What movement technique is generally used when enemy contact is likely?

The preferred movement technique when there is a high likelihood of enemy contact is Traveling Overwatch. This technique allows units to move while maintaining security and readiness for potential engagement. In Traveling Overwatch, one element of the unit moves, while another element remains in a supportive position, typically in a location where it can observe the movement of the first, provide covering fire if needed, and facilitate communication. This method allows forces to advance while keeping a tactical advantage and the ability to respond quickly to threats.

Traveling Overwatch is particularly effective because it maximizes the unit's situational awareness and minimizes the risk of ambush or enemy contact. The element that is overwatching ensures that they can quickly help the moving element, creating a continuous defense and delaying any potential enemy action.

In contrast, when using solely Traveling, the unit moves quickly but does not maintain that level of security, which would leave them more vulnerable to surprise attacks. Bounding Overwatch, while also a valid technique for approaching contact, requires more coordination and may not be as efficient for more mobile operations when enemy contact is merely likely. Armed Patrol generally focuses on establishing presence and deterrence rather than the specific focus on movement in contact situations.