Fire and maneuver team

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A fireteam, in the United States Army, is one of two elements, normally consisting of 4-5 soldiers apiece, that constitute a squad. Squads are generally split into two fireteams to allow for certain squad-size-element movement and maneuver techniques, such as Bounding Overwatch (where Fireteam A provides cover fire for the advance of Fireteam B; subsequent to Fireteam B's movement the roles will be reversed as Fireteam A advances.) There are also several other small unit movement and maneuver techniques; based on the terrain, time constraints, and the level of opposition expected to be encountered, the Squad Leader will select the most appropriate technique.

Fireteams also generally have designated roles for individual soldiers based on the weapons each soldier is carrying. Generally there will be 1-2 light automatic weapons in the squad (such as the M249 SAW) and possibly one or two soldiers will carry M203 grenade launchers, in addition to the standard loadout of M16 or M4 assault rifles.