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Most engineers are challenged when they prepare for combined arms defensive operations-it's never the same twice in a row. What we do to effectively integrate engineer expertise into engagement area planning depends on the military decision-making process (MDMP). We must thoroughly understand the impact engineers can have in tactical operations. This article describes how staff engineers can best support the planning phase of engagement area development during the MDMP.
Development Steps
Successful integration of engineer capabilities into the MDMP requires that we read, understand, and apply our knowledge of the supported unit's doctrine and tactical standing operating procedures (TACSOPs). Engineers who support division or brigade defensive operations that assign or direct engagement areas must understand how to effectively integrate their capabilities into engagement area development.
Doctrine provides a sound planning reference that must be applied to the current situation and surrounding terrain. Figure 1 shows a variation of the seven steps of engagement area development found in FM 71-1, Tank and Mechanized Company Team, and FM 7-20, The Infantry Battalion. The most significant difference is the switching of steps 4 and 5-positioning forces (direct-fire assets) before planning and integrating obstacles. This switch is logical because the maneuver commander is the "client" we support. In addition to pointing to a map and stating where he wants to kill the enemy (step 3), the maneuver commander must conduct mission analysis and understand the enemy's intent (steps 1 and 2) and know what he can see to kill throughout the depth of the battlefield.
Developing a defensive course of action (COA) takes each battlefield operating system into account and synthesizes a combined arms team designed to achieve a given mission against an attacking enemy. The focus of the defense is to destroy or defeat the enemy at predetermined sites where terrain favors the defending friendly forces-the engagement areas. Determining what will be critical events, or decision points (DPs), during defensive operations requires detailed planning, analysis, war gaming, and synchronization. DPs trigger multiple actions during combat operations and must be synchronized by thorough staff planning and coordination. When executing defensive operations, commanders fight from a position that allows them to visualize the battlespace (the three-dimensional fight). Engineers are the best-suited personnel in the combined arms staff to facilitate terrain...