text: Chapter 4
  understanding of the operational environment combined with the time available to refine their understanding.
  In selecting one technique over the other, the commander considers the following:
  * Degree of the situational understanding of the enemy.
  * Time available to collect the information.
  * Leadership ability of subordinate commanders.
  * Proficiency of subordinate units to plan and rapidly react for uncertain situations.
  4-14. Reconnaissance-push is reconnaissance that refines the common operational picture, enabling the
  commander to finalize the plan and support shaping and decisive operations. Commanders use
  reconnaissance-push when they have relatively thorough understandings of the operational environments. In
  these cases, commanders “push” reconnaissance assets into specific portions of their areas of operations to
  confirm, deny, and validate planning assumptions affecting operations. Reconnaissance-push emphasizes
  detailed, well-rehearsed planning.
  4-15. Reconnaissance-pull is reconnaissance that determines which routes are suitable for maneuver, where
  the enemy is strong and weak, and where gaps exist, thus pulling the main body toward and along the path
  of least resistance. Commanders use reconnaissance-pull when they are uncertain of the compositions and
  dispositions of enemy forces in their areas of operations, information concerning terrain is vague, and time
  is limited. In these cases, reconnaissance assets initially work over broad areas to develop the enemy
  situations. As they gain an understanding of enemy weaknesses, they then “pull” the main body to positions
  of tactical advantage. Reconnaissance-pull knowingly emphasizes opportunity at the expense of a detailed,
  well-rehearsed plan, and unity of effort. Commanders base plans on several viable branches or courses of
  action triggered by decision points that reconnaissance assets operate to answer associated CCIRs. Leaders
  at all levels must understand and rehearse branches and sequels.
  RECONNAISSANCE METHODS
  4-16. Cavalry units use appropriate combinations of dismounted, mounted, aerial (manned and unmanned),
  reconnaissance by fire methods, and space assets to accomplish their missions during reconnaissance
  operations. No means is mutually exclusive of another, since the greater number of capabilities and units
  applied to information collection increases the operation’s effectiveness. All units conduct reconnaissance
  using a combination of dismounted, mounted, aerial, and reconnaissance by fire methods, augmented with
  brigade and higher echelon technical sensor capabilities.
  DISMOUNTED
  4-17. Dismounted reconnaissance is the most time-consuming method used by ground units but permits the
  most detailed information collection about the enemy, terrain, civil considerations, and infrastructure. The
  commander considers using dismounted reconnaissance when—
  * Stealth is required, or security is the primary concern.
  * Time is available.
  * Detailed information is required.
  * The reconnaissance objective is a stationary threat, fixed site, or terrain feature.
  * The unit expects, or has made, enemy contact through visual and/or electromagnetic means.
  * Reconnaissance vehicles cannot move through an area due to terrain or threat.
  * The terrain creates a visual dead space that prevents using optics or sensors.
  * Vehicles are not available.
  MOUNTED
  4-18. Mounted reconnaissance enables a more rapid tempo while increasing the potential compromise of
  reconnaissance efforts. Mounted reconnaissance should take advantage of standoff capabilities provided by
  surveillance and weapon systems to observe and engage from greater distances. Successful reconnaissance
  operations mix mounted and dismounted methods based on the enemy situation and time available. The
  commander considers mounted reconnaissance when—