Terrain Considerations - O.C.O.K.A.
The following military aspects of terrain are as outlined in Army Field Manual 7-8, Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad (p.2-8).| TERRAIN FACTOR | EXPLANATION |
|---|---|
| Observation and Fields of Fire | The potential offered to observe enemy approach and the fields of fire offered in terms of the range and other characteristics of weapons available. |
| Cover and Concealment | The potential for providing cover from both direct and indirect fire and concealment from enemy observation. |
| Obstacles | In the attack, the effect of restrictive terrain on the maneuverability of the unit. On the defense, the availability of natural or man-made obstacles to disrupt, turn, fix, or block an enemy force and protect friendly forces from enemy assault. |
| Key Terrain | Terrain whose seizure or retention affords a marked advantage to either combatant. Hills, plateaus, or other terrain features which could provide an advantage to the element occupying that position would be considered key terrain. |
| Avenues of Approach | On the offense, avenues of approach afford greatest protection and places attackers at enemy vulnerable spots. In the defense, expected routes of enemy approach to a position, to be covered by fires from defenders. |
Last modified: October 02, 2006 14:55:41