What resources do you recommend to study valid but alternative Infantry tactics and techniques?

2020-07-26T11:41:31-04:00

I'm familiar with the basic functioning of small Infantry units in the US Army. I understand the USMC does some things a little bit different, particularly as regards unit organization, and SEALs probably learn some slightly different stuff in their land warfare training. Other countries probably have some more variation in their methods due to budget, culture, or other considerations, but that doesn't mean the methods are necessarily inferior. I'm interested in learning more about other ways of doing things.

As an example, the use of machine guns in an indirect fire role. It is rarely taught, practiced, or used in this military, but I understand that other militaries have used it much more at various times.

What are some good English-language resources for learning this stuff?

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Jul 26 at 2020 11:45 AM

2020-07-26T11:45:34-04:00

Israeli infantry tactics are quite different and have proven effective.
http://www.nbcnews.com/id/3702655/ns/world_news-mideast_n_africa/t/us-employs-israeli-tactics-iraq/#.Xx2k4p5KjIU

U.S. employs Israeli tactics in Iraq

In fighting insurgents in Iraq, the United States is drawing on some of Israel’s methods and experiences in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, including running checkpoints and tracking militants with drone aircraft.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2020 11:52 AM

2020-07-26T11:52:48-04:00

TC 7-100.2 Opposing Force Tactics is really one of the few English language resources that discusses alternate infantry tactics. 100.2 focuses on Russian doctrine mainly. I’ve tried to look up Russian and Chinese doctrine, but they rarely publish anything in English, plus they tend to keep their doctrine a little more close to the chest that the US does.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jul 26 at 2020 12:07 PM

2020-07-26T12:07:45-04:00

I would recommend a book in regards to different counterinsurgency operations, but I don't have a specific book in mind. I recall as an example, Peru solved its insurgency problems by arming villagers who would fix the insurgents, and Peruvian infantry would quickly deploy to kill the insurgents.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 26 at 2020 1:50 PM

2020-07-26T13:50:01-04:00

The Center for Army Lessons Learned site might have some useful pubs. But, I don't know what kind of access you will have now that you are out

Response by Cpl Mark A. Morris made Jul 26 at 2020 2:35 PM

2020-07-26T14:35:20-04:00

I found reading and performing squad tactics in the filed quite different. If you know the basics, the win will come in training. There, you will know your limits and understand that little bitch Murphy.
For me, endurance and a known weapon system is key. Working as a team will give you confidence.
Know yourself and know your enemy. Then, you will never lose. This is not written as such in Marine Corp doctrine. But it is implied.
Keep it low and slow SPC. There should be some young hard charger with a pocket drone these days that will help you see over the trees and brush ahead.

Response by CPL Douglas Chrysler made Jul 26 at 2020 5:49 PM

2020-07-26T17:49:37-04:00

WWI & II both have examples of machine guns used for indirect fire or as artillery. Just seek out the subject "machine guns for indirect fire techniques"

Response by SFC James Cameron made Jul 26 at 2020 9:41 PM

2020-07-26T21:41:32-04:00

The proper use of plunging fires isn’t taught because wsl’s don’t know to employ it. It’s no fault of the individual, but the fighting that received the most emphasis in the GWOT was MOUT then COIN. It’s use was effective in Afghanistan, but the last theater where it could have been employed in earnest was Korea.

The Corps still follows the Regimental system of organization and it works with the smaller force. Also the mission set of the Marine Corps is different than the Army. Though the doctrine parallels for the most part.

The Aussies still teach indirect fires employment from machine guns and have different TTP’s.

British and Australian field manuals are also conveniently available in English.

There is also the SUT book from Robin Sage if you can find one. The problem you’re going to find yourself running into is the reluctance of Commanders to stray from FM 7-8, SH 21-76, or whatever alphabet soup they’re calling it now without sound reasoning.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2020 12:29 AM

2020-07-27T00:29:41-04:00

I think studying other infantry tactics can assist in building knowledge but I will tell you that as an Infantry officer I would never use my MGs as an indirect fire role. We have echelons of fire that start with the 120s and work their way down to the 60MM. At that point you should be starting your direct fire suppression of the objective while you either move to breach or engage the enemy. Plus you would burn far too much ammo. I have seen videos of other countries doing this and I just don't understand the logic beyond just spraying and praying.