What is the primary mission of a rifle squad?

The primary mission of a rifle squad is to locate, close with, and destroy the enemy. This encapsulates the fundamental purpose of a rifle squad in combat operations, emphasizing direct engagement with enemy forces. The phrase "locate, close with, and destroy" illustrates the tactical approach taken by the squad to effectively identify threats, maneuver towards them, and eliminate them, which is essential for maintaining the initiative in various combat scenarios.

This mission aligns with the infantry's role in the broader context of ground combat, where direct action is required to achieve victory. The ability to locate targets allows the squad to gather vital information about enemy positions, while closing with the enemy involves tactical advancement and engagement, ultimately leading to the destruction of enemy combatants or capabilities to secure operational objectives.