Forty soldiers are typically called a platoon, which is a principal subdivision of a military company, battery, or troop. Commanded by a lieutenant, a platoon generally consists of 25 to 50 men organized into two or more sections or squads, each led by noncommissioned officers. The term platoon has been used in U.S. military manuals since 1779 and, throughout the 19th century, meant half a company.
What is the Size of a Military Platoon?
A platoon usually has 20 to 50 soldiers and is commanded by a lieutenant. It is made up of three or four squads. The platoon is a component of a military company, which includes a headquarters and at least two platoons.
How Does a Platoon Fit Into Larger Military Units?
Military units are organized hierarchically, with progressively smaller units led by officers of progressively lower rank. Here’s how a platoon fits into this structure:
- Squad: The smallest unit, with 7 to 14 soldiers, led by a sergeant.
- Platoon: Consists of 20 to 50 soldiers, made up of three or four squads, and is commanded by a lieutenant.
- Company: Includes 100 to 250 soldiers, composed of two or more platoons, and is commanded by a captain or a major.
- Battalion: Contains 400 to 1,200 troops, formed by two or more companies, and is commanded by a lieutenant colonel.
- Brigade: Consists of 2,000 to 8,000 troops, formed by several battalions, and is commanded by a brigadier general or a colonel.
- Division: Includes 7,000 to 22,000 troops, formed by two or more brigades, and is commanded by a major general.
- Army Corps: Contains 50,000 to 300,000 troops, formed by two to seven divisions and support units, and is commanded by a lieutenant general.
What are Some Other Terms for a Group of Soldiers?
Besides a platoon, several other terms describe groups of soldiers, depending on their size and function:
- Army: A large body of men and women organized for land warfare.
- Battalion: A tactical military organization composed of a headquarters and two or more companies.
- Company: The smallest body of troops functioning as a complete administrative and tactical unit.
- Squad: The smallest unit in an army, containing 7 to 14 soldiers.
- Team: A group of people working together on a task.
- Troop: A group of soldiers, especially in cavalry.
People Also Ask (PAA)
What is the role of a platoon leader?
A platoon leader, usually a lieutenant, is responsible for leading and managing a platoon of 20 to 50 soldiers. Their duties include training, maintaining discipline, and ensuring the welfare of their personnel. The platoon leader also oversees the execution of tactical missions and the coordination of the platoon’s activities within the larger company structure.
How is a platoon organized?
A platoon is typically organized into three or four squads, each led by a noncommissioned officer, usually a sergeant. Each squad consists of 7 to 14 soldiers. The platoon also includes a headquarters element that assists the platoon leader in administrative and logistical tasks.
What is the difference between a platoon and a company?
A platoon is a smaller unit consisting of 20 to 50 soldiers, while a company is larger, comprising 100 to 250 soldiers. A company is made up of two or more platoons and includes a headquarters element for administrative support. The company is commanded by a captain or a major, whereas a platoon is commanded by a lieutenant.
What kind of weapons do platoons use?
Platoons use a variety of weapons depending on their specific role and mission. Typically, they are equipped with individual weapons such as rifles and pistols, as well as crew-served weapons like machine guns and grenade launchers. The weapons are intended to provide close-fire support. The specific types and quantities of weapons can vary based on the platoon’s designation (e.g., infantry, reconnaissance).
In summary, a group of 40 soldiers is called a platoon, which is a key component of military organization, playing a vital role in both tactical and administrative functions.
Would you like to explore the structure of other military units, such as companies or battalions?