Close Quarters Combat Tactics
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Urban Warfare Operations course at LearnUNI. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
**Ambush** #
**Ambush**
An ambush is a surprise attack on a unsuspecting enemy, typically from a conceal… #
In Close Quarters Combat (CQC) tactics, an ambush can be used to quickly neutralize an enemy force and gain a tactical advantage. This can be accomplished through the use of cover, concealment, and surprise. The key to a successful ambush is proper planning, execution, and contingency planning. It is important to carefully select the location, choose the right moment to strike, and have a clear escape route.
**Breaching** #
**Breaching**
Breaching is the act of forcing entry into a secured or locked space, such as a… #
In CQC tactics, breaching can be used to quickly gain access to a hostile environment and neutralize any threats. This can be accomplished through the use of explosive breaching charges, mechanical breaching tools, or ballistic breaching methods. The choice of breaching method will depend on the type of security being faced, the location of the breach, and the desired speed and level of surprise.
**Center of Mass** #
**Center of Mass**
The center of mass is the theoretical point in an object where all of its mass i… #
In CQC tactics, the center of mass is often used as a target for firearms or hand-to-hand combat. Striking the center of mass can cause significant damage and incapacitate an enemy. This is because it is typically located in the torso, which contains many vital organs.
**Close Quarters Battle (CQB)** #
**Close Quarters Battle (CQB)**
Close Quarters Battle (CQB) is a type of combat that takes place in a confined o… #
CQB is characterized by close proximity to the enemy, high levels of noise and chaos, and the need for quick decision making and rapid engagement. CQB tactics are designed to quickly neutralize enemy forces and secure the area. These tactics may include the use of firearms, hand-to-hand combat, and breaching.
**Cover and Concealment** #
**Cover and Concealment**
Cover and concealment are two key concepts in CQC tactics #
Cover refers to a protective barrier that can shield a person from enemy fire. This can include walls, barriers, or other solid objects. Concealment, on the other hand, refers to a hiding place that can help a person avoid detection by the enemy. This can include shadows, vegetation, or other camouflaged locations. Both cover and concealment are important for maintaining a tactical advantage in CQC.
**Firearms Training** #
**Firearms Training**
Firearms training is a critical component of CQC tactics #
This training focuses on the safe and effective use of firearms in close proximity to enemy forces. It includes instruction on marksmanship, weapons handling, and tactical movement. Firearms training may also include scenario-based exercises that simulate real-world combat situations.
**Flanking** #
**Flanking**
Flanking is a tactical maneuver that involves attacking an enemy from the side o… #
In CQC tactics, flanking can be used to quickly neutralize enemy forces and gain a tactical advantage. This can be accomplished through the use of cover, concealment, and surprise. The key to a successful flanking maneuver is proper planning and execution, as well as the ability to quickly adapt to changing circumstances.
**Hand #
to-Hand Combat**
Hand #
to-hand combat is a type of combat that involves physical contact between two or more individuals. In CQC tactics, hand-to-hand combat may be used when firearms are not available or when stealth and silence are required. This can include a variety of techniques, such as striking, grappling, and ground fighting. Hand-to-hand combat training may also include the use of improvised weapons, such as knives, batons, or other objects.
**Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs)** #
**Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs)**
Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) are homemade explosive devices that can be u… #
In CQC tactics, IEDs may be used by enemy forces to create obstacles, disrupt movement, or cause damage. IEDs can be made from a variety of materials, including explosives, chemicals, and electronic components. It is important for CQC teams to be aware of the potential for IEDs and to take appropriate precautions to avoid them.
**Low #
Light Training**
Low #
light training is a critical component of CQC tactics. This training focuses on the safe and effective use of firearms and other equipment in low-light conditions. It includes instruction on night vision technology, tactical movement, and communication. Low-light training may also include scenario-based exercises that simulate real-world combat situations.
**Movement Techniques** #
**Movement Techniques**
Movement techniques are a critical component of CQC tactics #
These techniques are designed to allow a team to move quickly and efficiently through a hostile environment while avoiding detection and engagement by enemy forces. This can include the use of cover and concealment, bounding overwatch, and other tactical movement formations. Movement techniques may also include the use of specialized equipment, such as night vision goggles or rappelling gear.
**Point Man** #
**Point Man**
The point man is the lead member of a CQC team #
This individual is responsible for scouting ahead and identifying potential threats or obstacles. The point man must have excellent observation skills, as well as the ability to quickly assess and respond to changing circumstances. The point man may also be responsible for leading the team through difficult or confined spaces, such as stairwells or narrow hallways.
**Room Clearing** #
**Room Clearing**
Room clearing is a tactical maneuver that involves entering and securing a room… #
In CQC tactics, room clearing is often necessary to gain access to a hostile environment and neutralize any threats. This can be accomplished through the use of firearms, hand-to-hand combat, and breaching. Room clearing tactics may include the use of specialized equipment, such as flashbangs or ballistic shields.
**Suppression Fire** #
**Suppression Fire**
Suppression fire is the act of firing weapons at an enemy force in order to pin… #
In CQC tactics, suppression fire may be used to create an opportunity for a team to move or to neutralize an enemy force. This can be accomplished through the use of automatic weapons or other high-capacity firearms. It is important to carefully coordinate suppression fire and to avoid friendly fire incidents.
**Tactical Formations** #
**Tactical Formations**
Tactical formations are a critical component of CQC tactics #
These formations are designed to allow a team to move quickly and efficiently through a hostile environment while maintaining communication and situational awareness. This can include the use of column formations, wedge formations, and other tactical movement formations. Tactical formations may also include the use of specialized equipment, such as night vision goggles or communication devices.
**Urban Warfare** #
**Urban Warfare**
Urban warfare is a type of combat that takes place in an urban or built #
up environment. Urban warfare is characterized by close proximity to enemy forces, high levels of noise and chaos, and the need for quick decision making and rapid engagement. CQC tactics are often used in urban warfare to quickly neutralize enemy forces and secure the area.
**Weapons Handling** #
**Weapons Handling**
Weapons handling is a critical component of CQC tactics #
This training focuses on the safe and effective use of firearms and other equipment in combat situations. It includes instruction on marksmanship, weapons maintenance, and tactical movement. Weapons handling may also include the use of specialized equipment, such as optics or suppressors.
**Weapons Training** #
**Weapons Training**
Weapons training is a critical component of CQC tactics #
This training focuses on the safe and effective use of firearms and other equipment in combat situations. It includes instruction on marksmanship, weapons handling, and tactical movement. Weapons training may also include scenario-based exercises that simulate real-world combat situations.
This glossary provides a comprehensive overview of the key terms and concepts re… #
From ambushes and breaching to tactical formations and weapons training, this glossary covers a wide range of topics that are essential for success in CQC. Whether you are a seasoned military professional or a civilian looking to learn more about CQC, this glossary is a valuable resource that can help you navigate the complex world of urban warfare.