text: Chapter 13
  Figure 13-12. Attack using a covering force
  13-109. Unless the higher echelon orders otherwise, an offensive covering force performs specific tasks
  within its capabilities. If a covering force lacks the time or other resources to complete all these tasks, it must
  inform the higher headquarters assigning the mission of the shortfall and request guidance on which tasks to
  complete or the priority of tasks. After starting the mission, if the unit determines that it cannot complete an
  assigned task, such as destroying or repelling enemy reconnaissance and security forces in the enemy security
  area, it must report to the higher echelon and await further instructions while the unit continues to execute
  their assigned mission. Offensive covering force tasks include—
  * Destroy, disrupt, or fix enemy forces and reconnaissance assets in the disruption zone.
  * Conduct counterreconnaissance to destroy or defeat all enemy reconnaissance elements. Must
  prevent ground observation and direct fire against the main body.
  * Maintain contact with the protected force and other forces operating on its flanks.
  * Gain and maintain contact with enemy forces and report activity in the assigned area.
  * Maintain observation of avenues of approach that affect the protected forces’ mission.
  * Locate and identify enemy forces in the battle zone and conduct handover to follow-on forces.
  * Cause the enemy to commit resources to counter the cover force that would have been used against
  the main body.
  * Deny the enemy information about the size, strength, composition, and objective of the main body.
  * Determine enemy strengths, weaknesses, and disposition, and exploit opportunities until main
  body forces are committed.
  * Clear or bypass enemy forces in the assigned area in accordance with engagement criteria.
  * Conduct reconnaissance along the main body’s axis of advance.
  * Penetrate the enemy’s disruption zone to locate enemy main defensive positions.