United States Army Field Manual 7-93 Long-Range Surveillance Unit Operations/Chapter 1

by United States Department of Defense

CHAPTER 1 - INTRODUCTION

Combat forces need accurate and timely intelligence about enemy forces, terrain, and weather. Commanders must make fast and accurate decisions to have the right combat force at the right place and time. Their decisions are partly based on information gathered for intelligence purposes. Long-range surveillance units are trained and equipped to gather this information.

Section I. OBJECTIVE

Human intelligence is a category of intelligence derived from information collected and provided by human sources (JCS Pub 1-02). Human intelligence has always been a primary source of information within the intelligence collection system. Frontline soldiers and reconnaissance patrols have always provided combat information to tactical commanders. Commanders at all levels need this type of information. The long-range surveillance teams are a primary source of human intelligence.

1-1. INFORMATION GATHERING

Information is collected from every source and disseminated immediately as combat information, or it is first processed into intelligence. Collection of information is one phase of the intelligence cycle. The cycle consists of direction, collection, processing, and dissemination. These phases may be conducted both sequentially and concurrently. While information is being processed, additional information is being collected. At the same time, the intelligence staffs plan and direct the collection effort to meet new requirements. Data gained from the intelligence cycle, coupled with existing data, enable intelligence staffs to predict battlefield events and enemy intentions. By comparing time with actual events, the G2 can provide the commander timely, complete, and accurate intelligence.

1-2. HUMAN INTELLIGENCE CAPABILITIES

Long-range surveillance units provide the corps with a dedicated company and the division with a dedicated detachment. These units are specially trained and equipped to collect human intelligence about forces deep in the enemy's rear. LRS units are part of the overall intelligence collection process. They augment and complement other collection systems that are more vulnerable to limitations such as weather, range, terrain masking, and enemy countermeasures. LRS units also allow corps and division commanders to gather timely information that does not need lengthy processing and analysis.

a. The employment ranges for the LRSU missions depend on METT-T, operational tempo, and support considerations. In a fast-paced battlefield environment, the depth of LRSU employment is greater because the area of interest is larger. Long-range surveillance detachment teams operate forward of battalion reconnaissance teams and cavalry scouts in the division area of interest. The long-range surveillance company teams operate forward of the LRSD teams and behind most special operations forces. (See Table 1-1.) The duration of an LRS mission depends on equipment and supplies the team must carry, movement distance to the objective area, and resupply availability. LRSU teams normally operate up to seven days without resupply depending on terrain and weather. Teams may be deployed longer in special cases. Operations other than war are likely to be nonlinear, with no identifiable forward line of own troops. Surveillance must extend in all directions. Deployment considerations are adjusted with the political and geographical effects included. The specific area of operations changes as additional maneuver units are sent into the area of operations.

b. LRS teams are organized, trained, and equipped to enter enemy areas to observe and report enemy dispositions, movements and activities, and battlefield conditions. The teams' missions, targets, and objectives are based on the intelligence requirements of the commander. Teams infiltrate selected areas by air, ground, water, or stay-behind. While avoiding contact with the enemy and local civilians, these teams observe. They may emplace a variety of unattended sensors and special-purpose equipment to detect, observe, and monitor enemy activities. They perform other specified collection tasks as well. LRS teams are not intended, and lack the capability, to conduct direct-action missions. Their mission of limited reconnaissance and stationary surveillance is different from the missions of most special forces and rangers.

c. Teams operating in the corps or division area of interest use highly developed infantry and ranger skills to infiltrate enemy-controlled areas, evade enemy rear-security operations, then exfiltrate with or without assistance. These infantry and ranger skills are needed for survival and to complete the mission. Teams also have expert information-collection skills, and they know enemy organizations, tactics, and equipment. They are also experts in using communication systems. These skills are attained through individual, institutional, and unit (collective) training programs. (See Appendix A for information on personnel recruitment and selection.)

1-3. ARMY OPERATIONS DOCTRINE

The most pressing concern of a corps or division commander engaged in combat is knowledge of the enemy to his front or to his flanks, and how that enemy may affect his mission. The commander must surprise the enemy and catch him at a disadvantage as often as possible. To do so, the commander must see well forward and know the areas of operation and interest. He must also know the enemy's capabilities, strengths, location of reinforcements, density of air defense, and activities. This information is obtained through intelligence activities that provide the basis for tactical and operational decisions. Conduct of Army operations is based on timely intelligence from organic and higher sources at corps. Real-time human intelligence information is needed to complement electronic and imagery intelligence systems. The LRSUs at corps and division play an active part in the Army operations by providing that information. FM 100-5 states that success on the battlefield depends on all commanders knowing and implementing the five basic tenets of Army operations doctrine: initiative, agility, depth, synchronization, and versatility.

a. Initiative. Initiative sets or changes the terms of battle by action. It implies an offensive spirit in all actions. It means departing from planned actions when an opportunity presents itself to hasten mission accomplishment. The LRSUs provide the corps and division commanders near real-time information on the enemy. This information does not need lengthy processing and analysis, thus enabling commanders to take the initiative when the opportunity presents itself.

b. Agility. Agility involves thinking and acting faster than the enemy. It involves the mental, command and control, and organizational ability to evaluate METT-T factors and then shift rapidly to destroy the enemy. The LRSUs provide commanders timely information that enables them to act swiftly and take advantage of the enemy situation. Because of the communication systems that LRSUs use, and mobility restrictions, LRS teams are not responsive to changes in the mission once deployed.

c. Depth. Depth is measured in time, distance, and resources. The commander uses available time and the depth of the battlefield to employ his forces to defeat the enemy. Depth is the greatest contribution of the LRSUs in Army operations. The units give corps and division commanders the ability to see deep into the enemy's rear.

d. Synchronization. Synchronization is teamwork and coordination of effort. The commander must know how the combined-arms team is used to defeat the enemy. Synchronization is a unity of effort following the commander's intent. This unity extends from the maneuver plan to the integration of CS and CSS assets to ensure mission accomplishment. Information provided by the LRSUs and integrated with other forms of information-gathering assets give the commander a coordinated effort and better understanding of the battlefield.

e. Versatility. Versatility is the ability of units to meet diverse mission requirements. Commanders must shift focus, tailor forces, and move from one role or mission to another rapidly and efficiently.

Section II. MISSION

Surveillance is the primary mission of LRS operations. It is the mission that LRS teams are best equipped and trained to perform. Teams maintain surveillance for a specified period or until the required information is collected. Each team records all pertinent data.

1-4. CHARACTERISTICS

LRS teams are not special operations forces, but their doctrine, tactics, equipment, and techniques are similar. LRS team operations are characterized by the following.

a. Clandestine operations require OPSEC procedures before, during, and after mission employment.

b. Team members depend on stealth, cover and concealment, and infantry and ranger skills.

c. Team members avoid contact with enemy forces and local population.

d. Teams are employed to obtain timely information.

e. Teams have restricted mobility in the area of operations.

f. Team members depend on communications, knowing the enemy's order of battle, and equipment identification skills.

g. The surveillance or reconnaissance area is small, has a specified route, or is a specific location or installation.

h. Team equipment and supplies are limited to what can be man packed or cached.

i. Teams require detailed intelligence preparation of the battlefield (IPB) from the G2 for employment.

1-5. MISSION EXECUTION

Long-range surveillance operations are carried out by small, highly trained teams who infiltrate and exfiltrate contested areas by air (helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft), parachute, ground (vehicle or foot), water, or a combination of these methods.

a. During retrograde operations or withdrawal of covering forces in defensive operations, teams may be employed in a stay-behind mode. Once inserted, the teams in a stay-behind role set up a hide site that provides security, cover, and concealment. A surveillance site is then setup, normally during darkness or other limited visibility. The surveillance site is located where it can provide the most coverage of the specific point, route, or area to be observed. Contact is made between the surveillance site and the hide site primarily during limited visibility. In some situations, the hide and surveillance sites are combined. However, the surveillance site frequently obtains information that must be reported immediately. In such cases, a team member goes to the hide site to report the information or uses a tactical FM radio or landline. The long-range surveillance team should use the most secure means of communication available between the hide site and the surveillance site.

b. Combat information reported by the surveillance site is normally consolidated at the hide site. This information is sent to the LRSU operations section by secure, rapid HF or SATCOM devices. A data-burst transmission device enhances communication security and reduces transmission time. Messages are sent at predetermined times or as immediate spot reports. To reduce the possibility of detection, teams use separate communication sites, directional antennas, and terrain masking techniques. Some areas may be monitored by sensor devices emplaced by the teams. These devices normally transmit their signals to a receiving station in the corps or division area.

Section III. ORGANIZATION

A long-range surveillance unit may be a company or a detachment. This section discusses their organization, capabilities, and limitations.

1-6. LONG-RANGE SURVEILLANCE COMPANY

The LRSC is organized as a company organic to the military intelligence brigade at corps (Figure 1-1). It consists of a headquarters platoon, communications platoon, and three LRS platoons--each consisting of six surveillance teams. The leaders are airborne and ranger qualified. All other personnel in the company are airborne qualified.

a. Headquarters Platoon. The headquarters platoon contains two sections for the command and control of the company in the areas of administration, logistics, and operations.

(1) Headquarters section. This section contains the personnel necessary for the command and control of the company and supply support.

(2) Operations section. The personnel in this section plan and control the employment of the teams, coordinate insertion and extraction of the teams to include external support, receive and report information from committed teams, and maintain the operational status of all teams. Liaison duties and planning for future operations are important functions of the operations section.

b. Communications Platoon. The communications platoon operates the base radio stations. It helps the operations section plan and maintain communication with deployed teams. It works with the operations section or separately to relay information from deployed teams. It also performs unit maintenance on communication equipment organic to the unit. The platoon has a headquarters section and four base radio stations.

(1) Headquarters section. The personnel in this section establish command and control over assigned communications elements. They coordinate and set up communication procedures, transmission schedules, frequency allocation, and communication sites. They issue and control encryption code devices and materials. They ensure continuous communication between deployed teams and base radio stations. They provide communication support to detached LRS platoons. They augment division LRSDs with communication support when directed. They also provide unit maintenance for company communication equipment.

(2) Base radio stations. The four base radio stations maintain communication between the operations base and the deployed teams. They operate on a 24-hour basis to make sure all message traffic to and from teams is processed immediately.

c. Long-Range Surveillance Platoon. This platoon has a headquarters section and six surveillance teams.

(1) Headquarters section. This section contains the personnel necessary for command, control, and training of the platoon.

(2) Surveillance teams. Each team consists of a team leader, an assistant team leader, three observers, and a RATELO. The teams obtain and report information about enemy forces within the corps' area of interest. The teams can operate independently with little or no external support in all environments. They are lightly armed with limited self-defense capabilities. To be easily transportable, they are equipped with lightweight, man-portable equipment. They are limited by the amount of weight that they can carry or cache. Because all team members are airborne qualified, all means of insertion are available to the commander when planning operations.

1-7. LONG-RANGE SURVEILLANCE DETACHMENT

The LRSD is organized as a detachment organic to the military intelligence battalion at division level (Figure 1-2). The LRSDs are organized into a headquarters section, communications section (two base radio stations), and six surveillance teams. (Light division LRS detachments only have four surveillance teams.) The leaders are airborne and ranger qualified. All other personnel in the detachment are airborne qualified.

a. Headquarters Section. This section contains the personnel necessary for command and control of the detachment.

b. Communications Section. These personnel ensure expeditious processing of all message traffic. The two base stations maintain communication with deployed teams. The LRSD may be augmented with a base station from the corps LRSC if dictated by operational requirements, equipment shortages, or maintenance problems.

c. Surveillance Teams. Each team consists of a team leader, an assistant team leader, three observers, and a RATELO. The teams obtain and report information about enemy forces within their assigned areas. They can operate independently with little or no external support in all environments. They are lightly armed with limited self-defense capabilities. To be easily transportable, they are equipped with lightweight, man-portable equipment. The teams are limited by the amount of weight that they can carry or cache. Because all team members are airborne qualified, all means of insertion are available to the commander when planning operations.

1-8. CAPABILITIES

The organization, strength, and equipment of teams are based on the mission and the environment of the operational area. Long-range surveillance units have the capability--

• To be committed in specific locations within enemy-held territory by stay-behind methods or delivery by land, water, or air, to include parachute. Units exfiltrate by land, water, or air.
• To operate in enemy-held territory for up to seven days with minimal external direction and support.
• To conduct surveillance, reconnaissance, target acquisition, and damage assessment missions in all types of terrain and environments.
• To establish communication using HF, VHF, UHF, or SATCOM between the base stations or the controlling headquarters and surveillance teams directly or through airborne relay.
• To conduct operations in bad weather and over difficult terrain.
• To be recovered by air, land, or water; to linkup with advancing forces; or to return using evasion techniques.
• To operate using planned, automatic resupply drops or special equipment cache sites set up by the LRSU or other friendly forces. They also use captured supplies and equipment.

1-9. LIMITATIONS

Long-range surveillance units are limited by the following considerations.

a. Mobility is restricted to foot movement in the area of operations.

b. Teams cannot maintain continuous communication with the controlling headquarters because of equipment limitations and the enemy's use of radio and electronic surveillance devices. Teams only establish communication at scheduled times or to report critical combat information.

c. Organic medical capability is limited to individual first aid.

d. Teams are lightly armed and have limited self-defense capabilities. They fight only to break contact.

e. LRSUs require support from higher headquarters in--

• Maintenance, supply, mess, medical, administration, finance, personnel, and chaplain services.
• Area communication integration and access to a common-user telephone system.
• Frequency management for HF and SATCOM access.
• Packing, rigging, and loading supplies and equipment for aerial resupply operations and parachute insertion operations.
• Army or Air Force air transportation to move the LRSU to the area of operations and ground transportation (provided by the division support command or corps support command) to move personnel and organic equipment in the area of operations.
• Intelligence (IPB) products from division or corps headquarters.

1-10. WEAPONS AND EQUIPMENT

LRS teams operate with little or no support once in the area of operations. Operations in the enemy rear area requires the teams to have modern, lightweight weapons and equipment to complete the mission.

a. Weapons. The LRSC and LRSD are lightly armed but have a variety of organic small-arms weapons. Based on specific mission requirements, the unit is task-organized to meet the needs of the teams. The teams try to avoid contact.

b. Equipment. The special equipment they need is as follows.

(1) Communication. Each LRS team has an HF radio with burst device for two-way communication with the base stations. Each team has emergency-distress radios (AN/PRC-90 or AN/PRC-112) if evasion becomes the means of exfiltration.

(2) Observation. LRS teams maintain observation of the objective at all times, in all kinds of weather. The LRS team has high-power day optics to aid in identifying enemy vehicles out to 5,000 meters. During limited visibility, the team identifies enemy vehicles out to 5,000 meters with both low-light amplification and infrared equipment.

(3) Personal clothing and equipment. LRS teams can operate in any environment when equipped with mission-specific items of clothing and equipment (for example, skis, winter clothing, and snow shoes for arctic areas.)