The beginning of the obstacle system generally starts at the maximum effective range of your longest direct fire weapon (this should be the beginning of the engagment area). Thus, if you possess anti-tank weapons which have an effective range of say 3,000 meters; then the first fixing obstacles should be placed at that distance. These systems should begin firing when targets present themselves. Again, we are attempting to slow down his advance. It is amazing what a few effective direct fire (coupled with indirect fire) shots will do to the momentum of an attack. The formation of the obstacl esystem should be such as it encourages the enemy to maneuver in a line formation versus a column. This provides more targets to engage. As the enemy progresses through the obstacle system, he should encounter more obstacles and more intense fires. The commander should plan indirect fire targets near areas where he believes the enemy may attempt to bypass the obstacle system.

Block – The most intensive effect a Commander may desire is block. The objective of blocking obstacles is to literally stop the maneuver of the enemy. These obstacle systems are very complex, employed throughout the depth and width of the engagement area and are resource intensive (materials utilized, man-hours to construct, etc…). These obstacles are synchronized completely with all fires with the sole purpose of destroying the enemy in that engagement area. The complex of blocking obstacles is firmly tied into the terrain so there are no potential bypasses for the enemy to maneuver around.

The integration of obstacles and fires is critical here. As the enemy moves into the obstacle complex and moves their breaching assets, fires are focused on destroying those vital resources. Throughout the battle position, weapon systems are positioned so they can engage targets effectively in the engagement area. They must take advantage of the effect of the obstacle system. As the enemy becomes bottled up in the engagement area due to ineffective breaching; he should pounded by close air support and artillery. In combination, this should lead to a true “kill zone.”

What Does the Graphic Mean?
In graphics, every line, arrow, etc. has a meaning. Obstacle effects are no different! In case you see these graphics on a mapsheet or overlay, here is what they mean.

The first question that always comes up is: What is relationship between the direction of the arrows and the the direction of the enemy attack? The answer is — the arrows always follow the direction of the enemy attack. With that establsihed, here is what the other symbols for obstacle effects mean.
 

Disrupt – The shorter arrows specify where the enemy is disrupted by obstacles. The longer arrow identifies where there is a bypass for the enemy to maneuver. This bypass area is covered by direct and indirect fires.

Turn – The heel of the arrow indicates the anchor point for the obstacle. The direction of the arrow is the desired turn direction for the enemy to maneuver.

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