a. A linkup is a meeting of friendly ground forces. Linkups depend on control, detailed planning, and stealth. Linkup procedure begins as the unit moves to the linkup point. The steps of this procedure are: (1) If using radio communications, the unit reports its location using phase lines, check points, or other control measures. (2) The first unit at the site stops and sets up a linkup rally point about 300 meters from the linkup point. (3) The first unit sends a security team to find the exact location of the linkup point. Linkup Operations 1

(4) The security team clears the immediate area around the linkup point. It then marks the linkup point with the coordinated recognition signal. The unit moves to a covered and concealed position and observes the linkup point and immediate area around it. (5) The next unit approaching the site repeats steps one through three. When its security team arrives at the site and spots the coordinated linkup point recognition signal, it gives the far recognition signal. (6) The first security team responds, and the second team approaches to the first team’s location. The teams exchange near recognition signals. Linkup Operations 2

(7) If the entire unit must linkup, the second team returns to its unit’s rally point and brings the unit forward to the linkup point. The first security team guides the entire second unit to the linkup point. Both teams are integrated into the security perimeter. (8) When more than two units use the same linkup point, the first team leaves a security team at the linkup point. They repeat the linkup procedure as other units arrive. b.Linkup site selection. The leader selects a tentative linkup site by map reconnaissance or a linkup site is designated by higher headquarters. The linkup site should have the following characteristics: (1) Easy to recognize. Linkup Operations 3

(2) Provides cover and concealment. (3) Away from natural lines of drift. (4) Defendable. (5) Provides multiple access and escape routes. c. Coordination Checklist. The platoon leader coordinates or obtains the following information from the unit his platoon will linkup with: (1) Frequencies. (2) Signals and alternates (near and far recognition signals). (3) Codes. (4) Recognition signals, far and near. (5) Fire coordination measures (for example, restrictive fire lines). Linkup Operations 4

(6) Command relationship with the linkup unit. (7) Actions following linkup. (8) Control measures (contact points, checkpoints, phase lines, and others as required). Linkup Operations 5