Close-quarters combat (CQC)
Close-quarters combat (CQC) or close-quarters battle (CQB) is a close combat situation between multiple combatants involving ranged weapons, typically firearms. It can occur between military units, law enforcement and criminal elements, and in other similar situations [Chambers, p. 191].
In warfare, close-quarters combat usually consists of units or teams of varying size engaging the target or enemies with small arms within a distance of up to 100 meters (110 yards), ranging from hand-to-hand combat to close-proximity gun battles, usually with automatic weapons. In the typical CQC scenario, the attackers try a fast takeover of an enclosed area controlled by the defenders, who usually cannot easily withdraw. Because friendly, enemy, and noncombatant personnel can be closely intermingled and may take too long to safely identify, CQC demands a rapid assault and precise fire, and units that conduct CQC are often specially trained and equipped in close combat tactics, such as police tactical units, counterterrorist units, VBSS teams, special forces, and commando units.
Additionally, CQC is not solely limited to urban areas, structure interiors, or tight spaces, as CQC is merely a close-range firearm battle and may theoretically occur anywhere, such as in and around a structure, aboard a ship, or in dense rainforest.
Armies that often engage in urban warfare operations may train most of their infantry in basic CQC doctrine as it relates to common tasks such as building entry, clearing a room, and using less-lethal grenades [Roger, Ripley, p.16].
Chambers, J. W., (2008), OSS Training in the National Parks and Service Abroad in World War II, South Carolina:CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform. Roger, F., Ripley, T., (2001). The whites of their eyes: close-quarter combat, Washington: Potomac