Which of the following is NOT a purpose of patrol?

• A. Recon
• B. Provide security
• C. Harass enemy
• D. Establish supply routes

Answer: (D)

Patrols are focused on gathering information and shaping the situation for the unit. Reconnaissance is a core purpose, since a patrol looks for enemy positions, movements, terrain features, and obstacles to inform decisions. Providing security means the patrol protects a route, a convoy, or an area to prevent surprise and to keep the main force from being caught off guard. Harassing the enemy involves applying pressure, delaying their actions, and disrupting their operations to degrade their tempo and effectiveness.

Establishing supply routes, however, is a logistics task. It involves planning, securing, and maintaining the routes used to move food, ammunition, fuel, and equipment. That work is done by support elements and engineers, not by a typical patrol, so it isn’t a patrol’s purpose.