excellent sources are the military police units in whose AO the convoy route is located. Additional
information may be available from the HTH. An excellent source of information is host nation police
and/or other units in the areas, to include civilians. The more information that can be obtained ahead of
time, the better. It will allow for better planning and save time as the reconnaissance is conducted.
The information gathered will also assist in the simultaneous planning of the escort mission since many
of the items are the same for both missions.
The leader should examine the route on the most current map available. Overlays from previous
recons should also be examined. In essence, a map recon is conducted. First, plot the route on the
map. You should then start at the same point each time and examine the map for one category of
information at a time. For example, the first time you might look for all the critical points. Then start
over and look for information about road surfaces. After all the information has been collected, it must
be assembled. The leader should not examine the maps alone, but should have other team members
look at the map as well.
Another step is to gather all the intelligence reports about enemy activity along the route. Knowledge of
the enemy situation allows the leader to anticipate where and what kind of contact might be expected.
It allows him to determine which areas of the route may need closer examination as possible sites of
future problems (for example, ambushes).
Team Selection
A key element is the selection of personnel. Those selected should be familiar with recon methods and
techniques.
When possible, a person conversant with the local language may be helpful.
Consideration should also be given to having a host nation police officer accompany the patrol.
If not already stated in the order, you will determine the number of teams that will be required.
Normally, one to three mobile teams are used. You must consider that the same teams will also be
conducting the escort. A balance must be struck between the reconnaissance requirement and the
need to prepare for the escort. On the other hand, the more the escort personnel know of the route, the
more effective they can be.
There are three elements to a recon patrol. They are control, recon, and security. You may have to
combine the recon and control element, depending on the number of teams and/or personnel available.
For example, in a one team patrol, the team leader provides control, maintains communications, and
records data. The second member concentrates on operating the vehicle. The third member provides
security. In a two-team patrol, the lead team is usually the recon element. The trail team provides the
security. When there are three team(s), each is assigned one of the three functions. Once the team(s)
have been selected, make s-are that they have the proper equipment.
MP1031
2-16
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