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3-21.38 | 131 | Drop Zones
30-GRAM HELIUM BALLOON
Inflate balloon to 75-inch circumference for day and 94-inch circumference for night.
DROP ALTITUDE IN FEET
500 750 1000 1250 1500 1750 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000 4500 ASCENSION
80 01 01 01 01 01 01 01 01 01 01 01 01 TABLE
70 03 03 03 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02 02
ALT
60 04 04 04 04 04 04 04 04 04 04 04 04 TIME (FT)
55 05 05 05 05 05 05 05 05 05 05 04 04 0:10 120
50 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 06 05 05 05 05 0:20 240
45 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 07 06 06 06 0:30 360
40 09 08 08 08 08 08 08 08 08 08 08 08 0:42 500
35 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 09 09 09 09 09 0:50 600
30 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 11 11 11 11 11 1:02 750
25 15 15 15 15 15 15 14 14 14 14 14 14 1:10 830
24 16 16 15 15 15 15 14 14 14 14 14 14 1:17 1000
23 17 17 16 16 16 16 15 15 15 15 15 15 1:48 1250
22 18 18 17 17 17 17 17 16 16 16 16 16 2:10 1500
21 19 19 18 18 18 18 17 17 17 17 17 17 2:34 1750
20 20 20 19 19 19 19 18 18 18 18 18 17 2:56 2000
19 21 20 20 20 20 20 19 19 19 19 19 18 3:43 2500
18 22 22 21 21 21 21 21 20 20 20 20 20 4:31 3000
17 23 23 23 22 22 22 22 22 21 21 21 21 5:21 3500
16 25 25 24 24 24 24 23 23 23 23 22 22 6:09 4000
15 27 27 26 26 25 25 25 25 24 24 24 24 7:00 4500
14 29 29 28 27 27 27 27 27 26 26 26 25
ELGNA
NOITAVELE
13 31 30 30 30 30 29 29 29 28 28 28 27
Table 6-8B. Conversion chart for 30-gram helium (pilot) balloons.
FORWARD THROW
6-36. This refers to the effect of inertia on a falling object. An object that leaves an aircraft moves at the
same speed as the aircraft. The parachutist (or bundle) continues to move in the direction of flight until the
dynamics of gravity and the parachute take effect. The forward throw distance is the distance along the
aircraft flight path traveled by a parachutist or cargo container after exiting the aircraft, until the parachute
fully opens and the load is descending vertically. Forward throw distance for rotary-wing and STOL
aircraft equals half the aircraft speed (KIAS), expressed in meters. Table 6-9 shows the forward throw
distance from a fixed-wing aircraft.
Forward Throw Distances for Fixed-Wing Aircraft
Load C-5 C-130 C-17
Personnel or Door Bundle 229 meters (250 yd) 229 meters (250 yd) 229 meters (250 yd)
Heavy Equipment 668 meters (730 yd) 458 meters (500 yd) 640 meters (700 yd)
CDS N/A 503 meters (550 yd) 663 meters (725 yd)
TTB N/A 147 meters (160 yd) 147 meters (160 yd)
NOTE: To convert yards to meters, multiply yards by 0.9144.
To convert meters to yards, divide meters by 0.9144.
Table 6-9. Forward throw distances for fixed-wing aircraft. |
3-21.38 | 132 | Chapter 6
APPROACH AND DEPARTURE ROUTES
6-37. Ground unit commanders must choose adequate routes for the aircraft to and from the DZs.
They consider—
y Enemy situation and location.
y Obstacles to the aircraft such as television towers or high-tension lines.
y Terrain higher than the drop zone.
y Adjacent air operations and flight routes.
y No-fly areas.
SECTION II. DROP ZONE SUPPORT TEAM
The drop zone support team plans, establishes, and operates day and night drop zones for personnel and
resupply missions flown by fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. The DZST is responsible for accomplishing
the mission on the DZ. In operations without the USAF special tactics team, the DZST will shoulder the overall
responsibility for the conduct of operations on the DZ. The DZST represents both the airborne and airlift
commanders. The DZST leader assumes all the responsibilities normally associated with the USAF STT and
the DZSO.
ORGANIZATION
6-38. The DZST must have at least two members. It might need more, depending on the complexity of
the mission. However, additional team members do not need to be DZSTL qualified. The senior member of
the DZST functions as the team leader. He must hold the rank of NCO (sergeant or above in the US Army,
E-4 or above in the USAF or USMC), an officer, or the civilian equivalent. He must have completed the
appropriate initial training as a DZST member and must satisfy current parent service requirements. To
conduct personnel and heavy equipment drops, he must also hold current jumpmaster qualification.
MISSIONS
6-39. Primary missions of the DZST include wartime CDS drops to battalion or smaller units. They also
make peacetime, visual, and meteorological condition drops, with one to three aircraft, for personnel, CDS,
and heavy equipment. Secondary missions include wartime drops of brigade-sized or larger units,
peacetime drops of C-130, Adverse Weather Aerial Delivery System (AWADS) involving one to three
aircraft, or visual meteorological conditions (VMC) drops of four or more aircraft.
NOTE: Any authorized personnel, other than qualified combat controllers, who perform
DZSTL duties, are restricted to formation airdrops of four or less aircraft. The only exception is
on a military range with active range control.
EQUIPMENT FAMILIARIZATION
6-40. The DZST leader must know how to use equipment to set up, mark, and operate the drop zone.
Depending on the mission, this equipment includes--
ANEMOMETER
6-41. An anemometer is an instrument used to measure wind velocity. There are currently three types of
anemometers approved for use in support of airborne operations: AN/PMQ-3A, DIC and DIC-3, and
turbometer. The AN/ML433A/PM and meters that use floating balls or devices in a tube (sensor-based
devices) are not authorized for use during personnel or cargo airdrop operations. Other anemometers not |
3-21.38 | 133 | Drop Zones
tested and recommended for use should be employed only after a command-initiated risk assessment is
completed. Regardless of the method or device used to measure the wind on the DZ, the airborne
commander must ensure winds fall within the limitations for the type of drop being conducted.
Messages
6-42. The following USAIS messages authorize several commercially available anemometers for use in
drop zone operations:
y DTG 101000Z Mar 94, Subject: Use of Anemometers During Airdrop Operations.
y DTG 212000Z Oct 94, Subject: Use of TurboMeters During Static Line Airdrop Operations
(personnel drops).
AN/PMQ-3A
6-43. This is a handheld or tripod-mounted omnidirectional anemometer (NSN: 6660-00-515-4339). It
is capable of providing wind speed and direction. Because of its size, cost, and weight (10 pounds with all
components), it is not ideal for light Infantry units in operational environments. With the trigger pressed
down, the correctly oriented anemometer gives wind direction in degrees. It can read the wind from 0 to 15
knots on the low scale, and from 0 to 60 knots on the high scale. The anemometer requires recalibration
every six months.
DIC and DIC-3
6-44. One piece, handheld, compact, lightweight, factory-calibrated devices, these commercially
purchased anemometers are approved for use during airborne operations. The DIC and DIC-3 use folding
cups to catch the wind and electronically display wind speed, but not direction. During use, it is critical that
the cups are fully extended to ensure an accurate reading. The device is omnidirectional and does not need
to be oriented with wind direction to provide accurate readings. Post manufacture calibration methods are
not available. The DIC and DIC-3 can depict wind data in knots, miles per hour, kilometers per hour, or
meters per second. The additional features of the DIC-3 are the ability to display peak wind velocity over a
given period, and average wind speed over two time periods. Because the DIC and DIC-3 cannot be
calibrated, they must be checked before use by—
y Ensuring fresh batteries are installed.
y Turning on the anemometer in a no-wind condition, such as in a building or enclosed vehicle. If
any reading other than zero is displayed, the device is unserviceable and must be turned in for
disposal or returned to the manufacturer.
y Conducting a three-anemometer check by comparing the wind reading on three anemometers at
the same time under identical conditions. Discard the anemometer that reads differently then the
other two. This is most accurate if all anemometers are of the same type.
TurboMeter
6-45. This anemometer is stocked under NSN 1670-00-T33-9004. It can also be commercially
purchased. It is a small, lightweight, electronic wind speed indicator. It does not display direction, but
when turned into the wind, it depicts wind data in knots, miles per hour, meters per second, and feet per
second. For the most accurate results, the TurboMeter must be oriented within 20 degrees of the wind
direction, with the wind entering the rear of the meter. Because the TurboMeter cannot be calibrated,
conduct the same preoperation and three-anemometer check as when using the DIC/DIC-3 anemometer. |
3-21.38 | 134 | Chapter 6
VS-17 MARKER PANEL, AERIAL
6-46. The two-sided VS-17 marker panel (NSN 8345-00-174-6865) measures 2 feet wide by 6 feet
long. One side is international orange. The other side of the panel is cerise (red). Six tie-down points
permit attachment to stakes. The short ends in the stowage pocket have three snap fasteners. When folded,
the panel’s olive drab green should show. Pathfinders should display the panel side whose color contrasts
best against the surrounding area.
LIGHT, MARKER, GROUND OBSTRUCTION
6-47. One BA-200 battery powers this “beanbag light” (NSN: 6230-00-115-9996). Interchangeable,
colored plastic domes offer different colors of light. These markers work well in light holes or on the
surface. The ground crew secures the markers with tent pegs or by filling the bottom with sand or rocks. |
3-21.38 | 135 | Drop Zones
RAISED-ANGLE MARKER
6-48. This locally constructed raised-angle marker (RAM) marks the PI on CARP DZs. It consists of
five VS-17 panels. Most rigger units have the ability to construct a RAM (Figure 6-5).
Figure 6-5. Raised-angle marker.
WHELEN LIGHT
6-49. This light attaches to the top of one of two types of batteries originally used with the AN/PRC-77.
To place the light into operation, the user seats it on top of the battery. Different colored domes offer
different colors of light. The unit buys this light locally. The batteries are as follows:
y Dry battery BA-4386/U.
y Lithium battery BA-5598/U. |
3-21.38 | 136 | Chapter 6
M-2 LIGHT BATON
6-50. Two BA-30s power this flashlight (NSN: 6230-00-926-4331). Different lenses (stored in the base
compartment) change the color of the light. This light works best in a light hole or on top of the ground
attached to a tent peg.
AERIAL MARKER, DISTRESS
6-51. This omnidirectional flashing (strobe) light (NSN 6230-00-67-5209) has a very long range. An
optional directional cover snaps on top for tactical operations. Other snap-on caps change color and
function. The black cap, for example, makes the strobe light invisible except to devices that can
“see” infrared.
MIRROR, EMERGENCY SIGNALING, TYPE II
6-52. Pathfinders can use the signal mirror (NSN 6350-00-105-1252) to signal aircraft by reflected
sunlight. The back of the mirror has a set of instructions for proper use and aiming. The signal mirror
works even on hazy days. It works in all directions—not just when the user faces the sun—and the
intended viewer can see it from as far away as the horizon.
PILOT BALLOON
6-53. Pathfinders use the 10- or 30-gram rubber balloon to measure the mean effective wind. They fill
the balloon with helium until the balloon inflates to the specified circumference. National stock numbers
for PIBALs follow:
y NSN 6660-00-663-7933, balloon, meteorological, 10-gram.
y NSN 6660-00-663-8159, balloon, meteorological, 30-gram.
LIGHTING UNIT
6-54. This light (NSN 6660-00-839-4927) attaches to the PIBAL for night operations. Overinflating the
PIBAL compensates for the weight of the light so it can ascend at the same rate as it would without the
light. Water or any other fluid will activate the PIBAL’s wet-cell battery. Below 50 degrees Fahrenheit,
warm water activates the light faster. A 6-inch chem-light may be used as a lighting unit in place of the
wet-cell battery.
DRIFT SCALE
6-55. This slide-type scale uses a 90-degree angle to measure the ascent of the PIBAL. Pathfinders use
the drift scale to compute the mean effective wind. The local Training Support Center produces the drift
scale. Pathfinders can also use the pocket transit (small enough to carry in a pocket), theodolite (NSN
6675-00-861-7939) with built-in clinometer (NSN 6675-00-641-5735), or the separate clinometer
(NSN 6675-01-313-9730).
AN/PRC-119A (SINCGARS) RADIO
6-56. This man-portable radio (NSN 5820-01-267-9482) allows FM radio contact with aircraft. It also
permits navigational aid (NAVAID) for aircraft with FM-homing capabilities. Without power-increasing
accessories, it transmits between 4 and 16 kilometers. |
3-21.38 | 137 | Drop Zones
AN/PRC-113 (HAVE QUICK) RADIO
6-57. This man-portable UHF/VHF AM radio (NSN 5820-01-136-1519) has a quick, jam-resistant,
ECCM transceiver. Pathfinders use it for short ranges—5 to 16 miles—for tactical, ground-to-ground, or
ground-to-air communication.
AN/PRC-117F (ALSO KNOWN AS RT-1796) RADIO
6-58. This man-portable radio can transmit and receive in the 30 to 512 MHz frequency range. Thus, it
can be used for FM, AM, and SATCOM communications. With this one radio system, a Ranger radio
operator can communicate with any other radio system used in Ranger operations. The 117F operates in
three distinct frequency ranges.
y VHF low band – 30 MHz to 89.99999 MHz.
y VHF high band – 90 MHZ to 224.99999 MHz.
y UHF band – 225MHz to 512MHz.
y 110 programmable radio nets.
6-59. The 117F outputs 20 watts of power in the 90 mHz to 400 mHz range and 10 watts in the upper
and lower frequency ranges. The 117F is menu driven. It uses Vinson, ANDVT, Fascinator, and KG-84
embedded encryption. It operates on 26 volts of DC power (VDC), and requires two BA-5590
nonrechargeable batteries. It has one H-250 handset, a VHF blade antenna with a flexible adapter base, a
VHF/UHF flex antenna, a KDU remote-control cable, a wide battery box, and the AN/PRC-117F
transceiver. It uses the AV-2040 satellite antenna used for SATCOM communications. With batteries
installed, the 117F weighs 15.9 lbs.
ASIP RADIO
6-60. The ASIP is an FM, VHF, low-radio system with built-in communications security (COMSEC)
and a built-in test (BIT). Its frequency range is 30,000 to 87,975 MHz. It can be used man-packed or
vehicle-mounted. To power up in manpack configuration requires 13.5 VDC, which is provided by a
single BA5590 battery. In vehicular mode, it operates on 27.5 VDC, which it draws the vehicle's battery.
Four power settings include LOW (200 to 400 meters), MEDIUM (440 meters to 5 kilometers), HI (5 to 10
kilometers), and PA (10 to 40 kilometers). The latter setting (PA) is only used when the ASIP is
vehicle-mounted. It sends data at the rates of 600, 1,200, 2,400, 4,800, or 16,000 bits per second. |
3-21.38 | 138 | Chapter 6
COORDINATION
6-61. The drop zone coordination checklist provides the DZST leader with a tool for coordinating
before the mission without having to communicate with the aircraft (Figure 6-6).
Figure 6-6. Drop zone coordination checklist. |
3-21.38 | 139 | Drop Zones
SUPPORT REQUIREMENTS
6-62. The DZSTL ensure that support requirements for the drop zone control group are coordinated and
in place no later than one hour before TOT. The two support groups are a complete support group and a
partial support group. If the drop zone is 2,100 meters or longer or 20 seconds or more in exit time, or if
more than one aircraft is executing the mission, then a complete control group must be used. If none of
these situations exist, then a partial control group may be used.
CONTROL GROUPS
6-63. Control groups consists of--
y An assistant DZSTL who is DZSTL qualified (complete control group) or not (partial control
group).
y One (partial control group) or two (complete control group) front-line-ambulance (FLA)
qualified medical personnel for personnel drops and heavy equipment. These personnel are not
needed for CDS drops, depending on local rules and regulations.
y One (partial control group) or two (complete control group) wind-measuring devices. One is
located at the control center with the DZSTL. In complete control groups, the second is located
with the assistant DZSTL at the highest location on the drop zone.
y Malfunction officer with camera,who must be a qualified and current rigger IAW AR 59-4.
y Parachute recovery detail with recovery kit.
y Vehicles with drivers.
y Road guards.
y Military Police, if required to control traffic or provide crowd control.
y Boat detail for PE drops only. |
3-21.38 | 140 | Chapter 6
RESCUE BOAT
6-64. A boat detail is required for personnel drops if a water obstacle is within 1,000 meters of any edge
of the drop zone, at least 40 feet wide at the widest point, and at least 4 feet deep at its deepest point. If the
water is at least 4 feet deep, but less than 40 feet wide, a boat detail is not required. However, jumpers
must still use approved life preservers. The DZSTL may declare any body of water an obstacle based on
jumper safety.
6-65. Units may supplement the requirements in this paragraph. When assessing DZ risk for a training
parachute jump, the commander should consider the distance from the water obstacle to the DZ and the
depth and width of the water obstacle.
6-66. The following factors may also enter into risk assessment of a water obstacle: the bottom,
the current, the water temperature, the number of obstacles, the equipment available to reduce the risk,
jumper experience, available or artificial light, and the importance of the DZ to mission success.
Personnel
6-67. The OIC, NCOIC, and boat operators must all be qualified and licensed to operate the boats and
the issued boat motors. Each boat needs one primary and one assistant operator and two recovery
personnel, ideally one of whom is lifeguard qualified and combat lifesaver certified. Everybody in the boat
should be a strong swimmer.
6-68. The DZSTL must--
y Determine if a follow-on assessment of the DZ has been conducted to confirm the
current status.
y Ensure the OIC or NCOIC is fully briefed on the plan. Ensure all boat detail personnel have
been trained and have all necessary equipment available to conduct the mission.
y Read all applicable regulations, FMs, and SOPs. Ensure copies are available throughout the
mission.
6-69. The Jumpmaster must-
y Ensure that, if approved life preservers are used, they have been inspected within the last 180
days and are serviceable.
y Ensure that all jumpers have received training on life preserver wear, fit, and use (to include
manual inflation).
y Ensure all personnel have received prejump training within the 24 hours before drop time, with
special emphasis on unintentional water landings.
Time Requirements
6-70. The OIC or NCOIC ensures that at least two boats must be in place one hour before TOT. At least
10 minutes before TOT, both boats must be in the water with their engines running. Otherwise, a no-drop
situation exists.
Communications
6-71. Two-way communications with the DZSTL must be established at least an hour before TOT, and
maintained throughout the jump operation. |
3-21.38 | 141 | Drop Zones
Coverage
6-72. To ensure that the entire obstacle is accessible to the boat detail, each water obstacle might require
a different type of coverage.
Equipment
6-73. Each recovery boat team needs the following equipment:
y A rubber boat (RB-10) or solid-bodied boat of comparable size, with operable outboard motor.
y Enough fuel and oil to complete the mission.
y Life vest or other floatation device for each boat detail member, and as many extras as they can
carry for jumpers who might not already be wearing a B5 or B7 flotation device (water wings).
y One life ring with attached rope.
y One FM and one handheld radio, each with spare battery.
y One each shepherd’s crook and grappling hook.
y One long backboard for CPR.
y One aid bag with resuscitation equipment.
y One 120-foot long rope and four sling ropes with end-of-line bowlines and snap links.
y Four paddles.
6-74. For night operations, add the following:
y Two operational night vision devices with two sets of batteries.
y One spot light.
Note: Jumpers wearing B5s or B7s need no life jackets.
BASIC EQUIPMENT LIST
6-75. The DZSTL should maintain an inventory of the following basic equipment to support
the mission:
y VS-17 panels.
y Smoke grenades or flares.
y White lights such as an M-2 light baton.
y Air traffic control light (B-2).
y Signal mirror.
y Strobe light.
y Binoculars.
y Anemometer required for personnel and heavy equipment drops, recommended for measuring
the wind before all types of drop.
y Compass.
y PIBAL kit with helium.
y Night vision goggles, for night drops.
y Other equipment as needed, based on premission coordination or unit SOP.
DUTIES OF THE LEADER
6-76. The DZST leader establishes and operates the DZ. He selects the locations of the control center,
PI, and release point. He bears the ultimate responsibility for accomplishing the mission. Specifically,
the leader— |
3-21.38 | 142 | Chapter 6
y Makes sure the DZ reaches full operational status one hour before drop time.
y Conducts premission coordination.
y Opens the DZ through range control. After the mission, accounts for all personnel, air items,
and equipment, then closes the DZ.
y At least one hour before the drop, reconnoiters the DZ on the ground or from the air for
obstacles or safety hazards.
y Establishes communication with departure airfield control officer not later than (NLT) one hour
before drop time.
y Controls all ground and air MEDEVACs.
y Submits postmission reports to the appropriate agencies.
y Operates all visual acquisition aids.
y Ensures no-drop signals are relayed to the drop aircraft.
y Ensures all DZ markings display correctly.
y Establishes a ten-minute window. Ensures pathfinders continuously monitor surface winds,
starting NLT twelve minutes before time on target (TOT). This includes the ten-minute window
plus two extra minutes to relay a no-drop signal, if needed. For example, if TOT is 0700 hours,
then the ten-minute window (plus two minutes) begins at 0648 hours. If at any time during the
ten-minute window the winds exceed allowable limits, the DZST leader relays a no-drop to the
aircraft. Once he calls a no-drop, he establishes a new ten-minute window (without an extra
two minutes). For example, if the winds pick up at 0655 hours, the leader calls a no-drop. The
new ten-minute window counts from the time of the no-drop and extends to the new TOT ten
minutes after that, at 0705 hours.
y Takes surface wind readings from the control center location and from the highest point of
elevation on the DZ when the DZ is 2,100 meters in length or longer, when exit time is 20
seconds or more, or for a multiple aircraft operation.
y Calls a no-drop when surface winds exceed the limits shown in Table 6-10.
Type Of Load Surface Wind (In Knots)
Personnel
Land 13
Water 17
HALO or HAHO
Land 18
Water 20
Equipment without ground disconnects 13
Equipment with ground disconnects 17
CDS using G-12 parachutes 13
CDS or door bundles using G-13 or G-14
parachutes 20
USAF tactical training bundles and simulated
airborne training bundles 25
High-velocity CDS at HAARS No Restrictions
Free drop No Restrictions
For USAF personnel and additional equipment, see AFI 13-217.
Table 6-10. Surface wind limits for airdrops. |
3-21.38 | 143 | Drop Zones
CONTROL CENTER
6-77. The DZST leader controls and observes the airborne operation from the control center.
Pathfinders also take wind readings here. The DZST leader should position all radios, signaling devices,
and appropriate forms at the control center. The type of mission determines the location of the control
center.
PERSONNEL DROPS
6-78. Locate the control center at the PI.
CDS DROPS
6-79. Locate the control center 200 yards to the 6 o’clock of the PI.
OTHER DROPS
6-80. For free drops, heavy equipment, high velocity CDS, HAARS, and AWADS (ceiling less than
600 feet), locate the control center off the DZ where you can see both the approaching aircraft and the PI.
For example, the wood line might obstruct the leading edge. If so, it would not make a good control center
location for these types of drops.
ALL GMRS AND VIRS DZS
6-81. Locate the control center at the RP.
SIGNALS
6-82. When voice control does not work, the ground support team uses visual signals to the aircraft.
Two of the most important visual signals are no-drop and mission cancellation.
6-83. To communicate a no-drop situation to the aircraft, scramble the shape designator and remove the
markings or any other previously coordinated DZ signal.
6-84. The drop aircraft pilot should continue to fly racetracks if coordinated until you give the signal
indicating clear to drop. You can signal no-drop when—
y Winds exceed the maximum limitations for that type of drop.
y You see vehicles moving on the DZ.
y Rotary wing aircraft fly in close proximity to the DZ.
y You see anything else unsafe on the DZ.
6-85. Decide in mission coordination how many no-drop passes the pilot must fly before the mission is
automatically cancelled and the pilot can begin his return to base.
6-86. Cover signals for clear-to-drop also. You may decide to indicate clearance to drop by emplacing
DZ markings. You can also use this means if you have no smoke. If you plan to use smoke, decide what
each color of smoke will mean, but avoid using red to mean clear-to-drop.
6-87. At night, your clear-to-drop signals could include any means coordinated in advance such as
shade-designator illumination, a flashing white light, a green light, and so on. |
3-21.38 | 144 | Chapter 6
6-88. Multiple signals are best. For example, FM and smoke for clear-to-drop, or scrambled code letter
and FM for no-drop (Figure 6-7).
Figure 6-7. Drop zone cancellation and closing markers. |
3-21.38 | 145 | Drop Zones
DETERMINATION OF RELEASE POINT LOCATION
6-89. To determine a release point on a GMRS drop zone, Air Force fixed wing VIRS drop zone, or
Army rotary wing VIRS drop zone, complete the following steps (Figure 6-8):
Figure 6-8. Release point location.
STEP 1--DETERMINE DROP HEADING
6-90. If the drop zone was surveyed and an AF IMT 3823, Drop Zone Survey, was published for the
drop zone, then the DZSTL uses the magnetic course indicated. The drop zone might have been surveyed
as a circular DZ, or a tactical assessment might have been done on it. It might be established as an ARMY
VIRS. In the latter case, the DZSTL determines the drop heading based on the long axis, wind direction,
and obstacles on the approach and departure ends of the DZ.
STEP 2--DETERMINE POINT OF IMPACT
6-91. The PI for personnel is the centerline of the drop zone 100 meters from the leading edge. The PI
for bundles is the centerline of the DZ, but on the leading edge. These points may be adjusted forward, left
or right. For CDS and heavy equipment, the DZSTL uses the surveyed PI locations shown on the
AF IMT 3823. If a tactical assessment was done in lieu of an AF IMT 3823, he uses the standard PI
locations for CDS and heavy equipment from the CARP dummy tree.
STEP 3--DETERMINE WIND DIRECTION AND SPEED
6-92. The DZSTL uses the PIBAL to determine the MEW. If he has no PIBAL, then he must use the
surface wind direction and speed. Once he determines the wind direction and speed, he calculates a D = K
x A x V formula for drift in meters. |
3-21.38 | 146 | Chapter 6
STEP 4--PACE OFF THE DRIFT IN METERS INTO THE WIND
6-93. This should be the reciprocal heading of the PIBAL direction. If a PIBAL was not used, then a
field-expedient means of determining wind direction may be used. If the direction and distance of the drift
are paced into the wood line, the PI is adjusted as necessary, but only forward, left, or right.
Example: 90 knots drop speed = 45 meters forward throw.
GROUND-MARKED RELEASE SYSTEM
6-94. The GMRS offers the DZSTL a way to identify the release point to the drop aircraft without using
a radio. The pilot uses the ground markings to adjust his flight path 100 meters to the right of the corner
panel or light, and parallel to the approach-corner panel or light axis. (This discussion uses the words
“panel” and “light” interchangeably.)
PATTERNS
6-95. Use VS-17 panels to mark the DZ with an inverted “L,” “H,” or “T” pattern. The selected pattern
must be coordinated far in advance.
Inverted “L
6-96. The inverted “L” has four panels:
y The approach panel.
y The corner panel.
y The alignment panel.
y The flanker panel.
“H” and “T"
6-97. Align these other panels with and orient them on the corner panel. Due to side-angle-vision
limitations in the C-5, use the seven-panel “H” and six-panel “T” patterns.
VS-17 PANELS
6-98. Figure 6-9 shows panel emplacement for “H” and “T” patterns (add an inverted “L” figure).
Distances and azimuths are measured from the upper right corner of each panel to the upper right corner of
the next, and from center mass of the selected RP. During daylight airdrops, the marker panels should be
raised at a 45-degree angle from the ground toward the aircraft approach path to increase the aircrew and
jumpmaster's ability to see them. |
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Figure 6-9. Panel emplacement. |
3-21.38 | 148 | Chapter 6
Figure 6-9. Panel emplacement (continued).
Corner Panel
6-99. Set up the corner panel 100 meters to the left of the RP (90 degrees from drop heading). Orient the
long axis of the panel so it is parallel with drop heading.
Alignment Panel
6-100. From the corner panel, move 50 meters in the same direction as above and emplace the alignment
panel. Orient the long axis of the panel so it is perpendicular (90 degrees) from drop heading.
Approach Panel
6-101. Place the approach panel 50 meters in front of the corner panel, on a back azimuth (opposite) from
the drop heading. Orient the long axis of the panel so it is parallel with drop heading. |
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Flanker Panel
6-102. Place the flanker panel 150 meters to the left of the alignment panel, as seen from the drop
heading. Orient the long axis of the panel so it is perpendicular (90 degrees) from drop heading, and
parallel to the alignment panel.
LIGHTS
6-103. At night, replace panels with lights (use one light for each panel). Do not use chem-lights for DZ
markings. For operations requiring security, night DZ markings should be visible only from the direction
of the aircraft’s approach. If flashlights are used, they should be equipped with simple hoods or shields and
aimed toward the approaching aircraft. Omnidirectional lights, fires, or improvised flares may be screened
on three sides or placed in pits with the sides sloping toward the direction of approach. Use directional
lights for the approach, corner, alignment, and flanker. If necessary, you can use the directional light holes
for the far code letter and line up the base light with the corner light. Figure 6-10, page 6-36, provides
construction requirements for Army code letters. Mark the release point with some type of identifiable light
source to distinguish it from all other DZ markings. |
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Figure 6-10. Horizontal clearance and marker construction.
MARKING CONSIDERATIONS
6-104. Place the markings where obstacles will not mask the pilot’s line of sight. The DZ markings must
be clearly visible to the aircrew on approach as early as possible. If conditions preclude placing the
markings at the computed point, the DZSTL may have to adjust the location of the intended PI, ensuring
the new PI location complies with the requirements for the type of airdrop. Advise both the aircrew and
user of the change in PI location. As a guide, use a mask clearance ratio of 1 to 15 units of horizontal
clearance. For example, suppose you must position a DZ marker near a terrain mask, such as the edge of a
forest on the DZ approach. The trees measure 10 meters (33 feet) high. The markings would require 150
meters (492 feet) of horizontal clearance from the trees (Figure 6-11). |
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Figure 6-11. The 15-to-1 mask clearance ratio.
6-105. If any of the GMRS markings fall within a 15-to-1 mask clearance ratio on the approach end of
the drop zone, and it is not feasible to adjust the selected PI, you can place an Army code letter (H, E, A, T)
or a far (marker) panel on the trailing edge of the DZ. However, before doing so, you must coordinate this
during either the DZST or aircrew mission briefing. Using a code letter will distinguish this DZ from other
DZs in the area. The code letter is located at the end of the DZ or where the pilot can see it best, and
aligned with the corner and approach panel, parallel to drop heading.
6-106. During daylight airdrops, the marker panels should be slanted at a 45-degree angle from the
surface toward the aircraft approach path to increase the aircrew and jumpmaster's ability to see them. If
security permits, smoke (other than red) may be displayed at the release point or corner marker to assist in
DZ acquisition.
ARMY VERBALLY INITIATED RELEASE SYSTEM
6-107. The Army VIRS method establishes the release point on the DZ through radio communications. If
tactically feasible, a code letter can mark the RP. However, the aircraft initiates the drop on verbal
command from the ground.
6-108. Emplace a standard Army code letter with VS-17 panels (for daytime operations) at the release
point. Position the base panel of this code letter exactly on the RP. Use code letter H, E, A, or T. Make the
letter at least two panels high by one panel wide (Figure 6-12, page 6-38). |
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Figure 6-12. Example Army VIRS offset.
6-109. Emplace a flank panel to the left of a code letter at a distance of 200 meters or on the edge of the
DZ, whichever is closer. Emplace a far panel 500 meters from the code letter along the drop heading or at
the end of the DZ, whichever is closer. Position each panel with its long axis parallel to the drop heading
and raised 45 degrees back toward the code letter. The DZSTL and radio operator position themselves at
the release point. |
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6-110. At night, replace the panels with lights. Make the code letter at least four lights high by three
lights wide, with 5 meters between each light. To limit ground observation, you may place the code letter,
flank, and far light in holes as follows:
y Place the code letter and far light in directional holes.
y Place the flank light in a bidirectional hole (toward RP and direction of aircraft approach).
y If the RP falls off the DZ, hide the markings, or if the DZSTL cannot see the aircraft, he can
change the parachute drop to a jumpmaster-directed release operation using the wind streamer
vector count (Figure 6-13).
Figure 6-13. Wind streamer vector count.
y If the RP falls off the DZ and the DZSTL cannot, due to the tactical situation, position himself
at the RP, then he can conduct an offset release (late, left, or right). To do this, he determines
how many seconds the aircraft must fly past him before initiating the release. He gives the
aircraft steering corrections to fly over the RP, just as in a standard VIRS. However, when the
aircraft has flown a set distance past the control center, the Pathfinder commands the pilot to
"turn drop heading" or “execute.” In Figure 6-14, the drop speed is 70 KIAS. The RP falls
about 80 meters off the DZ, and the old and new control centers are 118 meters apart.
Multiplying 70 KIAS by .51 equals 36 meters per second of flight. The 3 second offset places
the RP about 118 meters from the control center or code letter. The DZSTL, code letter, and
control center are positioned on the DZ at a distance from the RP that is rounded off to the
nearest second.
Note: These same procedures may be used when the tactical situation prevents the pathfinder
from positioning himself on the release point, but he must remain in a concealed location and
call the VIRS drop offset from his position. |
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AIR FORCE VERBALLY INITIATED RELEASE SYSTEM
6-111. When using USAF VIRS, the DZST leader verbally guides the pilot over the RP to align the
aircraft for the drop. Figure 6-14 shows an example USAF VIRS transmission.
Figure 6-14. Example USAF VIRS transmission.
6-112. The leader uses this method when the tactical situation prevents use of regular markings or when
aircraft pilots could not see regular markings from the air.
6-113. He establishes the VIRS DZ just as he would establish a GMRS or rotary-wing VIRS release
point. (Figure 6-8, page 6-30, shows how to determine the location of the release point.) Unlike those
release points, however, the USAF VIRS DZ RP requires no markings.
6-114. The leader sets up communications with the drop aircraft and at least two FM, VHF, and UHF
radios on the DZ.
6-115. He transmits concise instructions to the aircraft. To align the aircraft on the desired inbound
heading, he gives left and right turns. When the aircraft lines up on course, the pathfinder signals STOP
TURN. About five seconds before the release, or at some other moment (as briefed), he signals
STANDBY.
6-116. When the aircraft reaches the predetermined release point, the pathfinder leader gives an
EXECUTE three times.
6-117. When transmitting the MEW to the aircraft, he makes sure to identify it as such. He states the
altitude used to obtain it. He also provides pertinent details about any erratic winds or wind shears reported
by other aircraft.
AIR FORCE COMPUTED AIR RELEASE POINT
6-118. The DZST leader and DZ party mark the point of impact on a surveyed DZ. The aircraft navigator
computes the release point from the air.
COORDINATION
6-119. Coordinate authentication markings with the aircrew.
CODE LETTER ELEVATION
6-120. Never elevate the panels in the code letter. |
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PERSONNEL BUFFER ZONE
6-121. There is a minimum buffer of 300 yards on the lead, left, and right sides of the DZ, and minimum
buffer of 200 yards on the trail edge of the DZ.
MARKERS
6-122. Markers differ for day and night.
Day Operations
6-123. For day operations (Figure 6-15), pathfinders mark the point of impact with a RAM (Figure 6-5,
page 6-20) and an Air Force code letter (optional), which could be a "J," "C," "A," "R," or "S"
(Figure 6-16). This applies to rectangular drop zones. They use "H" or "O" for circular drop zones. Each
letter must measure at least 35-feet square, and requires at least nine panels flat on the ground.
Figure 6-15. Drop zone placement (day). |
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Figure 6-16. Code letters.
Night Operations
6-124. For night operations (Figure 6-17), mark the point of impact with—
y A code letter (made of at least nine lights) placed at the point of impact.
y One flanker light placed 250 meters to the left and right of the point of impact. If terrain
restricts the light placement to less than 250 meters, the aircrew will be briefed.
y A trailing edge amber light placed 1,000 meters, centerline, from the shape designator at the PI
or at the trailing edge of the surveyed DZ, whichever is closer to the PI (optional). Usually, an
amber rotating beacon is used. |
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Figure 6-17. Drop zone placement (night).
AUTHENTICATION
6-125. Authentication varies for day and night operations.
Day Operations
6-126. During day operations, the DZSTL may authenticate or identify different sites by specifying drop
times, drop headings, or alternating panel colors, or whatever he coordinates.
Night Operations
6-127. During night operations, the DZSTL may authenticate or identify different sites by replacing one
light in the code letter with any color light except white.
OTHER FORMS OF CARP ZONES
6-128. Some other forms of CARP drop zones are random approach, area, and cicular drop zones. The
GUC may also choose to place the point of impact randomly to better serve the mission. |
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RANDOM APPROACH DROP ZONE
6-129. A random approach DZ is a variation of a previously surveyed DZ. It must be big enough for
multiple run-in headings. Any axis of approach may be used as long as the resulting DZ meets the
minimum criteria for the load or personnel being airdropped, and as long as it is within the boundaries of
the original, surveyed DZ. In all cases, the DZSTL performs a safety-of-flight review before using a
random approach DZ.
AREA DROP ZONE
6-130. An area DZ (Figure 6-18) has a start point (A), an endpoint (B), and a prearranged flight path
(line-of-flight) over a series of acceptable drop sites between A and B. The distance between A and B is no
more than 15 nautical miles. Changes in ground elevation within one-half NM of centerline should be no
more than 300 feet. The reception committee can receive the drop anywhere between A and B within
one-half NM of centerline. Once the pilot identifies and locates the prebriefed signal or electronic
NAVAID, he can make the drop.
Note: Area DZs only apply to C-17 operations when crews are SOLL II qualified.
Figure 6-18. Area drop zone.
CIRCULAR DROP ZONE
6-131. The size of the DZ is governed by mission requirements and usable terrain. The PI of a circular
DZ is normally at the DZ center to allow for multiple run-in headings. For specific missions, the PI
location may be adjusted to allow for dropping loads such as sequential heavy equipment (HE) loads or
mass container delivery system (CDS) loads on circular DZs. However, this limits the run-in heading to
only one direction. In all cases, the minimum DZ dimensions for the type and number of loads being
dropped must fit within the surveyed circular DZ. The DSZTL computes the circular drop zone as shown
in Figure 6-19 to determine whether the minimum DZ fits into the surveyed circular DZ. When the PI has
been relocated, he should use Option 2. The DZSTL calculates and records the size of the circular DZ
using Option 1 on the DZ survey form. This prevents confusion and reduces the risk of off-DZ drops if the
circle center point is used as the PI. |
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Figure 6-19. Computation of circular drop zone.
RANDOM POINTS OF IMPACT
6-132. When mission requirements dictate, the DZSTL may use the RPI placement option. He has two
options:
Option 1
6-133. The mission commander notifies the DZSTL at least 24 hours in advance that RPI placement will
be used. When the DZ is established, the DZSTL randomly selects a point on the DZ and establishes that
point as the PI for the airdrop. The DZSTL ensures that the DZ meets the minimum size requirements for
the type of load and that the entire DZ falls within the surveyed boundaries.
Option 2
6-134. The mission commander or supported force commander may request the DZ established with the
PI at a specific point on the DZ. Requests should be made at least 24 hours in advance. The requestor
ensures that the DZ meets minimum size criteria for the type of load, and that the entire DZ falls within the
surveyed boundaries.
MULTIPLE POINTS OF IMPACT
6-135. An MPI airdrop is authorized if everyone involved has been properly briefed. An MPI airdrop is
the calculated dispersal, both laterally and longitudinally, of airdropped loads to predetermined locations
on a DZ. The DZ must meet the minimum size requirements for each PI, and the DZSTL must provide the
precise location of each PI to the aircrews. Offset PIs are surveyed PIs 250 yards left and right of the
surveyed PI. The DZ width must be increased to meet the distance criteria from the DZ edge to the PI. This
manner of placement reduces the effects of wake turbulence across the DZ. |
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Note: Personnel airdrops from C-17s in formation may require offset (laterally displaced) points
of impact.
ASSAULT ZONE AVAILABILITY REPORT
6-136. The Zone Availability Report (ZAR) is a consolidated list of DZs and LZs maintained by HQ
AMC for use by DoD aircraft. The direction and guidance for DZ and LZ operations is AFI 13-217. The
ZAR currently contains both CONUS and OCONUS surveys forwarded by the owning command.
Overseas zones are not controlled by AMC, but will be included, as they are also forwarded by the owning
commands.
6-137. To request survey of a new or existing zone, the commander contacts 720th STG/DOO, Hurlburt
Field FL (DSN 579-6055). He should send new or updated DZ surveys to his nearest wing/group tactics
office for a safety of flight review. He forwards completed DZ, LZ, and HLZ surveys to HQ AMC/DOKT
for inclusion in the ZAR.
6-138. To obtain a completed survey, he can use the fax-on demand system at Scott AFB, IL
(DSN 576-2899), (Com (618) 256-2899). The Internet site available for military (.mil) users is located at
https://amc.scott.af.mil/do/dok/zar.htm.
Purpose Address Phone Internet
To request a survey of a new 720th STG/DOO, DSN 579-6055 NA
or existing zone Hurlburt Field FL
To submit or obtain a HQ AMC/DOKT, 402 DSN 576-2899 https://amc.scott.af.mil/do/dok/zar.htm
completed survey Scott Drive, Unit COM 618 256-2899 (.mil users only)
3A1, Scott AFB, IL
62225-5302
AF IMT 3823, DROP ZONE SURVEY
6-139. A drop zone survey is required for airborne operations. The two types of surveys are tactical and
existing surveyed drop zones. Completing a DZ survey requires a physical inspection of the DZ and
documentation of findings on AF IMT 3823. The using unit may complete the survey. The using unit is the
one whose equipment or personnel is being airdropped. For exercises and joint training operations, users
complete the survey and ensure the DZ meets the criteria for operational and safety standards. The user
physically inspects the DZ before use to identify and evaluate potential hazards to the airdropped personnel
or equipment, to man-made or natural structures, and to ground personnel. The DZST is qualified to survey
the DZ and complete the AF IMT 3823. After completing all blocks that apply, the DZST sends the survey
to the nearest active duty tactics office for review by the appropriate radio operator. The radio operator
then forwards the survey to HQ, AMC TACC/DOOXY, who determines the proper approval authority and
obtains the approval. After approval, the TACC/DOOXY enters the survey into the BBS, where it is then
available for use. These procedures are used to approve surveys for all AMC, ACC, and AMC/ACC gained
aircraft.
SAFETY-OF-FLIGHT REVIEW
6-140. The nearest group tactics office completes a safety-of-flight review on all DZ surveys. This
review ensures that an aircraft can safely enter and leave the DZ. The review includes an in-depth chart
study of the terrain features along the route of flight from the IP to about 4 nautical miles past the DZ
trailing edge. For a complete list of regional group/wing tactics offices see
https://amc.scott.af.mil/do/dok/zar.htm. |
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TACTICAL ASSESSMENT
6-141. During exercises and contingencies, when time or situation prevent the completion of a full DZ
survey, such as to support highly mobile ground forces, the using unit must at least complete a tactical DZ
survey.
6-142. Though using the AF IMT 3823 (discussed later in this chapter) is preferred, it is not required for
a tactical survey. Requests and surveys may be sent electronically. As much information as practical
should be obtained and forwarded for review. The unit sends requests for a final review of the tactical
survey to the designated exercise or contingency airlift, or to the senior representative of the special
operations airlift component.
6-143. When using a tactical DZ (Table 6-11), the airlift unit assumes responsibility for aircraft safety of
flight; the receiving unit assumes responsibility for injury to personnel or damage to equipment or air
items. The DZ size is determined by the mode of delivery, load dispersal, and discussion with the receiving
unit about air item recoverability and load survivability.
Type Drop Aircraft Day or Night Point of Impact *
CDS C-130 Day At least 200 yards/183 meters
Night At least 250 yards/229 meters
C-17 Day At least 225 yards/206 meters
Night At least 275 yards/251 meters
Personnel All USAF fixed-wing Day At least 300 yards/274 meters
aircraft
Night At least 350 yards/320 meters
Heavy Day At least 500 yards/457 meters
Equipment
Night At least 550 yards/503 meters
* Point of impact shown in distance from the leading edge of the drop zone and centerline.
Table 6-11. Favorable conditions for airdrops on tactically assessed DZs.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETION
6-144. This paragraph explains how to complete AF IMT 3823, Drop Zone Survey, shown completed in
Figures 6-20A and 6-20B (pages 6-51 and 6-52). All blocks must be completed. The completer should
write "NA" in blocks that do not apply. When performing a safety-of-flight review on a foreign DZ, the
completer should enter as much information as possible on AF IMT 3823. At a minimum, he must provide
information for blocks 4D, 6A, 6B, 7, 9A-F, and 9H. He should attach a copy of the foreign DZ to the
safety-of-flight review.
Block 1A
6-145. Enter DZ name.
Block 1B
6-146. If the survey will be sent to HQ AMC/DOTK for inclusion in the ZAR database, then enter only
"NA." If the survey is for local use, then the group tactics office should complete this block. |
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Block 2A
6-147. Enter the country where the DZ is located.
Block 2B
6-148. Enter the state, province, or territory.
Block 3
6-149. Enter map series, sheet number, edition, and date of map used.
Blocks 4A1 through 4A4
6-150. Enter the date of the original survey and the surveyor’s name, grade, telephone number, and unit
of assignment. The surveyor signs above his typed name.
Block 4B
6-151. The surveyor enters an "A" (if approving) or "D" (if disapproving) for each drop category.
He must complete all of the printed categories. He uses the blank column for special, additional approvals.
Block 4C
6-152. The ground operations approval authority verifies the survey by signing in this block.
Block 4D
6-153. The chief of group tactics or whoever the OG/CC or equivalent assigns to do so completes a
safety-of-flight review.
Block 4E
6-154. The reviewer's (OG/CC's or ACC's) signature in this block authorizes the aircraft to operate over
the DZ. If operational requirements dictate, he then sends the survey to HQ AMC/DOKT, 402 Scott Drive,
Unit 3A1, Scott AFB, IL 62225-5302, so they can add that DZ to their ZAR database. The group tactics
offices keep DZ surveys.
Blocks 5A through 5E
6-155. Enter the controlling agency responsible for scheduling the DZ. If the DZ is within a controlled or
monitored area, enter the range control data for that location. If the DZ is not located on government
owned property. If applicable, the requesting unit must obtain a land use agreement (LUA) or
memorandum of understanding (MOU), checks the block (5A through 5E) that applies, and attaches a copy
of the memorandum. If the DZ falls within a controlled area, enter the range control data for that location.
Block 6A through 6C
6-156. Enter the DZ dimensions using either meters or yards. For a circular DZ, enter the radius.
Blocks 6D through 6F
6-157. Enter the distance from the leading edge of the DZ to each PI in either meters or yards. |
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Blocks 7A through 7D
6-158. Enter the primary DZ axis in magnetic, grid, and true North, and include the source and date of
the variation data. Use the current year when obtaining the information from a GPS. If DZ is circular,
enter "NA."
Note: List any applicable DZ axis restrictions in the remarks block.
Block 8A through 8D
6-159. Enter the elevation in mean sea level (MSL) for each PI and for the highest point on the DZ.
Block 9A
6-160. Enter the spheroid used to compute coordinates for the DZ. You can find this information on the
map legend. If the GPS is set to operate in WGS-84 mode, then enter "WGS-84" in this block.
Block 9B
6-161. Enter the MGRS datum used to compute the coordinates. You can also find this information in the
map legend. Again, if you are using a GPS, enter "WGS-84."
Blocks 9C through 9E
6-162. Enter the grid zone, Easting, and Northing obtained from the map.
Block 9F
6-163. Place an “X” in the appropriate block.
Block 9G
6-164. Enter the grid zone designator, grid square identifier, and the ten-digit MGRS coordinates.
Briefly describe an easily recognized point on or near the DZ, such as a road intersection, benchmark, or
pond, that can be used by the DZ party to find the PIs. Include a distance and azimuth from this point to the
nearest PI. If needed, continue the point of origin remarks in Remarks.
Block 9H
6-165. Enter the ten-digit MGRS coordinates in local datum and spheroid and the WGS 84
latitude/longitude coordinates to the nearest one-hundredth minute for each indicated point.
Block 9I
6-166. For each corner of the DZ, enter the ten-digit MGRS coordinates in local datum and spheroid and
the WGS-84 latitudinal and longitudinal coordinates to the nearest one-hundredth minute.
Block 10
6-167. Enter the name of the DZ and clearly sketch it manually or using a computer program. Include all
obstacles or prominent features within the DZ boundaries. Add an arrow for magnetic north to orient the
user. Enter the name of the DZ. |
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Block 11
6-168. Comment on pertinent operations here. Describe safety hazards such as towers. Describe all
charted or observed bodies of water and power lines within 1,000 meters of the DZ boundaries.
Block 12
6-169. State whether photographs of the DZ and approaches to it are available, and whether a low-level
route is associated with the DZ. Whoever completes the safety-of-flight review should know this
information and mark this block accordingly. |
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Figure 6-20A. Example completed AF IMT 3823 (front). |
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Figure 6-20B. Example completed AF IMT 3823 (back). |
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AF IMT 4304, DROP ZONE/LANDING ZONE CONTROL LOG
6-170. The AF IMT 4304, Drop Zone/Landing Zone Control Log, Figure 6-21, page 6-57, is a scorecard
for the Air Force. Since the aircrew computes the air release point on the DZ, the Air Force needs
documentation of the crew's performance. The DZSTL ensures this form is complete and accurate based on
the instructions that follow:
DATE
6-171. Enter either calendar or Julian date and year. When time is required, use local or GMT consistent
with the date.
LOCATION
6-172. Enter DZ name.
CCT AND UNIT
6-173. Enter your (the DZSTL's) name and unit.
DZ/LZ CONTROL OFFICER AND UNIT
6-174. Enter the name of the person controlling the DZ.
DROP ZONE SAFETY OFFICER AND UNIT
6-175. Enter the names of the people (you or someone else) who is acting as the DZ safety officer and the
unit safety officer. If you are doing both, then write in your name for both.
LINE NO
6-176. Enter the mission sequence number of each aircraft. Each line number on any given drop zone
mission represents an individual pass over the DZ. If you have a multiple aircraft DZ, you should still use
a separate line number for each aircraft. For example, use three line numbers for a three-ship operation.
Assign a line number to no-drop passes also. Write the reason for each no-drop in remarks.
TYPE ACFT
6-177. Enter the mission design series.
UNIT
6-178. Enter the aircraft's (using) unit.
CALL SIGN
6-179. Enter the call sign of the lead aircraft and, if applicable, formation position numbers.
TYPE MSN
6-180. See the legend for abbreviations of the types of missions. |
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ETA
6-181. Enter the estimated time of arrival, estimated TOT, or S3 air brief. Use the same unit of time
throughout the form.
ATA/ATD
6-182. Enter the actual time of each pass or the actual time of departure.
STRIKE REPORT
6-183. The strike report yards or clock is the actual purpose of this form. Observe the first
parachute-suspended item from the control center, and then determine the distance in yards and the clock
direction relative to the PI. Use 12 o'clock as the magnetic drop heading. If the first parachute lands within
25 yards of the PI, then write "PI" here to indicate a PI strike. If you were unable to maintain visual contact
with the first parachute, especially during a multiple aircraft operation, then score the drop "S"
(satisfactory) or "U" (unsatisfactory). If 90 percent of the parachutes land on the DZ, score the drop as
satisfactory. If less than 90 percent hit the DZ, score it unsatisfactory. If you maintain radio
communications with the drop aircraft, then relay strike reports to them so they can adjust their subsequent
passes accordingly.
YDS
6-184. If the first jumper, container, or pallet lands within 25 yards of the PI, write "PI." If it lands farther
from the PI, enter the distance from the PI in yards.
CLOCK
6-185. Use the direction of flight as 12 o’clock and its back azimuth as 6 o’clock. Estimate the direction
from the PI to the first jumper, container, or pallet. If you can, enter the actual measurement.
LZ
6-186. Mark the “S” (satisfactory) box if a landing occurred in the first 500 feet of the LZ. If the aircraft
had to go around again, if the drop fell short of the touchdown zone, or was more than 500 feet from the
beginning of the touchdown zone, mark the “U” (unsatisfactory), and comment in Remarks.
SURF WIND
6-187. Enter the surface wind direction in degrees. Enter the highest wind velocity measured during the
10 minute window for that pass.
SCORE METHOD
6-188. Select from the Legend the abbreviation for the method you use to determine the distance between
the PI and the first parachute.
y E = Estimated (You made a calculated guess).
y P = Paced (You paced off the distance).
y M = Measured (You used a calibrated measuring device to determine the distance).
MEAN EFFECTIVE WIND
6-189. Enter the time you measured the wind and the altitude where you measured it. |
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TIME
6-190. This is self-explanatory.
ALT
6-191. Enter the drop altitude.
DIR & LVL
6-192. Enter the wind direction in degrees and the velocity in knots.
REMARKS
6-193. Enter anything about the DZ operation that could help the Air Force during pilot debriefing. The
DZSTL forwards AF IMT 4304 (Figure 6-21) to the air operations officer, who submits it through the
chain of command to the USAF representative. If the DZSTL has radio communication with the aircraft,
he transmits the strike report directly to the aircraft, for example--
"Lifter one-six, strike report, three o’clock two-hundred yards."
or
"Lifter one-six, strike report, PI." |
3-21.38 | 170 | Chapter 6
Figure 6-21. Example completed AF IMT 4304. |
3-21.38 | 171 | Appendix A
Close Air Support and Close Combat Attack
This appendix does not change existing doctrine, tactics, techniques, or procedures
for employing pathfinder teams and elements. It just introduces a vision of how CAS
affects pathfinder teams.
DEFINITIONS
A-1. Close air support (CAS) is an air action by fixed and rotary wing aircraft against hostile targets
that are in close proximity to friendly forces and require detailed integration of each air mission with the
fire and movement of those forces.
A-2. Close combat attack (CCA) is a technique to control attack helicopters (AH-64 or OH-58D) in a
close air support role, usually very near friendly troops in contact. It helps the pilot see the same target
you see.
PURPOSE
A-3. The main purpose of CAS/CCA is to provide support to ground unit commanders. Other purposes
of CAS include the following:
AIR INTERDICTION
A-4. Air interdiction (AI) is very useful to the ground unit commander planning an assault. Air
superiority is essential in accomplishing the mission. AI assets will own the air in the area of operation,
eliminating the possibility of the friendly forces being hit by enemy CAS.
SECURITY AND RECONNAISSANCE
A-5. Close air support aircraft can pull security during airmobile operations, as well as reconnoiter the
air before any mission to remove any air threats.
ATTACK
A-6. CAS/CCA aircraft can attack targets without actually being on a support mission. CAS/CCA can
commence bombing runs or strafing runs on one of many different target types.
THEATER MISSILE DEFENSE
A-7. CAS/CCA aircraft can provide missile defense.
SPECIAL OPERATIONS
A-8. Certain CAS/CCA aircraft are set aside strictly for special operations units and missions.
SUPPORT BY FIRE
A-9. Though not the main purpose of CAS/CCA, support by fire is the most common. |
3-21.38 | 172 | Appendix A
SUPPRESSION OF ENEMY AIR DEFENSES
A-10. Most CAS/CCA aircraft have SEAD capability, and usually conduct SEAD missions before
any air mission.
TYPES OF AIRCRAFT
A-11. The following aircraft are the ones that will be most commonly seen by the pathfinder team during
a deployment. Table A-1 shows the mission, armaments, capabilities, and limitations of each aircraft in the
CAS theater.
Aircraft Mission Armaments Capabilities Limitations
F15C Air superiority, to include Air-to-air missiles Advanced air-to-air No CAS
defensive counterair (AIM-7, -9, -120). capabilities. capability
(DCA), offensive (air-to-air only).
Guns: 20-mm cannon.
counterair (OCA), and
force protection.
F16 (Blocks Primary: air superiority. Air-to-air missiles Situational More diverse
30, 40, and Secondary: SEAD. awareness missions equal
(AIM-7, -9, 120).
50) Block 30 and 40 aircraft datalink (SADL) less CAS
can provide CAS. Guns: 20-mm cannon, provides training. High
all general-purpose up-to-date speed limits
bombs (MK-82, -84), battlefield target
guided bombs information. CAS acquisition.
(GBU-10, -12, -15, -24, depends on unit Limited night
JDAM*), cluster bombs proficiency. employment.
(CBU-87, -89), and the
AGM-65 Maverick.
A-10 CAS and AI. 30-mm Gatling gun Pilots: highly Not all-weather.
“tank killer,” air-to-air: trained in CAS Slower speed
AIM-9, carries up to missions. makes it
16,000 lbs. of ordnance vulnerable to
Aircraft: specially
(MK-82, -84, -77), surface-to-air
designed to
GBU-10, -12, CBU-87, missile attacks.
support ground
CBU-89, AGM-65
forces, slow speed
Maverick.
aids in target
acquisition, longer
loiter time.
AC-130 CAS for special 25-mm cannon, 40-mm All-weather, long Vulnerable to
Spectre operations units, urban cannon, and 105 loiter time, surgical threats.
CAS, and Howitzer. 25mm is only strike. Employed
reconnaissance. on the AC130H. normally at
night in a low
threat
environment.
EA-6B SEAD. AGM-88. Electronic attack Limited types of
Prowler. and SEAD. targets such as
SAM sites.
Table A-1. CAS theater aircraft. |
3-21.38 | 173 | Close Air Support and Close Combat Attack
Aircraft Mission Armaments Capabilities Limitations
F-14 Primary: fleet defense Air-to-air 20-mm Two sets of eyes Pilots: Not all
Tomcat and air superiority. cannons, air-to-air (the pilot and the have CAS
Secondary: missiles (AIM-7, -9, RIO). proficiency.
reconnaissance, 120), and 13,000 lbs. of
Aircraft: age
AI, FAC(A), and CAS. ground ordnance.
and carrier
operations.
F-18 Air superiority, escort, Air-to-air 20-mm Highly proficient in Diverse
fleet defense, AI, SEAD, cannons, air-to-air CAS. missions have
reconnaissance, and missiles (AIM-7, -9, lower
CAS. -120), and 14,000 to proficiency
17,000 lbs of ground levels.
ordnance.
AV-8B Primary: CAS. 25-mm cannons and CAS proficient and Short range,
Harrier Secondary: AI, antiair the AIM-9, and up to highly flexible very small
warfare, helicopter 9,000 lbs of ground deploy and employ payload, short
escort, and ordnance. options. loiter time, and
reconnaissance. slow speed
make it
vulnerable to
air defenses.
AH-64 Tank attack and CAS. 2.75 rockets, hellfire Detect and classify Not all-weather.
Apache missiles, and 30-mm 128 targets,
cannon. prioritizing the 16
most dangerous.
OH-58 CAS, recon, and 2.75 rockets, Hellfire Limited AI, recon, Not all-weather.
limited AI. missiles, .50 cal MG, and CAS.
Vulnerable to
and air-to-air Stinger.
air defenses.
MH-6 Little CAS for special 2.75 rockets, Hellfire Highly Not all-weather.
Bird operations units. missiles, .50 cal MG, maneuverable.
Vulnerable to
and MK-19.
air defenses.
MH-60K CAS for special 2x M134 6-barrel 7.62 CAS and Not all-weather.
Blackhawk operation units. miniguns and 2.75 transportation of Vulnerable to
rockets. internal loads. air defenses.
Table A-1. CAS theater aircraft (continued).
TARGET TYPES
A-12. Target types include—
y Point (tank, radar antenna).
y Soft (vehicle, personnel).
y Hard (armor, bunker).
y Area (column of armor, troops in the open).
WEAPONS EFFECTS
A-13. The method by which a particular weapon alters a target is called a damage mechanism. The five
most commonly encountered damage mechanisms for conventional weapons are as follows: |
3-21.38 | 174 | Appendix A
BLAST
A-14. This effect is caused by tremendous overpressure (up to 700 tons per square inch). The bomb
expands to one and a half times its normal size. This effect is maximized with a surface burst. Targets
include buildings, machinery, and structures.
FRAGMENTATION
A-15. This effect extends over a greater area than that of a blast (up to 3,000 feet). The fragment size
depends on the thickness of case, the case material, and the explosive material. Targets include troops,
aircraft, and vehicles.
ARMOR PENETRATING
A-16. Amount of penetration and thickness is determined by the type of round used. Targets include
tanks and cement buildings.
CRATERING
A-17. General purpose bombs can make unpassible craters in the ground. Targets include airfields and
highways.
INCENDIARY
A-18. Dedicated incendiaries produce an intense, relatively small fireball that is more spectacular than
effective. Combined effects weapons include an incendiary element that burns intensely for a longer time
period. Maximize by hitting something that burns. Targets include uncovered supplies and combustibles.
AIRCRAFT WEAPONS TYPES
A-19. Aircraft weapons have evolved into complex systems capable of accurately targeting and
destroying even the most heavily-armored vehicles on the modern battlefield. Below are some of the most
common types of aircraft weapons.
GUNS
A-20. Guns include the 20 mm, 25 mm, 30 mm, 40 mm, and the 105-mm howitzer. They penetrate
armor and are highly explosive against soft targets. Guns are simple and cannot be jammed and spoofed.
GENERAL PURPOSE BOMBS
A-21. General purpose bombs include the MK-80 series and penetration bombs. Explosive weight is 10
percent to 30 percent of bomb weight. Heavy, forged-steel case to prevent breakup. Blunt-nosed and
flat-sided to prevent ricochet. Best penetration capability. Good fragmentation with fair blast.
AGM
A-22. The AGM-65 Maverick has easy mission planning. Launch and leave, as well as very accurate
missile. It has low collateral damage and must have fair weather to engage. |
3-21.38 | 175 | Close Air Support and Close Combat Attack
RISK ESTIMATED DISTANCES
A-23. The casualty criterion is a prone soldier in winter clothing who is unable to function within five
minutes after an assault. Troops in contact are friendlies within 1 kilometer of targets. Ordnance delivered
inside the 0.1% PI is considered danger close (Table A-2). The forward air controller (FAC) must advise
the ground commander by passing the ground commander’s initials. This indicates the acceptance of the
risk for ordnance. Peacetime numbers are found in ACCR 55-26.
REDs (m)
Item Description
10.0% PI 0.1% PI
2.75” rocket Rocket with various 145 240
warheads
5” rockets Zuni with various 220 340
warheads
Hellfire AGM-114 40 105
GAU-8 (A-10) 30-mm gatling gun 40 65
AGM-65 Maverick 25 95
AC-130 25mm, 40mm 50/45 70/85
105mm 95 230
MK-82 LGB GBU-12 95 300
MK-84 LGB GBU-10/24 90 340
CBU-87 CEM or Gator 165 220
Table A-2. Risk estimated distances.
TARGET TO WEAPONS
A-24. Table A-3, page A-6, shows what weapons are used to destroy what targets.
Target Weapon Target Weapon
Soft GP bomb Area denial and CBU-89/CBU-104 Gator
channelization
CBU-52/58/71 AGM-154 JSOW
CBU-87/CBU-103 CEM Armor CBU-87/CBU-103 CEM
20-/25-/30-/40-/105-mm guns AGM-65 Maverick
Hard GP bomb with steel nose plug 30-mm (API)
BLU-109/113 CBU-97/CBU-105 SFW
AGM-65 Maverick CBU-89/CBU-104 Gator
LGB LGB
GBU-15 MK-20 Rockeye
Point LGB SAM and AAA site Antiradiation missiles
AGM-65 Maverick PGM
GBU-15 CBU
20-/25-/30-/40-/105-mm guns GP bomb
Table A-3. Target to weapons. |
3-21.38 | 177 | Appendix B
Operational Formats
Pathfinder leaders can use the operational formats described in this appendix to plan
and carry out pathfinder operations. These formats are intended as guides and should
be modified as required.
PLANNING FORMAT
B-1. The pathfinder leader uses the operation planning format shown in Figure B-1, page B-3, to
organize an operation. This format consolidates information about each person or element. The leader can
refer to this information during his planning and briefing. This format provides columns for writing in—
ACFT NO
B-2. Write in either the chalk number or the last three digits of the number painted on the tail of the
aircraft that will transport the pathfinder.
NAME
B-3. Write in the name of each pathfinder.
LOAD TIME
B-4. Write in what time the pathfinder must be on the aircraft with all of his equipment.
TO TIME
B-5. Write in what time the aircraft will depart the staging area (the takeoff time).
DUTY AND LOCATION
B-6. Write in each pathfinder’s mission assignment and location within the operational area.
CALL SIGN AND FREQUENCY
B-7. Write in the radio call sign and frequency for each person operating a radio.
EQUIPMENT
B-8. List all equipment, other than individual equipment, that each pathfinder element will carry.
REMARKS
B-9. Write in any other pertinent information. |
3-21.38 | 178 | Appendix B
LANDING ZONE AND DROP ZONE CONTROL RECORDS
B-10. The leader can make up an LZ/DZ control record based on the example formats shown in
Figure B-2, page B-4. He uses this to record aircraft arrivals, departures, and load types. This record
provides information for both ground and aviation commanders. It helps account for personnel and
equipment. It can also help leaders initiate or conduct search-and-rescue operations for overdue or downed
aircraft. The pathfinder internal radio net(work) operator, located at the control center, normally maintains
this record.
FORMAT HEADINGS
B-11. Format headings include the following:
PATHFINDER UNIT
B-12. Enter the pathfinder unit’s code or number designation.
SUPPORTED UNIT
B-13. Enter the name of the main ground or aviation unit.
PERIOD
B-14. Enter the date and time the operation will start and finish. Enter 0001 for the start time of a
succeeding day. Enter 2400 for the end time if the operation will continue the next day.
OPERATION (AFLD LZ, DZ)
B-15. Enter the name or number of the operation. Cross out items that do not apply. Add any special
designation used.
RECORDER
B-16. Enter the name of the person who records data on this form. |
3-21.38 | 179 | Operational Formats
Figure B-1. Example format for operation plan. |
3-21.38 | 180 | Appendix B
Figure B-2. Example formats for the LZ/DZ control record.
COLUMN HEADINGS
B-17. Column headings include the following:
FLT OR ACFT NO
B-18. This means “flight or aircraft number,” so enter the flight or aircraft’s radio call sign.
TYPE ACFT
B-19. This means “type aircraft,” so enter the Army or Air Force aircraft model designation.
TIME COMM ESTAB
B-20. This means “time communication established,” so enter what time the aircraft acknowledges
contact (radio, visual, or both, as applicable). |
3-21.38 | 181 | Operational Formats
TIME (ARR, DPRT)
B-21. Enter the time the aircraft arrives or when the first of the flight lands. Enter the aircraft’s departure
time, or the time the last of the flight clears the ground.
TYPE LOAD (DELIVERED, EVAC)
B-22. Enter what type of load the aircraft delivered or evacuated (supplies, equipment, or personnel).
REMARKS
B-23. Write in any other pertinent information.
TROOP-LEADING PROCEDURES
B-24. From the moment he receives an order to conduct a pathfinder operation, the pathfinder leader
does his best to use the following troop-leading procedures (TLPs):
SECTION WARNING ORDER
B-25. Issue a section warning order, including—
y Roll call.
y A brief statement of the enemy and friendly situations.
y The mission.
y Chain of command and section structure.
y Individual uniform and equipment (if not in SOP).
y Equipment required.
y Time schedule to complete work priorities (state who must show up, and where and when they
must show up).
y Specific instructions and attached personnel.
y Time hack.
TENTATIVE PLAN
B-26. Make a tentative plan of the operation.
y Study the map.
y Check the weather.
y Study the unit SOP.
y Make a quick estimate of the situation. Will you need extra personnel from the supported unit,
other equipment or materiel, or additional communications resources?
y Begin planning.
MOVEMENT AND COORDINATION
B-27. Arrange for movement and coordination.
y Arrange to move unit and inform second in command.
y Coordinate with ground and aviation units. Cover the ground tactical plan, the landing and
unloading plan, the air movement plan, and the loading plan. Arrange for any extra people or
equipment needed from the supported unit. |
3-21.38 | 182 | Appendix B
TENTATIVE OPERATION PLAN
B-28. Prepare a tentative operation plan.
y Reconnoiter when time permits (map, ground, air).
y Continue the estimate and receive recommendations.
y Complete the plan (work out details, formulate orders). Present the tentative plan to the
supported unit commander or his staff. Prepare the final plan based on the desires of supported
unit commander and on his final order.
y Issue section order (normally an oral order).
y Join supported unit.
y Rehearse and inspect (if time and terrain permit). |
3-21.38 | 183 | Appendix C
Army Helicopter Specifications
For pathfinders to help select landing sites they must know the dimensions of Army
aircraft that US Army active and reserve units could employ. The art in this appendix
shows helicopters currently in use as of this manual’s publication date. |
3-21.38 | 184 | Appendix C
OBSERVATION HELICOPTERS
C-1. This category currently includes only the OH-58D Kiowa. Table C-1 shows specifications for the
Kiowa; Figure C-1 shows the aircraft from three angles.
Rotor Diameter................................... 35’
Length:
Rotor Operating............................... 42’ 2”
Blades Removed ............................. 33’ 10”
Height to Top of Turret ....................... 12’ 9 ½”
Tread of Skids .................................... 6’ 2”
Main Rotor:
Disk Area ......................................... 0.962 sq ft
Blade Area ....................................... 38.26 sq ft
Clear Area Needed for Rotor ............. 12.5 m
TDP #1 ............................................... 25 meters diameter
Table C-1. Specifications for the OH-58D Kiowa. |
3-21.38 | 185 | Army Helicopter Specifications
Figure C-1. OH-58D Kiowa. |
3-21.38 | 186 | Appendix C
ATTACK HELICOPTERS
C-2. This category of helicopters includes the AH 64A Apache and the AH 64D Longbow Apache.
AH 64A APACHE
C-3. Table C-2 shows specifications for the AH 64A Apache; Figure C-2 shows the aircraft from
three angles.
Rotor Diameter................................... 48’
Length:
Rotors Operating ............................. 58’ 3 ⅛”
Rotors Static .................................... 57’ 4”
Fuselage.......................................... 48’
Height ................................................. 15’ 3 ½”
Clear Area Needed for Rotors ........... 17.9 m
Minimum TDP without
commander’s approval is #3 ........... 50 meters diameter
Table C-2. Specifications for the AH 64A Apache. |
3-21.38 | 187 | Army Helicopter Specifications
Figure C-2. AH 64A Apache. |
3-21.38 | 188 | Appendix C
AH 64D LONGBOW APACHE
C-4. Table C-3 shows specifications for the AH 64D Apache; Figure C-3 shows the aircraft from
three angles.
Rotor Diameter................................... 48’
Length:
Rotors Operating ............................. 58’ 3 ⅛”
Rotors Static .................................... 57’ 4”
Fuselage.......................................... 48’
Height ................................................. 15’ 3 ½”
Clear Area Needed for Rotors ........... 17.9 meters
Minimum TDP without
commander’s approval is #3 ........... 50 meters diameter
Table C-3. Specifications for the AH 64D Apache. |
3-21.38 | 189 | Army Helicopter Specifications
Figure C-3. AH 64D Apache. |
3-21.38 | 190 | Appendix C
UTILITY HELICOPTERS
C-5. This category of helicopters includes the UH-1H Iroquois and the UH-60A/L Blackhawk.
UH-1H IROQUOIS
C-6. Table C-4 shows specifications for the Iroquois; Figure C-4 shows the aircraft from three angles.
Rotor Diameter................................... 48’
Length:
Rotors Operating ............................. 57’ 1”
Rotors Static .................................... 57’ 1”
Fuselage.......................................... 41’ 10 ¾”
Span, Maximum Lateral ..................... 9’ 4”
Height ................................................. 14’ 6”
Tread .................................................. 8’ 6 ½”
Main Rotor Ground Clearance,
Static Against Stops ........................ 6’ 6”
Clear Area Needed for Rotors ........... 17.4 meters
TDP #2 ............................................... 35 meters diameter
Cargo Hook Capacity......................... 4,000 lb
Table C-4. Specifications for the UH-1H Iroquois. |
3-21.38 | 191 | Army Helicopter Specifications
Figure C-4. UH-1H Iroquois. |
3-21.38 | 192 | Appendix C
UH-60A/L BLACKHAWK
C-7. Table C-5 shows specifications for the UH-60A & L Blackhawk; Figure C-5 shows the aircraft from
above and from the left side.
Rotor Diameter................................... 53’ 8”
Length:
Rotor Operating ............................... 64’ 10”
Rotor Folded.................................... 64’ 10”
Fuselage.......................................... 50’ 7 ½”
Span, Maximum Lateral ..................... 9’ 8 ½”
Height ................................................. 16’ 5”
Tread .................................................. 8’ 10 ½”
Main Rotor Ground Clearance,
Static Against Stops ........................ 8’ 9”
Clear Area Needed for Rotors ........... 19.5 meters
TDP #3 ............................................... 50 meters diameter
Cargo Hook Capacity
A Model............................................ 8,000 lbs
L Model ............................................ 9,000 lbs
Table C-5. Specifications for the UH-60A Blackhawk. |
3-21.38 | 193 | Army Helicopter Specifications
Figure C-5. UH-60A/L Blackhawk. |
3-21.38 | 194 | Appendix C
CARGO HELICOPTERS
C-8. This category of helicopters includes only the CH-47 D Chinook. With slingload, cargo helicopter
TDP is #5 (100-meter diameter); without slingload, it is #4 (80-meter diameter). Table C-6 shows
specifications for the CH-47 D Chinook; Figure C-6 shows it from three angles.
Rotor Diameter................................... 60’
Length:
Rotors Operating ............................. 98’ 10 ¾”
Rotors Folded .................................. 51’
Fuselage.......................................... 51’
Height (Overall) .................................. 18’ 7
13/16
”
Tread .................................................. 11’ 11”
Rotor Ground Clearance:
Static Forward ................................. 7’ 10
5/8
”
Idling Forward.................................. 11’
7/8
”
Clear Area Needed for Rotors ........... 30.4 meters
TDP #4 ............................................... 80 meters diameter
Allowable Cargo Load:
Forward Hook .................................. 17,000 lb
Center Hook .................................... 26,000 lb
Aft Hook ........................................... 17,000 lb
Fore & Aft Hooks combined............. 25,000 lb
Table C-6. Specifications for the CH-47 D Chinook. |
3-21.38 | 195 | Army Helicopter Specifications
Figure C-6. CH-47 D Chinook. |
3-21.38 | 197 | Appendix D
Digitization Supplement
This appendix does not change existing doctrine, tactics, techniques, or procedures
for employing pathfinder teams and elements. It just introduces a vision of how
digitization will affect pathfinder teams.
DEFINITION
D-1. “Digitization” refers to the ongoing effort to integrate the Army’s diversified battlefield operating
systems into a network in which leaders and Soldiers can share and interchange current information about
the battlefield environment for immediate or later use. Digitization is the near real-time transfer of
battlefield information between diverse fighting elements to permit a shared awareness of the tactical
situation. Accelerated operational tempo, instant communications, and immediate response times will
characterize the digital environment.
D-2. Digitization is based on advancements in computers, communications, satellite navigation, and
own-the-night (OTN) vision and sighting capabilities. Satellite navigation, digital communications, and
digital mapping will allow leaders and Soldiers to share a common, digital picture of the battlespace
environment in real time.
D-3. New computer capabilities will allow leaders to decisively concentrate their battlefield combat
power. High-speed digital data exchange, the simultaneous display of intelligence data to leaders at all
levels, and the rapid exchange of targeting data from sensors to shooters power this increased
effectiveness.
D-4. New OTN capabilities enhance the ability to detect, identify, and engage targets during limited
visibility. They also increase accuracy and control of fires, which reduces the risk of fratricide.
PURPOSE, ADVANTAGES, AND CAPABILITIES
D-5. The main purpose of digitization is to provide access to common, current data about friendly and
enemy forces. Leaders and Soldiers collect these data through networks of sensors, CPs, processors, and
weapons platforms. Every leader and Soldier will have immediate access to relevant information. All
Soldiers will know what is happening around and among them. Other purposes of digitization include the
following:
INFORMATION
D-6. To provide an integrated digital information network that will improve information flow; increase
command and control; support battlefield fire and maneuver; and give leaders (decision makers), Soldiers
(shooters), and supporters customized information. Leaders, Soldiers, and supporters need--
y To make the decisions necessary to prevail in any campaign.
y To share vital battlefield information (friendly and enemy) rapidly, if not instantly, rather than
by slow voice radio or even slower liaison efforts.
y To act on information faster than the enemy does.
y To win the information war against any adversary.
y To use common data collected through the digitized network. |
3-21.38 | 198 | Appendix D
SITUATIONAL AWARENESS
D-7. To achieve near real-time situational awareness at all times and at all levels. This will allow
leaders and Soldiers to collect, share, and use relevant information at once.
OPERATIONAL AWARENESS
D-8. Greater situational awareness leads to increased operational awareness, which is better
understanding the “big picture.”
OPERATIONAL TEMPO
D-9. A greater grasp of the “big picture” enables leaders and Soldiers to set and maintain an increased
operational tempo, which will help in overwhelming the enemy.
LETHALITY, ACCURACY, AND SURVIVABILITY
D-10. To enhance the effectiveness and combat power of a force comprised of fewer and smaller units,
so it can execute its missions with greater lethality, accuracy, and survivability in an environment
characterized by an accelerated operational tempo, instant communications, and immediate response times.
PLANNING AND PREPARATION
D-11. To streamline and support mission planning, preparation, and execution, and to do so by
providing critical information to every leader at the same time. Having earlier access to needed information
compresses the mission planning and preparation cycles.
EFFECTIVENESS
D-12. To increase the pathfinder team’s effectiveness in conducting pathfinder operations for its
parent unit.
FIREPOWER
D-13. To synchronize direct and indirect fires more effectively. To mass the effects of dispersed
firepower. This replaces the existing way of fighting that relies on physically massing weapons and forces.
DECENTRALIZATION
D-14. To support more decentralized operations, thereby improving the effectiveness of team- and
element-level operations.
BATTLESPACE
D-15. To maintain a clear, accurate, simultaneous, and appropriate vision of the battlespace at each
echelon, from Soldier to commander, and to enhance the mission capabilities needed in a multidimensional
battlespace.
FRATRICIDE
D-16. To minimize fratricide. |
3-21.38 | 199 | Digitization Supplement
SIGNATURE
D-17. To reduce the team’s signature on the battlefield.
NAVIGATION
D-18. To improve navigation.
LINKUP
D-19. To improve linkup. |
3-21.38 | 201 | Appendix E
Air Force Instruction
Air force instructions are used primarily in the establishment of CARP drop zones
and used in certain cases for GMRS drop zones.
AIRDROP AIRSPEEDS
E-1. The airdrop airspeed is used to determine additional size requirements on VIRS and GMRS drop
zones using the D=RxT and T=D/R formulas. It is also used to determine the forward throw for rotary
wing aircraft. See Table E-1 for the airdrop airspeeds for various aircrafts.
Drop Speed
Type of Aircraft Type of Load (Knots Indicated Airspeed)
UH-1 All 50 to 70 knots (optimum 70 knots)
UH-60 All 65 to 75 knots (optimum 70 knots)
CH-46 (USMC) All 80 to 90 knots
CH-47 All 80 to 110 knots (optimum 90 knots)
CH-53 (USMC) All 90 to 110 knots
CH/HH3 (USAF) All 70 to 90 knots
C-130 Personnel (Static Line) 130 knots
Personnel (HALO & HAHO) 110 to 150 knots (optimum 130 knots)
Equipment/Combination ** 130 to 140 knots
CDS*/Combination ** 130 to 140 knots
Door Bundle 130 knots
SATB Same as load simulated
C-17 Personnel (Static Line) 130 to 135 knots
Personnel (HALO and HAHO) 138 to 145 knots
Equipment/Combination ** 145 knots +/- 5 knots
CDS*/Combination ** 145 knots +/- 5 knots
Door Bundle 130 to 135 knots
SATB N/A
C-141/C5A Personnel (Static Line) 130 to 135 knots
Personnel (HALO and HAHO) 130 to 180 knots
Equipment/Combination** 150 knots
CDS*/Combination** 150 knots
Door Bundle 130 to 135 knots
SATB Same as load simulated
* Includes free fall, high velocity CDS, wedge, Ahkio (military cold weather, squad-sized) sled, and combat rubber
raiding craft (CRRC).
** Combination airdrops (for example, heavy equipment followed by personnel) use the highest airdrop airspeed.
Table E-1. Airdrop airspeeds. |
3-21.38 | 202 | Appendix E
DROP ZONE SIZE
E-2. The airlift mission commander is normally responsible for airdrop accuracy and safety-of-flight
for all drop zones meeting Air Force minimum size criteria. Standard DZ sizes are shown in Table E-2. For
more information, see AFI 13-217.
1, 2 3
Altitude (AGL) Width Length
Container Delivery System (CDS), Container Release System (CRS), and Container Ramp Loads (CRL): C-130
Single Containers Double Containers
1 1 to 2 400 yards/366 meters
2 3 to 4 450 yards/412 meters
To 600 feet 400 yards/366 meters
3 5 to 6 500 yards/457 meters
4 7 to 8 550 yards/503 meters
5 to 8 9 or more 700 yards/640 meters
Add 40 yards/36 meters to width and length for each 100 feet above 600 feet
Above 600 feet
(20 yards/18 meters to each side of DZ, 20 yards/18 meters to each end).
CDS: C-141, C-17
Single Containers Double Containers
1 1 to 2 590 yards/562 meters
2 3 to 4 615 yards/540 meters
To 600 feet 450 yards/412 meters 3 5 to 6 665 yards/608 meters
4 to 8 7 to 16 765 yards/700 meters
9 to 14 17 to 28 915 yards/837 meters
15 to 20 29 to 40 1,065 yards/974 meters
Add 40 yards/36 meters to width and length for each 100 feet above 600 feet
Above 600 feet
(20 yards/18 meters to each side of DZ, 20 yards/18 meters to each end).
CDS: High Velocity (HV) (Using 12-, 22-, or 26-Foot Ring Slot Parachutes)
660 yards/604 meters
To 3,000 feet 580 yards/530 meters Add 50 yards/46 meters to trailing edge for each additional row
of containers.
Add 25 yards/23 meters to each side and 100 yrds/91 meters to each end for every 1,000-foot
Above 3,000 feet
increase in drop altitude.
CDS: High Altitude Airdrop Resupply System (HAARS)
1 to 8 containers 1,200 yards/1,098 meters
To 3,000 feet 500 yards/457 meters
9 or more containers 1,900 yards/1,739 meters
Above 3,000 feet Add 25 yards/23 meters to each side and 50 yards/46 meters to each end for every 1,000-foot
increase in drop altitude.
High Speed Low Level Aerial Delivery System (HSLLADS)
Unknown 300 yards/274 meters 600 yards/549 meters
Personnel (Static Line)
1 parachutist 600 yards/549 meters
To 1,000 feet 600 yards/549 meters Additional Add 75 yards/69 meters the trailing edge for
parachutists each additional parachutist
(PI for ST/para-rescue personnel).
Add 30 yards/28 meters to width and length for each 100 feet above 1,000 feet
Above 1,000 feet
(15 yards/14 meters to each side of DZ, 15 yards/13 meters to each end).
Table E-2. Standard drop zone size criteria. |
3-21.38 | 203 | Air Force Instruction
1, 2 3
Altitude (AGL) Width Length
Heavy Equipment
One platform 1,000 yards/915 meters
600 yards/549
To 1,100 feet Additional Add 400 yards/366 meters (C-130), 500 yards/457 meters
meters
platforms (C-141/C-17/C-5) to the trailing edge for each additional
platform.
Above 1,100 feet Add 30 yards/28 meters to the width and length for each 100 feet above 1,100 feet (15 yards/14
meters to each side of DZ, 15 yards/14 meters to each end).
1
This does not apply to AFSOC assigned or gained, to aircraft OPCON to USSOCOM, or to a theater special
operations command:
a. For day visual formations, increase width by 100 yards/92 meters (50 yards/46 meters on each side).
b. For C-141, C-130 station-keeping equipment (SKE) AWADS formation, increase width by 400 yards/366 meters
(200 yards/184 meters on each side).
c. At night, increase width by 100 yards/92 meters for single ship visual drops (50 yards/46 meters on each side).
Increase 200 yards/184 m for visual formations (100 yards/92 meters on each side).
2
C-17 DZ width adjustments. You might need to adjust more than once:
a. For visual formations (day or night), increase width by 100 yards/92 meters (50 yards/46 meters each side).
b. For night pilot-directed airdrops, increase width an additional 100 yards/92 meters (50 yards/46 meters each side).
This does not apply to aircraft performing GPS drops.
c. For SKE HE/CDS formation, increase width by 400 yards/366 meters (200 yards/183 meters each side).
d. For personnel formations, minimum DZ basic width using center PIs is 1,240 yards for 2-ship elements and 1,800
yards for 3-ship elements. When using offset PIs, minimum basic width is 1,100 yards for 2-ship elements and
1,300 yards for 3-ship elements.
3
This does not apply to AFSOC assigned or gained, to aircraft OPCON to USSOCOM, or to a theater special
operations command. At night, increase length by 100 yards/92 meters for visual drops (50 yards/46 meters on
each end). This also does not apply to a C-17 doing GPS drops.
Table E-2. Standard drop zone size criteria (continued).
GROUND MARKED RELEASE SYSTEM
E-3. The GMRS is mainly used for small unit insertion and aerial resupply operations. It is the most
tactical drop zone because communication with the drop aircraft is not necessary. Table E-3 shows the
constants for different airdrop loads. Table E-4, page E-4, shows the forward throw distance for various
aircraft. Forward throw distance is how far a parachutist or cargo container travels along the aircraft flight
path. It begins after the person or cargo exits the aircraft, and continues until the parachute fully opens and
the load descends vertically. (For more on the GMRS, see AFI 13-217.)
Type Drop K (Load Drift Constant)
Personnel (static line) 3.0
Heavy equipment 1.5
CDS/CRL/CRS 1.5
Door bundle 1.5
SATB 2.4
Table E-3. Ground marked release system load drift constants (K). |
3-21.38 | 204 | Appendix E
Type Drop C-130 C-17 C-141 C-5
Personnel 250 yards 250 yards 250 yards 250 yards
(static line)/door bundle (229 meters) (229 meters) (229 meters) (229 meters)
Personnel (MFF) 328 yards 328 yards 328 yards 328 yards
(300 meters) (300 meters) (300 meters) (300 meters)
Heavy equipment 500 yards 700 yards 730 yards 730 yards
(458 meters) (640 meters) (668 meters) (668 meters)
CDS/CRS/CRL 550 yards 725 yards 750 yards N/A
(503 meters) (663 meters) (686 meters)
SATB 160 yards N/A 160 yards N/A
(147 meters) (147 meters)
Table E-4. Ground marked release system forward throw distance.
POINT OF IMPACT
E-4. The point of impact is the location where the first piece of equipment or first personnel is planned
to land on the DZ. These are used in computing the release point on CARP drop zones and for tactically
assessed GMRS DZs for CDS or heavy equipment. For more information, see Table E-5 and AFI 13-217.
Distance From
Sides
Type Drop (See Note 4) Distance from Approach End
C-130/C-141/C-5 (See Notes 1 and 2) Day Night
CDS C-130 (See Note 3) (See Note 4) 200 yards/183 meters 250 yards/229 meters
CDS C-141 (See Note 3) (See Note 4) 225 yards/206 meters 275 yards/251 meters
Personnel (See Note 4) 300 yards/274 meters 350 yards/320 meters
Equipment (See Note 4) 500 yards/457 meters 550 yards/503 meters
C-17 (See Notes 1 and 2) Day Night
CDS (See Note 3) (See Note 4) 225 yards/206 meters 275 yards/251 meters
Personnel Offset 300 yards/274 meters 350 yards/320 meters
PI=250 yds left or
right of calculated
center PI
(or see Note 4)
Equipment (See Note 4) 500 yards/457 meters 550 yards/503 meters
1
PI location may be adjusted to meet specific mission requirements. Participants must be briefed.
2
PI location may be adjusted for aircrew PI acquisition training. The PI may be located anywhere within the surveyed
DZ boundaries as long as the minimum required DZ size for that type airdrop and aircraft formation fits within the
boundaries, and provided the distance from the leading edge listed above is complied with. For lateral placement, the
PI must be located at least one-half the width of the minimum size DZ (based upon type airdrop and aircraft
formation) from the closest side of the DZ. All participants must be briefed when using this option.
3
For high velocity (HV) CDS and HAARS, laterally position the PI in the center of the DZ.
4
PI distance from sides of DZ must be at least one-half the minimum width for that type airdrop.
Table E-5. Standard point-of-impact placement. |
3-21.38 | 205 | Glossary
acft load aircraft load; refers to cargo suspended below a slingload
ACL allowable cargo load
ACP air control point
ADS aerial delivery sling
AEL Army Electronic Library
AF Air Force
AFB Air Force base
AFI Air Force Instruction
AFSOC Air Force Special Operations Command
aft to the rear, behind, or toward the tail of the aircraft
AGL above ground level
AH attack helicopter
Ahkio sled a squad-powered sled for operations in extreme cold
AI air interdiction
airdrop delivery of cargo or personnel by parachute from an aircraft in flight
AL airland
ALO air liaison officer
alt altitude
AM amplitude modulation
AMC Air Mobility Command
AO area of operations
apex fitting the uppermost point (clevis, shackle, ring, or loop) that gathers the sling
tension members and attaches to the cargo hook
apex fitting pin A headed pin that extends through the two ends of the apex fitting-clevis,
retained in place by a bolt and nut apex fitting spacer (an hourglass-shaped
bushing that fits over the apex fitting pin), causing the apex fitting to stay
centered on the cargo hook
approach azimuth the direction of an aircraft’s approach to the landing point, usually expressed
in degrees and measured clockwise from a reference point
arr arrival
ASIP advanced system improvement program
ATA actual time of arrival
ATC air traffic controller
ATD actual time of departure
AWADS All-Weather Aerial Delivery System
AZAR assault zone availability report
basket hitch a type of attachment in which a flat web nylon strap is formed in the shape of
the letter "U" with the two ends connected side-by-side
basket leg the cable on a pallet sling that encircles the load |
3-21.38 | 206 | Glossary
becket a short length of rope with an eye on one or both ends, used to secure items
such as eyelets or coils of rope
bight a formed loop in a rope or cable
BIT built-in test
blivet A rubber or fabric storage bag, transportable by air or ground, that holds fuel
or water
breakaway use of material with a low breaking strength, such as tape or cotton webbing,
technique to temporarily restrain the sling equipment from becoming entangled on the
load as the helicopter puts tension on the sling
breaking strength resistance to breaking, commonly measured in pounds. (Refers to tensile
strength.)
brownout a loss of orientation with respect to the horizon, caused by blowing sand, dust,
or dirt
CA combat assault
cable a suspended external cargo sling system. Cargo hook attached to the bottom of
the fuselage by a system of cables
CAPES Chemlight-Assisted Personnel Exit System
cargo hoist a device used to raise, lower, or winch cargo
cargo hook a suspension hook device on which the apex fitting is placed to transport an
external load
cargo hook keeper a spring-loaded device used to prevent the apex fitting from sliding off the
cargo hook load beam
cargo hook loading also called a "shepherd's hook," with a hook on one end, which an aircrew
pole member uses to pick up the apex fitting and connect it to the cargo hook. Used
when the hookup team cannot stand on top of the load
cargo net a meshed arrangement of straps or cords that have been knotted or woven
together at regular intervals and used to transport supplies and equipment
cargo sling consists of multiple tension members which, when properly rigged, enable
aircrew to suspend cargo and equipment under a helicopter
CARP computed air release point
CAS close air support
castle nut a hexagon-shaped nut with a slot in each of its six sides and secured in place
by a cotter pin
CBRN chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear
CBU cluster bomb unit
CC control center
CCA close combat attack
CCP communications checkpoint
CDS container delivery system
cellulose a cushioning or padding material used to protect the load or sling legs
center (main) cargo a cargo hook located in the center of the helicopter
hook
center of balance location where an item would balance if it were possible to support the load at
that point |
3-21.38 | 207 | Glossary
centerline an imaginary line that extends lengthwise and bisects the bottom of the
helicopter fuselage
CG center of gravity
CH cargo helicopter
chemiluminescent a plastic tube filled with a liquid chemical and a glass vial that when activated
light produces a glowing light known as chemiluminescence
choker hitch a knot formed by placing a strap or cord around an item and passing the free
end of the strap or cord through the loop formed by the other end
clevis a "U"-shaped yoke device with a bolt or pin through the two ends
COMSEC communications security
connector link a metal link device that joins the ends of a nylon web loop together, such as
used on the web ring of the 15,000-pound capacity multileg sling
constant power the point at which a helicopter engine produces a fixed level of performance
CONUS Continental United States
CP command post
CRC control and reporting center
CRL container ramp load
CRS Container Release System
DCA defensive counterair
dep departure
det detachment
DF direction finding
down wash also called "rotor wash." High-velocity air movement under a hovering
helicopter
downslope downhill; descending; a slope that lies downward
downwind in the direction that the wind is blowing
drawbar a beam across the rear of a vehicle or aircraft to which implements are hitched
drop-off a very steep or perpendicular descent
DS direct support
DTG date-time group
dual-point load cargo or equipment rigged and suspended from two cargo hooks
DZ drop zone
DZSO drop-zone safety officer
DZST drop-zone support team
DZSTL drop-zone support team leader
ECCM electronic countercountermeasures
ECM electronic countermeasures
EMT emergency medical technician
end bar the removable side of a connector link
energy-dissipating artificial cardboard packing material. In parachute operations, protects
material equipment by dissipating shock or energy when the package lands
ETA estimated time of arrival |
3-21.38 | 208 | Glossary
EW electronic warfare
exit path the track or course of an aircraft departing the landing point
ext extracted
external air movement of supplies or equipment that is rigged and suspended from a
transport helicopter cargo hook
external load consists of supplies or equipment properly rigged with either one or more
slings, cargo bags, or cargo nets
eye sock a loop formed at both ends of a sling leg
EZ extraction zone
FAARP forward area arming and refueling point
FB Fort Benning
FEBA forward edge of the battle area
field-expedient individual slings or sling legs used as a vertical riser or pendant
pendants
field-expedient a device fabricated from readily available material to discharge the helicopter's
static-discharge static electrical charge
wand
field-expedient any device locally fabricated to connect to an external load for the purpose of
drogue device increasing the stability of the load
FLA frontline ambulance
flat web nylon a flat nylon strap or sling fabricated in either concentric loops or single lengths
floating web (see sliding keepers)
keepers
FM frequency modulated
FOC flight operations center
forward cargo a cargo hook located forward of the center or main cargo hook
hook
forward slope ground whose surface forms an upward angle or incline with the horizon
FRAGO fragmentary order
free-swinging cargo a cargo hook attached to the end of a pendant or cable instead of attached
hook directly to the helicopter fuselage
ft feet
fuselage the central body portion of a helicopter, which accommodates the crew,
passengers, and cargo
fwd forward
GAIL glide angle indicator light
GCA ground-controlled approach
glide angle (GAIL) A device that emits a three-color light beam that indicates a safe glide
indicator light path over approach obstacles onto a landing site
glide path angle the helicopter’s angle of approach to the landing point
GMRS Ground Marked Release System
GMT Greenwich Mean Time
GP general purpose
grabhook a hook for grabbing (as the links of a chain) |
3-21.38 | 209 | Glossary
ground crew personnel on the ground who help prepare and rig loads, guide the helicopter,
and connect the load to the helicopter
GSI glide slope indicator
GTA ground-to-air
GUC ground unit commander
GWT gross weight
HAARS High Altitude Airdrop Resupply System
HAHO high-altitude, high-opening
HALO high-altitude, low-opening
handheld designed to be operated while held in the hand
HE heavy equipment
HEAT helicopter external air transport
HLZ helicopter landing zone
HMMWV high-mobility, multipurpose wheeled vehicle
HO HALO or HAHO
HSLLADS High-Speed, Low-Level, Aerial Delivery System
HVCDS High-Velocity Container-Delivery System
IAW in accordance with
ID identification
ILS Instrument Landing System
immediate mission a task or support mission that arises during the course of a battle and which by
its nature cannot be planned in advance
INR internal net recorder
ins inserted
ISA international standardization agreement; see also QSTAG, STANAG
JAAT joint air attack team
JP jet petroleum
keeper a device that holds something in position such as an apex fitting on the
helicopter cargo hook
KIAS knots indicated airspeed
knotless nylon cord a cargo net manufactured from braided nylon cord joined by a knotless
cargo net intersection method
kt knot(s)
landing point a point within a landing site where one helicopter can land
landing site a site within a landing zone that contains one or more landing points. This is
also known as the touchdown point
landing zone any specified area used for the landing of aircraft
lanyard a short piece of rope or cable used to fasten something or an extension of a
shorter device
lashing straps a flat-web nylon strap with a D-ring on one end. Used to lash equipment
together
latch bar the movable top part of the pallet sling tensioner |
3-21.38 | 210 | Glossary
lateral slope ground whose surface forms an angle oriented from either right to left or left to
right with the horizon
lb pound(s)
lifting eye a loop in a cable, rope, or other device used to lift an object
lifting leg hook a hook on the end of a sling leg, usually used with a hoisting sling
lifting point/ an integral part of the equipment, commonly called a lug, eye, shackle, or ring
lifting provision that provides a means of attaching a sling for safe lifting
lifting shackle a ring or clevis that provides a means of attaching sling for safe lifting
liftoff a vertical takeoff by an aircraft or a rocket vehicle or a missile
LIN line item number
load beam a structural member of the cargo hook that supports the weight of the external
load
load binders a locking device used to tighten and secure
load oscillation the swinging movement of an external load
locking detent a slot in the pallet sling tensioner stirrup that engages the release knob
assembly on the latch bar
low-response, a cargo hook attached to a suspension frame below the fuselage by a system of
external cargo sling cables and pulleys
system
lunette the towing eye on the trailer drawbar
LZ landing zone
MAC Military Airlift Command
MAF Military Airlift Facility
main cargo hook a mechanical drum with a cable attached to raise and lower the cargo hook
winch
manual release a lever, knob, or other device that, when actuated by either the ground crew or
knob or lever aircrew member, causes the cargo hook to open
mean effective the average wind speed from the ground to drop altitude
wind
MEDEVAC medical evacuation
METT-TC mission, enemy, terrain, troops, time, and civil considerations
MEW mean effective wind
MFF military free fall
MGRS military grid reference system
MK 100 (Mark 100) the designation given to the pallet sling that can accommodate a
pallet load 48 to 70 inches high
MK 86 (Mark 86) the designation given to the pallet sling that can accommodate a
pallet load 29 to 40 inches high
MOGAS motor gasoline
MPS meters per second
MSL mean sea level
multileg-pole A reach pendant that has one or more removable sling legs
pendant
NATO North Atlantic Treaty Organization |
3-21.38 | 211 | Glossary
NAVAID navigation aid
NCO noncommissioned officer
night vision goggles an image-intensification device that improves visibility in low light situations
by amplifying available light
NLT not later than
NM nautical miles
no-load condition a situation in which the sling legs are under no tension
no-sew fitting a web keeper secured in place by a locking fork
NSN national stock number
NVD night vision device
NVG night vision goggles
nylon donut a ring formed by joining two ends of a flat, web-nylon strap using a Type IV
link or two-point link connector
OCA offensive counterair
OPCON operational control
OPORD operation order
oscillate to swing back and forth like a pendulum
OTN own the night
overfly to fly over; to pass over in an airplane
pendant a releasable swivel hook. That is, a high-strength sling constructed of multiple
plies of nylon webbing with a remotely operated, manually released, full
360-degree swivel hook
pendant cargo a cargo hook that is connected to the end of a strap and suspended below the
hook fuselage
PEPI personnel point impact
permanent keeper a web keeper that encircles all of the loops of a nylon web strap and is either
sewn or otherwise retained in place
phraseology a manner of organizing words and phrases into longer elements; a choice of
words
PI point of impact
PIBAL pilot balloon
pickup zone landing site designated where an aircraft picks up passengers or cargo
piggyback load cargo suspended below a slingload such as a cargo net carried beneath a
howitzer
POL petroleum, oils, and lubricants
port side the left-hand side (as one looks forward)
preclude to make impossible by necessary consequence; to rule out in advance
preplanned mission a task or support in accordance with a program planned in advance of
the operation
proword procedure word; a word or phrase limited to radio telephone procedure used to
facilitate communication by conveying information in a condensed standard
form.
PSP perforated steel planking
PZ pickup zone |
3-21.38 | 212 | Glossary
QSTAG quadripartite standardization agreement
quick-fit strap metal, V-shaped device with a double bar and a friction-grip crossbar. Used
fasteners with lacing straps
racetrack to fly in an oval flight pattern over a drop zone or point of impact
RAM raised-angle marker
RB radar beacon
reach pendant braided fabric rope assembly with an attached, stiffened reach tube and a loop
on each end
reach tube a length of tubing that encases the braided rope portion of a reach pendant
receiving unit a unit receiving the transported supplies and equipment
recon reconnaissance, reconnoiter
relative humidity the ratio of absolute humidity to the maximum possible density of water vapor
in the air at the same temperature
rendezvous point a clearly defined and visible point or assembly area for the ground crew during
helicopter operations
retainer strap nylon web loop interwoven on the web ring of the 15,000-pound capacity
multileg sling that retains the sling legs on the lower part of the web ring
retention pins metal devices used to secure objects such as clevises or shackles to the vehicle
frame
RIO radar intercept officer
rope lay an individual grouping of wire strands woven or twisted together, which when
braided together form a cable
rotor wash (See down wash.)
RP release point
SADL situational awareness datalink
safe working load the greatest capacity of a lifting device used in helicopter external load
operations
SAM surface-to-air missle
SATB simulated airdrop training bundle
SATCOM satellite communications
SEAD suppression of enemy air defenses
SIGINT signals intelligence
signalman A person who signals or who works with signals, or a member of the ground
crew who communicates with the pilot by means of arm-and-hand signals
SIGSEC signal security
SINCGARS Single-Channel, Ground and Airborne Radio System
single-point load cargo or equipment rigged and suspended from one cargo hook
SKE station-keeping equipment
sliding keeper a web keeper located near the ends of a flat web strap that encircles all of the
loops and acts as a cinch
sling leg An individual tension member of the sling set
slingload Consists of supplies or equipment properly rigged with either one or more
slings, cargo bags, or cargo nets |
3-21.38 | 213 | Glossary
sling-to-clevis Connecting a flat web nylon strap to a lift provision by means of inserting a
attachment clevis through the loop on the end of the strap and attaching the clevis to the
provision
SOI signal operating instructions
SOP standing operating procedure
SPIES Special Patrol Insertion Extraction System
spreader bar A device that prevents the sling legs from bearing against the load, which
could cause damage
STANAG standard NATO agreement
starboard side The right-hand side (as one looks forward)
static discharge A member of the ground crew responsible for discharging the static electricity
wand crewman from the helicopter. Also called “static probe crewman.”
static electricity A electrical charge produced and stored in the helicopter fuselage during flight
STOL short takeoff and landing
STT special tactics team
supported unit A unit requesting the mission to transport supplies and equipment
swage stops Short lengths of metal tubing crimped on the pallet sling cables
tandem load An external load consisting of two pieces of equipment joined together, such
as a prime mover and a howitzer
TDP touchdown point
tensioner A locking device on the pallet sling cables used to adjust the overall length of
the cable
tensioner stirrup The fixed body of the pallet sling tensioner
theodolite A surveyor's instrument for measuring horizontal and, usually, also vertical
angles
tie-down provision An integral part of the equipment commonly called a lug, eye, shackle, or ring
that provides a means of attaching a hook, strap, or cable to restrain equipment
during shipment
tie-down strap A device consisting of a flat web nylon strap with hooks on one or both ends
and a ratchet device used to secure items
TOT time on target
touchdown hover a helicopter landing with only part of the landing gear positioned on the
ground
TOW tube-launched, optically tracked, wire-guided missile
transit to pass across
TSC Training Support Center
TTB tactical training bundle
TTB/CDS tactical training bundle/Container Delivery System
TTB/HE tactical training bundle/heavy equipment
turbo meter an instrument for measuring ground wind speed
turnaway the act of refusing admittance
turnout an act of turning out
two-point link a device used to connect two ends of a flat web nylon strap together
connector |
3-21.38 | 214 | Glossary
Type III nylon cord a thin rope made of several strands of Type III nylon woven together
Type IV link a device used to connect two ends of a flat web nylon strap together
connector
Type X sling a nylon aerial delivery sling consisting of two, three, or four consecutive loops
of Type X nylon webbing
Type XXVI sling a nylon multiloop-line sling consisting of two or more consecutive loops of
Type XXVI nylon webbing
UH utility helicopter
UHF ultra-high frequency
upslope a slope that lies upward; uphill
upwind the direction from which the wind is blowing
USAF US Air Force
USCG US Coast Guard
USMC US Marine Corps
USSOCOM United States Special Operations command
VAPI visual approach-path indicator
VDC volts of direct current
vertical pendant a high-strength sling or strap used to increase the clearance between the
helicopter and the load
vertical riser a suspension member oriented in a vertical direction
VHF very high frequency
VIRS Verbally Initiated Release System
VMC visual meteorological conditions
V-shaped approach the area within a designated arc or sector measured outward from the center of
path the landing point
web ring the apex fitting of the 15,000-pound capacity, multileg sling set
web ring connector a metal connecting link that joins the two ends of the web ring strap on the
bar 15,000-pound capacity, multileg sling
web ring strap a nylon web loop that forms the web ring on the 15,000-pound capacity,
multileg sling
whiteout a loss of orientation with respect to the horizon due to caused by blowing
snow, the sun reflecting on the snow, or an overcast sky
windchill factor the cooling effect of moving air
yd yard(s) |
3-21.38 | 215 | References
SOURCES USED
These are the sources quoted or paraphrased in this publication.
ARMY PUBLICATIONS
FM 3-21.220. Static Line Parachuting Techniques and Tactics. 23 September 2003.
FM 1-02. Operational Terms and Graphics. 21 September 2004.
FM 10-450-3. Multiservice Helicopter Slingload: Basic Operations and Equipment. 10 April 1997.
FM 21-60. Visual Signals. 30 September 1987.
FM 24-18. Tactical Single-Channel Radio Communications Techniques. 30 September 1987.
FM 24-24. Signal Data References: Signal Equipment. 29 December 1994.
TM 9-1370-206-10. Operator's Manual for Pyrotechnic Signals. 31 March 1991; with Change 1,
10 March 1992.
AIR FORCE INSTRUCTIONS
AFI 11-231. Computed Air Release Point Procedures. 7 July 2004.
AFI 11-410. Personnel Parachute Operations. 20 May 2004.
AFI 13-217. Assault Zone Procedures. 1 May 2003; with four supplements published between
1 October 2003 and 15 May 2004.
DOCUMENTS NEEDED
These documents must be available to the intended users of this publication.
AIR FORCE FORMS
AF IMT 3823. Drop Zone Survey.
AF IMT 4304. Drop Zone Control Log.
ARMY PUBLICATIONS
FM 3-97.6. Mountain Operations. 28 November 2000.
FM 90-3. Desert Operations. 24 August 1993.
FM 90-4. Air Assault Operations. 16 March 1987.
FM 90-5. Jungle Operations. 16 August 1982.
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY FORMS
DA Form 2028. Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms.
DA Form 7382-R. Sling Load Inspection Record.
DA Form 7461-R. Internal Net Record. |
3-21.38 | 216 | References
INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS*
QSTAG 585. Marshaling Helicopters in Multinational Land Operations. 23 April 1981.
STANAG 2863. Navigational and Communication Capabilities for Helicopters in Multinational Land
Operations. 26 September 1988.
STANAG 3117. Aircraft Marshaling Signals. 17 October 1985.
STANAG 3281. Personnel Locator Beacons. 3 April 1978.
STANAG 3570. Drop Zones and Extraction Zones--Criteria and Markings. 26 March 1986.
STANAG 3619. Helipad Marking, Third Edition. 20 March 1997.
INTERNET WEB SITES
Some of the documents listed in these References may be downloaded from Army websites:
U.S. Army Publishing Directorate (USAPD)
http://www.usapa.army.mil
Army Doctrine and Training Digital Library (ADTDL)
http://www.adtdl.army.mil
Air Force Publishing
http://afpubs.hq.af.mil/
NATO Online Library (for International Standardization Agreements [ISAs])
http://www.nato.int/docu/standard.htm
* To requisition copies of standardization agreements, send a completed DD Form 1425 (Specifications
and Standards Requisition) to Naval Publications and Forms Center (NPFC), 5801 Tabor Avenue,
Philadelphia, PA 19120. |
3-21.38 | 217 | Index
360-degree turnout (illus), 3-9 air medical evacuation, ASIP. See advanced system
coordination, 2-2, 5-29 improvement program
ACL. See allowable cargo load
plan, 2-3 (illus)
assaults, 2-6, 4-14
ADS. See aerial delivery slings requests, 3-1
assault zone availability report
advanced system improvement air movement table, 2-2 (illus)
(AZAR), 6-47
program (ASIP), 6-23 air routes, 2-10, 2-11 (illus)
assembly
advisories, 1-1, 2-6, 3-8, air traffic control, 3-1 aids, 1-3, 2-1, 2-13, 4-141
3-15 (illus), 4-3, 4-11 aircraft separation points, 4-14
requirements, 3-11
aerial delivery slings,
assault, in an, 2-6
5-3 (illus), 5-10 (illus) base leg (approach),
communications, 3-12
3-8 (illus), 3-9 (illus),
aerial marker, distress, 6-22 electronic warfare, 3-12
3-10
AF forms. See forms establishment of, 2-7
briefing
external loads and, 5-2
air assaults, 2-6, 4-10, 4-14 aids, 2-2
light, 6-27
aircrew mission briefing,
air control points, 2-9, 4-24 phrases, 3-4 (illus)
6-37
positive, 2-6
aircraft DZST, 6-18, 6-37
safety, 3-1
drag coefficient, 5-21 initial preparation, 2-1
spacing techniques, 3-9
load limitations, 5-16 landing site party, 4-12
taxiing aircraft, 3-10
points of attachment, 5-12 operation plan, 4-8,
terms, 3-5 (illus)
separation requirements, B-3 (illus), B-6
traffic pattern legs, 3-8
3-10 radio operator, 4-12
visual signals, 3-12,
taxiing, 3-10 site team leader, 4-12
3-13 (illus)
airdrop, 6-1, 6-3 (illus), 6-4, voice control, 3-1 weather and operational,
E-1 (illus) 2-4
allowable cargo load (ACL),
accuracy, E-2 brownouts, 4-3, 4-32, 5-29
4-31, 5-16, C-12
airspeeds, E-1
static line, 6-12, 6-19, E-1 alternate landing sites, 4-10
capabilities, pathfinder, 1-2
surface wind limits, 6-29
altitudes,
tactically assessed drop cargo
airdrop, 2-2, 6-3 (illus)
zones, on, 6-48 (illus) aircraft, 4-26
civil, 3-6
bag, 5-5 (illus)
Air Force, 1-2 density, 4-9
bulk, 4-22
computed air release drop, 6-2
containers, 5-4
point, 6-40 modes, 2-10
emergency release, 5-19,
drop zone sizes, E-2 terrain flight, 3-17,
5-28
forms. See forms 4-23 (illus)
helicopters, 4-34
instruction, E-1
AN/PRC-119A (SINCGARS) hooks, 5-7, 5-16 thru
support of, 2-8
radio, 6-22 5-18 (illus), 5-26
Verbally Initiated Release
landing site, 3-14 (illus),
System (VIRS), anemometers, 6-19
4-18 (illus)
6-31 (illus), 6-40 (illus) approach path, 4-7, 4-34, 6-18 loads, external, 4-27, 5-1
airlift, 5-19, 6-2, 6-9 (illus), arrival record, 3-12, 3-16, nets, 5-4, 5-5 (illus), 5-20
6-10 (illus), 6-18, 6-48, 4-10, 4-29, 5-29, 6-55, safety, 3-12
E-2 B-2 slope, 4-5
straps, 5-10
artillery, 1-2, 2-7, 5-19,
tie-downs, 5-11, 6-20
5-20 (illus) |
3-21.38 | 218 | Index
“V” formation, 4-8 (illus), Air Force, 6-40 premission, 6-27
4-18 (illus) release point, 2-2 (illus),
4-1, 6-4, 6-28,
CARP. See computed air computed air release point
6-31 (illus), 6-40, 6-54
release point (continued)
drop zone, 6-9 (illus),
CCP. See communications
6-10 coordination (continued)
checkpoint
(illus), 6-13 (illus), signalmen, 3-10, 4-14,
CDS. See container delivery 6-21 (illus) 4-27, 4-34, 5-22, 5-26,
system additional platforms, times, 2-1
6-11 troop-leading procedures,
civil altitude, 3-6
Air Force instructions B-5
clearance, 3-1, 4-7
and, E-1 warning order, 2-1
departure, 3-4 (illus)
bundles, 6-13
horizontal, 4-7,
container delivery DA Forms. See forms
6-36 (illus)
system (CDS), 6-10
instructions, 3-3 danger statements. See safety
heavy equipment, 6-9
obstacles, 2-7, 4-27, 6-36
parachutists, 6-13 daylight assault. See assaults
(illus), 4-6
personnel, 6-9
phrases, 3-4 (illus) debriefing, 6-56
point of impact, E-4
ratio, 6-36, 6-37 (illus) raised angle marker, decentralized operations, D-2
to drop, 6-30
6-21
deception, 1-5, 2-8
to ground level, 4-3
markings, 6-28
to land, 3-2 (illus), 3-10 density altitude, 4-9, 4-31
personnel, 6-9
close air support, A-1 sunset to sunrise, 6-9 departure
(illus) clearance, 3-4 (illus)
close combat attack, A-1
commander, 4-11
COMSEC. See
closed traffic, 3-4 (illus), 3-6 directions, 4-7
communications security
cold weather, 4-28, E-1 and signal security. final coordination, 2-4
instructions, 3-15
communications, 2-8 conduct of operations, 2-6
internal net record, 4-11
checkpoint (CCP), 2-4,
container delivery system, lights, 3-15
3-12, 4-22
6-2 (illus), 6-4 (illus), 6-5 log, 4-11
code letters, 6-30,
(illus), 6-10 (illus), 6-45, obstacle ratio, 4-32
6-43 (illus)
E-2 (illus) obstacles, 3-15
cold weather, 4-28, E-1
record, B-2
compatibility, 1-2, 2-8 contour, terrain, 4-35
routes, 4-10, 4-34, 6-18,
desert, 4-32
control 6-
equipment, 1-2, 3-17
center, 3-12, 4-1, 4-10, time, 6-54, B-5
formats, 3-2
6-29 traffic patterns and, 3-6
ground to air, 1-2, 3-2,
log, 6-54
3-12, 6-23, 4-9, 4-12 desert terrain, 4-32
method of delivery and,
jamming of, 1-5, 2-8 6-4 (illus) direction-finding systems,
jungle, 4-31 enemy, 1-5
conversion charts, PIBAL,
mountain, 2-10, 3-8, 4-33
6-16 (illus), 6-17 (illus) distress marker, aerial, 6-22
net, 3-12, 3-17, 4-13,
4-23, 4-24 coordination. See also signals drift scale, 6-22
radio, AN/PRC-119A air movement phase,
drop altitude, 6-2
(SINCGARS), 6-22 2-2 (illus), 4-10
terrain, 4-28, 4-31, 4-33 checklist, 6-24 (illus) drop heading, 6-31
communications security, 1-5, electronic warfare, 3-12 drop zone
3-17, 6-23 final, 2-4, 4-10 airdrop airspeeds, 6-1
linkup with supported control records, B-2,
computed air release point
unit, B-4 (illus)
(CARP), 6-4
2-4 |
3-21.38 | 219 | Index
coordination checklist, airdrops, 6-47 formulas
6-24 (illus) assembly aids, 1-3, 2-1, D=KAV, 6-14 (illus)
estimation of time, 2-13, 4-141 D=RT, 6-12 (illus)
6-13 (illus), 6-20, 6-25 circular drop zones and, T=D/R, 6-13 (illus)
obstacles, 6-6 6-44
forward throw, 6-18 (illus),
placement, 6-42 (illus) drop zone support team,
E-1, E-4 (illus)
selection factors, 6-1 6-18
drop zone (continued) equipment (continued) glide path, final, 3-11 (illus)
size, 6-9, E-2 (illus) external loads, 4-27, 5-1,
go-around, 3-4
survey, 6-47, 6-49 (illus) 5-18 (illus)
favorable conditions for ground
Drop Zone/Landing Zone
forward throw distances, crew, 4-30
Control Log. See forms
3-18 slope, 4-5, 4-6 (illus),
drop zone support team heavy, 6-2, 6-4, 6-5 4-28
(DZST), 6-18 (illus), tactical plan, 4-1, 4-13,
assault zone availability 6-9 (illus) B-5
report (AZAR), 6-47 drops, 6-18 to air (GTA), 3-2, 3-12,
computed air release operations, 6-14 3-13, 6-23
point, Air Force, 6-40
escape routes, 4-35 ground marked release system
control group, 6-25
(GMRS), E-3 (illus)
coordination checklist, estimate of the situation, 4-1,
Air Force Instructions
6-24 (illus) B-5
and,
ground marked release
extension, traffic pattern, 3-9, E-1
system (GMRS), 6-32
3-10 (illus) control center, 6-29
leader, 6-28
external loads, 4-27, 5-1, 5-18 drop zone, 6-12
missions, 6-19
(illus) forward throw distances,
Drop Zone Survey. See forms E-4 (illus)
extraction, 2-7, 4-2
load drift constants, E-3
electronic warfare, 3-12 markings, 6-37
final glide, 3-11 release point, 6-31 (illus),
emergency. See also safety
6-32
format
cargo release procedures,
control record, B-4 (illus)
5-28
operation plan, B-3 (illus) helicopters, A-1 (illus)
codes, 4-23
AH-64A (Apache), C-4,
conduct, 5-25 formations, “V” type, 4-8
C-5 (illus)
in-flight, 3-16 (illus), 4-18 (illus)
AH-64D (Longbow
landings, 2-5 flight, 4-3, 4-13
Apache), C-6,
lighting, 4-26 (illus)
forms C-7 (illus)
mayday, 3-5
AF IMT 3823, Drop Zone CH-47D (Chinook), C-12,
medical technician, 1-1
Survey, 6-31, 6-46, C-13 (illus)
procedures, helicopter,
6-51 (illus), 6-52 (illus) OH-58D (Kiowa), C-2,
5-29
AF IMT Form 4304, Drop C-3 (illus)
signal mirror, 6-22
Zone/Landing Zone UH-1H (Iroquois), C-8,
tactical, 2-10
Control Log, 6-54, C-9 (illus)
environment 6-57 (illus) UH-60AL (Blackhawk),
cold weather, 4-28, E-1 DA Form 7382, Sling Load C-10, C-11 (illus)
desert terrain, 4-32 Inspection Record,
hitches, 5-4 (illus)
high threat, 2-9 5-29, 5-30 (illus)
jungle terrain, 4-31 DA Form 7461-R, Internal hooks, cargo, 5-7, 5-16 to
mountainous, 2-10, 3-8, Net Record, 4-11, 5-18 (illus), 5-26
4-33 4-12 (illus)
equipment, 1-2, 1-4, 2-1, 2-4,
3-12
airdrop airspeeds, E-1 |
3-21.38 | 220 | Index
hookup and release, 5-22 control center, 4-10, 6-29 mean effective wind, 6-14,
control records, B-2 6-22, 6-55
hookup men, 5-26
density altitude, 4-9, 4-31, measuring, 6-14
horizontal clearance, 4-7, 4-34
medical evacuation
6-36 (illus), 6-37 (illus) ground slope, 4-5,
(MEDEVAC), 3-1, 3-10,
4-6 (illus)
6-28
initial leader, 4-14
assembly points, 4-14 lighting, 4-25, 4-26 (illus) metal air items, 5-4, 5-11
contact, 3-14, 4-11 marking, 2-3, 4-10, 4-13, methods of delivery, 6-4
preparation, 2-1 4-14, (illus), 4-28
methods of entry, 3-6
patterns, 6-32
insertion, 2-5, 4-2, E-3
safety, 6-7 minimum separation
intercept heading, 4-13, “V” formation, requirements, 3-11 (illus)
4-22 (illus) 4-8 (illus),
mirror, signaling, 6-22
4-18 (illus)
Internal Net Record. See forms
multiple, 4-30 mountains, 2-10, 3-8, 4-33
internal net recorder (INR),
operations, 4-13
movement overland, 2-5
4-11, 4-12 (illus), 4-24
landing (continued)
multiple
inverted “Y,” 4-14, 4-25 (illus)
party, 4-12
helicopter operations, 4-34
prevailing wind, 4-7
landing sites, 4-30
jungle terrain, 4-31 security personnel, 4-24
selection of, 4-3
NATO landing “T,” 4-14,
landing, 3-6 symbols, 4-21 (illus)
4-25 (illus)
clearance for, 3-2 (illus),
landing zone operations, 4-22
3-10 navigation, 4-31
See also landing site
formation(s), 2-4, 2-7, aids, 1-2, 4-24
leg (approach), 3-6, 3-8 (illus)
4-3,
night, 2-5, 4-8, 4-9, 4-23,
4-4 (illus), 4-13, 4-23, liaison, 2-2, 2-7, 3-12, 5-29, 4-24, 6-22, 6-42
4-29 (illus) D-1 airdrop altitudes, 6-3
instructions, 3-10, 3-15,
approaches, 4-8 (illus),
light
4-13
4-30
AN/PRC-77, 6-21
landing point (debarkation baton (M-2), 6-22 assault, 2-6
point), 2-5, 3-12, 3-14, emergency, 4-21 (illus) cargo landing site, 4-18
4-1, 4-2 (illus), 4-3 (illus), gun, 4-23 (illus)
4-7 (illus), 4-8 (illus), signals, 3-1, 3-13 (illus) communications, 2-7
4-9 (illus), 4-13, Whelen, 6-21 control center, 4-11
4-19 (illus), 4-25, drop zone support team,
limitations
4-26 (illus), 4-28, 4-35, 6-18
aircraft, 5-1, 5-16
5-1 emergency lighting, 4-26
pathfinder, 1-2
desert operations, 4-32 (illus)
separation requirements, linkup, 2-4, D-3 external loads, 4-27, 5-1,
3-11 (illus) 5-18 (illus)
loads, 5-1
flight leader, 3-15
landing site(s), 4-1. See also external, 3-15, 4-1, 4-9,
formations, 4-20 (illus),
obstacles, landing zone, 4-27, 5-1, 5-19 (illus)
6-9 (illus), E-3 (illus)
slingloads limitations, aircraft
helicopter landing zones,
alternate, 4-10 (ACL),
4-1
approach and departure 5-1, 5-16
infrared navigation aids,
directions, 4-7 safe, 5-9 (illus)
1-3
attached personnel, duties sling. See slingload
insertion by parachute, 2-5
of, 4-12
landing lights, 4-25 (illus)
communications, 4-13 M-2 light baton, 6-22
landing sites, 4-19 thru
checkpoint, 2-4, 2-7,
mask clearance, 6-37 (illus) 4-20 (illus)
3-12, 3-17, 4-22, 4-31 |
3-21.38 | 221 | Index
landing symbols, 4-21 marking, 2-3 (illus), 4-14, initial preparation, 2-1
(illus) 6-36 insertion, 2-4
lighting unit, 6-22 ratio, 4-7, 4-31 internal net, 4-11
multihelicopter operations, reconnaissance, 6-28 limitations, 1-2
4-34 removal of, 2-4, 2-6, 4-3, night assault, 2-6
pilot balloon (PIBAL), 4-5 stay-behind operations,
6-14 to 6-17 (illus) risk assessment and, 6-26 2-6
rotary-wing aerial snow, 3-15, 4-3, 4-28,
patterns,
delivery, 5-3 (illus), 4-29 (illus), 5-24
air traffic, 3-7 (illus)
6-4 (illus) spacing between loads,
legs, 3-8, 3-9 (illus)
signals, 4-19, 6-29 5-1
site team leader, 4-13 terrain contour, 4-35 personnel drops, 6-5 (illus),
slingload operation site, 6-19, 6-25, 6-29
operation
4-17 (illus)
decentralized, D-2 phrases, air traffic control, 3-2,
spacing, 5-1
ground, 2-7, 4-28, 6-48 3-4 (illus)
tactical landing lights,
landing site, 4-13
4-25 PIBAL. See pilot balloon
landing zone, 4-22
touchdown point
mixed, 2-7 pilot advisories, 1-1, 2-6, 3-8,
markings, 4-25 (illus)
multihelicopter, 4-27 3-15 (illus), 4-3, 4-5, 4-10,
night (continued) night, 2-5, 4-8, 4-9, 4-23, 4-11
vision, 4-27 4-24, 6-22, 6-42
pilot balloon (PIBAL), 6-15,
visual navigation aids, 1-3
operation (continued) 6-16 (illus), 6-17 (illus)
night operations, 2-6, 4-7, 4-8 plan, format, B-1,
planning, 2-1
(illus), 4-9, 4-14, 4-17 to B-3 (illus)
coordination, 2-2 thru
4-21 (illus), 4-22, 4-23, plan, tentative, B-6
2-3 (illus), 3-12
4-24, 4-25 (illus), 4-26 stay-behind, 2-6
checklist, 6-24 (illus)
(illus), 4-30, 6-9
organization decentralized operations,
night vision goggles, 1-3, combat, 2-4 D-2
4-3 (illus), 4-27, 6-27 helicopter landing zone, direction finding, 1-5
4-10 final, 2-4, 4-10
numbers, transmittal of, 3-3
drop zone support team, initial preparation, 2-1
(illus)
6-18 liaison, 2-2, 2-7, 3-12,
5-29, D-1
overland movement, 2-5
obstacles, 4-10, 6-6
linkup, 2-4, D-3
advisory information, 3-15
reorganization, 2-1, 2-7
advisory services, 3-8 panel markers, VS-17, 4-14,
security, 1-5, 3-17, 4-24,
air assaults, 4-10 6-6, 6-20, 6-21 (illus),
6-23
approach path, 4-7, 4-34, 6-27, 6-32, 6-37
position of the sun, 4-35
6-18
path, final glide, 3-11
checkpoint, 4-22 preparations, 2-1
pathfinder. See also
ground to air, 1-2, 2-8,
communications, control prevailing wind, 4-7
3-12, 3-14, 4-11, 4-24
center, equipment,
clearance, 2-7, 4-27, 6-36
organizational radios
(illus), 4-6
capabilities, 1-2 AN/PRC-77, 6-21
communications, 3-12
duties, 2-2, 4-10, 5-26, AN/PRC-113 (Have
control center, 3-12, 4-1,
6-27 Quick), 6-23
4-10, 6-4, 6-29, B-2
ground unit(s), 1-6, 2-1, AN/PRC-119A
coordination, 4-7 (illus)
2-4 , 3-1, 3-12, 3-16, (SINCGARS), 6-22
departure, 2-2, 3-15
4-14
drop heading, 6-31 raised angle marker (RAM),
commander, 2-2 thru
height, 3-6, 4-35 6-21 (illus)
2-3 (illus), 2-4, 2-7,
identification of, 4-9
2-9, 4-1, 4-10, 4-28,
jungle, 4-31
4-32, 6-1, 6-43, A-3 |
3-21.38 | 222 | Index
ratio sling set, 5-13 specific tactics team, 1-2
mask clearance, 6-36 straight-in approach, 3-7
staging areas, 2-7
obstacle, 4-7, 4-31 suspended loads, 5-26
tactical light set, 4-27 static discharge wand, 5-24
reach pendant, 5-7
search and rescue, 3-12 static electricity, 4-31, 5-22
reconnaissance party, 4-10
security, 1-2, 2-2, 3-16, 4-13, supplies, 2-6, 4-5, 4-14, 4-30
release point,
4-24, 4-32, A-1. See also rigging, 5-2, 5-10, 5-19
computed air, 6-4, 6-9,
signal security
6-40 support
location, 2-2, 6-31 (illus) separation requirements, Army aviation, 2-7
party, 4-10 3-11 (illus) ground operations, 1-5,
2-7, 4-28, 6-48
reorganization, 2-1, 2-7 signal lights, 3-13 (illus)
ground-to-air
reporting points, 3-9 signal security, 1-5, 3-17, 6-23 communications, 3-12,
6-23
rescue boat, 6-26 signal(s), 1-3, 1-5, 2-3 (illus),
mixed operations, 2-7
3-3 (illus), 3-12,
rigging supplies, 5-20 terminal guidance, 1-5,
3-13 (illus), 4-23, 5-24,
rotary-wing aerial delivery, 5-3 5-26 2-9
(illus), 6-4 (illus), 6-10 arm and hand, 2-8, 4-24, requirements, DZST, 6-25
(illus) 5-24 supporting unit, 5-2
mirror, 5-22
roundsling, 5-8, 5-9 (illus) surface wind, 6-14,
route(s), 2-2, 2-4, 2-9 6-28 (illus), 6-32, 6-54
signal(s) (continued)
air, 2-10, 2-11 (illus) suspended loads, 2-5, 5-27,
no drop, 6-27
approach and departure, 5-54
visual, 3-12, 4-23, 6-30
4-7, 4-34, 6-18
escape, 4-35 signalman, 3-10, 4-14, 4-25, tactical
4-28, 4-30, 4-34, 5-22, assessment, 6-31, 6-47
safety 5-25 (illus)
advisories, 3-8 SIGSEC. See signal security instrument flight, 2-9
air traffic control, 3-1 landing lights, 4-25
airdrop, 6-4, 6-29, 6-48 site assessment, 4-34
taxiing aircraft, 3-10
cargo hook, 5-15, 6-18 sling sets, 5-3, 5-7, 5-12 (illus)
cold weather, 4-28, E-1 coupling link, 5-14 (illus) team(s), 2-9, 3-1, 6-29
continuous support, 2-4, grabhook, 5-14, terminal guidance, 2-9
2-7 5-15 (illus)
desert, 4-32 safety, 5-13 terms, air traffic control,
drop zone, 1-6 3-4 (illus) and 3-5 (illus)
slingload theory, 5-21
emergency cargo release,
terrain, 2-2, 2-5, 2-10, 3-8,
5-28 slingload, 4-17 (illus), 3-16, 4-10, 4-13, 4-22,
equipment, 5-22 4-19 (illus), 5-1. See also 4-23 (illus), 4-25, 4-28,
evacuation to rendezvous hitches 4-31, 4-34, 5-29, 6-18,
point, 5-29 cargo helicopters, C-12 6-36, 6-42, 6-46, B-6
flight formation, 4-13 equipment, 5-2 See also communication
frostbite, 4-30 Inspection Record. See types, 4-31
high drag coefficient, 5-20 forms
theater missile defense, A-1
hookup and release, 5-22 operations, 4-30
night vision goggles, 4-27 safety, 3-12, 5-26 threat. See also advisories
obstacles, 6-8 theory, 5-21 environment, 2-9,
overflight of personnel, types, 5-1, 5-3 (illus) 2-11 (illus), A-2 (illus)
3-12
snow, 3-8, 3-15, 4-3, 4-28, touchdown point, 3-14, 4-1,
power lines and poles, 6-7
4-29 (illus), 5-24, 5-29 4-14, 4-25 (illus), 4-26
rotor wash, 4-30
simultaneous exit, 6-4 spacing techniques, 3-9 |
3-21.38 | 223 | Index
traffic patterns, 3-4 (illus), 3-5 VS-17 panel marker, 4-14, 6-6, direction, 1-2, 3-6, 3-10,
(illus), 3-6, 3-7 (illus), 6-20, 6-21 (illus), 6-27, 5-25, 5-29, 6-32
3-8 (illus), 3-10 (illus) 6-32, 6-37 drift scale, 6-22
erratic, 6-40
training, 1-5, 3-1, 3-12, 4-14,
4-32, 6-1, 6-2 (illus), 6-3 warning order, 2-1, B-5 limits, 6-7
mean effective, 6-14,
(illus), 6-18, 6-26, 6-28 warning statements. See safety
6-22, 6-54
(illus), 6-46, A-2 (illus),
weight measurement, 6-14, 6-19,
E-4 (illus)
aircraft, 4-3 6-25
turnout, 3-9 (illus) external slingload, 5-15
signal(s) (continued)
load, 4-10, 5-5
monitoring of, 6-28
unit responsibilities, 5-2 rough, 5-1
PIBAL. See pilot balloon
safe working, 5-9
prevailing, 4-7
vector count, 6-39 sling set capacity, 5-12 shear, 6-40
standard, 5-18 to 5-19
Verbally Initiated Release speed, 3-3 (illus)
(illus)
System (VIRS), surface, 6-28 (illus), 6-54
6-31 (illus), 6-40 (illus) Whelen light, 6-21 traffic pattern legs,
3-8 (illus)
vertical air currents, 4-34 whiteouts, 4-29 (illus)
turbulence, cause of, 3-8,
“V” formation, 4-14 (illus) wind, 4-32, 4-33, 6-14 4-33, 6-45
anemometer, 6-19 velocity, 1-2, 3-10
voice control, 2-9, 3-1
approach path, 4-34
wind streamer vector count,
conditions, 2-5, 4-14
6-39
departure path and, 4-7 |
3-21.38 | 227 | FM 3-21.38
25 April 2006
0609401
Official:
Distribution: Active Army, Army National Guard, and U. S. Army Reserve: To be
distributed IAW IDN 115893 for FM 3-21.38 (110401, AKA quantity requirement block, |
3-24.2 | 1 | FM 3-24.2
(FM 90-8, FM 7-98)
TACTICS IN
COUNTERINSURGENCY
APRIL 2009
DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTION:
Approved for public release, distribution is unlimited.
HEADQUARTERS |
3-24.2 | 2 | This publication is available at
Army Knowledge Online (www.us.army.mil) and
General Dennis J. Reimer Training and Doctrine |
3-24.2 | 3 | * FM 3-24.2 (FM 90-8, FM 7-98)
Headquarters
Field Manual
Department of the Army
No. 3-24.2 Washington, DC, 21 April 2009
Tactics in Counterinsurgency
Contents
Page
PREFACE ................................................................................................................. viii
INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................... ix
Chapter 1 OPERATIONAL ENVIRONMENT OF COUNTERINSURGENCY ........................... 1-1
Section I—OVERVIEW ............................................................................................. 1-1
Insurgency........................................................................................................... 1-1
Counterinsurgency .............................................................................................. 1-2
Influences on Current Operational Environments ............................................... 1-2
Section II—OPERATIONAL AND MISSION VARIABLES ..................................... 1-3
Operational Variables ......................................................................................... 1-3
Mission Variables ................................................................................................ 1-6
Section III—ANALYSIS OF CIVIL CONSIDERATIONS USING ASCOPE ............. 1-8
Methodology........................................................................................................ 1-8
Civil Considerations Overlay ............................................................................... 1-9
Civil Consideration Matrixes ............................................................................. 1-10
Section IV—EFFECTS ........................................................................................... 1-16
Prerequisites ..................................................................................................... 1-16
Root Causes ..................................................................................................... 1-17
Section V—CULTURAL COMPETENCE AND SITUATIONAL AWARENESS ... 1-18
Culture ............................................................................................................... 1-18
Cultural Capability ............................................................................................. 1-24
Cultural Proficiency Levels................................................................................ 1-24
Culturally Influenced Situational Awareness .................................................... 1-25
Chapter 2 FOUNDATIONS OF INSURGENCY ......................................................................... 2-1
Section I—OVERVIEW ............................................................................................. 2-1
Components ........................................................................................................ 2-1
Manifestations ..................................................................................................... 2-1
Historical Insurgency ........................................................................................... 2-2
Section II—ELEMENTS ........................................................................................... 2-2
Leaders ............................................................................................................... 2-3
Guerrillas ............................................................................................................. 2-3
Distribution Restriction: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
* This publication supersedes FM 90-8, 29 August 1986 and FM 7-98, 19 October 1992. |
3-24.2 | 4 | Contents
Underground ....................................................................................................... 2-4
Auxiliaries ........................................................................................................... 2-4
Mass Base .......................................................................................................... 2-4
Example .............................................................................................................. 2-5
Section III—DYNAMICS .......................................................................................... 2-5
Leadership .......................................................................................................... 2-5
Objective ............................................................................................................. 2-7
Ideology .............................................................................................................. 2-9
Environment and Geography ........................................................................... 2-10
External Support ............................................................................................... 2-11
Internal Support ................................................................................................ 2-12
Phasing and Timing .......................................................................................... 2-15
Organizational and Operational Patterns ......................................................... 2-16
Section IV—STRATEGIES .................................................................................... 2-16
Urban Strategy ................................................................................................. 2-17
Military-Focused Strategy ................................................................................. 2-17
Protracted Popular War Strategy ..................................................................... 2-17
Identity-Focused Strategy ................................................................................ 2-18
Conspiratorial Strategy ..................................................................................... 2-18
Section V—TACTICS ............................................................................................ 2-20
Violent Tactics .................................................................................................. 2-20
Nonviolent Tactics ............................................................................................ 2-23
Section VI—STRENGTHS AND VULNERABILITIES .......................................... 2-24
Strengths .......................................................................................................... 2-24
Vulnerabilities ................................................................................................... 2-25
Chapter 3 FOUNDATIONS OF COUNTERINSURGENCY ...................................................... 3-1
Section I—OVERVIEW ............................................................................................ 3-1
Definition of Counterinsurgency ......................................................................... 3-1
Goal of Counterinsurgency Operations .............................................................. 3-1
Foreign Internal Defense .................................................................................... 3-2
Internal Defense and Development .................................................................... 3-2
Joint, Interagency, Intergovernmental, Multinational .......................................... 3-2
Interagency Coordination in COIN ..................................................................... 3-5
Lines of Effort in Counterinsurgency .................................................................. 3-7
Section II—HISTORICAL THEORIES ..................................................................... 3-9
Robert Thompson's Principles for Successful COIN .......................................... 3-9
David Galula’s Four Laws for Successful COIN................................................. 3-9
Charles Callwell’s Ideas for Successful COIN ................................................. 3-10
Section III—TACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS ........................................................ 3-10
Terrain .............................................................................................................. 3-10
Troops .............................................................................................................. 3-14
Section IV—CLEAR-HOLD-BUILD OPERATIONS .............................................. 3-17
Overview ........................................................................................................... 3-18
Clear ................................................................................................................. 3-19
Hold .................................................................................................................. 3-20
Build .................................................................................................................. 3-21 |
3-24.2 | 5 | Contents
Section V—OTHER MAJOR COIN TACTICAL OPERATIONS ............................ 3-23
Strike Operations .............................................................................................. 3-23
Populace and Resource Control Operations .................................................... 3-24
Section VI—PHASES ............................................................................................. 3-27
Initial Response Phase ..................................................................................... 3-27
Transformation Phase ....................................................................................... 3-28
Fostering Sustainability Phase ......................................................................... 3-28
Chapter 4 COMPREHENSIVE TACTICAL PLANNING IN COIN ............................................. 4-1
Section I—OVERVIEW ............................................................................................. 4-1
End State ............................................................................................................ 4-1
Measures of Performance and Effectiveness ..................................................... 4-2
Planning Horizons ............................................................................................... 4-3
Section II—TACTICAL DESIGN .............................................................................. 4-5
Considerations .................................................................................................... 4-5
The Seven Counterinsurgency Lines of Effort .................................................... 4-6
Section III—MDMP AND TLP ................................................................................ 4-14
Military Decision-Making Process ..................................................................... 4-14
Troop-Leading Procedures ............................................................................... 4-22
Section IV—TARGETING INSURGENTS ............................................................. 4-25
Role in COIN ..................................................................................................... 4-25
Counterinsurgency Targeting Process ............................................................. 4-27
Targeting Battle Rhythm ................................................................................... 4-30
Chapter 5 OFFENSIVE CONSIDERATIONS IN COIN .............................................................. 5-1
Section I—OVERVIEW ............................................................................................. 5-1
Purpose in COIN ................................................................................................. 5-1
Characteristics of the Offense ............................................................................ 5-1
Types of Offensive Operations ........................................................................... 5-2
Offensive Operations in Clear, Hold, Build Operations ...................................... 5-3
Mission Variables in COIN .................................................................................. 5-3
Section II—CIVIL SECURITY AND CONTROL ....................................................... 5-4
Search and Attack ............................................................................................... 5-4
Cordon and Search ............................................................................................. 5-8
Search Operations ............................................................................................ 5-15
Site Exploitation ................................................................................................ 5-17
Raid ................................................................................................................... 5-22
Ambush ............................................................................................................. 5-24
Sniper Operations ............................................................................................. 5-30
COIN Patrols ..................................................................................................... 5-32
Section III—OTHER LINES OF EFFORT .............................................................. 5-38
Support Host Nation Security Forces ............................................................... 5-38
Support to Governance ..................................................................................... 5-38
Restore Essential Services ............................................................................... 5-38
Support to Economic and Infrastructure Development ..................................... 5-39
Conduct Information Engagement .................................................................... 5-39 |
3-24.2 | 6 | Contents
Chapter 6 DEFENSIVE CONSIDERATIONS IN COIN ............................................................. 6-1
Section I—OVERVIEW ............................................................................................ 6-1
Area Defense ...................................................................................................... 6-1
Mobile Defense ................................................................................................... 6-1
Retrograde .......................................................................................................... 6-2
Major Counterinsurgency Operations ................................................................ 6-2
Section II—CIVIL SECURITY AND CONTROL ...................................................... 6-2
Site Selection ...................................................................................................... 6-2
Protection ........................................................................................................... 6-7
Counterinsurgency Bases .................................................................................. 6-8
Planning Considerations for a Base Defense .................................................. 6-10
Combat Outpost Construction Considerations ................................................. 6-12
Base Defense ................................................................................................... 6-14
Counter Ambush ............................................................................................... 6-17
Countering IEDs ............................................................................................... 6-18
Countersniper or Sniper Defeat ........................................................................ 6-26
Countering Drive-By Shootings ........................................................................ 6-30
Section III—OTHER LINES OF EFFORT .............................................................. 6-31
Support Host Nation Security Forces ............................................................... 6-31
Support to Governance .................................................................................... 6-31
Restore Essential Services .............................................................................. 6-31
Support to Economic and Infrastructure Development .................................... 6-31
Conduct Information Engagement .................................................................... 6-32
Chapter 7 STABILITY OPERATIONS CONSIDERATIONS IN COIN ...................................... 7-1
Section I—OVERVIEW ............................................................................................ 7-1
Nature of Stability Operations ............................................................................ 7-1
Clear-Hold-Build Operations .............................................................................. 7-2
Section II—FIVE PRIMARY STABILITY TASKS .................................................... 7-2
Establish Civil Security ....................................................................................... 7-2
Establish Civil Control......................................................................................... 7-5
Support to Governance .................................................................................... 7-15
Restore Essential Services .............................................................................. 7-20
Support to Economic and Infrastructure Development .................................... 7-22
Chapter 8 SUPPORT TO HOST NATION SECURITY FORCES ............................................. 8-1
Section I—BENEFITS, CHALLENGES, AND GOALS ........................................... 8-1
Benefits ............................................................................................................... 8-1
Challenges .......................................................................................................... 8-2
Goals .................................................................................................................. 8-4
Section II—THE FRAMEWORK .............................................................................. 8-4
Developing a Plan .............................................................................................. 8-4
Developing HN Security Forces ......................................................................... 8-7
Employment of Newly Trained Forces in COIN ............................................... 8-23
Appendix A IPB IN COIN .............................................................................................................. A-1
Overview ............................................................................................................. A-1
Signifigant Characteristics in COIN .................................................................... A-2 |
3-24.2 | 7 | Contents
Appendix B READINGS FOR COIN TACTICAL LEADERS IN A TIME-CONSTRAINED
ENVIRONMENT ................................................................................................................................. B-1
Appendix C TWENTY-EIGHT ARTICLES: FUNDAMENTALS OF COMPANY-LEVEL COIN .. C-1
Introduction ........................................................................................................ C-1
What is Counterinsurgency? .............................................................................. C-1
Preparation......................................................................................................... C-2
Golden Hour ....................................................................................................... C-4
Groundhog Day .................................................................................................. C-6
Getting Short ...................................................................................................... C-8
Four “What Ifs” ................................................................................................... C-8
Appendix D TWENTY-SEVEN ARTICLES OF T.E. LAWRENCE .............................................. D-1
GLOSSARY ................................................................................................ Glossary-1
REFERENCES ........................................................................................ References-1
INDEX ................................................................................................................ Index-1
Figures
Figure 1-1. Comparison of insurgent's and counterinsurgent's perspectives of time. .............. 1-6
Figure 1-2. ASCOPE. .............................................................................................................. 1-8
Figure 1-3. Civil considerations overlay. ................................................................................ 1-10
Figure 1-4. Taxonomy of culture. ........................................................................................... 1-19
Figure 1-5. Changes in cultural capability over time. ............................................................. 1-24
Figure 2-1. Insurgency. ............................................................................................................ 2-1
Figure 2-2. Components of Malaysian Insurgency (circa 1950). .............................................. 2-2
Figure 2-3. Organizational elements of an insurgency. ........................................................... 2-3
Figure 2-4. Example insurgent organization. ........................................................................... 2-5
Figure 2-5. Range of popular support. ................................................................................... 2-12
Figure 2-6. Shifts between strategies and phases. ................................................................ 2-20
Figure 3-1. Full-spectrum operations. ...................................................................................... 3-6
Figure 3-2. Example lines of effort for a counterinsurgency. .................................................... 3-8
Figure 3-3. Rheostat approach to the lines of effort.. ............................................................... 3-9
Figure 3-4. Example format for AO platoon requirements worksheet. ................................... 3-15
Figure 3-5. Clear-hold-build framework. ................................................................................ 3-18
Figure 4-1. Lines of effort. ....................................................................................................... 4-8
Figure 4-2. COIN MDMP. ...................................................................................................... 4-16
Figure 4-3. Course of action analysis (wargame). ................................................................. 4-19
Figure 4-4. Example expanded synch(ronization) matrix. ...................................................... 4-21
Figure 4-5. TLPs in COIN. ..................................................................................................... 4-22
Figure 4-6. Lethal and nonlethal targeting. ............................................................................ 4-26
Figure 4-7. Targeting and MDMP. ......................................................................................... 4-27
Figure 4-8. Targeting battle rhythm. ...................................................................................... 4-30
Figure 5-1. Infiltration by company. ......................................................................................... 5-7
Figure 5-2. Infiltration by squad/platoon. ................................................................................. 5-7
Figure 5-3. Comparison of cordon and search methods. ......................................................... 5-8 |
3-24.2 | 8 | Contents
Figure 5-4. Typical organization for cordon and search operations. ......................................5 -11
Figure 5-5. Typical establishment of an urban cordon. ..........................................................5 -13
Figure 5-6. Urban inner cordon. .............................................................................................5 -14
Figure 5-7. Example site exploitation sketch. ........................................................................5 -17
Figure 5-8. Example raid concept. .........................................................................................5 -23
Figure 5-9. Linear formation ambush. ....................................................................................5 -28
Figure 5-10. L-shaped formation ambush. .............................................................................5 -29
Figure 5-11. Satellite patrol movement. .................................................................................5 -37
Figure 6-1. Example format for Vulnerability Prioritization Matrix. ...........................................6-3
Figure 6-2. Example completed CARVER-P Vulnerability Prioritization Matrix. .......................6-3
Figure 6-3. Criteria evaluation tool. ..........................................................................................6-4
Figure 6-4. Facility categories. .................................................................................................6-6
Figure 6-5. Typical US combat outpost design. .....................................................................6 -13
Figure 6-6. Organization of base command. ..........................................................................6 -15
Figure 6-7. Base defense elements forces. ...........................................................................6 -16
Figure 6-8. Key base defense structures. ..............................................................................6 -16
Figure 6-9. Coordinates register. ...........................................................................................6 -20
Figure 6-10. Example pattern-analysis plot sheet. .................................................................6 -21
Figure 6-11. Example activities matrix. ..................................................................................6 -22
Figure 6-12. Example association matrix. ..............................................................................6 -23
Figure 6-13. Example link diagram. .......................................................................................6 -23
Figure 6-14. Types of snipers. ...............................................................................................6 -27
Figure 7-1. Example BCT using LOEs. ....................................................................................7-2
Figure 7-2. Well-equipped snap checkpoint layout. ...............................................................7 -10
Figure 7-3. Typical enduring checkpoint layout. .....................................................................7 -11
Figure 7-4. Legitimate governance. .......................................................................................7 -15
Figure 8-1. Partnership benefits. .............................................................................................8-2
Figure 8-2. Host nation contributions. ......................................................................................8-2
Figure 8-3. Characteristics of well-trained HN security forces. ................................................8-5
Figure 8-4. Possible duties of the advisor team. ......................................................................8-7
Figure 8-5. Seven framework tasks. ........................................................................................8-8
Figure 8-6. Example format for readiness assessment. ...........................................................8-9
Figure 8-7. Augmentation of an example unit. .......................................................................8 -18
Figure 8-8. Principles of advising. ..........................................................................................8 -21
Figure 8-9. Team-building process. .......................................................................................8 -22
Figure 8-10. Example Host Nation security force AAR—operation summary. ....................... 8-24
Figure A-1. The steps of IPB. ................................................................................................. A-1
Figure A-2. Significant terrain characteristics common to COIN operations. .......................... A-4
Figure A-3. Societal considerations. ....................................................................................... A-6 |
3-24.2 | 9 | Contents
Tables
Table 1-2. Example area matrix............................................................................................. 1-11
Table 1-3. Example structures matrix. ................................................................................... 1-12
Table 1-4. Example capabilities matrix. ................................................................................. 1-13
Table 1-5. Example organizations matrix. ............................................................................. 1-14
Table 1-6. Example people (means of communications) matrix. ........................................... 1-15
Table 1-7. Example event matrix. .......................................................................................... 1-16
Table 2-1. Insurgent strengths and countermeasures. .......................................................... 2-24
Table 2-2. Insurgent vulnerabilities and considerations. ........................................................ 2-26
Table 3-1. US governmental organizations. ............................................................................ 3-4
Table 4-1. COIN long-range planning cycle. ............................................................................ 4-4
Table 4-2. COIN mid-range planning cycle. ............................................................................. 4-4
Table 4-3. COIN short-range planning cycle............................................................................ 4-5 |
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