Bounding Technique
The bounding technique involves two or more elements successively moving forward of each other. The
elements may be squads or individual vehicles. The stationary element is responsible for providing security for
the moving element if possible. Constant communication is critical throughout. The stationary element continues
to make smoke while the other element moves. The moving element may or may not produce smoke while
moving. This technique allows the smoke unit to support a maneuvering force while retaining a high state of
security.
Squad Bounding. This technique could be used to isolate enemy forces or objectives. The screen is made using
two squads, one stationary squad and one bounding squad. The stationary squad makes smoke while the
bounding squad moves to its next position. Upon arrival, both squads make smoke until further bounding is
required. The dispersion between squads is 500- to 1000-meters. This allows for slow movement of the screen.
Once the bounding squad is in position, they continue or begin making smoke to conceal the movement of the
other squad. The disposition of enemy forces will determine whether the bounding element makes smoke on the
move.
Leap Frog Variation. The leap frog variation is similar to the bounding technique. It is used with a cross or
quartering wind. The platoon executes the lead frog while stationary. The platoon is in a line or echelon
formation. The last vehicle in line moves up to the front of the line, continuing to make smoke as it moves. Once
in position it notifies the last vehicle in line, which repeats the leap frog movement on order. The platoon
continues to move forward by successive leap frogs. This variation may be reversed by having the vehicles leap
frog from the front to the rear of the formation.
Circular Technique
This technique is best suited for narrow smoke objectives, such as river crossings, fixed sites, and deception
screens. Vehicles move on a circular route. The circular route is determined by terrain and the size of the
objective, but should be at least one-half mile in width. The vehicles traveling along the route try to maintain the
same interval throughout. The route must be well identified within the pattern. Screen density may be controlled
by vehicle dispersion and the length of the route.
Learning Event 4
DIRECT ACTIVITIES AT A SMOKE CONTROL POINT
The smoke control point refers to the location of the smoke control officer (normally the company executive
officer). This officer is responsible for control of the smoke portion of the operational mission. This point may
be colocated with the company CP. Communications personnel normally establish the net control station (NCS)
at this point also. The smoke control point must maintain communications with higher and lower headquarters.
Wire is the primary means in a static situation. Whenever possible, backup means will be ready in case of a
primary communications breakdown. Messengers should be designated and made familiar with routes they will
travel.
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