Hallways & Intersections | Pro's Guide to Team CQB

Summary

This episode of 'The Pro's Guide to Team CQB' delves into the tactical complexities of navigating hallways and intersections in close-quarters combat scenarios. It emphasizes the importance of speed, security, and coordination, teaching viewers how to approach doors, handle choke points, and utilize cross-coverage. The guide also covers various intersection strategies, including dog legs and t-sections, ensuring that team members maintain situational awareness and prioritize safety while advancing.

Takeaways

• 😀 Hallways are dangerous choke points in CQB due to their narrow paths and potential for ricocheting bullets.
• ⚠️ Speed is essential in hallways to minimize exposure.
• 🚪 Hallways lead to closed and open doorways, requiring specific tactics for each.
• 📏 Hallway posture involves equal numbers on both sides, with cross coverage for optimal visibility.
• 🚹 The number two man signals the number one man to take rooms without stopping.
• 🔄 Dog legs (90° turns) and intersections are critical points requiring special attention.
• 🛡️ Maintaining security and situational awareness in hallways and intersections is crucial.
• 🚶 Speed and precise footwork are necessary to quickly navigate and clear hallways.
• 🔐 Closed doors are bypassed initially, with open doors taking priority for immediate action.
• 🔁 Continuous coordination and communication are essential for moving through hallways and intersections.

Q & A

Why are hallways considered dangerous in a CQB environment?

Hallways are considered dangerous in a CQB environment because they are choke points with narrow paths offering little cover, making individuals vulnerable to enemy fire and ricochets.

What is the importance of speed when moving through a hallway in CQB?

Speed is crucial when moving through a hallway in CQB to minimize the time spent in a vulnerable position and to quickly reach the next point of cover or action.

What is the concept of 'hallway posture' in CQB?

Hallway posture in CQB refers to having an equal number of assaulters on both sides of the hallway, providing cross coverage for maximum visibility of doors and potential threats.

How should a team handle open and closed doors when approaching from a hallway?

Open doors take priority over closed doors in CQB scenarios. The team should address open doors first, with the number two man providing a squeeze and release to allow the number one man to enter without stopping. Closed doors are annotated for later addressal.

What is the strategy for handling a dog leg turn in a hallway?

A dog leg turn is treated like a corner feed in CQB. The team maintains cross coverage and continuity, with the lead man on each side using cover and giving a squeeze and release to move around the corner.

What is the role of the cell leader in navigating intersections?

The cell leader is responsible for making directional calls in intersections, dictating which way the team should go and ensuring that the team maintains security and direction of travel.

How should a team maintain situational awareness in a hallway?

To maintain situational awareness in a hallway, the team should take mental notes of what they see, including open and closed doors, and be prepared to return to those areas if necessary.

What is the difference between a static entry and a dynamic entry in CQB?

A static entry involves a momentary pause at the door with security checks before breaching, while a dynamic entry is more fluid and continuous, with the team moving quickly and efficiently without stopping.

How does a team prioritize work when entering a room from a hallway?

The team prioritizes security first, ensuring coverage of all potential threat areas before proceeding with the entry. Once security is established, they then focus on the priorities of work within the room.

What are the key considerations when approaching a T-section or intersection in CQB?

When approaching a T-section or intersection, the team must consider the available manpower, the dimensions of the space, and the need to maintain security in all directions while navigating the intersection.

What is the purpose of the 'squeeze and release' technique in room entry?

The 'squeeze and release' technique is used to coordinate the movement of team members during room entry. It ensures that the team maintains continuity and security while allowing for efficient and quick entry into the room.