This article is not a “be-all” “end-all” article that will solve every ‘tactical’ problem. It is written solely to introduce the concept of formations to those with little experience or knowledge in this area. Theory and Reality are two different things; what works in the classroom will not always work in “life”. Spotter Up will assume “no” responsibility for any use or misuse of information from this article. This article alone will not make the reader an expert in tactics or in firearms nor can it be used as a substitute for PROFESSIONAL TACTICAL TRAINING or WEAPONS TRAINING. Spotter Up advises you to visit our site for training courses with a certified instructor On ALL weapon platforms.

The diamond formation starts with at least 4 “operators”, hence the name. Depending on the layout of the area and the circumstances, a diamond formation can be “tightened” or “opened” as the “operators” position themselves to obtain the best safety, speed and vantage point for their team. The ideal goal is to have 360 degrees of view covered while the team works in unison to ensure each person does not obscure their teammate’s view or firing ability. Distance between “operators” is maintained to minimize casualties.

The Diamond Formation is generally used for moving down hallways; the Serpentine Formation is a relative of the Diamond Formation. The Diamond Formation often tranforms into the Serpentine Formation depending on the width of the passageway travelled and if there are obstructions encountered during movement.

*Operator: Officer/Troop member

(Image from WWW.Af.Mil) A Massachusetts State Police Special Tactical Operations Team monitors as Senior Airman Mark Cayer, Airman 1st Class Ronald Ashley, Airman 1st Class Edwin Torres and Senior Airman John Reed to learn methods for neutralizing an active shooter Aug. 6 at Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass. Massachusetts State Police Special Tactical Operations Team members educated Airmen on moving into and within the threat space using a diamond formation, where each member of the four-man team monitors a quarter of the 360-degree view around them. The Airmen are assigned to the 66th Security Forces Squadron. (U.S. Air Force photo/Rick Berry)

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