Forward operating base

A forward operating base (FOB) is any secured forward operational level military position, commonly a military base, that is used to support strategic goals and tactical objectives.

[2][3][4] A FOB also improves reaction time to local areas as opposed to having all troops on the main operating base.

In its most basic form, a forward operating base consists of a ring of barbed wire around a position with a fortified entry control point, or ECP.

An ECP is a controlled entry and exit point of the FOB and typically has positions to protect personnel against personnel-borne improvised explosive devices (PBIED) and vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIED), plus blast mitigation with standoff protection.

[5] More advanced FOBs include an assembly of berms, concrete barriers, gates, guard towers, pillboxes and bunkers and other force protection infrastructure.