What is close-quarters battle (CQB) and what are its defining characteristics?

Close-quarters battle (CQB), also known as close-quarters combat (CQC), refers to a close combat situation involving multiple combatants. It typically involves ranged (firearm-based) or melee combat and is characterized by its short duration, high intensity, and sudden violence at close range. This type of combat can occur between military units or between law enforcement and criminal elements.

How far back does the practice of close-quarters battle extend in the history of warfare?

Close-quarters battle has existed since the very beginning of warfare. Historically, it manifested as melee combat, the use of ranged weapons at close distances, and the necessity of bayonets.

What role did close-quarters battle play during World War I?

During World War I, close-quarters battle was a significant aspect of trench warfare. Soldiers engaged in intense, close-range combat within narrow trenches to capture or defend these positions.

Who is considered a pioneer of modern close-quarters battle techniques, and where did he develop them?

William E. Fairbairn, Assistant Commissioner of the Shanghai Municipal Police, is considered a pioneer of modern close-quarters battle techniques. He developed these methods while serving in the Shanghai International Settlement.

What martial art did William E. Fairbairn develop, and what was its primary objective?

William E. Fairbairn developed a martial art called defendu. Its primary objective was to be brutally effective and relatively easy for recruits to learn, incorporating both less-lethal and lethal fighting tactics.

What elements were incorporated into Fairbairn's defendu martial art?

Fairbairn's defendu incorporated various elements, including point shooting, firearm combat techniques, and the use of improvised weapons like chairs or table legs, alongside less-lethal and lethal fighting tactics.

How was William E. Fairbairn involved in World War II training?

During World War II, Fairbairn was recruited to train Allied special forces in his methods. He expanded defendu's lethality for military purposes, calling it the Silent Killing Close Quarters Combat method, which became standard training for British special forces.

What textbook did William E. Fairbairn publish regarding close-quarters combat?

William E. Fairbairn published a textbook for CQB training titled Get Tough.

How did U.S. Army officers Rex Applegate and Anthony Biddle contribute to the dissemination of Fairbairn's methods?

Rex Applegate and Anthony Biddle were taught Fairbairn's methods in Scotland and adopted the program for training Allied operatives at Camp X in Ontario, Canada. Applegate later published his work, Kill or Get Killed, in 1943.

Which Allied special forces units received training in Fairbairn's CQB methods during World War II?

During World War II, training in Fairbairn's methods was provided to British Commandos, the First Special Service Force, OSS operatives, U.S. Army Rangers, and Marine Raiders.

Besides Fairbairn's methods, what other military martial arts were introduced elsewhere?

Other military martial arts introduced in different regions included European Unifight, Chinese sanshou, Soviet sambo, and the Israeli kapap and Krav Maga.

When and why did modern close-quarters battle tactics, specifically termed close-quarters battle, begin to be developed by Western counterterrorist special forces?

Modern close-quarters battle tactics were developed in the 1970s by Western counterterrorist special forces units. This development was spurred by events like the 1972 Munich massacre, leading to the creation of tactics focused on quickly and precisely assaulting structures while minimizing casualties.

Which prominent counterterrorist special forces units were involved in developing modern CQB tactics after the Munich massacre?

Prominent units involved in developing modern CQB tactics included the Special Air Service, Delta Force, GSG 9, GIGN, and Joint Task Force 2. These units shared tactics and frequently trained together.

What significant event in 1980 demonstrated the use of CQB tactics by the Special Air Service?

The Special Air Service utilized CQB tactics during the 1980 Iranian Embassy siege, showcasing their effectiveness in hostage rescue scenarios within structures.

By what decade did CQB tactics begin to be adopted by police tactical units?

CQB tactics began to be adopted by police tactical units, such as American SWAT teams, by the 1980s and 1990s.

Why was CQB initially not widely taught to regular infantry forces?

For a considerable period after World War II, CQB was not widely taught to regular infantry because it was primarily considered a hostage rescue tactic, distinct from conventional infantry operations.

What conflicts in the 1990s helped break the special forces monopoly on CQB training for regular infantry?

The experiences of urban warfare and close-quarters battles during the Battle of Mogadishu, the Bosnian War, and the First Chechen War in the 1990s led to CQB tactics being more widely considered and taught to regular infantry.

What were the watershed moments for infantry CQB, and why?

The First and Second Battles of Fallujah during the Iraq War served as watershed moments for infantry CQB. U.S. Marines faced significant challenges clearing buildings without adequate CQB training and equipment, leading to high casualties and damage, highlighting the critical need for better infantry CQB doctrine.

How did the War in Afghanistan influence the teaching of CQB to infantry?

Similar struggles encountered by ABCA Armies in urban warfare during the War in Afghanistan underscored the crucial need for a proper approach to infantry in urban combat, leading to CQB tactics being more widely taught to infantry.

What is the perspective of some special forces units regarding regular infantry being taught CQB, according to Anthony King?

According to scholar Anthony King, some special forces units express disdain towards regular infantry being taught CQB. This sentiment is often linked to organizational politics and competition for budgets, as CQB training requires expensive equipment and facilities.

How did the Battle of Spotsylvania Court House exemplify close-quarters battle?

During the Battle of Spotsylvania Court House in the American Civil War, soldiers were forced into bloody hand-to-hand combat using weapons like swords, knives, bayonets, and even improvised items like sticks and their bare hands, reminiscent of ancient battles.

What happened at the Battle of Isandlwana that led to close combat?

At the Battle of Isandlwana in the Anglo-Zulu War, the fighting turned into close combat when the British forces exhausted their ammunition, ultimately resulting in a Zulu victory.

How did the Pudu Prison siege involve close-quarters combat without firearms?

During the Pudu Prison siege, the Special Actions Unit of the Royal Malaysia Police resorted to hand-to-hand combat using batons and rattan canes after the Malaysian Prime Minister ordered the resolution of the hostage crisis without the use of firearms, leading to the arrest of the prisoners.

Describe the close-quarters engagement during the Battle of Danny Boy in Iraq.

The Battle of Danny Boy involved fierce close-quarter rifle fire and bayonet fighting between British soldiers and Iraqi insurgents. The battle lasted about three hours, resulting in significant insurgent casualties but no British fatalities.

What are some non-combat uses of close-quarters battle tactics by the military?

Military uses of CQB tactics extend to Military Operations Other Than War (MOOTW), which can include peacekeeping or riot control operations.

How do marine naval boarding teams utilize CQB training?

Marine naval boarding teams are specifically trained to search ships and conduct close-quarters battle within them, adapting MOUT (Military Operations in Urban Terrain) tactics for maritime environments.

What basic CQB doctrine might be taught to most infantry units involved in urban warfare?

Armies frequently engaged in urban warfare may train most of their infantry in basic CQB doctrine, covering common tasks such as building entry, room clearing, and the use of different types of grenades.

What is the primary role of Police Tactical Units (PTUs) regarding close-quarters battle?

Police Tactical Units (PTUs) are the primary domestic units that engage in CQB. They are trained, equipped, and organized to handle situations that exceed conventional police capabilities, often involving threats within confined spaces.

How does police CQB doctrine differ based on unit type and mission?

Police CQB doctrine is often specialized; for instance, prison guards might train units for CQB within cells using non-lethal force, while anti-gang units might be trained for CQB against multiple, potentially hard-to-identify enemies.

What is a key difference in the objective of police CQB compared to military CQB?

Unlike their military counterparts who focus on neutralizing threats, police tactical units are primarily tasked with apprehending suspects alive. This influences their training to include arrest procedures and non-lethal takedowns.

What less-lethal weaponry might police CQB units employ?

Police CQB units may be equipped with less-lethal weaponry such as tasers, pepper spray, and riot guns that fire tear gas, rubber bullets, plastic bullets, or beanbag rounds.

In what sectors of private industry might CQB-trained units be found?

Units trained in CQB can be found in private security and private military companies. These teams may respond to incidents at contracted facilities or provide protection for VIPs in potentially dangerous environments like combat zones.

Which private military and security companies are mentioned as having units trained in CQB?

Private military and security companies such as Blackwater and SCG International Risk are known to maintain units trained in CQB or capable of training others.

What does the image caption describe regarding law enforcement training?

The image caption describes Los Angeles Police Department SWAT officers engaging in close-quarters battle during a joint training exercise with the U.S. Navy in 2007.

What activity is depicted in the image featuring a U.S. Army Special Forces soldier?

The image shows a U.S. Army Special Forces soldier preparing to breach a structure during training, illustrating a common scenario for CQB preparation.

What is depicted in the image showing Atlantic City SWAT officers?

The image shows Atlantic City Police Department SWAT officers conducting close-quarters battle training, highlighting the practical application of these skills in law enforcement.

What is another common term for close-quarters battle?

Close-quarters battle is also commonly referred to as close-quarters combat (CQC).

What was the title of the textbook William E. Fairbairn published for CQB training during WWII?

William E. Fairbairn published a textbook for CQB training during World War II titled Get Tough.

What was the title of the book published by Rex Applegate based on Fairbairn's methods?

Rex Applegate published his work based on Fairbairn's methods in 1943, titled Kill or Get Killed.

What specific event in 1972 significantly influenced the development of modern CQB tactics by counterterrorist units?

The 1972 Munich massacre was a key event that spurred Western counterterrorist special forces units to develop modern CQB tactics.

What was the primary goal of CQB tactics developed by counterterrorist units like the SAS and Delta Force?

The primary goal of CQB tactics developed by counterterrorist units was to quickly and precisely assault structures while minimizing casualties among both friendly forces and hostages.

How was close-quarters room clearing described in some infantry manuals as late as the 1990s?

As late as the 1990s, some infantry manuals described close-quarters room clearing using basic methods like throwing a grenade into an area followed by an assault with automatic fire, a technique largely unchanged from decades prior.

What does the acronym MOOTW stand for in the context of military operations?

MOOTW stands for Military Operations Other Than War, which can include missions like peacekeeping or riot control where CQB principles might be applied.

Besides combat, what other skills are police CQB units often trained in due to their law enforcement role?

Due to their role in law enforcement, police CQB units are often trained in arrest procedures, non-lethal takedowns, and standoff negotiation, in addition to combat tactics.

What roles might private security companies with CQB-trained units fulfill?

Private security companies may utilize CQB-trained units to respond to incidents at facilities they operate or to provide protection for VIPs in potentially dangerous environments like combat zones.

What specific event prompted William E. Fairbairn to develop a dedicated auxiliary squad for riot control and aggressive policing in Shanghai?

The 1925 May Thirtieth Movement prompted Fairbairn to develop a dedicated auxiliary squad for riot control and aggressive policing within the Shanghai International Settlement.

What did William E. Fairbairn call his expanded, more lethal version of defendu for military purposes during WWII?

During World War II, William E. Fairbairn expanded defendu's lethality for military purposes, calling it the Silent Killing Close Quarters Combat method.

What specific challenges did U.S. Marines face during the Battles of Fallujah regarding CQB?

During the Battles of Fallujah, U.S. Marines struggled with clearing buildings effectively due to a lack of proper CQB training and equipment, which resulted in significant civilian and allied casualties and damage to the city.

What related training facility is mentioned in the See also section concerning close-quarters battle?

The See also section lists Kill house as a related concept to close-quarters battle, suggesting it is a relevant training environment.

What was William E. Fairbairn's position within the Shanghai Municipal Police?

William E. Fairbairn held the position of Assistant Commissioner within the Shanghai Municipal Police.

How is modern close-quarters battle typically defined by counterterrorist special forces?

Modern CQB is typically defined by Western counterterrorist special forces as tactics involving firearms designed to quickly and precisely assault structures while minimizing friendly and hostage casualties.

Close-quarters Battle Wiki: CQB Unveiled: Mastering Close-Quarters Combat

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Overview

Defining CQB

Close-Quarters Battle (CQB), also known as Close-Quarters Combat (CQC), refers to a close combat scenario involving multiple combatants. This engagement typically utilizes ranged weaponry, such as firearms, or melee combat techniques. It is characterized by its short duration, high intensity, and sudden bursts of violence occurring at extremely close distances.

Contexts of Engagement

CQB scenarios arise in various contexts, including engagements between military units, law enforcement agencies confronting criminal elements, and other similar high-stakes situations. The principles and tactics employed are adapted based on the specific environment and the nature of the threat.

Temporal Dynamics

The defining characteristic of CQB is its compressed timeframe. These encounters are typically resolved rapidly, demanding immediate and decisive action from all involved parties. The close proximity and high stakes necessitate specialized training and equipment.

Historical Evolution

Ancient Roots

The practice of close-quarters combat predates modern warfare, encompassing historical melee engagements and the use of early ranged weapons at close proximity. The necessity of bayonet charges and close fighting in trench warfare during World War I highlighted its persistent relevance.

Fairbairn's Innovations

Modern CQB methodologies trace their origins to William E. Fairbairn's work with the Shanghai Municipal Police. He developed "defendu," a pragmatic martial art focused on brutal effectiveness and ease of learning, incorporating both less-lethal and lethal tactics for aggressive policing and riot control.

During World War II, Fairbairn adapted defendu for Allied special forces, creating the "Silent Killing Close Quarters Combat method." His textbook, Get Tough, influenced training programs, including those led by U.S. Army officers Rex Applegate and Anthony Biddle at Camp X. Applegate's 1943 work, Kill or Get Killed, further disseminated these principles.

Post-War Development

Following WWII, CQB tactics saw limited evolution in standard infantry doctrine for decades. However, the late 1970s marked a significant shift with Western counter-terrorist special forces units developing modern firearm-based CQB strategies after the Munich massacre. Elite units like the SAS, Delta Force, GSG 9, and GIGN shared and refined these tactics.

Urban Warfare Integration

The "special forces monopoly" on CQB began to erode following intense urban combat experiences in the 1990s (e.g., Mogadishu, Bosnian War) and critically during the Iraq War, particularly the Battles of Fallujah. These conflicts underscored the necessity for widespread CQB training among regular infantry, leading to its integration into standard urban warfare doctrine.

Illustrative Engagements

American Civil War

The Battle of Spotsylvania Court House (May 1864) involved periods of intense hand-to-hand combat, reminiscent of ancient battles, where soldiers resorted to swords, knives, bayonets, and even improvised weapons.

Anglo-Zulu War

The Battle of Isandlwana (January 1879) devolved into close combat when British forces depleted their ammunition, resulting in a significant Zulu victory against a modern army.

Pudu Prison Siege

During the Pudu Prison siege (October 1986), the Royal Malaysia Police's Special Actions Unit engaged in hand-to-hand combat using batons and canes, successfully resolving the hostage crisis without resorting to firearms.

Iraq War Engagements

The Battle of Danny Boy (May 2004) near Amarah, Iraq, saw British soldiers engaged in fierce close-quarter rifle fire and bayonet combat against Mahdi Army insurgents. Later, the First and Second Battles of Fallujah highlighted critical needs for infantry CQB training in urban environments.

Application of CQB

Military Operations

Military applications range from peacekeeping and riot control (MOOTW) to specialized operations like naval boarding actions. Marine units train specifically for CQB within ship environments. Hostage rescue units employ highly specialized CQB adaptations tailored to unique environments and political constraints.

Law Enforcement

Police tactical units (PTUs) are primary responders for domestic CQB. They handle threats beyond conventional capabilities, often focusing on apprehension with less-lethal options. PTUs may train military personnel, emphasizing breaching, room clearing, and arrest procedures alongside combat skills.

Prison guards may train for CQB within cells, prioritizing non-lethal control. Anti-gang units might focus on CQB against multiple, potentially unidentified adversaries. PTUs often utilize less-lethal weaponry like tasers, pepper spray, and specialized projectiles (rubber bullets, beanbags) alongside firearms.

Private Industry

Private security firms and Private Military Companies (PMCs) may maintain CQB-capable units. These teams can respond to incidents at contracted facilities or provide VIP protection in high-risk zones, as seen with security details employed by entities like the U.S. Department of State in Iraq. Companies such as Blackwater and SCG International Risk have been noted for their CQB training capabilities.

Related Concepts

Hand-to-Hand

Direct physical confrontation without weapons, a component of CQB.

Kill House

Specialized training facilities designed to simulate CQB environments for practice.

Knife Fight

A specific form of melee combat relevant in certain CQB scenarios.

Mozambique Drill

A rapid two-shot firearm technique followed by a tactical pause, often used in CQB.

Combatives

A broad term for military hand-to-hand combat systems.

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Close-quarters battle Wikipedia page

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Academic Context and Limitations

This document was generated by an AI and is intended for educational and informational purposes, drawing upon publicly available data. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness based on the provided source, it may not reflect the absolute latest developments or nuances.

This is not professional tactical advice. The information presented herein is not a substitute for formal training, expert consultation, or adherence to official doctrine and regulations. Users should consult qualified professionals and official sources for practical application and safety protocols.

The creators assume no liability for errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided.

Close-Quarters Battle

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview ℹ️

💥 Defining CQB

⚖️ Contexts of Engagement

⏱️ Temporal Dynamics

Historical Evolution ⏳

⚔️ Ancient Roots

👮 Fairbairn's Innovations

🚀 Post-War Development

🏙️ Urban Warfare Integration

Illustrative Engagements 📜

🇺🇸 American Civil War

🇿🇦 Anglo-Zulu War

🇲🇾 Pudu Prison Siege

🇮🇶 Iraq War Engagements

Application of CQB 🛠️

✈️ Military Operations

🚓 Law Enforcement

🏢 Private Industry

Related Concepts 🔗

👊 Hand-to-Hand

🏠 Kill House

🔪 Knife Fight

⚡ Mozambique Drill

🛡️ Combatives

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Academic Context and Limitations

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Defining CQB

Contexts of Engagement

Temporal Dynamics

Historical Evolution

Ancient Roots

Fairbairn's Innovations

Post-War Development

Urban Warfare Integration

Illustrative Engagements

American Civil War

Anglo-Zulu War

Pudu Prison Siege

Iraq War Engagements

Application of CQB

Military Operations

Law Enforcement

Private Industry

Related Concepts

Hand-to-Hand

Kill House

Knife Fight

Mozambique Drill

Combatives

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Academic Context and Limitations