This formula describes an all weather route (X) that is 10.5 meters wide. Therefore, it is suitable for
double-flow traffic of both wheeled and tracked vehicles. The military load classification of 120 is the
highest there is. The lowest overhead clearance is 5 meters. It has, however, at least one obstruction.
It is also subject to closing by regular, serious snowfall. This could well describe one of the major roads
through the Alps.
How well did you do? The route classification system, is explained in FM 19-4 and FM 5-36. Now you
may understand why this is a most helpful tool when conducting a route recon and was included in the
equipment list.
Figure 2-3, is an illustration and explanation of the more commonly used
reconnaissance symbols.
Gather/Record Tactical Intelligence Data
While you are gathering the information to determine the route and road classification, you must also
gather other categories of information. A major category of information that must be obtained is
information of a tactical intelligence nature. Certain items of information are of critical importance to
you and the convoy commander. Most of them were previously noted. You must remain alert to and
record any other items of information as well. Anything that poses a threat to the convoy must be
noted. Put yourself in the enemy's position. If you wanted to interfere with or stop the convoy, what
would you do?
Whenever you observe something out of the ordinary, it should be reported. Although the item may not
seem important to you, when placed with bits of information gathered elsewhere, it may be significant.
Intelligence is very much like putting together a picture puzzle. That piece of seemingly *insignificant
information may be the piece that completes the picture.
Enemy influence along a route may vary from none, to nuisance, to stubborn defensive resistance. A
route, regardless of its location, is always vulnerable to interdiction by enemy air, missile, and/or
artillery attack. Likely target areas include bridges, road junctions, and defiles.
Enemy Activity. Any enemy activity that you see should be reported. In many cases, it will require an
intelligence spot report. The information to be gathered is the same as that which you gather for an MP
report--Who, What, Where, When, and How. The most important thing is to remember that yours is not
a combat patrol. Unless otherwise specifically instructed, a route recon should avoid contact and
engage the enemy only when necessary to defend itself.
Ambush Sites. You must always look for places that present the enemy the opportunity to ambush
vehicles. You should particularly note areas close to the road which provide cover and concealment.
Such an area located where vehicles must naturally slow down, such as a hill, curve, or urban area are
particularly well suited as ambush sites. The ideal spot would be one that combined an area of cover
and concealment for the attacker with an area where
MP1031
2-22
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