Squad:
The smallest groupings in the army structure, squads
are made up of 8 to 11 soldiers and are normally
led by a sergeant.
Platoon: Usually consisting of two to four squads,
platoons are typically led by a lieutenant, with
a senior sergeant second in command.
Company (in the infantry), battery (in the artillery)
or troop (in the cavalry): The company, battery
or troop is made up of three to five platoons and
is typically commanded by a captain. It usually
has a first lieutenant as the second in command
and a first sergeant as the senior non-commissioned
officer.
Battalion: The primary combat maneuver element of
the Army, the battalion or squadron is composed
of four to six companies and is commanded by a lieutenant
colonel with a sergeant major as the senior non-commissioned
adviser. A major acts as the executive officer and
second in command. The battalion is tactically and
administratively self-sufficient and can conduct
independent operations of a limited scope. An armored
or air cavalry unit of similar size to a battalion
is called a squadron.
Brigade: The brigade or regiment is made up of two
to five battalions under the command of a colonel
with a sergeant major as the senior non-commissioned
officer. Armored calvary and ranger units of similar
size to a brigade are called regiments, while special
forces units are known as groups.
Division: Typically made up of three maneuver brigades,
as well combat support brigades, they are commanded
by a major general. The division performs major
tactical operations for the corps and is capable
of sustained operations.
Corps: A corps is made of two or more divisions
commanded by a lieutenant general. At this level,
national intelligence assets are analyzed and command
and control of the whole theater operations are
coordinated.
Army: Armies can be identified as theater armies,
field armies, or army groups. |
