c. Cavalry Units. The basic missions of cavalry units are reconnaissance,
surveillance, security, and use in economy-of-force roles. To accomplish these
missions, cavalry units must possess a higher degree of mobility than related friendly
and enemy combat forces. Cavalry units can fight mounted---in ground or air vehicles or
dismounted.
(1) Armored. Because of its varied capabilities, armored cavalry is an
important information-gathering means. The command and control facilities of armored
cavalry units make them sound structures around which to organize task forces. In
performing their basic missions, cavalry units may reconnoiter, screen or protect larger
units, act as part of the reserve, maintain contact with the enemy or between friendly
forces, defend, delay, conduct raids in the enemy rear, or make harassing or
diversionary attacks.
(2) Air. The air mobility of air cavalry units greatly extends and improves
their reconnaissance, security, and surveillance capabilities and permits the rapid
transport of lightly armed elements with little regard for terrain restrictions. Air cavalry,
in conjunction with armored cavalry elements equipped with lightly armored amphibious
vehicles, provides a special capability for operations in developing areas.
Section IV. COMBAT SUPPORT ELEMENTS
1-16. GENERAL
a. Although combat elements are the primary source of combat power of a
force, CS elements provide essential contributions to the accomplishment of the combat
mission. Combat support is that operational assistance furnished directly to combat
elements and may be a major source of combat power. It facilitates the combat task of
applying pressure against the enemy and is peculiar to the combat mission. Each force
structure includes CS units appropriate to its requirements.
b. The allocation of CS units must be carefully controlled to insure economical
and efficient use. Normally, CS elements are assigned at force level and either
attached to, or placed in support of, subordinate units to perform required tasks.
c. Some units have the sole mission of providing CS, such as field artillery units.
Others may perform both CS and CSS missions; for example, engineer units. For this
reason, distinction between the mission of CS and CSS is not precise. Discussion of
CS elements in succeeding paragraphs is limited to those whose primary mission is CS.
d. At each echelon of command, the plan for employment of the CS must be
integrated with plans for employment of the combat elements. These plans must insure
that CS is both appropriate and responsive to the requirements of the combat elements.
MD0002
1-12