It may be positioned forward of the primary battle position during limited visibility operations.It is located slightly to the front, flank, or rear of the primary battle position.It covers the same avenue of approach or sector of fire as the primary battle position.The following considerations apply for an alternate battle position ─ (See figure 3-7.) These positions allow the defender to carry out his original task. Alternate positions are those assigned when the primary position becomes untenable or unsuitable for carrying out the assigned task. Primary positions cover the enemy’s most likely avenue of approach into the area. A leader can assign all or some subordinates battle positions within the area of operation. The leader selects his positions based on terrain, enemy capabilities, and friendly capabilities. They may occupy the topographical crest of a hill, a forward slope, a reverse slope, or a combination of all areas. Units as large as battalion task forces and as small as squads or sections use battle positions. A battle positionis a defensive location oriented on a likely enemy avenue of approach. BHL is a designated phase line on the ground where responsibility transitions from the stationary force to the moving force and vice versa.ģ-61. Soldiers conducting a force protection patrol scan the terrain on a hilltop in Logar province, Afghanistan.
