in the shelter in the starting position.

After making sure that there are no people, animals or vehicles in or near the grenade
throwing area, an instructor determines the direction and order of throwing for the
person throwing the grenade.

When performing a training practice in the move

1) An instructor determines the firing position and firing position for the trainee and
gives the command: "Firing position - m ahead, firing position (lying, kneeling,
standing). Ready".
2) A trainee takes the designated firing position, loads the weapon with blank cartridges
(or simulates loading the weapon) and reports: "So-and-so, ready for combat".
3) Then an instructor gives the command: "Prepare a grenade".
4) A trainee unscrews the plug from the grenade body, screws the fuse and reports: "So-
and-so is ready to throw the grenade".
5) An instructor, having made sure that a trainee is ready and that it is safe to throw a
grenade, gives the command: "Attack - forward, grenade - fire".
6) At this command, a trainee independently takes a grenade in his right (left) hand on
the move and presses the trigger lever tightly to the grenade body with his fingers,
continuing to press the trigger lever tightly, squeezes (straightens) the ends of the
safety pin with the other hand and pulls it out of the fuse by the ring with his finger,
and when he reaches the throwing range, he swings and throws the grenade at the
target.
After throwing the grenade, a trainee stops, putting his right (left) leg back, goes
down on his right (left) knee and crouches on the heel, the shin of the left (right) leg
must remain in an upright position, and the right (left) knee must be pressed to the heel
of the left (right) leg, covers unprotected parts of the body (helmet, weapon and gas
mask), after the grenade explosion, completes the attack of the target.

At the command "Stop. Unload", the trainee takes the prone firing position, unloads the
weapon and reports: "Weapon is unloaded, safety is on". After the end of the exercise
and inspection of the weapon, an instructor returns a trainee to the starting position
inspects the target andanalyzes his actions.

When performing a training practice from the spot

1) An instructor gives the command: "Firing position - m ahead, throwing position (lying,
kneeling, standing). Ready".

2) A trainee takes the designated firing position, loads the weapon with blank cartridges
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(or simulates loading the weapon) and reports: "Trainee` s name - is ready ".

3) Next, an instructor gives the command: "Prepare grenade (Prepare cumulative


grenade)".

4) A trainee unscrews the plug from the grenade body, screws the fuse and reports: "
Trainee` s name is ready to throw the grenade".

5) An instructor, having verified the readiness of the trainee and the safety of throwing
the grenade, gives the command: "Throw Grenade (On the tank, cumulative grenade,
fire)".

6) At this command, a trainee independently takes a grenade in his right (left) hand on
the move and presses the trigger lever tightly to the grenade body with his fingers,
continuing to press the trigger lever tightly, squeezes (straightens) the ends of the
safety pin with the other hand and pulls it out of the fuse by the ring with his finger,
and when he reaches the throwing range, he swings and throws the grenade at the
target.

After throwing a grenade, a trainee cover in a trench (behind a shelter; tilts his head,
covering himself with a helmet, while throwing a grenade - lying down), and after the
grenade explosion, he fires (imitates firing) at the target (while throwing a cumulative
grenade - imitates firing from personal weapons at the enemy's combat vehicle crew).
At the command of an instructor "Cease fire. Unload" a trainee takes the position
for firing "standing" from the trench, unloads the weapon and reports: "Weapon is
unloaded, safety is on". After the end of the exercise and inspection of weapons, an
supervisor returns an trainee to the starting position, inspects the target and conducts
an analysis of his actions.

At the command of an instructor, the one who completed the exercise goes to the rear
area, and the next one - to the line of hand grenade throwing.

When performing a training practice to a building

When performing hand grenade throwing practice to a building, the same procedure
shall be followed as when performing a training exercise from a spot, with the following
exceptions:

1) The firing position is determined next to (or 1 - 2 m away from) the door (gap, etc.).
2) Throwing a hand grenade is carried out at doors, gaps or holes in the walls by the
method of"straight arm from the side (bottom) and from yourself".

3) The room shall be cleared immediately after the hand grenade burst.

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Appendix 6. Summary Zeroing Table

Deviation of the Main Point of


Number of Impactwhen moving the front
Range (m) Group size
rounds sight, turning the flywheel

Aiming mark
Permissible (cm)
Exceeding the deviation of Main

bore sighting

automatic fire
Weapon and Point of Impact (MPI)
controlpoint above

single fire

single fire
automatic
scope type zeroing from the reference
the aiming point(cm)
point (cm) vertical horizontal

fire
5,45-mm AK-74 100 – 3 4 – 13 5 15 – 1 turn – 20 1-mm – 26

5,45-mm AKS-
100 – П 4 – 19 5 15 – 1 turn – 20 1-mm – 37
74u

5,45-mm RPK-74 100 – 3 4 8 11 5 15 20 1 turn – 14 1-mm – 18

7,62-mm AKM 100 – 3 4 – 25 5 15 – 1 turn –20 1-mm–26

7,62-mm PK, PKS 100 – 3 4 10 15 5 15 20 1 turn – 12 1 mm – 15

triangle to the right – 16,5


14,5-mm PKVT 100 20 – 10 13,5 – 50 –
apex below – 11,5
PKTs on APCs, triangle to the right – 28,5
100 20 – 10 6 – 20 1 nut split – 10
BRDMs apex below – 19,5
to the right – 41,7 110х130
PKT on BMPs 100 20 6 – 4+10 5 – 1 nut split – 10
below – 24,85 140х160
1-mm – 16
7,62-mm SVD 100 – 3 4 – 16 3 8 – 1 turn – 16
1 split –10

PSO -1 for SVD 100 100 3 4 – 14 3 8 – 1 lug nut split – 5

7,62-mm RPK 100 – 3 4 8 25 5 15 20 1 turn – 14 1-mm – 18

10 21
12,7 NSVT
100 – 4 4 2 18 optical – – – 6 8

9-mm PM 25 – – 4 – 12,5 5 15 – 1-mm – 19 1-mm – 19

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Appendix 7. Form of access to YOUTUBE channels

Follow the links. Join the official channels


and get access to training materials.

Here you will find interesting videos on the history of Ukraine


(UPA, OUN, Cossacks, Flag, Emblem, Anthem, Bandera,
Shukhevych, Mikhnovsky, Atylo, Sirko, Shevchenko)
Hosts: Kapranov brothers - Ukrainian writers, publishers,
publicists, public figures.

"History Without Myths" is a popular channel about the past of


Ukraine and the world without embellishments and falsifications.
The experts of our programs are professional historians (Doctors
and Candidates of Historical Sciences, professors, associate
professors, employees of scientific institutes and historical
museums), each of whom is a specialist in a particular field. The topics of the issues
cover all periods and cover a wide range of issues: political, military, economic history,
history of international relations, history of culture, arts and sports, biographies of
prominent personalities. The purpose of our project is to refute anti-scientific myths,
fakes and stereotypes about Ukraine and Ukrainians, to spread public interest in history,
pride in the glorious past, victories and achievements of the Ukrainian people, to
promote the consolidation of Ukrainian society, to form a positive image of Ukraine and
Ukrainians.

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