text: Chapter 5
  Security Patrols
  5-209. The difference between a security patrol and a raid or ambush patrol is that combat activity is not
  the primary mission of the security patrol. This is true even if combat is expected during the patrol.
  Security patrols normally seek to control critical roads and trails, maintain contact between villages
  and units, provide security for friendly forces, provide security in rural areas, and interdict insurgent routes
  of supply and communication.
  Saturation Patrols
  5-210. This is when units use numerous combat patrols to saturate an area of suspected insurgent activity
  by moving over planned and coordinated routes, which are changed frequently to avoid establishing
  patterns. Saturation patrols are extremely effective against insurgents. Use of saturation patrols results in
  the following:
  • Denial of an area to an insurgent force as it seeks to avoid contact with the saturation patrols.
  • Ability to harass insurgent forces.
  • Opportunity to discover insurgent forces.
  • Chance to gain an intimate knowledge of the area of operations.
  • Chance to reassure the local population that the government provides protection and security.
  Satellite Patrols
  5-211. This patrol technique adds depth to a patrol, deters ambushes, and provides patrols with a
  maneuver element on enemy contact. Figure 5-11 shows a satellite patrol moving through a built-up area.
  5-212. The satellite patrol uses a base unit to control smaller units, or satellites, that leave and return to
  the base unit. The advantage of this technique is the unpredictability, to the enemy, of the route, size,
  locations, and the patrol’s overall axis of advance. Satellite patrols are given either an area or an axis
  of movement. As with all other patrols, they should have a specific task and purpose. Units have specific
  requirements including—
  Organization
  5-213. At a minimum, the patrol has one base and one satellite unit.
  Size
  5-214. The size of the base unit and satellites is METT-TC dependent. Normally, a satellite unit consists
  of either a squad or a fire team. All units must be able to defend themselves until reinforcements arrive.
  Command and Control
  5-215. The base unit is under the direct control of the senior leader and must have radio communications
  with each of the satellites units. This facilitates control and actions if contact is made. The base unit sets the
  pace and maintains the general direction of the patrol. Controlling multiple small satellite patrols is difficult
  and requires an experienced leader and excellent communications.