FM
stringclasses 43
values | page
int64 1
477
| text
stringlengths 6
8.45k
|
|---|---|---|
3-99 | 55 | Airborne Assault Planning
and staffs share their understanding of the situation, and participate in course of action development and
decisionmakingfordevelopmentofthehigherheadquartersplanororder.
3-24. Parallel planning is two or more echelons planning for the same operation through the sequential
sharingofinformationfromthehigher headquarters beforethe higherheadquarterspublishesitsoperations
plan or operation order (OPORD). It requires significant interaction between echelons. During parallel
planning, subordinate units do not wait for their higher headquarters to publish an order to begin
developingtheirownplansandorders.
INFORMATIONSHARING
3-25. The higher headquarters continuously shares information concerning future operations with
subordinate units through warning orders (WARNORDs) and other means. Frequent communication
between commanders and staffs and sharing of information (such as intelligence preparation of the
battlefield(IPB)products)helpssubordinateheadquartersplan.
3-26. Generally, the higher the headquarters has more time and staff resources available to plan and
explore options. They are sensitive not to overload subordinates with information and planning
requirements. Higher headquarters provide subordinates with information and involve them in the
development of those plans and concepts that have the highest likelihood of being adopted or fully
developed.
3-27. Commanders provide plans and orders down the chain of command. However, for airborne
operations, higher headquartersoften cannotcomplete their plans untilsubordinate units have conducted a
backbriefoftheirplansas a changeinoneplanimpactsotherplans.
3-28. Parallel echelons of the airlift and ABNAF units coordinate continuously from the time of the joint
planning conference until the operation is executed or cancelled. They exchange liaison officers to act as
advisorsand coordinatorsimmediatelyuponreceiptof ordersto participate in anairborne assault. ABNAF
liaison officers must be familiar with all aspects of the airborne assault. They must attend briefings and
conferences, and must be provided with adequate transportation and communications assets. Liaison
officersnormallyareexchangedbetweentheABNAFand—
(cid:122) Armyunitssupportingtheoperationfromoutsidetheobjectivearea.
(cid:122) Closeairsupportandairliftelements.
(cid:122) Linkupforces.
(cid:122) Specialoperationsforces.(RefertoFM 3-05formoreinformation.)
3-29. Thespecificdutiesofliaisonofficers(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:650)
(cid:122) Representtheirunitheadquartersattheheadquarterstowhichtheyaredetailed.
(cid:122) Actasadvisorstotheheadquartersonmatterspertainingtotheirowncommands.
(cid:122) Coordinatemattersinvolvingdualresponsibility.
(cid:122) Discussthetime,place,personnelrequired,andmaterialtobecoveredatcoordinationmeetings
andwhennecessaryholdcoordinationbriefings,bothatthejointandservicelevel.
(cid:122) Examineparallelorderstoensurecompleteagreementofplansandarrangements.
(cid:122) Assessand plan for the availabilityand procurement ofequipment and facilitiesrequired from
thehigherheadquarters.
(cid:122) Attend all joint conferences, have active knowledge with the agreements reached by the
commandersandwiththeoperationsplan.
(cid:122) Preparejointreports.
(cid:122) Obtaincopiesofthemarshallingplanandtheparkingdiagramfortheirunits.
(cid:122) Knowthe locationand capacityof allinstallationsat the airfieldsand air landingfacilitiesthat
concerntheirunits.
(cid:122) Reviewtheplansandarrangementsforreplacementaircraftiflastminutefailuresoccur; prepare
toassistthemovementofABNAFfromabortingaircrafttoreserveaircraft. |
3-99 | 56 | Chapter 3
(cid:122) Brief guides, who are furnished by the ABNAF, on airfield traffic measures and locations of
aircraft to be loaded. At dispersed locations, an ABNAF representative is located at the
coordinationfacilitytoperformthisfunctionandtoactasindividualliaison.
3-30. Commanders exchange liaison officers on a continuous duty status at echelons higher than ABNAF
level. At BCT and lower echelons, the S-3 liaison officers, the S-3 Air, or unit air movement officer can
performtheseduties.Foroperations oflessthan ABNIBCTsize,commandersexchangeliaisonofficersas
needed.
3-31. When the ABNAF is a follow-on force after a special operations force, it requests a liaison before
arrival in the operational area. During the planning phase, a special operations force liaison officer is
attached to the ABN IBCT along with all communications assets needed for immediate use with special
operationsforces assetsatjoint specialoperations taskforce (JSOTF)and atthe objectivearea. The signal
plan must standardize not only frequencies and call signs, but address visual signals, and day and night
operationsaswell.(RefertoFM 3-05formoreinformation.)
3-32. Subordinatecommandersmustconductconfirmationbriefsandbackbriefsonallaspectsoftheirplan
to the next higher commander. The backbrief differs from the confirmation brief (a briefing subordinates
give their higher commander immediately following receipt of an order) in that subordinate leaders are
giventimeto completetheirplans.(Referto FM 6-0formore information.)Thisensuresthatunitplansare
fullycoordinated and inconcert withthe commander’sintent.Commandersconductconfirmation briefs or
backbriefs on a terrain model, a sand table, or a map. Planning for an airborne assault is a dynamic, fast-
changingprocess. A change inone planimpactsother plans. Plans remain indraft until everycommander
in the chain has conducted a confirmation brief or backbrief. All commanders must inform their
subordinatesofchanges.
3-33. Rehearsals are essential to the success of an airborne operation. They are conducted at every level,
involvebothair, and ground components. Theyare performed onterrainsimilar tothe objective and under
thesame conditions. Rehearsals maybe conducted on a sand table, terrainmodel, mock-up, or map, andif
time permits a full-scale rehearsal. (See FM 6-0.) Rehearsals specific to airborne operations are listed in
orderofpriorityasfollows:
(cid:122) Groundtacticalplan.
(cid:122) Landingplanwithemphasistoassembleonthe dropzone.
(cid:122) Airmovementplanwithemphasisonaircraftloading.
3-34. Leaders of the ABNAF must be able to make decisions to support the ABNTFC’s intent. Plans and
intelligencemustbedisseminatedtothelowestlevelconsistentwithsecurityrequirements. (RefertoFM 2-
0 for more information.) The staff follows securityrequirements in disseminating the intelligence required
forsubordinateunits to developtheirplans.Intelligenceisprovidedona need-to-knowbasis. Asexecution
approaches, units are provided with more detailed intelligence. The commitment of an ABNAF is sudden
and complete; there is no time for the commander to orient forces immediately after landing. Plans and
intelligencemustbethoroughlybriefedbeforetheoperationbegins.
WARNINGORDERS
3-35. To conduct an airborne assault, planning begins when the designated ABN IBCT receives a
WARNORD from the ABNTF. The WARNORD specifies the ABNAFC and ABNTF task organization
and allows the ABN IBCT staff to start initial planning and request supporting element liaison officers to
reporttotheABNIBCTheadquartersearlyintheplanningphase.
3-36. Once the ABNAFC receives the WARNORD, the planning process begins. This directive or
WARNORDincludes(cid:650)
(cid:122) Taskorganization.
(cid:122) Missioncommandfortheoperation.
(cid:122) Highercommander’s conceptofthe operation(includestentative scheme of maneuver/primary
andalternatedropzonesandlandingzones).
(cid:122) Missionsforsubordinateunits.
(cid:122) Timeanddurationoftheoperation(includesgeneraltimeline). |
3-99 | 57 | Airborne Assault Planning
(cid:122) Intelligenceandsecurityrequirements.
(cid:122) Allocationanddistributionofairliftassets.
(cid:122) Unitdeploymentlistandsequence.
(cid:122) Departureairfields,remotemarshallingbases,andintermediatestagingbases.
(cid:122) Initialestimateonrequirementsforairborneintelligence,surveillance,and reconnaissance;close
airsupport;navalgunfire;andunmannedaircraftsystemsupport.
(cid:122) Signalrequirementsandinstructions.
(cid:122) Linkup,withdrawal,andfollow-onforcesconcepts.
3-37. Other WARNORDs and fragmentary orders (FRAGORDs) should follow as the ABNAF staff and
commanderworkthroughthereverseplanningsequence.
CONTROL MEASURES
3-38. ABNAFCs employ the full range of doctrinal control measures and graphics to delineate
responsibilities, deconflict operations, safeguard friendly forces and civilians, and promote unity of effort.
These measures include, but are not limited to boundaries that circumscribe operational area or area of
operation, control measures to facilitate joint task force or ABNTF maneuver, fire support coordination
measures(FSCMs);andairspacecoordinatingmeasures(ACMs).
AIRHEAD
3-39. An airhead is a designated area in a hostile or potentially hostile operational area that, when seized
and held, ensures the continuous air landing of troops and materiel and provides the maneuver space
necessaryforprojectedoperations(JP 3-18). Duetothenature oftheairhead(aperimeter defense)and the
required continuous airflow into the airhead, airspace coordinating measures and FSCMs must be
established throughout the joint operational area, to include the ABNAF area of operation (drop zones,
landingzones,assaultobjectives,andtheairheadline).
3-40. During the initial stages of an airborne assault and before adequate ground communications can be
established, coordination and control of fire support are accomplished from an airborne command and
control platform. On landing, ABNTF and subordinate maneuver units establish contact with the airborne
command and control platform through the tactical air control party (TACP) or fire support officer. Fire
support, such as close air support, beyond that available from organic or direct support assets would be
requested from the airborne platform. Prioritization and coordination of requests are accomplished by the
groundforcecommander’srepresentativeintheairborneplatform.Responsibilities(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:650)
(cid:122) Preventfratricideofgroundpersonnel.
(cid:122) Ensurethatrequestsdonotinterferewithincomingserials,otheraircraft,ornavaloperations.
(cid:122) Determinemeansoffiresupportcoordination.
(cid:122) Determine added safetyor control measures required; transmit them to the appropriate ground
elements.
3-41. Terminal guidance aids and control measures are used on the ground in the objective area to assist
and guide incoming airlift aircraft to the designated drop zones and landing zones. Combat control teams
comprised of USAF personnel are organized, trained, and equipped to provide aircraft terminal guidance.
Armyteams fromthe long-range surveillance company, a divisional or corps asset, are organized, trained,
andequippedtodeployintotheobjectiveareaandconductreconnaissanceandsurveillancetasksbeforethe
deploymentoftheairborneforce.
3-42. For airspace coordination, ABNAF staff establishes contact with the appropriate flight, provides
essential information, and then hands the flight off to the appropriate TACP or forward air controller for
mission execution. At that point, the mission is conducted the same way as conventional operations. If
naval gunfire or air support isavailable, it isessentialthat a naval gunfire liaisonofficer be presentinthe
airborneplatformtoperform a similarfunction.
3-43. The area air defense commander (AADC) is responsible for integrating the joint force air defense
effort. All available surface-to-air assets should be incorporated into the overall air defense plan and |
3-99 | 58 | Chapter 3
comply with procedures and weapons control measures established bythe AADC. The AADC exercises a
degree of control of all systems through established guidelines, determines weapons control status, and
joint force commander-approved procedural controls. (Refer to FM 3-01 and JP 3-01 for more
information.)
3-44. Once adequate airspace ground controlcapabilitieshave beenestablished in the airhead, fire support
coordination responsibilities are passed from the airborne platform to the ground to be conducted as in
other operations. (There is no doctrinal time for this transfer.) In some situations, this cannot occur;
however, in most cases once a BCT main or tactical command post is on the ground, the transfer takes
place.
PERMISSIVEANDRESTRICTIVECONTROLMEASURES
3-45. Firesupportcoordinationmeasures(FSCMs)bothpermissiveandrestrictive,areemployedtoensure
the safety of friendly personnel, to synchronize all fire support means, and to permit maximum flexibility
with minimum restrictions on the employment of fire support. A common target and map grid system is
established to permittransmissionoftargetand friendlyunitlocations.This iscritical if standard mapsare
not available. Provisions must be made to identify friendly force locations through the employment of
smoke,panels,beacons,orotherdevices.(RefertoFM 3-90-1 formoreinformation.)
DETERMINE GO/NO-GO CRITERIA
3-46. Abort criteria is a predetermined set of circumstances, based on risk assessment, which makes the
success of an operation no longer probable; thus, the operation is terminated. These circumstances can
relate to changes in safety, equipment or troops available, preparation or rehearsal time, weather, enemy,
shaping operations prior to execution of the airborne assault, or a combination of the above. In the
development of a course of action (during the preparation and deployment phase), airborne assault go/no-
gocriteriaisdeveloped.Criteriaconsiderationsinclude,butarenotlimitedto:
(cid:122) Minimumforce:
NumberofC130sorC17s.
(cid:132)
Number lost of critical chalks, Infantry battalion equivalent, BCT assault command post,
(cid:132)
indirectfiresystems,andmissioncommandvehicleplatforms.
Heavy-dropcriticalcapabilityloss
(cid:132)
(cid:122) Intelligence/Pre-assaultfires(yes/no):
Teamreconno-fireareasestablished.
(cid:132)
Light airfield repair package (LARP)— airfield damage is repairable with available
(cid:132)
equipment.
Enemy surface to air assets neutralized; self-propelled anti-aircraft gun on objective
(cid:132)
neutralized.
Indirectsystemsonobjectivedestroyed.
(cid:132)
Engineerforcesonobjectivedestroyed,ornolargerthan .
(cid:132)
Airforces—airsuperiorityachieved.
(cid:132)
(cid:122) Weather:Windsbelow13knots—Heavyequipment-17knots—Personnel-13knots.
(cid:122) Firesupportassets/airspacecoordinatingmeasures:
Closeairsupportassetsareonstationwithsufficientloitertimeuntil P-hour+_ .
(cid:132)
Electronicwarfareassetsonstation.
(cid:132)
Airspacecoordinatingmeasuresactive.
(cid:132)
(cid:122) Missioncommandsufficientassetsuntil P-hour+_ .
AIRFIELD OPENING
3-47. When developing an operation that may include an airfield opening, entry force tactical planners
must have an understanding of the planning factors to consider for airfield opening in a hostile or
permissive environment. Planners with specific airfield opening expertise to include the designation of a |
3-99 | 59 | Airborne Assault Planning
seniorairfield authorityareintegratedasearlyaspossible intheplanningprocess.(Refer toFM 3-17.2 formore
information.)
PLANNINGANDASSESSMENT
3-48. Planning for airfield opening begins at the strategic level where forces are assigned. Once
employmentforcesareassignedbythejointtaskforce,moredetailedplanningisconductedincoordination
with the entry force and USAF contingency response group— first-responder airfield opening units. As
combatantcommandersidentifyairfieldsfor useanddirecttheirstaffstogeneratetheappropriateplans,the
missions and aircraft for which the airfield will be opened are determined and airfield capabilities
areassessed.
3-49. Airfieldassessmentbeginswithairfieldopeningplanning,whichshouldbeginassoonasthemission
is assigned. Many tools are available to planners to begin the airfield assessment prior to actual arrival at
the field. After arriving at the airfield, the airfield assessment team verifies the information gained during
pre-mission planning with assault forces, collects additional data, and provides a recommendation to the
airfieldopeningforces.
3-50. An airfield assessment should be accomplished rapidly to verify information and evaluate or obtain
any items that were not pre-assessed. Assessments address areas such as runways, ramps, taxiways, force
protection, communications, facilities, and provide a recommendation to appropriate decision makers on
thesuitabilityoffutureairfieldoperations(fixed- orrotary-wing).
OPERATIONANDTRANSITION
3-51. Each contingency response group is scalable to meet specific tasking requirements. Primary
capabilities/tasks include: airfield assessment, contingency response element command and control
/port/quick-turn aircraft maintenance, force protection, intelligence, limited airfield security, airfield
management and air traffic control, communications, fuels, medical, financial management, contracting,
andsupply.
3-52. Whentheresponsibilityforallor a partofanairfield changesfromone organizationtoanother,there
is arequirementfor a detailedanddeliberatetransfer.Likely transitionstooccurduringthelifecycleof an
airfieldare(cid:650)
(cid:122) Fromairfieldseizuretoairfieldopening.
(cid:122) Fromairfieldopeningtofollow-onorsustainment.
(cid:122) Fromairfieldsustainmenttoclosureorturnovertothehostnation.
SECTION IV – SHAPING OPERATIONS
3-53. Shaping operations establish conditions for the decisive operation through effects on the enemy,
population, and terrain. Airborne operations may be designed as a sudden attack in force to achieve
decisive results or as a shaping operation to create and preserve conditions for the success of a larger
operationor campaign.When planningindicatesthe futurerequirementfor anairborne assault,appropriate
shapingoperationsoractivitiesemphasizeidentifyingandneutralizinganenemy’santi-accesscapabilities.
CREATE CONDITIONS
3-54. The ABNAF commander and his staff determine the exact conditions required according to the
mission variables of mission, enemy, terrain and weather, troops and supportavailable-time available, and
civil considerations (METT-TC), to include the degree of acceptable risk with regard to each condition.
Setting conditions is not limited to conducting SEAD and preparation fires. It requires the participation of
numerousstaffs,units,cells,andboardsindifferentechelonsandservices.
3-55. Condition setting is an interactive process. The ABNAFC’s situational understanding determines
what part of the situation must change to ensure the success of the airborne assault. The ABNAFC tasks
availablereconnaissance forcesand surveillance assetsto detectthe locationofthose enemy systemsthat |
3-99 | 60 | Chapter 3
unacceptably endanger the operation’s success. This allows fire support systems to target and deliver
effectivefiresagainstthoseenemysystems.
3-56. The most effective reconnaissance combines ground, aerial, and surveillance systems to provide
constant coverage and multiple assessments of enemy activities throughout the objective area prior to the
airborne assault. Surveillance is the systematic observation of aerospace, surface, or subsurface areas,
places, persons, or things, by visual, aural, electronic, photographic, or other means (JP 3-0). The
commanderusesavailablereconnaissance forcesandsurveillanceassets,toincludeavailablejointsystems,
to provide information that increases the accuracy of his situational understanding during planning and
preparation.
3-57. The ABNAFC tasks the other warfighting functions to continue planning and preparing for the
operation while employing service and joint fires to enable conditions. The ABNAFC requests assistance
from higher echelons if there are not sufficient organic assets and information to accomplish the mission.
The ABNAFC then assesses the progress of all the warfighting functions. This process repeats until the
commander is satisfied with the set conditions or operational necessity forces him to either cancel or
conducttheairborneassault.
3-58. Planning considerations should encompass special operations forces. Special operations forces may
beinsertedoralreadybeoperatingintheobjectiveareaand become keycomponentsoftheinitialeffortto
shape and set conditions. Special operations forces regional expertise and environment preparation
activitiessupportwellinadvanceofairborneassaultplanningandexecution.Specialoperationsforces may
be introduced to the area well in advance of a possible assault to develop or prepare an area for airborne
assault.
PRESERVE CONDITIONS
3-59. As the airborne assault extends in time and geography, extended lines of operations increase the
assaultunit’svulnerabilitytoenemycapabilitiesdesignedtointerrupttheexpansion orreinforcementofthe
airhead or lodgment and follow-on operations. As the ABNAF expands its influence within an area of
operation, the ABNAF becomes the primary means of setting conditions for operations that seize the
initiative in other contested domains. The ABNAF leverages its presence to defeat enemycapabilities that
limitfreedomofaction.
3-60. Continued high operational tempo and pressure preserves condition to hinder the enemy’s ability to
regroup, reconstitute capabilities, or reconfigure forces to support new plans. A primary means of
maintainingcontinuouspressure isthecontinuousandrapidcyclingofjointenablersandcapabilitiesunder
operationalleveldirection.
3-61. To rapidly transition from entry operations to follow-on operations, intermediate staging bases
remain a critical part of baseline condition setting to: enable shorter range recycling of intra-theater lift
capabilities, reorganization and reconfiguration of capabilities to meet evolving assault force demands and
recalibrationofbattleandlogisticalrhythms. |
3-99 | 61 | Chapter 4
Ground Tactical Plan
The ground tactical plan is the base from which commanders develop all other plans.
They must complete the ground tactical plan before finalizing the landing plan, the
air movement plan, and the marshalling plan. It provides the commander’s intent, his
concept of the operation, fire support plan, and task organization of the units making
the initial airborne assault. Ground combat following airborne operations is
conducted along conventional lines but under unusual conditions. Once these
conditions are appreciated, the tactics and methods of ground combat can be applied
after the executionofairborneoperations.
SECTION I – ELEMENTS
4-1. The ground tacticalplanfollowinganairborne assaultcontainsessentiallythe same elementsasother
offensive operations. The elements, driven by the evaluation of the mission variables of METT-TC, are
prepared to capitalize on speed and mobility to achieve surprise. Elements critical to the ground tactical
planinclude(cid:650)
TASK ORGANIZATION
4-2. Task organization is a temporary grouping of forces designed to accomplish a particular mission
(ADRP 5-0). Once ABNAFC determines the principal features of the ground assault plan (scheme of
maneuver and fire support), he task organizes subordinate units to execute assigned missions and
determines boundaries. To ensure unity of effort or to increase readiness for combat, part or all of the
subordinate units of a command can be formed into one or more temporary tactical groupings (teams or
taskforces),eachunder a designated commander.Infantryunitsusuallyformthenucleustacticalgroupings
of the team; Infantry unit commanders lead the teams. These teams are tailored for the initial airborne
assault by the attachment of required supporting units. They are attached as soon as possible in the
marshalling area. Many of the units detach as soon as centralized control can be regained and the parent
unitheadquarterscanbe established onthe ground. After the taskorganizationof Soldiersfor the airborne
assault is announced, units organize into assault, follow-on, and rear echelons. (Refer to chapter 2 of this
publicationformoreinformation.)
(cid:122) Assault echelon. The assault echelon is composed of those forces required to seize the assault
objectivesandtheinitialairhead,plustheirreservesandsupporting Soldiers.
(cid:122) Follow-onechelon.The airborneforcedoes not needthefollow-onechelonintheobjective area
duringtheinitialassault,butdoesneeditforsubsequentoperations.Whenneeded,thefollow-on
echelonentersthe objectiveareaassoonaspracticalbyair,surface movement,or a combination
ofthetwo.
(cid:122) Rear echelon. The rear echelon includes the part of an airborne unit that is not considered
essential for initial combat operations. It includes people left at its rear base to perform
administrativeandsupportfunctionsthatcannotbedoneefficientlyinthecombatarea.
MISSION STATEMENT
4-3. The ABNAFC’s mission statement is a short sentence or paragraph that describes the ABNAF‘s
essentialtask(or tasks) and purpose— a clear statementof the actionto be takenand the reasonfor doing
so. The mission is analyzed in terms of the commander‘s intent two echelons up, mission statement
(mission essential task and purpose) of the higher headquarters, specified tasks, and implied tasks. The |
3-99 | 62 | Chapter 4
mission ofadjacent units must be analyzed to understand how they contribute to the decisive operation
oftheirhigherheadquarters.
COMMANDER’S INTENT
4-4. The ABNAF commander’s intent is a clear and concise expression of the purpose of the operation
and the desired military end state that supports mission command, provides focus to the staff, and helps
subordinate and supporting commanders act to achieve the commander’s desired results without further
orders,evenwhentheoperationdoesnotunfoldasplanned(JP 3-0).ABNAFplannersreceive theABNAF
commander’sintentas soon aspossibleafterthe mission is received.Evenifthe groundtacticalplan is not
complete,airborneassaultplanningoftenbeginsaftertheABNAFCissueshisintent.
CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS
4-5. Theconceptofoperations is a statementthatdirectsthe manner in whichsubordinate units cooperate
toaccomplishthe missionandestablishesthesequence ofactionstheforcewilluse toachieve the end state
(ADRP 5-0). The concept of operations expands on the commander’s intent by describing how the
commanderwantsthe forcetoaccomplishthe mission. Itstatestheprincipaltasksrequired,theresponsible
subordinate units, and how the principal tasks complement one another. Commanders and staff use the
operationalframeworktohelpconceptualizeanddescribetheirconceptofoperation.
4-6. The operational framework proves the commander with basic conceptual options for visualizing and
describing operations in time, space, purpose, and resources. Commanders are not bound by any specific
frameworkfor conceptuallyorganizingoperations, and may use one ofthree conceptual frameworkslisted
below or in combination. These operational frameworks apply equally to both operational and tactical
actions,andarelistedasfollows:
(cid:122) Thedeep-close-securityframeworktodescribetheoperationintimeandspace.
(cid:122) Thedecisive-shaping-sustainingframeworktoarticulatetheoperationintermsofpurpose.
(cid:122) Themainandsupportingeffortsframeworktodesignatetheshiftingprioritizationofresources.
4-7. The deep-close-security operational framework has historically been associated with terrain
orientationbutcan beapplied to temporal andorganizationalorientationsas well.Deep operationsinvolve
effortstopreventuncommittedenemyforcesfrombeingcommittedin a coherent manner.Close operations
are operations that are within a subordinate commander’s area of operations. Security operations involve
efforts to provide an early and accurate warning of enemy operations and to provide time and maneuver
spacewithinwhichtoreacttotheenemy.
4-8. The decisive-shaping-sustaining framework lends itself to a broad conceptual orientation. The
decisive operation is the operation that directly accomplishes the mission (ADRP 3-0). It determines the
outcome of a major operation, battle, or engagement. A shaping operation is an operation that establishes
conditions for the decisive operationthrougheffects on the enemy, other actors, and the terrain(ADRP 3-
0). A sustaining operation is an operation at any echelon that enables the decisive operation or shaping
operationbygeneratingandmaintainingcombatpower(ADRP 3-0).
4-9. The main and supporting efforts operational framework—simpler than other organizing
frameworks—focuses on prioritizing effort among subordinate units. Therefore, leaders can use the main
and supporting efforts with either the deep-close-security framework or the decisive-shaping-sustaining
framework.Themaineffortis a designatedsubordinate unitwhose missionat a givenpointintimeis most
critical to overall mission success (ADRP 3-0). It usually is weighted with the preponderance of combat
power. A supporting effort is a designated subordinate unit with a missionthat supportsthe success of the
maineffort(ADRP 3-0).(RefertoADRP 3-0 for moreinformation.)
TASKS TO SUBORDINATES
4-10. Taskstosubordinate unitsdirectindividualunitstoperformspecifictasks.Theyare a clearlydefined
and measurableactivityaccomplishedbyindividualsandorganizationsandcontributetoaccomplishingthe
ABNAFmissionorotherrequirements.Theassignmentofa taskincludes notonlythetask(what),butalso |
3-99 | 63 | Ground Tactical Plan
the unit (who), place (where), time (when), and purpose (why). The purpose ofeach task should nest with
completinganother task, achievinganobjective, or attaininganend state conditionto the airborne assault.
Exampleofactivitiesinclude(cid:650)
(cid:122) Movement and maneuver. Maneuver units conduct an airborne assault and attack to destroy
enemy forces on objectives. Units such as scouts, cavalry, long-range surveillance and special
operationsforces conductreconnaissanceand surveillanceneartheobjectivearea,facilitatejoint
fires and close combat attack against identified enemy forces in the objective area, and conduct
limitedoffensivetaskstointerdictenemyforces.
(cid:122) Intelligence. Ensures the information collection effort focuses on drop zones and landing zones
and the objective area to identify enemy forces for targeting by fires and aviation assets to set
conditionsforairborneassaultexecution.
(cid:122) Fires. While cannon artillery is part of the ABNAF, the primary support is close air support,
naval gun fire and organic mortars initially on conduct of the airborne assault. Upon airland or
follow-on force arrival, the field artillery battalion provides fire support on identified enemy
positions on or near drop zones and landing zones to neutralize enemy forces and help set
conditionsforfollow-onoperations.
(cid:122) Sustainment. Once the lodgment or airhead is secure for air-land or follow-on forces to arrive,
forward logistics element from the brigade support battalion can begin casualty evacuation,
resupply, equipment recovery, and refueling of vehicle and aviation assets in support of the
groundtacticalplan.
(cid:122) Missioncommand. The ABNAFC maydeployinan airspacecontrolaircraftto providemission
commandoversightofthemission.
SECTION II – PLAN DEVELOPMENT
4-11. The ABNAFCbegins to visualize the applicationof his ground tacticalplanto his area ofoperation
by defining the tactical problem and then begins a process of determining feasible solutions with his
planning staff. The ground tactical plan incorporates considerations for those actions to be taken in the
objective area, for example, duringtheassaultandsubsequent operations phases.This isthefirstplantobe
finalized.Itmustbekeyedontheaccomplishmentofthecommander’s conceptoftheoperation.
4-12. Thegroundtacticalplanisdeveloped asothertacticalplansusing theprocedureas delineatedin FM
3-90.6, Brigade Combat Team. However, the initial goal of airborne operations is the establishment of an
airhead and its subsequent defense. Essential elements of the ground tactical plan are developed in the
followingsequence:
(cid:122) Assaultobjectivesandairheadline(selectedconcurrently).
(cid:122) Airheadandsecurityareaboundaries(developedsequentially).
(cid:122) Assaultforceandsecurityforcetaskorganization(developedsequentially).
MISSION VARIABLES OF METT-TC
4-13. Whenthe ABNAFisalertedfordeploymentandassigned a mission,itsassignedhigherheadquarters
provides an analysis of the operational environment. That analysis includes the following operational
variables:political, military, economic, social, information, infrastructure, physical environment, and time.
The mission variables of METT-TC are used to filter the broader scope of operational variables into
variables that directly affect a specific mission. The ABNAFC uses mission variables to gather relevant
information for his mission analysis. This analysis enables him to combine operational variables and
tactical-level information with knowledge about local conditions relevant to the mission. The following
paragraphs address the mission variables of mission, enemy, terrain and weather, troops and support
available-timeavailableandcivilconsiderations(METT-TC).(RefertoADRP 5-0 formoreinformation.)
MISSION
4-14. The missionofanairborneInfantrybattalionor BCTisto closewiththe enemybymeansoffireand
movementtodestroyorcapturehim,ortorepelhisassaultbyfire,closecombat,andcounterattack.These |
3-99 | 64 | Chapter 4
missions usually require the seizure and defense of objectives and surrounding terrain. Airborne assault
forcesrelystronglyontheelementofsurprise.
ENEMY
4-15. Commanders analyze all available information to determine the enemy’s situation. The following
factorsareconsidered:
(cid:122) Enemymorale,leadership,andprobableintentions.
(cid:122) Enemycapabilities.
(cid:122) Enemytactics.
(cid:122) Probableenemyreactionstoanairborneassault.
Theenemythatcanreactthefastestposestheimmediatethreat.
(cid:132)
The enemy that can cause the most damage or prevent the airborne force from
(cid:132)
accomplishingitsmissionposesthemostsignificantthreat.
(cid:122) Enemy reserves and paramilitary organizations (gendarmeries, police, border guards, and
militia)andtheirabilitytomobilizeandreact.
(cid:122) Enemy capability to conduct guerrilla, partisan, or sabotage activities and the enemy’s
relationshiptothelocalpopulation.
TERRAINANDWEATHER
4-16. The staff must consider these components;observationand fields offire, avenuesofapproach, key
terrain,obstacles,andcoverandconcealment(OAKOC)andthenactonthefollowingfactors:
(cid:122) The availabilityof dropzonesandlandingzones.Divisionorcorps staff provides alandingarea
study to subordinate elements before the preparation of the airborne assault and follow-on
landing plan. However, the availability and selection of drop zones should not influence the
selectionofassaultobjectives,theairheadline,orunitboundaries.
(cid:122) Obstacleswithin theairhead line andouttothe maximum effectiverange ofdirect- and indirect-
fire weapons, with emphasis on those that can be prepared or reinforced with minimal engineer
effort.
(cid:122) Enemyavenuesofapproach,since theenemytriestoreachand destroytheairborneforce before
itcanassemble andreorganize.Thisconsiderationweighs heavilyindeterminingthe locationof
assaultobjectives.
(cid:122) Keyterrainthatcandeterminehowtheairborneforcecanbestdefendtheareain-depth.
(cid:122) Friendly and enemy observation and fields of fire (particularlyfor indirect fires and anti-armor
weapons).
(cid:122) Coverandconcealmentformovementandconsolidation.
(cid:122) Thestaffmustconsidertheeffectsofclimateandweatheron(cid:650)
Flightformations.
(cid:132)
Trafficability.
(cid:132)
Visibility.
(cid:132)
Closeairsupport.
(cid:132)
Logistics.
(cid:132)
Personnelandequipment.
(cid:132)
Mannedandunmannedaerialplatforms.
(cid:132)
TROOPSANDSUPPORTAVAILABLE
4-17. Commanders consider all forces available to accomplish the mission. These include all assigned,
attached,andsupportingforces.
(cid:122) U.S. ground forces. Commanders evaluate the plans, missions, capabilities, and limitations of
U.S.groundforces.Theyconsiderwhetherartillerycansupporttheairborneforcesandwhether
theforcesperform a linkuporpassageoflines. |
3-99 | 65 | Ground Tactical Plan
(cid:122) United States Air Force (USAF). Close air support often can compensate for the lack of armor
andheavyartillery.Theairbornecommandermustconsiderthe AirForce’sabilitytosupportthe
forceandmustbringknowledgeableairliftandtacticalairplannerstogetherearly.
(cid:122) United StatesNavy(USN). Theairborne commanderexamines theavailabilityand feasibilityof
navalgunfire supportandnavalor U.S.MarineCorps(USMC)air support.Earlyarrangements
forliaisonandcoordinationmustbemadetosupporttheoperation.
TIMEAVAILABLE
4-18. Timeis criticalinall operations.Thereare severaltimeconsiderationsthatare unique to an airborne
operation. Significanttime maybe required to mass the lift force. The time between the initial assault and
the deployment of the follow-on echelon must be considered. The amount of time before linkup or
withdrawaldrivessustainmentplanning.
CIVILCONSIDERATIONS
4-19. Understanding the operational environment requires understanding the civil aspects of the joint
operational area. Social and economic variables often receive close analysis as part of civil considerations
at brigade and higher levels. Depending on mission, the ABNTFC considers national and regional
characteristicssuchas—
(cid:122) Religionandcustoms.
(cid:122) Politicsandtribalaffiliations.
(cid:122) Supportorlackofitforcentralandlocalgovernmentsoroccupyingpowers.
(cid:122) Loyaltytopoliticalormilitaryleaders.
(cid:122) Availablelabor.
(cid:122) SupportorlackofitforU.S.forces.
4-20. Civilconsiderations isthe influence of manmadeinfrastructure,civilianinstitutions, andactivitiesof
the civilian leaders, populations, and organizations within an area of operations on the conduct of military
operations(ADRP 5-0). The abilityto analyze civilconsiderations to determine their impactonoperations
at brigade and below enhances several aspects of the airborne operation to include insertion into the
objective area, seizure of assault objectives and establishment of the airhead, and follow-on operations.
Civilconsiderationscomprisesixcharacteristics,expressedinthe memory(cid:68)(cid:76)(cid:71)(cid:3)(cid:36)(cid:54)(cid:38)(cid:50)(cid:51)(cid:40)(cid:650)areas,structures,
capabilities,organizations,people,andevents.(RefertoATP2-01.3formoreinformation.)
ASSAULT OBJECTIVE AND AIRHEAD LINE
4-21. Based on his analysis of METT-TC, the commander selects specific assault objectives. (See
figure 4-1, page 4-6.) Although the airhead line is developed and the assault objectives determined
concurrently,theassaultobjectivesdictatethesizeandshapeoftheairhead. |
3-99 | 66 | Chapter 4
Figure 4-1. Assault objectives
4-22. This selection does not necessarily include those objectives that the force must seize to secure the
airhead line. An appropriate assault objective is one, which the force must control early in the assault to
accomplish the mission, or it must control to enhance the security of the airborne unit during the
establishmentoftheairhead.
4-23. Objectives should allow for the accomplishment of mission-essential tasks while meeting the
commander’s intent. They can include key terrain within the airhead or terrain required for linkup. For
example, the commander has directed the airborne force to secure a bridge for later use by linkup forces.
The force must secure this bridge before the enemy can destroy or damage it; therefore, the commander
designatesthebridgeasanassaultobjective.
4-24. The airborne unit is vulnerable from the time of the airborne assault until follow-on forces can be
delivered to the airhead. A mobile enemy unit attacking the airhead during these early moments can
completely disrupt the operation. Therefore, the commander selects assault objectives terrain that
dominatesplaceswherehigh-speedenemyavenuesofapproachentertheairhead.
4-25. Enemypositions that boththreaten the mission and are located within the airhead canbe selected as
assaultobjectives.However,commanderswouldnotclassifymobileforcesasassaultobjectives.
4-26. Assault objectives must be seized immediately to establish the airhead and to provide security for
follow-onforcescomingintotheairhead.
4-27. Other considerations influence the development and final selection of assault objectives.
Subordinatecommandersdecidethesize,type,ordispositionoftheforcetogain/maintaincontrol.
(cid:122) Divisionselectsbrigadeassaultobjectives.
(cid:122) Brigadeselectsbattalionassaultobjectives.
(cid:122) Battalionselectscompanyassaultobjectives.
Senior commanders choose as few assault objectives as possible since subordinate
(cid:132)
commanders must select additional objectives to establish a cohesive defense of their
assignedareasoftheairhead.
Assault objectives are ranked in order. A unit SOP may predesignate a numbering system
(cid:132)
forsubordinateobjectives.Forexample,all firstbrigadeobjectivesbeginwith a “Q,” orfor
OPSEC purposes, they maybe randomly numbered or lettered. Priorities are chosen based
onthe mostlikelythreatorontheneedsofthefriendlyforce. |
3-99 | 67 | Ground Tactical Plan
Assaultobjectives aresecuredbeforethedefenseissetupintheairheadline.The airheadis
(cid:132)
then cleared of organized enemy resistance and forces are positioned to secure the airhead
line.
4-28. When commanders select assault objectives, they should consider the extent of the airhead. The
airhead includes the entire area under control of the airborne force. It acts as a base for further operations
and as a respite that allows the airborne force to build combat power. Once the force secures the airhead,
theymustclearenemyforceswithinit;then,theymustdefendit.
4-29. The airheadlineisalinedenotingthelimitsofthe objective areaforanairborneassault(JP 3-18).It
delineates the specific area to be seized and designates the airhead. Several principle factors determine the
location,extent,andformoftheairheadorairheadline,theyareasfollows:
(cid:122) The actual trace of the airhead line reflects the control of key or critical terrain essential to the
mission.(Seefigure4-2.)
Figure 4-2. Airhead line
(cid:122) Theairhead line anchors onobstacles,andtheairheaditselftakesadvantage ofnaturaland man-
madeobstacles.
(cid:122) The airheadcontains enough dropzonesandlanding zonestoensureinteriorratherthan exterior
linesofcommunicationandtopermitmassratherthanpiecemealassault.
(cid:122) The airhead must allow enough space for dispersion to reduce vulnerability to chemical,
biological,radiological,nuclearweapons.
(cid:122) The airhead mustbe large enoughto provide fordefense indepth, yet small enough for the unit
to defend.Although this islargelyMETT-TCdependent,abattalioncandefendan airhead three
to five kilometers in diameter. An IBCT can occupy an airhead five to eight kilometers in
diameter.
SECURITYANDRECONNAISSANCE
4-30. Security in all directions is an overriding consideration early in the airborne operation, since an
airheadorlodgmentisessentiallyaperimeterdefense. Anotheroverridingconsideration,theairborneunit’s
method of arriving into the objective area requires the conduct of an immediate and thorough
reconnaissance and the rapid transmission of this information to higher headquarters. Security operations
andreconnaissancemissionswithinthesecurityareaenabletheseefforts. |
3-99 | 68 | Chapter 4
4-31. Security operations are those operations undertaken by a commander to provide early and accurate
warning of enemy operations, to provide the force being protected with time and maneuver space within
which to react to the enemy, and to develop the situation to allow the commander to effectively use the
protected force (ADRP 3-90). Reconnaissance is a mission undertaken to obtain, byvisual observation or
other detection methods, information about the activities and resources of an enemy or adversary, or to
secure data concerning the meteorological, hydrographic, or geographic characteristics of a particular
area(JP 2-0).
4-32. After the force makes the initial assault landing and accomplishes its first missions, the commander
organizes theairheadlineasthedefenseperimeter.The terrainand situation dictates howunitsoccupyand
organizetheairheadline.Forcesassignedreconnaissanceandsecuritytasks,usuallyincludereinforcingthe
security area. The mission, enemy capabilities, and defensive characteristics of the terrain determine the
degree to whichtheairheadlineisactuallyoccupiedand security areaforcesare organizedfortheairhead.
Task organization of security and reconnaissance forces is METT-TC-dependent and may include scouts,
Infantry, cavalry, antitank weapons, engineers, Army aviation, electronic warfare, and follow-on Stryker
andArmoredforces.
SecurityForces
4-33. Security forces land early in the assault echelon. In the early stages of an airborne operation, the
security force acts as a screening force. In later stages (when assault missions have been accomplished,
when the airhead is relatively secure, and when more forces are available), it acts as a guard force. The
security area is established four to six kilometers from the airhead line to afford security to the airborne
force during its landing and reorganization. Security forces come under BCT control except during short
missions such as raids, when they come under battalion or squadron control. The mission of the security
forceisto—
(cid:122) Givetheairheadearlywarning.
(cid:122) Developinformationcollection,toincludethelocation,direction,andspeedofanenemyattack.
(cid:122) Denytheenemyobservationofandabilitytodirectindirectfireontheairhead.
(cid:122) Deceivetheenemyastotheactuallocationoftheairhead.
(cid:122) Delayanddisrupttheenemy.
4-34. The need for and positioning of additional security forces is determined by the next subordinate
commander.Whenpossible, mobile forces are selected to facilitaterapid initial movementto positionsand
to facilitate withdrawal and adjustment. An aggressive reconnaissance and surveillance effort at lower
echelons augments the security force. The following considerations apply to the selection of positions for
thesecurityforce:
(cid:122) Locate them within radio communications and fire support range. However, this range can be
extended, if necessary, with retransmission stations, split section indirect-fire operations, and
attachmentofvehicles,mortars,orotherassetstothesecurityforce.
(cid:122) Locate them as roadblocks, obstacles, ambushes, patrols, or sensors (depending on the enemy)
on dominant terrain. This allows long-range observation and fields of fire out to the maximum
rangeofsupportingfires.
(cid:122) Locatethemtoobserve,control,anddominateenemyhigh-speedavenuesofapproach.
(cid:122) Locatethemtodenyenemylong-rangeobservationandobserved indirectfireintotheairhead.
(cid:122) Locatethemfarenoughouttoprovideearlywarning.
(cid:122) Locate themto provide routesof withdrawalto the airhead. Observationposts generallyrelyon
theirabilitytohideastheir mainprotection;they canallowthe enemytopasstheir positionand
notwithdraw.
ReconnaissanceForces
4-35. Designated forces under control of the ABNAFC perform reconnaissance missions within the
security area; emphasis is placed on likely enemy avenues of approach. The mission of these forces is to
gain and maintain contact withenemy units reactingto the airborne assault. This force is mobile and not |
3-99 | 69 | Ground Tactical Plan
used to defend a particular part ofthe airhead. It maybe supported withfire from USAF assets, naval gun
fire,orArmymissilesystems.Thefollowingconsiderationsgoverntheemploymentofthisforce:
(cid:122) Theseforces orientonenemyhigh-speed avenues ofapproachtodevelop intelligence toinclude
thelocation,direction,andspeedoftheenemy’sadvance.
(cid:122) Commanders of these forces consider known enemy locations, the number of high-speed
approaches,andcommunications-relayabilitieswhileorientingonenemyunits.
(cid:122) Usuallyemployed beyond the airhead at a distance based on the tactical situation, commanders
canextendtheirrangeifcommunicationspermit.
(cid:122) Aviation assets can extend to 50 kilometers or more, although the commander must consider
loiter time so the forcescan provide continuouscoverage. (Forward armingand refueling points
[FARPs]canincreasethisdistance.)
(cid:122) Long-range surveillance teams may perform surveillance of enemy garrisons and major routes
intotheairhead.
(cid:122) Reconnaissanceforcesmustbemobileandtask-organizedforthemission.
BOUNDARIES
4-36. Commanders visualize the employment of subordinate units to organize them for combat
commensurate with the missions. Commanders use boundaries to assign areas of responsibility to major
subordinate combat elements, which then clear the area of enemy forces. (See figure 4-3, page 4-10.) In
selecting and designating assault boundaries for airborne operations, several points are considered as
follows:
(cid:122) Each unit should be able to clear its assigned area; therefore, commanders must consider
boundaries concurrently with task organization. To assign boundaries, commanders subdivide
the area into areas with equal tasks (not necessarily into equal areas). This requires a careful
analysisoftheenemy,thetaskstobeaccomplished,andtheterrainwithintheobjectivearea.
(cid:122) Commanders should avoid splitting (between two units) the responsibilityfor the defense of an
avenueofapproachorkeyterrain.
(cid:122) Commandersshould ensure there isadequate maneuver space inthe area, to include keyterrain
featuresthatcontrolit.
(cid:122) Commanders should avoid designating boundaries in such a way that a major terrain obstacle
dividesaunitarea;thispresentsproblemsformaneuveringforces.
(cid:122) The boundaries should provide adequate roomto permit the commander to maneuver forces on
bothsidesoftheirassaultobjectives.
(cid:122) Commanders mustchoose boundaries that are recognizable bothonthe map and onthe ground.
Roadsshould notbeusedasaboundarybecausetheyrepresentahigh-speedavenue ofapproach
and need to be covered with a clear understanding of responsibility. Instead, commanders can
userivers,streams,railroadtracks,theedgeofatown,woods,theedgeofaswamp,andsoon.
(cid:122) An ABNIBCT area ofoperationshould include at leastone drop zone and one landing zone to
allow for follow-on forcesto landduring the assault. Thisfacilitatesresupplyand evacuationof
enemyprisoners of war and casualties. Having a drop zone and landingzone allows for ease of
sustainmentoperations. Regardlessof boundaries, units should drop on the drop zone closest to
theirassaultobjective.
(cid:122) Commandersshould establish boundaries that serve during the airborne assault and duringlater
operations.Theseshouldbereadilyrecognizableduringlimitedvisibility.
(cid:122) Commanders should choose boundaries that do not require a unit to defend in more than one
direction at once. They should not expect a unit to secure objectives within the airhead at the
sametimetheyestablishitsdefense.
(cid:122) Boundaries should extend beyond the trace of the security force as far as needed to coordinate
fires.Thisallowssubordinateunitstooperateforwardoftheairheadwithminimalcoordination.
(cid:122) Commandersshould plancoordinatingpointsat the intersectionof the airhead line and security
forcegroundtraceboundaries. |
3-99 | 70 | Chapter 4
Figure 4-3. Boundaries
METHODOFATTACK
4-37. Therearethreebasicmethodsofattackinganobjective.Theyare:
(cid:122) Jumping or landing on top of the objective. This method works best for attacking a small
objective that is specially fortified against ground attack. However, an airborne landing into an
areastronglydefendedagainstairattackrequiressurprisetosucceed.
(cid:122) Jumping or landing near the objective. This method works best for the capture of a lightly
defended objective that must be seized intactsuchas a bridge. Ifthe enemy has strongdefenses
againstairattack,onlysurprisecanenabletheunittoachievesuccesswithfewcasualties.
(cid:122) Jumping or landing at a distance from the objective. This method is the least often used of the
methods available. Airborne forces use this method for large complex objectives that must be
seized bydeliberate attack. The drop zone is selected to emphasize securityand preservationof
theforce.Theplanisbasedon METT-TCconsiderationsandshouldsurprisetheenemy.
METHODOFLANDING
4-38. Therearetwobasiclandingmethods. Theyareasfollows:
(cid:122) Multiple drop zones. The use of multiple drop zones creates a number of small airheads in the
objective area. This method supports the principle of mass by placing the maximum number of
paratroopersinthe objective area inthe minimumamountoftime. Additionally,the commander
cancapitalizeontheprincipleofsurprise becausethemaineffortis noteasilydeterminedbythe
enemy.Thismethodnormallyisusedbydivision-sizeelementsandlarger.
(cid:122) Single drop zone. IBCT and smaller-size airborne forces often establish an airhead by
conducting the airborne assault onto a single drop zone. This method allows the assaulting unit
toassemblequicklyandmasscombatpoweragainsttheenemy. |
3-99 | 71 | Ground Tactical Plan
TIME-SPACEFACTORS
4-39. Commanders schedule the delivery sequence and the time between serials to provide the least time
and distance separation between each aircraft and serial. The airborne force assembles maximum combat
poweronthedropzoneasquicklyaspossible,usingeitherofthefollowingoptions:
(cid:122) Landall elements inthesame area. Aircraftapproachthedropzonein adeep,narrowformation
andallSoldiersjumpintoasmallarea.
(cid:122) Land all elements at the same time. Aircraft in a wide formation approach various drop zones
situatedclosetoeachotherandallSoldiersjumpatthesametimeorasneartoitaspossible.
LANDINGPRIORITIES
4-40. Airborne units are cross loaded to land close to their assault objectives and are organized to try to
maintaintacticalunity.
(cid:122) Battalionsor battalion task forcesland intact ona single drop zone. AnIBCT landsin mutually
supportingdrop zones.Two or morebattalionsland successivelyonthesame drop zone oreach
canlandonaseparatedropzonewithinageneralIBCTdropzonearea.
(cid:122) Theairborne force sendsas manyassaultunitpersonneland equipmentaspossible into the area
inparachuteserials.Commandersmustconsider themobilityofequipmentafterthe landing.For
example,thecarriersorprime moversthataredeliverablebyparachute, butdifficultto moveor
carry on the ground; can accompany the weapons in the assault element. Paratroopers
accompanytheirunits’principalitemsofequipment.
FIRESUPPORTPLAN
4-41. The following fire support planning and coordination actions are the responsibility of the
IBCT/battalion/squadronduringgroundmovement:
(cid:122) Support the scheme of maneuver. The goal is to place the maximum amount of indirect
firepoweronthegroundasquicklyaspossible.
(cid:122) Control indirect-fire systems. Initially, control is decentralized; a forward observer calls for fire
directlytoafiresupportasset.
(cid:122) Plan fires to block enemy avenues of approach. (Consider family of scatterable mines
[FASCAM]deliveredbyair.)
(cid:122) Planfirestoeliminateenemyresistance(groupsandseriesintheobjectivearea).
(cid:122) Planfirestodefend keyterrainneededtolinkup withfriendlyforces.
(cid:122) Planfirestosupportsecurityorreconnaissanceforcesintheobjectivearea.
(cid:122) Planfiresontopof,totheflanks,andbeyondassaultobjectives.
(cid:122) Plancloseairsupport.
(cid:122) Planfinalprotectivefires.
(cid:122) Recommendpriorityoffires.
(cid:122) Select initial field artillery and mortar positions that can be occupied quickly from drop zones
andlandingzones.
(cid:122) Select subsequent field artillery and mortar positions to provide combat outposts and security
forces.
(cid:122) Coordinatelandingplan.Planningand coordination of firesupportduring the air movementand
pre-assault fires are the joint task force’s responsibility; he plans SEAD fires along the flight
route and in the objective area. Once on the ground, friendlypositions are marked. The assault
force must ensure that pre-assault air strikes are planned against other enemy positions in the
objectivearea.
(cid:122) Pre-assaultfiresareplannedasfollows:
Onandaroundthelandingzoneordropzone(alternateandfalse).
(cid:132)
Onenemyairdefenseartillery.
(cid:132)
Onenemycommand,control,andcommunication.
(cid:132) |
3-99 | 72 | Chapter 4
Onenemyindirect-firesystems.
(cid:132)
Sequenceandlocationofdeliveryforfieldartilleryandmortars.
(cid:132)
SECTION III – AIR-GROUND OPERATIONS
4-42. Air action by fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft against hostile targets that are in close proximity to
friendlyforcesrequiredetailedintegrationofeachairmissionwiththefireand movementofgroundforces.
Thissectiondiscusses fundamentalconsiderations for effective air-ground operations, close combatattack,
and close air support. Itaddresses unmanned aircraftsystem operationsto provide surveillance capabilities
and to enhance the ABNAFC’s situational awareness as he plans, coordinates, and executes the airborne
assault.
FUNDAMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS
4-43. To ensureeffective air-ground operations, airborne assault commandersand staffs must consider the
integration of air and ground maneuver forces. The following fundamentals provide a framework for
enhancingtheeffectivenessofbothairandgroundmaneuver:
(cid:122) Understandingcapabilitiesandlimitationsofeachforce.
(cid:122) Usingstandardoperatingprocedures.
(cid:122) Forminghabitualrelationships.
(cid:122) Usingregulartrainingevents.
(cid:122) Rehearsals.
(cid:122) Maximizingandconcentratingeffectsofavailableassets.
(cid:122) Synchronization.
4-44. Integration involves merging the air and ground fights into one to applyproper aviation capabilities
accordingto the supported ABNAFC’s intent. Integrationideallybeginsearlyin the planningprocess with
the involvement of the air defense airspace management/brigade aviation element (ADAM/BAE). The
ADAM/BAE advises the ABNAFC on aviation capabilities and the best way to use aviation to support
missionobjectives.Ensuringthe AVNLNOorBAE passesalongthetaskandpurposefor aviationsupport
and continually provides updates as needed is of equal importance. Simply stated, ensuring the aviation
brigade and subordinate unit staffs fully understand the ABNAF scheme of maneuver and commander’s
intentiscriticaltosuccessfulair-groundoperations.
CLOSE COMBAT ATTACK
4-45. A close combat attack is a coordinated attack by Army attack reconnaissance aircraft (manned and
unmanned) against enemy forces that are in close proximity to friendly forces. The close combat attack is
not synonymous with close air support flown by joint aircraft. Terminal control from ground units or
controllers is not due to the capabilities of the aircraft and the enhanced situational understanding of the
aircrew(FM 3-04.126). In most instances, the attack aviation already mayoccupy holding areas, battle or
support by fire positions or are in overwatch of the ground unit as it begins its assault. The ABNAF
employsclose combatattack procedurestoensurethat theseaviationfires destroythe enemywithminimal
risktofriendlyforces.
4-46. After executing the airborne assault, employing attack reconnaissance aviation with ground
maneuver forces requires coordinated force-oriented control measures and the close combat attack (CCA)
5-Lineattack briefallowingaviationforces to supportground maneuver withdirectfireswhile minimizing
fratricide risks. The aviation liaison officer should identify early in the planning process the minimum
ABNAF graphics required for operations (boundaries, phase lines, attack by fire positions, objectives, and
so on). Brigade aviation elements and liaison officer personnel should ensure that supported units are
familiarwithclosecombatattackrequestproceduresandmarkingmethods
CLOSECOMBATATTACKREQUEST
4-47. A close combat attack iscoordinated and directed by a team, platoon, or company level ground unit
using the standardized Format 22. CCA 5-Line attack brief. (Refer to chapter 10, section III of this |
3-99 | 73 | Ground Tactical Plan
publication for more information.) The most important factor of successful close combat attack is positive
and directcommunication betweenaviationand ground forces. Asstated earlier, close combat attack does
not requirea joint terminalattackcontroller (JTAC)unlike closeair supportmissions.However, utilizing a
jointfiresobservercanminimizethe riskoffratricide and expeditetheclearance offiresprocedures. (Refer
toFM3-04.126andATP3-09.32formoreinformation.)
4-48. Any element in contact uses the CCA 5-Line attack brief to initiate the close combat attack. The
CCA 5-Line attack brief allows the ground maneuver forces to communicate and reconfirmto the aircraft
the exact location of friendly and enemy forces. The ground commander owning the terrain clears fires
during the close combat attack by giving aircrews the situational awareness of the location of friendly
elements.The ground commander deconflictsthe airspace betweenindirectfires, close air support, and the
closecombatattackaircraft.
4-49. Afterreceivingtherequestfor closecombatattack,theaircrewinforms the groundunitleaderof the
battle position, attack or, support by fire position (or series of positions) the team is occupying, and the
location from which the attack aircraft engages the enemy with direct fire. The size of this position varies
depending on the number of aircraft using the position, the size of the engagement area, and the type of
terrain. The position must be close enough to the requesting unit to facilitate efficient target handover.
Aircraft leaders normally offset the position from the flank of the friendly ground position. This helps to
ensure that rotor wash, ammunition-casing expenditure, and the general signature of the aircraft do not
interfere withoperations on the ground. The offset position allows the aircraft to engage the enemy on his
flanksratherthanitsfront.Itreducestheriskoffratricidealongthehelicoptergun-targetline.
TARGETHANDOVER
4-50. The rapid and accurate marking of a target is essential to a positive target handover. Aircraft
conductingclosecombatattacksdevelop anattackplanthat isMETT-TC dependentand meetsthe ground
commander’s task and purpose. The aircrewgenerally has an extremelylimited amount of time to acquire
boththe friendly and enemylocations. Itisessentialthatthe ground unit hasthe marking readyand turned
on when requested bythe aircrew. Attack reconnaissance aircrews use both thermal sight and night vision
goggles (NVGs) to fly with and acquire targets. After initially engaging the target, the aircrew generally
approaches from a different angle for survivability reasons if another attack is required. The observer
makes adjustments using the eight cardinal directions and distance (meters) in relation to the last round’s
impact and the actual target. At the conclusion of the close combat attack, the aircrew provides its best
estimateofbattledamageassessmenttotheunitincontact.
BATTLEDAMAGEASSESSMENTANDREATTACK
4-51. After the attack aircraft complete the requested close combat attack mission, the aircrewprovides a
battledamageassessment tothe groundcommander.Basedonhisintent, theground maneuvercommander
determinesif another attackis required toachieve hisdesired end state.The close combat attackoperation
can continue until the aircraft have expended all available munitions or fuel. However, if the air mission
commander receives a request for another attack, he must carefully evaluate his ability to extend the
operation.If notable,hecalls forrelief onstation byanotherattack teamifavailable.It isunlikely thatthe
originalteamhasenoughtimetorefuel,rearm,andreturntostation.
CLEARANCEOFFIRES
4-52. During an airborne assault with numerous aircraft in the vicinity of the drop zone, it is critical to
deconflict airspace between aircraft and established indirect fires once air-land or follow-on forces arrive,
toincludethefollowing:
(cid:122) Ensure aircrews have the current and planned indirect fire positions (to include mortars)
supportingthegroundtacticalplan.
(cid:122) Plan for informal airspace coordination areas and check firing procedures and communications
to ensure artillery and mortars firing from within the drop zone do not endanger subsequent
serialslandingordeparting,closecombatattack,orcloseairsupport. |
3-99 | 74 | Chapter 4
(cid:122) Ensurethatatleastone aviationteammembers monitorsthe fire supportnetwork for situational
awareness.
(cid:122) Advisetheaviationelementifthelocationofindirectfireunitschangesfromthatplanned.
(cid:122) Ensure all participating units are briefed daily on current airspace control order or air tasking
orderchangesandupdatesthatmayaffectairmissionplanningandexecution.
(cid:122) Ensureallunitsupdatefiringunitlocations,firingpoint origins, andfinalprotective firelinesas
theychangeforinclusionincurrentairspacecontrolorder.
4-53. The ABNAFC or ground commander can establish an airspace coordination area. For example, he
can designate that all indirect fires be south of and all aviation stay north of a specified gridline for a
specific period. Thisis one method for deconflicting airspace while allowingboth indirect firesand attack
aviation to attack the same target. The ground commander then can deactivate the informal airspace
coordinationareawhenthesituationpermits.
CLOSE AIR SUPPORT
4-54. Close air support is air action by fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft against hostile targets that are in
close proximityto friendlyforcesand thatrequire detailed integrationofeachair mission withthe fire and
movement of those forces (JP 3-0). Like close combat attack, close air support can be conducted at any
place and time friendly forces are in close proximity to enemy forces based on availability. All leaders in
the ABNAF should understand how to employ close air support to destroy, disrupt, suppress, fix, harass,
neutralize,ordelayenemyforces.(RefertoJP 3-09.3formoreinformation.)
4-55. Only joint terminal attack controllers (JTACs) or forward air controllers (airborne) (FAC[A]s)
personnel have the authorizationto perform terminal control of close air support aircraftduringoperations
(combat and peacetime) within proximity of their supported ground combat units. Nomination of close air
support targets is the responsibility of the commander, air liaison officer, and S-3 at each level. The
ABNAF may receive close air support from USAF, USN, USMC, or multinational units. (Refer to
ATP 3-09.32formoreinformation.)
CAPABILITIESANDEMPLOYMENT
4-56. Before and during an airborne assault, USAF aircraft are available to provide close air support.
Requests for these aircraft are processed through the tactical air control party (TACP) colocated with the
IBCT main command post. The TACP is organized as an air execution cell capable of requesting and
executingType 2 or 3 terminalattackcontrolof closeairsupportmissions.The staffingofthecelldepends
on the situation but at a minimum, includes an air liaison officer and a JTAC. (Refer to ATP 3-09.32 for
more information.) To use close air support aircraft, the leader on the ground should be familiar with the
characteristicsoftheaircraftpredominantlyusedinthecloseairsupportrole.
BRIEFINGFORMAT
4-57. Twotypesofcloseairsupportrequestsareasfollows:
(cid:122) Preplannedrequeststhat maybefilled with eitherscheduledoron-callair missions.Those close
air support requirements foreseen early enough to be included in the first air tasking order
distributionaresubmittedas preplannedair supportrequestsfor closeairsupport.Onlythoseair
supportrequestssubmittedinsufficienttimetobeincludedinthejointairtaskingcycleplanning
phasesandsupportedontheairtaskingorderareconsideredpreplannedrequests.
(cid:122) Immediate requests that are mostly filled by diverting preplanned missions or with on-call
missions. Immediate requests arise from situations that develop outside the air tasking order
planningcycle.
4-58. The air liaison officer and JTAC personnel in the TACP are the primary means for requesting and
controlling close air support. However, reconnaissance units conducting shaping operations, such as
reconnaissance and surveillance missions that have joint fires observer certified personnel, may observe
andrequestcloseairsupportthroughtheJTAC.(RefertoATP 3-09.32formoreinformation.) |
3-99 | 75 | Ground Tactical Plan
UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM
4-59. Beforetheairborneassault,theABNTFCmayrelyonunmannedaircraftsystem(UAS)operationsto
provide surveillance capabilities and to enhance the ABNAFC’s situational awareness as he plans,
coordinates,andexecutesthe airborneassault. UASemploymentpriortotheassaultisweightedagainstthe
element of surprise. Once the airborne assault is executed, the commander can employ UAS from his
organic elements or he can request to have direct access to real-time feeds from additional UAS support
from his higher headquarters. UAS employment is particularly effective when employed together with
groundandattackreconnaissanceelementsasateamduringshapingoperationsinwhichthecommanderis
trying to create the conditions for successful airborne assault execution. (Refer to FM 3-04.155 for
moreinformation.)
CAPABILITIES
4-60. UASbringnumerous capabilitiesto the ABNAF.Employment ofthesesystemsbefore executingthe
airborne assault and employment with ground and attack reconnaissance units provides reconnaissance,
surveillance, and target acquisition capabilities. UAS also can support military deception by flying in an
area to make the enemy think it is a friendly objective. The RQ-7B Shadow can participate in attack
operationsbyeitheremployingindirectfiresandbylaserdesignationoftargetsforjointaircraftandremote
engagementsbyarmed manned and unmanned aircraft. The MQ-1C GrayEagle can do the same and may
bearmed withHellfiremissilestoengageautonomouslyorfireitsmissilesforaremotedesignator.
ReconnaissanceOperations
4-61. When UAS complement the ground reconnaissance units during reconnaissance operations, they
operateforwardoftheelement(METT-TCdependent).Theycanconductdetailedsurveillanceofareasthat
are particularlydangerousto groundreconnaissance units, suchasdrop zones, landingzonesand objective
areas.Theycanbeemployedeffectivelyinsupportofoperationsinurbanterrain.
4-62. Theycan support route reconnaissance forward ofreconnaissance and securityunits or be employed
in conjunction with reconnaissance and security units when it is necessary to reconnoiter multiple routes
simultaneously.ThereconnaissanceunitleadercanemployUASto supportanareaorzonereconnaissance
mission. Upon contact, UAS provide early warning for the element and then maintain contact until the
elementconductsareconnaissancehandoverfromtheUAStoanotherelement.
SecurityOperations
4-63. Insecurityoperations, UAScomplementreconnaissance unitsbyassistinginidentificationofenemy
reconnaissance and main body elements and by providing early warning forward of reconnaissance units.
Besides acquiring enemyforces, UAS canplayacritical roleinproviding securitythroughthe depthofthe
screen byobserving dead space between ground observation posts. Theycan support reconnaissance units
duringareasecuritymissionsbyscreeningorconductingreconnaissance.
Reconnaissance/TargetHandover
4-64. When a UAS makes contact, particularly during reconnaissance operations, the operator hands over
theUAScontacttoground orattackreconnaissance unitsasquicklyaspossible.Rapidhandoverallowsthe
UAS to avoid enemy air defense weapons and helps maintain the tempo of the operation. During the
handover, the UAS assists in providing direction to the ground or attack reconnaissance unit charged with
establishing contact with or engaging the enemy. It maintains contact with the enemy until the units are in
positionandhaveestablishedsensororvisualcontact.
4-65. The firstactioninthe handover process isa report (suchas, spot report or situationreport) fromthe
UAS operator to the ground or attack reconnaissance unit. Next, the UAS reconnoiters the area for secure
positions for the unit (such as hide, overwatch, observation posts or battle positions) and likely mounted
and dismounted routes into the area. The ground or attack reconnaissance unit moves to initial hide
positionsalongthe route selected bythe leader based on UAS-collected information.The ground or attack
reconnaissance unit then moves to establishsensor or visual contact withthe enemy. Once this contact is |
3-99 | 76 | Chapter 4
established, the ground or attack reconnaissance unit sends a report to the UAS operator. When the UAS
operatorconfirmsthatthe ground orattackunit canobserve enemyelementsand has a clear pictureofthe
situation, handoveriscomplete.The UASthen canbededicatedtoanother mission or,inthecaseoftarget
handovertoattackreconnaissanceunits,maybeusedforbattledamageassessmentsandreattackifnecessary.
SECTION IV – EXECUTION
4-66. The initialairborne assault emphasizes the coordinated actionofsmall units to seize initial battalion
objectives before the surprise advantage has worn off. As assault objectives are seized, the airborne force
directsitseffortstowardconsolidatingtheairhead.
CONDUCT OF THE AIRBORNE ASSAULT
4-67. Tactical surprise and detailed planning should enable units to seize their assault objectives and to
establishthe airheadbefore the enemyhastime to reactinforce. Missionsofunitschange whennecessary
by the enemy defense of initial objectives. The enemy can be expected to launch quick uncoordinated
attacks along major avenues of approach using local forces. The degree of coordination and strength of
these attacks increase progressively, therefore, the airborne force must develop correspondingly greater
strengthinitsdefensivepositions.Preparingearlydefenseagainstarmoredattackis a majorconsideration.
4-68. Units assigned to perform reconnaissance and security missions should be cross loaded in the load
plansothat duringtheairborne assault, theyare to be someofthefirstelementsontheground tomoveand
establish roadblocks, locate enemy forces; disrupt enemy communication facilities; and provide the
commander with early warning, security, and information. Since ground reconnaissance by unit
commandersisseldom possible before the airborne operation, it must beginimmediately after units hitthe
ground, and assemble. The information flow must be continuous. Information requirements do not vary
fromthoseemployedbyothergroundunits.However,theunit’s methodofarrivalinthearea ofoperations
makes immediate and thorough reconnaissance and transmission of information to higher headquarters
necessary.
4-69. Iftheinitialobjectivesareheavilydefended,thebulkoftheforceisassignedthetaskofseizingthese
objectives. When initial objectives are lightly defended, the bulk of the force can be employed in clearing
assigned areas and preparing defensive positions in depth. Extensive patrolling is initiated early between
adjacentdefensive positions withinthe airhead line, and betweenthe airhead and the limits of the security
area. Army aircraft are well-suited for support of this patrolling effort. Contact with friendly guerrilla
forces, long-range surveillance teams and special operations forces in the area is established as soon as
possible.
4-70. Brief personnel on unit plans, adjacent and higher units’ plans, and alternate plans. This helps units
or personnel landing in unplanned areas to direct their efforts to accomplishing the mission. Misdelivered
unitsorpersonnelestablishcontactwiththeirrespectiveheadquartersassoonaspractical.
4-71. Sufficientcommunicationpersonnelandequipmentmustbemovedintotheairheadinadvanceofthe
commandposttheyaretoserve toensure the timelyinstallationofvitalcommunication. (Refer to FM 6-02
for more information.) As soon as communication and the tactical situation permit, commanders regain
centralized mission command. Therefore, immediate establishment of the following is necessary for
effectivemissioncommand:
(cid:122) Commandandfirecontrolchannelswithintheairborneforces.
(cid:122) Communicationwithsupportingairandnavalforces.
(cid:122) Communicationwithairliftforcesconcernedwithbuildup,airsupply,andairevacuation.
(cid:122) Communicationwithbasesinfriendlyterritory.
(cid:122) Communicationbetween widelyseparatedairborneorgroundforces,suchaslinkup forces,with
a commonorcoordinatedmission.
4-72. Thecommanderinfluencestheactionby—
(cid:122) Shiftingorallocatingfiresupportmeans.
(cid:122) Movingforces. |
3-99 | 77 | Ground Tactical Plan
(cid:122) Modifyingmissions.
(cid:122) Changingobjectivesandboundaries.
(cid:122) Employingreserves.
(cid:122) Moving to a place from which he can best exercise personal influence, especially during the
initialassault.
4-73. Wheninitialobjectiveshavebeensecured,subordinateunitsseizeadditionalobjectivesthatfacilitate
the establishment of a coordinated IBCT defense or the conduct of future operations. Defensive positions
areorganized,communicationsaresupplemented,andreservesarereconstituted.Theseandother measures
are taken to preparetheforcetorepelenemycounterattacks,tominimizetheeffects ofattackbychemical,
biological,radiological,andnuclearmeans,ortoresumetheoffensive.
4-74. Reservesprepareandoccupyblockingpositions,pendingcommitment.Typicalmissionsforreserves
committed during the initial assault include taking over the missions of misdelivered units, dealing with
unexpectedoppositioninseizingassaultobjectives,andsecuringtheinitialairhead.
DEVELOPMENT OF THE AIRHEAD
4-75. Aftertheairborneforcesmaketheinitialassaultlandingsandaccomplishtheinitialgroundmissions,
commandersmustorganizetheairheadline.Considerationsinclude:
(cid:122) Size. The airhead line extends far enough beyond the landing area to ensure uninterrupted
landings of personnel, equipment, and supplies. It secures the requisite terrain features and
maneuverspaceforsuchfutureoffensiveordefensivetasksascalledforinthemission.
(cid:122) Occupationand organization.Unitsoccupyandorganize the airheadlinetotheextentdemanded
by the situation. Commanders adjust the disposition of units and installations to fit the terrain
and the situation. Units take reconnaissance and security measures; this usually includes the
reinforcement ofthe securityarea.Thedegreeto which the airheadlineisactuallyoccupiedand
organized for defense is largely determined by the mission, enemy capabilities, and the
defensivecharacteristicsoftheterrain.
(cid:122) Buildup. This proceeds concurrently with seizing and organizing the airhead line and, if
required, repairing or constructing an airfield to receive follow-on airland echelons. As more
combatpersonnel arriveandcommanders organize thembyunit,positionsare reinforced onand
within the airhead line, reserves are constituted, and preparations are made for such offensive
tasksasthemissionrequires.
BUILDUP OF COMBAT POWER
4-76. The buildup of combat power is the introduction of the follow-on echelon into the airhead. This
increaseoffriendlycombatpower yieldsacorrespondingabilitytoconduct adefenseoftheairheadandto
conducta short-termsustainmentofthose forces. The intentofthe buildup isto provide asecure operating
and logistic base for forces working to move the airhead away from the original point of attack. Usually,
thisdistanceisequaltothe enemy’sdirectfire capabilitytoharassanddestroyincomingaircraftorlanding
craft(5to10kilometers).
4-77. Composing the follow-onechelondepends on METT-TC. All though notinclusive, itcanconsist of
Armored, Stryker, Infantry, field artillery, air defense artillery, and combat engineers as well as other
significant supporting elements (military information support operations, civil affairs, military police, and
chemical,biological,radiological,andnuclear)andsustainmentassets.
4-78. Thetimeinvolvedinthedefensevaries.Itdependsonthemissionassigned,thecompositionandsize
ofthe force,theenemyreaction,andthetypeofoperationcontemplated. Awell-prepared defenseinshort-
duration missions in isolated objective areas may not be required. Security can be accomplished by
completelyoralmostcompletelydestroyingordispersingtheenemyforcesintheimmediateobjectivearea
during the assault; then, airlifting the striking force before the execution of a coordinated enemy
counterattack.
4-79. Defense of an airhead. The airborne force usually defends an airhead bysecuring keyterrain within
the airhead and dominating likely avenues of approach. Units deny the enemy the areas between the |
3-99 | 78 | Chapter 4
occupied positions with a combination of patrols, fires, and natural and man-made obstacles. Units
aggressively reconnoiter between positions within the airhead and forward of the airhead line in the
security. They increase emphasis on reconnaissance forward of the airhead line during limited visibility.
The airhead configuration allows the commander to shift forces, reserves, and supporting fires quickly to
reinforceother areasofthe airhead. Regardlessof the formofdefense chosen, the force preparespositions
indepthwithinitscapabilities.
4-80. Defenseduringwithdrawal.Should withdrawalfromtheinitialpositionsberequired,thefinalareato
which the airborne force withdraws must contain adequate space for maneuver, for protecting critical
installations,andforplannedairlandingorairevacuationoperations.
4-81. Defense against armor. During the initial phases of an airborne operation, one of the main defenses
against enemy armor is air support. Aircraft attack enemy armor targets as they appear, as far as possible
fromtheobjectivearea,andcontinuetoattackandobservethemaslongastheythreatentheairborneforce.
Strong points defending the airhead use existing obstacles such as ditches, thick foliage, and structures,
plus reinforcing obstacles such as mine fields, tank traps, demolitions, and man-made obstacles. Units
emplace AT weapons in depth along avenues of approach favorable for armor. They cover all dangerous
avenues of approach with planned fires. Javelins, AT-4s and light anti-armor weapons of the rifle
companies, the tube launched, optically tracked, wire guided weapons of the battalion weapons company,
and the antitank weapons of division and corps aviation units give the airborne force a substantial amount
of antitank firepower. Some of the antitank weapons, organic to battalions that are in holding areas not
underarmoredattack,canbemovedtoreinforcethreatenedareas.
4-82. Defense against airborne assault: All personnel must recognize that the enemy can conduct airborne
assault operations and must defend against these attacks. Helicopters afford the enemy one of its best
meansofrapidlymovingsignificantoperatingforcestotheairheadarea.
4-83. Friendly forces must counterattack an enemy airhead immediately with available forces and fires to
disrupt the enemy’s plan and force build up, and continue until the enemy airborne assault has been
neutralized.
4-84. Defense against guerrilla action and infiltration: The defense must include plans for countering
enemy guerrilla attacks or infiltrated forces attacking the airhead area. The basic defense against these
attacksisanextensive patrol and warningsystem, anall-round defense, and designated reserve unitsready
to move quickly to destroy the enemy force. Units must be especially alert during limited visibility to
preventtheenemyfrominfiltrating.Iftheenemycanbuildupforcesintheairhead interior, itcaninfluence
operations.Unitsmustlocateanddestroytheenemythathasinfiltratedtheairhead.
SECTION V – FOLLOW-ON OPERATIONS
4-85. An airborne assault is as rapid in its execution as it is time-consuming in its preparation.
Commanders must develop contingency plans for possible follow-on operations. These plans should be
modifiedbased on the most current intelligence. Advanced planning can allow more rapid decisionmaking
andtimelycommitmentofforces.
4-86. The employment of ABNAF on the ground is similar to that of other Infantry ground forces. The
entire range of these operations include movement to contact, attack, area defense, or retrograde.
Additional operations may include raids, linkup, relief in place, passage of lines, withdrawal (either
overlandor byair),exfiltration, andnoncombatant evacuation. (RefertoFM 3-21.20,FM 3-21.10, andFM
3-21.8formoreinformation.)
SECTION VI – SUPPORTING OPERATIONS
4-87. Airborne forces can deploy from a continental United States base directly to the objective area. A
more common method would be for the airborne unit to firstdeployto a remote marshalling base or to an
intermediate staging base (ISB) before establishing a lodgment in the area of operation. In certain
circumstances,theobjectivecanbebeyondtherangeofaircraftoperatingfrom a remotemarshallingbase |
3-99 | 79 | Ground Tactical Plan
or ISB in friendly territory. Therefore, a forward operating base in hostile territory can be seized to
facilitateorprojectfurtheroperations.
REMOTE MARSHALLING
4-88. The remote marshallingbase isa secure base to whichthe entire airborne force (to include organic
andattachedsupportelements)deploysandcontinuesmissionplanning.(Seefigure4-4.)
Figure 4-4. Base options
(cid:122) Location. The remote marshalling base is within the geographical area encompassed by the
command authority of the theater or joint task force commander. This ensures that the
sustainment elements providing support to the airborne unit are operating within their normal
area. It prevents or lessens out-of-area support requirements for sustainment elements. The
remotemarshalling base shouldbeinanarea similarinterrainand climate tothe objectivearea.
Timespentattheremotemarshallingbaseletstheunitbeginacclimatization.
(cid:122) Planning and coordination. The remote marshalling base provides a secure location for the unit
toconductdetailedplanningandcoordinationwiththecontrollingheadquartersstaff.
(cid:122) Preparation. In the remote marshalling base, the commander conducts rehearsals, refines and
modifies plans, determines priority intelligence requirements, and coordinates with the proper
intelligencesourcetoreceivethatinformation.
(cid:122) Additions to the unit. In the remote marshalling base, individual specialists who augment the
force are integrated into the unit if they have not already joined. Specially trained supporting
units (such as aviation and communication elements) join the force at the remote marshalling
base.
(cid:122) Functionsofaremotemarshallingbase.Theremotemarshallingbasemustprovide—
Accesstothecontrollingheadquartersstaff.
(cid:132)
Physicalsecurityofbilleting,planning,maintenance,andcommunicationareas.
(cid:132) |
3-99 | 80 | Chapter 4
Mess,billeting,latrine,andshowerfacilitiesfortheforceanditssupportingelements.
(cid:132)
Accessto a C-17or C-130capableairfield,possiblywithall-weatheroperations.
(cid:132)
Accesstosecurecommunicationandprocessedintelligence.
(cid:132)
Accesstorehearsalareaswheresitescanbebuiltandlive-firerehearsalscanbeconducted.
(cid:132)
Access to the unit locations of major supporting elements such as naval landing craft or
(cid:132)
Armyaviationunits.
Anexternalsecurityforceandanactivecounterintelligenceagency.
(cid:132)
Vehicletransportforpersonnellift,equipmenttransfer,andadministrativeuse.
(cid:132)
Accesstomaintenancesupportfacilities.
(cid:132)
ArmyHealthSystemsupportfacilitiestoaugmenttheairbornemedicalpersonnel.
(cid:132)
Coveredareasforpackingparachutesandriggingairdroploads.
(cid:132)
INTERMEDIATE STAGING BASE
4-89. When the assaulting force must move a considerable distance from its sustaining base, the
commander should consider establishing one or more intermediate staging bases. Before establishing an
intermediate stagingbase, the commander must weighthe benefitsofestablishingthe base againstthe cost
in terms of combat power or effort diverted from the support mission to secure the intermediate staging
base,andthepotentialofincreasedvulnerabilitytoenemyairandmissileattack.
4-90. Forward operating bases extend and maintain the operational reach by providing secure locations
from which to conduct and sustain operations. They not only enable extending operations in time and
space; they contribute to the overall endurance of the force. Forward operating bases allow forward
deployedforcestoreduceoperationalrisk,maintainmomentum,andavoidculmination. Generally,theyare
located adjacent to a distributionhub. Thisfacilitates movement into and outof the operational area while
providing a securelocationthroughwhichtodistributepersonnel,equipment,andsupplies. |
3-99 | 81 | Chapter 5
Landing Plan
The landing plan supports the ground tactical plan. It provides a sequence for the
arrival of forces into the area of operation, ensuring that all forces arrive at
designated locations and times prepared to execute the ground tactical plan. The
commander finalizes the landing plan after completing the ground tactical plan. The
landing plan phases forces into the objective area at the correct time and place to
execute the ground tactical plan. Executing the landing plan is vital to the swift
massingofcombatpower,protectingtheforce,andsubsequentmissionaccomplishment.
SECTION I – DELIVERY CONSIDERATIONS
5-1. Thelanding plan isthe ABNAFC’splan thatlinksthe air movementplan tothe groundtacticalplan.
Itispublished atABN IBCTlevelandbelow.BeforetheABNAFCcanprepareanoveralllandingplan,he
must know where his subordinate commanders intend to land their assault forces. The landing plan is
generatedupthechainofcommandas a collaborativeeffort.
ORGANIZATION
5-2. Airborne forces organize landing plans to maintain tactical integrity. Battalions or battalion task
forces normally land intact on a single drop zone. Two or more battalions land successively on the same
drop zone or each can land on a separate drop zone within a general ABN IBCT area of operation. The
ABNIBCTlandsinmutuallysupportingdropzones.
5-3. The ABNAF sends as many assault force personnel and equipment as possible into the area in
airborne assault serials. The ABNAFC must consider the mobility of equipment after the landing. For
example, the carriers or prime movers that are deliverable by parachute, but difficult to manhandle on the
ground, can accompany the weapons in the assault force. Assault forces accompany their units’ principal
itemsofequipment.
REQUIREMENTS
5-4. To develop the landing plan, commanders at each level need to know their commander’s priorities,
theairliftplan,the landingareastudy,theparent andsubordinateunittaskorganizationandgroundtactical
plans,and subordinate unitlandingplans. Duringthe backbrief ofthe ground tacticalplan, the commander
establishes airlift and delivery priorities and airlift plan. He provides as much of this information as
possibletosubordinateunitsattheendofthegroundtacticalplanbackbrief.
5-5. As withthe ground tacticalplan, eachechelon(fire teamthroughbrigade) mustconductconfirmation
briefs and backbriefs to their landing plans. The landing plan remains tentative until leaders complete
backbriefsandcoordinatechanges.Theleaderstakethefollowingactions:
(cid:122) Landing plan. In the case of the landing plan, backbriefs ensure coordination of who is using
whatdropzone,andor landingzoneandwhen,thepreferredorientationofdropzones,and who
is landing in which areas and when. The landing plans follow the commander’s priorities, the
airliftplan,andgroundtacticalplan.
(cid:122) Assembly plan. One of the most critical parts of the landing plan is the assembly plan. Each
leader must brief his Soldiers, require a backbrief, rebrief his Soldiers, and require another
backbrief. Each Soldier should know exactly what to do, how to do it, and when to do it to
assemblequickly.Assemblyplansofoneunitdonotinterferewiththeassemblyplansofotherunits. |
3-99 | 82 | Chapter 5
(cid:122) Aircraft requirements. The backbriefof thelandingplanidentifies aircraftrequirementsforeach
subordinate unit. If there are not enough aircraft available to lift the entire assault force at one
time, commanders must decide the units that should be lifted first, and then allocate aircraft
accordingly. In making this decision, he analyzes the priorities dictated by the mission and the
highercommander.
PRIORITIES
5-6. Commander must set the priorities for each assault objective to determine the delivery sequence for
units that are to secure these objectives. This does not necessarily match the sequence in which the units
secureobjectives.Thecommandermustknow—
(cid:122) Priorities for deliveries on each drop zone (personnel drop, container delivery system, and
heavydrops).
(cid:122) Thedropzonesequence.
(cid:122) Prioritiesfordeliveringtheremainderoftheforces.
(cid:122) Methodofdeliveryforeachunitanditsequipment.
(cid:122) Thelocationoftheheavyequipmentpointofimpact,andthe personnelpointofimpact.
(cid:122) Abortcriteria(Go/No-Go)andbumpplan.
5-7. Airlift plan. The USAF airlift planners responsible for the airlift plan develops the plan, in
coordination with ABNTF planners, to best support the ground tactical plan. This plan includes aircraft
formations and the sequence of personnel drops, and heavy drops. ABNTF planners choose the sequence
and the time intervals between serials, which are groups of like aircraft (C-130s, C-17s) with the same
deliverymethod(personneldrops,heavydrops,)goingtothesamedropzone.
5-8. Landing area study. Division or corps staff, working with U.S. Army topographic engineers and the
USAF,developsthelandingareastudyand provides ittosubordinate units.Thisstudyenablessubordinate
unitstoselectthelocation,size,andorientationofdropzonestobestsupporttheirschemeofmaneuver.
5-9. Subordinate unit landing plans. Subordinate commanders should develop landing plans to support
their own respective schemes of maneuver. Subordinate units then backbrief their landing plans so that
higher headquarters can finalize their plans. Units must know the initial locations of sustainment assets.
Thisinformationshouldbecomeavailableassubordinateunitsbackbrieftheirgroundtacticalplan.
SECTION II – DELIVERY ELEMENTS
5-10. A designated lodgment area in a hostile or potentiallyhostile territory, when seized and held, makes
the continuous landing of troops and materiel possible and provides maneuver space for the transition to
follow-on operations. The five elements of the landing plan include: sequence of delivery, method of
delivery,placeofdelivery, timeofdelivery,andassemblyplan.Assemblyandreorganizationarediscussed
inSectionIVofthischapter.
SEQUENCE OF DELIVERY
5-11. The ABNAFC’s priorities within the ground tactical plan determine the sequence of delivery, with
the initialassaultdesigned tosurpriseand concentrate overwhelmingcombatpower againstthe enemyand
to protect the assault force. Neither aircraft allocations nor the availability of aircraft should influence
thesedecisions.Hedeterminesfinalaircraftallocationsafterthelandingplanconfirmationbrief.
5-12. Advance serials mayprecede the mainairliftcolumn to drop USAFcombatcontrol teamsand Army
long-range surveillance teams. The combat control team places and operates navigation aids on the drop
zones and landingzones;the long-range surveillance teams provide surveillance on named areasofinterest
and reports to the ground force commander. Insertion location of advance serials whether within the
objective area or some distance away from the objective area are always METT-TC dependent, as the
commanderstrivestoachievesurpriseregardingexactobjectives withintheairborneoperations. |
3-99 | 83 | Landing Plan
METHOD OF DELIVERY
5-13. Thispartofthe landingplanaddresseshowthe force withits needed supplies andequipmentarrives
intheobjectivearea.Theassault echeloncomes inbyparachute.The ABNAFCcanuse a numberofother
meanstointroduceadditionalpersonnel,equipment,andsuppliesintotheobjectivearea.
PERSONNELAIRDROP
5-14. The airborne force delivers assault personnel by parachute drop. This method allows quick, nearly
simultaneous delivery of the force. Planners choose terrain with minimal obstacles that allows the assault
force to land on or close to objectives. In some cases and with special equipment, it can deliver personnel
into rough terrain. Specialteams can use high-altitude high-opening(HAHO) or high-altitude low-opening
(HALO) parachute techniques. These methods allow for early delivery without compromising the
objective’slocation.
EQUIPMENT/SUPPLYAIRDROP
5-15. Airborne forces canairdrop supplies and equipment directlyto ground forces behind enemy linesor
inotherunreachableareas.However,thereareadvantagesanddisadvantages.
(cid:122) Advantagesareasfollows:
Prerigging and storing emergency items for contingencies considerably reduces shipping
(cid:132)
andhandlingtimeandincreasesresponsiveness.
Since the delivery aircraft does not land, there is no need for forward airfields, landing
(cid:132)
zonesormaterialhandlingequipmentforoffloading.
Thisreducesflighttimeandexposuretohostilefireandincreasesaircraft survivabilityand
(cid:132)
availability.
Groundforcescandispersemoresincetheyarenottiedtoanairfieldorstrip.
(cid:132)
(cid:122) Disadvantagesareasfollows:
Airdropsrequirespeciallytrainedriggerpersonnelandappropriate aircraft.
(cid:132)
Badweatherorhighwindscandelaytheairdroporscatterthedroppedcargo.
(cid:132)
Ground fire threatens vulnerable aircraft making their final approach, especially if
(cid:132)
mountainsorhighhillscanalizetheaircraft.
Since the aircraft do not land, no opportunity for ground refueling exists. Planned aerial
(cid:132)
refueling canextend aircraft range and should be considered on long flight legs to increase
objectivearealoitertimeandmissionflexibility.
Bulkyairdroprigsforequipmentpreventtheaircraftfromcarryingas muchcargoaswhen
(cid:132)
configuredforairland.
Thepossibilityoflossordamagetoequipmentduringtheairdropalwaysexists.
(cid:132)
Groundforcesmustsecurethedropzonetopreventitemsfromfallingintoenemyhands.
(cid:132)
Recoveryofairdroppedequipmentisslowandmanpowerintensive.
(cid:132)
TypesofDelivery
5-16. All means of delivery are exploited to maximize combat power in the lodgment. Free drop, high-
velocityairdrop,low-velocityairdrop,andjointprecisionairdrop,aredifferenttypesofairdropdelivery.
FreeDrop
5-17. Less than 600 feet above ground level (AGL), free drop requires no parachute or retarding device.
The airdrop crewcan use energy-dissipating materiel around the load to lessen the shock when it hits the
ground at a rate of 130 to 150 feet a second. Fortification or barrier material, clothing in bales, and other
suchitemscanbefreedropped. |
3-99 | 84 | Chapter 5
High-VelocityAirdrop
5-18. Parachutes, which have enough drag to hold the load upright during the descent at 70 to 90 feet a
second, stabilize loads for high-velocity airdrops. Army parachute riggers place airdrop cargo on energy-
dissipating material and rig it in an airdrop container. This method works well for subsistence, packaged
petroleum, oils, and lubricants (POL) products, ammunition,andother such items. The ground commander
may use the standard high-velocity delivery system, which is the container delivery system, to deliver
accompanyingand follow-onsupplies;theycanbedeliveredwithinanarea400by100meters. A container
deliverysystemisthe mostfavored meansofresupply; it is the mostaccurateofall airdrop methods.Each
palletholdsup to 2200 pounds. A C-130J holdsup to 16 ofthesecontainers, and a C-17 holdsup to 40 of
these containers. Planners should calculate the computed air release point (CARP) near assembly areas or
resupply points. The air liaison officer or Army drop zone support team controls receipt of container
deliverysystems.
Low-VelocityAirdrop
5-19. 700 ftAGLto 1300 ft AGL. Low-velocityairdrop requirescargo parachutes. Crews rig items onan
airdrop platformor inanairdrop container.Theyput energy-dissipating material beneaththe load to lessen
the shock when it hits the ground. Cargo parachutes attached to the load reduce the rate of descent to no
morethan28feet a second.Fragilemateriel,vehicles,andartillerycanbelow-velocityairdropped.
(cid:122) Heavy drop. Airborne forces use this method most often to deliver vehicles, bulk cargo, and
equipment. Airdrop aircraft deliver heavy-drop equipment just ahead of the main body or, if
following personnel drops, at least 30 minutes after the last paratrooper exits. For night drops,
theheavy-dropprecedespersonneldrops.
(cid:122) Doorbundles. Requiresthe use ofeither the A7Acargo slingor the A21 cargo bag. Withthese,
aircraft personnel can drop unit loads of up to 500 pounds just before the first Soldier’s exit.
Airdrop standard operatingprocedures dictate the number and type ofdoor bundlesthatspecific
aircraftcandrop.
JointPrecisionAirdrop
5-20. The Joint Precision Airdrop System (JPADS) is a high altitude-capable guided precision airdrop
systemthatprovidesincreasedcontrolreleasefromtheaircraft,andreduceson-groundloaddispersionwith
GPS-supported accuracy. Two current increments of JPADS support precision deliveryof cargo pallets up
to2200poundsandupto10,000pounds.
Airland
5-21. Airborne forces can accomplish certain phases of airborne operations, or even the entire operation,
by using airland to deliver personnel and equipment to the objective area. The advantages and
disadvantagesareasfollows:
(cid:122) Advantages.Insomecases,airlandingratherthanair-droppingpersonnelandequipmentmaybe
advantageousbecauseairlanding—
Providesthemosteconomicalmeansofairlift.
(cid:132)
Delivers Army aviation elements, engineering equipment, artillery pieces, and other
(cid:132)
mission-essentialitemsinoneoperation.
Provides a readilyavailablemeansofcasualtyevacuation.
(cid:132)
Allowsforcestomoreeasilymaintaintacticalintegrityandtodeployrapidlyafter landing.
(cid:132)
Allowstheuseofforceswithlittlespecialtrainingandequipment.
(cid:132)
Doesnotrequireextensivepreparationandriggingofequipment.
(cid:132)
Offers a relatively reliable means of personnel and equipment delivery regardless of
(cid:132)
weather.
Precludes equipment damage and personnel injuries forces may experience in parachute
(cid:132)
operations.
(cid:122) Disadvantages.Inothercases,airlandingisnotadvantageousbecauseit—
Cannotbeusedforforcedentry.
(cid:132) |
3-99 | 85 | Landing Plan
Requiresmoderatelylevel,unobstructedlandingzoneswithadequatesoiltrafficability.
(cid:132)
Requires more time for delivery of a given size force than airdrop, especially for small,
(cid:132)
restrictedlandingzones.
Generallyrequiresimprovementor newconstructionof airland facilities, whichaddsto the
(cid:132)
engineerworkload.
Requires some form of airlift control element support at offloading airfields. Mission
(cid:132)
intervals depend on airlift control element size, offloaded equipment availability, and
airfieldsupportcapability.
AirlandOrganizationforMovement
5-22. The tactical integrity of participating forces is a major consideration in an airland operation. Small
forces that are expected to engage in combat on landing, airland organizationally intact with weapons,
ammunition, and personnel in the same aircraft. Airland planning stresses placing forces as close as
possible to objectives,consistent with theavailabilityoflandingzonesandtheoperational capabilityofthe
aircraftemployed.Becauseofaircraftvulnerabilityontheground,forcesunloadasquicklyaspossible.
5-23. The airborne commander determines the composition of each aircraft load and the sequence of
delivery. The mission, the tactical situation, and the assault force’s task organization influence this
decision.
5-24. Forces should use facilities, such as roadsand open areas, to reduce the time and effortrequired for
new construction. They should consider layouts that facilitate future expansion and provide maximum
deploymentandflexibility. As thesizeandefficiency ofanair facilityimprove,its value totheenemyasa
targetincreases.Toreducethisvulnerability,thefacilitiesshouldbedispersedandsimple.
PLACE OF DELIVERY
5-25. Selecting dropzonesandlanding zonesisa jointresponsibility.Theairliftcommanderisresponsible
fortheprecisedeliveryofpersonnelandcargotothe dropzone orlandingzoneand selectingapproachesto
the drop zone. Both joint and component commanders must base their decisions on knowledge of their
respectiveproblemsand onthe needsofthe overalloperation.The nature and location oflandingareasare
importantconsiderations whenpreparingthe scheme of maneuver. Thegeneralareainwhichtheyaretobe
established is governed bythe mission. At higher echelons, commanderscan assign landing areasinbroad
general terms. In subordinate units, leaders mustdescribe their locations more specifically. Drop zonesare
selectedafteradetailedanalysis. Iftheenemysituation permits, thecommandershould chooseadropzone
directlyontop ofassaultobjectives. Commanders shouldconsider thefollowingfactorswhenmakingtheir
selections:
(cid:122) Ease of identification. The drop zone should be easy to spot from the air. Airlift pilots and
navigators prefer to rely on visual recognition of terrain features to deliver personnel and
equipmentinanaccuratemanner.
(cid:122) Straight-lineapproach.Toensureanaccurateairdrop,theaircraft makesastraight-lineapproach
toeachdrop zoneforatleast10miles, oraboutfourminutesatdrop airspeed,before thestart of
thedrop.
(cid:122) Outofrange. The commander should choose a drop zone thatallowsthe forcesto avoid enemy
air defenses and strong ground defenses and puts them outside the range of enemy suppressive
fires. To get to the drop zone, aircraft should not have to fly over or near enemy antiaircraft
installations, whichcandetect aircraft atdrop altitudes. Theyshould flyover hostile territoryor
positionsfortheleastpossibletime.
5-26. Suitable weather and terrain. The commander must consider the weather and terrain due to
conditionsthatmayaffectthe usabilityofadropzone.
(cid:122) Weather. Commanders should consider seasonal weather conditions when selecting drop zones.
Adverse weather effects can be devastating. Ground fog, mist, haze, smoke, and low-hanging
cloud conditions can interfere with the aircrew’s observation of drop zone visual signals and
markings. However, theydo offer excellentcover forblind or area drop zones. Excessive winds
hamperoperations. |
3-99 | 86 | Chapter 5
(cid:122) Terrain. Flat or rollingterrain isdesirable;it should be relatively free, but notnecessarilyclear,
of obstacles. Obstacles on a drop zone do not prevent paratroopers from landing but increase
jumpcasualties.Sites in mountainousorhilly countrywithlargevalleysorlevelplateaus canbe
used forsecurityreasons.Smallvalleysorpocketscompletelysurroundedbyhillsaredifficultto
locateand shouldbeused onlyinrarecases.Commanders mustavoid man-made obstaclesmore
than150feet(46meters)above thelevelofthe dropzone withinaradius ofthreenauticalmiles.
High ground or hills need not be considered a hazard unless the hills pose an escape problem
that is beyond the aircraft’s capability. High ground or hills more than 1000 feet (305 meters)
above the surface of the site should not be closer than three nautical miles to the drop zone for
night operations. The perimeter of the drop zone should have one or more open approach areas
freeofobstaclesthatwouldpreventtheaircrew’ssightingofthe dropzonemarkings.
Coverandconcealment. Coverandconcealment near the dropzones or landingzonesare a
(cid:132)
distinctadvantagewhentheairborneforcesassembleandwhenairlandforcesland.
Road network. Having a drop zone near a good road networkexpedites moving personnel,
(cid:132)
supplies, and equipment from that zone. If the landing area contains terrain that is to be
developed into an air landing facility, a road network is of particular value not only for
moving items from the facility but also for evacuating personnel and equipment as well.
However, a road network offers the enemy a high-speed avenue of approach and must be
defended.
Keyterrain. The drop zone site selected should aid in the success of the mission by taking
(cid:132)
advantage of dominating terrain, covered routes of approach to the objective, and terrain
favorablefordefenseagainstarmoredattack.
5-27. Minimum construction for drop zones or landing zones. Because of limited engineer support in the
airborne force, selected landing zones should have a minimum requirement for construction and
maintenance. Unless more engineer support is requested and received, construction and maintenance
restraintscanlimitthenumberofareasthatcanbeusedordeveloped.
5-28. Mutual support. Commanders should select mutually supporting drop zones or landing zones that
provideinitialpositionsfavorabletotheattack.
5-29. Configuration. The division or brigade commander gives guidance on drop size in operations plans
oroperationsorders.Theneachunitcommanderdeterminestheexactshape,size,andcapacityrequired.
(cid:122) Shape. The most desirable shapes for drop zones are rectangles or circles; these permit a wider
choice of aircraft approach directions. However, they require precise navigation and timing to
avoidcollisionsordropinterference.
(cid:122) Size. The drop zone should be large enough to accommodate the airborne force employed; one
dropzonethatallowstheaircraft todrop its entireloadinonepassisdesirable.Repeatedpasses
are dangerous because the initial pass can alert enemy antiaircraft and other emplacements,
waitingforsubsequentdrops.
There are certain situations, however, when multiple passes are used. This occurs mainly
(cid:132)
whenthere isno significant air defense threat and orbits are made over areas where enemy
antiaircraft systems are not positioned. This applies especially to the seizure of islands
where small drop zones are the rule. If there are enough aircraft available to deliver the
force with fewer personnel oneach aircraft, there is no realproblem. However, ifthere are
onlyenoughaircrafttodeliver the assaultecheloninone lift witheachaircraftcarryingthe
maximum number of personnel, then the aircraft has to make multiple passes over the
dropzone.
A large drop zone can permit several points of impact to be designated and used. It is
(cid:132)
desirabletosaturate theobjectiveareaintheshortestpossibletimebutthereis areasonable
limitto the amountofpersonnel and heavyequipment drop thatcanbe stacked on a single
drop zone. Therefore, it can be desirable to use multiple points of impact on a single drop
zoneprovidedthedropzoneislargeenoughtopermitthis.
(cid:122) Capacity. The drop zone capacityis based on the expected number of forces to be dropped and
theirdispersionpattern. |
3-99 | 87 | Landing Plan
5-30. Orientation. Thoughtful orientation allows the quickest possible delivery of the airborne force into
theobjectivearea.
(cid:122) Ideal drop zones offset and parallel each serial. (See figure 5-1.) This allows aircraft to share a
flightrouteuntil theyapproachthe objectivearea;thentheycansplitataninitial pointorrelease
pointforsimultaneousdeliveryonseveraldropzones.
(cid:122) Another method is parallel on-line. (See figure 5-2, page 5-8.) This employs making two drops
ontwo drop zonesinline , whicheliminatesachange offlightdirectionbetween thetwo drops.
Thedropzones mustbe farenoughaparttopermitthe navigatorsto compute thelocationof the
secondreleasepoint.
(cid:122) Paratroopers are more likely to overshoot the drop zone than to undershoot it. The primary
objective for selectingthe trailing edge drop zone for the primaryassault is for personnel inthe
frontoftheaircrafttoexitlast.
(cid:122) Ifafighteraircraftescortorrendezvousisrequiredforthe drop,theymust remainadvised ofthe
droppattern, thedirectionofallturns to be flownaroundthedropzone, and theareasto lookfor
possible enemy activity. Drop zones that require intersecting air traffic patterns should be
avoided, wheneverpossible. Theydelaysimultaneous deliveryofthe force becauseofthe safety
requirements to stagger delivery times and clear the air by at least a 5- or 10-minute formation
separation time. They require that joint suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD) is
accomplished for multiple routes instead of one. This may result in piecemeal delivery and an
unnecessarilycomplicatedplan,violatingtheprinciplesofmassandsimplicity.
Figure 5-1. Offset and parallel drop zones |
3-99 | 88 | Chapter 5
Figure 5-2. Parallel on-line drop zones
5-31. Alternate drop zones or landing zones. Commanders must select alternate drop zones or landing
zonestocompensateforchangesthatmayoccur.
5-32. Number of drop zones or landing zones. The number of drop zones to be used by the assault
parachuteechelon ofanABNIBCTdependsonthenumber,size, andrelativepositionofsuitablesites;the
ABN IBCT plan of maneuver; and the expected enemy situation. The maneuver battalions of an ABN
IBCT can land successivelyon the same drop zone, on separate battalion drop zones, oron adjacent areas
within a single large ABN IBCT drop zone. Advantages and disadvantages of each drop zone is address
below:
(cid:122) Single BCT drop zone. The use of a single ABN IBCT drop zone on which battalions land
successivelyhasthefollowingadvantages:
Itpermitsgreaterflexibilityintheplanofmaneuverandthe planofsupportingfires.
(cid:132)
Itfacilitatescoordinatingandcontrollingassaultbattalions.
(cid:132)
Itappliestheprincipleofmass.
(cid:132)
Itmakeslogisticalsupporteasier.
(cid:132)
Itdecreasestheareaofvulnerability.
(cid:132)
(cid:122) Theuseof a singledropzonehasthefollowingdisadvantages:
Itslowsthebuildupofcombatpower.
(cid:132)
Itcauseslaterairliftsortiestobevulnerabletoenemyairbecauseofthelossofsurprise.
(cid:132)
Itallowstheenemytoemphasizehisefforts.
(cid:132)
(cid:122) Separate battalion drop zones. The use of separate battalion drop zones has the following
advantages:
ItincreasesreadinessforactionbydeployingtheABNIBCTasitlands.
(cid:132)
Itreducesconfusiononthedropzonesduringthelandingandreorganizing.
(cid:132)
Ittendstodeceivetheenemyastotheintentionandstrengthofthelandingforce.
(cid:132)
Itmakescaptureofthe ABNIBCTobjectiveeasierwhenthereisstrongoppositiononone
(cid:132)
dropzone.
Itincreasesthefreedomofmaneuveroftheassaultbattalions.
(cid:132)
(cid:122) Theuseofseparatebattaliondropzoneshasthefollowingdisadvantages:
Itmakesmissioncommandmoredifficult.
(cid:132) |
3-99 | 89 | Landing Plan
Itreducesflexibilitybecause forcesaredispersed.
(cid:132)
(cid:122) Adjacent dropareas. Landingbattalionsonadjacent areas withina single large ABNIBCT drop
zone has, although to a lesser degree, the same advantages and disadvantages of dropping on
separatedropzones.
TIME OF DELIVERY
5-33. No set rule can be prescribed for the timing of an airborne operation. It varies with each situation;
however, the airborne force tries to conduct airborne assaults during limited visibility to protect the force
and to surprise the enemy. The commander sets the specific time of delivery. However, for the landing
plan,timesarestated interms ofP-hour.P-houristhe specific houronD-day at which a parachuteassault
commences with the exit of the first Soldier from an aircraft over a designated drop zone. P-hour may or
maynotcoincidewithH-hour(FM6-0).Thefollowingconsiderationsaffectthetimingoftheoperation.
SUPPORTOFTHEDECISIVEOPERATION
5-34. Theairborneassaultcanbea shapingoperation.Ifso,thetimeof commitmentoftheairborneforces
in relation to the decisive operation is directed by orders from higher headquarters. It is determined in
advance according to the mission, the situation, and the terrain. For example, the airborne force can be
committed in advance of the decisive operation to give the airborne assault an increased element of
surprise. It can be committed during the decisive operation to neutralize specific areas or to block the
movementofenemyreserves.Itcanbecommittedafterthe decisiveoperationtoassistabreakthroughorto
blockanenemywithdrawal.
VISIBILITY
5-35. Thedecisionasto whetherthe airborneforceis committed bynightordaydependsontheestimated
degreeofairsuperiority,theneedfor security fromenemyground observation,therelativeadvantage tobe
gainedbysurprise,andtheexperienceofbothairliftandairbornepersonnel.
5-36. As an advantage, night airborne operations greatly increase the chance of surprise and survivability,
and reduce the chance of attack by enemy aircraft during the air movement. They reduce vulnerability to
antiaircraft fire, conceal preparations for takeoff from the enemy, and reduce the effectiveness of the
defender’s fires. Daylight operations provide better visibility from the air and ground, more accurate
delivery,quickerassembly,andmoreeffectivefriendlyfiresthannightoperations.
5-37. As a disadvantage, night airborne operations in zero visibility require well-trained Soldiers and
aircrewstolocatethe dropzoneandassemblerapidly. Theyprovidemore airand landnavigationproblems
and offer slower rates of assemblythan day operations. Night operations reduce the effectiveness of close
air support. Day operations increase vulnerability to enemy air defense, ground fires, and air attack, and
theyresultinlossofsurprise.
INTERVALS
5-38. The time interval between delivery of the assault echelon (P-hour) and the follow-on echelon
dependsontheavailabilityof aircraft,the capacityofdepartureairfields, the numberofaircraft sorties that
can be flown on the initial airborne assault, the availability of drop zones or landing zones within the
objective area, and the enemy situation. For example; if there are unlimited aircraft, ample departure
airfields, numerous drop zones or landing zones within the objective area, and little or no enemy air
defense, the commander could deliver the follow-on echelon immediately after the assault echelon. Thus,
the time interval could be so brief that it would be hard to determine which was the last aircraft of the
assault echelonand whichwasthefirst aircraftofthefollow-onechelon.Regardlessofthe timingselected,
avoidsettingapattern.
SECTION III – PREPARATION AND SUPPORTING FIRES
5-39. An ABNAF’s organic fire support is typically limited to its mortars when initially conducting the
airborneassaultphaseofanentryoperation.TheABNAFCmust planfor theuseoffiresupportexternalto |
3-99 | 90 | Chapter 5
the ABNAF until organic fieldartilleryassetsare delivered byheavy-drop or withtheairland phase of the
operation.Onceparatroopersde-rigandpreparetheirgunsystemsfromtheheavy-droporairlandandplace
intoactionthosesystems,the ABNAFCthen canusetheirsupportingfires.Aspart ofthe landingplan and
following the ground tactical plan, the ABNAFC and staff must plan and integrate a fire support plan as
partoftheoperation.
FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING
5-40. Firesupportplanning for anairborneoperationisinitiatedonreceiptofthemission. Concurrentwith
the development oftheconceptoftheoperation, the commanderplans forfire supportso thatitis provided
throughouttheoperation.
PLANNING, COORDINATION,ANDEXECUTION
5-41. Fire support teams, elements, and cells advise the commander on fire support capabilities and joint
firesupportcommand andcontrol,effectiveuseoffiresassets,and assistintheplanning,coordination,and
execution of fires. Fire support planning, coordination, and execution for airborne operations are more
complexthangroundoperationsnotinvolvingverticalenvelopmentduetothefollowingfactors.
5-42. Theassaultelementsoftheairborneforcearequicklyplacedindirectcontactwiththeenemydeepin
hostile territory. Initial operations are decentralized and communications can be limited or nonexistent.
During the initial airborne assault and periodicallythereafter, airspace over the drop zone contains a high
densityofairdropaircraft,whichcomplicatesfiresupportaspectsofairspacemanagement.
5-43. Airborne force vulnerability increases during the time between landing and assembly or seizure of
assaultobjectives.This timevariesbasedonforce size andthe mission variablesofMETT-TC.During this
vulnerable period, reliable communications are essential to coordinating and executing fire support
missions.
5-44. Calls for fire are sent under conditions where forces are in critical need of fire support. Units lack
firm knowledge of the situation, especially locating friendly and enemy forces. Calls for fire can come
whenreliablegroundcommunicationshavenotbeenfirmlyestablished.
5-45. Initially, artillery support in the airhead is limited. This situation occurs at the same time as the
arrivalofthe assault echelon ortheoperation’sopeningphase.Consequently,thebulkof fire supportmust
come from joint fire support assets and organic mortars. Fire support can be provided by the long-range
artillery of advancing friendly forces (if in range), Army long-range rocket or missile fire, and joint
interdiction.
INITIALAVAILABLEFIRESUPPORT
5-46. Joint fire support, organic mortars, and limited Army aviation and field artilleryare usuallythe only
fire support available to the airborne force until the lodgment is established. Examples of initial available
firesupportmissionsinclude:
(cid:122) Columncoverfortheassaultandfollow-upechelonsandresupplysorties.
(cid:122) Suppression of enemy air defenses along the corridor selected for penetration and near the
objective.
(cid:122) Counterairoperationstogainandmaintainairsuperiorityalongthecorridorandintheobjectivearea.
(cid:122) Pre-assaultfiresoftheairheadandothercriticaltargetsanddeception.
(cid:122) Field artillery may conduct counterair missions by striking enemy aircraft bases, helicopter
forwardaimingandrefuelpoints,missilestorage,andlaunchsites.
(cid:122) Airinterdictionoftheobjectiveareatoincludearmedreconnaissancemissionstargetedagainst
enemyforcesthatreacttotheairborneassault.
(cid:122) Airdefenseofmarshallingareas,resupplyairfields,andtheairhead.
(cid:122) Closeairsupport. |
3-99 | 91 | Landing Plan
FIRESUPPORTASSETS
5-47. Fire support assets can perform a variety of missions in support of the airborne assault. The
followingareexamplesofstandardmissionsarrangedbytypeofasset.
Joint AirSupport
5-48. Joint air support, preplanned and immediate, provides air interdiction and close air support to an
airborneoperation.Typesofsupportinclude:
(cid:122) Airinterdictionpre-assaultfireswithintheobjectiveareaandothercriticaltargets.
(cid:122) Suppressionofenemyairdefenses.
(cid:122) Electronicwarfare.
(cid:122) Closeairsupporttotheairborneassaultforce.
NavalGunFire
5-49. Naval gun fire, when available and in range, is a reliable, accurate, high-volume source of fire
support.Navalgunfireprovidesthefollowingtypesofsupport:
(cid:122) Pre-assaultfiresoftheobjectiveareaandothercriticaltargets.
(cid:122) Suppressionofenemyairdefenses.
(cid:122) Directsupportandgeneralsupportofforcesincontact.
(cid:122) Interdiction(landandsea).
Field Artillery
5-50. Artilleryoflinkupforceswithinrangecanprovidethefollowingsupport:
(cid:122) Interdictionfires.
(cid:122) Suppressionofenemyairdefensefires.
(cid:122) Counterfire.
(cid:122) Firestomaneuverunits.
ArmyAviation
5-51. Army aviation can conduct close combat attack when the intermediate staging base or forward
stagingbase is withinrange or whena secure airfield permitsairland and buildup of Armyaviation that is
transportedinUSAFairliftaircraft.Theycansupport—
(cid:122) Interdiction of enemy reaction forces, especially mechanized forces with accurate, long-range
antitankfires.
(cid:122) Seizureofassaultobjectiveswithrocketfireandgunfire.
(cid:122) Reconnaissanceandsurveillancetaskswithinandbeyondthesecurityarea.
FIRE SUPPORT CONSIDERATIONS
5-52. Fire support planning relies on careful, thorough planning based on fire support principles designed
tosupportmaneuver.Firesupportconsiderationsincludethefollowing.
UNITYOFCONTROLANDCONTINUOUSLIAISON
5-53. Unity of control may be met through the establishment of joint headquarters (such as a joint task
force) to include a joint operations center or other higher headquarters, which is responsible for
coordinatingfire support to the maneuver commander. Liaison, especiallybetween Army and USAF units,
is necessary at all echelons down to battalion/squadron level. It must be supported with adequate
communications to facilitate command and to control lateral dissemination of information and
coordination. Joint agreements, memorandums ofunderstanding, standard operatingprocedures, and signal
operating instructions all facilitate this effort. Example, each assault battalion and ABN IBCT must have
attachedtacticalaircontrolparty(TACP)andnavalgunfirelineofsight,ifnavalgunfireisavailable. |
3-99 | 92 | Chapter 5
CENTRALIZEDCOORDINATION
5-54. Due to the nature of the airhead and the required continuous airflow into the airhead, fire support
assets must be closely controlled to prevent fratricide and waste of assets. During the initial stages of an
airborne operation and before adequate ground communications can be established, coordination and
controloffiresupportareaccomplishedfromanairborneplatform.
5-55. On landing, each battalion/squadron or BCT or regimental headquarters establishes contact with the
airborne platform or joint airborne communications center/command post (JACC/CP) through the TACP.
Firesupport,suchascloseairsupport,beyond thatavailable fromorganicordirectsupport assetswouldbe
requested from the airborne platform. Prioritizing and coordinating requests are accomplished by the
groundforcecommander’srepresentativeintheairborneplatform.Hisresponsibilitiesincludethefollowing:
(cid:122) Preventfratricideofgroundpersonnel.
(cid:122) Ensurethatrequestsdonotinterferewithincomingserials,otheraircraft,ornavaloperations.
(cid:122) Determinethe fire supportmeans tobeemployedincoordinationwithappropriatecommander’s
staffmembers.
(cid:122) Determine, while coordinating with the command staff, added safety or control measures
requiredthentransmitthemtotheappropriateground elements.
5-56. For air missions, the commander’s staff establishes contact with the appropriate flight, provides
essential information, and then hands the flight off to the appropriate TACP or forward air controller for
mission execution. At that point, the mission is conducted the same way as conventional operations. If
naval gunfire or air support isavailable, it isessentialthat a navalgunfire liaisonofficer be presentinthe
airborneplatformtoperform a similarfunction.
5-57. Once adequate facilities have been established in the airhead, fire support coordination
responsibilitiesare passed fromthe airborne platform to the ground commander and his staff. (There isno
doctrinaltimeforthistransfer.)Insomesituations(forexample,raids),this cannotoccur;however,once an
ABNIBCTmainortacticalcommandpostisonthegroundtransfertakesplaceinmostcases.
COORDINATIONMEASURES
5-58. The ABNAFC, assigned an area of operation within the airhead, employs fire support coordination
measures (FSCMs) to facilitate rapid target engagement while simultaneously providing safeguards for
friendly forces. Boundaries are the basic FSCM. The fire support coordinator recommends additional
FSCMs to the commander based on the commander’s guidance, location of friendly forces, scheme of
maneuver,andanticipatedenemyactions.FSCMsareeitherpermissiveorrestrictive.
5-59. The primary purpose of permissive measures is to facilitate the attack of targets. Once they are
established, further coordination is not required to engage targets affected by the measures. Permissive
FSCMs include a coordinated fire line (CFL), a fire support coordination line (FSCL), and a free -fire
area(FFA).
5-60. Theprimarypurposeofrestrictive measures istoprovidesafeguards forfriendlyforces. A restrictive
FSCM prevents fires into or beyond the control measure without detailed coordination. Restrictive FSCM
include an airspace coordination area, a no-fire area (NFA), a restrictive fire area (RFA), and a restrictive
fire line (RFL). Establishing a restrictive measure imposes certain requirements for specific coordination
before the engagement of those targets affected by the measure. (Refer to FM 3-90-1 for a detailed
discussionofFSCMs.)
AIRMOVEMENTPLAN
5-61. Firesupportduringmovementtotheobjectivearea is theresponsibilityoftheairliftcommanderand
staff. However, the airborne force commander must be closely involved because of the possibility of
downedaircraftor a missionbeingdiverted.Planningconsiderationsinclude(cid:650)
(cid:122) Ensurefiresupportpersonnelandequipmentisincludedonloadplansandmanifests.
(cid:122) Plantargetsonenemy. |
3-99 | 93 | Landing Plan
ARTILLERYANDMORTAREMPLOYMENT
5-62. Theinitialphaseoftheairborneoperationisdecentralizedandflexibleuntiltheassaultobjectivesare
securedand the airhead is established. Duringparachute assaults, the organic field artillerybattalionof the
ABN IBCT provides field artillery support within the context of assigned tactical missions. Airborne
artilleryadherestotacticsandmethodsapplicabletootherartilleryunits. Mortarsproviderapidfiresupport
at the company and battalion level. If the battalion commander chooses to employ his mortars as a split
section,healsomustplanhowthemortarfiredirectioncenterwillcontrolfires.
NAVALGUNFIRE
5-63. Whenoperatingonislandsornearacoastline,navalgunfiresupportmaybeavailabletotheairborne
force.Navalgunscanprovidehigh-volume,accuratefiresemployingavarietyofammunition.
Airand NavalGunfireLiaisonCompany
5-64. The air-naval gunfire liaison company (ANGLICO) provides ship-to-shore communications and
long-range, firecontrolteamstoadjustfire.IntheabsenceofANGLICOfirecontrolteams,the firesupport
teamcancallforandadjustfiresthroughtheANGLICOteam.
ANGLICOOrganization
5-65. Deployed ANGLICO forces comprise a command element, operational element (air/naval gun fire
teams),andsupportelement.Forcesareasfollows:
(cid:122) The company is organized into groupings. The headquarters or support section and divisional
air/naval gun fire section give command, control, administration, training, and logistics support
forthe company.Theyprovidefiresupportplanningand liaisonpersonnelto theairborne force.
Three ABN IBCT air/naval gun fire platoons provide liaison and control for air and naval gun
firetotheassaultcompanies,battalion,andtheABNIBCT.
(cid:122) Each ABN IBCT platoon divides into an ABN IBCT team and two supporting arms liaison
teams, which support two forward battalions. Each supporting arms liaison team has two
firepowercontrolteams,whichsupporttheforwardcompaniesofthebattalions.
(cid:122) The ANGLICO assists the staff in matters concerning air and naval gun fire. It coordinates
requests for air and naval gun fire support from the battalions and squadron of the ABN IBCT
andrepresentstheairbornemissioncontrolplatform,ifrequired.
(cid:122) The liaison officer and firepower control teams operate in the ground spot network. They
communicate with the ship by HF radio to request and adjust naval gun fire. The firepower
control team communicates with the liaison officer, using VHF radios. The liaison officer can
communicatewithaircraftusingUHFradios.
TacticalMissions
5-66. Naval gunfire ships are assigned one of two tactical missions—direct support or general support.
Missionsareasfollows:
(cid:122) Directsupport.Ashipin directsupportof aspecific unitdelivers bothplannedandon-call fires.
(On-call fires are to the ship what targets of opportunity are to artillery units.) A fire control
partywith thesupportedunitconductsandadjustson-call fires;theycanbeadjustedbyan naval
gunfireairspotter.
(cid:122) General support. Generalsupport missionsare assigned to ships supportingunitsof ABN IBCT
size or larger. The fires of the general support ship are adjusted by an aerial observer or the
liaison officer assign the fires of the ship to a battalion supporting arms liaison team for fire
missions.Completingthemission,theshiprevertstodirectsupport.
CoordinationandControlMeasures
5-67. Coordination and control measures that apply to naval gun fire are the same as for field artillery
exceptforaddingthetermsfiresupportareaandfiresupportstation.Theyareasfollows: |
3-99 | 94 | Chapter 5
(cid:122) Fire support area. The fire support area is a sea area within which a ship can position or cruise
while firing in support. It is labeled with the letters “FSA” followed by a Roman numeral–for
example,FSAVII.
(cid:122) Firesupportstation.Thefire supportstationis a specifiedpositionatsea fromwhich a shipmust
fire; it is restrictive positioning guidance. It is labeled with the letters “FSS” and followed by a
Romannumeral(cid:650)forexample,FSSVII.
AIR OPERATIONS
5-68. Air operations normallyare conducted usingcentralized control and decentralized execution and are
integral to an airborne operation. They are performed concurrently and are mutually supporting and are
planned with ample communications for liaison and control. The following paragraphs discuss counterair
operations, close air support, air interdiction, airborne intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, airlift
missions,specializedtasks,andairoperationsplanninginsupportofairborneoperations.
COUNTERAIROPERATIONS
5-69. The ultimate objective of counterair operations is to gain and maintain theater air supremacy. This
has two purposes. It prevents enemy forces from effectively interfering with friendly areas and activities,
and it precludes prohibitive interference with offensive air operations in the enemy area. This is
accomplished by destroying or neutralizing the enemy’s air offensive and defensive systems. (Refer to
JP 3-01formoreinformation.)
OffensiveCounterairOperations
5-70. Offensive counterair operationsare conducted to seekoutand neutralizeor destroyenemyair forces
at a chosentime and place.Theyareessentialtogainair supremacyandto provide a favorable situationfor
othermissions.Typicaltargetsinclude(cid:650)
(cid:122) Enemyaircraft.
(cid:122) Airfields.
(cid:122) Tacticalmissilecomplexes.
(cid:122) Commandandcontrolfacilities.
(cid:122) Petroleum,oilandlubricantsandmunitionsstoragefacilities.
(cid:122) Aircraftsupportequipmentandtheircontrolsystems.
SuppressionofEnemyAirDefense
5-71. Suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD) is conducted to neutralize, destroy, or temporarily
degrade enemy air defense systems in a specific area by physical attack, electronic warfare, or both.
Airborne electronic warfare assets (See ATP 3-36.) often are used inconjunction with other air operations
or mission and are especially important to SEAD operations throughout the airborne operation. (Refer
toATP 3-01.4 formore information.)
DefensiveCounterairOperations
5-72. Defensive counterair operations contribute to local air control by countering enemy offensive
actions. By countering enemy offensive actions, theater forces can effectively use an in-place and
operational radar warning and control system, consisting of both ground and airborne elements. They
integrateandcontroltheemploymentoffightersandairdefenseartillery.
5-73. Counterairtasksthatareemployedas a partofoffensiveanddefensive counterair operationsinclude
air-to-surface attacks, fighter sweeps, and the protection warfighting function (escort). Field artillery may
conduct counterair missions by striking enemy aircraft bases, helicopter forward arming and refuel points,
andmissilestorageandlaunchsites. |
3-99 | 95 | Landing Plan
CLOSEAIRSUPPORT
5-74. Theobjectivesofclose airsupport aretosupportsurface operationsbyattackinghostiletargetsclose
tofriendlysurface forces.Eachairmissionrequiresdetailedintegrationwiththose forces.(RefertoJP3-09.3for
moreinformation.)
AIRINTERDICTION
5-75. Theobjectivesofairinterdictionaretodelay,disrupt,divert,ordestroyanenemy’smilitarypotential
before it can be brought to bear effectively against friendly ground forces. These combat operations are
performedfarenoughawayfromfriendlysurfaceforcessothatdetailedintegrationofspecificactions with
themaneuveroffriendlyforcesisnotpossibleorrequired.(RefertoJP3-03formoreinformation.)
AIRBORNEINTELLIGENCE,SURVEILLANCE,ANDRECONNAISSANCE
5-76. Airborne intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions are directed toward satisfying the
requirements of joint force and component commanders engaged in surface and air operations within the
joint operational area. The JFC’s J-2 and J-3 jointlydevelop an overall collection strategy and posture for
the execution of the intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. These airborne missions
provide timelyinformation, either visuallyobserved or sensor recorded,fromwhichintelligence is derived
for all forces. Surveillance operations continuously collect information; reconnaissance operations are
directedtowardlocalizedorspecifictargets. (RefertoJP3-30formoreinformation.)
AIRLIFTMISSIONS
5-77. Thebasicmissionofairliftis passengerand cargomovement. Thisincludescombat employmentand
sustainment, combat airlift missions that rapidly move forces, equipment and supplies from one area to
another in response to changing conditions. Within airborne operations, combat employment missions
allow a commander to insert surface forces directly and quickly into a objective area or airhead and to
sustaincombatoperationsthroughair landingoffollow-on forcesand sustainmentoperations. (Refer to JP
3-17formoreinformation.)
SPECIALIZEDTASKS
5-78. Specialized tasks are those operation conducted in direct or indirect support of primary air and
ground missions. These activities include, but are not limited to electronic combat, combat search and
rescue,andairrefuelingoperations.
AIROPERATIONSPLANNING
5-79. Planning for air operations begins with understandingthe JFC’s and ABNTFC’s mission and intent,
and occurs in a collaborative manner with other components to integrate operations across the joint force.
The joint air operations plan is the JFC’s plan to integrate and coordinate joint air operations and
encompasses air capabilities and forces supported by, and in support of, the airborne operation and other
jointforcecomponentsinthe objectivearea.
CommandandControlof JointAirOperations
5-80. With thebeginningofairoperations intheobjectivearea,provisionmustbe madeforcommandand
controlair operations withthe supported ground effort. Ajointoperationscenter, where the supportingair
component and the airborne force is represented, performs the planning, integration, direction, and
supervision of the air effort according to the needs of the airborne force. Command and control
considerationsforairoperationsduringairborneoperationsinclude:
(cid:122) Preparation. If an airborne operation includes tactical air elements, the joint force commander
directs part or all of the preliminary air efforts while other preparations for the operation are
completed. Air support before and during the mounting of an airborne operation is a USAF
responsibility . When the airborne force does not include tactical air elements. Therefore, |
3-99 | 96 | Chapter 5
requests from the joint airborne force commander involving both reconnaissance and fire
missionsareprocessedthroughnormaljointoperationscenterchannels.
(cid:122) Assault. Requirements during the assault phase are the same for all airborne operations. During
the dropping or air landing and assemblyof assault elements, aircraft that are on air alertstatus
overdropzonesorlandingzonesdefendagainsthostilesurfaceoraerialreactiontotheassault.
(cid:122) Consolidation and exploitation. Air control network facilities in excess of tactical air control
parties and airborne platforms are meager until the air landing of more supplies and
reinforcements during this phase. In an operation, that does not involve an immediate linkup
after seizureof objectives;the air landingofreinforcingor supportingelementsprovides for the
rapid expansion and improvement of tactical air control networks to meet the needs of
anticipatedemergencies.
Aircraft providing support subsequent to the assault phase are based within the objective
(cid:132)
area, outside the objective area, or both. In view of the logistics demands of aircraft, air
supportisbased withinthe objective area onlywhenitcannotbeeffectivelyprovided from
outside. Limitations in the effective radius of aircraft are the determining factors. An
airstriporsufficientlyadaptableterrainisoneofthesefactorsinselectinganobjectivearea.
A singlecommanderinthe objectiveareahascommandoverbothground andairelements.
(cid:132)
However,anofficerchargedwithbroaderresponsibilities whoseheadquartersisoutside the
objectiveareacanretainsuchcommand.
IntegrationtoSupportGroundOperations
5-81. Adequate air support of an airborne operation requires some integration of airborne forces and air
activityinsupportofgroundoperations.
(cid:122) The air operations plan is based on the overall USAF mission and the amount of available
strategic,tactical,and airlifteffort.Theeffectofforecasted weather enrouteandintheproposed
areaofoperationmustbeconsidered.
(cid:122) Offensive and defensive air operations must be continuouslyplanned in support of an objective
area. Immediate air support must be continuouslyavailable (onair alert) in spite ofan apparent
absenceoftargets.
AirTraffic Control
5-82. Airtrafficcontrolinthe airhead isinitiallyanUSAFcombatcontrolteamresponsibility. Augmented
combat control teams can be replaced byArmy air traffic control units at a later time. Air traffic services
provided to airborne forces come fromcontingencycorps assets. Liaison, beacon, and tower teams are the
mostfrequentlyemployedelements.Actionsareasfollows:
(cid:122) During alert, marshalling, and deployment, a liaison team is sent to the headquarters that is
planning the operation; it serves as a part of the section and provides advice on airspace
management, especially in the airhead. The main concern in planning is the handoff between
combat control teams and air traffic control parties. Combat control teams control the airhead
withtheadviceandassistancefromairtrafficcontrolpersonneluntilfollow-onairtrafficcontrol
elementsarrive.
(cid:122) Beacon and tower teams deploy with the aviation or ABNAF main command post attached to
the S-3 section. These teams provide initial air traffic control in the airhead. The beacon team
provides terminal guidance for Army aircraft from their intermediate staging base into the
airfield. The tower team augments the combat control team party. The amount of control given
upbycombatcontrolteamstoairtrafficcontrolteamsdependsonthesizeoftheairflow.
(cid:122) Operational control of air traffic control assets usually passes to the senior aviation unit
commander once he is established in the airhead. Forward arming and refueling point and
aviation assembly area operations include air traffic control elements and services, as specified
bythesenioraviationunitcommander. |
3-99 | 97 | Landing Plan
SECTION IV – ASSEMBLY AND REORGANIZATION
5-83. Thesuccess orfailureofthe missioncandependon howfast the airborne force canregain its tactical
integrity. The first goal of an airborne assault must be to deliver and assemble all available combat power
as rapidly as possible. The more rapidly assault force personnel assemble and reorganize as squads,
platoons, and companies, the sooner they can derig equipment and conduct the operations plan as a
cohesive force. How efficiently and rapidly this happens is a direct result of detailed planning, cross
loadingonassaultaircraft,andassemblyandreorganizationonthedropzone.
ASSEMBLY
5-84. Because the assemblyisa keyto success, it mustbe as deliberate and simple aspossible. Assembly
is more than accounting for personnel; the commander must ensure the force has regained its tactical
integrity,andisorganizedand preparedtofightasacombined armsteam.Theslower the forceassembles,
themoreitrisksfailure.Anairborneforce’sassemblyplanconsistsmainlyofthefollowingtasks:
(cid:122) Establishandsecureassembleareasand/orassaultpositions.
(cid:122) Placeallorganicandattached weaponsystemsintoactionasquicklyaspossible.
(cid:122) Reestablishmissioncommand (suchasradionetworksorreportingtohigherheadquarters).
(cid:122) Assembletheforceandaccountforcasualtiesandstragglers.
CROSSLOADINGFORRAPIDASSEMBLY
5-85. Cross loading of key personnel and equipment is an important factor in rapid assembly. Careful
attentionisgiventocrossloadingandincludesthefollowingactions:
(cid:122) Personnel. Separate keypersonnel incase anaircraftabortsor failsto reachthe drop zone.This
preventsthelossofmorethanonekeyofficerornoncommissionedofficerofaunit.
(cid:122) Heavyequipmentdrop loads. Alwaysplanfor thepossibilitythatoneor more heavy equipment
drop aircraft aborts before it gets to the drop zone or the equipment streams in and becomes
unserviceable.
(cid:122) Individual equipment and weapons. Planners should separate radios, mortars, antitank weapons,
ammunitionbundles,andothercriticalequipmentorsuppliesas muchaspossible.Nolikeitems
ofcombat-essentialequipmentfromthesameunitshouldbeonthesameaircraftifpossible.
(cid:122) Paratroopers jumping additional equipment containers or weapons systems such as antitank
weapons should be jumped at any position in the stick to support cross loading and assembly
plans. The commander must make a risk assessment when locating paratroopers in the stick
carryingthisequipment.
(cid:122) Risks to both the paratrooper and mission accomplishment are present. If the paratrooper falls
inside the aircraft, the remainder of the personnel may not be able to exit on that pass. In
addition,thisequipmentincreasestherisksoftheparatrooperbeingtowedoutsidetheaircraft.
ASSEMBLYMETHODS
5-86. Based on the mission variables of METT-TC, the ground force commander mayelect to use one of
thefollowingmethods:
(cid:122) Assembly on the assault objective. This method may be used when speed is essential, the
objectiveislightlydefended,ortheenemycanbesuppressed.
(cid:122) Assemblyon the dropzone. Thismethod may beused when:thedropzonedoesnotusefollow-
onforces,speed isnotessential,and dismounted avenuesofapproachfromthe dropzoneto the
objectiveareavailable.
(cid:122) Assemblyadjacenttothedropzone.Thismethod may beemployed whenthe dropzoneis tobe
usedbyfollow-onforcesorifthedropzoneiscompromisedduringtheairborneassault.
ASSEMBLYAIDS
5-87. To speed up assembly after landing, airborne forces use assembly aids to orient themselves on the
ground and to locate their unit’s assembly area. Assembly aids help identify personnel, equipment, and |
3-99 | 98 | Chapter 5
points or areas on the ground. Units can use visual, audible, electronic, natural, or individual aids; for
reliability and ease of recognition, units combine these. Operators of assembly aids land as close as
possible to their assembly area so they can mark the area. An USAF combat control team or LRSC team
may place assembly aids if the situation permits. Partisans, special operations forces personnel, or high-
performance aircraft can deliver assembly aids. Whenever possible, regardless of the method chosen to
emplacetheaids,commandersshouldprovidebackuppersonnel,backupaids,andbackupdeliverymeans.
ControlPosts
5-88. Anassemblycontrolpostisestablished by a smallpartyequipped withassembly aids, which moves
after landing to a predesignated location to help assemble assault forces. (See figures 5-3 and 5-4.) Each
drop zone or landing zone has a control post in or near the unit assembly area to coordinate and regulate
assembly. No standard organization exists for control posts; their composition varies with the size of the
parentunit,thenumberandtypeofassemblyaids,theterrain,andtheassignedmission.
Figure 5-3. Assembly control posts for ABN IBCT forces landing on one drop zone |
3-99 | 99 | Landing Plan
Figure 5-4. Movement of personnel to company assembly area
Line-of-Flight or ClockSystem
5-89. The line of flight parallels the parachute-landing pattern. This helps each paratrooper establish his
own landing position relative to those of the other members of their planeload. Leaders use the clock
system to brief personnel, calling the direction of flight 12 o’clock. (See figure 5-5, page 5-21.) After
landing, personnel assemble to the right of the drop zone at 3 o’clock or to the left of the drop zone at 9
o’clock. |
3-99 | 100 | Chapter 5
Figure 5-5. Line-of-flight/clock system
NaturalAssemblyAids
5-90. These aids include landmarks or easilyrecognizable terrain features that forces can use as assembly
aidsor thatpersonnel can orient their movement on.These featuresinclude hills; streamjunctions;clumps
of woods;or man-made objectslike radio towers, bridges, buildings, crossroads, or railroads. Units cannot
rely on natural features as the primary assembly aid. The assembly plan must be usable regardless of the
drop zone. Executing contingency plans en route may require assembly on an alternate drop zone; an
emergencyexitfromtheaircraftcanplaceparatroopersonanunfamiliardropzone.
AssemblyEquipment
5-91. Airborne forces carry visual, audible, or electronic aids to help them assemble. Planners assign
different colors, sounds, and coded signals to each unit. The unit standard operating procedures
standardizes assembly aids. However, units can adapt assembly aids to fit specific situations or
environments. Terrain restrictions and battlefield noise do not restrict the use of the best assembly aids,
whicharesimpletouse.Unitsusuallyusevisualassemblyaids.Assemblyequipmentmayinclude:
(cid:122) Visual aids. Visual aids include visible light sources (such as beacons, flashlights, strobe lights,
or signal mirrors; panels; flags), balloons; infrared lights (such as metascopes, flashlights with
filters, infrared weapons sights, or starlight scopes); pyrotechnics; and chemical lights. These
aidsare simple to use and afford positive identificationof assemblyareas. However, the enemy
can see themas well as friendlypersonnel can. The Stiner aid has a cloth panel with a colored
letter; that is, HHC=White “H.” They are the same color for night use. (See figure 5-6.) It has
pocketsforchemicallights;the letterandpockets areonboth sides.It is mountedon a sectional
aluminumpolethatfitsinto a weaponscase. |
3-99 | 101 | Landing Plan
Figure 5-6. Stiner aid
(cid:122) Audible aids. Audible aids especially help small units assemble at night. They include tin
crickets, sirens, cowbells, air horns, triangles, dinner bells, ratchets, drums, gongs, whistles,
bugles,andvoice signals. Theyareusedtoidentifyindividualsor assemblyareas.Strongwinds,
gunfire, aircraft sounds, an elevation high above sea level, and other factors can limit their
effectiveness.The normalsoundsofthe battlefield easily maskor confuse the soundsofaudible
assemblyaids.
(cid:122) Electronic aids. Units can use organic radios to direct small units to assembly areas, using
landmarks as references. Theycan use radio homing devices. A homingdevice is a lightweight
attachment to a standard field radio; it is an excellent aid for day or night assembly. With it, a
radiotelephone operator (RATELO) can pick up a coded signal beam from a transmitter at the
assembly area. By following the beam, the RATELO homes in on the transmitter and leads the
unit to the assembly area. Signal crews can make equipment homing assembly aids from a
standard portable field radio or transmitter. The unit attaches the radio to the equipment and
turns it to a designated frequency. They encase it in shock-absorbing material just before its
extraction from the aircraft. This method is especially useful for assembling crews on heavy
equipmentdroploads.
(cid:122) Field-expedient aids. The unit uses numerous field-expedient assembly aids; only the Soldiers’
imaginationslimitthechoices.Forexample,theycanburngasoline-soakedsand incans orother
containers; fashion a light gun or a one-direction light source by placing a flashlight in the
receiverof a grenadelauncher orother tube system;or lift a deployed main orreserve parachute
sootherunitmemberscansee it.
IdentificationMarkings
5-92. Identification markings aid positive, rapid identification of personnel and equipment that speed up a
unit’s assembly. The airborne force standardizes personnel and equipment markings for all subordinate
units.Specificsonmarkingsareasfollows:
(cid:122) Personnel markings. Soldiers use individual assembly aids to help recognize individuals and
assemble units.Individualaidsinclude colored armbandsor helmetbands, distinctive patchesor
designs on uniforms, or helmet bands of luminous tape. Sortie commanders and key leaders,
jumpmasters, safeties, other jumpmaster personnel, medics, and bump personnel use distinctive
markings. Larger force standard operating procedures prescribe unit designations to prevent
duplicationandtoallowunit-wideunderstanding.
(cid:122) Equipmentmarkings. Aerialequipmentcontainersareidentifiedbysimple,distinctive markings.
Distinctive unit markings are prescribed by larger force (ABN IBCT or division) standard
operating procedures to prevent duplication and to assist in recognition by other units. Unit
codes are placedon thebottomandall sidesofeachcontainer;theyshouldbevisibleforatleast
50 meters. Various color parachute canopies, container colors, luminous tape and paints, smoke
grenades, homing devices and lights can be used with the containers to facilitate identification
onthegroundandintheair.Lightsandhomingdevicesattachedtoequipmentcanbeactivated |
3-99 | 102 | Chapter 5
manuallyaboardtheaircraftjustbeforeextraction,eitherbyimprovisedtimer,orontheground
bythefirstindividualtoreachtheequipment.
(cid:122) Assault aircraft markings. A simple code symbol (using various designs, colors, and
combinations of letters and numbers) can be painted on both sides of the fuselage of assault
forceaircrafttoidentifythecontents.Thissymbolislargeenoughtobeseen,anditindicatesnot
onlythetypeofequipmentcontainedintheaircraftbuttheunittowhichtheequipmentbelongs.
FORCEASSEMBLY
5-93. Commanders base the assembly of the airborne force on a simple, flexible plan that adapts to any
likelysituation.Assaultforcesassemblespeedily,silently,andwithoutconfusion.
DropZoneAssembly
5-94. Whenmovingtoanassemblyareafirstasopposedtoanassaultobjective,tospeedassemblyonthe
dropzone,forcesshould—
(cid:122) Establish an assembly control point. Location of this point is dependent upon unit scheme of
maneuver. A designatedassemblycontrolpointofficerincharge ornon-commissionedofficerin
chargeaccountsforallparatroopersastheyreporttothecontrolpoint.Hethenconfirmsazimuth
anddistancetotheassemblyarea,orifthesituationchangesgives a newazimuthanddistanceto
analternateassemblyarea.
(cid:122) Establishtheassemblyarea. Locate the forceassemblyarea in a coveredandconcealedposition
off the drop zone. The first group to arrive in the unit assemblyarea should first establish local
security, and then establish the predetermined assembly aid as soon as possible to assist in
directingtherestoftheunittotheassemblyarea.
(cid:122) Depart the assemblyarea. Move out rapidlyon assigned mission once enough combat power is
established. Leave a small element in the assembly area to assemble and account for personnel
thathave notarrivedforlaterlinkup.
TroopBriefings
5-95. Assault force personnel must understand individual actions during assembly. Personnel briefings
includethefollowinginformation:
(cid:122) Briefassaultforcepersonneland rebriefthemonthe assemblyplanfor theirunitandonthoseof
otherunitsscheduledtosharethesamedropzone.
(cid:122) Usevisualaidssuchasmaps, aerialphotos,terrainmodels,andsandtables.
(cid:122) Warn personnel to resist guiding on what appears to be a prominent terrain feature on a map.
Once theyare onthe ground, the terrainfeature probablycannotbe seen. Thisis especiallytrue
ifpersonnellandonthe wrongdropzoneoronthe wrongpartof a dropzone.
(cid:122) Usetheclockdirectionalsystem.Instructpersonneltoorientthemselvesandthegenerallocation
oftheassemblyareabythedirectionofflight.
Note.Regardlessoftheactualazimuth,thedirectionofflightis always12o’clock.
FACTORSAFFECTINGASSEMBLY
5-96. When preparing the assembly plan consider dispersion (such as the speed, altitude, and flight
formation of airlift aircraft and their effect (along with wind) of personnel and equipment in landing. The
resultantlandingpatternsignificantlyaffectsassembly, asdoesthe dropzone lengthandwidth,the training
leveloftheairborneforcesandpilots,theenemysituation,andcrossloading.
Dispersion
5-97. Theextentofdispersionis the resultofthe airliftformation; type, speed, and altitudeofthe aircraft;
number of serials;sequence ofdeliveryweather conditions; and aircrewproficiency. Dispersioncoversthe
following: |
3-99 | 103 | Landing Plan
(cid:122) The speed at whichairplanes carryingparatroopers cross the drop zone affects the length ofthe
landingpattern.Thegreaterthespeed,the greaterthedistancethatiscoveredbetweentheexitof
eachparatrooper,thusincreasing thelengthofthelandingpattern.Planes cross the dropzoneas
slowlyasissafelypossible,andparatroopersexitrapidlytoreducedispersion.
(cid:122) Asparatroopersdescend,theydriftwiththeprevailingwind,butusuallynotatauniformratefor
eachparatrooper.Theycanpassthroughstrataofvarying winddirectionandvelocitythatcauses
somedispersionwithin the force.Duetothe windandhigher altitude,thereis a greatpossibility
ofdispersion. Therefore,theaircraftcrossthe dropzone atminimumaltitudesthatareconsistent
withthesafetyofaircraftandparatroopers.
(cid:122) In parachute landings, the width of the landing pattern of paratroopers and equipment is the
approximate width of the aircraft formation at the time of the drop. Therefore, keep the
formation tight as possible to keep paratrooper and equipment together. If possible, place a
company or battalion in the flight formation so that all planeloads of the force land in a small
patternascloseaspracticabletotheassemblyarea.
DropZoneVisibility
5-98. Darkness, fog, haze, rain, brush, trees, and terrain affect drop zone visibility on the ground, and
henceimpactonassembly. Darknesscomplicatesassembly—poorvisibilityanddifficultyinidentifyingor
recognizing assembly areas, control posts, personnel, and equipment. Although it provide concealment,
darknesscontributestoconfusion,tostragglers,andtothelossofequipment. Anassemblyduringdarkness
takeslongerandrequiresmoreelaborateassemblyaidsandlargercontrolpoststhanadaylightassembly.
StateofProficiency
5-99. One of the most important factors that affect rapid assembly is proficiency. Assault forces must
conductparachute assaultsand assemble astheywould in combat. For specific missions, previoustraining
is built on and tailored through detailed briefings to include maps, photos, and terrain models. When
possible, rehearsals using assembly methods planned for the assault are used. Thorough orientation,
rigorous training, aggressive leadership, and individual initiative have the single greatest impact on an
airborneassaultandassembly.
Enemy
5-100. Enemy action can have both a direct and indirect effect on assembly. Enemy action indirectly
affects en route airlift capability to deliver the force to the correct drop zone. It directly affects friendly
assembly once on the ground. Enemy opposition during or immediately after landing is a critical
considerationaffectingassemblyduetotheunusualvulnerabilityofthe airborneforcebetweenlandingand
the completion of assembly or seizure of assault objectives. While the commander should attempt to
achieve an unopposed landing, every possible provision is made to deal with enemy resistance. This
requires accurate intelligence, responsive fires, and effective OPSEC and military deception. When
assembly is on the assault objective, individuals linkup as they move using appropriate movement
techniquesinaccordancewiththeoperationplan.
MULTIPLEPOINTSOFIMPACT
5-101. Aslightlymorecomplicated but moreefficient method to facilitate rapid assemblyofparatroopers,
container delivery systems, and heavy equipment drop loads is the use of multiple points of impact. The
theory and methods of cross loading apply as much to this method of delivery as to any other. When the
USAFdropsparatroopersalongasingletrack(line offlight) downthecenter ofthedropzonetheyuse just
one personnel and one heavy equipment drop impact point. When conducting multiple points of impact,
USAFaircraftflymultipletracks acrossthedropzoneanduse multipleimpactpointsonthedrop zone.By
efficientcross loading, selectingassemblyareas,andcarefullyselecting personnel andequipmentpointsof
impact,personnel,units, andequipmentcanbedeliveredcloser to assemblyareasthanthe single-track, one
personnel and one heavy equipment drop point of impact method. (Refer to FM 3-21.38 for more
information.) |
3-99 | 104 | Chapter 5
KEYSTORAPIDASSEMBLY
5-102. Rapid assembly results from well thought out and rehearsed cross loading to include heavy
equipment drop loads, and a thorough, but simple plan that applies for all drop zones. Take the following
actions:
(cid:122) Usetheclocksystem (notmagneticazimuthsystem nornorth,south,east,west)fordirectionor
routetotheassemblyarea.
(cid:122) Useassemblyareasthatareeasy tofindwithoutcomplicatedassemblyaids,evenifdroppedon
the wrongpartofthedropzoneoronanunplanned dropzone.
(cid:122) Be prepared with both dayand night assembly aids, especiallyfor drops scheduled at dawn
ordusk.
(cid:122) Locateassemblyareasascloseaspossibletowherepersonnelland.
(cid:122) To permit rapid assembly, never locate assembly areas at either end of the drop zone.
(Paratroopersshould nothavetowalkfromoneendtotheother.)
(cid:122) Usepersonnel,unit,andequipmentmarkingstospeedassembly.
(cid:122) Brieftoallunitswhatmarkingthe same serialwilluse.
(cid:122) Usesandtablesextensivelytobriefonandrehearseassemblyproceduresasoftenaspossible.
ASSEMBLYAREAACTIVITIES
5-103. Not only do forces assemble as quickly as they can, but they get out of the assembly area as
quickly as possible. They remain in the assembly area only long enough to establish mission command,
task organize for furtheroperations, and to determine the statusofassembly. Theymodifyplansasneeded
tomeetchangesinthesituationandissueordersasappropriate.
5-104. Subordinate units determine minimum forces necessary to depart assembly areas early in the
planning process. As the unit assembles on the drop zone, it immediately moves to its assault objectives
onceminimumforceisestablished.
DepartureFromtheAssemblyArea
5-105. Battalion assault forces proceed on their assigned mission when assembly is complete or on order
of the ABN IBCT commander. Reorganization of an assault force is complete when all subordinate units
are assembled and command and fire control communications channels are established. As a result of
inaccuratelandings,enemyaction,orassemblydelays,assaultforcesmayhavetoattackbeforeassemblyis
complete. The ABN IBCT commander or acting commander makes this decision. In the absence of other
orders, the battalion commander decides when enough of his battalion assault force has assembled to
accomplish the mission. The time or conditions for assault forces to move out on their assigned missions
areordinarilyestablishedintheoperationplanbyhigherheadquarters.
Reports
5-106. Because of the dispersion of personnel and equipment in landing, the possibility of inaccurate
landings,andthe potentiallossofaircraftduringthe air movement, commandersatalllevels mustlearnthe
status of personnel and equipment in their units as soon as possible after landing. They need this
information to determine combat power before executing the ground tactical plan. Reporting actions may
include:
(cid:122) All forces report their personnel and equipment status to the next higher unit at predetermined
times or intervals until reorganization is complete. These status reports indicate the location of
the unit; the number of personnel assembled and the number of known casualties; the number
and type of crew-served weapons, vehicles, radios, and other recovered key equipment; and
information available on missing personnel and equipment. Forces make abbreviated status
reports from the drop zone as soon as they establish radio communications in accordance with
standardoperatingprocedures. |
3-99 | 105 | Landing Plan
(cid:122) As personnel arrive in assembly areas, units make status reports by squad, platoon, and
company. As commanders establish command posts in the assembly areas, they receive status
reportsfromwithinthebattalionbyradio,messenger,ordirectcontactbetweencommanders.
Security
5-107. Assault forces of the airborne operation are responsible for their own security once on the ground
as they are vulnerableto enemyattackfromall directionsduring assembly. Forthis reason,and becauseof
thesizeofdropzonesorlandingzones,protectionrequirementsaregreatincomparisonwiththesizeofthe
airborneforce.Assaultforceactionsmayinclude:
(cid:122) Insmall-unitdrops,jumpmastersorchalkleadersmayprovidelocalsecurityastheirplane loads
assembleandrecoverequipmentdroppedinaerialdeliverycontainers.
(cid:122) Leadersofair-landedpersonnelprovidelocalsecuritywhiletheequipmentisoffloaded.
(cid:122) Personnel linkup as the move to assembly areas using movement techniques as the situation
dictatesforsecurityaswellasspeedandcontrol.
REORGANIZATION
5-108. Reorganization includes all measures taken by the commander to maintain unit combat
effectivenessorreturn ittoaspecified levelofcombatcapability(FM3-90-1).Reorganizationisaddressed
in the landing plan and starts during assembly in assembly areas. If the enemy situation permits, assault
forcesmayassembleonassaultobjectivesafterlanding.Planningconsiderationsforreorganizationinclude(cid:650)
(cid:122) Designationandlocationofunitassemblyareasand/orassaultobjectives.
(cid:122) Useofassemblycontrolpostsandassemblyaids.
(cid:122) Establishmentofcommandandfirescommunicationsnetworks.
(cid:122) Reportingrequirements.
(cid:122) Limitedvisibility.
(cid:122) Securityoperations.
(cid:122) Reconnaissanceandsurveillancetasks.
(cid:122) Coordinationandfinalpreparationsbeforetheseizureofassaultobjectives.
(cid:122) Minimumforcerequirementstoconductmission.
(cid:122) Timeorconditionsforassaultforcestomoveoutonmissions.
(cid:122) Designatedpersonnelremainonthedropzoneorlandingzoneto:
Assembleandprovidesecurityforstragglers.
(cid:132)
Careforcasualties.
(cid:132)
Completetherecoveryofaccompanyingordelayedequipmentandsupplies.
(cid:132)
Establishstragglercontrolandlaterlinkup withthemainforce.
(cid:132) |
3-99 | 107 | Chapter 6
Air Movement Plan
After development, backbriefs, and approval of the landing plan, planners begin to
finalize the air movement plan. This plan is the third step in planning an airborne
operation and supports both the landing plan and the ground tactical plan. It provides
the required information to move the airborne force from the departure airfield to the
objective area.The plan includes the period fromwhen forces load until they exit the
aircraft. The air movement plan is a tab to the airborne operations appendix within
AnnexC, Operations.
SECTION I – JOINT PLANNING
6-1. Airborne assaults are inherently joint operations with specific service component responsibilities.
Deliveryby USAFairlift will befromeither the continentalUnited States,anintermediate stagingbase,or
a theater airbase. Although the commander, airlift force is solely responsible for executing the air
movement phase (See JP 3-17.), the ABNTFC normally exercises responsibility for the airlift plan, to
includepriorityofairdropandairland sorties,the preparatoryfiresplan,andthe ground tactical planinthe
airhead.
6-2. The ABNAF contributes its landing plan and the procedures for controlling and positioning
personnel at the departure airfield. The airlift force controls takeoff times and, based on the ABNAF’s
landing plan, coordinates air operations and timing between different departure airfields, to ensure the
proper arrival sequence at the drop zone, and/or landing zone (See JP 3-30.). The airlift force designates
rendezvouspointsand developstheflight routediagrams. The ABNTFoperationplanandABNAFground
tacticalplandetermineflightroutesandorientationofdropzonesandlandingzones.
SECTION II – ELEMENTS OF THE AIR MOVEMENT PLAN
6-3. The movementplanincludestheperiodfromwhenforcesload untiltheyexittheaircraft.Elements
oftheairmovementplaninclude(cid:650)
(cid:122) Airmovementtable.
(cid:122) Typesofmovement.
(cid:122) Aircraftrequirements.
AIR MOVEMENT TABLE
6-4. The air movement table forms the principal part of the air movement plan with the following
information:
(cid:122) Departureairfieldforeachserial.
(cid:122) Numberofaircraftforeachserial.
(cid:122) Chalk numbers for each aircraft, each serial, and each departure airfield; aircraft tail numbers
correspondtoaircraftchalknumbers.
(cid:122) Unitidentityoftheairliftelement.
(cid:122) Name/rankofeachUSAFserialcommander.
(cid:122) Numberandtypeaircraft.
(cid:122) Employmentmethodforeachaircraft.
(cid:122) Armyforceidentity. |
3-99 | 108 | Chapter 6
(cid:122) NameandrankofeachArmycommander.
(cid:122) Loadtimes.
(cid:122) Stationtimes.
(cid:122) Takeofftimes.
(cid:122) Designatedprimaryandalternatedropzonesforeachserial.
(cid:122) P-hourfortheleadaircraftofeachserial.(Giveninrealtime.)
(cid:122) Remarkssuchasspecialinstructions,keyequipment,and locationofkeymembersofthechain
ofcommand.
6-5. Besidestheairmovementtables,theairmovement plancontainsthefollowinginformation(cid:650)
(cid:122) Flightroutediagram.
(cid:122) Serialformation.
(cid:122) Airtrafficcontrol.
(cid:122) Concentrationformovement.
(cid:122) Allowablecabin/cargoloads.
(cid:122) Airfield/forwardlogisticsiteaircraftmaneuverongroundspace.
(cid:122) Aircraftparkingdiagram.
(cid:122) Armypersonnelandequipmentriggingareasatthedeparture airfield.
(cid:122) Armycontrolproceduresduringpreparationforloading.
(cid:122) Emergencyprocedures toinclude survival,evasion,resistanceandescape andsearchandrescue
planning.
(cid:122) Weatherconsiderations.
(cid:122) Jointsuppressionofenemyairdefenses,counterair, andairinterdictionconsiderations.
TYPES OF MOVEMENT
6-6. The type of movement administrative or tactical must be considered when determining how to load
the aircraft. Airborne forces can conduct an administrative movement to an intermediate staging base or
remote marshalling base, and then transload into assault aircraft by using tactical loading. They are as
follows:
(cid:122) Administrative movements are non-tactical. Personnel and equipment are arranged to expedite
their movement and to conserve time and energy. Economical use is made of aircraft cabin
space,andplannersmakemaximumuseoftheallowablecabinload(ACL).
(cid:122) Tacticalmovementsarewhenpersonnelandequipmentareorganized,loaded,andtransportedto
accomplishthegroundtactical plan.Theproper useofaircraftACL isimportant,butitdoes not
overridethecommander’ssequenceofemployment.
AIRCRAFT REQUIREMENTS
6-7. When the airborne force deploys, planning guidance from higher headquarters indicates the type of
aircraft available for the movement. Based on this information, the unit commander determines and
requests the number of lifts by the type of aircraft required to complete the move. The air movement
planner must ensure that each aircraft is used to its maximum capability. This is based on the information
developed onunitrequirements, ACLs, and available passenger seats.The methodsof determiningaircraft
requirementsaretheweightmethodandthetype-loadmethod.Theyareasfollows:
(cid:122) Weight method. This method is based on the assumption that total weight, not volume, is the
determining factor. Since aircraft sometimes run out of space before exceeding the ACL, this
method is no longer widely used. It has been replaced by the type-load method. The long
distances involved in reaching an objective area, the necessity of the aircraft to circle for
extendedperiods beforelanding, andthelargeamounts offuelneeded tosustainthe aircraftcan
result in the aircraft having to reduce its ACL. As a rule, the longer the deployment, the lower
theACL. |
3-99 | 109 | Air Movement Plan
(cid:122) Type-load method. In a force air movement, a number of the aircraft loads contain the same
itemsofequipmentand numbersofpersonnel.Identicaltypeloadssimplifytheplanningprocess
and make the tasks of manifesting and rehearsing much easier. Used for calculating individual
aircraftliftrequirements,the type-load methodisthemostcommonand widelyacceptedmethod
of unit air movement planning. It requires consideration of load configuration and condition on
arrival at a desired destination, rapid off-loading, aircraft limitations, security requirements en
route, and the anticipated operational requirements. Use the more detailed type-load method in
planningforcemovements.
SECTION III – LOAD PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS
6-8. When preparing the air movement plan, the S-3 Air considers tactical integrity, cross loading, self-
sufficiencyofeachload,andchance ofexecutingtheair landoption.TheS-3airkeepsunitsintactas much
aspossible. Forairborne operations,this can meanplacing forceslargerthansquadsonseparateaircraftso
theyexittheir respectiveaircraftover the same portionof thedrop zone.Thisfacilitatesrapid assembly by
placingunitsclosetotheirassemblyareasonlanding.
TACTICAL INTEGRITY
6-9. Maintainingtacticalintegrityincludesthefollowingguidance:
(cid:122) The S-3 Air must understand and develop the tactical cross load based on the ground
tacticalplan.
(cid:122) Keyleaderorstaffgroupsarecrossloadedandpositionedwithintheassaultechelontobestcontrol
groundmaneuverandprovideredundancyofmissioncommandfortheairborneoperation.
(cid:122) Fire support teams and their radiotelephone operators should be on the same aircraft with the
commandertheysupport;theyshouldjumptolandnexttohim.
(cid:122) Platoon leaders (and platoon sergeants on different aircraft) should have their forward observers,
radiotelephoneoperators,atleastonemachineguncrew,andoneJavelingunneronthesameaircraft.
(cid:122) Each aircraft has at least one unit non-commissioned officer or commissioned officer for each
unitwithpersonnelonboard.EachaircrafthasArmyleadershippresent.
(cid:122) To ensure tactical integrity, distribute the company commander, unit first sergeant, and
executiveofficerindifferentaircrafts.
CROSS LOADING
6-10. Cross loading distributes leaders, key weapons, and key equipment between the aircraft of the
formation to avoid total loss of mission commandor force effectiveness if an aircraft is lost. Give careful
attentiontocrossloadingduringrapidassembly.
6-11. Separatekeypersonnelincaseanaircraftabortsorfailstoreachthedropzone.Thispreventstheloss
ofmorethanonekeyofficerorNCOofaunit.Properlyplannedcrossloadingaccomplishesthefollowing:
(cid:122) Personnelfromthesameunitlandtogetherinthesamepartofthedropzoneforfasterassembly.
(cid:122) Equipmentor vehicleoperatorsandweaponsystemcrewslandinthesamepartofthedropzone
astheirheavy-dropequipmentsotheycangettoit,derigit,andputitintooperationquickly.
(cid:122) Ifoneormoreaircraftaborteitheronthegroundorenroutetothe dropzone,somekey leaders
andequipmentstillaredelivered.
6-12. When planning airborne force cross loading, remember—the fewer key people on the same aircraft,
thebetter.Ifpossible,separatethefollowingpersonnel:
(cid:122) TheABNIBCTcommanderfromhisexecutiveofficerandbattalioncommanders.
(cid:122) Thebattalioncommanderandhiscompanycommanders.
(cid:122) Thebrigadeexecutiveofficer,andthebrigadeS-3.
(cid:122) Thebattalionexecutiveofficer,andS-3fromthesamebattalion.
(cid:122) TheprimaryABNIBCTandbattalionstaffofficersandtheirassistants.
(cid:122) Thecompanycommander,executiveofficer,andfirstsergeantfromthesamecompany. |
3-99 | 110 | Chapter 6
(cid:122) Theplatoonleaderandplatoonsergeantfromthesameplatoon.
6-13. Alwaysplanforthepossibilitythatoneor moreheavy equipment dropaircraftabortsbeforeitgets
tothedropzoneortheequipmentstreamsinandbecomesunserviceable.Takethefollowingactions:
(cid:122) Crossload heavy-drop equipment to have the least possible impacton the missionif it does not
arrive in the drop zone. Separate critical loads so if an aircraft aborts or fails to reach the drop
zone,nosingleunitlosesmorethanonekeyofficerornon-commissionedofficer or a significant
proportionofthesametypeofcombat-essentialequipment.
(cid:122) Coordinate closely with the Air Force so heavy-drop equipment loads are loaded in the reverse
ordertheyshouldland.
(cid:122) Do not include the same type of critical equipment from the same unit, or like equipment from
different units in the same aircraft loads. This applies whether it is to be airdropped or air-
landed.
(cid:122) Crossloadheavy-dropequipmentinoneofthefollowingways:
Selectheavyequipmentpointsof impacttosupportthegroundtacticalplan.Placeloads so
(cid:132)
theylandclosetothelocationwheretheyareused.
Cross load the parachutists to first support the ground tactical plan; then coordinate their
(cid:132)
landingswiththoseoftheheavy-dropplatforms.
Coordinate the selected heavy equipmentpointofimpact for eachload withthe Air Force
(cid:132)
missioncommander,whenusingmultipleheavyequipmentpointsofimpact.
Donotloadtwoormorelikeplatformsfromthesameuniton thesameaircraftbecausethe
(cid:132)
aircraftaremovingtoofasttodropmorethanoneplatforminthe same area.
(cid:122) Separateradios,mortars,antitankweapons,ammunitionbundles,and othercriticalequipmentor
supplies as much as possible. No like items of combat-essential equipment from the same unit
shouldbeonthesameaircraft.Applythefollowing:
A weaponssystemshouldbeloadedonthesameaircraftasitscrew.
(cid:132)
Note.Onlyonecrew-servedweaponssquad/teamshouldbeoneachaircraft.
A RATELO should jump the same aircraft as the leader he supports, either just before or
(cid:132)
after him. Another good method isfor the leadertojump the radio himself.Inthis way, he
still can set up immediate communications even if he and his RATELO separate on the
dropzone.
Thecontainer,weapon, andindividualequipmentcanandshould bejumped atanyposition
(cid:132)
in the stick to support cross loading and assembly plans. The commander makes a risk
assessment when locating paratroopers in the stick carrying this equipment. Risks to both
the paratrooper and mission accomplishment are present. If the parachutist falls inside the
aircraft, the remainder ofthepersonnelmaynotbeabletoexitonthatpass.Thisequipment
increasestherisksoftheparatrooperbeingtowedoutsidetheaircraft.
Individual crew-served weapons (such as machine guns, mortars, antitank weapons) and
(cid:132)
othercriticalequipmentorsuppliesshouldbedistributedonallaircraft.
Communicationsequipment,ammunition,andothersupplybundlesmustbecrossloaded.
(cid:132)
SELF-SUFFICIENCY
6-14. Each aircraft load should be self-sufficient so its personnel can operate effectively by themselves if
other aircraft misses the drop zone, makes an emergency landing somewhere else, or aborts the mission.
Takethefollowingaction:
(cid:122) A single (complete)weaponssystemshouldhavethe completecrewforthatsystemonthe same
aircraftalongwithenoughammunitiontoplacetheweaponintooperation.
(cid:122) Forairlandorheavyequipmentdropoperations,trailersand weaponsare manifested withtheir
primemovers.
(cid:122) Squadsshouldstaytogetheronthe sameaircraft;fireteams areneversplit. |
3-99 | 111 | Air Movement Plan
(cid:122) Squads andfireteams shouldjumpbothaircraftdoors toreducetheamountofseparationonthe
dropzone.
SECTION IV – LOADING AND DELIVERY OF FORCES
6-15. Theair movement plancontains theinformationrequiredtoensuretheefficientloadinganddelivery
of forces to the objective area in the proper sequence, time, and place to support the ground tactical plan.
The following paragraphs will discuss load planning sequencing, vehicle load planning, air movement
planningworksheet,andaircraftutilization.
LOAD PLANNING SEQUENCE
6-16. Planners can best accomplish the movement of forces by air for an airborne assault by developing
plansinanorderlysequence,suchas—
(cid:122) Preparingvehicleloadcards.
(cid:122) Preparingairmovementplanningworksheetsforeachunit(companythroughbattalion).
(cid:122) Preparing basic planning guides (company and battalion) and forwarding them to higher
headquarters(battalionandABNIBCT).
(cid:122) Establishingprioritiesfor entryinto the objective area byechelon(cid:650)assault, follow-on, and rear.
Unitsestablishpriorities withineachechelon to phase personnel and equipment into subsequent
echelonsifaircraftarenotavailable.
(cid:122) Preparingaforceaircraftutilizationplantodetermineaircraftrequirementsandtypeloads.
(cid:122) Preparingair-loadingtablestofacilitaterapiddeployment.
(cid:122) Complete and print draft load plans through the Integrated Computerized Deployment System
(ICODES)tohelpidentifyissuespriortocompletingactualloadplans.
6-17. Unitsreceivetheirmissionsandreviewpreviousplans.Units—
(cid:122) Amendtheplansbasedonthetaskorganizationdictatedbythegroundtacticalplan.
(cid:122) Allocate available aircraft. If aircraft are not available, they phase low-priority items to the
follow-onorrearechelon.
(cid:122) Prepareair-loadingtablesandmanifests.
(cid:122) Preparetheairmovementtable.
(cid:122) PrepareaDDForm1387-2(SpecialHandlingData/Certification)forhazardousmaterials.
LOAD PLANNING OF VEHICLES
6-18. Base vehicle load plans on standard operating procedures and mission tailoring. Then, update them
accordingtoaircraftavailabilityandtype.
(cid:122) Heavy-drop vehicles are first loaded with as much unit equipment as theycan hold. The
vehicle’s load capacity should not be exceeded, and all cargo must be secured in the vehicle’s
cargocompartment.
(cid:122) Vehicles are measured and weighed after they have been loaded. Some items, especially
ammunition,cannotberigged onthevehicle,butcanbecarriedasballastontheplatform.
(cid:122) Vehicle load cards are made for each vehicle to be loaded aboard an aircraft. Each sketch
includessuchinformationas load data for the vehicle; lengthand widthofthe vehicle whenthe
vehiclecarriescargo;the namesandlocationsofthecargointhevehicle.
AIR MOVEMENT PLANNING WORKSHEET
6-19. Theairmovementplanning worksheetisaconsolidated listofaunit’sequipmentandpersonnel.Itis
notaformalDAform; itisanexample ofalocallymade form.Ifnecessary,usegrid-typepaperinlieuofa
printed form. The worksheet lists all the dimensions and cargo loads of vehicles. It must include all on-
hand equipmentand personnel, and the fullamount authorized bythe unit table ofequipment. Shortitems
still are included as equipment, and personnel shortages can be filled if alerted for deployment. This |
3-99 | 112 | Chapter 6
prevents the need for constant revision of the worksheet. Basic loads of ammunition carried with the unit,
whichmustbepalletizedorplacedindoorbundles,shouldbeincluded.
6-20. The basic planning guide form is a report prepared by ground forces to determine the aircraft
required for an airborne operation. The S-3 Air for the battalion collects the basic planning guide forms
from the subordinate companies and consolidates them at battalion level. He submits them to U.S. Army
riggers,airlift controlelement(ALCE),andthedeparture airfield controlgroup(DACG), dependingonthe
typeofmovementrequired.
UNIT AIRCRAFT UTILIZATION FORM
6-21. The unit aircraft utilization plan identifies equipment by aircraft load; this simplifies planning of
identical types of loads. The goal is to support the ground tactical plan while maximizing efficient use of
USAFassets.Thefirststepistoweighpersonnelandequipmentbyechelon.Then,adduptheaircraftloads
to determine how many aircraft are needed. If too few aircraft are available to meet the planned
echelonment, this becomes readily apparent. At this point, priorities are applied and equipment and
personnelarephasedbacktofitairliftconstraints.
SECTION V – AIRCRAFT LOAD AND AIR MOVEMENT TABLE
6-22. The development of aircraft loads is accomplished through reverse planning. The planner must have
a mosaic or facsimile when developing the heavy equipment point of impact, personnel point of impact,
and personnel manifests. Aircraft loads must support the assembly and ground tactical plans through
effectivecrossloading.Thisincludes—
(cid:122) Preparing the load. Using the mosaic, facsimile, or sketch, preparers mark the desired single or
multiple heavy equipmentpoints ofimpact forall equipment, andthe personnel pointofimpact.
Line off the sketch in 70-meter (75-yard) increments from the personnel point of impact. This
represents the normal one-second parachutist interval. Make the set lines perpendicular to the
line of flight so thatthe name ofthe parachutist associated with a particular piece of equipment
canbemarkedonthesketch.
(cid:122) Planningpurposes. Heavy-drop equipmentlands400 yardsaparton C-130 and C-17.The name
of the parachutist who must obtain his equipment is entered on the line nearest the equipment.
Personnelnotassociated with a particular pieceofequipment can be markedon the linesclosest
to their assembly area. Take the personnel manifest directly off the drop zone schematic, the
resultis a manifestorderthatfacilitatesquickassembly.
(cid:122) Allocating seats. Once the commander has developed the cross-load plan, he notifies involved
units how many and which seats they have on each aircraft. Platoons can be manifested in
multiple aircraft to facilitate cross loading, but personnel are placed in stick order on each
aircrafttoexitandlandinthe same generalareaonthe dropzone.
(cid:122) Makinginternal adjustments. Eachcompanycommander in turncross loadshispartof the split
platoon within his part of the stick to best support the assembly plan and ground tactical plan.
(Seefigure 6-1.)
(cid:122) Preparing the manifest. Manifesting is accomplished in the reverse order of exit. (Refer to
paragraph 6-26ofthispublicationfor moreinformation.) |
3-99 | 113 | Air Movement Plan
Figure 6-1. Cross-loaded aircraft |
3-99 | 114 | Chapter 6
6-23. The air movement table assigns units to serials within the air columns. Locating units in successive
serialsisaccordingto prioritiesestablishedfor landing. Unitsmaintain tacticalintegrityofArmyandairlift
unitsasfar aspracticable. Allelementsin a givenserial land onthe same dropzone orlandingzone inthe
objective area; however, certain aircraft in a serial can continue on to drop reconnaissance and security
forcesintheirplannedareasofemployment.
6-24. The ground forces commander in coordination with the USAF commander prepares the air
movement table form. This form, used in the air movement plan to the airborne operations, allocates
aircraft to the ground forces to be lifted. It designates the number and type of aircraft in each serial and
specifies the departure area and the time of loading and takeoff. Exact format for the air movement table
dependsonthe needsofthe commander, which are specified byunit standard operatingprocedures.There
isnospecificformat,buttheairmovementtableshouldprovidethefollowinginformation:
(cid:122) Heading. When the air movement table is published as a part of the order, the following
elementsareincluded:
Classification.
(cid:132)
Appendix,annexandoperationsordernumber.
(cid:132)
Headquarters.
(cid:132)
Placeofissue.
(cid:132)
Dateandtime.
(cid:132)
Mapreference.
(cid:132)
(cid:122) Serial number. Serial numbers are arranged consecutively in the order of flight. Consider the
followingfactorsintheassignmentofunitstoserials:
Missionoftheairborneforce.
(cid:132)
Sizeofthedropzoneorlandingzone.
(cid:132)
Distribution(crossloading)ofpersonnel,weapons,andequipment.
(cid:132)
(cid:122) Chalk number. The chalk number specifies the position of aircraft being loaded in each serial.
Loadsarenumberedsequentiallyaccordingtoserialnumbering,suchasSerial 1 contains Chalks
1 through12;Serial 2 containsChalks13through24.
(cid:122) USAF units. This section includes USAF information that is important to the ground force
commander.
Airlift unit. This is the designation of the airlift unit that is transporting or furnishing the
(cid:132)
aircraftforeachserial.
Serialcommander.ThisistheseniorUSAFofficerintheserial.
(cid:132)
Number and type ofaircraft. The exactnumber and type of aircraftthat actuallyflyinthe
(cid:132)
serialareshowninthiscolumn.
(cid:122) U.S.Armyforces.Thissectionincludesinformationdirectlyrelatedtothegroundforces.
Aircraftrequired.Thenumberofairplanesrequiredtotransporttheforce.
(cid:132)
Employment. Type of movement (suchasparachute, heavyequipment, container delivery
(cid:132)
system,orair-landed).
Unitloaded.Theairborneforcebeingloaded.
(cid:132)
Serialcommander.Theseniorairborneofficerintheserial.
(cid:132)
Departureairfield.Nameorcodenameofthedepartureairfield.
(cid:132)
Load time. The time established by the airlift and ground force commander to begin
(cid:132)
loading. Parachutists can require 30 to 45 minutes to load, depending on the aircraft and
any accompanying equipment (door bundles, and parachutes for in-flight rigging). Heavy-
dropandcontainerdeliverysystemloadsshouldtakeabouttwohoursforloading.
Station time. The time the passengers, equipment, and crew are loaded and ready for
(cid:132)
takeoff.
Takeoff.Thetimetheaircraftisscheduledtodepartfromthe airfield.
(cid:132)
Aircraftformations.Thetypeformationtheaircraftwillfly.
(cid:132)
Objective.Thenameordesignationofthe dropzone,landingzone,orairfield.
(cid:132) |
3-99 | 115 | Air Movement Plan
Timeovertarget.Timeovertargetisthetimeofarrivalattheobjectivearea.
(cid:132)
Directionofflightovertheobjectivearea.
(cid:132)
(cid:122) Other items. Other items that can be included in the air movement table (at the commander’s
discretion)areasfollows:
Numberofpersonnelbyserial/chalk.
(cid:132)
Initialandfinalmanifestcalltimes.
(cid:132)
Prejumptrainingtimes.
(cid:132)
Typeparachute.
(cid:132)
Weatherdecision.
(cid:132)
Weatherdelay.
(cid:132)
Timeformovementtothedepartureairfield.
(cid:132)
USAFstationtime.
(cid:132)
Remarks.
(cid:132)
SECTION VI – MANIFESTS AND AIR-LOADING PLANNING SYSTEM
6-25. To help maintain order and sequence of delivery of personnel and equipment to the drop zone the
ABNAFC and planning staff use a process of prioritization and accounting for the ABNAF personnel and
equipment.Manifestsandcomputerizedsystemsstreamlinethisprocess.
MANIFESTS
6-26. The flight manifest DD Form 2131 (Passenger Manifest) is an exact record of personnel by name,
rank, Department of Defense (DOD) identification number, and dutyposition in each aircraft. It is a brief
description of the equipment, with the station number, as loaded in the aircraft. Load computations for
personnelandequipmentarelisted.Makeaseparateformforeachaircraft.
6-27. Copiesaremadeforthearrivalanddepartureairfieldcontrolgroup,departureairfieldcontrolofficer,
pilot, and ALCE. The jumpmaster or senior Armyrepresentative on the aircraft retains a copy. The senior
ground forces member or primaryjumpmaster in each aircraft finalizes the form. The USAF authorizes it,
andthegroundforcerepresentativesignsitafterverifyingthepersonnelonthemanifest.
INTEGRATED COMPUTERIZED DEPLOYMENT SYSTEM
6-28. TheIntegrated Computerized DeploymentSystem(ICODES) isa computer-basedautomated system
designedtosimplifytheoutloadplansforcombat forces.
6-29. Files data base. By computerizing the necessary loading characteristics, weight restrictions, and
equipment configurations required to outload the airborne force, this system automatically tells the
commandertheloadconfigurationsandnumberofaircraft requiredtomovea specificforce. Thefiles data
baseincludesthefollowing:
(cid:122) USAF aircraft characteristics. This file includes all data that affect the placement of equipment
on a particular aircraft; it contains data on the C-130, C-17, and C5A/B aircraft, which
appropriatepersonnelupdateaschangesoccur.
(cid:122) Itemsand uniform.Thisfilecontainssize data onalltheequipmentinthe unitthatrequiresfloor
space. Commanders use the data for airland or airdrop. The file contains information about the
aircraft center of balance, the psi of the tires, whether the item requires shoring or not, and
whether the item can be turned or not. The unique feature of this file is that it considers
inseparable items of equipment together (for example, a jeep and trailer or a high mobility
multipurposewheeledvehicle and105-millimeterhowitzer).Thispermitstheprogramtoloadan
itemofequipmentwithitsprimemover.
(cid:122) Force package and options. This file contains 12 force packages and about 1000 modular force
packageoptions.
6-30. Commander input. The automated air load planning system allows commanders to input force
packages,options,items,primemoversandthetowedpiecesofequipment, and multiplesofeach.Oncea |
3-99 | 116 | Chapter 6
force package or option is entered into the program, the force package or option can be changed for the
specificrunoftheprogramtomeetmissionrequirements. |
3-99 | 117 | Chapter 7
Marshalling Plan
After the air movement plan is developed, backbriefed, refined, and approved, the
next plan to be finalized is the marshalling plan. The previous three plans— ground
tactical, landing, and air movement— are used to determine the number of personnel
and vehicles to be stationed at or moved through each airfield. The marshalling plan
provides the necessary information and procedures by which units of the airborne
force complete final preparations for combat, move to departure airfields, and loads
the aircraft. It provides detailed instructions for facilities and services needed during
marshalling. This chapter assists airborne assault force (ABNAF), commanders and
staffsin planningfor marshalling and sustainment.
SECTION I – PREPARATION
7-1. Marshalling is the process by which unitsparticipating inan amphibiousor airborne operation group
together or assemble when feasible or move to temporary camps in the vicinity of embarkation points,
complete preparations for combat, or prepare for loading (JP 3-17). The marshalling plan appears as a tab
to the airborne operations appendix Annex C, Operations. S-4s (in coordination with S-3s), are the
principals to the commanders for marshalling. Marshalling begins when elements of the force are literally
sealed in marshalling areas and it terminates at loading. The marshalling plan is designed to facilitate a
quick, orderly launching of an airborne assault under maximum security conditions in the minimum
possibletime.
7-2. Unitscompletethefollowingpreparationsbeforemarshallingas a minimum:
(cid:122) N-hour sequence. As soon as a force is notified of an airborne operation, it begins the reverse
planning necessary to have the first assault aircraft en route to the objective area at the
predetermined time. The N-hour sequence contains preparation activities, along with planning
actions that must take place within a flexible schedule, ensuring that the force is prepared and
correctlyequippedtoconductcombatoperationsonarrival.
(cid:122) Rehearsals. Rehearsals are conducted at every echelon of command. They identify potential
weaknesses in execution and enhance understanding and synchronization. Full-scale rehearsals
arethegoal,buttimeconstraintsmaylimitthem.
(cid:122) Static load training (SLT). Requires coordination with USAF loadmasters. Scripted event that
trains joint force for daytime and limited visibility aircraft egress and personnel and equipment
on/off-loadprocedures.
(cid:122) Sustained airborne training (SAT). Conducted no more than 24 hours prior to execution of the
airborne assault. Paratroopersreceive SAT fromthe jumpmaster and safety fromthe door from
whichtheywillexit.SATnormallyisconductedduringSLT. (SeeTC 3-21.220.)
(cid:122) Assembly, inspection, and maintenance. As soon as feasible, units assemble the equipment and
supplies that are to accompany them to the objective area. Hold inspections to determine the
status of equipment. Perform maintenance and prepare parachutes, aerial delivery containers,
and heavy equipment drop loads. Commanders and leaders brief personnel, and rations and
ammunitionareissued.Personneleatastimepermits.
(cid:122) Storage of nonessential items. Individual clothing and equipment, and unit equipment not
needed in the objective area are packed in suitable containers and stored with the rear
echelonorreardetachment. |
3-99 | 118 | Chapter 7
Note. At a minimum, marshalling activities include briefing personnel, inspecting,
preparingairdropcontainers,issuingrationsandammunition,andresting.
SECTION II – MOVEMENT
7-3. A marshalling area is a location in the vicinity of a reception terminal or pre-positioned equipment
storage site where arriving unit personnel, equipment, materiel, and accompanying supplies are
reassembled,returned to the controlof the unitcommander, and prepared for onward movement. (Refer to
JP 3-35 for more information.) Unit marshalling areas should be located near departure airfields to limit
movement, higher headquarters can either control the movement to the marshalling area completely, or it
canget a copyofthe marchtableanduseit tocontrolthetrafficoutoftheassemblyarea,alongtherouteof
march,andintothemarshallingarea.Advancepartiesassignpersonneltoareas.
7-4. The S-4 of the unit to be marshaled notifies higher headquarters on the number of organic vehicles
that the unit can give to move its personnel and equipment to the marshallingareas. This information and
the personnel list furnished by the S-3 must be available early enough during planning to procure other
transportationrequiredforthemovement.
7-5. When marshalling areas are on airfields, they are placed temporarily at the disposal of the airborne
force’s higher headquarters. The air base commander’s permission is obtained by the tactical units that
mustconductactivitiesoutsideofthecamparea.
7-6. Parachute issue and rigging may be conducted on the ramp, alongside the aircraft, or in-flight.
Advantagesanddisadvantagesarelistedbelowintable 7-1.
Table 7-1. Parachute issue
Issue/Rig Advantages Disadvantages
RAMP (cid:120) Reducestheparachutesupplyproblem. (cid:120) Parachutistsmayrequiretransportation
(cid:120) Efficientuseofpersonnel. totheaircraft.
(cid:120) Supplyaccountability. (cid:120) Parachutistsarerigged for a greater
period.
PLANE (cid:120) Parachutistsarenotrequiredtowalkwhile (cid:120) Parachutesmustbetransportedtothe
SIDE rigged. aircraft.
(cid:120) Decentralizedexecutionreducesrigging (cid:120) Riggingprocessmayimpedeother
time. activities.
IN-FLIGHT (cid:120) Preventsfatigueduringlongflights. (cid:120) Reducesthenumberofparachutiststhat
(cid:120) Providesmoretimeforrehearsalsand anaircraftcancarry.
inspections. (cid:120) Requiresloadingofparachutesonthe
aircraft.
SECTION III – PROTECTION
7-7. Protection tasks and systems preserve the force so the commander can apply maximum combat
power to accomplishthe mission.Preservingthe force includesprotectingpersonneland physicalassetsof
theU.S.,host-nation,andmultinationalmilitaryandcivilianpartners.
7-8. The marshalling area should be surrounded bysecurity fencing or, at least, triple-strand concertina. It
should have a postedsecurityarea outside theperimeter that isatleast50meterswideandcleared ofbrush
andtrees.Ifavailable,uselightstoilluminatethesecurityarea.Gatestothecampshouldbetwo laneswide
toaccommodateheavytraffic.
PASSIVE DEFENSE MEASURES
7-9. Uncommitted airborne forces pose a strategic or operational threatto the enemy. Avoid concentrating
forces during marshalling to keep impending operations secret and to deny lucrative targets to the enemy.
Dispersalmethodsincludethefollowing: |
3-99 | 119 | Marshalling Plan
(cid:122) Move. Units move rapidly under cover of darkness to dispersed marshalling areas near air
facilities.
(cid:122) Control. Commanders control movement to loading sites so most personnel arrive after the
equipmentandsuppliesareloadedontheaircraft.
(cid:122) Prepare.Commandersprepareforloadingbeforearrivalattheloadingsite.
(cid:122) Avoid.Commandersavoidassemblingmorethan50percentofanABNIBCTat a singlepoint.
DISPERSAL
7-10. The degree of dispersal is based on an intimate knowledge of the operation’s problems and what is
best for the overall operation. Regardless of the dispersed loading method, the airlift commander ensures
thataircraftarriveovertheobjectiveareaintheorderrequiredbytheairmovementplan.Dependingonthe
situation,oneofthefollowingmethodsisused:
(cid:122) Movement to departure air facilities. Move airborne forces and equipment to departure air
facilitieswhereairliftaircraftmaybedispersed.
(cid:122) Movement to intermediate stagingbase. Before the mission,airliftaircraftflyto an intermediate
staging base to pick up airborne forces and equipment. Airlift airborne forces and equipment to
disperseddepartureairfields;themissionoriginatesfromthesefacilities.
(cid:122) Combining methods. Airlift aircraft fly to intermediate staging bases for the equipment before
the mission. The equipment is airlifted to the dispersed departure airfields and the mission
originates from these facilities, or airlift aircraft stop en route at intermediate staging bases to
pick up personnel. Crews load aircraft quickly, so the fewest possible aircraft are at the
intermediatestagingbaseatonetime.
SECTION IV – DEPARTURE AIRFIELD-MARSHALLING AREA
7-11. Basethedepartureairfield selectionontheproposedairmovementand the capabilityofairfieldsto
handlethetraffic.Designateloadingsitesneardepartureairfieldsafterselectingdepartureairfields.
SELECTING DEPARTURE AIRFIELDS
7-12. For aspecificsituationoroperation,oneora combinationofthefollowingfactorscandeterminethe
selection:
(cid:122) Mission.
(cid:122) Airfields(numberrequired,location,andtype).
(cid:122) Runwaylengthandweight-bearingcapacity.
(cid:122) Communicationsfacilities.
(cid:122) Navigationalaidsandairfieldlighting.
(cid:122) Locatingparticipatingunitsandmarshallingareas.
(cid:122) Radiusofactionrequired.
(cid:122) Vulnerabilitytoenemyactiontoincludechemical,biological,radiological,andnuclear.
(cid:122) Otherairsupportavailableorrequired.
(cid:122) Logisticalsupportavailable,required,orboth.
(cid:122) Facilitiesforreceptionofpersonnelandcargo.
(cid:122) Facilitiesforloadingandunloadingofpersonnelandcargo.
(cid:122) Facilitiesfordispatchofpersonnelandcargo.
(cid:122) Facilitiestosupportriggingandstorageofheavy-dropplatforms.
Note. While dispersionisnecessaryto avoid vulnerabilityto enemyaction, excessive dispersion
increasescontrolproblems andcandiminishtheeffectivenessofothersupportingground andair
operations. |
3-99 | 120 | Chapter 7
SELECTING AND OPERATING MARSHALLING AREAS
7-13. The marshalling area is a sealed area with facilities for the final preparation of paratroopers for
combat. Commanders select marshalling areas based on the air movement plan and other considerations.
Another way to avoid concentration of personnel is to time-phase the movement of personnel from their
home bases through the marshalling area to the departure airfield, minimizing the buildup of forces. After
choosingthemarshallingareasanddepartureairfields,chooseloadingsitesneartheairfields.
7-14. Thefollowingfactorsareconsideredwhenselectingmarshallingareas:
(cid:122) Distancetoairfield(s).
(cid:122) Timeavailable.
(cid:122) Currentfacilities.
(cid:122) Availabilityofpersonnelandmaterialsforconstruction.
(cid:122) Availabilityoraccessofmaneuverandtrainingareas.
(cid:122) Communicationsrequirements.
(cid:122) Briefingfacilities.
(cid:122) Locatingparticipatingunits.
(cid:122) Securityorvulnerabilitytoenemyaction.
(cid:122) Logisticalsupportavailableorrequired.
7-15. Inthemarshallingplan,the S-4 (incoordinationwiththe S-3),assignsunitstomarshallingareasnear
the departure airfields the units will use. Make every effort to locate the areas as close as possible to
departureairfieldstoreducemovementtimebetweenthemandtoreducerequirementforvehicles.
7-16. The ABNAF’s higher commander is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the
marshallingareas.Heincludesthefollowing:
(cid:122) Provide operating detachments and necessaryequipment for each area. These detachments give
signalcommunications,transportation, medical,andpostalservices.Theyoperate messfacilities
andutilities.
(cid:122) Marshalpersonnel fromthe unitsorfromfollow-onunitsof the ABNAFcanassist inoperating
the marshalling areas if it does not interfere with their preparations for the airborne operation.
Do not use equipment from these units because it must be packed and loaded for movement to
theobjectivearea.
(cid:122) Maintainsmalls stocksofsuppliesand equipmentof all servicesat each marshallingarea to fill
last-minute shortages of the units being marshaled. Furnish services maintenance support as
required.
Note. The number ofpersonnelrequired to supportoperationand maintenance of marshallingareas varies.
Based on experience, about 10 percent of the number of personnel being marshaled is required for
supportingservices.
FACILITY REQUIREMENTS
7-17. Commanderscanusethisinformationas a guide to selectingandmodifyingfacilities forABN IBCT
use.Figure 7-1 shows a typicalmarshallingarealayoutforanABNIBCT-sizeunitthatneedsabout100acres. |
3-99 | 121 | Marshalling Plan
Figure 7-1. Airborne task force marshalling area
7-18. Taskforcefacility.TheABNIBCTorbattalion(task-organizedfor themission), and themarshalling
areacontrolgroupoccupyanABNTFfacility.Ifnofacilitiesexist,supportelementsmustconstructthefacilities.
7-19. Facility specifications. The ABNTF facility should be near a departure airfield and large enough to
support the ABN IBCT or battalion (as specified), its attachments, supporting personnel, and the
marshallingarea controlgroup that supportsthe marshallingrequirementsof the ABNIBCT.Eachfacility
hasasiteforriggingtheheavy-dropandpalletedequipmentforairdelivery(airdropandairland).
7-20. Facility security. The facility should be surrounded by security fencing or, at least, triple-strand
concertina. It should have a posted security area outside the perimeter that is at least 50 meters wide and
cleared of brush and trees. If available, use lights to illuminate the security area. Gates should be well
lightedintothefacilityandhavetwolanestoaccommodateheavytraffic.
7-21. Quarters, unit headquarters, dining areas, supply rooms, and latrines should be constructed and
allocatedtomaintainunitintegrity. |
3-99 | 122 | Chapter 7
(cid:122) Bivouac site. If billets are not available, a bivouac site can be prepared with tents laid out in
companystreets.
(cid:122) Diningfacilities. Determiningfacilitysizerequirementtoadequatelyfeedforce.
(cid:122) Latrineareas.Thereshouldbeenoughlatrinesto serveatleast four percentofthe male Soldiers
andsixpercentofthe expectedfemaleSoldiers.Build latrinesatleast100yardsdownwindfrom
food service facilities to prevent food and water contamination. Theyneed to be 30 yards from
theendoftheunitarea,butwithin a reasonabledistanceforeasyaccess.
(cid:122) Shower facilities. Enough shower facilities should be provided to support the size force in the
marshallingarea.
7-22. The airborne force requires facilities for rigging heavy equipment drops and container delivery
system platformloads. Althoughequipmentcanberiggedoutdoors,itshould beriggedin a large building,
suchas a hangar, whereitisprotectedfromweather.Thefollowingfacilitiesareneededtooutload:
(cid:122) Loading area control center. The loading area control center (LACC) is provided for preparing
vehiclesforheavy-drop,orairland.Itshouldhave a 10-foot by20-footareafor each vehicleand
a20-foot-wideareabetweenrows for maintenance. A largeareamustbeprovided oneitherside
of the LACC for maneuverability within the LACC for maintenance or other vehicles. (See
figure 7-2.)
Figure 7-2. Heavy-drop loading area control center
(cid:122) Rigging sites. The rigging site accommodates the rigging and outloading of about 50 platforms
ina24-hourperiod,dependingonthe availabilityoftrained personnel,equipment,and supplies.
The rigging site uses an assembly line rigging method. Riggers can operate as many lanes as
requiredwithaugmentationandasavailablespaceallows.(Seefigure 7-3.) |
3-99 | 123 | Marshalling Plan
Figure 7-3. Heavy-drop rigging site
MARSHALLED UNIT AND SUPPORT ORGANIZATION ACTIVITIES
7-23. Marshalling is comprised of four activities: assemble personnel and cargo; conduct unit inspection,
loadequipment,and prepare; sequence loads;and establishsupportorganization atthe portofdebarkation.
Marshalledunitandsupportorganizationactivitiesalthoughnotinclusiveareaddressedinthefollowingparagraphs.
MARSHALLEDUNIT
7-24. Prior to marshalling, if possible the marshalled unit advises the marshalling area control group,
through a liaison officer or by personal contact, of the requirements for the deploying unit at the
marshalling area. The marshalling area control group is the provisional unit, made up of nonorganic and |
3-99 | 124 | Chapter 7
certain organic units not participating in the airborne assault, organized to support the deploying unit.
Duringmarshallingcoordinatingstaffsofthemarshalledunitperformspecificdutiesasfollows:
(cid:122) The S-1 provides human resources support including requisitions replacements, requests
recreationalfacilities,legalservices,andcoordinatesmedicalsupport.
(cid:122) The S-2 is responsible for intelligence readiness to include support to security programs,
counterintelligence,anddeceptionmeasurestoensuresecrecy.
(cid:122) The S-3 submits personnel rosters, and outlines training, briefing, movement, and rehearsal
requirementsandtracksandsubmitsrequiredoperationalreports.
(cid:122) The S-4 continues to refine the deploying unit’s requirements for supply, maintenance,
transportation,andstoragefacilities.
(cid:122) The S-6 determines communications systems requirements, establishes network and
electromagneticspectrumoperations,networkdefense,andinformationprotection.
(cid:122) The S-9 integrates civil affairs operations, gaining efficiencies presenting coordinated and
deconflictedactivitiesduringmarshalling.
(cid:122) The staff makes requirementsknown as far aspossible inadvance ofthe marshallingperiod to
enablesupportpersonneltoprocurethefacilitiesand installthemwherenecessary.
7-25. Marshalled unit, in accordance with an unit standard operating procedure mayestablish a departure
airfieldcontrolofficer,(commonlyreferredtoas the DACO), whowillactasthe ABNIBCT commander’s
principalrepresentative for allactivitiesconducted atthe departure airfield. He mayact as a liaisonofficer
between the marshaled unit and the marshalling area control group or departure airfield control group,
discussed later in this section. The departure airfield control officer also may control a departure airfield
control team designated to perform duties as prescribed in an airborne standard operating procedures
document.(Refertounitstandardoperatingproceduresdocumentforspecificinstructions.)
SUPPORTORGANIZATIONS
7-26. WhentheABNIBCTdeploysandthemarshalling areas close,thedivisionsupportcommandacts as
the provisional logistical unit at the home station. The theater commander responsible for the area of
operationprovides theprovisional logisticalsupportunit forthe intermediate stagingbase. If a supportunit
cannot preposition at the intermediate staging base, a support unit from the home station command is
included intheadvanceparty. Marshallingcontrolagencies assist theairborneandairliftforcein executing
theoperation.
7-27. Marshallingarea controlgroup.To enable mostofthe airborne forceto concentrate onpreparingfor
planned operations, support agencies are designated by division headquarters to provide most of the
administrative and logistical support. As stated earlier these nonorganic units and certain organic units not
participatingintheairborne assaultorganizedintoa provisionalunitknown asthe marshallingareacontrol
group.The marshallingareacontrolgroup,commanderistheprincipallogisticaloperatorforthedeploying
force; he executes the logistical plan. This control group provides services until the assault force departs
andthemarshallingareaisclosed.Typicalassistanceprovidedbythisunitincludes(cid:650)
(cid:122) Transportation.
(cid:122) Movementcontrol.
(cid:122) Allclassesofsupply.
(cid:122) Communications.
(cid:122) Facilityconstruction,operation,andmaintenance.
(cid:122) Maintenance.
(cid:122) Rigging.
(cid:122) Recreationandothermoraleservices.
(cid:122) Localsecuritypersonnel,whenrequired.
(cid:122) Armyhealthsystemsupport.
7-28. Airlift control element (ALCE). The ALCE coordinates and maintains operational control of all
airlift aircraft while they are on the ground at the designated airfield. This includes aircraft and load-
movement control and reporting, communications, loading and off-loading teams, aeromedical activities, |
3-99 | 125 | Marshalling Plan
and coordination with interested agencies, The ALCE’s support function includes activities that relate to
theairfield.TypicaltasksforthisUSAFunitinclude—
(cid:122) On bothplanned and rapid notice, support and control exercises and contingency operations, as
defined in air mobility, and deployment and redeployment operations manuals and mission
directives.
(cid:122) Conductaround-the-clockoperationstoprovidesupervisorycontroland toensureeffective use
oftheairliftforceonassignedmissions.
(cid:122) Direct,execute,andcoordinatemissiondirectives,plans,andorders assigned.
(cid:122) Distributecompletedloadingmanifestsasrequired.
(cid:122) Givecopiesoftheaircraft-parkingplantosupportunits.
(cid:122) Coordinateloadingofaircraft.
(cid:122) CoordinatedispositionofArmyequipmentandpersonnelremainingbehindorreturningbecause
ofabortedsorties.
(cid:122) EnsurethatappropriateandadequatebriefingsforArmyandUSAFpersonnelareconducted.
(cid:122) Coordinateflightclearances.
(cid:122) Coordinateconfigurationofaircraft.
(cid:122) Scheduleandcoordinateproperairforcecoverageofassaultlandingzones,anddropzones.
(cid:122) Scheduleandpublishairmovementtablesforsupportedunits.
(cid:122) Provideorarrangeweathersupportforthemission.
7-29. Departureairfield controlgroup (DACG). TheDACGensuresthatArmyunitsand theirsuppliesand
equipmentare moved fromthe marshallingarea and loadedaccordingto the air movementplan. Timingis
critical at this point in the operation. Maintain strict control of both air and ground traffic on and across
activerunways.
7-30. Arrival airfield control group (AACG). Organizing the AACG is similar to the DACG. When
personnel,supplies,andequipmentarearrivingonaircraftandneedtobemoved tomarshallingfacilitiesor
holding areas, the AACG is responsible for offloading them. Like the DACG, the AACG works closely
withtheALCE unitatthearrivalairfield.
SECTION V – OUTLOAD
7-31. Complex outload operations are more difficult because they usually are conducted at night under
blackout conditions. Since most or all airborne units’ vehicles are rigged for air delivery, airborne forces
mustrelyonthesupportingunitfor transportationduringoutload.Theserequirementsarecloselyrelatedto
anddictatedbytheloadingplansdevelopedfortheoperation.
OUTLOAD PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS
7-32. Loading preparations are included in the marshalling plan. Loading plans outline the moving
personnel and equipment and heavy-drop loads from the alert holding area to planeside. They outline the
use of available materials-handling equipment. The loading plans are coordinated closely with the
supportingairliftforce.
7-33. A loading plan is formulated at joint conferences. It contains information about the number of
personnelandtheamountofequipmenttobeairlifted,ACLs,andthegeneralsequenceofmovement.
7-34. Strict adherence to the loadingtimetable is mandatory. The loading of equipment and supplies must
becompletedintimetopermitpost-loadinginspection,jointpre-takeoffbriefing,andpersonnelloadingby
thedesignatedstationtime.
7-35. The general delineations of loading responsibilities in connection with the airborne operation are as
follows:
(cid:122) Airliftcommanderresponsibilitiesinclude—
Develops plans for specific loads and the sequence of movement in conjunction with the
(cid:132)
unitbeingmoved. |
3-99 | 126 | Chapter 7
Establishesanddisseminatesmanifestingallcargoandpersonnel.
(cid:132)
Provides instructions for loading, instructions for documenting and unloading aircraft and
(cid:132)
forcargotie-down.
Parksaircraftaccordingtotheparkingplan.
(cid:132)
Provides loading ramps, floor conveyors, tie-downs, load spreaders, and other auxiliary
(cid:132)
equipmentsuchasoperationejectionequipment.
Prepares aircraft for ejecting cargo and for the safe exit of paratroopers from aircraft in
(cid:132)
flight.CargotobeejectedinflightistieddownbyUSAFpersonnel.
Ensures that a USAF representative is present to provide technical assistance and to
(cid:132)
supervisetheloadingunitduringtheloadingoperationsofeachaircraft.
Verifiesdocumentationofpersonnelandequipment.
(cid:132)
Furnishes and operates materials-handling equipment required in aircraft loading and
(cid:132)
unloadingiftheU.S. Armyunitneedsit.
(cid:122) Airbornecommanderresponsibilitiesinclude—
Establishes the priority and sequence for movement of airborne personnel, equipment, and
(cid:132)
supplies.
Preparescargoforairdrop,airland,orextractionaccordingtoapplicablesafetyinstructions.
(cid:132)
Marks each item of equipment to show its weight and cubage and, when appropriate, to
(cid:132)
show the center of gravity. Ensures hazardous cargo is properly annotated on DD Form
1387-2.
DocumentsandmanifestsallloadsofU.S.Armypersonnel.
(cid:132)
Directs and monitors both movement of ground traffic to airfield or loading area, and
(cid:132)
acceptsdeliveryatthedestination.
Delivers properly rigged supplies and equipment to the aircraft according to the loading
(cid:132)
plan.
Loads, ties down, and unloads accompanying supplies and equipment into and from the
(cid:132)
aircraft withtechnical assistance from a USAF representative. Cargo to be ejected inflight
is tied down and ejected by USAF personnel. (Exception is made in the case of containers
ofsuppliesand equipment thatarepushedfromthejumpexitsbyparatroopersimmediately
beforetheirexitfromtheaircraft.)
Ensures that U.S. Army personnel are seated aboard aircraft, are properly equipped, and
(cid:132)
havetheirsafetybeltsfastenedbystationtime.
Briefs and supervises U.S. Army vehicle operators to ensure that the operators thoroughly
(cid:132)
comprehend airfield vehicular traffic control measures and pertinent safety precautions
beforetheyoperatevehiclesaroundaircraft.
Provides vehicles and loading personnel to outload U.S. Army personnel and cargo from
(cid:132)
abortingaircraftandreloadthemonspareaircraftiftimepermits.
OUTLOAD CONTROL
7-36. A control system at arrival airfields is essential to prevent congestion and to facilitate orderly
movement of cargo and personnel. Outload control includes parking, traffic control, loading, bump plan,
andunloading.
PARKING
7-37. The mainparkingconsiderationisloadingaccess. Dispersal must provide the mostsecuritypossible
withtheleastpossiblevulnerabilityand,atthesametime,allowmaneuveringroomforloadingtheequipment.
CONTROLLINGTRAFFIC
7-38. A trafficcontrolsystemisessentialtoavoid congestionatloadingand unloadingsites.Inoutloading,
force control is accomplished by using a call-forward system in which loads are brought into the loading
area as required. The following control system outline applies to air landing facilities as well as airfields.
(Seefigure 7-4.)Thesystemprovides a separateloadingfacilityforpersonnel,heavy-droploads,andaerial |
3-99 | 127 | Marshalling Plan
supply. The separation is essential to control loading and decrease the time required to load. The airfield
control system is set up with the minimum required personnel and communications equipment, and with
regardtothesizeofthe forcesbeingmoved.
Figure 7-4. Concept of outload control
LOADING
7-39. Theactualoutloadiscomplexandrequiresclose supervisiontoensureallequipmentandpersonnel
areloadedonthecorrectaircraftasquicklyandefficientlyaspossible.
(cid:122) Initially, personnel and equipment are dispersed in marshalling areas distant from the loading
airfields,butinclosecommunicationwithcontrolgroupsattheairfields.
(cid:122) When called, the unit or equipment is moved byplaneload to the call-forward area. The fewest
possible planeloads are maintained on hand in the call-forward area to ensure uninterrupted
loading.Useguidesandmilitarypoliceasrequired.
(cid:122) As aircraft arrive in the loading area, planeloads are called forward; unit members load and tie
equipmentdownwiththetechnicalassistanceofUSAFpersonnel.
(cid:122) Control personnel maintain a log listing the departure of each aircraft. It contains the following
information:
Aircrafttailnumber.
(cid:132)
Summaryofloadorunitloadnumber.(Correlatemanifestswiththisentry.)
(cid:132)
Timeaircraftwasavailableforloading.
(cid:132)
Stationtime.
(cid:132)
Takeofftime.
(cid:132) |
3-99 | 128 | Chapter 7
Remarks.
(cid:132)
BUMPPLAN
7-40. A bump plan is used to ensure that critical personnel and equipment are delivered to the airhead in
the assault in the event of last-minute aircraft maintenance problems or the planned number of aircraft is
notavailable.Whendesigning theplan,considercommunicationsrequirements,thetimerequired/available
to execute the bump plan, and ensure secure en route communications package and tactical satellite
(TACSAT) supports the physical location of key personnel (i.e. commander on right door, TACSAT on
rightdoor). A simpleplanalwaysworksbetterundertimeconstraints.
7-41. The bump plan must be coordinated through the ground liaison officer. State bump plan by priority
and sequence, the time required to execute the plan, and number of personnel to be bumped. Units must
keep in mind, the bump plan should account for the location of key personnel and communications
requirements(TACSAThatchmountsforexample).
7-42. The outload brief is coordinated and facilitated by the G-3 of the higher headquarters. This is a
working briefing and is the final coordination opportunity for all involved in the airborne operation. The
outload coordination brief sheet is filled out during the outload brief. Special attention should be given to
chalk number and formation, keypersonnel, key heavydrop, hot loads, air land loads, bump plan, number
ofpersonnelandtimeline.
7-43. All paratroopers will be marked in accordance with unit marking standard operating procedures.
These markings must be strictly adhered to for both day and night jumps so that jumpmasters and key
leaders can recognize the tactical cross load within a chalk, implement timely bump plans, or reorganize
jumpers at the last minute to adhere to a cross load, and assemble quickly. At a minimum a bump plan
shouldinclude:
(cid:122) Identification and location of key personnel and communications and mission essential
equipment(inaccordancewiththemission).
(cid:122) Prioritizationandsequence.
(cid:122) Actionstobetakentobumpnon-essentialpersonnel.
(cid:122) Timerequiredandavailabletoexecutethebumpplan.
(cid:122) Locationofkeypersonneldownthroughtaskforcelevel.
UNLOADING
7-44. At arrival airfields, the control system is the reverse of that used at departure airfields. On arrival,
crews unload aircraft and move the loads to dispersed holding areas where arriving elements build up to
convenientsizeforfurthermovements.Crews keeploadcategoriesseparatedtofacilitatecontrolandmovement. |
3-99 | 129 | PART II
Air Assault Operations
Chapter 8
Organization and Employment
An air assault operation isan operation in which assault forces,using the mobility of
rotary-wing assets and the total integration of available firepower, maneuver under
the control of a ground or air maneuver commander to engage enemy forces or to
seize and hold key terrain (JP 3-18). An air assault is a vertical envelopment
conducted to gain a positional advantage, envelop or turn enemy forces that may or
may not be in a position to oppose the operation. Ideally, the commander seeks to
surprise the enemy and achieve an unopposed landing when conducting a vertical
envelopment. However, the assault force must prepare for the presence of opposition.
At the tactical level, vertical envelopments emphasize seizing terrain, destroying
specificenemy forces, andinterdictingenemywithdrawalroutes.
SECTION I – AIR ASSAULT AND AIR MOVEMENTS
8-1. Air assaults are not merely movements of Soldiers, weapons, and equipment by Army aviation units
and should not be considered as such. An air assault is not synonymous with an air movement. They are
separateanddistinctmissions.
8-2. An air assault is the movement of friendly assault forces by rotary-wing aircraft to engage and
destroy enemy forces or to seize and hold key terrain (JP 3-18). It is a precisely planned and vigorously
executed combat operation. An air assault allows friendly forces to strike over extended distances and
terrain barriers to attack the enemy when and where it is most vulnerable. Commanders and leaders must
developaninsightintotheprinciplesgoverningtheirorganizationand employmenttotakeadvantageofthe
opportunitiesofferedbyanairassault.
8-3. Air movement is air transport of units, personnel, supplies, and equipment including airdrops and air
landings (JP 3-17). Army air movements are operations involving the use of utility and cargo rotary-wing
aircraftand operationalsupportfixed-wingassets for other thanair assaults. Air movementsare conducted
to move Soldiers and equipment; emplace systems; and transport ammunition, fuel, and other high-value
supplies. The same general considerations that apply to air assaults apply to air movements. (Refer to
FM 3-04.113formoreinformation.)
SECTION II – AIR ASSAULT TASK FORCE
8-4. Air assaults are accomplished by forming and employing an air assault task force (AATF). The
AATF is a temporary group of integrated forces tailored to a specific mission under the command of a
single headquarters. It may include some or all elements of the BCT. The ground or air maneuver
commander,designatedastheAATFC,commandstheAATF. |
3-99 | 130 | Chapter 8
ORGANIZING FORCES
8-5. The division is the lowest echelon capable of resourcing an air assault, a combat battalion or task
force is the lowest echelon with a staff to properly plan an air assault, and the company is the lowest
echelon with a headquarters to execute an air assault. Once the commander determines the principal
components ofthe groundtactical plan andthe maneuverandfiresupport schemes,the AATF organizesto
executeitsassigned mission.(RefertoFM 3-94formoreinformation.)
8-6. BCTs, combat battalions or task forces, and aviation elements from a combat aviation brigade are
ideally suited to form powerful and flexible AATFs that can project combat power throughout an area of
operationwithlittle regard for terrainbarriers.The uniqueversatilityand strengthof an AATFisachieved
bycombiningthe speed,agility, andfirepowerofrotary-wingaircraft withthose of the maneuver forces in
theBCTs.
BRIGADE COMBAT TEAMS
8-7. All BCTs, whether Infantry, Stryker, or Armored have the capabilityto plan, prepare, and execute air
assault operations when the situation dictates. BCTs have maneuver, field artillery, reconnaissance and
surveillance, sustainment, militaryintelligence, signal, and engineer capabilities that allowfor the effective
executionofairassaultoperations.
8-8. Although Stryker brigade combat teams (SBCTs) and Armored brigade combat teams (ABCTs) may
not conduct air assaults as frequently as IBCTs, such operations conducted on a limited scale may be the
decisive maneuver in an SBCT or ABCT operation. For this reason, all BCTs should be proficient in
conducting air assaults. Examples of air assault operations conducted by SBCTs and ABCTs include
seizing and retaining river-crossing sites, deliberate breach sites, and key terrain. Understanding the
detailedplanningandpreparationthatgoesintoanairassaultenablestheSBCTorABCTto—
(cid:122) Exploit the mobility and speed of task-organized or supporting helicopters to secure a key
objectiveintheoffense.
(cid:122) Reinforce a threatenedunitinthedefense.
(cid:122) Placecombatpowerat a decisivepointinan areaofoperation.
8-9. Due to the abundance and unrestricted use of all forms of improvised explosive devices and the
threat of ground attack, it is common for aviation, engineer, and field artillery units to conduct air assault
operations alongsideor air movementoperations separate fromtheir Infantrycounterparts.Ground tactical
movementsubjectstheentireorganizationtothe threatofimprovisedexplosivedevicesorground attackas
soonasthevehiclesleavetheirassemblyareasorbase.
COMBAT AVIATION BRIGADES
8-10. Most of the Army’s aviation combat power resides in combat aviation brigades, which can be task-
organized based on the mission. (See table 8-1, page 8-3, and table 8-2, page 8-4.) These combat aviation
brigades include various types of organizations with manned and unmanned systems and specialize in
providingcombatcapabilitiestomultipleBCTs.
8-11. In a BCT-sized airassault,thecombataviationbrigade typicallytask-organizesbasedonthe mission
variables of METT-TCto formanaviation taskforce. Additionalaviation companies, platoons, or sections
may be task-organized to include attack reconnaissance (manned and unmanned), mission command,
communications relay, air medical evacuation, and air traffic services. In BCT-sized air assaults,
reinforcement with additional aviation is a common way to mass combat power and accelerate force
buildup.Othercombinedarms forces,toincludeInfantry,fieldartillery,orengineer, andsustainmentunits,
maybepartofthecombataviationbrigadetaskorganizationforspecificmissions.
8-12. Theaviationtaskforce employs a mixofattackreconnaissanceaircrafttosupportanairassault,Teamsof
mixed attack and reconnaissance aircraft, commonly referred to as attack weapons teams and scout weapons
teams,are organized and employed based onMETT-TC. An attack weaponsteamiscomposed of two AH-64
attack helicopters. A scout weapons team is composed of two OH-58D scout helicopters. Planning
considerationsforthetwoairframesinclude: |
3-99 | 131 | Organization and Employment
(cid:122) The AH-64 offers longer range, increased station time, and a larger weapons load, but has a
largersignature.
(cid:122) The OH-58D has a shorter range, decreased stationtime, and a lighter weaponsload, buthas a
smallersignature.
(cid:122) Both airframes have a mix of sighting systems and optics capable of employment in various
environmentalandweatherconditions.
(cid:122) Forwardarmingandrefuelingpointassetsareposturedandconfiguredbasedonairframetype.
Table 8-1. Heavy Combat Aviation Brigade organization |
3-99 | 132 | Chapter 8
Table 8-2. Medium Combat Aviation Brigade organization
SECTION III – TASK FORCE CONSIDERATIONS
8-13. WhenforminganAATF,considerthefollowingfactors:
(cid:122) Earlyformationofthe AATF. This forceis formedearlyintheplanning stageby a headquarters
that can allocate dedicated aviation resources. The directing or establishing headquarters
allocates units and defines authority and responsibility by designating command and support
relationships. Predesignated and well-understood command and support relationships ensure the
AATFfightsas a cohesive,coordinated,combinedarmsteam.
(cid:122) Availability of aviation assets. The warning order (WARNORD) may include task-organizing
the AATF, which must provide a mission-specific balance of mobility and combat power. The
AATFnormallyisorganized withsufficientcombatpower to seize initialobjectivesand protect
landing zones. The required combat power should be delivered to the objective area consistent
withaircraftandpickupzonecapacitiestotakeadvantageofsurpriseand shockeffect.
(cid:122) Maintaining unit tactical integrity. When planning loads, squads normally are loaded intact on
the same helicopter, with platoons located in the same serial, to ensure unit integrity upon
landing. Toperformitsmission, anAATF mustarrive intactatthelandingzone. Theforcemust
be tailored to provide en route security and protection from the pickup zone, throughout the
entireairroute,andatthelandingzone.
(cid:122) Sufficient sustainment capability. The AATF is organized with a sustainment capability to
support a rapid tempo until follow-on or linkup forces arrive, or until the mission is completed.
Unitsthatsupporttheair assaultoperationnormallyareplaced indirectsupportto theAATFto
ensureclose coordinationandcontinuous,dedicatedsupportthroughout anoperation.Normally, |
3-99 | 133 | Organization and Employment
an AATF exists only until completing a specified mission. After that, aviation and other
elementsreturntothecontroloftheirparentunits.
SECTION IV – CAPABILITIES, LIMITATIONS, VULNERABILITIES
8-14. Gaining the initiative and setting the conditions requires commanders to know the capabilities,
limitations and vulnerabilities of their force. The flexibility of conducting air assault operations allows a
commander to control the tempo and exploit the initiative. A properly planned and executed air assault
operationgeneratescombatpower.
8-15. An air assault force is a force composed primarily of ground and rotary-wing air units organized,
equipped, andtrained forair assault operations(JP 3-18). Airassaultforcesare most effective insituations
where the threat of speed from mobility provides surprise and affords seizure of key terrain. Air assault
forcesarebestsuitedformissionsthatrequire—
(cid:122) Massingorshiftingcombatpowerquickly.
(cid:122) Surprise.
(cid:122) Flexibility,mobility,andspeed.
(cid:122) Gainingandmaintainingtheinitiative.
8-16. Considerationsforconductingairassaultoperationsareasfollows:
(cid:122) Best conducted at night or during weather conditions that allowaircraft operation but obscure
enemyobservationtofacilitatedeceptionandsurprise.
(cid:122) Closeairsupportplanningmustprovidesuppressionofthreatsenroutetoandthevicinityofthe
verticalenvelopmentpoint.
(cid:122) Asearlyaspossible,groundandairreconnaissanceshouldbeconductedatlandingzones.
CAPABILITIES
8-17. An AATF can extend the battlefield, move, and rapidly concentrate combat power like no other
availableforces.AATFcapabilitiesareasfollows:
(cid:122) Attackenemypositionsfromanydirection.
(cid:122) Conductattacksandraidswithintheoperationalarea.
(cid:122) Conductexploitationandpursuitoperations.
(cid:122) Overflyand bypass enemy positions, barriers, and obstacles and strike objectives in otherwise
inaccessibleareas.
(cid:122) Provide responsive reserves, allowing commanders to commit a larger portion of his force to
action.
(cid:122) Reactrapidlytotacticalopportunities,necessities,andthreatsinunassignedareas.
(cid:122) Rapidlyplaceforcesattacticallydecisivepointsinthe areaofoperation.
(cid:122) Conductfast-pacedoperationsoverextendeddistances.
(cid:122) Conductandsupportdeceptionwithfalseinsertions.
(cid:122) Rapidlyreinforcecommittedunits.
(cid:122) Rapidlysecureand defendkeyterrain(suchascrossingsites,roadjunctions,andbridges)orkey
objectives.
(cid:122) Delayamuchlargerforcewithoutbecomingdecisivelyengaged.
LIMITATIONS
8-18. AnAATFreliesonhelicoptersupportthroughoutanairassaultoperation.Assuch,itmaybelimitedby(cid:650)
(cid:122) Adverse weather; extreme heat and cold; and other environmental conditions (such as blowing
snowand sand)thatlimitflight operations, helicopter liftingcapability,or altitudeand elevation
restrictionsthataffectoperationalcapabilities.
(cid:122) Relianceonairlinesofcommunication.
(cid:122) Threataircraft,airdefense,andelectronicwarfareaction. |
3-99 | 134 | Chapter 8
(cid:122) Reducedgroundmobilityonceinserted(particularlySBCTandABCTforces).
(cid:122) Availability of suitable landing zones and pickup zones due to mountainous, urban, jungle, or
othercomplexterrain.
(cid:122) Availabilityofairroutes(forexample,airroutesnearinternationalborders).
(cid:122) Availabilityofchemical,biological,radiological,andnuclearprotectionanddecontaminationcapability.
(cid:122) Battlefieldobscurationthatlimitshelicopterflight.
(cid:122) Highfuelandammunitionconsumptionrates.
(cid:122) Availabilityoforganicfires,sustainmentassets,andprotection.
VULNERABILITIES
8-19. An AATF uses helicopters to move to and close with the enemy. Initial assault elements should be
light and mobile. They often are separated from weapon systems, equipment, and materiel that provide
protectionandsurvivabilityonthebattlefield.AnAATFisparticularlyvulnerableto(cid:650)
(cid:122) Enemyattackbyaircraftandairdefenseweaponsystemsduringthemovementphase.
(cid:122) Enemy attack by chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear weapons because of limited
protectionanddecontaminationcapability.
(cid:122) Enemyattackbyground,air,orartilleryduringtheloadingandlandingphases.
(cid:122) Enemyairstrikesduetolimitedavailabilityofairdefenseweaponsystems.
(cid:122) Enemy electronic attack to include jamming of communications and navigation systems, and
disruptingaircraftsurvivabilityequipment.
(cid:122) Enemy small-arms fire that presents a large threat to helicopters during the air movement and
landingphases.
SECTION V – AIRSPACE CONTROL
8-20. Airspacecontrolrequires both a control authorityand a controlsystem. Airspace control is a process
used to increase operational effectivenessbypromotingthe safe,efficient,and flexibleuse ofairspace with
minimum restraint upon airspace users. Planning must include coordinating, integrating, and regulating
airspacetoincreaseoperationaleffectiveness.Properplanningcauseseffectiveairspacecontrolandreduces
theriskoffratricide,enhancesairdefense,andpermitsflexibility.
CONCURRENT EMPLOYMENT
8-21. Airspace controlisapplyingairspace controlto coordinateairspace users forconcurrent employment
in assigned missions. Effective airspace control enables all warfighting functions to work efficiently while
synchronizing air operations to support the commander’s intent. Successful airspace control is dependent
on the ability to perform the functions of identification, coordination, integration, and regulation of airspace
users.
8-22. Properly managed airspace increases combat effectiveness. Ensuring the safe, efficient and flexible
use of airspace, minimizes restraint placed on airspace users. It includes coordinating, integrating, and
regulating airspace to increase operational effectiveness. Effective airspace control reduces the risk of
fratricide,enhancesairdefense,andpermitsflexibility.
8-23. Airspacecontroldoesnotdenoteownership of a blockofairspaceorcommandover activities within
that airspace. Rather, it refers to users of the airspace. All air missions are subject to the airspace control
order published by the airspace control authority, which provides direction to deconflict, coordinate, and
integratetheuseofairspacewithintheoperationalarea.
8-24. Joint forces use airspace to conduct air operations, deliver fires, employ air defense measures, and
conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations. At times, these missions may be time
sensitiveandavoidtheabilitytoconductdetailedcoordinationwiththe land force.Itisimperativethatland
forces provide their higher headquarters with all airspace coordinating measures to provide visibility to
otherjointusersandpreventfratricide. |
3-99 | 135 | Organization and Employment
8-25. Methodsofairspacecontrolareasfollows:
(cid:122) Positive control relies on positive identification, tracking, and directing aircraft within the
airspacecontrolarea.Ituseselectronic meanssuchasradar;sensors;identification,friendorfoe
systems; selective identificationfeature capabilities; digital data links;and other elementsof the
intelligencesystemandmissioncommandnetworkstructures.
(cid:122) Procedural controlreliesoncombining mutuallyagreedand promulgated ordersand procedures.
These may include comprehensive air defense identification procedures and rules of
engagement, aircraft identification maneuvers, fire support coordination measures, and airspace
coordinating measures. Service, joint, and multinational capabilities and requirements determine
which method, or which elements of each method, that airspace control plans and systems use.
Proceduralcontrol is acommonmethodused byallairspaceusers(toincludeindirect fireunits)
todeconflictairspace.InArmyrotary-wingoperations,suchasairassaults,proceduralcontrolis
usedmoreoftenthanpositivecontrol.
AIRSPACE COORDINATING MEASURES
8-26. Airspace coordinating measures are measures employed to facilitate the efficient use of airspace to
accomplish missions and simultaneously provide safeguards for friendly forces. (Refer to FM 3-52 for
moreinformation.)
8-27. Commonairspacecoordinatingmeasuresusedduringanairassaultareasfollows:
(cid:122) Coordinating altitudes use altitude to separate users and as the transition between different
airspace coordinating entities. The airspace coordinating entities should be included in the air
control plan and promulgated in the airspace control order. Armyechelons incorporate airspace
controlplanning guidanceand integrate the airspace controlorder, area air defenseplan, special
instructions, and air tasking order via operation orders (OPORDs). All airspace users should
coordinate with the appropriate airspace coordinating entities when transitioning through or
firingthroughthecoordinatingaltitude.
(cid:122) Restricted operations areas are airspaces of defined dimensions created in response to specific
operational situations or requirements within which the operation of one or more airspace users
is restricted. They are known as restricted operations zones. The AATF may use a restricted
operations area or restricted operations zone to deconflict an area where prior coordination
enhancesaviationsafety.
(cid:122) Using standard Army aircraft flight routes that are routes established below the coordinating
altitude to facilitate the movement of Army aviation assets. They normally are located in the
corps through BCT support areas and do not require approval of the airspace control authority.
Theynormallyarelisted onthecurrentairspacecontrolorder.Directionoftravelcanbedictated
asone-ortwo-waytraffic.
(cid:122) Usingaircorridors that arerestrictedairroutes oftravelspecified for use byfriendlyaircraftand
establishedforpreventingfriendlyaircraft frombeing fired onbyfriendlyforces.Theyareused
to route aviation combat elements between such areas as forward arming and refueling points,
holding areas, and battle positions. Altitudes of an air corridor do not exceed the established
coordinatingaltitude.
(cid:122) Using axis of advance that is a general route of advance, assigned for the purposes of control,
which extends toward the enemy. The axis of advance symbol graphically portrays a
commander’sintention,suchasavoidingbuilt-upareasorknown enemyair defense sites. When
used for attack aviation operations, it provides the general direction of movement and may be
subdividedintoroutes.
(cid:122) Using air control points which are points easily identifiable on the terrain or an electronic
navigational aid used to provide necessary control during air movement. Designate air control
points at each point where the air route or air corridor makes a definite change in anydirection
andatanyotherpointdeemed necessaryfortimingorcontroloftheoperation.
(cid:122) Usingcommunicationcheckpointswhicharepointsalongtheairroutewhereserialcommanders
report to the air mission commander. Radio transmissions should be used only when necessary.
Ifareportisrequired,considerusingcodestoensureashorttransmission. |
3-99 | 136 | Chapter 8
AIRSPACE DEVELOPMENT
8-28. When developing a course of action, the ground maneuver unit should plan an air axis of advance.
This provides the general concept to the aviation planners who further refine it into routes with enough
guidance to determine the direction from which the commander wants to approach. Do not submit the
developedaxisofadvancetothehigherheadquartersairspacecontrolelement.
AIRROUTEPLANNING
8-29. Upon receipt of the course of action, the aviation liaison officer plans the air routes within the air
axisofadvance.Theaviationunitnormallyplansmultiplerouteswithintheaxisofadvancesincethethreat
air defense disposition may not be clear. The air defense airspace management/brigade aviation element
(ADAM/BAE) should assist in route planning, but the supporting aviation unit is responsible for
completingtheroutesandsubmittingthemtothehigherheadquartersairspacecontrolelementforinclusion
ontheairspacecontrolorder.
RESTRICTEDOPERATIONSZONEPLANNING
8-30. Any unit with organic unmanned aircraft system (UAS) is responsible for planning their own
restricted operations zones for unmanned aircraft launch and recovery. All elements operating UAS in a
BCT submit their request through the ADAM/BAE for deconfliction before submitting it to the higher
headquartersairspacecontrolelement.
8-31. UASlaunchandrecoveryrestrictedoperationszonestypicallyshouldbethreekilometersinradiusor
surface to coordinating altitude, but may be tailored to meet operational requirements. Due to their size,
unmanned aircraft launch and recoveryrestricted operations zones should notbe planned near indirect fire
units,supportingaviationunitassemblyareas,orforwardarmingandrefuelingpoints(FARPs)ifpossible.
8-32. The supporting combat aviation brigade submits restricted operations zone locations for mission
command and air medical evacuation aircraft to the higher headquarters airspace control element. Mission
command and air medical evacuation aircraft restricted operation zones should be at least three by three
kilometers in size. The combat aviation brigade plans both a primary and alternate restricted operations
zones for eachaircraft. Thisenablescontrolofthe operationas it moves forward and provides a restricted
operations zone, if needed, for the higher headquarters mobile command group. Fire support units can
utilize restricted operations zones to assist in deconflicting airspace between firing locations and target
locations.
8-33. Special consideration should be given to planned employment of an organic UAS near a landing
zone. If required due to the tactical mission, small-UAS should be clearly separated by a defined terrain
featurefromthelandingzone area,andtheapproachandexitroutesofaircraft.
METHODSTODECONFLICTONTHEOBJECTIVEAREA
8-34. Three possible methods to deconflict airspace between attack reconnaissance aircraft and assault
aircraftontheobjectivearedescribedinthefollowingparagraphs. Theyinclude: grid lineorterrainfeature
separation,attackbyfirepositioning,andcallclearmethods.
GridLineor TerrainFeatureSeparation
8-35. Thisisthe mostrestrictive buteasiest method to execute. It maynotallowthe attackreconnaissance
units to engage targets in the close combat attack role during the air assault, but this technique is
appropriate whentime islimited for rehearsals,or whenpriorplanningisextremelylimitedornotpossible.
Withthis method,the attackreconnaissance unitsclear the airspace forinbound assaultunitsbymovingto
a designated grid line or terrain feature on either side of the objective. This movement and the subsequent
maneuver ofthe attackreconnaissance unitsinand around the objective area are executed accordingto the
instructionsintheorder.(Seefigure 8-1.) |
3-99 | 137 | Organization and Employment
Figure 8-1. Grid line method
AttackbyFirePositioning
8-36. Attackbyfirepositioningis a method ofdeconfliction,as it allows attackreconnaissance aircraftthe
flexibility to engage targets during the air assault in support of the ground commander. The attack
reconnaissance units occupy known attack by fire positions according to the published OPORD. This
methodrestrictstheattackreconnaissance unitstothegeneralvicinityofthe attackbyfirepositionsbutnot
toaspecificgrid.(Seefigure8-2,page8-10.)
8-37. The attack by fire positioning method requires the attack reconnaissance units to ensure they stay
clear of the landing zone and do not cross the centerline of the direction of flight. Using this method
requirestheattackreconnaissanceaircrafttohaveincreasedsituationalawareness.This methodisbestused
whenallelementshaveadequatetimetorehearse. |
3-99 | 138 | Chapter 8
Figure 8-2. Attack by fire method
CallClear
8-38. Thecallclear methodisused incontingencycircumstances whenassaultorother aircraft(suchasair
medical evacuation or mission command aircraft) are inbound to the objective area. It is initiated with an
inbound call of the assault or other aircraft to the landing zone and a response from the attack
reconnaissance air mission commander indicating that all elements of the landing zone and the flight path
to it from the release point are clear. Avoid using this method during the main air assault itself due to
congestionontheairbattlenetwork.
SECTION VI – AIR ASSAULT TASK FORCE MISSION COMMAND
8-39. Mission command is the exercise of authorityand direction bythe commander using mission orders
to enable disciplined initiative withinthe commander's intent to empower agile and adaptive leaders in the
conduct of unified land operations (ADP 6-0). Mission command— as a warfighting function— assist the
AATFCinbalancingtheartofcommand withthescience ofcontrol, whileemphasizingthehumanaspects
of mission command. Mission command systems within AATF includes the arrangement of personnel,
networks, information systems, processes and procedures, and facilities and equipment that enable the
AATFCtoconductairassaultoperations.
MISSION ORDERS
8-40. The AATFC,supportedbyhisstaff,conductsair assaultoperations through centralizedplanningand
decentralized execution based on mission orders. The commander during the development of mission
orders applies the foundation of mission command together with the mission command warfighting
function,guidedbythefollowingprinciples:
(cid:122) Buildcohesiveteamsthroughmutualtrust.
(cid:122) Createsharedunderstanding.
(cid:122) Provide a clear commander’sintent.
(cid:122) Exercisedisciplinedinitiative.
(cid:122) Usemissionorders.
(cid:122) Acceptprudentrisk. |
3-99 | 139 | Organization and Employment
8-41. The AATFC’s intent, formalized in the order and understood at the execution level, provides the
AATF with the concept of operations (CONOPS), allowing the task force to act promptlyas the situation
requires.Thecommander focuseshis orderonthepurpose of tasksandtheairassault operationas a whole
rather than on the details of how to perform assigned tasks. Orders and plans are as brief and simple as
possible.(RefertoFM6-0formoreinformation.)
8-42. Asthecommander developshis CONOPShe considersthe complexityof the operation, the mission
variablesofMETT-TC,andtheexperiencelevelofhissubordinatecommandersandstaffs todeterminethe
detail of command. In most situations, air assaults are centrally planned and well-rehearsed before
execution. This ensures that each subordinate leader knows the commander’s intent and is able to execute
hismissionwithminimaldirection.
8-43. Contingencies or alternative courses of actions should be factored into the plan to allow for
continuationofthe missioninadynamicenvironment. Tasksmustbeplannedtooccurbasedontimeorthe
execution of a previous task (or tasks) so that actions occur at the specified time or in the specified
sequence. Use manned or UASs for communications relay to help mitigate potentially degraded or lost
communications. Commanders must plan contingencies for degraded or intermittent communications.
RefertoFM6-02formoreinformation.)
8-44. Another factor for the AATFC to consider whendetermining missioncommand responsibilityisthe
locationofthekeyAATFleadership.Keyleadersshouldbepositionedintodiscreteelementsanddispersed
throughout the lifts with provisions to ensure continuity of command. (Figure 8-3 on page 8-12 shows an
exampleforpositioningkeyleadersduringanairassault.)
8-45. While air assault planning is centralized, air assault execution is aggressive and decentralized.
Subordinate commanders should be givenas much freedomofactionas possible (consistent withrisk, the
situation,andmissionaccomplishment)toempowerleaderstoseize,retain,andexploittheinitiative. |
3-99 | 140 | Chapter 8
Figure 8-3. Example of air assault leadership positioning
COMMAND POSTS
8-46. TheAATFCexecutesmissioncommandthroughtheestablishmentoftwoprimarycommandposts—
maincommandpostandtacticalcommandpost.IftheAATFCistheBCTcommander,hehastheoptionto
form a command group consistingof select staff members who accompanyhimand helpexercise mission
command awayfrom a commandpost.Thefollowingparagraphsaddresseshowthe AATFCorganizesthe
AATFcommandpostsfortheconductofanairassault.
MAINCOMMANDPOST
8-47. The main command post provides control of operations when the tactical command post is not
deployed.Whenthetacticalcommandpostisdeployed,themaincommandpost(cid:650)
(cid:122) Providesplanningforfutureoperations.
(cid:122) Maintainscurrentenemyandfriendlysituations.
(cid:122) Gathersinformationanddisseminatesintelligence.
(cid:122) Keepshigherandadjacentorganizationsinformedofthefriendlysituationandsubmitsrecurring
reports.
(cid:122) Actsasliaisontohigherandadjacentorganizations.
(cid:122) Coordinatesforandadvisesthecommanderontheuseofenablersforfutureoperations.
(cid:122) Assiststhetacticalcommandpostwithexecutingoperationsasneeded.
(cid:122) Developsanddisseminatesordersasnecessary. |
3-99 | 141 | Organization and Employment
TACTICALCOMMANDPOST
8-48. The AATFC employs the tactical command post as an extension of the main command post to help
control execution of the air assault for a limited period. The AATFtactical command post may be
employed into the objective area soon after the initial echelon if the enemy situation permits. The tactical
commandpostassiststhecommanderincontrollingcurrentoperationsbytakingthefollowingactions:
(cid:122) Maintaining the common operational picture and assisting in developing situational
understanding.
(cid:122) Developingcombatintelligenceofimmediateinteresttothecommander.
(cid:122) Maneuveringforces.
(cid:122) Controllingandcoordinatingfires.
(cid:122) Coordinatingwithadjacentunitsandforwardairdefenseelements.
(cid:122) Servingasthemaincommand postifthe maincommandpostisdestroyedorunabletofunction.
8-49. ThetacticalcommandpostcomprisestheAATFC,representativesfromtheS-2andS-3sections, fire
support officer, brigade aviation officer, and air liaison officer or whomever the commander designates.
The tactical command post deploys in a mission command aircraft in which the air mission commander
will be located. This aircraft contains a mission command package, which allows the commander to
observeanddirecttheairassaultfroma forwardposition if he chooses.TheAATFCmayelect todeploya
tacticalcommandpostwiththe maneuver force.Thiscommand post isledbythe AATF S-3andcomprises
amission-tailoredportionoftheAATFheadquarters.
COMMANDGROUPS
8-50. Command group is the commander and selected staff members who assist the commander in
controlling operations away from a command post (FM 6-0). The BCT headquarters can form two
command groups, whichare organized based onthe mission. Bothareequipped to operateseparatelyfrom
the tactical command post or main command post. Command groups give the commander and the
executive officer (if required) the mobilityand protection to move throughout the area of operation and to
observeanddirectBCToperationsfromforwardpositions.
8-51. Both command groupsrequire a dedicated securityelement, additionalconsiderationsare required if
ground movement is planned. The command group led by the BCT commander comprises whomever he
designates. This can include the command sergeant major and representatives fromthe S-2, S-3, and fires
sections. The commander positions his command group near the most critical event, usually with or near
thedecisiveoperation.
8-52. A second command group led by the brigade executive officer, if used, may include representation
from the operations staff section, intelligence staff section, and fire support element. The executive officer
usually positions his command group with a shaping operation or at a location designated by the BCT
commander. The executive officer must be able to communicate with the BCT commander, battalion and
squadroncommanders,andcommandposts.
PERSONNEL AND KEY ELEMENTS WITHIN THE TASK FORCE
8-53. Emphasizingthe human aspectsof missioncommand are the personnel and keyelements withinthe
AATF whooperate command postsand assistthe AATFC byexercisingcontroloftheairassaultfromthe
initialplanningstagesthrough execution. Thissectiondescribesthe duties andresponsibilitiesofpersonnel
andkeyelementswithinanairassaultoperations..
AIRASSAULTTASKFORCECOMMANDER
8-54. The AATFC is the overall commander of the AATF. He ensures continuityof command throughout
the operation. He must position himself where he can best see the battlefield and control the operation. In
situationsthatallow, he isairborne ina missioncommand aircraftduringthe air movementstage. Atother
times,he mayfightthebattlefromatactical commandpost. |
3-99 | 142 | Chapter 8
GROUNDTACTICALCOMMANDER
8-55. The ground commander is the commander of the largest ground maneuver force inserted during an
air assault. He is usually one of the AATFC’s subordinate maneuver commanders (such as a battalion or
company commander). He flies on one of the first serials into the objective area, maintaining
communicationwiththeAATFCduringtheflight.
AIRMISSIONCOMMANDER
8-56. The air mission commander is the aviation unit commander or his designated representative. He
receives and executes the AATFC guidance and directives, and controls all aviation elements. The air
mission commander ensures continuity of command for all supporting aviation units and employs attack
reconnaissance helicoptersand artilleryalongthe air route, fightingthe battle from pickup zone to landing
zonewhilekeepingtheAATFCinformed.
AIRASSAULTTASKFORCES-3
8-57. The AATF S-3 assists the AATFC with mission command. He normally leads the AATF tactical
commandpostwhentheAATFCisairbornein a missioncommandaircraft.
BRIGADEAVIATIONOFFICER
8-58. The brigade aviationofficer advises the AATFC onall mattersrelatingto Armyaviation and, along
with the AATF S-3 Air, jointlydevelops the detailed plans necessary to support the air assault operation.
During the execution phase, he should be available to assist the AATFC or S-3 Air in coordinating the
employmentofaviationunits.
AIRDEFENSEAIRSPACEMANAGEMENT/BRIGADEAVIATIONELEMENT
8-59. The air defense airspace management/brigade aviation element (ADAM/BAE), led by the brigade
aviationofficer,isa functional elementresidingintheBCT’smaincommandpost.This functionalelement
continually plans for airspace use, executes near real-time control during execution, and monitors
operations of airspace users. This situational understanding is critical to ensure that the BCT can react to
any situation requiring immediate use of airspace, such as immediate fires, close air support, unplanned
UASlaunches,or a diversionofaviationassets.
8-60. The ADAM/BAE coordinates directly withthe aviationbrigade or the supportingaviationtask force
fordetailed missionplanning. The ADAM/BAEelement isequipped withtheTactical AirspaceIntegration
System (TAIS), which provides a digitized, integrated, and automated system to provide airspace control
and air traffic services. Shared functionsbetweenthe ADAM and BAE include analysis ofairspace use to
determine and resolve conflicts; maintaining, requesting, and dissemination of joint airspace coordinating
measures;anddevelopmentandcoordinationoftheairspacecontrolappendix.
AirDefenseAirspaceManagement
8-61. TheADAMplansandsynchronizesairand missiledefense operationswiththe groundcommander’s
scheme of maneuver. The ADAM produces the integrated air picture, plans low-level sensor employment,
and develops and maintains the air defense artillery overlay to include unit locations; weapons control
statusandweaponsystemcoverage.
BrigadeAviationElement
8-62. The BAE advises the AATF on all tactical matters relating to Armyaviation. The element provides
subject matter expertise on enemy threat weapons and tactics, techniques, and procedures; aircraft
survivabilityequipment;andmissionplanningandmustbecapableof24-houroperations.TheBAE:
(cid:122) PlansandsynchronizesaviationwiththeBCTcommander’sconceptofoperation.
(cid:122) Advises and plans the use of unmanned aircraft systems, reconnaissance, attack, assault, air
movement,sustainment,andmedicalevacuation.
(cid:122) StandardizesBCTunmannedaircraftsystememployment. |
3-99 | 143 | Organization and Employment
FIRESUPPORTOFFICER
8-63. The AATFfire supportofficer plans,coordinates, andsynchronizes fire supportforallphasesofthe
airassault.Hedeployswith the AATFCina missioncommandhelicoptertoensurethefiresupportplan is
executedasplanned.
AVIATIONLIAISONOFFICER
8-64. Although the ADAM/BAE conducts many of the functions traditionally performed by liaison
officers, the aviation liaison officer from the supporting aviation brigade remains a critical part of the air
assault planning process. The aviation liaison officer can be the supporting aviation unit S-3, the aviation
mission survivability officer, or another aviation subject matter expert designated by the supporting
aviationunitcommander.
8-65. While the members of the ADAM/BAE work directly for the BCT commander as permanent staff
members, aviation liaison officers represent the supporting aviation task force at a designated maneuver
headquarters only for a specific operation. If colocated with the ADAM/BAE, the liaison officer team
normallyreportsto the brigade aviationofficer as a functioning additionto the ADAM/BAE staff section.
Often, the aviation liaison officer coordinates with the ADAM/BAE and then proceeds to a supported
groundmaneuverbattalion.
AIRLIAISONOFFICER
8-66. The air liaison officer (ALO) is an USAF officer who leads the tactical air control party (TACP)
colocated at the BCT headquartersand advisesthe BCT commander and staffon air operations. The ALO
leveragesthe expertise ofthe BCT TACP with linksto the higher headquarters TACP to plan, coordinate,
synchronize,and execute air support operations. He maintainssituationalawarenessofthe total air support
andairsupporteffectspicture.Additionalresponsibilitiesoftheairliaisonofficerinclude(cid:650)
(cid:122) Monitoringtheexecutionoftheairtaskingorder.
(cid:122) Advisingthecommanderandstaffabouttheemploymentofairassets.
(cid:122) Receiving, coordinating, planning, prioritizing, and synchronizing immediate close air support
requests.
(cid:122) ProvidingUSAFinputtoanalysesandplans.
PICKUPZONECONTROLOFFICER
8-67. A pickup zone control officer (PZCO) is designated for each pickup zone in an air assault. The
PZCO organizes, controls, and coordinates operations in the pickup zone. Depending on the unit that is
conducting the air assault, the PZCO may be a BCT, battalion, or company executive officer; BCT or
battalion S-3 Air; or sometimes a company first sergeant. The PZCO operates on the combat aviation
networkandispreparedtoassistinexecutingchangesasneeded.
MISSION COMMAND SYSTEM
8-68. The mission command system enables mission command. As with any operation the BCT uses
networks and information systems, such as Brigade Combat Team Network and/or LandWarNet, to share
the common operational picture with subordinates to guide the exercise of initiative. The common
operational picture conveys the BCT commander’s perspective and facilitates subordinates’ situational
understanding.This sectionidentifies core Armybattlecommand systemsand discusses mission command
systemsthatenablecentralizedplanninganddecentralizedexecutionspecificallytoairassaultoperations.
INFORMATIONSYSTEMS
8-69. An information system consists of equipment that collect, process, store, display, and disseminate
information. Thisincludescomputers— hardware and software— and communications, as wellaspolicies
and procedures for their use (ADP 6-0). The Army Battle Command System gives the BCT advantages in
collectingtechnicalinformation,anddistributinginformationandintelligencerapidly.Thebattlecommand |
3-99 | 144 | Chapter 8
system comprises core battlefield automated systems plus common services and network management.
Each system provides access and the passing of information from a horizontally integrated BCT mission
commandnetwork.Thefollowingarethecoresystems:
(cid:122) Tactical Battle Command. The Tactical Battle Command System comprises the functions
previouslyperformedbytheManeuverControlSystemandtheCommandPostoftheFuture.
(cid:122) GlobalCommandandControlSystem-Army.
(cid:122) DistributedCommonGroundSystem-Army.
(cid:122) BattleCommandSustainmentandSupportSystem.
(cid:122) AirandMissileDefensePlanningandControlSystem.
(cid:122) AdvancedFieldArtilleryTacticalDataSystem.
(cid:122) ForceXXIBattleCommand-BrigadeandBelow/BlueForceTracker.
(cid:122) TacticalAirspaceIntegrationSystem.
(cid:122) DigitalTopographicSupportSystem.
(cid:122) IntegratedSystemControl.
INTEGRATEDSYSTEMCONTROL
8-70. The BCT and battalion S-6 signal officers and S-6 sections are the air assault staff proponents
responsible for planning and coordinating communications support for each phase of the air assault
operation. They use integrated system control to provide communications system network management,
control, planning, and support to the AATF. Also known as, the tactical internet management system,
integrated systemcontrol provides network initialization, local area network management services, and an
automated system to support the combat network radio-based wide area network. Features of integrated
system control include mission plan management, network planning and engineering, frequency spectrum
management,tacticalpacketnetworkmanagement,andwideareanetworkmanagement.
8-71. As the AATF executes the mission and distances become extended, communications for mission
command become less sophisticated. The AATF must make extensive use of airborne or unattended very
high frequency (VHF) retransmission, high frequency (HF) capabilities, and ultrahigh frequency (UHF)
tactical satellite (TACSAT). Subordinate elements in the AATF may range beyond multichannel
capabilities and radio transmissions, and transmissions may be unintelligible due to enemy electronic
countermeasures. As a result, subordinate commanders of the AATF may have to make decisions without
beingincontactwiththeAATFC.
RADIONETWORK
8-72. The AATF uses combat network radios primarily for voice mission command transmission and
secondarily for data transmission where other data capabilities do not exist. Combat network radios are
designed primarily around the single-channel ground and airborne radio system, the single-channel
TACSAT,andtheHFradio.(RefertoFM 6-02.53formoreinformation.)
8-73. AATF S-6 planners organize frequency-monitoring requirements into a communications card or
matrixanddistributetokeyleaders, commandposts,andotherkeypersonnel.Using a dynamic mix ofair-
to-air, air-to-ground, and ground-to-ground radio networks provides the necessary responsiveness and
flexibilityfor air assault mission command. Table 8-3 on page 8-18 depicts the radio networks commonly
employedduringairassaultsandrecommendedmonitoringrequirementsforeach.Applythefollowing:
(cid:122) Air assault task force command network is a VHF command network dedicated to ground-to-
ground coordination during operations. It normally is secure and used by the AATFC to
communicate with his subordinate commanders. Given the VHF communication range
limitations in restrictive terrain, consider alternate means of communications such as UHF
TACSATorHFwhenplanninganairassault.
(cid:122) Combat aviation network (CAN) is a VHF network dedicated to air-to-ground coordination
during operations. All aviation elements and the remainder of the AATF elements monitor this
network before and during air movements. The two combat air networks typically employed
duringanairassaultareasfollows: |
3-99 | 145 | Organization and Employment
CAN 1. CAN 1 provides common communications between the air assault task force
(cid:132)
commander, air mission commander, ground commander, and the pickup zone control
officer.
CAN 2. CAN 2 is usually reserved as an anti-jamming network. The pickup zone control
(cid:132)
officer can use this network to provide terminal guidance to individual flight leads when
required.
(cid:122) Air battle networkis typically a UHFcommand networkdedicated to air-to-air communications
between the air mission commander and all aviation element leaders. All aviation elements
monitor this networkand receive instructions fromthe air missioncommander or the air assault
task force commander when he is airborne. This network is operated on the lift unit’s UHF
commandfrequencyifadedicated airborneisnotspecifiedintheOPORDorairmissionbrief.
(cid:122) Fire support network is a VHF network operated by the air assault task force fire support
coordinator.Allaviationelement s must have access to this network to facilitate calls for fire
during movements, insertions, and extractions. An artillery quick-fire network is used when a
supporting battery or battalion is dedicated to an air assault. Plan alternate means of
communication, suchas TACSAT, multi-use internetrelaychat,and blue force tracker or Force
XXIBattleCommand-BrigadeandBelow(FBCB2),incaseofVHFcommunicationfailure.
(cid:122) Operations and intelligence network is a secure VHF network controlled by the S-2 section at
themaincommandpost.Allroutinetacticalreportsandotherintelligencereportsaresentonthis
network, freeingthe air assault task forcecommander network forcommandandcombat critical
traffic. The main command posts for all elements of the air assault task force and supporting
aviationunitsmonitortheoperationsandintelligencenetwork.
(cid:122) Aviation internal network is typicallya VHF network operated byeach aviation element leader
forinternaluse.UsingVHFradiosprovideseachelementleaderwithadedicatedfrequencywith
which to direct and control individual aircraft, teams, or platoons and to communicate with air
trafficcontrolauthorities.
(cid:122) PickupzonecontrolnetworkisaVHFnetworkestablishedbythepickupzonecontrolofficerfor
communicationsbetweengroundforcesat thepickupzone. Thepickupzonecontrolofficer may
request to use the communication platform from a mission command UH-60 if it is available.
The pickup zone control officer uses this network to control the flow of vehicles in and around
the pickup zone. He communicates with the pickup zone control party on this network. This
ensuresthat chalksarelinedupcorrectly,externalloads(slingloads) areready, the bump planis
activated if necessary, and extraneous vehicles and personnel are kept clear of pickup zone
operations. Alllifted units should enter the pickup zone controlnetwork30 minutesbefore their
pickup zone time. Specific chalks may be required to monitor the network if the aircraft
formationinthepickupzonerequiresthem. |
3-99 | 146 | Chapter 8
Table 8-3. Standard air assault radio networks and monitoring requirements |
3-99 | 147 | Chapter 9
Air Assault Planning
Planning for air assault operations mirrors the military decisionmaking process
(MDMP). It incorporates parallel and collaborative planning actions necessary to
provide the additional time and detailed planning required for successful execution of
the air assault mission. Standardizing operations between units conducting the air
assaultsignificantlyenhancestheabilityoftheunittoaccomplishthemission.
SECTION I – ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
9-1. Air assault planning is as detailed as time permits and should include completion of written orders
and plans. Within time constraints, the air assault task force commander (AATFC) carefully evaluates
capabilities andlimitationsof thetotalforceanddevelops aplan thatensuresa high probabilityofsuccess.
Theplanningtime shouldabidebytheone-third/two-thirdsruletoensuresubordinateshaveenoughtime to
planandrehearse.
HIGHER HEADQUARTERS
9-2. The headquarters above the element forming the air assault task force (AATF) directs the formation
ofthe AATF.This headquartersallocatesunits, defines authority,and assignsresponsibilitybydesignating
command and support relationships. The staff of this headquarters is responsible for developing the task
organizationof the AATFand conducting the necessarystepsofthe MDMP. Adivision-levelcommander
orhisequivalentistheapprovingauthorityfortheformationof anAATFlargerthanacompany.
BRIGADE COMBAT TEAM
9-3. The brigade combat team (BCT) is the core of the air assault and the BCT commander is normally
the AATFC for a battalion air assault. The AATFC for a company air assault is normally the battalion
commander of the company conducting the assault. The primary role of the AATFC and his staff is to
developthegroundtacticalplanbyprovidinghisstaffandthesupportingaviation unitstaffwith keytasks,
intentandaviationstaffguidanceconcerningtheweightoftheattackreconnaissancecoverageandthelevel
ofacceptableriskforthesupportingaviationunits.
SUPPORTING AVIATION UNITS
9-4. Normally, supporting aviation units are operational control to the AATFC. Occasionally, an aviation
taskforcemaybecreatedtosupportanAATF.However,the combataviationbrigadecommandertypically
anticipatesthe needsofthe AATFCandprovidesthe necessary aviationunitstosupport the missionofthe
AATF. As the supporting unit, the combat aviation brigade commander directs aviation units within his
commandorrequestsaugmentationfromhishigherheadquarterstomeettheneedsoftheAATFC.
SECTION II – REVERSE PLANNING SEQUENCE
9-5. Air assault planning is based on careful analysis of the mission variables of METT-TC and detailed
reverseplanning.Fivebasicplanscomprisethereverseplanningsequence.(Seefigure9-1,page9-2.)They
are(cid:650)
(cid:122) Groundtacticalplan.
(cid:122) Landingplan.
(cid:122) Airmovementplan.
(cid:122) Loadingplan. |
3-99 | 148 | Chapter 9
(cid:122) Stagingplan.
9-6. These plans are not developed independently. The AATF staff and supporting aviation unit
coordinate, develop, and refine concurrently to make best use of available time and resources. They
develop the ground tacticalplan first, which serves as the basis to develop the other plans. Each plan may
potentiallyaffect the others. Changes in an aspect of one plan mayrequire adjustments in the other plans.
The AATFC must determine if such adjustments entail acceptable risk. If the risk is unacceptable, the
conceptofoperations(CONOPS)mustchange.
Figure 9-1. Air assault planning stages
SECTION III – PLANNING METHODOLOGY
9-7. The AATF staff conducts continuous coordination under the guidance of the AATF executive officer
and S-3 duringcourse ofaction development. Concurrent planningincludes identifying air assault hazards
anddevelopingcontrolstomitigaterisk.
9-8. The air defense airspace management/brigade aviation element (ADAM/BAE) and the supporting
aviation liaison officer from the combat aviation brigade serve as the link between the combat aviation
brigadestaffand the AATFstaffandarecritical totheairassault planningprocess during missionanalysis
and course of action development. The ADAM/BAE and the aviation liaison officer serve as the subject
matter experts on aviation operations to the AATF and supported unit staffs during this process. This
enablesthe AATFCandgroundcommander to concentrateonrefiningthe groundtacticalplanandfollow-
on missions. The ADAM/BAE must anticipate requirements of the supported units and disseminate these
requirementsassoonaspossibletotheaviationliaisonofficer.
9-9. The AATF, supported unit staff, and supporting aviation unit staff should receive and share the
following: |
3-99 | 149 | Air Assault Planning
(cid:122) Landingzoneconfirmationsbyimagery,aircraftvideos, landingzone sketches,reconnaissance
products,patrols,andhigherheadquartersintelligence.
(cid:122) Compositionofassault,follow-on,andareaofoperationechelonsbyunit.
(cid:122) Nomenclatureofeveryvehicleandslingloadtobeflownandmaximumexpectedweightandair
itemavailabilityforheavyandlightloads.
(cid:122) Confirmedtroopcountsbyserialforassaultandfollow-onechelons.
9-10. The collaboration between the AATF, supported unit staff, and supporting aviation unit staff results
intheAirAssaultAppendixtoAnnexC(Operations),oftheOPORDandmayinclude(cid:650)
(cid:122) Tentativeliftandserialcomposition(draftairmovementtable).
(cid:122) Listofsuitablepickupzonesandlandingzones.
(cid:122) Tentativeairroutes.
(cid:122) Landingzoneimagery(ifavailable).
(cid:122) Anydeviationsfromstandardplanningfactors.
(cid:122) Anexecutionchecklist.
DELIBERATE PLANNING
9-11. Air assaults are deliberately planned due to the complex nature and requirement to provide the
commander detailed intelligence concerning the enemy situation. The air assault planning process mirrors
the steps in the MDMP and incorporates parallel actions necessary to provide the additional time and
detailedplanningrequired forsuccessful missionexecution. (Figure9-2onpage9-4 providesacomparison
oftheMDMPandtheairassaultplanningprocesswhenmaximumtimeisavailableforplanning.) |
3-99 | 150 | Chapter 9
Figure 9-2. MDMP and air assault planning process
TIME-CONSTRAINED PLANNING
9-12. Due to the dynamic nature of operations, units oftenare required to execute air assaults withinshort
time constraints, sometimes a few hours from the time of receiving the OPORD. Based on the time
available, the AATF executiveofficeradjusts the timelineasrequired. It is critical forthe executiveofficer
to consider the ability of the supporting aviation unit to accomplish its tasks with its crew endurance
program.(Seefigure 9-3,page 9-5.) |
3-99 | 151 | Air Assault Planning
Figure 9-3. Time-constrained air assault planning
9-13. Successful execution of an air assault in a time-constrained environment requires parallel and
collaborative planning by all units and staffs that are part of or supporting the AATF. Parallel planning
begins as soon as the mission is received, with the supporting combat aviation brigade providing liaison
officers or conducting coordination through the ADAM/BAE to the AATF if they are not colocated with
unit. Through continual coordination with the supporting combat aviation brigade, the ADAM/BAE
advisestheAATFS-3onlimitationsofaircraftorcrewavailabilityaffectingcourseofactiondevelopment.
9-14. Oncethe AATFChasprovidedadirected courseofactionorapprovedacourseofaction,thebrigade
aviation officer immediately begins the air mission coordination meeting (AMCM). To save time by
reducing the number of meetings, specific portions of the air mission brief are included in the AATF
OPORDbriefinlieuofdoingaseparateairmissionbrief.WiththeexceptionofthecombinedOPORDand
air mission brief, mission coordination and planning may be completed by phone, e-mail, video
teleconferencing, or other mission command systems. Backbriefs, aircrew briefs, and rehearsals still are
conducted as described earlier. The specific portions of the air mission brief included in the OPORD
briefare(cid:650)
(cid:122) Stagingplan.
(cid:122) Airmovementplan.
(cid:122) Landingplan.
(cid:122) Attackreconnaissancecoverage.
(cid:122) Landingzoneconditioncriteria.
(cid:122) Weatherdecision.
(cid:122) Riskassessment.
RAPID DECISIONMAKING AND SYNCHRONIZATION PROCESS
9-15. Typically, the AATFC executes air assaults in response to time-sensitive intelligence or rapidly
changing battlefield conditions. If time is extremely limited, the AATFC may choose to rely on his
intuition and direct the staff to use the rapid decisionmaking and synchronization process (RDSP). While
the MDMP seeks the optimal solution, the RDSP seeks a timely and effective solution within the
commander’s intent, mission, CONOPS, and level of risk. Using the RDSP lets the staffs avoid the time-
consumingrequirementsofdevelopingand comparing multiple courses of action. (Refer to ADRP 5-0 for
moreinformation.) |
3-99 | 152 | Chapter 9
9-16. Due to a shortage of time, the primary method of coordination for the AMCM and the air mission
brief may be via video teleconference or conference call. However, a face-to-face meeting addressing the
contents of the air mission brief should be conducted before mission execution. This meeting may be
conducted on the pickup zone with aircraft shutdown. At a minimum, the flight lead, air mission
commander,chalkleaders, S-2,andthegroundcommander shouldbepresent. Rehearsalsconducted inthis
situationshouldbecombinedAATFandaviationunitevents.
ALLOWABLE CARGO LOAD PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS
9-17. To load an effective AATF aboard helicopters, commanders and staffs must know the exact
composition of the AATF, the essential characteristics of the types of helicopters to be used for the
operation,andthemethodsofcomputingaircraftrequirements.
9-18. Maximum allowable cargo load (ACL) is affected by altitude and temperature and differs widely
accordingto topographyand climatic conditions commonto specific zonesor areas ofmilitaryoperations.
ACLs vary based on the location of, approaches to, and exits from landing zones; pilot proficiency;
aviation unit standard operating procedures; type of engine in the aircraft; and age of both aircraft and
aircraft engine. Therefore, two identical aircraft, of the same model and type, may not be able to pick up
andcarryidenticalloads.
SECTION IV – PLANNING PROCESS
9-19. Throughout the operations process, the AATFCs and staffs synchronize the warfighting functions to
accomplish missions. Commandersand staffs use several integratingprocesses and continuing activities to
do this. Synchronizationisthe arrangementof action intime, space, and purpose, integrationis combining
actionsinto a unifiedwhole. (RefertoADRP 5-0 formoreinformation.)
9-20. The integrating processes combines the efforts of the AATFC and staff to synchronize specific
functionsthroughouttheoperationsprocess.Theintegratingprocessincludes(cid:650)
(cid:122) Intelligencepreparationofthebattlefield.(RefertoATP 2-01.3formoreinformation.)
(cid:122) Targeting.(RefertoFM 3-60formoreinformation.)
(cid:122) Riskmanagement.(RefertoATP 5-19formoreinformation.)
9-21. The AATFCand staff ensure severalcontinuingactivitiesare continuouslyplannedandcoordinated.
The following continuing activities require particular concern of the commander and staff throughout the
operationsprocess:
(cid:122) Informationcollection.(RefertoFM 3-55formoreinformation.)
(cid:122) Securityoperations.(RefertoFM 3-90-2 formoreinformation.)
(cid:122) Protection.(RefertoADRP 3-37formoreinformation.)
(cid:122) Liaisonandcoordination.(RefertoFM 6-0 formoreinformation.)
(cid:122) Terrainmanagement.(RefertoADRP 3-90formoreinformation.)
(cid:122) Airspacecontrol.(RefertoFM 3-52formoreinformation.)
9-22. MDMP integrates activities of the commander, staff, subordinate commanders, and other military
and civilian partners when developing an air assault OPORD. The AATF staff fosters a shared
understandingofthesituationasitdevelops a synchronizedplanorordertoaccomplish a mission.
WARNING ORDER
9-23. Airassaultplanningbeginswhenthedesignated AATFreceives a warningorder(WARNORD)from
higher headquarters for the upcomingair assault mission. The WARNORD specifies the AATFC and task
organization. This allows the aviation commander to dispatch a liaison officer to the AATF headquarters
early in the planning phase. Other WARNORDs and fragmentary orders (FRAGORDs) should follow as
theAATFstaffandcommanderworkthroughthereverseplanningsequence.
9-24. The following information is sent out with the WARNORD to provide units in the AATF the
informationneededforplanning:
(cid:122) Groundcommander’sschemeofmaneuver. |
3-99 | 153 | Air Assault Planning
(cid:122) Estimateofthesizeoftheforcetobeairassaulted.
(cid:122) Likelypickupzonesandlandingzones.
(cid:122) Airassaulttaskforcecommander’sintentonthenumberofliftsandgeneraltimeline.
(cid:122) Initialestimateonrequirementsforattackreconnaissanceaircraft.
INITIAL PLANNING CONFERENCE
9-25. The initialplanning conference is the first meeting between the AATF staff and supporting aviation
unit. The air missioncommander, liaisonofficer, assault helicopter battalion S-2 and S-3, flight leads, and
select aviation brigade staff personnel should represent the aviation unit. This initial meeting allows the
supporting aviation unit planners to address impacts that environmental factors (climate and weather,
terrain, and altitude) may have on the performance capabilities of the aircraft and subsequent mission
accomplishment withthe AATFplanners, asearlyas possible inthe planningprocess. The initial planning
conferenceisconductedattheAATFheadquarters.
9-26. The AATF staff should have hastily war-gamed the concept for the ground tactical plan before the
initial planningconference inorderforplanners todiscussanddetermine landingzones,routes,and pickup
zones.Ifmore planningtime exists,unitsmayconduct a subsequentAMCM(similartothe initialplanning
conference),butthisoccursafterthegroundtacticalplanandothermissiondetailsarefinalized.
9-27. Following the initial planning conference, the ground and aviation staffs should understand the
distance and general time involved for eachlift. The staffs should know which forces are planned to be in
the first lift and in each serial of the first lift, and which first-lift serials are going to which landing zones
and by what route. Subsequent lifts and follow-on echelon lifts, while discussed at the initial planning
conference,canbeplannedindetailat a later AMCMiftimepermits.
AIR MISSION COORDINATION MEETING
9-28. The air mission coordination meeting (AMCM) is a meeting between the AATF and supporting
aviation units. An S-3 meeting follows the development of the ground tactical plan. The AMCM is run by
the brigade aviation element and chaired by the AATF S-3. The AMCM is scheduled to allow sufficient
timeformaneuverunitstodecide on a specificcourse ofaction basedonthe WARNORD andthestandard
planningfactors.
9-29. The AATFC should approve the maneuver course of action before the AMCM. Atthe AMCM, unit
S-3s brief the concept of their ground tactical plans. S-3s show the composition of combat power, by
echelon, required at each landing zone. It is imperative that the subordinate unit S-3s attend this meeting
withan80to90percentsolutionontheirrequirements.
9-30. The meeting is not complete until the assault helicopter liaison officers know which loads go to
whichlanding zone and in whatsequence. Attackreconnaissance liaisonofficers must knowthe air routes
to be used,and allmustunderstand the landingzonesand agreeon a tentative air movementtable withthe
start and end times of the first and last serial on the landing zone. The brigade aviation element is the
centralfigureincoordinatingthisinformation.
9-31. The AATF S-3, executive officer, or commander must approve changes after the AMCM. It is
criticalthatthe supportedunitand the airassaultplannerscometotheAMCMwiththeinformationneeded
for an effective meeting. (See table 9-1, page 9-8.) The end result of the AMCM is a finalized air
movementplan,landingplan,airroutes,pickupzones,andlandingzones. |
3-99 | 154 | Chapter 9
Table 9-1. Example of an air mission coordination meeting agenda
AIR MISSION BRIEF
9-32. Air mission brief refers to the written product and the briefing itself. The air mission brief is a
coordinated staff effort during which the AATFC approves the air assault plan. The air mission brief is in
additionto the AATFOPORD and ispublished inthe air assault appendix to the operationsannex. (Refer
toFM 6-0 for moreinformation.)
9-33. The air mission brief highlights air assault requirements to the AATF, aviation, and ground units. It
should not be a working meeting. It is a backbrief to the AATFC and important to the key subordinate
aviation and ground unit leaders who execute the mission. The combat aviation brigade or supporting
aviationunitstaffplays a vitalroleintheairmissionbriefprocess.
9-34. Theair missionbriefshouldstressassaultandattackconcepts,sequence ofevents,andthereasoning
forthe mission’ssequence.Theslightestchangeinserialseparation,landingzones,orotherelementsofthe
mission can significantly affect the rest of the plan. The AATFC must approve changes to the air assault
mission after the air mission brief. It is difficult to resynchronize the different warfighting functions in the
shorttimethatremainsbetweentheairmissionbriefandmissionexecution.
AIR MISSION BRIEF DOCUMENTS
9-35. Documentsrequiredtoconduct a thoroughairmissionbriefinclude(cid:650)
(cid:122) Air movement table. The air movement table regulates the sequence of flight operations from
pickupzonetolandingzone.(Refertochapter12ofthispublicationformoreinformation.)
(cid:122) Communications card. The communications card includes a summary of all call signs and
networks.
(cid:122) Pickup zone diagrams. The pickup zone diagram graphically depicts the pickup zone. Units
shouldprepare a separatediagramforeachlightandheavypickupzone. |
3-99 | 155 | Air Assault Planning
(cid:122) Landing zone diagrams. Graphically depicts the landing zone and should be prepare for each
lightandheavylandingzone.
(cid:122) Operations sketch. Sketch provided byeach battalion S-3 describing the ground maneuver plan
and given to the aviation S-3 at the BCT rehearsal. Each pilot carries an operations kneeboard
sketch to provide situational awareness and to counter the potential for fratricide during close
combatoperations.Thesesketchesareincludedasenclosurestothe air missionbrief. Additional
documentsthatenhancetheoperationssketchincludethe gridreferencegraphicandaconceptof
fires.
(cid:122) Routecards.Depictingressandegressroutesontheairassault.
(cid:122) Execution checklist. The air assault execution checklist permits brief, informative radio
transmissions on crowded radio networks. Execution checklists will use brevity codes to
representcriticalpointsinthe schemeofmaneuver.Ensure brevitycodesarealignedwithmulti-
servicebrevitycodes.(RefertoATP1-02.1formoreinformation.)
AIR ASSAULT TASK FORCE REHEARSAL
9-36. The AATF combined arms rehearsal is culminating the formal air assault planning process. It is a
rehearsal of the entire air assault mission, beginning with condition setting and ending with the
commander’sexpressedendstate.
9-37. The rehearsal includes the aviation flight lead, S-3, the AATF staff, and other key leaders. The
emphasisisonsynchronizingallunitssupportingand executingthe air assault. Included inthe rehearsalis
a discussion and demonstration of likely ground and air contingencies, such as downed aircraft, alternate
route or landing zone activation, delays in the pickup zone, alternate suppression of enemy air defenses
(SEAD)plan,andotherssuitedtoaparticularmission.
9-38. It is critical that air assault security forces fromattack reconnaissance aviation units are represented
attherehearsaltoconfirmairroutedeconfliction, firecontrolmeasures,andlocationsofexpectedattack by
fire or battle positions. Additionally, the AATF S-3 or their designated representatives attend the rehearsal
tobrieftheground tacticalandfiresupportplans.
AIRCREW BRIEF
9-39. In the aircrew brief, aviation unit and serial commanders brief all flight crews executing the air
assaultmission.Theaircrewbriefcoversallessentialflightcrewactionsand aviationplanningnecessaryto
accomplish a successful mission. Flight crews must fullyunderstand the mission to execute the air assault
successfully.
9-40. The aircrew brief is conducted at the aviation battalion level, with the aircrews from each unit in
attendance. The aircrew brief can be conducted at the aviation company level (with assistance from the
aviationbrigadestaff)whenconditionsdonotallowthebrieftobeconductedatthebattalionlevel.
AVIATION TASK FORCE REHEARSAL
9-41. The aviation task force combined arms rehearsal is similar to the AATF rehearsal. However, its
emphasis is the aviation scheme of maneuver and the contingencies associated with the movement of
aircraft and how they apply to the mission. The purpose of the aviation task force rehearsal is to validate
synchronization.
9-42. At a minimum, the rehearsal includes the pilot in command of each aircraft, the air mission
commander of each serial, the aviation task force S-3, and the aviation task force commander. Additional
requirementsaresetbythe air missioncommander.Topicsdiscussedshould include,but arenotlimitedto,
route deconfliction, bump plan execution, execution matrix, downed aircraft recovery procedures,
personnelrecovery,actionsoncontact,and pickupzoneandlandingzoneprocedures.
CONDITION CHECKS
9-43. Condition checks are coordination meetings conducted bythe AATF staff to update the AATFC on
thestatusofhowwellshapingoperationscreatetheconditionstoexecutetheairassault.Theseconditions |
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.