text: Offensive Considerations in Counterinsurgency
  Establish the Cordon
  5-76. There are two techniques for emplacing the actual cordon positions: simultaneously
  and sequentially. Careful consideration must be given to both, because each has advantages
  and disadvantages. Units establishing a cordon position themselves to be able to block movement to
  and from the objective area. This may be by observed fire, but usually it will be by physically controlling
  routes. Cordon positions should be occupied rapidly just prior to the search element reaching the objective.
  Establishing the cordon during a period of limited visibility increases movement security but makes control
  difficult. Cordon positions, once occupied, will be detected by locals as they conduct their daily business.
  5-77. Both the outer and inner cordon leaders must maintain situational understanding of not only their
  AOs, but also each other’s cordon and the progress of operations of the search element. In doing so, they
  can anticipate insurgent activity, control direct and indirect fires, and achieve their task and purpose.
  5-78. The various positions of the outer and inner cordons may include, vehicle mounted platoons
  or sections, dismounted platoons or squads, interpreters, detainee security teams, crowd control teams,
  tactical PSYOP teams, observation posts, traffic control points or blocking positions, Host Nation security
  forces (military or police), and aviation assets.
  5-79. The outer cordon usually focuses on traffic control points and blocking positions, while the inner
  cordon focuses on overwatching the objective and preventing exfiltration or reposition of persons within
  the search area. Figure 5-5 shows the typical establishment of a cordon and Figure 5-6 shows the details
  of an inner cordon in an urban setting. Note the technique of assigning each building a number to increase
  clarity and coordination between units.
  Figure 5-5. Typical establishment of an urban cordon.