MCRP 12-10B.1, page 75

(a) K: Key Terrain. Primary examples of key terrain in the urban environment are ports, airfields, power grids, communication nodes, bridges, government building complexes, or parks. We identify key terrain so that we can better select our defensive positions and also better determine the enemy’s objectives. 1 Villages. Villages often dominate high-speed avenues of approach. If the buildings are constructed of stone, brick, or concrete, providing good protection against both direct and indirect fires, a formidable defense can be constructed (Figure 3-1). Company-sized battle positions can be established in these small villages to block approaches into the larger urban area. Figure 3-1. Village Defense (Chokepoint) 2 Strip Areas. Strip areas are built along roads or down valleys between towns and villages. They afford the defender the same advantages as villages. If effective fields of fire are available, a unit can occupy a few key positions within the strip to create an effective defense. (Figures 3-2A and 3-2B). 3 Towns and Cities. When a small town or city is positioned on a key enemy avenue of approach, a force can defend from the urban area while other forces MCWP 3-35 .3 3-4