provide mobile patrols within a given area of operation (AO) that enforce the main supply route (MSR)
regulations and provide route security. Other support services may also be provided on an area basis.
For example, this might include maintenance or medical support.
Planning
Once the MP commander receives the mission to provide convoy security, an estimate of the situation
is started. He takes into account the factors of METT-T. The following steps must be considered when
planning a convoy operation:
Reconnaissance.
Coordination.
Method of escort.
Tactical actions.
Reconnaissance. Military police should be able to conduct a hasty reconnaissance of the route to be
used by the convoy. At a minimum, a map reconnaissance is necessary. All sources of information
should be consulted, especially the engineers and highway traffic division (HTD). Aircraft should be
used if possible.
Color codes are often used as a form of shorthand to designate the enemy activity along a portion of a
route. Three color codes are used. They correspond to those used for traffic signals.
GREEN--The road is generally free from enemy activity.
Only "routine" precautions are
required.
YELLOW--There is some risk of enemy activity. All personnel should be armed and alert.
Each single vehicle should carry at least two persons.
RED--This road is in a combat zone, Passage requires combat preparations.
Coordination. The MP leader and convoy commander must meet to coordinate their actions. Each
must be aware of his own capabilities and restrictions. They should establish convoy organization and
means of primary and back-up communications. They must determine the times and locations at which
MP support begins and ends. Any anticipated changes in the route must be coordinated. A typical
situation might be one in which different MP units provide area-oriented support.
Escort Methods. The planner decides the best method of security escort to use. Considerations of
terrain, purpose of the escort, size of the unit to be
2-3
MP1031
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