A
unit of 30-40 soldiers, usually commanded by a lieutenant asisted by an NCO. A platoon is formed by at least
two sections or squads (usually 3 or 4) and is smaller than a company. Typically, there are 3-4 platoons in a company. Most platoons are infantry platoons; some
carry other designations such as mortar or heavy weapons platoons. A platoon is the smallest military
unit led by a commissioned officer
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In the British
Army, a platoon is led by a lieutenant or second lieutenant.
It'
s the same in the Canadian Forces and the U.
S. Army.