Convoy Security and Threat Response
Convoys are vulnerable by nature — long, exposed, and often predictable. Security is not just about firepower — it’s about posture, awareness, and spacing that allow the unit to respond without chaos.
This guide outlines how SPECTRE maintains convoy security across all stages of movement.
Security Principles
- Every vehicle has a role in security — whether armed or not
- Security must be active throughout movement — not only during contact
- The lead and rear vehicles are especially critical to convoy protection
- Contact response should be automatic, coordinated, and pre-briefed
Vehicle Security Roles
| Position | Primary Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Lead (Point) | Detect threats, call contact, avoid overexposing the column |
| Middle Vehicles | Maintain spacing, provide sector awareness, support flanks |
| Rear Security | Cover rear approach, serve as emergency break or casualty evac |
See also: Point Concept
If the platform allows turrets or gunners, assign 360-degree arcs of fire across vehicles.
Threat Detection
- Drivers and gunners must actively scan terrain and route
- Look for chokepoints, obstacles, blocked roads, or signs of IED placement
- Use comms to report, not speculate — “Possible obstacle front. Investigating.”
- Lead vehicle should have clearance to halt without creating a pile-up
Contact Response
When contact is made:
- Do not stop blindly. Maintain spacing, move through or halt as briefed
- Return fire only if safe to do so. Avoid fratricide or blocking convoy routes
- If disabled: Report quickly, dismount only with cover, and establish security
- If not in contact: Cover sectors and await orders
Dismount only if necessary — keep the convoy mobile unless deliberately engaging.
See also: Contingency Planning
Ambush Reaction Considerations
| Ambush Type | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| Near ambush | Push through if possible. Return fire only if cover is close. |
| Far ambush | Suppress from mounted positions. Hold movement or maneuver flanks. |
| IED or blocked route | Halt at distance. Scan, reroute, or dismount if necessary. |
If vehicles are split or isolated, regroup at a rally point.
Mounted vs Dismounted Security
- Gunners or open-position passengers cover 360 security
- Dismounts should not begin without purpose — cover, casualty aid, or blocking
- Maintain internal accountability — who is in, who is out, and why
- Assign overwatch roles for halts or holds if prolonged
Security During Halts
- Gunners or VCs must continue scanning
- Stagger vehicles for fields of fire if possible
- Do not group around disabled vehicles unless covered
- Keep the lead and rear vehicles independently maneuverable
Final Thought
Security doesn’t begin when the shooting starts — it begins when the vehicles roll. A convoy that trains for threat response can take contact and keep moving. One that reacts with panic becomes a target.
Contact doesn’t break a convoy — disorganization does.