• Objective:

 To conduct a successful LRM through mountainous terrain, ensuring

mission success while minimizing risks and maximizing operational effectiveness.

• Conduct a Detailed Recon: Use aerial imagery and ground reconnaissance to
• identify key terrain features, such as ridgelines, valleys, and potential choke points.
• Assess Tactical Value: Evaluate how terrain features can be used to your

advantage or pose a threat. Note any observation posts, high ground troops , or cover

that may influence your movement.

• Select an Optimal Route: Choose routes that balance speed, cover, and

concealment. Avoid overly steep grades and areas prone to landslides or rockfalls.

• Movement Techniques: Implement to minimize noise and maintain a low profile.
• Water and Sustenance: Prioritize water and high-energy food rations. Regularly

monitor hydration levels and distribute rations efficiently.

5. Safety Measures:**

   - **Establish Perimeter Security:** Implement 360-degree security, especially during

halts. Use terrain to your advantage for natural concealment.

   - **Monitor Weather Conditions:** Be prepared for rapid weather changes. Adjust your

movement pace and take appropriate shelter if necessary.

**6. Communication:**

   - **Maintain Radio Silence:** Use encrypted communication to relay essential updates

while maintaining operational security.

   - **Utilize Hand Signals:** Ensure all personnel are familiar with and practice hand

signals for non-verbal communication in the field.

**7. Leadership and Coordination:**

   - **Implement Effective Command and Control:** Clearly define roles and

responsibilities. Ensure all team members understand the operational plan and their

specific tasks.

   - **Conduct Regular Briefings:** Keep the team informed about changes in mission

objectives, route alterations, or environmental hazards.

**8. Post-Movement Actions:**

   - **Conduct After Action Review (AAR):** Analyze the mission to identify strengths,

weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

   - **Debrief and Report:** Compile a comprehensive report on the movement, including

any incidents or noteworthy observations.

**End of POI**

---

This POI covers the critical aspects of LRM through mountainous terrain using military

terminology and procedures.

---

**Point of Instruction (POI): Long Range Movement (LRM) Through Mountainous

Terrain**

**Objective:** To execute a Long Range Movement (LRM) through mountainous terrain

with an emphasis on operational effectiveness, risk management, and mission success.

---

**1. Terrain Analysis:**

   - **Reconnaissance:**

     - **Aerial and Ground Recon:** Utilize available aerial imagery, satellite maps, and

on-ground reconnaissance to gain a comprehensive understanding of the terrain.

Identify key terrain features such as ridgelines, valleys, and potential choke points.

     - **Topographic Mapping:** Use topographic maps to identify elevation changes,

water sources, and potential hazards. Mark significant terrain features and elevation

changes to assist in route planning.

   - **Tactical Evaluation:**

     - **Observation Points:** Identify natural and artificial observation points that could

be used by enemy forces. Note high ground and vantage points.

     - **Cover and Concealment:** Evaluate areas that provide natural cover (e.g., dense

forests, rocky outcrops) and concealment. Use these to minimize exposure during

movement.

**2. Route Planning:**

   - **Primary Route Selection:**

     - **Balance Factors:** Choose a route that optimizes the balance between speed,

cover, and concealment. Consider the load-bearing capacity of the route and the

physical endurance required.

     - **Elevation Considerations:** Opt for routes with manageable elevation changes to

prevent exhaustion and ensure tactical advantage. Avoid routes with excessive

steepness or loose terrain prone to rockfall.

   - **Alternate Routes:**

     - **Plan Alternatives:** Identify and map secondary and tertiary routes in case the

primary route becomes inaccessible. Ensure these routes are also evaluated for tactical

effectiveness and safety.

     - **Route Rehearsal:** Conduct rehearsal exercises on alternate routes to ensure

readiness for unexpected changes.

**3. Movement Techniques:**

   - **Stealth and Speed:**

     - **Slope Movement:** When traversing slopes, move diagonally to reduce the risk of

slipping and to conserve energy. Maintain a low profile and minimize noise.

     - **Bound Movement:** Implement bound movement where one element provides

overwatch while the other advances. This ensures continuous coverage and reduces

the risk of ambush.

   - **Leapfrogging:**

     - **Technique Application:** Use the leapfrogging method to maintain security and

flexibility. One element moves forward while the other holds position, covering the

advance and allowing for quick reaction to enemy contact.

**4. Load Management:**

   - **Equipment Optimization:**

     - **Minimal Load:** Equip personnel with only essential gear. Use modular load-

bearing equipment to allow for quick adjustments based on mission needs.

     - **Load Distribution:** Distribute equipment and supplies evenly among team

members to balance load and enhance mobility.

   - **Sustenance:**

     - **Water Procurement:** Identify and secure water sources along the route.

Implement water purification procedures if needed.

     - **Rationing:** Carry high-energy food rations that are lightweight and easy to

prepare. Plan ration distribution to prevent shortages and ensure sustained energy

levels.

**5. Safety Measures:**

   - **Perimeter Security:**

     - **360-Degree Security:** Establish a perimeter with continuous observation to

detect potential threats. Use terrain features to enhance natural security and

concealment.

     - **Halts and Rest Periods:** During halts, maintain security with designated

positions for overwatch and ensure all team members are alert.

   - **Weather Monitoring:**

     - **Weather Preparation:** Be prepared for sudden weather changes such as rain,

snow, or extreme temperatures. Adjust movement pace and shelter as necessary.

     - **Protective Gear:** Ensure personnel are equipped with weather-appropriate gear

such as rain jackets, thermal clothing, and waterproof bags.

**6. Communication:**

   - **Radio Procedures:**

     - **Maintain Radio Silence:** Use secure, encrypted communication channels to

transmit critical information while maintaining operational security. Avoid unnecessary

radio traffic to prevent detection.

     - **Communication Protocols:** Establish clear communication protocols, including

frequency changes and emergency signals.

   - **Hand Signals:**

     - **Non-Verbal Communication:** Ensure all personnel are proficient in hand signals

and non-verbal cues for silent communication. Conduct regular practice to ensure

understanding and effectiveness.

**7. Leadership and Coordination:**

   - **Command and Control:**

     - **Role Definition:** Clearly define roles and responsibilities for each team member.

Ensure understanding of individual tasks and overall mission objectives.

     - **Leadership Engagement:** Leaders should actively engage with their teams,

providing guidance and making real-time decisions based on evolving conditions.

   - **Briefings and Updates:**

     - **Regular Briefings:** Conduct pre-movement briefings to ensure everyone

understands the mission plan, route, and contingencies. Provide updates on any

changes in conditions or objectives during the movement.

     - **Post-Movement Review:** After completing the movement, hold debriefings to

discuss successes, challenges, and lessons learned. Use feedback to improve future

operations.

**8. Post-Movement Actions:**

   - **After Action Review (AAR):**

     - **Evaluation:** Conduct a thorough AAR to evaluate the mission's effectiveness,

including an assessment of planning, execution, and outcome.

     - **Lessons Learned:** Document and analyze lessons learned to refine tactics,

techniques, and procedures for future LRM operations.

   - **Reporting:**

     - **Comprehensive Report:** Compile a detailed report on the movement, including

observations, encounters, and any issues encountered. Share findings with relevant stakeholders to enhance operational knowledge and readiness