FIRE SUPPORT
Section IX. PSYCHOLOGICAL OPERATIONS
5-35. GENERAL
Psychological operations are considered a nonlethal means of fire support. Corps PSYOP support normally comprises a PSYOP tactical support battalion with from one to three PSYOP tactical support companies. The battalion provides the corps with a corps PSYOP support element (CPSE). This element provides interface with a psychological operations task force (POTF) or a joint psychological operations task force (JPOTF).
Each tactical support company is normally DS to a division, a separate brigade, or an ACR. Tactical support companies provide product development and tactical dissemination.
5-36. PSYOP MISSIONS
a. Deep operations. At the division level, PSYOP:
Creates a favorable image because of the good treatment of enemy prisoners of war by US and allied soldiers.
Discourages and disrupts opponent operations by spreading doubt, discontent, and distrust among opponent personnel in the targeted area.
Supports strategic PSYOP by furnishing detailed and timely information of local susceptibilities up the chain of command.
Assists in tactical cover and deception operations.
Induces surrender.
Produces "free pass" leaflets and coordinates with friendly commands to ensure leaflets are honored.
Designs programs of psychological actions that are amplified by psychological products.
b. Close operations. At the division level, PSYOP:
Assists in tactical cover and deception operations.
Helps control civilians in the combat area.
Gives information and directions to isolated friendly elements operating in the combat zone.
Discourages and disrupts operations by spreading doubt, discontent, and distrust among opponent personnel.
Lowers enemy morale and efficiency by emphasizing friendly successes and the futility of dying.
Emphasizes danger to opponent of working in an NBC environment.
Provides "free pass" leaflets.
Facilitates the occupation of opponent towns by delivering ultimatums and giving directions for ceasing hostilities.
Publicizes civilian control measures by using broadcasts and printed information.
c. Rear operations. At the division level, PSYOP:
Provides area assessment to identify key leaders and local sensitivities.
Creates a favorable image of US and allied soldiers and leaders to local populace.
Counters hostile propaganda by initiating a well-planned, aggressive, and effective PSYOP program.
Publicizes civilian control measures by using broadcasts and printed information.
Helps control the enemy and civilians in the combat area.
Uses local nationals and interpreters to establish effective communications nets and intelligence sources within the rear area.