Base Defense Security and Control Procedures
Every base must establish and implement security control procedures. These must provide for in-depth
security. They must nullify or reduce the effectiveness of enemy attacks. These include the following:
o Persons entering the base must be subjected to control procedures (identification procedures
must be set and enforced).
o Specified points of entry and exit must be set. All other points must be denied or observed.
o Personnel and crew-served weapons must be provided as backup at each point of entry and
exit and on high-speed avenues of approach.
o An on-order reaction force must be designated and rehearsed. Their communications net must
include communications between the entry and exit points, BDOC, and the reaction force.
o Use of terrain. Proper evaluation and organization of the area is essential. This will reduce the
number of forces required for the defense of the base. Factors that should be considered
include:
- Natural defensive features of the terrain.
- Use of reinforcing obstacles to enhance the natural defense features of the terrain.
- Use of existing roads and waterways as military LOC.
- Control of land areas surrounding the base complex to preclude or inhibit enemy direct fire,
indirect fire, and ground attacks. This can be accomplished through mutual support from
adjacent bases to ensure coverage of all areas.
- Adequate dispersion to reduce the effects of nuclear and chemical weapons.
- Identification and observation of potential enemy landing and drop zones.
o Security. Early warning of enemy intentions and/or actual operations is essential. This will
provide base defense forces time to react. MP patrols, ground surveillance radars, air recon
and surveillance systems can all provide early warning. Include chemical agent detection,
warning devices, and radiological monitoring equipment.
MP and counterintelligence
information from civilian informants and the actions of local personnel near the base may be
indicators of pending enemy actions. Security measures vary with the enemy threat, forces on
hand, and other factors. The base commander must prepare the best defense for his base
using the factors of METT-T.
o Mutual support. The base cluster commander coordinates the support between bases to assist
in the defense of the base cluster. The development of a reaction force within the base cluster
will aid in the mutual security of each base in the cluster.
o Responsiveness. Attacks against a base may range from long-range sniper, mortar, artillery, or
rocket fire to saboteurs or tactical units. The enemy has the advantage of deciding when,
where, and with what force he will attack. The base defense forces should be prepared to meet
the widest possible range of contingencies. The defender prepares base defense plans to
maintain the integrity of the base. The plans are rehearsed, evaluated, and revised to facilitate
the use of
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MP2010
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