What is the minimum depth of a fighting hole to protect against the crushing action of tanks?

The minimum depth of a fighting hole designed to protect against the crushing action of tanks is 2 feet. This depth is based on the need to provide sufficient coverage for personnel and their equipment from the forces exerted by a tank, which can significantly exceed what a human can withstand. The fighting hole acts as a protective structure, and a depth of 2 feet ensures that individuals within the hole are less likely to be affected by debris or ground displacement caused by the weight of a tank.

In addition to protection from crushing forces, this depth allows for adequate concealment and minimizes the risk of detection by enemy forces, while still being feasible for personnel to dig and maintain. Deeper holes, while they could offer further protection, might be impractical in terms of time and effort required to excavate in certain environments. Thus, 2 feet is the established standard as a balance of protection and operational efficiency.