text: Chapter 5
  • Understanding of search restrictions and special considerations to include—
  (cid:131) Searching of religious buildings.
  (cid:131) Searching of females by female Soldiers.
  (cid:131) Searching of historical, cultural, or governmental sites (unauthorized or hostile).
  • Host nation security forces or local interpreters.
  • Biometrics tools.
  • Breaching kit.
  • Vehicle access tools such as lock picks.
  • Information engagement products and tools.
  • Audio and video recording devices and data imaging devices.
  • Markings and signaling techniques and any constraints.
  • Respect for personal property.
  • Tools to collect and record information for HUMINT.
  • Necessity to maintain communication and report location.
  • Standardization of maps, imagery, and labeling conventions.
  Reserve Element
  5-71. The reserve element or QRF must possess and maintain enough combat power to defeat the
  insurgent forces templated within the AO. The commander gives priorities for planning to the reserve that
  could include to be prepared to execute any of the subordinate unit missions. Priorities can also include
  additional missions such as CASEVAC or reinforcement. The reserve element leader focuses efforts on
  synchronized communications, rehearsals, battle tracking, and positioning before and during the operation.
  Reconnaissance
  5-72. Every target area should be reconnoitered prior to execution using many of the available
  resources. If the target is part of a unit’s AO, then a patrol around the target may not be out of order. ISR
  assets, attack reconnaissance aviation, local nationals, and imagery are other methods for conducting
  reconnaissance. The reconnaissance plan must not provide the enemy with indicators of an impending
  cordon and search. Given the nature of COIN, the reconnaissance phase could last an extended period,
  as units identify the relative size and location of buildings, entry points, cordon position and avenues
  of approach. Further tools for objective analysis may be obtained from attack aviation photographs, maps,
  and local emergency services departments.
  Movement to the Objective
  5-73. The timing, routes, and execution of movement to the objective should consider the factors
  of METT-TC, and whether it should be simultaneous or phased. If contact is made in the movement,
  commanders should consider whether they wish to send forces forward to initiate the cordon.
  Isolation of the Objective
  5-74. Although analysis of the mission variables using METT-TC determines specifics, a unit typically
  establishes the outer cordon first, establishes the inner cordon second, and moves the search element to the
  objective last. Commanders should consider the value of using the opposite technique of forming the
  cordons following rapid movement to the objective to gain surprise. Timing is when executing either
  technique is important. The quicker these three events are accomplished, the less time personnel on the
  objectives have to egress, find concealment, or destroy materials or equipment.
  Position the Reserve Element
  5-75. The reserve element or QRF is a mobile force positioned in a nearby area, with multiple planned
  ground, water, or air routes to the objective area. Its mission is to aid the search and security elements
  if they require assistance or become unable to achieve their purpose.