text: Chapter 1
  Table 1-1. Squadron employment comparisons
  EMPLOYMENT OPTIONS
  Assignment in its own Operation in the Operations across another
  area of operations BCT deep areas battalion’s area of operations
  Tactical Route reconnaissance Route reconnaissance Route reconnaissance
  Tasks Area reconnaissance Area reconnaissance Area reconnaissance
  Zone reconnaissance Area security Area security
  Recon in force Route security Route security
  Screen Convoy security Convoy security
  Guard Hasty attack
  Cover
  Area security
  Route security
  Convoy security
  Hasty attack
  Advantages Least restrictive. Mitigates some risk to BCT in BCT commander can focus
  Focuses squadron efforts in the unassigned areas. squadron where needed most.
  one area. Allows BCT to focus battalions Enables detailed coordination
  Covers a broader area. in smaller area of operations. with maneuver battalions and
  Limits risk of fratricide. Potentially enables ability to BCT.
  identify networks across larger Battalions can provide rapid
  Provides greater freedom of
  area. transition to offensive and
  action and maneuver.
  Allows the BCT commander to defensive tasks.
  Simplifies sustainment.
  weight the main effort.
  Disadvant- Broader area may require Most restrictive. Requires significant and
  ages significant augmentation. Increased risk of fratricide. constant coordination with
  Broad knowledge of area of Potential for disbursed maneuver battalions and BCT.
  operations rather than deeper operations over a large area; Restrictive to freedom of action.
  understanding. noncontiguous operations within Greatest risk of fratricide.
  Provides limited view of the squadron. Increases sustainment
  networks (cannot operate High coordination with adjacent complexity.
  across boundaries). units and BCT headquarters
  Difficult fire support. most difficult sustainment
  operations.
  Most difficult fire support.
  Legend
  BCT brigade combat team SPT support