Lesson 2 Order of Battle Files and References (2025)

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LESSON 2

ORDER OF BATTLE FILES AND REFERENCES

CRITICAL TASK: 301-336-1052

OVERVIEW

LESSON DESCRIPTION:

In this lesson, you will learn to organize and maintain a system of sorting and holding of OB information.

TERMINAL LEARNING OBJECTIVE:

TASKS: Describe the information and procedures required to organize and maintain a system of sorting and holding of OB information.

CONDITIONS: You will be given narrative information from AR 220-15, FM 34-3, FM 101-5, and FM 101-5-1.

STANDARDS: Organizing and maintaining a system of sorting and holding of OB information will be IAW AR 220-15, FM 34-3, FM 101-5, and FM 101-5-1.

REFERENCES: The material contained in this lesson is derived from the following publications:

INTRODUCTION

In this lesson we will discuss OB references and recording devices available to the OB analyst, and a system of filing which facilitates the easy use of information to produce intelligence. The information received and processed by the OB analyst can become very voluminous in a short period of time. The OB analyst must be able to locate this information on short notice and incorporate it into the current OB situation. This requirement necessitates the information be efficiently organized, categorized and cataloged for easy reference and as a basis for comparison and contrast.

The command echelon, the situation, the unit standing operating procedure (SOP), and the availability of time and personnel will influence the extent of the OB recording system. The mission is to provide the records necessary to produce intelligence, not to become bogged down in record keeping. Only those records that contribute to the accuracy and efficiency of the intelligence production effort should be maintained. OB files must be simple, accurate, and complete.

Order of Battle files should accomplish the following:

• Aid OB personnel in cataloging and compiling current OB information.
• Provide media for cross-referencing for identification purposes.
• Provide collated data for evaluation and interpretation.
• Provide an orderly and systematic method of recording essential information.
• Provide for easy retrieval of accurate and current information.

PART A: INTELLIGENCE JOURNAL AND JOURNAL FILES

The intelligence journal is a required recording device. It is governed by AR 220-15. The journal should contain a synopsis of all messagesreceived in the OB section. The entries should be concise and accurate statements of events. The sender of all messages and reports will be noted with his duty position (S2, 1/17 Armor). The commander of your unit may require only one journal be prepared for the headquarters, or he may have each section of the headquarters maintain a journal.

The journal file will contain copies of messages, reports, and orders. These items will be kept to support the entries in the journal. Information in the journal file is kept in chronological order. the journal and journal file are a permanent record. They are usually historical in nature. Generally, atdivision, the G2 operations will maintain the journal for the G2 section. In the all-source intelligence section (ASIS), the junior analyst usually will be assigned to record information in the journal.

Figure 2-1 shows a page from the Intelligence Journal (DA Form 1594). The ACTION TAKEN column will generally indicate to whom the information is disseminated. This is usually indicated by an alphabetic code published by the G1 at division or the S1 of brigade or battalion. It may also include where the information is recorded. For example, the entries in this column for item 2 in Figure 2-1, M, WB, G3, F, C, stand for the situation map (SITMAP), workbook, G3, files and a standard distribution list coded "C."

PART B: INTELLIGENCE WORKBOOK

Intelligence workbooks are used to record information under categories used to prepare a major report. At division and below, the unit workbookmay be tabbed to the paragraphs of the Intelligence Summary (INTSUM). AT corps and higher, it would be tabbed to the paragraphs of the Periodic Intelligence Report (PERINTREP).

The intelligence workbook will be the main part of your filing system at brigade and battalion, There you will not have the room or the time tohave extensive files of any type. The intelligence workbook will give you the information you need for reports and answers to the commander's questions about the enemy situation. (See Figure 2-2.)

PART C: FILES

All or some of the recording aids discussed in this lesson may be used, depending on the existing situation and the command echelon. Otherforms and filing systems may be developed locally and used when required. The OB files required become more extensive at a higher command echelon.

Unit Workbook. A unit workbook is used by the OB analyst or intelligence officer to maintain reported information on specific level organizations, such as divisions or armies. The format of the unit workbook depends upon the structure of the foreign army being monitored and consists typically of a collection of unit worksheets arranged by type of unit or in numerical sequence. (See Figures 2-3 and 2-4.) Analysts may use them as unit workbooks by inserting additional pages as new information is received. The analyst may use just one page to list all units in a particular division. The enemy parent unit listed on the unit worksheet should be the same as the analyst's command level. The analyst normally maintains records for enemy units one level above and two levels below his own. On some special purpose units, three levels or more down are followed as well.

Order of Battle Workbook. The OB workbook aids in sorting, evaluating, and interpreting information and in preparing intelligence reports. It also allows you to see what information is available in each category without having to search through several files. It has no prescribed format. At corps level and higher, the OB workbook is tabbed to conform with paragraphs of the OB annex of the PERINTREP. At division it will normally be tabbed in accordance with the nine OB factors, Figure 2-5 shows this method of tabbing the workbook. See Lesson 1 for the factors.

Figure 2-1. Example of Intelligence Journal (DA Form 1594)

Figure 2-2. Intelligence Workbook

Figure 2-3. Unit Workbook

Figure 2-4. Unit Worksheet from a Unit Workbook

There is no standard format for workbook entries. Information is entered under the appropriate heading or headings as either a completereport or a digest of the original report. All entries contain a journal date and number, in addition to the identity of the source. when appropriate, comments are added after each entry to show the significance of the report when compared with the overall tactical situation. In the "Remarks" column, you may note several items are related or confirmation may be found in another category.

Order of Battle Situation Map. The SITMAP is used in all ASIS from battalion to Department of the Army. In the battalion or brigade, it may be the only recording device used in combat. The SITMAP allows you to see the battlefield. You can make an analysis without having to flip through a workbook of files. You will see where the enemy is and his probable courses of action better and more easily. Information will be transferred to the journal as time permits. (See Figure 2-6.)

As a general rule, enemy units one echelon above and two echelons below the analyst's own command level are plotted by using the appropriate symbols in FM 101-5-1. For example, when at division, enemy regiments and battalions are plotted; and at corps, enemy divisions and regiments will be plotted. Higher units are plotted to the extent practicable. The foregoing information is only a guide. Some special purpose units three levels or more down may be followed as well, and information from three levels down reviewed to identify units two levels down. Peculiarities of enemy organization, the tactical situation, and time and personnel available determine more precisely what will be plotted and omitted on OB maps.

During unconventional warfare, however, it may be necessary to plot enemy/insurgent units down to squad level. This is because there may beno large-sized units operating against friendly forces in these situations.

When posting information on the SITMAP, you will use conventional military symbols as the situation dictates. The time and date of theinformation are entered to the left of each symbol or plotting.

A caption box is placed on the OB SITMAP to identify and explain the OB situation graphics on the map. Although any number of caption boxes may be used, normally three types are necessary--strength, unlocated units, and legend.

Strength Caption Box. The entries in the strength caption box usually consist of a digest of strength computations in numbers of personnel, types of units, weapons, and equipment. These entries are categorized as committed forces, their fire support units, and their reinforcements. (See Figure 2-6.)

Figure 2-5. Order of Battle Workbook

Figure 2-6. OB Situation Map with Caption Box

Since a reconnaissance company is part of an enemy mechanized division, it is considered a reinforcement. If its position is unknown, it islisted as unlocated. Assumptions must be made to portray significant enemy probably capabilities.

Unlocated Units Caption Box. The entries in the unlocated units caption box are important because the OB analyst must be aware of what is not known about the enemy. The unlocated units caption box calls attention to expected units which remain unlocated. A maximum effort must be directed toward establishing the disposition of unlocated units in the AO; these units pose a threat to the accomplishment of the friendly mission.

Legend Caption Box. A legend caption box is included on the OB SITMAP when it becomes necessary to improvise symbols for enemy units. Within this caption box, the exact meaning of each improvised symbol is explained. The conventional symbols need not be noted here.

Overlays. You may have several overlays associated with the SITMAP. These can be:

• Key terrain


• Fortification.


• Fire support.


• Logistics.


• Minefields.

When at brigade or battalion, you may share the SITMAP with the S3. All OB information will be on overlays. Since the S3 will be plottingfriendly information on the same map as you, you will have a better picture of how enemy tactics will affect your unit's mission.

Order of Battle Card. OB card files are used to maintain accurate and complete data on enemy units (See Figure 2-7/2-8). The format of the card is standardized within NATO to facilitate the exchange of information and intelligence among allied forces. OB cards should be maintained at all levels including division and lower when directed by higher headquarters or when necessary. Normally, one card will be maintained on each enemy or other unit in position to affect current operations. (To meet the requirement for more detailed recording and filing of OB intelligence, particularly at higher levels, a supplementary filing system may be maintained. This system generally will be based on the parts of the OB card.)

Figure 2-7. Order of Battle Card (FRONT)

Figure 2-8. Order of Battle Card (Continued)

The OB card will contain the following information:

• Identification (numerical designation, type of unit, and nationality).


• Field post number (FPN).


• Subordination (parent unit and subordinate units).


• Location (place, name and universal transverse mercator (UTM) grid coordinates).


• Combat effectiveness and category (where applicable).

The OB card contains the following optional information:

• Code name (official name assigned by the enemy for convenience or as a cover).


• Honorific title.


• Nickname (unofficial popular name).


• Insignia.


• Commander.


• Unit history.


• Signature equipment (including significant quantities).


• Turret numbers, vehicle registration numbers, or other tactical identification signs.


• Miscellaneous.

Some of the information required will come from established OB handbooks published by corps or higher headquarters.

NOTE: Information that is subject to frequent changes is also recorded on the back of the card (Figure 2-8).

Personality Files. The purpose of these files are to provide reference material used in the development of other OB intelligence. Information on key military figures can be valuable in establishing unit identifications, tactics, and combat effectiveness. The files are kept in alphabetical order. The files contain a biographic sketch of the individual and information obtained from interrogation reports. The card or sheet contains information concerning the individual's name, rank, current assignment, date and place of birth, civilian education, political affiliation, nicknames, and physical peculiarities. Reference is also made to the individual's school, qualifications, awards, decorations, chronology of assignments, and important activities participated in, as well as character traits such as morals, reputation, appearance, and mannerisms. Source and date of information are recorded with each entry.

The personality files also includes information which will aid the commander, G2, and G3 in tactical deception planning and operations. To include habits that make the enemy commander and staff vulnerable to deception, those aspects that present the least likely deception target, the degree of freedom the enemy commander allows his subordinates, the enemy commander's reaction time to new situations, and how the enemy commander's fear of the unknown influences his actions.

Military Installation Files. Military installation files are normally maintained during peacetime by higher echelons to facilitate preparation of installation handbooks. The installation files contain information on location, units assigned, and purpose of an enemy installation. Anexplanatory sheet contains all information that has been collected on each installation. These include the number and types of buildings and their capacities, personnel uniforms and insignia, and major items of unit equipment. (See Figure 2-9.) These files are normally found at corps and higher. Books prepared from these files may be found at division.

Organizational Worksheets. The organizational worksheets provide a convenient method of showing types of units within an armed force. These worksheets depict the complete breakdown of all units from the highest type headquarters to the lowest unit. They include information of personnel and major weapons strengths. Since it is rarely possible to fit all this on a single sheet of paper, several charts are prepared. There is a chart showing the general organization of the major unit and individual charts for each of its subordinate units. Principal weapons and equipment charts are prepared to supplement organizational charts. (See Figure 2-10.)

Strengths. The strength worksheet shown in Figure 2-11 is used to maintain a running numerical tabulation of the enemy's personnel and equipment strengths (enemy losses and known gains). This information is recorded on committed units, fire support units, and reinforcements.

Topical Card. The topical card is designed as an all-purpose form. It is used for any topic designed by the analyst. It is used to record significant data which are not recorded on another form, such as data on new items of enemy equipment or other data which may clarify enemy OB.

Figure 2-9. Military Installation File Sheet

Figure 2-10. Organization worksheet: motorized rifle regiment.

Figure 2-11. Strength worksheet.

The analyst can use a single form as a catch-all for all miscellaneous data, or he can use a separate card for each subject area. Cards should befiled alphabetically by subject. Figure 2-12 is an example of a portion of a topical card.

• Unit. Enter complete unit identification to include the parent organization.


• Date of information. Enter the date-time-group (DTG) that the activity actually occurred.


• Reference. The reference information will enable the analyst to locate the document from which the information is extracted. Enter any information required to identify the source report to include number, date, and the originator. Journal numbers may be used.


• Evaluation. Enter an evaluation of the reliability of the source agency, and the accuracy of the information.


• Type activity/remarks. Enter a brief synopsis of the activity or information.


• Topic. This column is used to identify the basic topic area.

PART D: REFERENCES

Typical OB references currently published are:

OB Handbooks. OB handbooks contain background data including descriptions of a foreign nation's political structure, typical organization of that nation's military establishment, and tactical doctrine applicable to various types of military units. They contain technical data such as the logistics system used and the characteristics of weapons and equipment. The Handbook of Military Forces is largely a historical and capability study of a nation's military forces. OB handbooks are normally published by the Department of the Army.

OB Books. OB books are compilations of current intelligence which show the composition and disposition of the militaryestablishment of foreign nations. They are normally published by higher commands or at the Department of the Army level. Unlike the OB handbooks, they contain established intelligence data on major identified units and their subordinate elements. They may also contain personality data, lists of logistic installations, unit history date, and other OB data. Changes or updated versions normally are disseminated on a regular basis by the publishing headquarters.

Figure 2-12. Topical Card

Installation Handbooks. Ideally, installation handbooks contain complete information concerning every military installation in every city in the country or area of interest. They are useful, particularly during Peacetime, for establishing disposition of forces.

Miscellaneous References. Other publications and periodicals prepared at departmental and area command levels are of value to the OB analysis. These references may deal specifically with OB of any or all phases of combat and strategic intelligence. Civilian organizations under contract to the Department of Defense make special studies on various subjects concerning foreign and enemy military forces. These studies are usually detailed, technical in nature, and provide a wealth of special information not otherwise available.

PART E: COORDINATE REGISTER

The coordinate register is a recording device primarily designed to provide the brigade and lower echelon analyst or intelligence officer with aworkable counterpart to the extensive intelligence files and workbooks maintained at higher echelons. Intelligence data should be organized into related grouping or into systematized forms, so they can be interpreted without time loss. The coordinate register answers these needs. It can also be compact enough to be carried on the person, with the advantage of ready access.

Forms of Coordinate Register. The register most commonly consists of a loose-leaf notebook. Each page of the notebook pertains to a single grid square on the operational map, covering the geographical AO or area of interest. This geographical area should include the enemy area, friendly area, and areas of concern on both flanks.

The pages of the coordinate register are of two types. One type is designed for written entries which describe enemy activities, locations, weapons, and similar items. These entries are preceded by a DTG and map coordinates. If desired, the S2 may add his personal comments or notations to any entry. Figure 2-13 illustrates the composition of this type of page for the coordinate register.

Figure 2-13. Coordinate register with written entries.

The second type of page is designed to represent a single grid square schematically. Entries are plotted on the square in a manner comparable to that used in plotting the enemy SITMAP. This page of the register graphically shows any data applicable to a single grid square. An enlarged square is drawn on the page and entries are made as shown in Figure 2-14.

Use of Coordinate Register. The coordinate register can be used for the following:

Data from the coordinate register can be plotted on a vertical aerial photograph that has been annotated with grid lines. A scale of 1:25,000 orlarger is desirable. By plotting selected OB information on the photo, an analysis of the terrain can be conducted simultaneously with a correlation of information on the enemy. The photo provide an excellent means of briefing commanders down to platoon level on the AO and the enemy situation. Targeting can be done in a more precise manner by using a photo instead of the traditional 1:50,000 map.

Reference. The coordinate register can provide answers to the questions of the S2 and his immediate commander and higherheadquarters.

Maintenance of Coordinate Register. The coordinate register should be reviewed periodically or when unit movement necessitatesaddition of new data and deletion of obsolete data. Timely maintenance of the coordinates register might not be practical in fast-moving situations such as pursuit, delay, and exploitation.

Whenever possible, the register should be maintained on strong semi-transparent paper such as bond paper. The transparency of bond paper issufficient to allow the use of a grid scale underneath the schematic page. This allows a more accurate and rapid plotting of or references to the entries.

Figure 2-14. Coordinate Register with Schematic Entry

(The scale of the schematic page normally is a matter of SOP.) Such standardization assists in dissemination of intelligence data from higher tolower echelons.

For security reasons, the friendly situation is not plotted in the coordinate register.

PRACTICE EXERCISE