Tank Platoon - FM 17-30 War Department Field Manual

■ 1. Purpose and Scope. — a. This manual is written as a guide for the tactical training and combat procedure for the individual tank, the tanK section, and the tank platoon, both light and medium. The tactical procedures and methods set forth herein are not to be followed as inflexible rules, as such practice would stifle individual Initiative. The methods of procedure given must be varied to meet the particular situation at hand, b. Key to symbols used in this manual will be found on page 2. ■ 2. Organization. — The tank platoon, both light and medium, consists of five tanks. The platoon is divided into a platoon headquarters consisting of the platoon leader and the crew of his tank, and two sections of two tanks each. ■ 3. Characteristics. — a. The tank is characterized by great mobility, fire power, armor protection, and shock action. These characteristics are possessed in varying degTee by different types of tanks. The characteristics dictate the manner of employment. All types of tanks are limited by their restricting vision devices. b. Light tanks, as compared to medium tanks, have less Are power, lighter armor and armament, greater speed, and better maneuverability. They are particularly fitted for — (1) Feeling out and developing weak spots in the enemy position through which medium tanks may attack. (2) Screening the advance against light enemy resistance. (3) Leading an attack against an unarmored enemy weak In antitank defense, when speed is essential. 4) A fast maneuvering force to exploit the success of other tanks. 5) Maneuver to flank or rear to strike the enemy command posts, communication centers, reserves, and vital installations. (6) Pursuing a defeated enemy. e. Medium tanks, because of their greater fire power, guns of heavier caliber, increased armor protection, and shocking power are used to — (1) Lead an attack against an enemy whose position and strength are known. (2) Support by Are the attack of either light or medium tanks. d. It is essential that tank crew members know the strength and weaknesses of their tank and its weapons. Furthermore, they must know the strength of their weapons as compared to enemy weapons likely to be encountered, ■ 4, Operation. — The tank platoon is the smallest tank battle unit. It normally operates as part of the tank company. However, it may operate as an independent unit as advance, flank, or rear guard or on similar missions. a. Methods. — Tanks operate by surprise, fire and maneuver, and in mass. The violation of these fundamentals will lead to ineffectual effort and perhaps disaster. (1) Surprise. — Surprise is gained by striking the enemy at an unexpected time, from an unexpected direction, with all strength possible. Speed of movement, use of covered approaches, and coordination of fires assist in gaining surprise. Seek to surprise the enemy but do not let yourself be surprised. Give the enemy credit for being as capable as yourself. Do not underestimate his ability. Do not become careless. Expect the unexpected and be prepared for it. (2) Fire and maneuver. — An advancing unit is covered by the fire of weapons in stationary position. This is important as the tank in the open is not only extremely vulnerable but movement, dust, and restricted vision make the locating of new targets extremely difficult. Tanks in defiladed position can quickly locate and promptly bring fire upon hostile weapons that fire upon the advancing tanks. This procedure of fire and movement may be by section, platoon, or company. (3) Mass, — Concentrate effort.

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