Use of Ground and Movement MCQs Quiz | Class 9

Understanding Field Craft: Use of Ground and Movement

Field Craft is the art of using the ground and equipment to the best advantage. It is a fundamental skill for any soldier or NCC cadet, enabling them to operate effectively and survive in the field. This section covers the core concepts of using the ground for protection and moving stealthily.

1. Cover

Cover is any natural or man-made feature that provides protection from enemy fire (bullets, fragments, shells). The primary purpose of cover is to protect you from being hit.

• Cover from Fire: This type of cover can stop bullets. Examples include thick walls, large trees, ditches, mounds of earth, and concrete structures. It is essential for survival during combat.
• Cover from View: This type of cover only hides you from enemy observation but does not stop bullets. Examples include bushes, tall grass, shadows, and camouflage nets. While it doesn’t offer physical protection, it prevents the enemy from seeing you, which is the first step in avoiding being targeted.

Often, a good position offers both cover from fire and cover from view.

2. Concealment

Concealment is the art of hiding oneself and equipment from enemy observation. The goal is to blend in with the surroundings to avoid detection. The key principles of concealment are often remembered with the acronym S-S-S-S-M.

• Shape: Avoid regular or man-made shapes. Break up the outline of your body and equipment.
• Shine: Shiny objects like watches, buckles, or even wet skin can reflect light and give away your position. These must be covered or dulled.
• Shadow: Be aware of the shadow you cast. Stay in existing shadows and avoid creating new ones.
• Silhouette (Skylining): Avoid exposing yourself against the skyline (the line where the ground or buildings meet the sky). A human shape against a plain background is easily spotted.
• Movement: Movement attracts the eye. Move slowly and carefully. If you must move quickly, do it in short rushes from one covered position to another.

3. Principles of Movement

Moving correctly in the field is crucial to avoid detection and reach your objective safely. The type of movement depends on the terrain, visibility, and proximity to the enemy.

• Walking: Used when enemy contact is unlikely. It’s the least tiring method.
• Crawling: Used to move close to the enemy or under low cover.
  • Low Crawl: Used when cover is very low and visibility is good for the enemy. The body is kept flat against the ground.
  • High Crawl: A faster crawl used when there is some cover but not enough to stand.
• Rush (or Dash): A short, quick run of 3-5 seconds from one covered position to the next. It exposes you for a minimal amount of time.
• Night Movement: At night, noise is more important than visual concealment. Move slowly, feel the ground before placing your feet, and listen frequently.

Quick Revision Points

• Cover protects from bullets; Concealment protects from sight.
• Always prioritize cover from fire over cover from view if under attack.
• To stay concealed, avoid Shape, Shine, Shadow, Silhouette, and sudden Movement.
• The ground that cannot be seen by an observer is called ‘Dead Ground’.
• Move from one point of cover to the next. Plan your route before moving.
• Avoid moving along ridges, crests, or skylines.

Practice Questions

1. What is the term for ground that cannot be observed or covered by direct fire from a specific location?
2. List the five ‘S’s of concealment.
3. When would you use a ‘high crawl’ instead of a ‘low crawl’?
4. Why is a lone tree in an open field often a poor choice for cover?
5. Explain the difference between camouflage and concealment.