DEFMIL139
Supervise a section during offensive operations


Application

This unit describes the skills required to command, lead and manage groups of up to twelve personnel during offensive operations. Offensive operations are characterised by extreme environmental conditions with high levels of risk of serious injury or death from hostile action. Supervision during offensive operations requires supervisors to be incisive in a fluid and demanding environment, to act independently, and to lead by example.

This unit was developed for combat arms personnel involved in the conduct of offensive operations in a deployed operational environment, but is applicable to any individual in this field of work.

The skills and knowledge described in this unit must be applied within the legislative, regulatory and policy environment in which they are carried out. Organisational policies and procedures must be consulted and adhered to.

Those undertaking this unit would typically work as part of a team under direct and/or indirect supervision, but also must be prepared to act independently. They use discretion and judgement, and take responsibility for the quality of their outputs. They would perform routine tasks in a broad range of unpredictable contexts.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to unit at the time of publication.


Elements and Performance Criteria

ELEMENTS

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Elements describe the essential outcomes

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the range of conditions section.

1. Prepare and plan for offensive operations

1.1 Confirm ability of subordinates to complete the task.

1.2 Action personnel administration.

1.3 Receive and clarify orders in accordance with the higher commander’s intent.

1.4 Determine and manage constraints and risks relevant to the task.

1.5 Assemble appropriate resources for the task, and report any shortfalls that limit capability to the chain of command.

1.6 Base planning decisions on a logical process to solve operational problems.

1.7 Conduct battle procedures.

2. Conduct offensive operations

2.1 Prepare and deliver orders.

2.2 Conduct liaison in accordance with operational requirements.

2.3 Coordinate support from outside agencies.

2.4 Provide technical advice to the chain of command or supported agencies.

2.5 Recognise and respond to unexpected situations that require a quick and decisive response.

2.6 Exercise command authority.

2.7 Lead subordinates by example.

2.8 Carry out mission and tasks in accordance with orders.

2.9 Maintain communication with the chain of command as required.

3. Finalise offensive operations

3.1 Conduct debriefs.

3.2 Conduct post activity analysis and make recommendations.

3.3 Recondition, replace or return equipment, stores and ammunition.

3.4 Complete documentation.

3.5 Monitor soldiers’ health and wellbeing and take appropriate action.

Evidence of Performance

Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the candidate must demonstrate evidence of performance of the following on at least one occasion.

applying administrative requirements

applying recognised safety precautions

applying the principles of command

employing equipment tactically

employing weapons tactically

managing resources

navigating in urban and rural environments

preparing reports

performing missions, including at least two of:

ambushes

attacks

battlefield clearances

clearance of routes and areas

collecting information

coordinating direct and indirect fire

detainee handling and evacuation

identifying and indicating section targets

individual camouflage

issuing section fire control orders

patrols

protection at the halt

reconnaissance of areas of interest

searches


Evidence of Knowledge

Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the depth of knowledge demonstrated must be appropriate to the job context of the candidate.

administrative processes

employment of battlespace operating systems

employment of weapons and equipment

Individual Military Appreciation Process

laws of Armed Conflict

liaison requirements

offensive tactics, techniques and procedures

WHS requirements

navigation techniques

resource management

risk control processes

Rules of Engagement

security tactics, techniques and procedures


Assessment Conditions

Competency should be assessed in an actual workplace or in a simulated environment, with access to equipment and infrastructure appropriate to the outcome. Competency should be demonstrated over time to ensure the candidate is assessed across a variety of situations.

Assessors must satisfy the NVR/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors.


Foundation Skills

The foundation skills demands of this unit have been mapped for alignment with the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF). The following tables outline the performance levels indicated for successful attainment of the unit.

Further information on ACSF and the foundation skills underpinning this unit can be found in the Foundation Skills Guide on the GSA website.


Competency Field

Military skills