text: Chapter 6
  MUTUAL SUPPORT
  6-46. Defending forces are positioned to ensure mutual employment of defensive resources that include
  fires, observation, and maneuver elements. Mutual support between defensive elements requires careful
  planning, positioning, and coordination because of the circular aspects of the base area. Surveillance,
  obstacles, prearranged fires, and maneuvers are used to control gaps.
  ALL-AROUND DEFENSE
  6-47. In defensive planning, the base commander must be prepared to defend against enemy attack from
  any direction. Plans are sufficiently flexible, and reserves are positioned to permit reaction to any threat.
  Base defense forces are assigned primary and alternate positions and sectors of responsibility. All
  personnel are assigned duty stations or shelters.
  RESPONSIVENESS
  6-48. Attacks against a base may range from long-range sniper, mortar, or rocket fire to attacks by
  suicide bombers or major forces. The insurgent has the advantage of deciding when, where, and with what
  force he will attack. The defender positions his forces and plans fires and movement so he can respond to
  the widest possible range of enemy actions. The defender prepares plans, to include counterattack plans,
  and rehearses, evaluates, and revises them as necessary.
  QUICK REACTION FORCE
  6-49. A QRF is a designated organization for any immediate response requirement that occurs in a
  designated area of operation (FM 3-90.6). A QRF increases the overall flexibility of a base defense
  and is available for contingencies. Usually a battalion will maintain a platoon sized QRF.
  COMBAT OUTPOST CONSTRUCTION CONSIDERATIONS
  6-50. Building a combat outpost is a complex task that must be well thought-out, with a clear vision
  from the beginning for expansion and development. It is always best to have trained engineers, either
  military or civilian construct the base. Heavy consideration must be given to using local companies
  or personnel in constructing the base. This will benefit the local economy; however, it will also increase the
  security risk. Figure 6-5 shows a typical combat outpost construction in Iraq. The following considerations
  are critical:
  PROTECTION
  6-51. Protection involves enemy and security considerations.
  Enemy
  • Coverage of dead spaces.
  • Creation of a safety zone to prevent rocket attacks.
  • Emplacement of IEDs along routes.
  • Observation.