text: FM 7-100.1________________________________________________________________________________
  3-94. Like any other ambush, a sophisticated ambush is conducted against a
  moving or temporarily halted target. In this case, however, the IW plan is de-
  signed to facilitate infiltration or positioning of the ambushing forces and ex-
  pose the target. The OSC will be involved in IW planning and the coordina-
  tion of operational-level assets needed to support the ambush.
  3-95. A sophisticated ambush is conducted by forces autonomous on the bat-
  tlefield, but linked by C2 and purpose. It can often involve affiliated forces,
  particularly when conducted as part of adaptive operations. A sophisticated
  ambush is not necessarily tied to scheme of maneuver in that the larger part
  of the OPFOR force may be involved in an operation not directly related to
  the ambush.
  3-96. Sophisticated ambushes are characterized by
  • A key enemy target that, if destroyed, would significantly degrade the
  enemy’s will or ability to fight.
  • OPFOR sensor(s) with capability and mission to find and track the
  target. Sensors are often ground reconnaissance, but may include un-
  manned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or satellites.
  • A C2 method to link the ambushing forces and sensors.
  • Supporting operation(s)usually primarily IWto create a window of
  opportunity for the ambushing forces to act.
  3-97. A sophisticated ambush requires conditions similar to those needed for
  a dispersed attack. However, since less combat power is typically at risk in a
  sophisticated ambush, the window of opportunity does not need to be as ex-
  tensive. The window of opportunity needed to establish conditions favorable
  to the execution of a sophisticated ambush may be one created by the OPFOR
  or one that develops due to external factors in the operational environment.
  When this window must be created, the OPFOR keys on several tasks that
  must be accomplished:
  • Destroy enemy ground reconnaissance in the ambush area.
  • Deceive enemy imagery and signals sensors.
  • Establish effective air defense protection for ambushing forces.
  • Selectively deny situational awareness.
  • Maximize use of complex terrain.
  • Locate and track enemy security and response forces that could inter-
  fere with the ambush.
  • Locate and track ambush target.
  Spoiling Attack
  3-98. A spoiling attack is designed to control the tempo of combat by disrupt-
  ing the timing of enemy operations. This is accomplished by attacking during
  the planning and preparation for the enemy’s own offensive operations. Spoil-
  ing attacks do not have to accomplish a great deal to be successful. Con-
  versely, planners must focus carefully on what effect the attack is trying to
  achieve and how the attack will achieve that effect. In some cases, the pur-
  pose of the attack is to remove a key component of the enemy’s force array or