Conditions: In a designated position (other than team leader) in a moving fire team. Standards: React immediately to the fire team leader’s example. Perform the same actions as the fire team leader does in the designated position within the formation.
Performance Steps
1. Fire team formations describe the relationship of the Soldiers in the fire team to each other. Standard fire team formations are the wedge (figure 071-326-0501-1), modified wedge (figure 071-326-0501-2), diamond (figure 071-326-0501-3), and file (figure 071-326-0501-4). a. Fire team wedge (figure 071-326-0501-1). This is the basic fire team formation which— (1) Is easy to control. (2) Is flexible. (3) Allows immediate fires in all directions. (4) Offers all round local security.
Figure 071-326-0501-1. Fire team wedge
STP 21-1-SMCT 18 June 2009 071-326-0501 3-165
Performance Steps b. Fire team modified wedge (figure 071-326-0501-2). When rough terrain, poor visibility, or other factors reduce control of the wedge formation, the sides are closed up to (almost) a single file. When moving in less rugged terrain and control becomes easier, resume your original positions. The modified wedge is also used for extended periods when traveling on roads or trails. The modified wedge— (1) Is easier to control in reduced visibility or rough terrain than are other formations. (2) Offers less flank security than a wedge but more than a file. (3) Masks fires initially to the front and rear for the majority of the team.
Figure 071-326-0501-2. Fire team modified wedge
c. Fire team diamond (figure 071-326-0501-3). This formation is a variation of the wedge. It is most often used when the fire team is operating alone or is the lead security element (point) for a column or file. The fire team
