gevechtstaken

Gevechtstaken is a Dutch term meaning combat tasks. It refers to the discrete actions that soldiers or security personnel must perform during combat operations or simulated engagements. In military doctrine, gevechtstaken are specified within operation orders, training curricula, or exercise scenarios and are used to describe the sequence of actions needed to achieve a mission while maintaining safety and discipline.

In practice, gevechtstaken cover tasks such as movement to and between positions, securing a sector, detecting and identifying targets, using cover and concealment, engaging threats, providing immediate first aid, communicating with team members and command, and coordinating with support elements. They are designed to be measurable, allowing training evaluators to assess punctuality, accuracy, teamwork, and adherence to safety rules.

The concept supports mission planning by breaking complex operations into manageable, repeatable actions. It is adaptable to different contexts, including combined arms operations, small-unit tactics, and security or counterinsurgency environments. In training, gevechtstaken are practiced through drills, scenarios, and live or simulated fire, and they may be graded against defined standards.

Etymology: gevechtstaken comes from gevecht (combat) and taak (task) in Dutch. Usage varies by organization; some Dutch-speaking forces use the term to describe core combat tasks in manuals and training materials.