Extra Dose: The New FM 3-90

Here are some of the big changes in the newly released tactics doctrine:

• merges the 2013 versions of FM 3-90-1 (Offense and Defense Volume 1) and FM 3-90-2 (Reconnaissance, Security, and Tactical Enabling Tasks Volume 2) into a single comprehensive volume on offensive, defensive, and enabling operations

• Created and became the proponent for the "tactical framework" - which is find, fix, finish, and follow through. This framework is how all offensive and defensive operations are described.

• Changed actions on contact from a 5-step process to a new 4-step process – “react”, “develop the situation”, “choose an action”, and “execute and report”.

• Removed defeat as a tactical mission task.

• Made feint and demonstration as variations of tactical deception, instead of variations of an attack.

• Described what are forms of contact and added influence as a form of contact

• Modified, removed, or added over 140 definitions to make it easier to read and understand.

• Added graphics for all offensive and defensive operations.

• Made numerous other changes to enhance readability and understanding

It’s the heart of maneuver warfare doctrine, so get an extra dose at: https://armypubs.army.mil/epubs/DR_pubs/DR_a/ARN38160-FM_3-90-000-WEB-1.pdf

Source: FM 3-90 Ch 2.