Recce and Support Battalions

[Petrus]

As far as I know each Pakistani infantry division during the 1965 War had a reconnaissance and support battalion. Does anybody in this forum have any idea how these units were organized and equipped?
I would be very grateful for any info on their TO&Es.

Best regards,
Piotr

[SSAAD]

As far as I know each Pakistani infantry division during the 1965 War had a reconnaissance and support battalion. Does anybody in this forum have any idea how these units were organized and equipped?
I would be very grateful for any info on their TO&Es.

Best regards,
Piotr

We still have R&S elements incorporated with the infantry bns during exs. and obviously war. I need to do some looking up on the TO&E. What I may have would be rather dated though.

[Petrus]

It would be great if you can post any info on the Recce and Support units. What I actually seek is their TO&Es from the 1965 and 1971 wars as well as some general info on these units.

I look forward to hearing from you and thank you in advance for any info.

Best regards,
Piotr

[SSAAD]

Hi Petrus,

I am responding to you with a half baked answer. I still have to get my hands around the TO&E of the Pakstani R&S bns. I can tell you a little bit about their allocation though.

R&S bns are pretty much in the same catagory as a typical Infantry bn in the Pakistan Army. Marked difference (aside from their role) is obviously in their composition. Usually the R&S bns are smaller (400 personnel) vs. typical Inf. bns (600-700). Since the idea is to use these elements in Recce and Support roles, these units are more mobile (more transport available) than their Infantry counterparts. There is also a greater concentration of AT and heavy caliber firepower available to them (in the form of ATGM, RRs, Heavy Mortars 122/88 mm and HMGs).

The allocation per Inf Div is one R&S bn. The bn is usually 4 companies each and during operations, each brigade is allocated 1 company or as required by the brigade/s within the division.

[Petrus]

Thank you, Ssaad, for your answer to my question. It seems very helpful.
Of course, I will be happy if you find more detailed data regarding organization of the R&S battalions.

Best regards,
Piotr