Leapfrogging (infantry)

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In infantry tactics, leapfrogging also called The Buddy System is a technique for advancing personnel and/or equipment on or past a target area that is being defended by an opposing force that will fire upon attacking force. This technique is taught in U.S. Army Basic Training and reinforced with all unit and advanced training all through a soldier’s career. It can be translated to be used with equipment as well as personnel.

Leapfrogging requires at least two personnel to conduct. The actions require dividing the attacking force into at least 2 parts (for example Team A and Team B). The two groups agree on a signal for roles assignment. For existing units, the signal is often preset and practiced. Team A will redirect or suppress the enemy fire by firing munitions upon the target position while Team B changes positions. The signal is given and the roles of the two teams are switched. Team B will redirect or suppress the enemy fire by firing munitions upon the target position while Team A changes positions. Before changing positions, the moving team will usually identify a location that advances them on the target, has adequate cover to protect the personnel and line of sight to engage the target. There is any number of variations on this technique by having more than 2 teams (with team sizes being as low as one personnel) and having any number of teams in the suppressor or moving role. The leader of the attacking force will often determine the variation based to the size and equipment of the defending force and the distances and frequency of cover positions available. Another variation the suppressing force may not actually fire upon the defending force but observe them in the ready to fire upon they should they threaten the moving force. This is often done in situations where the defending force doesn’t know that the attacking force is there; and it may be possible to conduct part or all of movement without being observed.