Upon electronic contact with an enemy, what is the patrol's required action?

When a patrol establishes electronic contact with an enemy, the required action is to communicate the contact to higher headquarters (HQ). This action is essential for several reasons.

First, informing higher HQ ensures that the command structure is aware of enemy movements or positions, allowing for appropriate planning and response. This communication enables the overall mission to be adjusted based on the new information, which might also involve requesting air support, reinforcements, or additional intel to inform decision-making at higher levels.

Second, holding back on immediate engagement is crucial because the situation can be fluid and more intelligence is needed. Engaging the enemy without proper coordination could lead to confusion or unintended consequences not only for the patrol but for the entire operation. By relaying the information, the patrol maintains a tactical advantage, enabling a coordinated response that maximizes effectiveness while minimizing risks.

In contrast, other options like immediately engaging the enemy without coordination may expose the patrol to unnecessary danger or failure in their mission. Retreating and regrouping could result in lost opportunities for gathering intelligence or effectively engaging the enemy, while ignoring the signals altogether would lead to a lack of situational awareness, potentially allowing the enemy to gain the upper hand.