Book Description

Field Manual (FM) 90-7, “Combined Arms Obstacle Integration,” is intended for the combined arms commander and staff. It encompasses doctrine established in FMs 5-100, 6-20 series, 71-100, 100-5, and 100-7. The doctrine presented in the following chapters seeks to develop the full potential of obstacles as a component of combat power. Each chapter contains tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP) that take the doctrinal foundation and provide the “How To” connection. Obstacles are any characteristics of the terrain that impede the mobility of a force. Some obstacles, such as mountains, rivers, railway embankments, and urban areas, exist before the onset of military operations. Military forces create other obstacles to support their operations. Commanders use these obstacles to support their scheme of maneuver. When integrated with maneuver and fires, obstacles can create a decisive battlefield effect. Obstacle plans must mature as the commanders' plans mature. This manual initially defines and establishes the principles for obstacle operations then applies them at echelons from corps to company team, concentrating on essential TTPs. Chapter 2 provides the key obstacle terms that will be used throughout the manual. Chapter 3 covers obstacle integration theory. Chapter 4 covers obstacle planning from corps through brigade level. Chapter 5 covers obstacle planning from task force (TF) through company team level. Chapters 4 and 5 build on the foundations in Chapters 1 through 3 and establish echelon- specific TTPs. Chapters 6 through 8 provide considerations for specific types of obstacles. Three appendixes provide the additional tools that facilitate successful planning and execution. Appendix A provides information on individual obstacles. Appendix B addresses the critical activities in reporting, recording, and tracking. Finally, Appendix C describes obstacle resourcing and supply.