What is Close Quarters Battle (CQB)?
Close Quarters Battle (CQB) is a tactical combat scenario involving short-range engagements, usually within confined spaces such as buildings, ships, or urban environments. In CQB, the combatants are often within very close proximity to each other, requiring fast, coordinated actions, high situational awareness, and precise weapons handling. It is typically associated with military, law enforcement, or specialized security operations.
CQB tactics are focused on quick, decisive actions, with an emphasis on clearing rooms or buildings while minimizing risks to the team and hostages or civilians in the area. The confined nature of these spaces often limits mobility and line of sight, making it essential for operators to use small firearms like handguns or carbines. Teams must also master techniques like stacking (lining up behind each other for room entry), communication, and movement discipline.
Firearms training for CQB includes simulated close-quarter environments where participants practice target identification, threat elimination, and coordination with team members. This type of training is essential for high-stress scenarios, as hesitation or poor decision-making in CQB can have life-threatening consequences.