CHAPTER 6: OPFOR Defensive Operations

INTRODUCTION.

    This chapter provides you with the tactics necessary for the OPFOR to successfully conduct a defense. This chapter does not cover all aspects of the OPFOR’s defensive principles, planning and execution. However, it does provide the critical concepts the OPFOR follows when planning such operations.

6-1 DEFENSIVE PRINCIPLES.

    OPFOR defensive goals include repelling attacks by the BLUFOR, inflicting maximum losses, holding important terrain and objectives and creating the necessary conditions to transition to the offense. The OPFOR employs the following principles when conducting a defense.

• Proper use of terrain

• All around protection

• Mutually supporting fires

• Proper use of reserves

• Camouflage and concealment

    The time to conduct a defensive action and the type of defense the OPFOR executes is dependent upon the primary mission of the OPFOR unit, the unit(s) on the battlefield and its current location in relation to the BLUFOR. Typically, the OPFOR will assume the defense to:

• Consolidate tactical gains

• Await additional resources

• Protect a flank

• Stop a BLUFOR counterattack

• Regroup

• Free up resources for other operations

• Hold key terrain

• Await logistical support

    The OPFOR may, at anytime, conduct a defensive operation. However, the actions of the BLUFOR dictate a shift to the defense. Depending on the proximity of the BLUFOR and the nature of the battle, an OPFOR unit can shift to a defense before battle occurs or during battle, under conditions of direct contact or without contact.