JAMES Field Craft Manual

© Field Craft Manual Version 1 2006 1

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Field Craft Manual Version 1 created in 2006

This Document is copyrighted for the use of

The Air Training Corps.

The rights to this document lie with the

creator Jamie Gumery


Field Craft

CONTENTS

Section Field Area

1 Camouflage and Concealment.

2 Patrolling.

3 Patrol Formations

4 Hand Signals

5 Sentries and their duties.

6 Field Craft Kit and Routine

7 Section Assaults.

8 Ambushes.

9 Retreats

10 Shelter Building and the harbour area

11 Recons.

12 Target Indication.

13 Survival Techniques.

14 FIBUA (Fighting In Built Up Areas).

15 Military Searches

16 Quick Battle Orders (QBO’s).

17 Radio Operations

18 Phonetic Alphabet


1. Camouflage and Concealment. 1.1 Introduction to Camouflage – Natural / Artificial.

1.2 7S + M system.

1.3 Applying Camouflage Cream. 1.4 Concealment.

1.1 Introduction to Camouflage – Natural / Artificial.

When considering camouflage you must know the two types of camouflage.

These are: NATURAL and ARTIFICIAL.

Natural Camouflage is: Any form of camouflage, which is living. Examples of this are things such as: Foliage – Plants and trees.

Artificial Camouflage is: Forms of camouflage, which has been created. Examples of this are things

such as: Camouflage cream or camouflage material (DPM)

1.2 7S + M system.

When camouflaging your body and during patrol movements you should take into account the 7 S

and the additional M system.

This is:

S hine – shiny objects – Boots, watches, jewellery (Hidden)

S ight / Signs – Cooking areas, Rubbish, Tracks.

S mell – Cooking, Smoking, Washing, Deodorants.

S hadow – Position of the sun.

S ilhouette – your body outline (Keep Low)

S hape – Blend in with your surroundings (Don’t show your body shape)

S ound – General noise, twigs and branches breaking. (Keep Quiet)

M ovement – Ghost / kitten (Light footed, check what you stand on)

1.3 Applying Camouflage Cream. When camouflaging your face you should use the 3-part system.

1. Base Coat

To dull the skin colour. Apply cream to hands then work in the cream over the face to make it

darker.

2. Break up the Shape

To help you blend in. use stripe and/or patches to break up the shape of the face.


3. Finishing off.

To aid in the concealment of the body. Add foliage natural and/or artificial to help you blend in

with the surroundings.

1.4 Concealment.

When concealing your body pay close attention to breaking up the shape of the knees, the elbows, the shoulder blades and if possible the mid – section.

Knees – to break up the shape of your knees use elastic bands to attach low foliage such as long

grass to the behind and above the knee cap.

Elbows – to break up the shape of your elbows use elastic bands to attach higher foliage such as vines the behind and above the elbow.

Shoulder blades – to break up the shape of the shoulder blade use your epaulette and put foliage such as vines or grass in to them (NCOs must make sure rank slides are visible)


2. Patrolling.

2.1 Introduction to Patrolling.

2.2 Layouts of Patrols (4 man).


2.4 Definitions of Patrol Members.

2.5 Types of Movement.

2.1 Introduction to Patrolling.

A patrol is used a lot during missions. It is used to move a squad from 1 position to another.

A patrol has no set number however normally will have at least 4 people. Normally there will be around 8 people to a patrol.

In the day, spacing for a patrol should be around 10 metres.

In the night, spacing for a patrol should be around 5 metres.

When patrolling you should remember SO AS:

• S pacing

• O bservation

• A ggression

• S ignals


In a 4-man patrol there will be: a commander (NCO) a radioman, a point man (Front) and a tail end

Charlie (Rear)

The layout is represented below in the diagram.



In a 8 man patrol there will be: a commander (NCO) a radio man, a point man (Front) and a tail end

Charlie (Rear) and 4 extra gun men 1 will be the second in commander (2 IC) and 1 will be a

runner. In this patrol these personnel will be placed into two squads (See Ambushes And Attacks)

The Layout is represented below in the diagram.

2.4 Definitions of Patrol Members.

Tail End Charlie – the rear man (watches the rear ark, turns around every 5 to 10 paces)

Runner – a fast member of the patrol (used to relay messages throughout the patrol)

Radio Man – the member of the patrol who relays radio messages.

Commander – the person in charge (Normally an NCO or senior cadet)

2 IC – the person in charge if the commander is killed (Normally an NCO or senior cadet)

Point man – the front man (gives signals to the patrol, watches the front ark)

Gunman – a person who aids the patrol during attacks

2.5 Types Of Movement.

Leopard Crawl: You lie on your front and move along on your stomach. Be careful, this can make lots of noise, so is best to clear any objects in front of you before you begin to move, as shown below.

Monkey Run: Bend your back right over so that you could drag your knuckles on the floor behind

you. Then run, fast and low. This is a good all rounder for concealment.


3. Patrol Formations.

3.1 How and who can give patrol orders. 3.2 Line formation.

3.3 Single File formation.

3.4 Double File formation. 3.5 Half Tack formation.

3.6 Arrowhead formation.

3.7 Diamond formation.

3.1 How and who can give patrol orders.

Normally in a patrol the change of formation order is given by a hand signal resembling the

intended formation.

The point man or IC (Commander) gives the order, however other members can give an order

during a patrol if necessary.

3.2 Line Patrol.

The layout of a line formation is horizontally along the direction they wish to travel as shown in the

diagram below.

The command for this will be:

A full spread of the arms in a horizontal motion resembling a straight line

The advantage for this type of patrol is that there is a good firepower to the Front and Rear of the

patrol.

The disadvantage for this type of patrol is that there is a lack of firepower to the Left and Right

Flanks of the patrol.


3.3 Single File.

The layout of a single file formation is vertically along the direction they wish to travel as shown in

the diagram below on the left.


The left arm being raised to its fullest extent vertically, with a fist

The advantage for this type of patrol is that there is a good firepower to the

Left and Right Flanks of the patrol

The disadvantage for this type of patrol is that there is a lack of firepower to the

Front and Rear of the patrol


3.4 Double File Formation.

The layout of a Double file formation is vertically along the direction they wish to travel as shown

in the diagram below on the left.


Both Arms will be raised to the fullest extent vertically, with a fist

The advantage for this type of patrol is that there is a good firepower to

the Left and Right Flanks of the patrol

The disadvantage for this type of patrol is that there is a lack of firepower to the Front and Rear of the patrol


3.5 Half Tack Formation.

With this formation there are many commands for different forms of this formation.

The basis behind this formation is half the patrol goes into a line formation facing the direction

of travel, and the other half of the patrol goes into a single file formation also facing the

direction of travel.

A Half tack to the front and left is shown in the diagram below.


Left Arm will be raised to the fullest extent vertically, with a fist and the right arm will be

extended to its fullest extent horizontally with a fist.

The advantage for this type of patrol is that the firepower is spilt across all flanks 50% on each side.

There is no major disadvantage for this type of patrol.


3.6 Arrowhead Formation.

This formation in retreats can also be know as a FIREBASE

The layout of an arrowhead formation is shown in the diagram below.

Direction of Travel


The body using the two arms extended horizontally will form an arrowhead like form.

The advantage for this type of patrol is that there is all round firepower.

There is no major disadvantage for this type of patrol however does leave the rear less supported.


3.7 Diamond Formation.

This formation can also be known as a box formation.

The layout of a diamond formation is a square with its sides at a slant as shown in the diagram

below.

Direction of Travel


A triangle will be formed above the head using the two hands and the head for sides.

The advantage for this type of patrol is that there is all round firepower.

There is no major disadvantage for this type of patrol.


4. Hand Signals

4.1 Why use Hand Signals. 4.2 Who uses the hand signals in the patrol?

4.3 List of hand signals.

4.4 Hand signals for the members of the patrol.

4.1 Why use hand signals.

Hand signals are used when on a patrol to keep with the rules of battle discipline. The rule of

silence. When patrolling in enemy territory the patrol must be quiet so not to attract attention. Hand signals provide a silent way of giving many commands, some of which refer to enemy movements.

4.2 Who uses the hand signals in the patrol?

In the patrol the personnel who use the hand signals the most are the POINT MAN, the

COMMANDER, the 2 IC, and the RADIO MAN. However any member in the patrol may be needed to relay messages or even create a message if an

enemy movement is spotted.

4.3 List of hand signals.

Halt – all members stop and go to one knee

Raise Left hand with a clenched fist.

On me – The person/s called must go and see this person as their assistance is needed.

Tap Head twice!

Get down – All members lie down as low as possible, also try n find cover if near to any.

Left arm vertical. Bring down sharply then you get down.

Double time – speed up or get here quickly.

Left arm with a clenched fist moved up and down in a fast motion.

Enemy – Enemy spotted.

Left arm with a clenched fist with the thumb facing downwards.


Friendly – Friendly forces spotted.

Left arm with a clenched fist with the thumb facing upwards.

Go back – Retrace where you stepped. (Normally used in danger situations such as minefields)

Left arm raised and make a large circular motion in the air

All round defence – create an all round defence on this member (Mostly used by the I.C or 2 I.C)

Left arm with a flat hand circled above the head a few times.

Move Up / Advance – move forward.

Move the left arm in a sweeping motion as you get up.

(This message is relayed!)

4.4 Hand signals for the members of the patrol.

When in a patrol situation you may need to contact another member such as the runner or

commander.

Below are all the signals you need to know to call a certain member of the group to you.

I.C – hand on top of shoulder.

- Officially this means an officer however we use it for the highest rank who will be the I.C

2 I.C – hand on the upper part of the arm.

- Officially this means a adult warrant officer however we use it for 2 IC

Corporal, Sergeant, Flight Sergeant. – 2,3,4 fingers on the upper arm.

Cadet warrant officer – fist placed on the wrist arm.

Cadet – single finger placed on the lower arm.

Runner – hand moved up and down on the right side of the chest.

Radioman – a pretend radio made by the hand is placed next to head.


5 Sentries and their duties.

5.1 What is a sentry? 5.2 What are their duties?

5.3 Password recognition technique.

5.4 How to take out a sentry.

5.1 What is a sentry?

A sentry is basically a night watchman. The sentry is the first line of defence for a camp.

However a sentry could also be show as a guard for a vehicle or object. He is also the first line of defence for that vehicle or object.

A sentry will be timed to spread across a number of personnel. Normally a sentry duty (Or STAG as we call it) will last 1 hour. A sentry is never put alone. There will normally be 2 or more personnel

for a sentry duty.

5.2 What are their duties?

Sentry’s duties include: Guarding the encampment.

Observing the surroundings for enemies.

Defence for the rest of the squad.

Security of the encampment (LOGS TROOP MOVEMENTS)

To remember the duties of a sentry remember the GODS acronym.

5.3 Password Recognition Technique.

An important aspect of a sentry is Security. The security is kept within the encampment by using

the password recognition technique.

This can be split into several parts.

PART 1

Make up a camp password for that night (4 LETTERS).

I.E FISH (Foxtrot, India, Sierra, Hotel)

PART 2

When approached by a sentry he will ask the following.

“HALT!” “ADVANCE 1 AND BE RECONISED.”

PART 3

You will then take 1 step forward.


PART 4

The sentry will then state the first 2 letters of the password.

“FOXTROT, INDIA”

PART 5

You will then complete the password within 5 seconds without hesitation by saying the second 2

letters of the password.

“SIERRA, HOTEL”

If you do not answer convincingly the sentry will sound the alarm and take you into custody. In real

life you would be SHOT!

5.4 How to take out a sentry.

To kill a sentry always approach from behind if possible as a sentry will be standing in front of the

object he is guarding and will not check behind him often.

Be silent. Approach quietly use a ghost movement

When at the sentry gag his mouth with your hand, at the same time put the knife down by his

shoulder blade.

After that he will die quickly. Take his weight and slowly let him to the ground.

DO NOT LET HIM FALL, YOU WILL BE HEARD.

The best time to attack a sentry is about 5 minutes after they have changed sentries.

This time is best because the sentry is still tired from being woken, also he has not adapted to the night so will not be able to see you easily.

If you are still unsure ask an NCO to demonstrate.


6 Field Craft Kit and Routine.

6.1 Personal kit. 6.2 Field craft kit.

6.3 How to pack the kit.

6.4 Routine.

6.1 Personal Kit.

This is the BASIC kit you will need to take whenever you go on exercise. (See An NCO for a

more advanced list)

Combats (GREENS) A rucksack (BERGEN),

A Sleeping Bag,

A change of clothes,

Burner And Fuel,

A torch and spare Batteries,

Food:

1x Tea (FRI)

1x Breakfast (SAT)

1x Dinner (SAT)

1x Tea (SAT)

1x Breakfast (SUN)

Also take lots of snacks with high sugar content. If you like mars bars take as many

as possible.

Water (2 – 3L), Basic First Aid Kit,

A Whistle, Money (OPTIONAL).

6.2 Field Craft Kit

This kit is not as essential however will need to be brought for shelter building, or observation

posts, and for your personal camouflage and concealment of your shelter and yourself during exercise. This is only a BASIC kit list (See an NCO for a more advanced list)

Tarpaulin / Poncho (Plastic Sheeting).

Bungee cords.

Para-cord or string

Extra small concealed torches, with spare batteries.

Camouflage netting and camouflage cream.

Tent Pegs.

Survival kit.

Advanced first aid kit (SENIOR CADETS).

Spare combats.

Waterproof Combats.

Webbing (OPTIONAL)


6.3 How to pack the kit

6.3.1 Rucksack or Bergen

6.3.2 Webbing System

6.3.1 Rucksack or Bergen

Below is a labelled diagram to give you a guide of how to pack a rucksack or Bergen.

IT IS ONLY A GUIDE. Use your own experience to alter how you pack your bag accordingly.


6.3.2 Webbing System

Below is a labelled diagram to give you a guide of how to pack a webbing system

IT IS ONLY A GUIDE. Use your own experience to alter how you pack your bag accordingly.

6.4 Routine

When on exercise how you organised your routine the more efficient your camp is.

The main rules of routine to remember are:

1. IF YOU ARE NOT USING IT, PUT IT AWAY.

2. ONLY TAKE OUT WHAT YOU NEED.

We use these rules to keep as mobilised as possible, always be ready for a BUG OUT order which may be given at any time, by a sentry usually.

A BUG OUT order means in basic terms:

1. GRAB KIT

2. PUT OUT ANY FLAMES

3. PULL DOWN SHELTER

4. GET OUT OF CAMP

5. RENDEZVOUS AT THE ERP (EMERGENCY RENDEZVOUS POINT)


6. Section Assaults

7.1 What is a section assault?

7.2 Pepper-potting.

7.3 Definitions of Battle Commands.

7.1 What is a section assault?

A section assault is an attack on and object or enemy formation. It is done as a pre-determined section attack so the enemy becomes confused and finds it hard to lock on to the attacking force.

7.2 Pepper-potting.

Pepper-potting is our name for a section assault on an object. The pepper-potting layout is shown

below.

The parts are now explained below and on the following page.

PART 1


Numbers 1,2,3,4 advance 5 paces forward in a zig-zag run.

PART 2


PART 3

Both sections roll to the left.

PART 4


PART 5


PART 6

Both sections roll to the right.

BREAK DOWN BREAK DOWN

PART 7

Numbers 1,2 advance 5 paces forward and at an angle to the left in a zig-zag run.

Numbers 5,6 advance 5 paces forward in a zig-zag run.

PART 8

Numbers 7,8 advance 5 paces forward and at an angle to the right in a zig-zag run.


PART 9

Number 5 followed by his commander throws a grenade into the bunker

PART 10

Numbers 1,2 advance 5 paces forward and at an angle to the left in a zig-zag run. Number 6 advance 5 paces forward in a zig-zag run.

PART 11


Numbers 3 advance 5 paces forward in a zig-zag run.

PART 12

Numbers 6,3 close in on sides of bunker and kills any other enemy alive in the bunker.


PART 13

Numbers 1,2 advance 5 paces forward and at an angle to the left in a zig-zag run.


PART 14


FINAL PART

After bunker and area is secured, bodies are searched. And either the commander or the 2 IC calls a

roll call of the squad.

7.3 Definitions Of Battle Commands.

NCOs and senior cadets must know these battle commands and what they mean. Cadets must know what to do when a command is called.

SECTION ATTACK TO THE ……………. (FRONT, REAR, LEFT, RIGHT)

This command will be given at the beginning of the section assault. When the command is

given everyone will hit the floor and Check ammunition.

………… (ALPHA, BRAVO) PREPARE TO MOVE

This command follows the one above. This means double-check all loose articles are secure,

double-check ammunition. And prepare to attack.

MOVE!!!!

Attack in the direction already specified.

DOWN!!!!

All in that section get down.

UP!!!!!!

All in that section get up.

COVER!!!!

Find some cover.

COVERING FIRE!!!

Fire upon the enemy to give support to the other section.

BREAK DOWN!!!!! BREAKDOWN!!!!!

All members in both sections breakdown into their individual groups.

CONTACT

An enemy has been spotted or has been encountered. Get down and attack, wait for next order.


8. Ambushes.

8.1 What is an ambush? 8.2 Preferred terrain for an ambush.

8.3 Layout of an ambush.

8.4 Definitions of areas / terms within an ambush.

8.1 What is an ambush?

An ambush is when a small squad of about 8 fortify an area covertly and lure enemy patrols into

this fortified area and kill the enemy with little fuss. An effective ambush will have the element of surprise over the enemy.

8.2 Preferred terrain for an ambush.

The best form of terrain for an effective ambush is:

A road or path, which is within a ditch (Steep sides. With camouflage.) And not a lot of

cover on the sides of the road or path.

A clearing between two wooded areas. THIS AMBUSH IS NOT AS EFFECTIVE AND

HARDER TO MAINTAIN.

8.3 Layout of an ambush.

8.31 Basic outline of an ambush layout. 8.32 Layout for ambush 1

8.33 Layout for ambush 2

8.31 Basic outline of an ambush layout.

An ambush has a basic principle layout. On each end there is a cut off zone. Placing a two-man crew on a machine gun creates this zone. Known as the Cut off crew.

In the centre of the ambush on the opposing sides are two crews of gunman. Their principle role is

to aid in killing any survivors the cut off crews missed. These crews are known as the Gunman

Crews

Clay walls normally protect the gunman crews. These walls act as a barrier to

1. Aid in the camouflage and concealment of the gunman crew.

2. Help to stop any bullets getting through to the gunman crew.

All terms are explained in section 8.4


8.32 Layout for ambush 1

The layout for this type of ambush is shown below. The terms used are explained in 8.4.

This form of ambush is normally the most commonly used because it is the most effective at killing

the enemy and hassle free to make.

It is the easier of the two to maintain and defend.

Also it is the easiest to set up.

This ambush may only take an hour to set up.


8.33 Layout of ambush 2

The layout for this type of ambush is shown below. The terms used are explained in 8.4.

This form of ambush is commonly used because it is more common to find this sort of terrain.

It is the harder of the two to maintain and defend.

There are many areas of cover for the enemy.

The cut off zones are not as effective.

Also it is the harder set up.

This ambush may take a few hours to set up.

8.4 Definitions of areas / terms within an ambush

KILL ZONE

The zone where most of the enemy is killed.

CUT – OFF ZONE

The area on the ends of the ambush where the enemy patrol is cut – off by the machine guns. (MG)

CLAY WALLS

A wall of clay or mud. Used to protect the ambush crews from enemy fire


9. Retreats

9.1 What is A Retreat? 9.2 Who orders the retreat?

9.3 Fire Base Retreats.

9.4 Ambush Retreats. 9.5 Retrieving Wounded.

9.1 What is a retreat?

A retreat is when a patrol spots or encounters an enemy who you cannot fight as they are too big of a force, or need to retreat to change the formation of the patrol ready for a section attack.

9.2 Who orders the retreat?

Normally the commander or the 2 IC will give the first command. After which the rest of the patrol

will repeat the order so everyone knows.

9.3 Fire Base Retreats.

A fire base retreat is when there is an enemy to your front or rear, and your need to change your

formation from a single/double file formation to a straight-line formation to optimise your

firepower on the enemy.

A fire base retreat layout is shown below in part 1, and on the next page in part 2

PART 1

Front two members do no move.

Each member on the left takes up to 3 paces left.


Each member on the right takes up to 3 paces right

PART 2

In turn each set of members. (1+2 3+4 5+6) Move into line by turning into the base and

running in line with the last two members (7+8)

This now creates a straight-line formation.

PART 3

From this straight line the commander then has a choice. Either the squad performs a section assault

on the enemy. (SEE Section assaults part 7.2)

Or the squad peels off into a covered area. The command for a peel off will be given like this.

Prepare to peel off to the ……. (RIGHT/LEFT) on my order.

The next command will then be,

MOVE!!!

On this command the squad will peel off to the …… (RIGHT/LEFT)

To peel off the member furthest away from the cover will get up and run to the other side of the

squad. On the way tapping the next person, who will then follow on tapping the next and so on.

When the squad is close enough to the cover the command will say:

FOLLOW ME

Which means as soon as he/she gets up the rest of the squad all gets up and runs for cover.

9.4 Ambush Retreats.

When an enemy ambushes a squad there is little chance of the patrol surviving however this is the

drill preformed in the case of any survivors.

First of all HIT THE DECK and find the nearest form of cover if any.

Secondly attack covertly following the diagram below.


Numbers 1 + 8 are normally the first to die, as they will be caught in the cut off fire from the cut off

crews on the machine guns. If numbers 2 + 7 survive they will normally sneak up on the cut off

crews and kill them from behind. Then using the machine guns they acquired, kill the other enemy

gunman.

9.5 Retrieving Wounded

When any member of a patrol is wounded in the battlefield and the rest of the patrol is not involved

in a section attack the patrol must retrieve the casualty.

To do this we use the following drill shown in the diagram:

CASUALTY

Number 4 is the casualty. Number 5 is the I.C

Numbers 1,5,8 will give covering fire. The I.C will then command the covering party (2 + 7) to

MOVE. Once they have reached the casualty they will lay down cover fire. The I.C will then

command the Rescue party (3 + 6) to MOVE. They will evacuate the casualty to safety. Once the

rescue party has retuned the covering party will be ordered to return. Once they are safely in the squad the I.C can command a peel left or peel right into cover.


10. Shelter Building.

10.1 Shelter Building Equipment. 10.2 A-Frame Shelter.

10.3 Con-cave Shelter.

10.4 Shell-scrape Shelter. 10.5 Harbour Areas.

10.1 Shelter Building Equipment.

To build a basher or shelter normally the following equipment is needed.

For a basic shelter.

Tarpaulin or poncho. String

Tent pegs.

Other equipment may also be needed for specific shelters.

Pickaxe

Trenching trowel.

10.2 A-Frame Shelter

A frame shelter is a quick and strong shelter. Place two support beams on either side of the main support of the structure (Normally a tree) and one in the centre if it a large shelter. Next lash a roof

beam across these support beams you may need more than 1 in a large shelter. Next add your waterproof material and tightly attach it to the ground. Next use light camouflage to cover your

shelter. This is illustrated in the diagram below.

This is the basic structure underlay.


10.3 Con-Cave Shelter.

This shelter is quite simple to build however requires a lot of work to build.

To build this shelter, dig out a small hole big enough for you and your stuff. Square off the sides

and put all the used soil on the one side of the shelter area. Next put logs on the other remaining

sides. Next place long sticks along the top of these logs covering the sides and the top of the shelter

but leave the side with the mud. Next place the waterproofing over this hole. Use the side with the

mud as an entrance by removing a small part and enforce the entrance by placing supports on all

sides. Next use the cross supports to hold camouflage and cover your shelter.

The basic structure is shown below.

This is the basic layout.

10.4 Shell-Scrape Shelter.

This shelter is also a simple shelter to make.

Simply dig out a circular hole putting the waste mud on the four sides to make a mound. Next place

a support over the top of the hole at a height like in a tent. From this add your waterproof material

then add sticks on the side to the main support to hold your camouflage. Then cover your shelter.

The basic structure is shown below.

This is the basic layout.

10.5 Harbour Areas

A harbour area is basically an encampment where you would stay for just a few hours for up to a

week or month.

The basic layout of a harbour area can expand over a vast distance depending on the size of the

squadron.

In a harbour area you have in the centre your HQ or headquarters. This will contain the highest

member.

About 10 meters from this centre point is the section I.C’s on all four sides. These will contain the second highest members.

About 10 meters from them will be the personnel 2-man shelters, normally two – four of them for

each section.

The harbour area is also known as the spiders web because of all the strings, which connect the

harbour area.


The zone between the I.C’s and the personnel is the sentry route or Clean Zone. This area has a path

cleaned for sentries to walk around the harbour area without being heard.

A sentry will walk around in a circle on a guided path normally laid out by a string.

The basic layout of a harbour area is shown on below:


11. Recons.

11.1 What is a recon? 11.2 How to perform a recon successfully.

11.1 What is a recon?

A recon is basically a patrol, which does not have a mission to engage the enemy but to observe the

enemy. In a recon the patrol will have lighter kit and only be out on patrol for a short period of time.

11.2 How to perform a recon successfully.

To perform a recon successfully you must remember that you do not engage the enemy.

To remember the main rules for a recon remember RODS

R ecord all enemy movements.

O bserve all enemy movements.

D o not engage with the enemy.

S ilence during the recon.

To perform a recon this is all you really need to know, the rest of what is required are stated

in the separate sections listed below:

Section 1 – Camouflage and concealment.

Section 2 – Patrolling

Section 3 – Patrol formations

Section 4 – Hand signals

Section 12 – Target indication

Section 16 – radio operations

Section 17 – phonetic alphabet


12. Target indication 12.1 What is Target Indication?

12.2 When we use Target Indication.

12.3 Explanation of Target Indication.

12.1 What is Target Indication?

Target Indication is a system the military use to describe buildings over the radio. The colours in

target indication go with the twelve-hour clock system of identification also.

12.2 When we use target indication.

We use target indication when we need to describe a building to a radio operator so that an attack may be planned. This attack may be executed on the spot at that time or if the patrol was in a recon

would be planned at executed at a later date.

Target Indication is used a lot during RECONS.

12.3 Explanation of Target Indication.

Target Indication uses different colours for different sides of a building. These sides can also be

interpreted in the twelve-hour clock system of identification.

In the diagram below it shows the outline of an aerial view of a building with the twelve-hour

interface incorporated.


When describing the building over the radio you must first say what side of the building you are

looking at. To do this uses the system above. The first side you find is normally stated as the

WHITE side. Unless you decide otherwise, or another patrol has already began a transmission on that building.

The next stage of target indication is that you must tell the operator of the openings in the building.

This is shown in the diagram below.

You always state the openings from left to right.


For this building you would state:

On the white side of a building there is 3 floors.

Floor 1 has 3 openings.

1.1 Is a window.

1.2 Is a door. It opens………… (INWARD/OUTWARD)

1.3 Is a window.


2.1 Is a window. It is between 1.1 and 1.2

2.2 Is a window. It is between 1.2and 1.3


3.1 Is a window. It is above 1.1



The roof is triangle shaped and slanted towards the white and black sides.

With no openings. And made of ……..

Next you say if there are any enemies on the premises.

In 3.2 there is 1 enemy.

There are no other visible buildings at this site.

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13. Survival Techniques.

13.1 Survival navigation. 13.2 Gathering Water.

13.3 Gathering Food.

13.1 Survival Navigation

13.1.1 Why use survival Navigation. 13.1.2 Using the sun for navigation.

13.1.3 Using the stars for navigation

13.1.4 Using Natural plant for navigation.

13.1.5 Using a hand made compass.

13.1.6 Using the wind for navigation.

13.1.1 Why use survival Navigation.

Survival navigation is useful for finding quick bearings. For accurate readings use a compass,

however in some areas such as mountains or iron deposits a normal compass cannot be used.

13.1.2 Using the sun for navigation.

The sun rises in the east and moves in the sky towards the west where it sets.

To find north during the day watch the sun and the direction it moves is west.

Also you can use a classic watch face. Point the hour hand at the sun. Half way between the 12 and

the hour hand is north.

13.1.3 Using the stars for navigation.

To find the North Star in the night sky follow the constellation little bear. At the top there is a

bright star that is the North Star.

As shown in the diagram below.


13.1.4 Using natural plant growth for navigation.

The plant MOSS only grows on the north side of tree trunks. So to find north look at tree trunks in a

wooded area and the side with the most moss is usually north.

13.1.5 Using a hand made compass.

There are two main types of hand made compasses.

The first is a leaf compass. This compass needs a cupped leaf full of water and a metal needle. The needle will spin and stop just like a normal compass. This compass is not extremely reliable.

The second compass is a trunk compass. To use this compass find a cut tree trunk. The side where

the rings are off centre is south. So the opposite side is north.

13.1.6 Using the wind for navigation.

This form of navigation only works in Britain. Basically the prevailing wind in Britain blows from east to west. However different countries have different prevailing winds.

13.2 Gathering Water

13.2.1 Solar still.

13.2.2 Transpiration Trap.

13.2.1 Solar Still

To make a solar still dig a round hole ideally in a dried up riverbed or anywhere there is likely to be

trapped moisture. Place a container (Such as a mess tin) in the middle of the hole; cover the hole

with a waterproof sheet. Next place a stone on both sides of the sheet on the top sides of the hole to

secure it then place a stone in the middle of the sheet, so it drips down into the sheet and drip into

the container.

This is shown in the diagram.

13.2.2 Transpiration Trap.

To make a transpiration trap tie a plastic bag around the leafiest branch you can find and make it

airtight. As the leaves give off moisture water will start to pool at the bottom corner of the bag. Drop a stone in the bag to keep the leaves out of the water.

This is shown in the diagram below.


13.3 Gathering Food

There are many methods of gathering food. Sum of the most common ways are listed and explained

below.

13.3.1 Hunting.

13.3.2 Fishing.

13.3.1 Hunting.

To catch food such as rabbits are the most common example make small traps. To make these traps

make a looped slipknot lay this on the floor and have it tied onto a tree or branch bend the branch

down and lightly attach it to the ground near where your prey will gather some food. And then just

wait. When the prey goes to eat the food the trap will spring hopefully catching one of its feet in the loop and will be held up in the air ready to be killed, skinned and cooked.

This form of gathering food has not got a direct approach and can be left if necessary to do other

jobs that may be required.

13.3.2 Fishing

The other option is more time consuming and more of a leisure skill, which requires patience.

However this form of gathering food (Fishing) can be adapted to be a self-maintained food source.

To catch food either use a conventional form of fishing using a survival fishing wire and a stick as a

rod or you can block a stream by putting in wooden stakes in a line across the stream and attaching

smaller sticks along the horizontal this makes a form of net. The downside to the net is that it

catches leaves and other unwanted material and needs to be checked cleaned quite regular of waste

and food.


14. FIBUA (Fighting In Built Up Areas.)

14.1 What is FIBUA or FISH?

14.2 Section Composition. 14.3 Layout of FIBUA Assaults.

14.1 What is FIBUA or FISH?

FIBUA (Fighting In Built Up Areas) or FISH (Fighting In Someone’s House) are the terms given to

Urban Warfare. Urban warfare is conflicts in towns or cities.

14.2 Section Composition.

In a section for a FIBUA assault there is almost always these members:

Commander or IC 2IC

Gunner

Runner

Entry Team 1 - 2 members

Entry Team 2 - 2 members

14.3 Layout of FIBUA assaults.

In the diagram below it is shown how the entry team assaults the house.


On entry the gunner will put down cover fire on the enemy.

After the cover fire is put on the enemy. The entry teams will enter the building and sweep each

room.

When the room is clear of all enemies the person checking that room will shout

(The predetermined room number) and CLEAR

For example “Room 1 CLEAR.”

This command has now told the rest of the squad firstly how far into the house your squad has got

to and which rooms have already been cleared so they do not have to check the same room twice.

Some buildings will require different entry methods.

Use all available methods of entry.

ALWAYS CHECK THAT EACH MEMBER KNOWS WHAT THEY ARE DOING. IF

POSSIBLE AND TIME PERMITTED. PRACTISE WITH AN OUTLINED ROOM

STRUCTURE.

REMEMBER EVERY TEAM MEMBER IS CRTITICAL IN FIBUA ASSAULTS.


15. Military Searches

15.1 Body Searching 15.1.1 Why perform body searches.

15.1.2 What to look for.

15.1.3 Body searches on dead bodies.

15.1.4 Body searches on live bodies / Prisoners.

15.2 Vehicle Searches

15.1.1 Why perform body searches.

Body searches are performed to check firstly that a person is either alive or dead, and to gather

intelligence on the enemy and to check for any weapons a prisoner may have in his/her possession.

15.1.2 What to look for.

On a dead body search the things you should look for are:

• Ammunition and or weapons.

• Any rank slides.

• Any intelligence on enemy movements.

• Any other items you may require.

On a live body search the things you should look for are:

• Ammunition and weapons.

• Any escape equipment.

• Any intelligence on enemy movements.

• Any rank slides.

• Any other objects you may find hostile.

15.1.3 Body searches on dead bodies.

When searching a dead body you should use 2 people to do the search.

The one person will stand to one side of the body in a knelt down position. The person will then aim

the gun at the body. This is done in case the body is still alive.

The second member will then approach the body from the bottom corner opposite to the first

member. Firstly he will check that the person is dead. To do this either kick the person in a

venerable area or drop your knee into the rear of his knee cap. If the person is alive he will make a

noise at which point the other member will shoot the body. If the member is alive skip next section.

After checking the body is dead get as low and as close as possible to the floor in parallel to the body. Next place your right hand on his waist and your left hand on his shoulder blade. Then when


the other member is ready roll the body towards you. The other member will then either say

“CLEAR” to say there is no weapon or describe the weapon in one word. Such as “GRENADE” Or “MINE”

If CLEAR is stated roll the body completely over and search from the boots to head for any items

that was listed in 15.2 under dead bodies. Pay attention to all areas.

If a weapon is stated roll the body over onto the weapon and run as fast as you can and find cover.

The body would then have the impact of whatever weapon was stated.

A basic layout is illustrated in the diagram below.

15.1.4 Body searches on live bodies / Prisoners

When searching a live body or prisoner a 2-man team is normally used however can be performed

safely by only 1 member.

The best way to search a prisoner is to just have them stand up with their arms help up directly

horizontal.

From this position check from the head to the boot for any articles listed in 15.3 under live bodies. When searching however pay closer attention to detail check the hair, back, under-arms rank slides,

legs and kneecaps and inside boots. DO NOT LEAVE ANY PART UNSEARCHED IF POSSIBLE weapons or escape aids can be hidden anywhere.

A simple diagram will illustrate a basic outline.


15.2 Vehicle Searches

When performing a vehicle search firstly remove all threats from the vehicle (E.G any personnel

within the vehicle) and search them appropriately according to 15.1 previously explained.

Begin your vehicle search effectively and accurately by scanning the vehicle over in obvious places

and then in more depth.

After this begin your more in depth search for any explosives, ammunition or weapons, drugs or

any other illegal or harmful objects/substances.

There are 5 main areas on the vehicle to search these are listed below in the table, with possible

places for hiding objects

UNDERNEATH

THE VEHICLE

OUTSIDE THE

VEHICLE

INSIDE THE

BOOT

INSIDE THE

VEHICLE

IN THE ENGINE

COMPARTMENT

• radiator

• engine sump

• exhaust

silencer

• fuel tank

• chassis

• lights

• bonnet

• petrol filler cap

• filler tank pipe

• rear window

shelf

• spare tyre

• spare wheel

• seat

• seat fabric

• heating

system

• ashtrays

• gear stick

• handbrake housing

• carpets

• rubber floor covering

• radio

• pipes

• radiator

• cooling system

cap

• oil filter

• filter bowl

For a more in depth explanation see a senior member of staff for a demonstration or other

areas of this manual


16. QBO’S (Quick Battle Orders)

16.1 What are QBO’s? 16.2 Layout Of A QBO.

16.1 What are QBO’s.

QBO’s are Quick Battle Orders. This is what a commander of a large-scale assault would give

before the assault. A QBO is like a briefing of a large-scale attack.

16.2 Layout Of A QBO.

16.2.1 Designation of personnel.

16.2.2 Ground / Terrain. 16.2.3 Situation.

16.2.4 Mission.

16.2.5 Execution.

16.2.6 Summary.

16.2.1 Designation of Personnel.

Firstly when you start your briefing you say who does what.

16.2.2 Ground / Terrain.

In your second part you describe the type of terrain faced.

You also must describe the area in general. Including friendly and enemy positions.

16.2.3 Situation.

In the situation you must describe the enemy forces.

• Location.

• Worst Action they can take. I.E FIREPOWER

• Main Enemy Ground. (Description of enemy territory.)

In the situation you must also describe the Friendly forces.

• Position of any neighbouring forces.

• The relative power to the enemy.

• What friendly combat support is available (Artillery)


16.2.4 Mission.

The mission part of the QBO must be repeated twice.

The best way to phrase what your mission is about is to say:

“OUR MISSION IS TO ………………………………………………………………………….

IN ORDER TO……………………………………………………………………………………”

16.2.5 Execution.

Give the squad a concept of what the operation is.

Tell them of any important schemes of manoeuvres against the enemy. -

Basically how to move offensively against the enemy.

Tell them of the squads order of March. – Basically how the squad is to move.

16.2.6 Summary.

At the end of the briefing firstly give a short to the point summary of their tasks and of their orders.

Later check every member knows what he or she is doing by asking if anyone has any questions,

and confirming with your own.


17. Radio Operations.

17.1 What are call signs, and what is ours? 17.2 Using the Radio Operations.

17.3 Calling.

17.4 Radio Checks. 17.5 Authentications.

17.6 Radio Intelligence.

17.7 Prowords.

17.1 What are call signs, and what is ours?

Call signs are basically radio names. Every radio in use will have a call sign. These call signs are

used in case of interceptions.

For example if you heard.

“Hello Fred radio at this base.”

If anyone intercepted that transmission they would know basically everything about it.

Unit Call signs are made up of two parts: -

B 20A (Bravo TOO, ZERO Alpha)

Indicator Fixed Indicator Fixed

Call sign Call sign

In unit call signs the fixed call sign will have a number in the below ranges and a letter from the

below range.

0 (HQ) A 10 – 14 B

20 – 24 C 30 – 34 D

40 – 44 E F

We use the phonetic alphabet to create the beginnings of call signs.

Our squadron HQ (2308 ATC) has its own call sign, which is:

MRW 08 (BASE / RADIO)

This is said as:

Mike Romeo Whisky Zero Eight (BASE / RADIO)


This stands for:

Military. Royal Air Force. Wales 08 (the 08 is our squadron 2308)

17.2 Using the Radio Operations.

Whenever operating on a radio in the squadron always remember SAD:

S ecurity

A ccuracy

D iscipline

SECURITY

Information is valuable so be as covert with your transmissions as possible but still be clear with

what you are saying.

ACCURACY

Be as accurate as possible with your information the more accurate it is the better the operation will

go.

DISCIPLINE

There are several things to remember to be disciplined on a radio:-

• Use correct Voice.

• Keep a continuous radio watch (You are the first to start on exercise and the last to finish).

• Check and maintain correct frequencies.

• Answer calls as soon as possible (If a call cannot reach an operator try relaying the message)

• Listen and transmit (Think)

• Release promptly after transmission has ended (or you will continue to transmit).

• Ensure the radio returns to receive.

Never on a radio do: -

• Swear or lose your temper. (Only makes things worse).

• Say CONTACT or REPEAT (They do not mean the same on a radio).

• Break radio silence.

• Comprimise classified information.

• Make unnecessarily long transmissions.

• Engage in unofficial conversations. (CHIT-CHAT)

• Identify by a name or nick name.

Secondly when transmitting think what you are going to say on your transmission before making it.

The transmission however it may have taken longer to go through on the radio will be clearer to the


receiver and the information will end up being passed less times between operators and will be less

likely that the information will be intercepted.

When talking on the radio remember also RSVP to control the way you talk on a radio.

R hythm - Of a steady rhythm, try not to stutter.

S peed - slightly slower than normal speech.

V olume - normal volume unless conditions do not allow.

P itch - Slightly higher pitch if possible.

17.3 Calling.

17.3.1 Calling operators.

17.3.2 Replying to operators. 17.3.3 Types of call.

17.3.1 Calling Operators.

To call an operator is simple. All you need are the three core parts of a first or opening transmission.

Initial Call.

Text Of Message.

Ending.

Initial Call. Hello……… - alerts net to your transmission and to whom it is for.

This is ……. - your call sign so the net knows who is making the transmission for a reply.

Text Of Message.

All the information that is needed to be passed is said here unless it is a long message where it is

passed in chunks. Using the section ending ROGER SO FAR OVER.

Ending.

OUT – End of message, NO reply.

OVER – End of message, WANT reply.

OUT TO YOU – End of message, NO reply from you am going to relay a message.


17.3.2 Replying to Operators.

To reply to an operator is simple. All you need are the three core parts of a first or opening

transmission.

Your call sign.

Text Of message.

Roger

Ending.

• State call sign (and call sign of who the reply is for)

• Your text of the reply

• Roger (To acknowledge receipt of last message)

• End

o OUT

o OUT TO YOU

o WAIT OUT (Wait 5 minutes if nothing heard state: “NOTHING HEARD OUT”.)

17.3.3 Types Of Call.

There are seven main types of transmission:

• Single - Transmitting to one operator.

• Multiple - Transmitting to multiple operators.

• Collective - Transmitting to a pre-set group.

• All Stations - Transmitting to every operator.

• Exempt - Transmitting to every operator except the call sign mentioned.

• Relay - Transmissions Relayed through an operator to another. To accept a relay state: “RELAY THROUGH ME”

• Long Messages - - For long messages send it in chunks. To do a long message finish each section with:

“ROGER SO FAR OVER”

17.4 Radio checks.

When a radio frequency first becomes operational it is necessary to check if the communication is

readable. To do this the first person (normally the Headquarters) will state:

“Hello MRW08 M1 this is MRW08 Base Radio Check Over”

Or

“Hello ALL STATIONS this is ZERO Radio Check Over”

This is pronounced as:

“Hello Mike Romeo Whiskey Zero Eight Mike 1 this is Mike Romeo Whiskey Zero Eight Base

Radio Check Over” For the response you must state two things. Firstly the strength of the signal and then the readability

of the signal.


The responses for strength are shown below:

1 - Best Quality - “LOUD”

2 - Good Quality - “GOOD”

3 - Average Quality - “WEAK”

4 - Weak Quality - “VERY WEAK”

5 - Very Weak - “FADING”

The responses for readability are shown below:

1 - Excellent - “CLEAR”

2 - Good - “READABLE”

3 - Average - “UNREADABLE”

4 - Hard to Read - “DISTORTED”

5 - Intermittent - “INTERMITTENT”

6 - Not Understandable - “INTERFERENCE”

17.5 Authentications.

Radio authentications are necessary to check to see if it really is the correct person you are talking

to. To perform a radio authentication we use four codes. These are:

ALPHA - Reply with stations squadron number (2308)

Example: MRW08 M1 this is base Authenticate Alpha Over

MRW08 base this is MRW08 M1 Authenticate Alpha as 2308 Over

MRW08 M1 this is MRW08 base Correct Out.

BRAVO - Reply with stations squadron number in reverse (8032)

Example: MRW08 M1 this is base Authenticate Bravo Over

MRW08 base this is MRW08 M1 Authenticate Bravo as 8032 Over MRW08 M1 this is MRW08 base Correct Out.

CHARLIE - Reply with stations squadron number added to the date (2308 + Date)

DATE = 12 April (2308 + 12)

Example: MRW08 M1 this is base Authenticate Charlie Over

MRW08 base this is MRW08 M1 Authenticate Charlie as 2320 Over

MRW08 M1 this is MRW08 base Correct Out.

DELTA - Reply with call sign number added to the date (08 + Date)

DATE = 12 April (08 + 12)

Example: MRW08 M1 this is base Authenticate Delta Over

MRW08 base this is MRW08 M1 Authenticate Delta as 20 Over MRW08 M1 this is MRW08 base Correct Out.


17.6 Radio Intelligence.

The enemy wants to know all the information possible about you. They may monitor transmissions

and use a standard system of gathering information. We use COIL.

C ombat effectiveness. - Casualties, support, ammunition and firepower.

O rder of battle. - Command structure.

I ntentions. - Tactics, Movements.

L ocations - Formations, HQ

Avoiding interception is quite easy on a radio just remember to monitor 3 areas.

• Observe Radio Silence (when necessary).

• Short Transmissions.

• Change frequencies and call signs.

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17.7 Prowords

When operating on the radio there are passwords, which relate to certain meanings. These are listed

below:

THIS IS - Indicates the call sign of the sender is about to follow.

OVER - This is the end of transmission however a reply is required.

OUT - This is the end of the transmission NO REPLY.

WAIT OUT - Your Transmission has been received a reply will follow later.

WILCO - Message received, understood and will comply with instructions.

ROGER - I have received your last transmission satisfactory.

SAY AGAIN - Request for a repetition of whole or part of message.

MESSAGE - The transmission to follow will be required to be written down.

FIGURES - Used before groups of numbers. Sent digit by digit.

GRID - Used before a set of grid references.

RADIO CHECK - Report how you receive my transmission. SEE 16.2

SPEAK SLOWER - Transmit at a slower speed.

BREAK - separates large groups of text or stations.

TIME - The following group is a time or date time group.

UNKNOWN STATION - Used when calling an unidentified station.

WRONG - Your last transmission was incorrect

CORRECT - Your last transmission was correct

CONTACT - Enemy has been engaged (NEVER USE THIS OVER A RADIO)

CANCEL - Cancels last transmission


18. Phonetics

18.1 Phonetic Alphabet . A-Z

18.2 Phonetic Numbers . 0-9

18.1 Phonetic Alphabet. A-Z

Letter R.A.F Phonetic Representation

A

ALPHA

B BRAVO

C CHARLIE

D DELTA

E ECHO

F FOXTROT

G GOLF

H HOTEL

I INDIA

J JUILIET

K KILO

L LEMA

M MIKE

N NOVEMBER

O OSCAR

P PAPA

Q QUBEC

R ROMEO

S SIERRA

T TANGO

U UNIFORM

V VICTOR

W WHISKEY

X X-RAY

Y YANKEE

Z ZULU


18.2 Phonetic Numbers. 0-9

Number R.A.F Phonetic Representation

0

ZERO

1 WUN

2 TOO

3 TREE

4 FOW ER

5 FIFE

6 SIX

7 SEV EN

8 AIT

9 NIN ER

DECIMAL DAY SEE MAL

THOUSAND TOU SAND

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END OF MANUAL

JAMES Field Craft Manual

Documents

mike romeo

fullest extent

password recognition

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field craft

base radio

double file

fixed call