Tactical Operations and Small Unit Patrolling 

The Tactical Operations and Small Unit Patrolling course is a program designed to equip service members with the skills and knowledge required for effective small unit operations. Drawing from the tactics of the U.S. Army Rangers and led by a highly experienced Special Forces instructor, this training covers every critical aspect of planning and executing tactical operations in various terrains. Participants will learn how to develop and deliver operations orders, utilize terrain models for mission planning and briefings, and conduct a range of specialized patrolling missions. Additionally, the course covers advanced Ranger tactics for raids, reconnaissance missions, ambushes, and patrol base activities.

Key Topics Covered:

• Operations Orders:

  • Planning, drafting, and briefing complete Operations Orders (OPORD’s).

  • Creating Warning Orders (WARNO’s) and Fragmentary Orders (FRAGO’s) that build to the OPORD creation and adjustments through FRAGO’s.

  • Using terrain models to visualize, plan, and present mission briefings.

• Patrolling Fundamentals:

  • Patrolling techniques across diverse terrain types; wooded areas, rolling open terrain, mountainous terrain, dessert, and jungle.

  • Small unit movement, communication, and security considerations.

  • Covering formations for travel; Traveling, Traveling Overwatch, Bounding Overwatch.

  • Crossing linear and open danger areas.

  • The use of common planning techniques: The Five Principles of Patrolling, METT-TC, Five Point Contingency Plan, and OAKOC.

• US Army Ranger Tactics:

  • Executing Ranger tactics for direct action raids.

  • Conducting reconnaissance (recon) operations for intelligence gathering.

  • Setting up and executing ambushes.

  • Establishing, securing, and managing patrol base activities.

• Field Application:

  • Hands-on practical exercises simulating real-world tactical scenarios.

  • Team-based missions to reinforce small unit cohesion and tactical discipline.

    
    

Instructor Qualifications:

• Special Forces Qualification Course (SFQC) Graduate

• U.S. Army Ranger School Graduate

• 26 years in Special Forces as a Weapons Sergeant and Senior NCO

• 4 years of infantry experience with 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment