What is one critical task of a lead troop in relation to the protected force?

Maintaining contact with the protected force is crucial for a lead troop as it ensures situational awareness and effective coordination during operations. By keeping communication lines open and monitoring the position and status of the protected force, the lead troop can adjust its operations to provide necessary support, respond to changes in the mission, and identify any threats or challenges that may arise. This ongoing contact allows the lead troop to effectively safeguard the protected unit and ensure their safety, promoting cohesion and operational success.

While engaging the enemy, maintaining communication with supporting units, and establishing a defensive perimeter are important tasks, they are secondary to the primary responsibility of keeping close contact with the protected force. Without proper contact, the lead troop cannot effectively fulfill its role in the overall mission.