Post-invasion Iraq, 2003?2005

The post-invasion period in Iraq followed the 2003 invasion of Iraq by a multinational coalition led by the United States, which overthrew the Ba'ath Party government of Saddam Hussein. This article covers the period starting 1 May 2003.

U.S. military patrolling

During the "post-war" Iraq occupation, occupying forces have turned their attention to enforcing order through patrolling. These patrols faced insurgents who seized upon the discovered weaknesses of American vehicles, capitalizing on them with carefully placed and timed explosives. The patrols require armored vehicles capable of stopping at least small arms fire of 7.62mm machine gun rounds along with mandatory external weapons platforms and tracking equipment. Experience is also key in detecting any potentially threatening, out of place car, box or person while following the rules of engagement that dictate a passive-but-ready posture. Patrolling soldiers spend nearly eight hours a day in sector and accrue nearly 100 patrols per month.

Related Topics:
Patrolling - Insurgent - Machine gun - Rules of engagement

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