text: Defensive Considerations in Counterinsurgency
  6-27. Some differences exist between brigade and battalion FOBs. Brigade FOBs are larger than
  battalion FOBs, and they provide a rear location for elements of battalions such as forward support
  companies. A battalion FOB is normally staffed with the minimum personnel needed to operate
  and provide security. It should also maintain two methods for sustainment: road and either air or water.
  COMBAT OUTPOSTS
  6-28. This is a reinforced observation post that can conduct limited combat operations (FM 3-90).
  In counterinsurgency operations, combat outposts are often company and platoon-sized bases inside
  of insurgent-influenced territory. They represent a cornerstone of counterinsurgency operations, in that
  they are a means to secure the population. Located in strategically important areas, a combat outpost
  provides security in its immediate area and direct contact with the local populace. These benefits are
  unavailable from remote bases. Although the strategy carries with it potential downsides in terms
  of increased protection concerns and limiting flexibility, the bases provide a huge increase in overall
  security in the area.
  6-29. Properly placed combat outposts often increase overall security. Emplacing a company or platoon
  combat outpost in sector is a deliberate operation requiring detailed planning and additional logistical
  support. The unit must first decide the task and purpose of the outpost by analyzing their sector.
  Purpose
  6-30. Outposts may be employed—
  • To secure key lines of communication or infrastructure.
  • To secure and co-opt the local populace.
  • To gather intelligence.
  • To assist the government in restoring essential services.
  • To force insurgents to operate elsewhere.
  Priorities of Work
  6-31. For the initial establishment of combat outposts, priorities of work need to be considered. Some
  considerations include—
  • Ensuring the position is free of noncombatants. Removing them from the area of operations
  before occupying the position.
  • Selecting key weapons and crew-served weapon positions to cover likely mounted
  and dismounted avenues of approach.
  • Clearing fields of fire. Prepare loopholes, aiming stakes, sector stakes, and target reference
  point markings. Construct positions with overhead cover and camouflage.
  • Identifying and securing supra- and subsurface avenues of approach such as rooftops, sewers,
  basements, and stairwells.
  • Constructing barriers and emplacing obstacles to deny the enemy any access to streets,
  underground passages, and buildings, and to slow his movement in general.
  • Integrating barriers or obstacles with key weapons.
  • Improving and marking movement routes between positions, as well as to alternate
  and supplementary positions.
  • Stockpiling ammunition, food, firefighting equipment, and drinking water.
  PATROL BASES
  6-32. When a patrol halts for an extended period, it takes active and passive measures to provide
  maximum security by occupying a patrol base. A patrol base can be permanent or temporary.