United States. Department of Defense

“ Teams infiltrate selected areas by air, ground, water, or stay-behind. While avoiding contact with the enemy and local civilians, these teams observe. They may emplace a variety of unattended sensors and special-purpose equipment to detect, observe, and monitor enemy activities. They perform other specified collection tasks as well. LRS teams are not intended, and lack the capability, to conduct direct-action missions. Their mission of limited reconnaissance and stationary surveillance is different from the missions of most special forces and rangers. ”

“ Teams also have expert information-collection skills, and they know enemy organizations, tactics, and equipment. They are also experts in using communication systems. These skills are attained through individual, institutional, and unit (collective) training programs. (See Appendix A for information on personnel recruitment and selection.)
1-3. ARMY OPERATIONS DOCTRINE The most pressing concern of a corps or division commander engaged in combat is knowledge of the enemy to his front or to his flanks, and how that enemy may affect his mission. ”

“ Teams operating in the corps or division area of interest use highly developed infantry and ranger skills to infiltrate enemy-controlled areas, evade enemy rear-security operations, then exfiltrate with or without assistance. These infantry and ranger skills are needed for survival and to complete the mission. ”

“ To do so, the commander must see well forward and know the areas of operation and interest. He must also know the enemy's capabilities, strengths, location of reinforcements, density of air defense, and activities. This information is obtained through intelligence activities that provide the basis for tactical and operational decisions. Conduct of Army operations is based on timely intelligence from organic and higher sources at corps. Real-time human intelligence information is needed to complement electronic and imagery intelligence systems. ”

“ Because of the communication systems that LRSUs use, and mobility restrictions, LRS teams are not responsive to changes in the mission once deployed.
c. Depth. Depth is measured in time, distance, and resources. The commander uses available time and the depth of the battlefield to employ his forces to defeat the enemy. Depth is the greatest contribution of the LRSUs in Army operations. The units give corps and division commanders the ability to see deep into the enemy's rear. ”

“ The employment ranges for the LRSU missions depend on METT-T, operational tempo, and support considerations. In a fast-paced battlefield environment, the depth of LRSU employment is greater because the area of interest is larger. ”