MCTP 3-10D — Employment Of Light Armored Reconnaissance Units

MCTP 3-10D governs the planning and employment of light armored reconnaissance operations across the competition continuum.

Search MCTP 3-10D

  • Publication number: MCTP 3-10D
  • Title: EMPLOYMENT OF LIGHT ARMORED RECONNAISSANCE UNITS
  • Date: 24 Mar 2023
  • Proponent: 03000 Operations & Readiness
  • Status: Current

View MCTP 3-10D on armypubs.army.mil


The publication addresses LAR fundamentals, organization, capabilities and limitations, logistical needs, and command and control considerations. Its operational security process considers five steps for evaluating security vulnerabilities, while force protection and combating terrorism address threats, risks, and countermeasures.

Applies to: Marine Corps Tactical Publication (MCTP) 3-10D, Employment of Light Armored Reconnaissance Units, is intended for the Marine air-ground task force (MAGTF) commanders, their staff officers, and other supported units of the ground combat element.

Topics covered

  • Light armored reconnaissance organization
  • Light armored reconnaissance capabilities
  • Command and control
  • Operational security
  • External force protection
  • Combating terrorism
  • Risk assessment

Questions and answers

What does operations security identify and control?

Operations security is defined as “capability that identifies and controls critical information, indicators of friendly force actions attendant to military operations, and incorporates countermeasures to reduce the risk of an adversary exploiting vulnerabilities” (DoD Dictionary). (paragraph 5)

Where does operations security apply?

Operations security is applicable across the competition continuum and within all operational environments, as well as in training. (paragraph 5)

What OPSEC measures are considered during planning?

All OPSEC measures are taken into consideration during all facets of the planning process. (paragraph 5)

How are OPSEC vulnerabilities evaluated during LAR operations?

When conducting LAR operations, OPSEC vulnerabilities are continuously evaluated with respect to the operational environment, host-nation security forces, coalition partner forces, and civilian populations. (paragraph 5)

What do external force protection measures enable the LAR battalion to do?

External force protection measures enable the LAR battalion to mitigate known or potential threats to the battalion, and in some situations to HN forces and civilian populations. (paragraph 5)

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