USMC

MCTP 3-01B

Air Assault Operations

U.S. Marine Corps

DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

PCN 147 000013 00

USMC
DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY
Headquarters United States Marine Corps
Washington, D.C. 20350-3000

22 February 2019

FOREWORD

Marine Corps Tactical Publication (MCTP) 3-01B, Air Assault Operations, describes how
infantry and aviation units plan and conduct air assault operations. MCTP 3-01B emphasizes
the coordination necessary between ground, air, combat support, and combat service support
organizations concerning the planning sequence and tactical employment of ground and
aviation elements. It describes the versatility of air assault operations and explains the tactical
fundamentals of air assault operations for ground-based operations once ashore.

MCTP 3-01B is intended for commanders, staff officers, and support units responsible for the
planning and execution of air assault operations. However, it should be read by any Marine
involved in the execution of air assault operations.

This publication does not contain information relative to amphibious operations. Air assault
operations in amphibious operations are discussed in MCTP 13-10E, Ship-to-Shore Movement,
and the Navy Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures 3-22.5 Tactical Pocket Guide series.

This publication supersedes MCTP 3-01B, Helicopterborne Operations, dated 16 August 2004.

Reviewed and approved this date.

BY DIRECTION OF THE COMMANDANT OF THE MARINE CORPS

D. H. BERGER
Lieutenant General, U.S. Marine Corps
Deputy Commandant for Combat Development and Integration

Publication Control Number: 147 000013 00

DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Air Assault Operations

Table of Contents

Chapter 1. Fundamentals

Sequence of Operations ..............................................................................................................................1-2

Tactical Considerations ..............................................................................................................................1-2
Command and Control................................................................................................................................1-4
Air Assault Forces Organization ................................................................................................................1-5
Task Organization Considerations..............................................................................................................1-5
Capabilities .................................................................................................................................................1-5
Limitations..................................................................................................................................................1-6
Vulnerabilities.............................................................................................................................................1-7

Chapter 2. Command and Control

Planning ......................................................................................................................................................2-1
Task Organization of the Marine Air Assault Task Force..........................................................................2-2
Decentralized Execution.............................................................................................................................2-6
Airborne Radio Nets ...................................................................................................................................2-6
Airborne Command and Control ................................................................................................................2-6
Mission Commander...................................................................................................................................2-7
Air Mission Commander ............................................................................................................................2-7
Assault Force Commander .........................................................................................................................2-8
Assault Flight Leader..................................................................................................................................2-8
Escort Flight Leader ...................................................................................................................................2-8
Assault Support Coordinator (Airborne) ....................................................................................................2-9
Tactical Air Coordinator (Airborne)...........................................................................................................2-9
Forward Air Controller (Airborne)...........................................................................................................2-10
Initial Terminal Guidance Teams .............................................................................................................2-10
Helicopter Support Team..........................................................................................................................2-11
Pickup Zone Control Officer ....................................................................................................................2-11
Marshalling Area Control Officer ............................................................................................................2-12
Subordinate Unit Commanders.................................................................................................................2-12
Command Post..........................................................................................................................................2-12
Combat Operations Center .......................................................................................................................2-12
Marine Air Traffic Control Mobile Team ................................................................................................2-13
Rear Area Operations ...............................................................................................................................2-13

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Chapter 3. Planning

Marine Air Assault Task Force Problem Framing .....................................................................................3-3

Mission.................................................................................................................................................3-4
Enemy ..................................................................................................................................................3-4
Terrain and Weather.............................................................................................................................3-6
Troops and Support Available .............................................................................................................3-7
Time Available.....................................................................................................................................3-7
Detailed Planning........................................................................................................................................3-8
Mission Commander’s Concerns in Planning the Air Assault.............................................................3-8
Assault Force Commander’s Concept of Operations...........................................................................3-8
Fire Support Plan..................................................................................................................................3-8
Landing Plan ........................................................................................................................................3-8
Air Movement Plan ..............................................................................................................................3-9
Loading Plan ........................................................................................................................................3-9
Staging Plan .........................................................................................................................................3-9
Ground Tactical Plan..........................................................................................................................3-12
Mission...............................................................................................................................................3-12
Ground Concept of Operations ..........................................................................................................3-12
GO/NO GO Criteria ...........................................................................................................................3-13
Insertion and Extraction Tactics.........................................................................................................3-13
Landing Plan ......................................................................................................................................3-14
Selection of Landing Zones ...............................................................................................................3-15
Landing Formations ...........................................................................................................................3-17
Supporting Fires .................................................................................................................................3-17
Landing Zone Diagrams.....................................................................................................................3-18
Air Movement Plan ............................................................................................................................3-18
Selection of Aircraft Ingress and Egress Routes................................................................................3-19
Ground Considerations During Assault Support Movement .............................................................3-19
Supporting Fires Along the Ingress and Egress Route.......................................................................3-20
Loading Plan ......................................................................................................................................3-20
Primary and Alternate Pickup Zones .................................................................................................3-21
Pickup Zone Criteria ..........................................................................................................................3-21
Pickup Zone Control ..........................................................................................................................3-21
Staging Plan .......................................................................................................................................3-25
Contingency Planning ........................................................................................................................3-25
Mission Briefing and Debriefing ..............................................................................................................3-27
Mission Brief......................................................................................................................................3-27
Air Assault Mission Briefing Guide ..................................................................................................3-27
Mission Debrief..................................................................................................................................3-28

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Chapter 4. Combat Operations

Section I. Air Assault Operations in the Offense ...................................................................................4-2

Types of Offensive Operations...................................................................................................................4-2
Movement to Contact...........................................................................................................................4-2
Attack ...................................................................................................................................................4-3
Exploitation ..........................................................................................................................................4-5
Pursuit ..................................................................................................................................................4-6
Forms of Maneuver.....................................................................................................................................4-6
Envelopment ........................................................................................................................................4-7
Turning Movement...............................................................................................................................4-7
Frontal Attack.......................................................................................................................................4-7
Penetration............................................................................................................................................4-8
Infiltration ............................................................................................................................................4-8
Flanking Attack....................................................................................................................................4-8
Control Measures........................................................................................................................................4-8
Section II. Air Assault Operations in the Defense .................................................................................4-9
Types of Defensive Operations ................................................................................................................4-10
Area Defense......................................................................................................................................4-10
Mobile Defense ..................................................................................................................................4-11
Retrograde ..........................................................................................................................................4-11
Section III. Air Assault in Support of Stability Operations ...............................................................4-12
Initial Response Activities........................................................................................................................4-12
Stability Activities ....................................................................................................................................4-13
Section IV. Air Assault in Support of Reconnaissance and Security Operations.............................4-13
Reconnaissance.........................................................................................................................................4-13
Security Operations ..................................................................................................................................4-13
Screen.................................................................................................................................................4-14
Guard..................................................................................................................................................4-14
Cover ..................................................................................................................................................4-15
Section V. Other Tactical Operations...................................................................................................4-15
Reinforcement of Committed Units..........................................................................................................4-15
Linkup Operations ....................................................................................................................................4-16
River Crossing Operations........................................................................................................................4-16
Rear Area Operations ...............................................................................................................................4-16
Night and Limited Visibility Operations ..................................................................................................4-17
Operations in a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Environment .....................................4-18

Chapter 5. Combat Support

Fire Support ................................................................................................................................................5-1

Fire Support Coordinator .....................................................................................................................5-2
Fire Support Delivery Means ...............................................................................................................5-2

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Fire Support Planning and Coordination ....................................................................................................5-2

Formal and Informal Planning .............................................................................................................5-3
Displacement of Fire Support ..............................................................................................................5-3
Enemy Air Defense Capabilities..........................................................................................................5-4
Fire Support Coordination....................................................................................................................5-4
Artillery Support of Air Assault Operations...............................................................................................5-5
Artillery and Other Support Systems Ranges ......................................................................................5-5
Target Importance ................................................................................................................................5-5
Airlift Assets ........................................................................................................................................5-6
Risk in Crossing Lines .........................................................................................................................5-6
Target Location ....................................................................................................................................5-6
Pickup Zones and/or Landing Zones....................................................................................................5-6
Ammunition .........................................................................................................................................5-6
Communications ..................................................................................................................................5-6
Security ................................................................................................................................................5-6
Capabilities...........................................................................................................................................5-6
Air Defense in Air Assault Operations.......................................................................................................5-7
Capabilities...........................................................................................................................................5-7
Planning Considerations.......................................................................................................................5-7
Assault Support Aircraft in Support of Air Defense Operations .........................................................5-8

Chapter 6. Combat Service Support

Helicopter Support Team............................................................................................................................6-1

Helicopter Support Team Organization ...............................................................................................6-2
Other MAGTF Support ........................................................................................................................6-2
Combat Service Support Planning..............................................................................................................6-3
Key Points ............................................................................................................................................6-3
Specific Points......................................................................................................................................6-4
Planning Considerations.......................................................................................................................6-4
Basic Load Versus Combat Service Support Buildup .........................................................................6-5
Combat Service Support Execution............................................................................................................6-6
Combat Service Support Trains ...........................................................................................................6-6
Supply ..................................................................................................................................................6-7
Maintenance .........................................................................................................................................6-7
Field and Personnel Support Services..................................................................................................6-7
Medical Support ...................................................................................................................................6-8
Casualty Evacuation.............................................................................................................................6-8
External Load Operations ...........................................................................................................................6-9
External Load Considerations ..............................................................................................................6-9
Elements of an External Lift Mission ................................................................................................6-10
Aviation Support Considerations..............................................................................................................6-11
Forward Arming and Refueling Points ..............................................................................................6-11
Aircraft Maintenance .........................................................................................................................6-11
Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel .....................................................................................6-11

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Chapter 7. Execution of Air Assault Operations

Movement From the Assembly Area to the Landing Zone ........................................................................7-1

Procedures in the Pickup Zone/Organization of the Pickup Zone..............................................................7-2
Infantry Movement to the Pickup Zone......................................................................................................7-2
Aircraft Movement to the Pickup Zone ......................................................................................................7-2
Lift-Off From the Pickup Zone...................................................................................................................7-3
En Route to the Landing Zone....................................................................................................................7-3
Security .......................................................................................................................................................7-4
Landing Operations ....................................................................................................................................7-4
Command and Control Aircraft ..................................................................................................................7-5
Landing Zone Preparatory Fires .................................................................................................................7-5
Landing Techniques....................................................................................................................................7-6
Completion of the Landing Zone Operation...............................................................................................7-7

Appendices

A Air Assault Training .....................................................................................................................A-1

B Small-Unit Leader’s Guide to Pickup Zone and Landing Zone Operations ................................ B-1
C Example of an Annex to Battalion SOPs for Air Assault Operations .......................................... C-1
D Billet Responsibilities During Air Assault Planning....................................................................D-1
E Landing Zone Brief ...................................................................................................................... E-1
F Assault Support Serial Assignment Tables ...................................................................................F-1
G Sample Air Assault Warning Order..............................................................................................G-1
H Air Assault Mission Planning Checklist.......................................................................................H-1
I Five Basic Plans for an Air Assault Operation.............................................................................. I-1
J Aircraft Availability Table ............................................................................................................ J-1
K Assault Support Landing Table ....................................................................................................K-1
L Aircraft Characteristics................................................................................................................. L-1
M Combined Arms Rehearsal......................................................................................................... .M-1
N Fire Synchronization Meeting ......................................................................................................N-1

Glossary

References and Related Publications

To Our Readers
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CHAPTER 1
FUNDAMENTALS

Air assault operations are a subset of airborne operations and a form of vertical envelopment in
which assault forces (combat, combat support, and combat service support [CSS]), using the
mobility of assault support assets and the total integration of combat power, maneuver under the
control of a ground or air maneuver commander to accomplish the designated mission. They are
best employed in situations that provide the force a calculated advantage due to surprise, terrain,
threat, or mobility. Air assault operations allow the commander to maneuver rapidly to achieve
tactical surprise and mass forces, regardless of obstacles, and without dependency on ground lines
of communication. These operations embody the combined arms concept through coordination
and planning between the air and ground commanders. Infantry and air units can be fully
integrated with other members of the combined arms team to form powerful and flexible Marine
air assault task forces (MAATFs). These forces can project combat power throughout the entire
depth, width, and breadth of the battlespace. The unique versatility and strength of a MAATF is
achieved by combining the capabilities of assault support aircraft—speed, agility, and firepower—
with those of the infantry and other combat arms to form task-organized MAATFs that can be
employed across the range of military operations. Specifically, a MAATF combines aviation
assets, assault force units, and supporting units for use in air assault operations.

Air assault operations are not merely the movement of Marines, weapons, and material. They are
deliberate, precisely planned, and aggressively executed combat operations that allow friendly
forces to strike over terrain barriers in order to attack the enemy when and where the enemy is
most vulnerable.

Note: Air assault operations are not air movement operations, which are the
air transport of units, personnel, supplies, and equipment without engaging
enemy forces or seizing and holding key terrain.

The capability to execute air assault operations dramatically expands the ability of the Marine
air-ground task force (MAGTF) commander to maneuver beyond the organic capabilities of the
ground combat element (GCE). This greater maneuver area provides the commander greater
tactical flexibility in conducting all manner of operations within their area of operations.

The speed and mobility of assault support aircraft allows the MAGTF to create greater operational
tempo than the enemy. The ability to maneuver rapidly—and deeply—allows friendly forces to
seize and maintain the initiative, dictate the tempo of operations, and maneuver to positions of
advantage over distances that would otherwise be impossible to traverse as quickly. The assault
support aircraft’s flexibility and versatility permit the ground commander to reduce time and
distance limitations normally encountered in the ground movement of troops; although, air
assault training (see app. A) is required to fully maximize these capabilities.

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SEQUENCE OF OPERATIONS
An air assault operation generally takes place in the following sequence:

• Planning.
• Briefing.
• Loading.
• Air assault.
• Landing.
• Tactical ground operations.
• Sustainment.
• Ground linkup/air reposition.

TACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS
In addition to utilizing the tactical fundamentals of ground combat, air assault operations also
apply the following tactical considerations:

• MAATF is assigned missions that take advantage of its superior mobility.

• MAATF fights as a combined arms team.
• Planning must be centralized and detailed.
• Execution must be aggressive and decentralized.
• Typically, air assault forces are light infantry without tactical mobility. For this reason, it is
important that the force be landed on or near the objective. If heavy-lift helicopters are
available in sufficient quantity to support the movement of mobility or fire support assets,
consideration can be given to landing away from the objective.
• Air assault forces may operate independently or in conjunction with other ground forces.
• The mission commander determines the composition of the assault wave. Ideally, the air assault
force should be able to overmatch enemy forces likely to be immediately present and be able to
amass combat power faster than those enemy forces are able respond.
• Assault support aircraft are an excellent means of tactical deception. When possible, assault
support aircraft can make demonstration landings in several different zones during one flight to
deceive the enemy as to the true objective of an operation.
• Air assault attacks are typically launched against undefended or lightly defended objectives. If
attacking a well-defended objective, planners must select landing zones (LZs) that are nearby
and support a safe landing of the force while adequately suppressing enemy defenses.
• Air assault forces are vulnerable to attack helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft, surface-to-air
missiles, and air defense artillery. To counter this vulnerability, fixed-wing and/or rotary-wing
aircraft escort the air assault forces and use indirect fires to suppress or neutralize enemy
defenses. Suppression may also be conducted by electronic attack.

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• During a landing, air assault forces are especially vulnerable and may be disorganized for a
short time; therefore, pre-mission rehearsals are critical to mission success.
• Air defense weapons are employed to counter enemy antiair capabilities.
• Air assault forces must be resourced to hold until relieved. In linkup operations, the air assault
force is normally the stationary force.

The increased mobility of an air assault force allows the commander to extend the area of
influence. But when conducting such operations far from other friendly forces, the following risks
must be considered:

• Greater exposure to enemy ground fire and enemy aircraft.

• Possible loss of surprise.
• Increased vulnerability to enemy counterattacks.
• Decreased ability to conduct effective sustainment.
• Increased risk to communications.

To execute successful deep air assault operations, the following must exist:

• Detailed analysis of the objective area and persistent intelligence collection.

• Ability of the air assault force to move securely to the objective area from the LZs.
• Ability to execute the mission without ground lines of communications.
• Ability to provide effective aerial combat support and CSS.
• Ability to withdraw forces if required.
• Coordination is required between ground and air assault units involved in an air assault
operation; therefore, rehearsals are critical to mission success. At a minimum, communications
and actions in the pickup zones (PZs) and LZs are rehearsed.
• Command and control (C2) is tailored for the assigned mission. Ideally, the air mission
commander (AMC) and mission commander are collocated in a C2 platform. This collocation
may not always be possible depending on the mission.
• Due to the range of air assault operations, the use of airborne relay and C2 platforms must be
considered, and the communications plan must be simple, redundant, and fully integrate all
elements of the force. See Marine Corps Reference Publication (MCRP) 3-30B.2, MAGTF
Communications System, for a description of MAGTF radio nets that can be used to provide
the needed C2 links for the air assault force.
• Small-unit tactical integrity should be maintained throughout an air assault operation.
• Fire support planning must provide for suppressive fires along flight routes and in the vicinity
of LZs. The suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD) must be a priority for fires. Fire support
assets of all types must be positioned and postured accordingly.
• Air assault forces are most effectively employed in environments where limited lines of
communications are available to the enemy, terrain limits the use of heavy ground forces,
and where the enemy lacks air superiority and effective air defense systems.

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When infantry units conduct air assault operations, the assault force commander (AFC) must
determine the disposition of unit vehicles, attached vehicles, and support vehicles. Vehicles
may be—

• Flown in with the air assault force.

• Flown in subsequent to the arrival of the air assault force.
• Driven in by ground mobile elements of the air assault force subsequent to the initial assault.
• Attached to another ground unit (e.g., a linkup force) for movement to the objective area.
• Left in the assembly area until the air assault force returns.
• Staged in position to provide support for the air assault force or adjacent units.

Note: See appendix B for the small-unit leader’s guide to tactical

PZ/LZ operations.

COMMAND AND CONTROL

Air assault operations require close coordination between the commander of the ground unit to be
lifted and the AMC. The AMC is an experienced naval aviator, typically operating from an
aircraft, who directs airborne coordination and control of air assault operations. When no AMC
has been designated, the assault flight leader (AFL) performs this function. The following
coordination measures enhance command and control of air assault operations:

• Coordination begins at the earliest opportunity in the planning phase of the operation.
• When possible, the mission commander and AMC are collocated, normally via a C2 aircraft,
during the air movement and initial stages of the landing.
• The AMC’s primary responsibility is to coordinate the air movement of personnel and
equipment into designated LZs. The AMC supports the ground commander’s concept of
operations (CONOPS).
• While the air movement phase is primarily the responsibility of the AMC, the ground
commander must be prepared to recommend primary and alternate approach and retirement
lanes. The ground commander must confirm the proper LZ.
• It may become necessary to shift from primary to alternate LZs or to alter the course of flights;
therefore, the authority to change to an alternate LZ must be established as soon as LZs are
selected. The shifting of an LZ or approach and retirement lanes usually impacts both the
current operation and other operations. When the use of either LZ will not affect the scheme of
maneuver or plan of supporting fire of adjacent units, the AFC, in coordination with the AMC
or AFL, may be delegated the authority to use the alternate LZ to exploit a tactical advantage or
to improve the ground situation. If the use of a selected LZ will affect adjacent or higher units,
this authority cannot be delegated below the highest unit affected.

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AIR ASSAULT FORCES ORGANIZATION

The organization of forces may include some or all of the elements of the MAGTF.

Note: Throughout the remainder of this publication, the term MAATF

will include GCE, aviation combat element (ACE), logistics combat
element (LCE), and command element forces used to conduct air assault.

Since task organization is essential in the conduct of air assault operations, the air assault force,
as a part of the MAGTF, is an integrated force tailored to a specific mission under the command
of a single commander. Typically, the MAGTF commander directs the formation of an MAATF
and designates a mission commander. The AMC, escort flight leader (EFL), AFL, and AFC
are subordinate to the mission commander. To exploit opportunities offered by an MAATF,
commanders and leaders must understand the principles upon which the MAATF was organized
and its intent of employment.

TASK ORGANIZATION CONSIDERATIONS

Planners must consider the following during task organization of the air assault force:

• Availability and allocation of aviation assets.

• Task organization should be determined and announced early in the planning process; it should
be included in the warning order.
• The air assault force provides sufficient combat power to seize initial objectives and protect
LZs. The MAATF is normally comprised of a command element, an assault element, a support
element, a security element, and a reserve element.
• The air assault force requires a mission-specific balance of mobility, combat power, and
sustaining power.
• The ability of the air assault force to arrive intact at the LZ (providing en route security
throughout the entire flight route and during actions on the objective) and to facilitate follow-
on operations.
• Combat support elements are normally placed in direct support to the air assault force to ensure
close coordination and continuous, dedicated support throughout an operation.

CAPABILITIES
An air assault force provides commanders with unique capabilities. No other ground force on the
battlefield can respond to a tactical situation and move considerable distances as quickly as an air

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assault force. It can extend the battlespace, move with great agility, and rapidly concentrate
combat power. Specifically, air assault forces can—

• Attack enemy positions from any direction.

• Overfly or bypass barriers/obstacles and strike objectives on otherwise inaccessible areas.
• Conduct offensive operations beyond the forward line of own troops (FLOT) or line of contact.
• Conduct defensive, reconnaissance, and security operations to the front and flanks and within
the defensive sectors of supported ground forces.
• Rapidly concentrate, disperse, or redeploy to extend the area of influence.
• Serve as the reserve to conduct the decisive action or to exploit opportunities. Rapidly place
forces at tactically decisive points in the battle area.
• React to rear area threats.
• Rapidly secure and defend key terrain such as crossing sites, road junctions, or bridges.
• Bypass enemy positions.
• Achieve surprise.
• Conduct operations under adverse weather conditions and at night to facilitate tactical
deception and surprise.
• Increase the operational tempo of friendly operations.
• Conduct economy of force operations over a wide area.
• Rapidly reinforce/sustain committed units.

LIMITATIONS
An air assault force is light and mobile, and it relies on assault support throughout the operation.
As such, it may be limited by—

• The success or failure of shaping operations.

• Severe weather and winds.
• Extreme temperatures or altitudes.
• Reliance on air lines of communications.
• Enemy aircraft, air defense, and electronic warfare (EW) action.
• Vulnerability to heavy enemy units and/or the enemy’s ability to rapidly mass combat power.
• Reduced ground mobility once inserted.
• Availability of suitable LZs and PZs.
• Available chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) protection and
decontamination capability.
• Reduced vehicle-mounted antitank weapon systems.
• Battlefield obscuration.

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• High fuel and ammunition consumption rates.

• Limited accessibility to supporting arms, especially indirect fires.

In addition, the range of an aircraft is limited by a number of factors to include the amount of
fuel onboard an aircraft, the speed at which an aircraft flies, and ambient conditions (e.g., wind,
temperature, altitude) in the absence of refueling. During air assault planning, planners should
account for the lift requirements of the air assault, how many waves will be required to
accomplish the lift, the distance between the PZ and LZ, any other tasks that the air assault
aircraft must accomplish in the sortie, and then factor in a reserve amount of fuel. A lift, in
this context, is all the assault support aircraft assigned to a particular mission to move troops,
supplies, and equipment.

VULNERABILITIES
Air assault forces use the assault support aircraft to move and close with the enemy. Initial air
assault elements must be light and mobile; therefore, they are often separated from heavy weapon
systems, supporting arms, equipment, and materiel that provide protection and survivability on the
battlefield. An air assault force is particularly vulnerable to—

• Attack by enemy air defense weapon systems during the movement phase.
• Attack by CBRN systems, because of limited CBRN protection and decontamination.
• Attacks (ground, air, or artillery) during the loading and unloading phases and at other times
when infantry is not dug in.

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CHAPTER 2
COMMAND AND CONTROL

Command and control is “the exercise of authority and direction by a properly designated
commander over assigned and attached forces in the accomplishment of the mission,”
according to the DOD Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms (hereafter referred to
as the DOD Dictionary). Since the battlespace over which the air assault forces operate
may extend beyond the typical battlespace of a company through a regimental-sized force,
operational command and control must be given special considerations.

The decision to employ air assault forces provides the MAGTF commander a unique capability
to project forces quickly over greater distances to shape and extend the battlefield. Due to the
distances in which air assault forces can operate, the MAGTF commander and the MAGTF
commander’s staff, in conjunction with the ACE planning staff, give special consideration to
all aspects of command and control. During problem framing, the staffs work to develop
command relationships that are critical to meeting the MAGTF commander’s intent for the air
assault. A critical outcome of this shared planning responsibility is the design, integration, and
interoperability of C2 systems that will facilitate the MAGTF commander’s ability to command
the assault effectively. The MAGTF commander may provide this guidance to the staffs during
problem framing or later in course of action (COA) guidance, which is a critical element in the
staff’s ability to develop suitable COAs.

PLANNING
Command and control of air assault operations must be planned in great detail, well-briefed,
and rehearsed before execution so that each subordinate leader knows exactly what is expected,
understands the commander’s intent, and understands the end state of the mission. Contingency
plans are built into all aspects of execution to provide for the continuation of the mission during
decentralized execution and in a changing operational environment.

Typically, detailed planning for air assault operations is based upon the use of time driven and/or
event driven actions. Time driven actions occur at specific times. Event driven actions occur
relative to each other.

For example, a time driven action is the firing of an LZ artillery preparation fires being delivered
from L-hour minus 5 minutes to L-hour minus 1 minute. Artillery preparation fire is delivered
before an attack with the intent to disorganize an enemy’s defense and disrupt the enemy’s
communications. If previously planned, this can be executed despite degraded communications.

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An example of an event driven action is the insertion of one company into the alternate LZ if the
lead company makes enemy contact on the primary LZ. If previously planned, this event occurs as
expected and without the need for lengthy radio communications.

The MAGTF commander addresses C2 requirements and establishes an effective C2 system early
in the planning phase. An effective airborne C2 system allows the MAGTF commander to direct
diverse, widely dispersed air and ground elements between the initial PZ and the final objective.
Since air assault operations are subject to degraded communications due to the extended distance
from which they operate, the MAGTF commander must develop a C2 plan and system that allows
execution of the mission despite degraded radio communications. The key to successful air assault
command and control lies in effective task organization, precise planning, decentralized
execution, and the use of airborne radio nets. See chapter 3 for detailed planning information.

An airborne C2 system must communicate orders, coordinate support, and provide direction
to the air assault force in spite of great distances, enemy interference, and the potential loss of
key facilities and individuals. Above all, this system must function quickly and effectively, thus
allowing the air assault force to receive and process information and to make decisions faster than
the enemy. An effective airborne C2 system includes the procedures, facilities, equipment, and
personnel required to gather information, make plans, communicate changes, and control all
ground and air elements in pursuit of the objective.

TASK ORGANIZATION OF THE MARINE AIR ASSAULT TASK FORCE

All assets must be tailored into discrete, task-organized elements, each with two-way radio
communications, unity of command, clearly defined missions and objectives, and provisions
for maintaining unit integrity throughout the operation. An effective task organization, with
each element having clearly defined mission-type orders, allows the MAATF the flexibility to
decentralize execution and ensures mission success despite degraded communications, the fog
of battle, or unexpected enemy reaction.

Task-organized MAATFs conduct air assault operations. This task organization involves organizing
both ground and aviation assets and requires coordination, planning, and execution between both
the ground commanders and the aviation commanders to execute the ground tactical plan.

Note: Normally there is only one ground element in an air assault

operation, although units may be landed in different locations.

The force is normally structured around an infantry unit and can vary in size from a reinforced
infantry rifle, weapons, or provisional company to a regimental landing team. The MAATF is
normally part of a MAGTF and is designed to accomplish a specific mission.

The MAGTF commander normally directs the formation of an MAATF and allocates dedicated air
resources. The MAGTF commander designates and assigns the mission commander. The mission
commander allocates assets and defines authority and responsibility by designating command and

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

support relationships. The mission commander ensures that ground operations are conducted
according to the MAGTF commander’s intent and assists the MAGTF commander in integrating the
air assault operation into the overall operational plan. Combat support and CSS are task-organized
to provide the full range of support necessary to accomplish the air assault mission. Commanders
supporting the air assault operation ensure that support operations are conducted according to the
needs of the total air assault force, to include both ground and supporting aviation units.

Aviation support is task-organized to fully support all facets of the air assault operation. Aviation
support includes all or a portion of the six functions of Marine aviation in varying degrees, based
on the tactical situation and the air assault force’s mission. The designated AMC ensures that all
supporting operations are executed in a manner that best supports the ground tactical plan. An
MAATF exists until completion of a specific mission. The MAGTF commander, or designated
mission commander, establishes the criteria that constitute mission completion under which the
aviation elements can return to their parent unit.

See table 2-1 for the specific organization, roles, and missions for task organization.

Table 2-1. Organization, Roles, and Missions for Task Organization.

Asset Organization Role Mission
Infantry Units typically form Operate under the control of the AFC As directed by the MAATF mission
nucleus of MAATF in direct support role to the MAATF commander
Units range
from reinforced
infantry company
through regimental
landing team
Units must prepare to
assume air assault
missions
Assault One or more Operate under the control of the AMC Combat assault transport providing
support squadrons support in a direct support role to the MAATF tactical mobility for troops, equipment, and
aircraft the MAATF weapon systems by internal and external
load
Aerial resupply by internal and
external load
Recovery and evacuation of equipment
Casualty evacuation or other
air evacuation
Dedicated or immediate TRAP

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Table 2-1. Organization, Roles, and Missions for Task Organization. (Continued)
Asset Organization Role Mission
Attack Task-organized Operate under the control of the AMC Fire support against point targets
aircraft in a direct support role to the MAATF and/or anti-armor operations
(e.g., air interdiction, close air support)
Armed escort for assault support
operations
SEAD artillery and other weapons during
and en route to insertions and/or extractions
Observation of the LZ and objective
areas to neutralize enemy resistance and
to block enemy attempts to reinforce the
objective area
Escort for TRAP forces and/or security for
downed aircraft
Armed and visual reconnaissance
Fire support and coordination and
terminal control for supporting
arms FAC(A)
Utility Task-organized Operate under the control of the AMC Enhance C2 and communications
aircraft in a direct support role to the MAATF capabilities for the MAATF
Fire support against point targets (close air
support)
Armed escort for assault support
operations
Observation of the LZ and objective areas
to neutralize enemy resistance and to
block enemy attempts to reinforce the
objective area
Escort for TRAP and security for downed
aircraft
Armed and visual reconnaissance
Fire support coordination and terminal
control for supporting arms FAC(A)
Unmanned Task-organized Operate under the control of the AMC Reconnaissance of PZs, flight routes, LZs,
aircraft in a direct support role to the MAATF and objectives
systems Forward observation (or all around)
of ground forces to provide limited
early warning
Artillery fire Units range from Operate under the control of the Disruption of threat artillery/indirect fires
support artillery batteries to mission commander in a direct SEAD along flight routes and in the vicinity
artillery battalions support or attached role to the MAATF of LZs
Provide rapid response capability to LZ preparation
prepared LZs and objectives
Screening fires
Provide suppression of enemy
Deception fires
artillery and air defense fires
Artillery raids/aerial repositioning
FASCAM delivery
Objective preparation and/or suppression

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Table 2-1. Organization, Roles, and Missions for Task Organization. (Continued)
Asset Organization Role Mission
Air defense Task-organized low Operate under the control of the Air defense of high value locations
altitude air defense mission commander in coordination including PZs, LZs, objective areas,
assets with the AMC in a direct support or FARPs, and holding sites
attached role to the MAATF Direct fires for ground defense
Equipped with light, air-transportable,
short-range, man-portable air defense
systems in order to fly with the lead
assault elements and provide
protection in the objective area
Engineers Units range from Operate in a direct support role to Construction and improvement of PZs
platoon through the MAATF (typically, engineers and LZs
company are attached to infantry units during Construction of expedient countermobility
unit movement, but revert to general obstacles using natural materials and
support once communications with demolitions
parent headquarters are reestablished)
Construction of firing positions
Organize to move with the infantry
Clearance of obstacles/minefields
and provide mobility, countermobility,
and survivability construction Conduct of assault and covert breaches
equipment Combat
Provide light engineering support if
heavy-lift helicopters are available
Electronic Task-organized Provide EW planning and operations Electronic attack
warfare support to the MAATF Disruption of enemy C2 and
communications
Degradation of enemy fire support and air
defense radio nets
EW support
Reserve Task-organized Provide reinforcement or assumption As required
elements of another unit’s mission
LCE Task-organized Provide mission-specific support to As directed by the MAATF mission
the MAATF throughout the operation commander
Legend
FAC(A) forward air controller (airborne)
FARP forward arming and refueling point
FASCAM family of scatterable mines
TRAP tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel

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DECENTRALIZED EXECUTION
Although it is centrally planned, the execution of an air assault operation is decentralized.
Subordinate commanders are given the maximum possible freedom of action that is consistent with
safety and mission accomplishment considerations to ensure the accomplishment of the mission.

AIRBORNE RADIO NETS

Radio nets that facilitate ground-to-ground, air-to-air, and ground-to-air communications are
established to provide for the timely flow of information and redundancy in capability. This helps
reduce, if not eliminate, the loss or degradation of communications.

AIRBORNE COMMAND AND CONTROL

The ability to place command and control in the air allows the mission commander to personally
influence the operation, communicate with subordinates, and arrive at a timely decision. The
mission commander and the mission commander’s staff are positioned where they can best
support the mission and, sometimes, this may be airborne in a C2 platform with the AMC, or
in an assault support aircraft with the AFL. In a large air assault operation with multiple LZs,
subordinate commanders may also require C2 aircraft to control and coordinate their units.
Airborne C2 also allows the mission commander and staff to update plans, conduct collaboration,
and receive the latest intelligence while en route to the mission area.

Typically, the mission commander commands from an airborne C2 platform during the air
movement phase and the initial stages of the landing. When a major portion of the assault
elements have landed, the mission commander displaces to a forward command post on the
ground. The mission commander should avoid routinely controlling ground operations from the
air. This can lead to over-supervision of subordinate units and can sometimes give an inaccurate
picture of the true tactical situation. Appendix C summarizes the essential items included in the
planning phase of air assault operations.

Characteristics of an effective airborne C2 platform include—

• Robust and redundant communications suite.

• Tactical chat capability.
• Extended time on station (TOS).
• Collocation of the mission commander and AMC.
• Placement allowing the ability to control fires employment, command and control, and commit
the reserve forces effectively.

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• Ability to collaborate and exchange C2 data beyond line-of-sight, uninterrupted, with higher
headquarters while en route to the mission area.
• Digital connectivity and ability to exchange data between the mission commander and leaders
aboard various airborne platforms.

The KC-130, MV-22, and UH-1Y are ideally suited to provide the characteristics listed above.
The CH-53 may also provide some C2 capability. With these increased capabilities, the
commander has the ability to maximize communications, increase situational awareness,
and to insert directly into the battle, if desired.

MISSION COMMANDER
The MAGTF commander allocates assets, defines both authority and responsibility by designating
command and support relationships, and designates the time that the MAATF is established. The
MAGTF commander may designate a mission commander or may be the mission commander,
depending on the scope of the air assault operation. The MAGTF commander usually designates a
mission commander for the MAATF.

The mission commander exercises command via the established command and support
relationships, is responsible for the planning and execution of all aspects of the assigned mission,
and determines when the MAATF is disbanded.

For a MAATF regiment, the mission commander may designate the commanding officer of the
main effort as the AFC or may designate each of the battalion commanders as subordinate mission
commanders. This provides a standard, yet flexible, C2 architecture that is scalable and meets the
requirements for any mission or contingency for which an MAATF might be employed. The role
of the mission commander is to ensure a unity of command throughout the operation.

AIR MISSION COMMANDER

The AMC is the Marine aviator designated by the commander of the aviation unit tasked to
support an air assault operation. Depending on the size and scope of the MAGTF, the AMC may
also be the ACE commander. In some cases, the mission commander exercises tactical control of
assigned aviation assets; that is, the mission commander may direct and control the movements or
maneuvers necessary to accomplish missions or assigned tasks. During the planning phase, the
AMC is coequal to the AFC. During execution, specific authority is delegated from the mission
commander to the AMC. The AMC typically works in direct support of the mission commander
and answers directly to the mission commander’s requests for assistance and support. The
supported-supporting relationships and the means by which they are executed are critical to
mission success; therefore, the AMC must have a detailed understanding of the command and
support relationships with key subordinates (e.g., AFL, EFL). The AMC is responsible for the
planning and execution of all aviation functions relative to the assigned air assault mission;

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therefore, the AMC must be an experienced aviator. It is the AMC’s responsibility to establish
liaison with the mission commander and AFC (the commander responsible for the ground tactical
plan) in order to conduct concurrent and parallel planning. The AMC shall assume the duties of
the assault support coordinator (airborne) (ASC[A]) of a mission if no ASC(A) is assigned.

ASSAULT FORCE COMMANDER

The AFC is a ground officer who has been designated by the mission commander as the
commander of the air assault force:

• For a MAATF regiment, the AFC is either the main effort battalion commander or any battalion
commander as otherwise stipulated.
• For a MAATF battalion, the AFC is either the commanding officer of the main effort company
or any company commander as otherwise stipulated.
• For a MAATF company, the company commander is the AFC.

As such, the AFC is charged with planning and executing the ground tactical plan and with
coordinating aviation and any other support required to plan and execute the air assault mission.
The AFC’s unit composes the air assault force. Normally, there is only one AFC commanding a
single air assault unit, although there may be multiple lifts and landings. As in any operation, the
AFC must move in order to see the battlefield and to control the operation. Depending on the
situation, the AFC can be airborne during the movement and insertion phases. At other times,
the AFC fights the battle from a tactical command post deployed well forward. The AFC is
subordinate to the mission commander and coequal to the AMC during the planning phase.
During execution, specific authority is delegated from the mission commander to the AFC.

ASSAULT FLIGHT LEADER

The AFL is an experienced aviator in command of the assault support flight. The AFL reports to
the AMC and assists in the planning of flight routes, LZs, and all other facets of the air assault
mission that directly involve assault support aircraft. The AFL is subordinate to the AMC and is
coequal to the EFL during the planning phase. During execution, specific authority is delegated
from the AMC to the AFL. See appendix D for a checklist to assist with planning for each billet.

ESCORT FLIGHT LEADER

The EFL is an experienced aviator in command of the escort flight. The EFL reports to the AMC
and assists in the planning of LZ preparation, fire support planning, threat mitigation, and all other
facets of the air assault mission that directly involve attack aircraft. The EFL is subordinate to the

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AMC and is coequal to the AFL during the planning phase. During execution, specific authority is
delegated from the AMC to the EFL. The EFL duties include LZ preparation, establishment of LZ
landing criteria, initial terminal guidance (ITG), and procedural control of aircraft and fires in the
objective area.

ASSAULT SUPPORT COORDINATOR (AIRBORNE)

The ASC(A), an experienced aviator operating from an aircraft, is delegated the authority to
perform specific coordination and control functions of air assault operations and to provide
situational awareness to the air assault force during a specific evolution. Typically, the ASC(A)
provides information concerning—

• Weather along the approach and retirement routes and in the LZs.
• Observed enemy operations that may affect the MAATF mission.
• Changes to aircraft routes.
• Changes in the friendly situation.
• Employment of supporting arms, to include tactical air coordinator (airborne) (TAC[A])
activities.

The ASC(A) may directly support a mission commander or be employed as an extension of

the direct air support center (DASC) or amphibious air traffic control center (referred to as
AATCC) to coordinate assault support activities that do not warrant the assignment of a mission
commander. If employed as an extension of the DASC/amphibious air traffic control center,
these agencies assign specific functions to the ASC(A) (e.g., initial assaults, subsequent assaults).

The ASC(A) is also responsible for coordinating the activities of all aircraft in his/her assigned
area. If employed in conjunction with the TAC(A) or forward air controller (airborne) (FAC[A]),
and no mission commander is assigned, the relationship with the ASC(A) is established by the
tactical air commander or a designated representative. When an ASC(A) has not been designated,
the AMC discharges the duties of the ASC(A) within the limits of his/her authority. To facilitate
timely and coordinated decisions affecting air assaults, the ASC(A) and a representative of the
AFC should be assigned to the same aircraft, if feasible.

TACTICAL AIR COORDINATOR (AIRBORNE)

The TAC(A) is an extension of the tactical air command center (referred to as Marine TACC)
or DASC and coordinates with the ground commander’s tactical air control party (TACP);
subordinate FAC(A); and the mortars, artillery, and naval gunfire shore fire control parties.
Normally, the TAC(A) is the senior coordinator having the authority over all aircraft operation
within the assigned area, depending on overall mission delegation of authority.

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FORWARD AIR CONTROLLER (AIRBORNE)

The FAC(A) is an extension of the TACP, and the FAC(A)’s primary function is the detection
and destruction of enemy targets through close air support (CAS) and deep air support (DAS).
The FAC(A) is assigned as either direct support of a ground unit or as a subordinate to the TAC(A)
or ASC(A) that provides air control as required. The FAC(A) must be prepared to perform the
following tasks within the assigned area of responsibility:

• Detect enemy targets for suppression, neutralization, and destruction.

• Terminal attack control for CAS missions.
• Radio relay.
• Perform strike coordination and armed reconnaissance SEAD coordination when directed.
• Control LZ preparations.
• Mark/designate targets, generate coordinates, and mark LZs for ITG.
• Control mortar, artillery, and naval gunfire missions when required.
• Battle damage assessment.
• Conduct visual reconnaissance.
• Report intelligence information to the appropriate ground or air control agency.

INITIAL TERMINAL GUIDANCE TEAMS

Initial terminal guidance teams from the force reconnaissance company or reconnaissance
battalion, Marine division, have the inherent capability to provide terminal guidance for the
initial air assault waves in the LZs. However, all ground units must be trained, equipped, and
capable of performing ITG for small air assault landings. The ITG teams are comprised of
personnel who are inserted into LZs in advance of the LZ control team and they may be the first
elements to make contact with the enemy. The ITG teams must be trained on assault support
aircraft capabilities and have an in-depth knowledge of LZ requirements needed by each assault
support aircraft by type/model/series (referred to as T/M/S). Additionally, ITG teams must be
able to communicate with fixed-wing aircraft in order to utilize sensors and pods on various
aircraft to provide effective ITG in the absence of ground marking ability due to enemy threat
or risk of compromise.

Therefore, ITG teams must promptly report any enemy activity that may influence the landing.
Initial terminal guidance teams execute pre-landing reconnaissance tasks and establish and
operate signal devices that guide the initial air assault waves from the initial point (IP) to the LZ.
The use of ITG teams may increase the difficulty or even prevent the use of LZ preparation fires
due to the presence of friendly troops in or around the LZ. Duties of the team may include—

• Determining obstructions in the LZs, including radiological hazards.

• Giving advance notice of enemy positions.
• Selecting PZs/LZs.
• Marking LZs for day and night.

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• Recommending use of alternate LZs.

• Controlling supporting arms.
• Recommending actions to be taken by follow-on waves.
• Organizing an area around the LZ to stage troops, equipment, or supplies to be picked up or
moved upon landing.
• Selecting an IP near the LZ.
• Establishing communications with the approaching flight.
• Giving an LZ brief (see app. E) to the flight leader.

HELICOPTER SUPPORT TEAM

The helicopter support team (HST) is task-organized and equipped for employment in PZs and LZs.
These teams facilitate the pickup, movement, and landing of air assault troops, equipment, and
supplies and the evacuation of selected casualties and prisoners of war (POWs). The team usually
includes a headquarters element, a helicopter control element, and an LZ platoon. The LZ platoon
provides logistic and engineer support functions. The helicopter control element consists of a LZ
control team provided by the ACE commander when necessary, and may include personnel to
provide refueling and emergency maintenance. The LZ control team may be task-organized from
the Marine air traffic control detachment when the size or scope of the operation warrants and the
MAGTF commander determines it is necessary. The Marine air traffic control detachment tasks
may include—

• Installing and operating air traffic control (ATC) and navigational systems required for the
control of aircraft at expeditionary airfields and remote landing sites (LSs).
• Providing ATC services that facilitate the safe, orderly, and expeditious flow of aircraft within
designated terminal/landing areas.
• Maintaining the capability to deploy independent ATC teams/units.

PICKUP ZONE CONTROL OFFICER

Typically, the mission commander or AFC designates a PZ control officer (typically the unit
executive officer [XO], forward air controller [FAC], or an air officer) from the supported unit
of each PZ. The PZ control officer organizes, controls, and coordinates operations in the PZ, to
include marshalling and loading of aircraft, vehicle movement, ammunition issue, food and water
distribution, and pushing elements out of the PZ. The PZ control officer operates on a designated
tactical net and is prepared to assist in executing needed changes. The PZ control officer is the key
individual during night operations or when multiple subordinate elements are being lifted from the
same PZ. The PZ control officer must be commensurate in rank based on the size of the air assault
operation being conducted. This ensures that all subordinate and supporting agencies take
guidance and direction from one single point of contact within the PZ, thus ensuring unity of
command at the PZ.

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MARSHALLING AREA CONTROL OFFICER

The marshalling area control officer (MACO) is subordinate to the PZ control officer during PZ
operations and is responsible for accountability of troops. Typically, the AFC or PZ control officer
will designate a unit first sergeant to act as the MACO. During planning, the MACO will be
involved with building the manifests and serials to produce the assault support serial assignment
table (ASSAT), an example of which can be found in appendix F. At the PZ, a MACO gate will be
established between the staging area and the aircraft loading area to ensure accurate accountability
and smooth execution of the loading plan. The MACO will assist aircrews with making sure the
correct serials go to the correct aircraft. If needed, the MACO will be integral in executing the
bump plan. The bump plan describes in detail which individuals and equipment in each designated
load or serial has priority. This plan is used when the means of transportation cannot carry all of a
particular load.

SUBORDINATE UNIT COMMANDERS

Subordinate unit commanders are attached to the AFC and normally function as they would in any
other combat arms task force. Each subordinate unit commander must be prepared to receive other
elements for movement.

COMMAND POST
The command post provides command and control for the execution of air assault operations. It
must be mobile and well forward, or have the capability to move rapidly on notice. It is normally
airlifted into the objective area soon after the initial waves. A C2 aircraft may serve as a command
post if enemy air defense systems have been suppressed and allow for an airborne C2 element to
be active.

COMBAT OPERATIONS CENTER

The combat operations center is normally established in the command post. It provides planning
for future operations and ongoing operations as directed by the commanding officer. Functions of
the combat operations center include—

• Monitoring current operations and maintaining current enemy and friendly situations.
• Collecting, processing, evaluating, and disseminating intelligence.
• Keeping higher and adjacent organizations informed of the friendly situation.
• Submitting recurring reports.

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• Providing liaison to higher and adjacent organizations.

• Establishing a fire support coordination center (FSCC).
• Coordinating combat support, aviation, engineer, and air defense.
• Advising the commander on the use of combat support for current and future operations.
• Monitoring airspace and coordinating supporting fires.
• Continuing planning for future operations and overseeing the preparation of all contingency
plans.
• Issuing combat/warning orders as necessary.

MARINE AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL MOBILE TEAM

A Marine air traffic control mobile team (MMT) is trained and equipped to provide initial rapid
response ATC, C2, and communications to support MAGTF and joint missions. The MMT can be
task-organized to provide ATC services for airfield seizures, noncombatant evacuation operations,
domestic or foreign humanitarian assistance operations, civil assistance operations, and other
short duration MAGTF/joint operations. The MMT is specifically trained and task-organized to—

• Provide ATC services at designated alternate LZs including formulating ATC procedures and
issuing ATC clearances, instructions, and advisories to effect safe, orderly, and expeditious
movement of air traffic in their assigned airspace.
• Recommend/assist in alternate LZ site selection. Determine each site’s operational suitability
for the number and type of aircraft.
• Conduct assault zone surveys to determine the suitability of the landing surface for operations,
annotate hazards to aviation (to include obstructions/obstacles), and provide operational data.
• Mark and light alternate LZs for tiltrotor, fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft.
• Provide and operate terminal navigational aids.
• Perform as a C2 and communications node by establishing communications and integrating
with higher and adjacent C2 agencies.

REAR AREA OPERATIONS

The rear area provides uninterrupted support to the force as a whole. Both operational level and
tactical level logistic operations occur within the rear area. Typically, the MAATF is not assigned
a rear area responsibility. Rather, it stages and launches from the rear area of its higher
headquarters. A portion of the LCE may be assigned to the MAATF and will likely collocate with
the logistic trains of this headquarters to facilitate the coordination of support to the MAATF.

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CHAPTER 3
PLANNING

The Marine Corps doctrinal philosophy of maneuver warfare describes planning as “an essential
and significant part of the broader field of command and control.” (Marine Corps Doctrinal
Publication [MCDP] 5, Planning.) The aim of command and control is to enhance the MAGTF
commander’s ability to make sound and timely decisions, which is critical in conducting air
assault operations. Effective decision making requires both the situational understanding to
recognize the essence of a given problem and the creative ability to devise a practical solution.
Hence, an essential function of planning is to promote understanding of the problem—the
difference between existing and desired conditions—and to devise ways to solve it. Planning
involves elements of both art and science, combining analysis and calculation with intuition,
inspiration, and creativity. The Marine Corps planning process (MCPP) is most appropriate for the
planning of air assault operations. It is also a six-step process, consisting of—

• Problem framing.
• COA development.
• COA war game.
• COA comparison and decision.
• Orders development.
• Transition.

If time does not allow use of the full, six-step MCPP, the MAGTF commander and the planners
may use the rapid response planning process, which is a time-constrained version of the MCPP.
The rapid response planning process enables the MAATF to plan and begin execution of certain
tasks within 6 hours and is highly dependent on the use of standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Because planning must support the MAGTF commander’s decision making—especially in a time
competitive and evolving situation—the MCPP codifies the central role of a commander in
planning. The process is applicable across the range of military operations and at any echelon of
command. It can be as detailed or abbreviated as time, staff resources, experience, and the
situation permits or requires. Planning begins when the AFC and AMC receive a mission from the
mission commander. If possible, the AFC and AMC should receive the mission together in order
to begin initial coordination and to facilitate concurrent/parallel, detailed planning. Additionally,
their collocation may also facilitate the issuance of warning orders to allow their staff and
subordinates to begin general planning.

It is the mission commander’s responsibility to make initial liaison with the AFC and AMC.
During the initial liaison, the mission commander gives the AFC and the AFC’s staff planning
data relative to the numbers and types of assault to be conducted. During planning, it is essential
that coordination among the mission commander, AFC, and AMC begin as soon as possible.
While the AFC and AMC must plan the operation together, the mission commander’s and AFC’s

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ground CONOPS drives all planning for the air assault operation. The company landing team is
generally the lowest level that has sufficient personnel to plan, coordinate, and control an air
assault operation. Unless task-organized to do so, the bulk of the planning and air-ground asset
coordination for company-sized operations will normally take place at the battalion headquarters.

The planning of air assault operations is a unique process that requires the development of five
basic plans with a reverse planning sequence: ground tactical plan, landing plan, air movement
plan, loading plan, and staging plan. These plans are not developed independently; they are
coordinated, developed, and refined concurrently by both the MAATF staff and aviation unit staff
to make best use of available time. The AFC directs the formulation of the ground tactical plan,
the loading plan, and the staging plan. The AFC and AFL work together to develop a landing plan
that supports the ground tactical plan. The AFL is principally responsible for formulating the air
movement plan. During planning of an air assault operation, one primary consideration for the
AFC and AMC is the enemy air defense situation. Other planning considerations include, but are
not limited to, sortie rates and aircraft types, availability, and capabilities.

To achieve the necessary, rapid buildup of combat power, an air assault operation requires the
massing of assault support aircraft. As a planning figure, a minimum of one third of the ground
unit should be landed in the zone in the first wave, but the actual combat power necessary for the
air assault force to maintain reasonable security should always be based on a detailed assessment
of the threat within the objective area.

The basis for planning the timing of the operation is L-hour: the time at which the first aircraft of
the first air assault wave touches down in the LZ. The air assault operations planning versus
execution sequence is displayed in figure 3-1.
Planning

Staging Loading Air Movement Landing Ground

Plan Plan Plan Plan Tactical
Plan

PZ LZ II

AA
PZ LZ
II
Execution
Reconnaissance PZ Selection Flight Planning LZ Considerations
Security PZ Control RP Locations Security
Guides PZ C2 C2 Control Measures Supporting Fires
C2 Movement Table Movement Table Orientation
Sequence Bump Plan SEAD C2 Formation
Defend PZ Sequencing Timings CSS
PZ Posture Refuel/Rearm Resupply/CASEVAC
Prepare Fires Flight Modes

LEGEND
AA assembly area
CASEVAC casualty evacuation
RP release point

Figure 3-1. Air Assault Operations Planning vs. Execution Sequence.

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MARINE AIR ASSAULT TASK FORCE PROBLEM FRAMING

Problem framing enhances understanding of the environment and the nature of the problem. It
identifies what the command must accomplish, when and where it must be done, and, most
importantly, why—the purpose of the operation. The purpose is articulated in the mission
statement (task and purpose). The purpose of the operation, which is enduring, is restated and
amplified as desired in the mission commander’s intent. Since no amount of subsequent planning
can solve a problem insufficiently understood, problem framing is the most important step in
planning. This understanding allows the mission commander to visualize and describe how the
operation may unfold, which is articulated in the mission commander’s CONOPS—the overall
picture of the operation. As planning continues, the commander’s CONOPS becomes more
detailed, providing additional clarity and operational context. Design does not end with problem
framing, because the situation constantly evolves and requires the commander to continually
review and possibly modify the design.

The following subparagraphs discuss parts of the problem framing process for the MAATF. Some
of these actions are required to initiate key actions and to keep the problem framing process in a
continual, progressive state based on the evolution of the operation, and some actions are options
for the commander to implement based on the tactical situation. Following receipt of the higher
headquarters’ mission, the MAGTF staff prepares and issues a commander’s orientation brief
based upon their initial estimates and immediate knowledge of the situation, operational
environment, civil considerations, and enemy. During problem framing, the MAATF planning
staff identifies and develops the—

• Mission statement.
• Commander’s intent.
• Commander’s planning guidance.
• Updated intelligence preparation of the battlespace (IPB) products.
• Specified tasks.
• Implied tasks.
• Essential tasks.
• Constraints (limitations).
• Restraints (must not do).
• Assumptions.
• Resource/subject matter expert shortfalls.
• Center of gravity analysis.
• Approved commander’s critical information requirements.
• Warning orders (see app. G).
• Planning schedule.
• Requests for information.
• Initial staff estimates.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

The standardization of operations between units planning the air assault significantly enhances the
ability of the unit to effectively accomplish the mission. This is commonplace within a Marine
expeditionary unit, but becomes more challenging with other units who do not share mutual
planning and operational space. See appendix C for a sample battalion SOP.

Information flow is critical to successful problem framing for an air assault operation as intelligence
gaps that require additional collection of resources are identified and updated. Information is
received from multiple headquarters, and all echelons provide information intended to reduce
the planning burden of subordinate units and increase their available time for adequate planning.

Air assault mission planning is unique and must consider specific threats to the success of the
air assault operation. The primary key to successful planning is the use of MCPP when suitable
time is available. At lower echelons, mission, enemy, terrain and weather, troops and support
available—time available (METT-T) analysis may be suitable for the particular mission when
larger staffs are not available to smaller scale units, such as company landing team missions.
The analysis of METT-T is a useful part of the problem framing process because it formulates
the design of the commander’s CONOPS and contributes significantly to the estimate of the
tactical situation for air assault operations. See appendix H for a mission planning checklist,
and appendix I for a guide to reverse planning.

Mission
Problem framing is conducted early in the planning process. The mission includes the critical
tasks that must be accomplished. The tasks are either specified tasks stated by the order or
implied tasks determined by the commander. Problem framing determines not only what must
be accomplished, but also the intent of the commander ordering the mission. It also states the
restraints and constraints placed on the mission by the higher headquarters. This analysis provides
the basis for task organization and must be conducted to determine if it is more advantageous to
strike with an air assault force or attack with a ground force. To analyze the mission, the following
questions must be asked:

• Does the mission require the rapid massing or shifting of combat power over an extended
distance?
• Does the mission require surprise?
• Does the mission require the flexibility, mobility, and speed afforded by vertical lift?
• Since air assault operations are inherently a high-risk operations that can yield a high payoff,
does the payoff warrant the risk?
• What is the level of training?

Enemy
The IPB process consists of four steps, which are performed, or at least considered, throughout the
operation to identify enemy threats to the MAATF. Each step in the process is performed or assessed
and refined continuously to ensure that the products of IPB remain complete and relevant, and that
the commander receives the required intelligence support during current and future operations. The

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

four steps of IPB, which are discussed in greater detail in MCRP 2-10B.1, Intelligence Preparation
of the Battlefield/Battlespace, are as follows:

• Define the operational environment.

• Describe the effects on operations.
• Evaluate the adversary.
• Determine enemy/adversary COAs.

Threat capabilities vary based on the enemy and the situation. However, there are basic threats to
air assault operations that will not change, and they are—

• Air defense fires, including small arms fires, must be identified and addressed by effective
suppressive measures, and increased emphasis placed on accurate and timely intelligence.
• Tiltrotor, fixed-wing, and rotary-wing aircraft capabilities and limitations within the area of
operations must be understood and measures taken to minimize the risk of encounter.
• EW capabilities, to include jamming, direction finding, and monitoring of communications/
radars, must be considered and appropriate countermeasures employed.
• Threat actions to counter PZ/LZ operations. (Analyze threat capabilities that could interdict
friendly PZs/LZs with ground forces, indirect fires, and aerial attack.)

Planners and commanders must constantly evaluate the threat in terms of the forms of contact
available to the threat force. Forms of contact include observation, indirect fire, direct fire (to include
air defense fires), obstacles, CBRN, air, reserve forces, and EW. Countering the threat requires
knowledge of enemy doctrine, tactics, and equipment, and the capability to find and exploit enemy
weak points with air assault forces. Intelligence preparation of the battlespace provides commanders
and planners with an analytical methodology that reduces uncertainty concerning the enemy, the
environment, and the terrain in order to determine and exploit enemy weaknesses.

The evaluation of the enemy defines the enemy’s capabilities and most probable COAs. The
following factors about the enemy must be considered:

• Identification: Who is the enemy?

• Location: Where is the enemy? Where is the enemy going?
• Disposition: How is the enemy organized? What are the enemy’s formations?
• Strength: What are the enemy’s strengths versus friendly forces’ strengths?
• Morale: What is the enemy’s experience and state of training? Is the enemy regular or
reserve forces?
• Capabilities: What forms of contact are available to the enemy? (e.g., obstacles, indirect
fires, direct fires, observation, CBRN, air, reserve forces, EW)
• Composition: What is the enemy’s armor, infantry (motorized or light), artillery, and
combat support?
• Probable COA: What is the enemy’s likely mission or objective? How will the enemy
probably achieve it? (Think about the most likely COA and most dangerous COA.)

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

When planning an air assault operation, the following factors about the enemy must be considered:

• Enemy air defense weapons and capabilities.

• Enemy mobility, particularly the ability to influence potential flight routes and LZs.
• Enemy CBRN capability, particularly the ability to react to the insertion.
• Capability to interdict or interrupt friendly aircraft movements with enemy tiltrotor, rotary-
wing, or fixed-wing aircraft.
• Enemy EW capability.

Terrain and Weather

In all military operations, terrain analysis is conducted by the criteria described in the memory
aid KOCOA (key terrain, observation and fields of fire, cover and concealment, obstacles, and
avenues of approach) and weather. In air assault operations, these factors must be analyzed in
relation to their effects on the force during movement to the PZ, loading, air movement, LZ
insertion, movement to the objective, and subsequent actions.

Weather can greatly impact an operation. Changes in the weather may result in an interruption of
assault support and require changes in planned operations. Considerations include—

• Fog, low clouds, heavy rain, and other factors that limit visibility for pilots.
• Illumination and moon angle during night vision device (NVD) operations.
• Ice, sleet, and freezing rain may cause ice accumulation on airframes, which can become
catastrophic.
• High temperatures and/or density altitudes that degrade aircraft engine performance and lift
capability.
• Darkness, which is normally an advantage to well-trained pilots and ground forces.
• High winds (large gust spreads).
• Weather conditions that create hazards on PZs and LZs, such as blowing dust, sand, or snow.

Key Terrain. The possession of key terrain provides a decided advantage to a force and, in many
instances, is mission-dependent. However, in air assault operations, key terrain is not limited to
that which influences the ground tactical plan. It must also be analyzed in terms of—

• PZs and LZs.

• Flight routes.
• Attack helicopter battle positions.
• Occupation of enemy positions, especially enemy air defense assets.
• Potential forward arming and refueling points (FARPs).

Observation and Fields of Fire. The following considerations relate to both enemy and
friendly forces:

• Visual observation and/or electronic surveillance of PZs, flight routes, and LZs.
• Enhanced observation provided by aerial and ground reconnaissance assets.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• Ease of navigation along flight routes particularly for night or adverse weather operations.
• Ability to influence the PZs, LZs, and flight routes with indirect and direct fire.

Cover and Concealment. The following considerations relate to the cover and concealment of
friendly forces:

• Terrain masking for low-level flight routes and insertions.

• Covered battle positions for attack helicopters.
• PZs and LZs that offer ground forces cover and concealment.

Obstacles. While assault support aircraft can bypass most obstacles, PZs and LZs must be free of
natural and/or manmade obstacles that could preclude an assault landing or affect the ground
tactical plan.

Avenues of Approach. Air and ground avenues of approach are considered in both offensive and
defensive operations, from both friendly and enemy viewpoints. A good avenue of approach for
an air assault force offers—

• A reasonable degree of mobility and few, if any, natural or manmade obstacles to the aircraft.
• Little or no canalization.
• Terrain masking that decreases effectiveness of enemy air defense weapons.
• Cover.
• Concealment.
• Good lines of communications and logistics. Ease of link up with other forces when appropriate.

Troops and Support Available

Troops and support available encompasses not only troops to be lifted into the objective LZ, but
also all combat power, to include combat support and CSS available to the air assault force. The
air assault force should have enough combat power relative to the threat to seize initial objectives
and protect the LZs until assault follow-on echelons arrive in the objective area. Aircraft lift
capability is the single most important variable in determining how combat power can be
introduced into the objective area.

Time Available
The time available to prepare for an air assault operation is extremely important. It is often the
scarcest resource and is vital to planning. The mission commander must adjust the planning
process to make optimum use of this perishable resource. When time is critical, the mission
commander’s intuition, judgment, and experience are invaluable in guiding the staff and
subordinate commanders. This planning must be coordinated between the GCE and the ACE.
The mission timeline should allocate one-third of available time to commanders in order to
issue guidance and reserve the remaining two-thirds of time available for subordinates to plan
and rehearse the mission. While the ACE is preparing its aircrews, servicing its aircraft, and
planning its flights, the GCE is also preparing for its mission. Once the GCE’s and ACE’s

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

concurrent planning is completed, these elements must be brought together for rehearsals,
especially if an unusual mission is being planned. The following must be considered:

• Allocating the time required to prepare, plan, and rehearse. Air assault planning must be
centralized and precise. It normally requires more time than other operations.
• Additional planning time may be required for night operations and those involving multiple
PZs and/or multiple LZs.
• The AFC must allow adequate time to ensure that all subordinates and support elements are
thoroughly briefed. Briefing time can be significantly reduced with SOPs and previous training.

DETAILED PLANNING
During detailed planning, the five basic plans are not developed independently (see app. I).
Each element involved in planning an air assault has specific considerations and requirements
to complete the mission. All are equally important and must be thoroughly understood.

Mission Commander’s Concerns in Planning the Air Assault

From the ground commander’s point of view, the plan of attack for an air assault operation
includes the mission commander’s CONOPS, fire support plan, landing plan, air movement
plan, loading plan, and the staging plan that are developed concurrently along with CSS plans—
all of which are closely integrated.

Assault Force Commander’s Concept of Operations

The AFC’s CONOPS is the tactical plan executed by a force in order to accomplish its assigned
mission once it has landed in the LZ. It includes objectives, LZs, forms of maneuver to be
employed, distribution of forces, and necessary control measures. The AFC must take into
account the time required for the air assault force to consolidate at the LZ and move to its
objective. The ability to secure the LZ and move to the objective must be compared to the
enemy’s ability to reinforce the threatened area.

Fire Support Plan

The fire support plan is the mission commander’s employment of all supporting arms to assist
in the accomplishment of the mission, including ground and aerially delivered fires. The plan
supports the CONOPS and includes plans for SEAD during the assault support aircraft ingress
and egress, preparation of the LZ, fires in support of the consolidation of the LZ, and fires in
support of the ground operation. The plan for supporting fires should also include the ACE’s
plans for employment of air defense weapons that may be required to support the mission. See
chapter 5 for more information on fire support planning.

Landing Plan
The landing plan is an airborne, air assault, or air movement plan prescribing the sequence, place
of arrival, and method of entry into the objective area. The purpose of the plan is to get the correct
units to the correct place in the correct order to properly execute the ground tactical plan, in
accordance with the AFC’s guidance.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Air Movement Plan

The air movement plan, prepared jointly by the ground and airlift units, covers an airborne, air
assault, or air movement operations from the time the units load the aircraft until arrival in the
objective area. The air movement plan provides for the control and protection of the air assault
force during the air movement. The air movement plan is primarily the responsibility of the AMC,
although the ground commander also contributes to its development. The air movement plan
includes the selection of approach and retirement lanes, control points, and en route SEAD and
the provisions for escort by attack helicopter or other aviation assets.

Loading Plan
The loading plan is designed to establish, organize, and control activities in the PZ, plan for the
movement of troops and equipment to the PZ, and establish the priority of loading units. For
battalions or larger, a written plan may be required. However, the requirement for written loading
instructions can be minimized by advanced planning and detailed unit SOPs. Regardless of its
simplicity, the loading plan must receive command attention during planning. The ultimate
success of the operation is directly related to a properly developed loading plan and subsequent
control of unit loading.

Staging Plan
The staging plan is based on the loading plan and prescribes the arrival time of ground units at
the PZ, their proper order for movement, and the organization at the PZ to facilitate aircraft loading.

Within the five basic plans, there are key planning products that are critical to mission success
during an air assault operation. Each planning product requires detailed attention by mission
planners. The responsibility for the production and dissemination of these products is as follows:

• The aircraft availability table (AAT) is primarily prepared by the ACE and then provided to
the GCE.
• The ASSAT is primarily prepared by the GCE and provided to the ACE.
• The assault support landing table (ASLT) is prepared predominantly by the ACE with some
GCE inputs.

Aircraft Availability Table. The AAT denotes aircraft that are available for air assault operations and
includes unit, aircraft type, availability by type, aircraft origin, deck launch capacity, troops and
cargo capacity, and any remarks relating to the air assault operation.

The AAT will greatly assist the mission planners in regards to asset management. Due to the size
and complexity of a battalion/regimental air assault operation, it is highly probable that assault
support assets will be sourced from several different ships or airfields.

The AAT should serve as the basis for constructing the ASLT and ASSAT. The AMC or AFL
provides the AAT to the AFC who, together with the AMC and AFL, establishes the number and
type of aircraft in each wave. See table 3-1, on page 3-10, for an example of the AAT. The AAT is
also available in a larger format in appendix J.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Assault Support Serial Assignment Table. The ASSAT assigns serials to personnel and equipment,
with weights, and includes the bump plan. In utilizing the ASSAT—

• Each line represents one serial.

• Each column contains information about the specific serial.
• The wave assignment will be determined in planning, but can initially be filled in by the AFC
as a representation of desired combat power build up.
• Weight information is critical for assault support fuel calculations. With weight information,
assault support pilots determine the power required versus the power available. This weight
and power planning is essential in ensuring that the ACE maximizes lift to support the GCE.
• All equipment, radios, crew-served weapons, and water jugs should be included. The assault
support crew will make the utmost effort to calculate an accurate weight of all Marines and
equipment.
• Serial size should be determined early in planning, with the maximum number of serials possi-
ble maintaining that size. Manageable sized serials are important if the bump plan is executed
so all serials can be reassigned to any type aircraft. Often the best size is six Marines, to allow
for placement of full serials or multiple full serials on UH-1Y, MV-22 and CH-53 aircraft.
• Unit leaders and crew-served weapons need to be tactically spread loaded.
• Each serial is assigned a number in accordance with unit SOP.
• The bump plan is developed by the AFC to set the priorities of serials. The bump plan typically
lists serials starting with lowest priority. This allows easy identification of the bump serials
during execution. Serials only have to be listed on the bump plan to the point that GO criteria is
still met.

Table 3-1. Example of an Aircraft Availability Table.

AIRCRAFT AVAILABILITY TABLE
Unit and Aircraft Deck
Designation Aircraft T/M/S Available Aircraft Origin Launch Capacity Troops Cargo Remarks

Notes:
Legend
T/M/S type/model/series

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

See tables 3-2 and 3-3 for examples of the ASSAT and the ASSAT bump plan, respectively.

Table 3-2. Example of an Assault Support Serial Assignment Table.

ASSAULT SUPPORT SERIAL ASSIGNMENT TABLE (ASSAT)

Supplies & Weight

Wave Serial Troop/Unit No. Equipment Personnel Equipment Total

Table 3-3. Example of an ASSAT Bump Plan.

ASSAULT SUPPORT SERIAL ASSIGNMENT TABLE (ASSAT) BUMP PLAN
Bump Plan
Wave in Order of Priority Description Notes

Assault Support Landing Table. The ASLT includes detailed plans for the movement of air assault
forces, troops, equipment, and supplies. It assigns serials to waves to LZs on a landing timetable,
which is used by the appropriate air control agency to control the assault support movement. See
appendix K for an example of the ASLT in large format. The ACE and GCE planners recommend
insert and extract LZs for the mission commander’s and AMC’s approval. The ACE and GCE
planners divide the ground force and create waves of aircraft sized to carry tactical units to
specific LZs. The mission commander and AMC approve the following recommendations:

• Each line on the ASLT should represent an aircraft’s trip during one single wave, with multiple
lines grouped together for each wave. Multiple serials may be assigned to an aircraft during a
single wave.
• Weights, troop/unit and equipment information from the ASSAT will be included on the ASLT
for reference during air assault execution.
• On call waves may be denoted with an “O/C” in the wave column and “TBD” [to be
determined] may be used for other unknown information.
• Priorities from the ASSAT can be denoted on the ASLT for use in execution of air assault
operations. Techniques for denoting priority serials include—
—Listing the priority aircraft/serials top down per wave.
—Putting an asterisk (*) next to the GO serials.
—Adding a priority column for each LS and wave.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

See table 3-4 for an example of an ASLT.

Table 3-4. Example of an Assault Support Landing Table.

ASSAULT SUPPORT LANDING TABLE (ASLT)
From Time Destination LZ Troops/Units/
Type Aircraft PZ/Ship/ Equipment/
Wave Serial Aircraft Origin Airfield Load Launch Land Primary Alternate Total Weight

Ground Tactical Plan

The foundation for a successful air assault operation is the AFC’s ground tactical plan. Normally,
the ground tactical plan is developed first and is the basis from which the other plans are derived.
The ground tactical plan specifies actions in the objective area that ultimately accomplishes the
mission. The plan also includes subsequent operations that can include linkup operations,
repositioning of the force, and sustainment. The ground tactical plan for air assault operations
contains essentially the same considerations as any other form of maneuver, except that it must
capitalize on surprise, speed, and mobility in order to achieve mission success. Although the
ground tactical plan is normally the basis from which all other plans are formulated, in certain
operating environments terrain limitations and restrictions will dictate where assault support
aircraft can land; therefore, the landing plan may have to become the focus of concern.

Mission
The most obvious portion of the air assault mission is the requirement to conduct a vertical
movement. The following concerns should be examined:

• Missions of all task force elements and methods of employment.

• Purpose of the air assault movement.
• Reason for using assault support aircraft.
• Task organization of ground, air, and combat support units.
• Number of Marines to be lifted.
• Total weight to be lifted.
• Internal and external loading.
• Approximate distance of the air movement.

Ground Concept of Operations

The ground CONOPS is formulated in five parts; the first two will normally be part of the staging
and loading plan, whereas only the last three are part of the ground tactical plan. The five parts of
the ground CONOPS are—

• Ground movement to the PZ.

• Securing and organizing the PZ. Include the task organization of the force and embarkation
plan for force aboard mission aircraft.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• Actions at and securing of the LZ.

• Ground movement from the LZ to the objective or actions on the objective, if the force is
landed directly on the objective.
• Operations subsequent to securing the objective.

GO/NO GO Criteria
During planning, mission GO and NO GO criteria must be set. GO criteria refer to the prerequisites
that need to be met, either equipment, personnel, or conditions prior to mission commencement
based on friendly disposition. Conversely, NO GO criteria are the prerequisites that need to be
met—equipment, personnel, or conditions—prior to mission commencement based on enemy
disposition and weather. All elements of the MAATF must make sure they have input to the
overall mission GO/NO GO criteria.

Example items that may be included in the GO criteria for an air assault operation may be the
minimum passengers for a mission from the GCE and, from the ACE, the confirmed
establishment of a FARP.

Examples of items that may be included in the NO GO criteria for an air assault operation may be
the presence of enemy armor on the objective from the GCE and the presence of effective enemy
radar weapons systems in the objective area from the ACE. The ACE will also be required to set
the weather conditions that preclude mission commencement from an aviation standpoint.

Insertion and Extraction Tactics

The proximity of the LZ to the air assault objective, as desired by the AFC and that the ground
tactical plan calls for, will determine the type of insert tactics. Insert tactics types are referred to
as X, Y, and offset.

An X insert is within 300 meters of the objective and, generally, in effective small arms range.
An X insert capitalizes on surprise through speed, but is the highest difficulty/risk. Mission
profiles requiring an X insert would include time-sensitive missions, such as targeting a high-
value individual, tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel (TRAP), or hostage rescue, where
significant ground movement would compromise the mission. Both rotary-wing and fixed-wing
CAS, as well as persistent intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), is recommended
for an X insert.

A Y insert is 300–1,000 meters from the objective and, generally, only within effective range of
medium/heavy weapons. A Y insert balances speed and threat mitigation because there is less
exposure to the enemy on insert to objective, but the enemy may have more time to react. A Y
insert may be used when closer LZs are not available, the threat cannot be mitigated for X inserts,
or to isolate/contain an objective. Rotary-wing CAS, fixed-wing CAS, and persistent ISR/
multisensor imagery reconnaissance (MIR) are recommended for a Y insert.

An offset insert is outside 1,000 meters from the objective and is, generally, outside effective
weapons range from medium/heavy weapons. An offset insert is the lowest level of difficulty/risk

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

and capitalizes on surprise through stealth if the LZ is outside of visual and audible compromise.
Offset inserts may be used for missions that are not time sensitive, when there are no tenable LZs
closer to the objective, or when the threat cannot be mitigated for a closer insert. Persistent ISR/
MIR and either rotary- or fixed-wing CAS are recommended for an offset insert.

Extract tactics are referred to with the same terminology, but do not have to match the insert
tactics in a given mission. A combination of X, Y, and offset may be used by different elements
of the MAATF, and each element’s extract may differ from its insert.

Both the GCE and ACE must conduct IPB in the vicinity of the LZ. An offset LZ may still
have a high threat level to aviation and ground assets even though it is displaced from the air
assault objective.

Landing Plan
The landing plan must support the ground tactical plan and heavily impacts the air movement
plan. The goal of the plan is to rapidly build up troops and equipment in the objective area with
units arriving at the right times and locations prepared to execute the ground tactical plan.
Appendix I provides more information. Considerations in developing the landing plan include—

• Overriding factors such as availability, location, size, and enemy proximity to potential LZs.
• The air assault force is most vulnerable during landing. The ACE planners must consider the
threat on ingress around the LZ and egress, even if the LZ is displaced from the objective.
• Troops and equipment must land with tactical integrity.
• Desired timing between landings of different assault elements. Normally, landing within
30 seconds constitutes a simultaneous landing, while all others will be sequential.
• To avoid disorientation, troops must be informed if changes occur in the landing directions
that were given during their initial brief.
• Initially, there may be no other friendly units in the area; therefore, the air assault force must
land prepared to fight in any direction.
• Initial forces in the LZ should plan to provide ITG to follow-on waves.
• The landing plan should offer flexibility so that a variety of options are available in developing
a scheme of maneuver.
• Supporting fires (i.e., artillery, naval surface fire support, CAS) must be planned in and around
each objective area LZ.
• Assault support aircraft defensive fires should be integrated with the overall fires plan for landing.
• Weapons status (free, tight, or hold) should be determined during planning, based on the enemy
situation. Sectors of fire are established based on friendly positions and should maximize
weapons employment. To the maximum extent possible, sectors of fire should be tied to prom-
inent, recognizable terrain features.
• Although the objective may be beyond the range of supporting artillery fire, artillery or mortars
may be brought into the LZ early to provide fire support for subsequent lifts on the objective.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• The plan includes provisions for TRAP, asset attrition, immediate re-embarkation, emergency
extract, resupply, and casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) by air.
• Additional detail can be planned by subdividing LZs into LSs and landing points. Landing
zones are named by a code word using bird names (e.g., LZ Bluebird) and can be subdivided
for different aircraft elements into LSs. Landing sites are names with colors (e.g., LZ Bluebird/
LS Black). Inside of an LS, individual aircraft’s desired landing locations can be denoted by
landing points, which are numbered for identification (e.g., LZ Bluebird/LS Black/Landing
Point 1).

Selection of Landing Zones

Landing zones are selected during planning between the AFC and the AFL in coordination with
the S-2. The selected LZs are approved by the MAGTF commander or mission commander.
Regardless of whether the site is a LZ or PZ—

• The ground chosen must support the safe landing of assault support aircraft.
• The selected site should be identifiable from the air.
• The enemy situation must be such that the site can be secured without undue interference from
enemy fires.

Each assault support aircraft requires a different size LZ/PZ, and each area needs to be on level
ground. Lighting conditions and visibility conditions also affect the size of the LZ for each
aircraft. Table 3-5 provides the recommended LZ diameters used for different types of aircraft.
Planned LZ sizes may vary based on more information and the size of aircraft flights. More
detailed information may be found in the most current aircraft Navy tactics, techniques, and
procedures (NTTP) publications.

Table 3-5. Recommended Landing Zone Specifications.

LZ Size in Feet
(Length x Width)
Single Section
Type Aircraft (2 Aircraft) Other Considerations
CH-53 200 x 300 300 x 400 Large rotor wash
MV-22 160 x 180 310 x 330 Large rotor wash
UH-1Y 75 x 75 150 x 150 Variety of missions and ordnance
AH-1 75 x 75 150 x 150 Narrow skids require flat, smooth surface
UH-60 100 x 100 200 x 200 Medical evacuation (unarmed)

Ideally, each LZ/PZ is as level as possible and free of major obstacles that might obstruct landings
or takeoffs (e.g., tall trees, telephone/power lines). Plans must be made to mark or identify
obstacles that cannot be removed in order to aid the aircrew’s ability to land the aircraft safely.
The ground itself must be firm enough to prevent bogging down; otherwise, aircraft may have to
hover during loading or unloading operations.

The site must be free of heavy dust, loose snow, logs, rocks, or dry grass.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Although level ground is preferable, some areas that can support an aircraft will not be level. As a
planning rule, LZs with slopes greater than seven degrees require additional consideration by the
AFL and AMC.

The LZ/PZ ingress and egress routes are chosen to ensure that takeoffs or landings can occur over
the lowest obstacles and that the direction is into the wind, with minimum crosswinds of 10 knots
and tailwinds of no more than 5 knots. Wind direction must also be considered in terms of its
effect on the dust created by the aircraft’s landing and takeoff.

The assault support aircraft must be able to ascend or descend vertically into the LZ/PZ when
fully loaded.

LZs are selected using the following criteria:

• The ground commander’s CONOPS.

• The LZs can be located on, near, or away from the objective, depending on the factors of
METT-T.
• The size determines how much combat power can be landed at one time; this also determines
the need for additional LZs or separation between waves.
• An alternate LZ should be planned for each primary LZ selected to ensure flexibility.
• Enemy troop concentration and air defenses and their capability to react to a nearby air assault
landing are considered when selecting LZs.
• The LZs deny enemy observation and acquisition of friendly ground and air elements while
they are en route to, in, and departing from the LZ.
• If possible, the air assault force should land on the enemy side of obstacles when attacking and
use obstacles to protect LZs from the enemy at other times.
• The LZs must be free of obstacles.
• The LZs should be readily identifiable from the air. When possible, reconnaissance units
should be used to reconnoiter and mark the LZ.
• Requirements for logistic support.
• Requirements for fire support.
• Available lanes to and from LZs and any restrictive effects on the employment of supporting
arms.
• Reduced visibility or strong winds may preclude or limit the use of marginal LZs.
• Single versus multiple LZs.

In addition to deciding where to land in relation to the objective, planners must address whether to
use single or multiple LZs. The advantages of a single LZ are as follows:

• Allows concentration of combat power in one location (if the LZ is large enough).
• Facilitates control of the operation.
• Concentrates supporting arms in and around the LZ. Firepower is diffused if more than one LZ
preparation is required.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• Provides better security during subsequent lifts.

• Requires fewer attack helicopters for security.
• Reduces the number of flight routes in the objective area, making it more difficult for enemy
intelligence sources to detect air assault operations.
• Centralizes any required resupply operations.
• Concentrates efforts of limited LZ control personnel and engineers on one LZ.
• Requires less planning and rehearsal time.

The advantages of multiple LZs are as follows:

• Avoids grouping assets in one location and thus avoids creating a lucrative target for enemy
mortars, artillery, and CAS.
• Allows rapid dispersal of ground elements to accomplish tasks in separate areas.
• Reduces the enemy’s ability to detect and react to the initial lift.
• Forces the enemy to fight in more than one direction.
• Reduces the possibility of troop congestion in one LZ.
• Eliminates aircraft congestion in one LZ.
• Makes it difficult for the enemy to determine the size of the air assault force and the exact
location of supporting weapons.

Landing Formations
Aircraft formations on the LZ should facilitate operational offloading and deployment. The
number and type of aircraft and the configuration and size of the LZ may dictate the landing
formation during the planning process. Because contact is expected in the LZ, troops are landed
ready to employ fire and movement. In order to reduce troop exposure, an LZ formation will not
maintain standard distances between aircraft and must land rapidly in a safe area as close to
concealment as possible.

Supporting Fires
The initial assault may be made without preparatory fires in order to achieve tactical surprise.
However, preparatory fires are planned for each LZ so they can be fired if needed. Preparatory
fires should be timed for maximum coordination with the L-hour to cover aircraft and debarking
troops during landing operations. Planned fires for air assault operations should be intense and
short, but with a high volume of fire to maximize surprise and shock. Supporting fires end just
before the first assault element’s landing. Fire support plans developed to support the landing plan
must address the following:

• False preparations fired into areas other than the objective or LZ.
• Loss of surprise due to lengthy preparations.
• Time, location, speed, and size of committed forces that affect the ability to achieve surprise.
• Based on the allocation of fire support and the commander’s guidance, the fire support coordi-
nator (FSC) conducts fire support planning to support the landing. Higher echelons allocate
supporting arms to lower echelons. Commanders at lower echelons may then further allocate
fire support (e.g., priority of fires).

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• Significant targets and either the known or suspected enemy, regardless of size, warrants
target planning.
• Obstacles to landing and maneuver; for example, some ordnance used to prepare the site can
cause craters, tree blowdown, fires, and LZ obscuration and, therefore, may not be desirable.
• Fires are scheduled to be lifted or shifted to coincide with the arrival times of aircraft formations.
• Positive control measures must be established for lifting or shifting fires. Airspace coordination
areas may be necessary to protect approach and retirement lanes.
• Use of escorts as CAS for the GCE in the LZ must be coordinated prior to mission launch. The
AFC should not assume that escort aircraft will be available if their use has not been
coordinated with the AMC.
• If a FAC(A) is available, consideration should be given to the FAC(A) controlling fires during
insertion of the initial waves until the GCE can assume control of fires.

Ground or aviation fires in the objective area should be used to establish the proper LZ criteria.
Landing zone criteria that meets conditions for assault support LZ operations, in relation to the
threat, is referred to with the procedure word, “Winter.” A Winter LZ meets the criteria needed
for assault support aircraft to continue landings in the LZ. Prior to establishment of the LZ criteria
and passing of the procedure word Winter, the LZ is considered “Devil.” During planning, the
GCE and ACE planners will have input to the establishment of the Winter criteria, which is a
key part of air assault planning. Some joint units may use the procedure words “Ice” and “Cherry”
for LZ criteria.

Landing Zone Diagrams

Landing zone diagrams are developed to graphically depict an LZ used by assault aircraft to
embark or disembark Marines and equipment. The LZ diagram may contain one or more LSs
within the LZ, and one or more landing points within each LS. Landing zone diagrams should
be developed for use during briefing and execution of PZ operations, insert LZ operations, and
extract LZ operations, as applicable. Refer to the NTTP 3-22.5-ASTACSOP, Tactical Pocket
Guide USMC Assault Support Tactical SOP, for detailed information for inclusion on LZ
diagrams. The LZ diagrams must be depicted to scale and should include, but are not limited to—

• Information about location (grid), size, elevation, surface composition, prevailing winds,
and obstacles.
• Aircraft ingress and egress direction, landing location accurately depicting the desired landing
formation, and waveoff direction.
• Sectors of fire, fire support coordination measures (FSCMs), target reference points (TRPs),
airspace coordinating measures (ACMs), ITG, etc.
• Friendly positions and immediate GCE scheme of maneuver in vicinity of the LZ for insert or
extract operations.

Air Movement Plan

The air movement plan is based on the ground tactical plan and the landing plan. The air
movement plan specifies the air movement schedule and provides instructions for the air
movement of troops, equipment, and supplies from PZs to LZs. It also provides coordinating
instructions pertaining to ingress and egress routes, air control points, aircraft speeds, altitudes,

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

and formations. The planned use of attack aircraft, to include security and linkup locations, should
be included in the plan. During MAGTF operations, the MAGTF commander approves the air
movement plan based on the recommendations of the AMC, AFC, and the LCE unit commander.
The information essential to the ground combat commander is obtained and disseminated by the
ground unit air officer or FAC.

WARNING
In order to prevent fratricide, it is imperative that the fire support plan
for the entire air assault operation be thoroughly coordinated with the
mission commander, AFC, and AMC. The AMC has primary
responsibility for planning/coordinating fires in support of the air
movement plan. The AFC has primary responsibility for planning/
coordinating fires for the remainder of the air assault operation. Fires
in support of the landing plan must be particularly well coordinated
between the AFC and AMC. If an EFL is assigned, the EFL will be the
lead ACE fire support planner during the development of the fire
support plan for the entire air assault operation.

Selection of Aircraft Ingress and Egress Routes

Aircraft ingress and egress routes are air corridors in which aircraft fly to and from their
destination during air assault operations. During MAGTF operations, the MAGTF commander,
based on the recommendations of the AMC and the AFC, approves aircraft ingress and egress
routes. Examination of METT-T with strong emphasis on threat analysis determines ingress and
egress route selection. Route and altitude are interdependent in the selection and are considered
concurrently to determine the optimum movement. Avoidance of enemy detection and fires is the
primary consideration. In addition to METT-T factors, route selection planning considers the
following general principles:

• Has the terrain been used to the best tactical advantage?

• Have the primary and alternate ingress and egress routes been identified?
• Have routes been selected that are easy to identify and navigate?
• Will communications capabilities be impaired?
• Can the routes be used under adverse weather conditions?
• Do unique support requirements exist for the routes selected?
• Have supporting arms capabilities and limitations been considered?

Ground Considerations During Assault Support Movement

Ground commanders must know the dimensions of aircraft ingress and egress routes for fire
support planning, and they must be familiar with where routes begin and end. Because aircraft
may be forced to land along the route, commanders should be able to identify prominent terrain
features and checkpoints during flight in order to facilitate mission accomplishment. Therefore,
ground commanders should conduct visual reconnaissance to the maximum extent possible during
flight and, as assault support aircraft pass over checkpoints, inform Marines so they can prepare
to disembark.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Supporting Fires Along the Ingress and Egress Route

The following must be considered during planning of supporting fires for aircraft ingress and
egress routes:

• Fires along the flight route are planned to suppress known or suspected enemy positions. These
fires should be of short duration. Multiple target engagement techniques are used (e.g., groups,
series).
• Fire plans cover the PZs, flight routes, and LZs. Fire support plans include SEAD systems and
smoke to protect formations from enemy detection. This requires aggressive fire planning by
the FSC and direct coordination with supporting units.
• All available fire support is used to suppress and/or destroy enemy weapons.
• Support may consist of smoke or other electronic attack for suppressing or confusing enemy air
defense systems. However, smoke can become an obscurant that can interfere with the flight
phase of the operation.
• On-call fires are planned along the flight route to ensure the rapid adjustment of targets of
opportunity.
• During night operations, the use of illumination fire requires detailed planning because illumi-
nation can interfere with NVDs and cause unsafe conditions.

During air assault planning, an objective area diagram is developed to integrate fires and
maneuver in the objective area. The objective area diagram is a graphical depiction of the aviation
plan to support the GCE and engage enemy targets, typically developed on a 1:50,000 map chip.
Refer to the NTTP 3-22.5-ASTACSOP for additional planning information on objective area
diagrams, but at a minimum the objective area diagram should include—

• Map datum information, north seeking arrow, key terrain features, and meteorological
information.
• The FSCM and ACM, including, but not limited to, holding areas, battle positions, firing
positions, IPs, mission control areas, airspace control areas, no fire areas, battlefield
coordination lines, fire support coordination lines, aircraft altitude deconfliction (V-diagram),
and TRP. Refer to NTTP 3-22.5-ASTACSOP for naming conventions.
• Ingress and egress aircraft routing to include time, distance, and headings.
• LZ location with sectors of fire.
• Communications information to include call signs, frequencies, and colors.
• Friendly positions, including indirect fire target lines, objectives, sectors of fire.
• Enemy positions and preplanned targets.

Loading Plan
Mobility is accomplished only to the extent that the ground unit retains its ability to accomplish its
primary mission while moving. If the air assault unit must reorganize or adjust upon landing, the
mobility, momentum, tempo, and initiative are lost or diminished. The only way to maintain the
required degree of mobility during an air assault operation is to load and land assault support
aircraft in the manner and sequence that allows immediate assumption of the mission upon

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

landing. Therefore, an effective and efficient loading plan is critical to the success of an air
assault operation. Appendix L provides aircraft characteristics that will assist in load planning.

The loading plan is based on the air movement plan. It ensures that Marines, equipment, and
supplies are loaded on the correct aircraft. Assault support aircraft loads are also prioritized to
establish a bump plan. A bump plan ensures that essential Marines and equipment are loaded
ahead of less critical loads in case of aircraft breakdown or other problems. In any case, planning
must cover the organization and operation of the PZ, including load positions, day and night
markings, and communications. The loading plan is more critical when mixing internal and
external loads and/or when mixing aircraft types.

Primary and Alternate Pickup Zones

Identification of primary and alternate PZs is the first step in developing the loading plan. The
establishment of adequate unit SOPs covering PZ operations and loading plans reduces the
requirement for detailed, written plans. Pickups zones must accommodate assault support aircraft
landing and lift, be securable with ground forces, and facilitate staging of aircraft loads. Although
enemy contact or influence is not desired during pickup, pickup under pressure must be considered
and addressed during planning. Ideal PZs also facilitate delivery of suppressive fires, security for
ground troops, and security for landed and lifting aircraft.

Pickup Zone Criteria

Pickup zone criteria for selection and organization are similar to those required for an LZ.
However, additional PZ criteria are as follows:

• Number: multiple PZs avoid concentrating forces in one area.

• Size: each PZ accommodates all supporting aircraft at once, if possible.
• Proximity to troops: if possible, PZs should not require ground movement to the PZ by troops.
• Accessibility: if possible, PZs should be accessible by vehicles to move support assets and
infantry.
• Vulnerability to attack: selected PZs should be masked by terrain from enemy observation
to the maximum extent possible.
• Preparation: if possible, PZs are usable as-is rather than requiring clearing.

Once PZs are identified, the ground commander selects and assigns PZs to be used by
subordinate units.

Pickup Zone Control

The PZs are organized to meet specific mission requirements. Depending on the size and
magnitude of the operation, a PZ may be as small as one point in one site or it may include
numerous sites.

A multiple site PZ may require select sites to conduct strictly internal or external loading
functions. Specializing sites for specific functions (e.g., heavy lift, external operations, combat
assault transport) may facilitate operations when employing a PZ that contains numerous sites
within its confines. For example, a battalion-sized air assault could require a four-site zone; one
site may conduct cargo external lift functions, another site external vehicle lifts, another internal
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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

cargo loading, and another tactical loading of troops. This enables equipment and personnel to be
concentrated where most needed.

Pickup Zone Control Officer. The PZ control officer performs similar functions as the HST and
is manned by the MAATF’s higher headquarters. The PZ control officer’s efforts and actions
conducted in the PZ may also be augmented from the ACE and LCE for materiel handling or
other cargo related functions. The PZ control officer is designated by and responsible to the
commanding officer of the MAATF. In battalion-level operations, the PZ control officer could be
the battalion XO. In most situations, the air officer will not function as the PZ control officer. The
air officer will usually be in the combat operations center assisting the FSC in the allocation of air
power. Marines from the service platoon, headquarters and service company, form the PZ control
group and are trained by the battalion air officer. All personnel allocated to PZ control must be
trained in HST functions or augmented with HST Marines from the logistics support element.
The PZ control officer accomplishes the following:

• Forms a control group to conduct operations and to provide assistance. The control group
may include—
—Terminal control.
—Guides to lead elements from unit positions around the PZ to the staging area.
—Marines to conduct hookup operations for external lifts.
—Marines to clear PZs and to provide local security.
—Other Marines as needed to perform required tasks within the PZ.
• Establishes communications on two primary radio frequencies: one to control movement
and loading of units and one to control aviation elements. Alternate frequencies are provided
as necessary.
• Plans and initiates fire support near PZs to provide all-round protection (from available
support) without endangering arrival and departure of troops or aircraft. The fire support
plan must be closely coordinated with the AFC and AMC.
• Plans and initiates adequate security to protect the main body as it assembles, moves to the
PZ, and is lifted out. If the PZ is within the friendly area, other forces, if available, provide
the security elements. Security comes from the air assault force’s resources if the force is to
be extracted from the objective area.
• Clears the PZ of obstacles.
• Marks the PZ.

Note: For battalion air assault operations, each company commander may need
to appoint a PZ control officer to operate a company PZ for the battalion.

Pickup Zone Identification and Marking. Identification and marking occurs as follows:

• The PZ control officer directs the markings of PZs, sites, and points.
• The PZs are designated by a code name, by location, or by the LZ naming convention using
birds (e.g., PZ Aux 2, PZ Albatross).
• A PZ with more than one site is usually identifiable in the air by prominent terrain features.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• A PZ can be marked by several methods (e.g., colored smoke, air panels). Red is never used to
mark an aircraft landing position. Red is used to mark landing obstacles (e.g., trees, stumps) in
the landing area. If smoke is planned for marking landing zones/sites/points, red smoke should
not be used (reserved for CASEVAC signal). Aircrew should plan to announce via radio
contact the smoke and the color, while the ground forces will confirm the smoke color.
• LSs are designated by a color.
• Landing points are designated by numbers.
• Regardless of the type of markers, the PZ is marked to indicate where aircraft are to land and to
coincide with the selected PZ aircraft formation.
• An effective method is to have several individuals in each unit paint (and carry) an extra cam-
ouflage cover or a modified (cut to size) air panel. The colored cover, when displayed, indicates
where the lead aircraft lands.

Movement to the PZ. Ground and air unit movement to the PZ is scheduled so that only the troops
and the aircraft to be loaded arrive at the PZ at the same time. This prevents congestion, preserves
security, and reduces vulnerability to enemy actions on the PZ. To coordinate the movement of
units to the PZ, the PZ control officer —

• Selects troop assembly areas, staging areas, and routes of movement. A staging area is located
close to the PZ. It is used only when the assembly is some distance away and does not allow
timely movement to the PZ.
• Determines the movement time of ground units to PZs.
• Specifies arrival times and sees that movement of units remains on schedule.

Assault Support Serial Assignment Table. At company and lower levels, the ASSAT assigns each
Marine and major items of equipment or supplies to a serial, with weights. The ASSAT is a simple
accountability tool that provides a loading manifest for each serial. Serials or multiple serials will
be later assigned to aircraft during detailed planning between the AFC and AFL. If time is limited,
the ASSAT can be a simple list of each Marine (by billet/unit) and the equipment assigned to a
serial to be loaded on aircraft and given to a specified representative. Either method of
accountability ensures that if an aircraft is lost, a list of on-board personnel and/or equipment is
available. Each serial will have a corresponding manifest with Marines’ names and blood types.
The manifest will be held by the serial leader, who usually maintains four copies, so one may be
given to the PZ control officer/MACO, one given to aircrew, and two kept on the serial leader.

Note: If recurring, small-unit air assault operations are anticipated, small-

unit leaders may require their Marines to carry individual, preprinted 3- by
5-inch cards for quick collection upon loading.

One of the critical datum calculated during ASSAT preparation is the gross weight (personnel and
equipment) assigned to a serial. The pilot in command of each aircraft must be provided with the
gross weight of each load to ensure that aircraft weight limitations are not exceeded and that the
aircraft can safely accomplish its assigned mission with the proposed load (given the ambient
environmental conditions).

Consider serial sizes that can move between different types of assault aircraft. For example, serials
of six can work well, since multiples of six can be loaded on UH-1Y, MV-22, and CH-53 aircraft.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

If one type of aircraft becomes unavailable, then aircraft loads can be redistributed while
maintaining serial integrity.

Load Planning. During preparation of the loading tables, all unit leaders attempt to maintain
the following:

• Fire teams and squads are loaded intact on the same aircraft and platoons in the same wave in
order to maintain the tactical integrity of each unit.
• The composite first wave is an exception to maintaining tactical integrity of units. The composite
first wave facilitates the seizure of the objective LZ and the landing of subsequent waves into
the LZ area. Establishing a composite first wave enables the commander to task-organize the
initial landing with varying elements from subordinate units of the tactical force. This option
may facilitate securing the objective LZ by eliminating the need to move troops on the ground
as subsequent waves land.
• Each unit load should be functionally self-sufficient whenever possible.
• Every towed item is accompanied by its prime mover.
• Crews are loaded with their vehicles or weapons.
• Component parts are loaded with major items of equipment.
• Ammunition is carried with the weapon.
• Sufficient personnel are on board to unload cargo.
• Communications between flights is established.
• Tactical spread loading is applied to all loads so that all leaders, or all crew-served weapons,
are not loaded on the same aircraft. Thus, if an aircraft is lost, the mission is not seriously
hampered. For example, loading the platoon commander, platoon sergeant, and all squad
leaders on the same aircraft or loading more than one machine gun team on the same aircraft
are violations of cross-loading principles.

Another consideration is to determine whether internal or external loading is the best delivery
method for equipment and supplies. Assault support aircraft loaded internally can fly faster and
are more maneuverable. Externally-loaded (sling) aircraft fly slower and are less maneuverable;
however, they can be loaded and unloaded more rapidly than internally-loaded aircraft.
Externally-loaded supplies can also present problems if supplies are destined for more than
one location or unit. The loading method used depends largely on availability of sling and
rigging equipment.

Bump Plan. Air mission commanders must inform the PZ control officer about any changes to the
number, type, and carrying capability of the aircraft en route to the PZ. The PZ control officer
must have time to reorganize and institute the bump plan before the arrival of the assault support
aircraft. Each aircraft load has a bump sequence designated on its ASLT. Bump priority ensures
that the most essential personnel and equipment arrive at the objective area first.

Note: A serial is the smallest group of personnel and/or equipment that will
be moved by a single aircraft and it will not be broken into smaller units.
More than one serial may be moved by a single aircraft (i.e., 2 serials of 12
may embark one CH-53, 4 serials of 6 may embark one CH-53, 3 serials of
6 may embark one MV-22, 1 serial of 6 may embark one UH-1Y).
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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

The bump plan specifies personnel and equipment that may be bumped and delivered later. If all
personnel within the load cannot be lifted, individuals must know who is to offload and in what
sequence. This ensures that key personnel are not bumped arbitrarily. When an aircraft within a
flight cannot lift off and priority serials are on board, they offload and then load another aircraft.

Company or larger units specify a PZ bump-and-straggler collection points. Personnel not moved
as planned report to this location, are accounted for, regrouped, and rescheduled by the PZ control
officer for later delivery to appropriate LZs.

The mission to be accomplished by each subordinate unit upon landing determines the sequence
of departure from each PZ. Unit priorities are based on the sequence of arrival at their LZs. For
example, if company A is to land first (at L-hour), and company B second (at L+15), and company B
is 15 minutes farther (in flight time) from the objective LZ it may depart the PZ before company A.

Staging Plan
The staging plan is based on the loading plan and prescribes the arrival time of ground units
(troops, equipment, and supplies) at the PZ and their proper order for movement. Loads must be
ready before aircraft arrive at the PZ; usually, ground units are expected to be in the PZ 15 minutes
before aircraft arrival.

Contingency Planning
Due to the dynamic nature of air assault operations, contingency plans should be made for the
possibility of execution during all phases of an operation. Each contingency may have impacts on
one or all of the five subplans, but those impacts may differ during separate phases. At a
minimum, the following contingencies should be made during air assault planning:

• Asset attrition.
• TRAP.
• CASEVAC.
• Emergency extract.
• Immediate re-embark.

Other contingencies that should be considered, but are not necessarily inherent to all air assault
operations include, but are not limited to, mass casualty, airborne reaction force, quick reaction
force (QRF), resupply, reinforcement, no communications plans, and a detainee plan.

Asset Attrition. There is a high likelihood that there will be attrition of aviation assets during air
assault operations. Loss of planned assault support aircraft for lift may trigger execution of the
bump plan and have implications for follow-on waves. Additionally, other aviation and ground
assets should be considered. For example, the loss of an unmanned aircraft system (UAS),
airborne C2 aircraft, specific DAS assets, or indirect fire assets that plays a role in the overall fire
support plan.

Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel. The TRAP mission set is not exclusive to air assault
operations, but should be planned for during air assault planning. The TRAP planning should
include plans for immediate TRAP using MAATF assets, deliberate TRAP using MAATF assets

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

dedicated to this mission set, and the use of theater/higher headquarters dedicated TRAP or
combat search and rescue assets, as applicable.

Casualty Evacuation. Casualty evacuation planning is also not exclusive to air assault planning.
The CASEVAC plans should take into account the use of MAATF assets in either a dedicated or
immediate role, as well as use of theater/higher headquarters CASEVAC or medical evacuation
assets. Special planning for CASEVAC should include addressing the need and availability
of specially trained medical personnel, medical facility locations and levels of care, casualty
collection points in relation to LZs, and aircraft response times. The CASEVAC plans for air
assault operations should have assets ready for this mission set as soon as MAATF ground
personnel are inserted into the objective area.

Emergency Extract. Friendly forces should plan for emergency extract in case they come in contact
with or contact is imminent with an overwhelming enemy force. The supported unit must address
what the air assault force expects the ACE to provide. Support may involve a surge of CAS, the
maneuver of another reinforcing unit into a nearby LZ, or it may be emergency extraction. Units
must understand, however, that an emergency extract may not always be possible. If the unit
has suffered casualties or the enemy force possesses greater mobility, an attempt to execute an
emergency extract may be disastrous.

The mission commander may delegate authority to the AFC to call for an emergency extract
if an enemy force threatens to destroy the unit. Therefore, the AFC must clearly understand
how the air assault mission fits into the overall MAGTF mission. The repercussions of executing
an emergency extract on the MAGTF mission must weigh heavily on the decision to execute.

Once the decision has been made to execute an emergency extract, escort and/or combat air patrol
aircraft move into position to provide suppressive fires. The air assault unit breaks contact and
moves to a secure PZ. On call, the assault support aircraft extracts the unit. Consideration should
be given to landing all aircraft in one wave—zone, threat, and aircraft availability permitting—in
order to expedite the extract.

Since confusion is inherent during an emergency extract, all participants must thoroughly
understand weapons conditions in order to reduce/eliminate the risk of fratricide. A visual
means to distinguish between friend and foe must be established and briefed to the assault
support gunners.

Immediate Re-embark. Immediate re-embarkation should be planned for situations where an

expeditious embarkation of troops is required. Immediate re-embarkations are conducted in
permissive environments and not in response to enemy pressure. Reasons for execution may
include, but are not limited to, an insert/abort or to move the force to another location.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

MISSION BRIEFING AND DEBRIEFING

The responsibility for operational briefings is a function of command and rests with the commander
tasked with executing the air assault operation. Generally, each subordinate level of command
conducts a briefing that focuses on that unit’s participation in the operation. For example, a
command representative of the landing force/MAGTF briefs the overall operation, representatives
from the air assault units brief their unit’s participation, the AMC briefs the airborne portion of the
air assault, each individual flight leader briefs the flight, and each individual aircraft commander
briefs the aircrew.

Mission Brief
The mission brief is the final phase of the planning effort and should be attended by all
key personnel. This brief sets forth the CONOPS, scheme of maneuver, and specific details
concerning mission coordination and execution. Information is provided that enables
each participant to understand the overall operation and the individual’s specific role and
responsibilities regarding mission execution. Joint briefings with representatives from each
participating unit should be used as much as possible. Depending on the mission requirements,
the minimum attendees should include the AMC, the AFC, the FSC or a representative; the
TAC(A) or FAC(A); the FAC; the fixed-wing attack aircraft flight leader; the attack helicopter
flight leader/flight coordinator; the AFL; and the aircraft commanders. The information developed
during the planning effort becomes the subject matter for the mission brief.

Air Assault Mission Briefing Guide

Proper briefing of flight crews is essential to mission success. The air assault mission briefing
should be conducted in the most logical, brief, and organized manner possible. The information
from appendix M and NTTP series of publications, including NTTP 3-22.5-ASTACSOP, provides
detailed mission briefing guides. In addition to the orientation and situation, mission, execution,
administration and logistics, command and signal (referred to as SMEAC) format, the following
information is presented at the air assault mission briefing—

• Aircraft assignment.
• Call signs.
• Flight leader/alternate flight leader.
• Execution timeline.
• Controlling agencies.
• Frequencies.
• Radio procedures.
• Identification, friend or foe procedures/codes.
• Navigation data.
• ASLT and ASSAT.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• Execution checklist.
• LZ/PZ diagrams (include imagery if available).

It must be emphasized that the mission briefing guide is only that, a guide, and is not intended to
be used in total or in the depicted sequence for every type of mission. Only those items directly
applicable to a specific mission should be incorporated into the mission brief. Since all members
of the mission will not be involved in the planning, it is imperative that the flight brief be well-
delivered, organized, and easily understood. The use of the mission briefing guide, adequate
rehearsals, and the use of tactical SOPs significantly reduce the time required to conduct the brief.

Mission Debrief
Mission debriefs should be conducted for all air assault operations. The mission debrief should be
a systematic review of the operation by phase and stage, looking for planning gaps and shortfalls
that need to be resolved for future operations. Debriefers should look for key events that will have
impacts on future operations. Designated personnel should record the results of the debrief so
individuals and key staff can utilize the lessons learned for future planning.

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CHAPTER 4
COMBAT OPERATIONS

Air assault operations are deliberate, precisely planned, and vigorously executed combat
operations. Air assault operations are designed to allow friendly forces to maneuver over extended
distances and terrain barriers in order to impose the commander’s will on the enemy. It is the
MAGTF commander’s choice to employ an air assault operation in support of the scheme of
maneuver. The decision to conduct an air assault operation depends on many factors relative to
METT-T. The commander uses the MAATF when the situation permits and when the possible
payoff outweighs the risk. An air assault capability promotes speed, surprise, and flexibility so
that the commander can react rapidly to a changing situation.

An air assault operation can be conducted alone or in conjunction with other forms and types
of operations. An air assault operation is based on the ground tactical plan, and it capitalizes
on speed and flexibility in order to gain maximum surprise. The ultimate goal of an air assault
operation is to place the air assault force on or near the objective and to be capable of immediate
action. Typically, air assault operations are conducted to—

• Seize key terrain.

• Overcome obstacles.
• Conduct raids.
• Insert or extract patrols.
• Conduct security operations.
• Support deception operations.
• Reposition forces.
• Rapidly reinforce a successful attack.
• Support defensive operations by—
—Blocking enemy penetrations or withdrawals.
—Reinforcing encircled forces.
—Inserting or extracting patrols.
—Conducting security operations.
—Conducting counterattacks.
—Repositioning forces.

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Section I. Air Assault Operations in the Offense

Offensive operations are conducted to take the initiative from the enemy, gain freedom of action
and generate effects to achieve objectives. Like all operations, air assault operations conducted
in offense can be planned and conducted in either a hasty or deliberate fashion. A hasty operation
is an operation in which the tactical situation requires the use of immediately available forces and
fragmentary orders to perform actions with minimal preparation, trading planning and preparation
time for speed of execution. A deliberate operation is an operation in which the tactical situation
allows the development and coordination of detailed plans, mission specific rehearsals and task
organization of the force, thorough preparation, and synchronized shaping and sustaining actions
(such as a raid). Air assault operations provide the MAGTF commander an ability to generate
offensive initiative by quickly projecting combat power faster and over greater distances.
Effective air assault operations in the offense capitalize on accurate and timely intelligence
allowing the commander to shape the battlespace, maneuver to gain a position of advantage, and
generate a greater operational tempo than the enemy can match. When a decision to conduct an air
assault is made to seize, retain, or exploit the initiative, the MAGTF commander is conducting
offensive operations. Even when conducting defensive or stability operations, wresting the
initiative from the adversary or enemy requires the spirit of the offense. The focus of offensive
operations is the enemy, not simply the seizure of terrain. Successful offensive operations—

• Avoid the enemy’s strength and attack their weakness by focusing combat power against the
enemy’s critical vulnerabilities.
• Isolate the enemy from their sources of support, including the population.
• Strike the enemy from unexpected directions, disrupting their plans.
• Exploit every advantage.
• Overwhelm the ability of enemy decision makers to observe, orient, decide, and act.

TYPES OF OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS

All offensive operations seek to capitalize on surprise, concentration, tempo, and audacity, which
are characteristics of the offense. Air assault operations are ideally suited for the offense due to the
nature, speed, velocity, and associated risk versus effect potentially gained.

Movement to Contact
Movement to contact is a type of offensive operation that develops the situation and establishes
or regains contact with the enemy. Commanders conduct movements to contact when the enemy
situation is vague, whether trying to locate the enemy, regain contact with the enemy, or preserve
tactical flexibility or when the enemy situation is as a means of force protection in their approach
or when conducting exploitations and pursuits. Forces executing this operation seek to make
contact with the smallest friendly force feasible, not only to avoid decisive engagement, but also
to enable decisive action by a main effort. When employed within a movement to contact, air
assault operations may be selected by the MAGTF commander for several reasons, such as to
reposition security elements to protect exposed flanks from enemy attack, block avenues of

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approach, hold key terrain, fix an enemy force in place, or be employed to engage an enemy once
uncovered. Air assault operations may also be utilized to force enemy reactions, movement
(turning movement), or to deceive the enemy as part of a deception plan during a feint with
dummy inserts. Air assault operations use the approach march and the search and attack as
movement to contact operations.

Movement to Contact Approach March. An approach march is a type of movement to contact or

advance when direct contact with the enemy is imminent or intended. It emphasizes speed over
tactical deployment. Air assault forces are not typically utilized within the approach march itself.
However, air assaults could be preplanned as follow and support missions or assigned missions
following contact with the enemy in support of their movement or shaping actions. Close air support,
air interdiction, and counter air operations are essential to the success of large scale movements
to contact. Local air superiority or, at a minimum, air parity is vital to the operation’s success.

Movement to Contact Search and Attack. Search and attack is a method of movement to contact
used to develop the situation and deny the enemy the ability to operate in a given area when the
enemy is operating in small, dispersed elements. Air assault operations are well suited for search
and attack operations where the enemy typically operates in smaller, dispersed forces as a fixing,
finishing, or reconnaissance element of the search and attack.

Attack
An attack is an offensive operation characterized by coordinated movement, supported by fire,
conducted to defeat, destroy, or capture the enemy or seize and/or secure key terrain. Attacks may
be decisive or shaping actions within hasty or deliberate operations (other than raids). Air assault
provides rapid execution of attacks, allowing the commander to achieve tactical surprise and mass
forces, regardless of obstacles. The following types of attack are not isolated actions and the
MAGTF commander may combine several types of attack to seek greater effects:

• Hasty and deliberate attacks.

• Spoiling.
• Counterattack.
• Feint.
• Demonstration.
• Reconnaissance in force.
• Raid.

An attack differs from a movement to contact because, even in a hastily conducted attack, the
commander knows part of the enemy’s disposition. This knowledge enables the commander to better
synchronize the attack and employ combat power more effectively than in a movement to contact.
If an attack is successful, the adversary is no longer willing or able to offer meaningful resistance.

Hasty and Deliberate Attacks. Attacks can be hasty or deliberate based on the degree of
coordination, planning, and preparation involved prior to execution. In a hasty attack, the
commander trades preparation time for speed to exploit an opportunity, while a deliberate attack
employs preplanned firepower and maneuver, and usually includes the coordinated use of all

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available resources. Where a deliberate attack involves a deliberate planning process, a hasty
attack could exploit a fleeting opportunity. A hasty air assault would potentially incur higher risk
without a fully formed situational picture or due to reduced planning time. See MCDP 1-0,
Marine Corps Operations, for more detailed information.

Spoiling Attack. A spoiling attack is a type of attack employed to seriously impair an enemy
hostile attack while the enemy is in the process of forming or assembling for such an attack. The
objective of a spoiling attack is to disrupt the enemy’s offensive capabilities and timelines while
destroying targeted enemy personnel and equipment, not to seize terrain and other physical
objectives. A spoiling attack usually employs heavy, attack helicopter, or fire support elements to
attack enemy assembly positions in front of the friendly commander’s main line of resistance or
battle positions.

Counterattack. A counterattack is a type of attack in which all or part of a defending force attacks
an enemy attacking force to regain ground lost, to cut off or destroy enemy advance units, or to
deny the enemy its purpose of attack. A unit conducts a counterattack to seize the initiative from
the enemy through offensive action. Once launched, the counterattack normally becomes the
commander’s decisive action. The MAGTF commander plans and conducts a counterattack to
attack the enemy when and where the enemy is most vulnerable, which is when the enemy is
attempting to overcome friendly defensive positions. The MAGTF commander normally assigns
attack by fire positions when counterattacking using primarily direct and indirect fires. An air
assault may be selected to counterattack an advancing enemy force or to degrade the momentum
of the attack and identify the enemy’s main effort, thus causing the enemy to deploy early and
fight the air assault force. The MAGTF commander may also use an air assault as a reserve
element, which allows greater flexibility in the time and place to employ a counterattack, such
as a vertical envelopment. Lastly, the MAGTF commander may utilize aerial movement of forces
to position for deception operations or turning movements as part of the counterattack, to force
the enemy to commit forces for security, or to fight in several directions simultaneously.

Feint. A feint is a type of attack involving contact with the enemy to deceive the enemy about the
location or time of the actual main offensive action. Feints are used in conjunction with other
shaping operations to cause the enemy to react in three predictable ways: to employ reserves
improperly, to shift supporting fires, or to reveal defensive fires. Forces conducting a feint make
direct fire contact with the enemy but avoid decisive engagement. Dependent upon the size of
the enemy force and the relative deployment distance of the feint from the main body, air assault
operations place the MAATF at great risk of being decisively engaged and possibly destroyed.
Additionally, the MAATF could be out of range of surface-to-surface fire support and exposed
to enemy air defenses. The MAGTF commander and the MAGTF staff must possess accurate,
timely intelligence in order to adequately weigh risk versus gain in the decision to use air assault
in a feint.

Demonstration. A demonstration is a type of attack or show of force on a front where a decision

is not sought. Its aim is to deceive the enemy. Similar to a feint, a demonstration is also used in
conjunction with other shaping operations. One difference between a feint and a demonstration is
that forces conducting a demonstration do not seek contact with the enemy. Air assault operations
used within a demonstration can deceive the enemy as to the MAGTF commander’s intentions for
positioning of forces and greatly reduce risk to the MAATF because the enemy is presented with a

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larger element of assault support aviation appearing to position or mass elsewhere on the
battlefield, which lends greater credibility to the deception plan.

Reconnaissance in Force. A reconnaissance in force is a type of attack made to obtain information

and to locate and test enemy dispositions, strengths, and reactions in order to determine enemy
weakness. It is used when knowledge of the enemy is vague and there is insufficient time or
resources to develop the situation. When the MAATF is employed within a reconnaissance in
force operation, it is expected that it will uncover and fight enemy forces. The reconnaissance
objective is focused on the enemy and as such, the MAATF is expected to be able to “fight for
information” it encounters by determining the assigned objectives and tasks delegated to the
mission commander. The MAATF will rapidly and accurately report the enemy disposition,
strength, will to fight, and ability to make a decision to the MAGTF commander so that he/she
may determine how to quickly and decisively maneuver against the enemy.

Raid. A raid is a type of limited objective attack, usually small scale, involving a penetration of
hostile territory for a specific purpose other than seizing and holding terrain. It ends with a well-
planned withdrawal upon completion of the assigned mission. Raids are ideally suited for air
assault operations and are normally conducted by battalion size or smaller forces. Raids are
normally conducted in five phases—

• Infiltration or insertion into the objective area.

• Cordon of the objective area.
• Assault.
• Seizure of the objective.
• Withdrawal.

Detailed planning, accurate intelligence, and combined rehearsals allow the MAATF to quickly
insert, perform the assigned mission, and then extract from the objective area rapidly before an
enemy reaction can be effected.

See figure 4-1, on page 4-6, for a diagram of the five phases of a raid.

Exploitation
Exploitation is an offensive operation following a successful attack that is designed to disorganize
the enemy in depth. Due to their speed, air assault operations conducted during exploitation
can further extend the initial success of an attack by preventing the enemy from disengaging,
withdrawing, and re-establishing an effective defense. Exploitations seek to disintegrate enemy
forces to the point where they have no alternative but surrender or take flight. Exploitations place
great, but necessary, demands on the endurance of Marines and equipment. Exploitations are
conducted with two overriding requirements: speed and violence. The attacking force bypasses
pockets of resistance to concentrate on the destruction of the more vulnerable enemy headquarters,
combat support, and CSS units. They disrupt, degrade, or destroy the enemy’s command and
control, logistics, air defenses, and fire support elements. Enemy air defenses are either avoided
or specifically targeted for suppression to allow the air assault force to land and deploy.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

S 4

2 2
Objective Gold
B B
I

1 5
KEY
1 infiltrate
Rally 28 2 cordon
3 assault
4 seize
5 withdrawl

Figure 4-1. Five Phases of a Raid.

Pursuit
A pursuit is an offensive operation designed to catch or cut off a hostile force with the aim of
destroying it while it attempts escape. A pursuit normally follows a successful exploitation.
However, any offensive operation can transition into a pursuit if enemy resistance has broken
down and the enemy is fleeing the battlefield. Therefore, commanders and staffs must be flexible
enough to recognize and exploit “catastrophic success.” Pursuits entail rapid movement and
decentralized control and, similar to an exploitation, place great demands on the endurance of
Marines and equipment to take advantage of the opportunity to decisively defeat the enemy. Air
assault forces, operating as part of the pursuit force, can expect to be ordered to bypass resistance
and move to objectives that serve as chokepoints for the retreating enemy.

FORMS OF MANEUVER
Air assault operations add speed, depth, and flexibility to maneuver, thus enhancing the MAGTF
commander’s capability to influence the enemy. Within every form of maneuver, combined arms
organizations accomplish their assigned mission by synchronizing the contributions of all
warfighting functions to execute these forms of maneuver. Air assault operations are not ideally
suited to perform all forms of maneuver, such as a frontal attack, but can be selected to assist other
units conducting that type of offensive operation. Air assault operations use the following forms
of maneuver:

• Envelopment.
• Turning movement.

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• Frontal attack.
• Penetration.
• Infiltration.
• Flanking attack.

Envelopment
An envelopment is an offensive maneuver in which the main attacking force passes around or
over the enemy’s principal defensive positions to secure objectives to the enemy’s rear. The
four types of envelopment are the single envelopment, double envelopment, encirclement, and
vertical envelopment (specific to air assault). Vertical envelopment is a tactical maneuver in
which troops, either air-dropped or air-landed, attack the rear and flanks of an enemy force,
in effect cutting off or encircling the enemy force. Tactical commanders conduct vertical
envelopments—airborne or air assault operations—to gain a positional advantage or to envelop
or turn the enemy. While the MAGTF commander should attempt to achieve an unopposed
landing when conducting vertical envelopments, the assault force must prepare for the presence
of opposition. The capability to conduct vertical envelopments—airborne and air assault
operations—allows a tactical commander to—

• Threaten enemy rear areas, causing the enemy to divert combat elements to protect vital
installations and hold key terrain.
• Overcome distances quickly, overfly barriers, and bypass enemy defenses.
• Extend the area over which the commander can exert influence.
• Disperse reserve forces widely for survivability reasons while maintaining their capability for
effective and rapid response.
• Exploit combat power by increasing tactical mobility. Air assault operations are best suited for
vertical assaults whereby the MAGTF commander can quickly and decisively close forces in
an enemy’s rear area.

Turning Movement
A turning movement is a form of offensive maneuver in which the attacking force passes around
or over the enemy’s principal defensive positions to secure objectives deep in the rear area of the
enemy, which forces the enemy to abandon position or divert major forces to meet the threat. The
MAGTF commander can use air assault forces to employ a vertical envelopment and effect a turning
movement. A commander uses this form of offensive maneuver to seize vital areas in the enemy’s
rear area before the main enemy force can withdraw or receive support or reinforcements. Turning
movements can frequently transition from an attack into an exploitation or pursuit.

Frontal Attack
A frontal attack is a form of maneuver in which the main action is directed against the front of the
enemy forces. It may be conducted when no assailable flank has been located or used to overrun a
weaker enemy force. The MAGTF commander commonly uses a frontal attack as a shaping action

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in conjunction with other forms of maneuver. Due to its close proximity to the enemy front, air
assaults are not normally selected for frontal attacks.

Penetration
A penetration is a form of maneuver in which an attacking force seeks to rupture enemy defenses
on a narrow front to disrupt the defensive system (penetration is also a tactical task). Destroying
the continuity of that defense allows the enemy’s subsequent isolation and defeat in detail by
exploiting friendly forces. The penetration extends from the enemy’s security area through main
defensive positions into the enemy’s rear area. The MAGTF commander employs a penetration
when there is no assailable flank, enemy defenses are overextended, weak spots are detected in the
enemy’s positions, or time/pressure do not permit envelopment. The close proximity of enemy
forces precludes air assault forces from conducting an actual penetration. More likely, air assault
operations will be a follow-on effort during subsequent attacks, exploitation, or pursuit.

Infiltration
An infiltration is a form of maneuver in which friendly forces move through or into an area or
territory occupied by either friendly or enemy troops or organizations. The movement is made,
either by small groups or by individuals, at extended or irregular intervals. Due to the smaller
force size and the covert nature of an infiltration (typically contact is to be avoided), this normally
precludes the conduct of an air assault operation. It is more likely that the MAGTF commander
would conduct an aerial movement of forces to position them to conduct infiltrations across the
enemy’s front.

Flanking Attack
A flanking attack is a form of offensive maneuver that pits our strength against the enemy’s
weakness in order to gain a position of advantage while avoiding the enemy’s combat power.
Directed at the flank of an enemy force, a vulnerable aspect of an enemy formation. A flanking
attack is similar to an envelopment, but generally not as deep. The purpose of a flanking attack
is to avoid the enemy’s combat power in the process of defeating the enemy. The MAGTF
commander would employ a flanking attack as a rapid way to maneuver to the enemy’s flank and
to attack the flanks of a withdrawing enemy column, slowing them and aiding in their destruction.

CONTROL MEASURES
A control measure is a directive given graphically or orally by a commander to subordinate
commands to assign responsibilities, coordinate fires and maneuver, and control combat
operations. Each control measure can be portrayed graphically. In general, all control measures
should be easily identifiable on the ground. Some examples of basic control measures used in
air assault operations are—

• ACM.
• Area of operations and boundaries.
• Assembly area.
• Checkpoint.

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• Contact point.
• Coordination point.
• Critical friendly zone.
• Direct fire control measure.
• Engagement area.
• FSCM.
• Fire support targets.
• FARP.
• FLOT.
• Line of contact.
• LZs (primary, secondary, tertiary).
• Named area of interest.
• No fire area.
• Objective.
• Phase line.
• Position area for artillery/mortars.
• PZs (primary, secondary, tertiary).
• Routes and corridors.
• Target area of interest.

During COA development, the MAGTF planning staff develops well-conceived control measures
in order to help delineate and define responsibilities and coordinates fires and maneuvers among
various units conducting the air assault operation. Control measures are both permissive (allows
something to happen) and restrictive (limits how something is done). The MAGTF planning
staff strives to develop them in a manner that provides the greatest possible freedom of action
to subordinates, establishing only those necessary to provide essential coordination and
deconfliction between units. Commanders should seek to remove restrictive control measures
as soon as possible in order to maintain freedom of maneuver and maintain the tempo of operations
against a fluid enemy. Control measures may be graphical, such as boundaries, or procedural, such
as target engagement priorities.

Section II. Air Assault Operations in the Defense

While the offensive form of combat operations is more decisive, the defense is the stronger form of
combat. The inherent strengths of the defense include the defender’s ability to choose the ground to
fight on, to occupy positions before the attack, and to use the available time to prepare the defenses.
A defensive operation is an operation conducted to defeat an enemy attack, gain time, economize
forces, and develop conditions favorable for transition to offensive or stability operations. As with
the offense, air assault operations in the defense provide the MAGTF commander an ability to
maneuver, mass, and close forces quickly over increased distances. Air assault operations, when

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conducted from the defense, allow the MAGTF to maintain the “offensive spirit” and react to
unexpected enemy actions. Flexibility and maneuver within the defense are critical in presenting the
enemy attacker with a series of dilemmas, causing the attacker to continually adjust, as well as
setting the conditions for the MAGTF’s transition to the offense. Defensive operations alone
normally cannot achieve a decision. Their purpose is to create conditions for counteroffensive
actions that allow the MAGTF to regain the initiative. Other reasons for conducting defensive
operations include—

• To retain terrain decisive to mission accomplishment or deny a vital area to the enemy.
• To attrit or fix the enemy as a prelude to offensive operations.
• To mitigate unexpected actions by the enemy.
• To increase the enemy’s vulnerability by forcing the enemy commander to concentrate
subordinate forces.

Successful defensive operations share the following characteristics:

• Maneuver.
• Preparation.
• Mass and concentration.
• Flexibility.
• Use of terrain.
• Mutual support.
• Defense in depth.
• Surprise.
• Knowledge of the enemy.
• Local security.

TYPES OF DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS

The three types of defensive operations include area defense, mobile defense, and retrograde
defense.

Area Defense
Air assault operations support the area defense by serving as a reserve element to reinforce critical
areas that become in danger of being lost and as a counterattack force to disrupt the enemy’s
advance. The reserve element is used to add depth, to block or restore the battle position by
counterattack. The focus of the area defense is on retaining terrain where the bulk of the defending
force positions itself in mutually supporting and prepared positions. See MCDP 1-0 for more
detailed information.

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Mobile Defense
The mobile defense destroys the attacking enemy through a series of maneuver and offensive
actions, in conjunction with defensive fires, arrayed on the terrain to seize the initiative from an
attacking enemy. The mobile defense focuses on defeating or destroying the enemy by allowing
them to advance to a point where they are exposed to a decisive counterattack by the reserve. Air
assault operations in support of a mobile defense will usually consist of utilizing the MAATF as a
mobile reserve or counterattack force. The counterattack force is a dedicated force within a mobile
defense and, once committed, is allocated the majority of available combat power in support of
its maneuver to increase its capability of achieving a decisive effect. A mobile defense requires
an area of operations of considerable depth in which to employ the MAATF. The MAGTF
commander requires this depth to shape the battlefield for a mobile defense, causing an enemy
force to overextend its lines of communication, expose its flanks, and dissipate enemy combat
power as it projects itself toward the MAGTF’s defenses. Likewise, the MAGTF commander
must be able to move the MAATF around and behind the enemy force targeted to be cut off
and destroyed. Divisions and larger formations normally execute mobile defenses. However,
regimental landing teams and maneuver battalions employed as air assault forces can be
employed to participate as part of the fixing force or the reserve in a counterattack force to
conduct a vertical envelopment.

Retrograde
A retrograde is a transitional type of defensive operation that consists of any movement or
maneuver of a command to the rear or away from the enemy. A retrograde may be caused by
an enemy action or by a decision by the MAGTF commander. The most distinguishable point
of the retrograde is that it is a transitional operation and is not conducted in isolation. It is part
of a larger concept designed to regain the initiative and defeat the enemy. There are three types
of retrogrades—

• Delay.
• Withdrawal.
• Retirement.

Delay. A delaying operation is an operation in which a force under pressure trades space for
time by slowing down the enemy’s momentum and inflicting maximum damage on the enemy
without becoming decisively engaged. See MCDP 1-0 for more detailed information. Air assault
operations add depth to the MAGTF commander’s concept of the defense. The MAATF supports
the delay by being inserted into a series of forward positions in the security area and then delaying
from subsequent positions in depth. The risk to the MAATF becoming decisively engaged must
be thoroughly considered by the MAGTF planning staff. The defensive methods from which
the MAATF delays from must be planned in a manner that provides for the safe recovery and
repositioning of the force in depth and beyond the reach of the enemy’s long-range weapons
and air defenses.

Withdrawal. A withdrawal is a method of retrograde in which a force in contact disengages from

an enemy force and moves in a direction away from the enemy. Within a withdrawal operation,
air assaults may be planned by the MAGTF commander in order to ensure the withdrawal is
conducted successfully and unencumbered by enemy forces interdiction. See MCDP 1-0 for
more detailed information on withdrawal.

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Retirement. A retirement is an operation in which a force out of contact moves away from the
enemy. A retiring unit organizes for combat, but it does not anticipate interference from enemy
ground forces. Typically, another unit’s security force or a relieving force covers the movement
of the unit as it conducts its retirement. However, mobile enemy forces, unconventional forces,
air strikes, air assault operations, or long-range fires may attempt to interdict the retiring unit.
The mission commander must plan for enemy actions and organize the unit to fight in self-
defense; therefore, air assaults may be planned by the MAGTF commander during a retirement
in order to ensure the retirement is conducted successfully and is unencumbered by enemy
forces interdiction.

Section III. Air Assault in Support of Stability Operations

Air assault operations can support stability operations by responding to offensive, defensive, and
security problems as they arise anywhere within the area of operations. The speed, velocity, and
time in which the air assault forces can respond provides the MAGTF a long-reaching, viable,
and capable force to deter instability, restore or enforce peace and/or provide security for initial
humanitarian support activities. In stability operations, air assault should not be confused with air
movement, as air movement supports other activities.

Nearing the end of offensive-oriented operations may not always be a decisive act. The conduct
of stability-focused operations may be the result of decisive actions in the operation or campaign
or at the direction of the joint force commander or even the President of the United States. The
transition to stability-focused operations cannot be an afterthought. Setting the conditions for
incorporating air assault operations in support of stability may have significant impact on the
planning and execution of offensive-oriented actions anticipated in future operations. See Marine
Corps Warfighting Publication (MCWP) 3-03, Stability Operations, for more information.

INITIAL RESPONSE ACTIVITIES

Generally, initial response activities are tasks executed to stabilize the operational environment
in an area in crisis; for example, during or immediately following conflict or a natural disaster.
Initial response activities by the MAATF aim to provide a safe, secure environment and attend
to the immediate humanitarian needs of a population. They support efforts to reduce the level
of violence or human suffering while creating conditions that enable other organizations to
participate safely in ongoing efforts. For example, air assault operations throughout the initial
phases of Operation Restore Hope across Somalia were proven to be a critical element of the
operation in December 1992. Independent warlords were continually attacking and stealing
resources from nongovernmental and other world relief agencies, causing further suffering and
increased security concerns. Aggressive intelligence activities allowed the Marines, as part of
the unified task force, to project forces to locations hundreds of miles away to areas such as
Kismayo, Baidoa, and Bardera, Somalia, to thwart security encroachments and allow relief
agencies to perform their tasks.

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STABILITY ACTIVITIES
Stability activities that foster sustainability encompass long-term efforts that capitalize on
capacity-building and reconstruction activities to establish conditions that enable sustainable
development. The MAGTF commander relies on the flexibility, responsiveness, and capabilities
that air assaults can provide throughout the conduct of all stability operations in a campaign or
operation. See MCWP 3-03 for more detailed information.

Section IV. Air Assault in Support of Reconnaissance and Security Operations

Air assault operations in support of reconnaissance and security operations are essential to
providing the MAGTF commander an agile, flexible means of projecting lethal and responsive
combat power throughout the range of military operations. This capability in closing forces
rapidly allows the MAGTF to generate or maintain tempo of operations and retain the initiative
during any combat operation or campaign.

RECONNAISSANCE
Reconnaissance is “a mission undertaken to obtain, by visual observation or other detection
methods, information about the activities and resources of an enemy or adversary, or to secure
data concerning the meteorological, hydrographical, or geographical characteristics of a particular
area.” (DOD Dictionary)

Capitalizing on the mobility provided by assault support aircraft, the MAATF is capable of being
employed in offensive reconnaissance roles, such as during a reconnaissance in force, finding,
fixing, and, when capable, finishing enemy forces. Assault support operations also allow the
MAGTF commander to project forces in the deep fight to either confirm or deny enemy
operations and degrade and/or diminish their capabilities. See MCDP 1-0 for more detailed
information on reconnaissance.

SECURITY OPERATIONS
A security operation is an operation undertaken to provide the force being protected early and
accurate warning of enemy operations, to provide ample reaction time and maneuver space in
which to react to the enemy, and to develop the situation in engaging the threat. The ultimate goal
of security operations is to protect the force from surprise and report the actions and intentions
of the enemy to reduce the unknown factors in any operation. As such, security operations are
“force-centric” in focus. Security operations are shaping actions. As a shaping action, economy
of force is often a condition of tactical security operations.

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There are three types of security missions:

• Screen.
• Guard.
• Cover.

Each of these missions varies in the degree of security provided, the forces and capabilities
required, and the degree of engagement with the enemy the MAGTF commander desires. Air
assault operations in support of security operations provide the MAGTF commander flexibility
to rapidly mass and recover forces into and out of critical security areas. For more detailed
information on security operations, see MCDP 1-0.

Screen
A screen is a type of security operation in which the primary purpose is to provide early warning
to the protected force. It is a friendly-oriented tactical task to observe, identify, and report
information, and fights only in self-protection.

Screening missions are unique in that they can be performed to the front, flanks, and rear of a
stationary unit or facility, but only to the flanks and rear of a moving force. When the protected
force is moving, units to the front are performing zone reconnaissance, advance guard, or a form
of movement to contact. In conducting air assault operations in support of screening missions, the
MAGTF commander assumes some degree of risk. Within a screening mission, an inherent task is
that the MAATF must be able to avoid decisive engagement enemy forces. This is additionally
critical in providing for safety of flight of supporting aircraft ingressing and egressing out of the
security zone. Additionally, the MAGTF staff must have adequate knowledge of the enemy’s
capabilities and equipment. The enemy cannot possess adequate air defenses that could further
threaten transiting assault support aircraft. Should the MAATF become decisively engaged, there
is a possibility that it cannot be recovered by supporting assault support aviation due to being in
direct contact with enemy forces. The MAGTF commander and staff must adequately weigh the
operational risks associated when employing air assault operations in support of screening
missions to ensure that the MAATF can be recovered or reinforced should they become decisively
engaged by the enemy.

Guard
A guard is a type of security operation in which the primary purpose is to protect the main force
by fighting to gain time while also observing and reporting information and to prevent enemy
ground observation of, and direct fire against, the main body by reconnoitering, attacking,
defending, and delaying. Guard missions can be conducted to the front, flanks, and rear of a
stationary unit or facility or a moving force.

Guarding missions are a friendly-oriented tactical task to protect the main force by fighting to gain
time while also observing and reporting information. The three methods of conducting guard
missions are—

• Advance guard.
• Flank guard.
• Rear guard.

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In conducting air assault operations in support of guarding missions, the MAGTF commander
assumes an even greater degree of risk for the MAGTF in comparison to screening missions.
Within a guarding mission, the inherent task is that the MAATF must be able to engage and fight
enemy forces for a specified length of time (or to cause the enemy to act in a specific manner) as
directed by the MAGTF. Knowledge of the enemy’s capabilities and equipment are critical in
ensuring that the MAATF is not deployed to guard against a more capable enemy force. The enemy
air defense capabilities cannot affect employment of the MAATF. The MAGTF commander and
staff must adequately weigh the operational risks associated when employing air assault operations
in support of guarding missions, ensuring that the MAATF can be recovered or reinforced should
they become decisively engaged by the enemy.

Cover
A cover is a type of security operation in which the primary purpose is to intercept, engage, delay,
disorganize, and deceive the enemy to protect the covered force and develop the situation. It is
also a friendly-oriented tactical task to conduct offensive and defensive actions independent of the
main body to protect the covered force and develop the situation. A covering force performs all
the critical tasks of screen and guard missions. It is, usually, a self-contained MAGTF that
operates beyond the range of friendly artillery positioned with the main force. A covering force
may normally task-organize to include aviation, artillery, tank, reconnaissance, CSS, and
occasionally, civil affairs units in order to operate independently. A covering force, or portions of
it, often becomes decisively engaged with enemy forces; therefore, the covering force must have
substantial combat power to engage the enemy and accomplish its mission. A covering force
develops the situation earlier than a screening or a guarding force. It fights longer and more often
and defeats larger enemy forces. A covering force for a stationary force performs a defensive
mission, while a covering force for a moving force generally conducts offensive actions. A
covering force normally operates forward of the main body in the offense or defense, or to the rear
during retrograde operations. Within a covering mission, the options at the MAGTF commander’s
disposal for the planning and employment of air assault operations are virtually unlimited.

Section V. Other Tactical Operations

REINFORCEMENT OF COMMITTED UNITS

The MAGTF commander may direct the insertion of an air assault unit to reinforce threatened
sectors and add depth to the battle area. An MAATF can reinforce a committed unit—

• With uncommitted units (reserves).

• With additional antitank assets.
• By moving artillery to weight the battle.

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LINKUP OPERATIONS
When withdrawal of an air assault force from the objective area is not planned or feasible, a linkup
operation is conducted to join two forces. An air assault force may participate as part of a larger
force, or it may conduct a linkup with its own resources. Close coordination and detailed planning
between the commanders of both units are essential.

RIVER CROSSING OPERATIONS

Air assault forces may reduce CSS considerations during river crossing operations by—

• Flying over the river.

• Supporting bridge construction.
• Deploying reconnaissance units by air to verify and collect essential intelligence on crossing
sites and enemy dispositions.
• Reaching objectives on the far shore quickly, eliminating enemy interference with development
and use of crossing sites.
• Rapidly airlifting engineer bridging assets forward, eliminating traffic problems on the crossing
site approaches.

If a deliberate crossing is chosen, the air assault force, with its increased mobility, can be used to
clear the near shore of enemy resistance. During the actual crossing, whether hasty or deliberate,
the air assault force can assist by—

• Attacking enemy forces that interfere with the crossing by seizing objectives that would be
secure or assisting in securing the bridgehead.
• Providing flank security.
• Securing crossing sites with or without smoke.

REAR AREA OPERATIONS

Air reconnaissance can provide wide-area surveillance and security and can be integrated
into reaction force plans. Rear area operations are coordinated with the designated rear area
commander. The air assault force, as a potential reaction force, can be called upon to contain
the enemy force if it does not have enough combat power to destroy it. Other forces would then
be called upon to destroy the enemy.

The air assault force also monitors likely infiltration routes and probable target areas for enemy
attacks from the rear in order to counter enemy airmobile, airborne, or guerrilla infiltration threats.

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NIGHT AND LIMITED VISIBILITY OPERATIONS

A commander may desire to take advantage of the cover of darkness to gain maximum surprise or
deception, maintain the momentum of successful operations, reinforce or withdraw committed
units, and/or deploy maneuver support elements. The following aircraft operational requirements
must be considered during night or limited visibility operations:

• Desired directions and routes of movement for aircraft, to include identification of selected ter-
rain features.
• The identity and location of LZs and/or PZs.
• Emergency ground-to-ground signals.
• Directions and points of landing for aircraft.
• Electronic and visual navigation aids identify presence of LZ obstacles.
• Illumination level.
• Moon phase/angle.
• Cultural lighting.
• Effects of shadows.

Some advantages of limited visibility operations areas are as follows:

• Aircraft are partially concealed from enemy visual observation.

• Maximum surprise and confusion can be achieved.
• Continuous pressure can be exerted on the enemy.
• Effective enemy air defense fire and interdiction by enemy aircraft are diminished.

However, disadvantages—the need for more elaborate control measures and the caution
required by both aviators and troops slows operations—of limited visibility operations also
exist. These disadvantages may be overcome with the proper equipment, constant training,
and a thorough knowledge of techniques. The following factors should be considered during
limited visibility operations:

• More time is required for planning, preparing, and executing.

• Flight formations are more difficult and the formations are more dispersed.
• LZs/PZs should be larger.
• Navigation is more difficult.
• Additional illumination is planned and must be immediately available in case it is necessary for
mission accomplishment.

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OPERATIONS IN A CHEMICAL,
BIOLOGICAL, RADIOLOGICAL, AND NUCLEAR ENVIRONMENT
In the event of a nuclear attack, air assault forces can conduct a radiological survey and, when
feasible, move into the target area after the explosion to stall enemy exploitation of its effect. Air
assault forces can rapidly and safely bypass obstacles created by a nuclear strike, whether their
objective is within or beyond the target area.

When planning air assault operations in conjunction with friendly nuclear munitions employment,
the planner must consider the—

• Effects of intense light on pilot vision.

• Effects of intense heat on equipment and personnel.
• Effects of blast waves on aircraft in flight.
• Residual radiation rates on the LZs/PZs.
• Utilization of LZs/PZs; however, debris may prohibit their use.
• Effects of electromagnetic pulse on electronic equipment.
• Selection of approach and retirement lanes into possible contaminated LZs.
• Use of alternate LZs if primary zones have too high a residual radiation rate.

Planning for air assault operations in a toxic environment also includes reconnaissance of
areas known or suspected of contamination, election of routes and positions with regard to
contaminated areas to avoid stirring up or spreading agents with rotor wash, and protection of
supplies and equipment. The three principles of CBRN operations (contamination avoidance,
protection, and decontamination) are fundamental to survival during air assault operations
conducted in a CBRN environment.

If air assault operations must be conducted following contamination, the air assault force may
direct that a hasty (spot) decontamination of aircraft be accomplished. Decontamination reduces the
hazard of agent contact and transfer. Spot decontamination is an effective means of decontaminating
specific areas of an aircraft. This sustains flight operations since certain functional areas are treated
before they are touched. Surfaces must be washed with decontaminants to flush agents off the
aircraft’s exterior. Small amounts of the CBRN agent (absorbed into the fuselage paint) will
probably remain after decontamination. The evaporation of these residues can create a vapor hazard;
therefore, personnel in and around the aircraft should continue to wear protective masks and gloves.
The CBRN personnel are trained in spot decontamination procedures but may require equipment
and support to effect all required decontamination quickly.

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CHAPTER 5
COMBAT SUPPORT

The MAGTF commander requires a complete understanding of MAGTF concepts in order to

appropriately use combat support to enhance the combat power of the maneuver element. Combat
support units are normally in direct support of the air assault force to ensure the close coordination
and continuous, dedicated support required in air assault operations.

Combat support is organized under the GCE’s command and control. In most cases, it is the
GCE commander who assigns combat support units their specific missions. The GCE commander
also task-organizes combat support units for movement and assigns support relationships for
subordinate maneuver units. In some situations, combat support units are attached to the GCE.

The commander of the combat support unit must be both a commander and a special staff officer.
The commander of the combat support unit will provide advice and assistance to the GCE, the
MAGTF commander, and the MAGTF staff. The combat support unit commander serves as a
special staff officer during the planning phase of an operation, providing assistance and advice
in the preparation of the operation order (OPORD) and can also provide limited advice and
assistance during the conduct of the operation, but the primary concern is command of the unit.

FIRE SUPPORT
Fire support is the collective and coordinated employment of mortars, artillery (to include
multiple launch rocket systems and High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems [HIMARSs]), attack
helicopters, CAS, naval gunfire, and other fires in support of the battle. It also includes SEAD,
which is imperative in air assault operations. The mission of a fire support system is to destroy,
neutralize, or suppress surface targets in support of air assault operations. The commander
integrates the firepower of mortars, artillery, CAS, EW, and, when available, naval gunfire,
with the maneuver of the air assault force’s combat power to—

• Destroy, suppress, and neutralize targets.

• Obscure the vision of enemy forces.
• Isolate enemy formations and positions.
• Slow and canalize enemy movements.
• Destroy, delay, disrupt, or limit the enemy at ranges greater than that of direct fire weapons.
• Screen with smoke or create obstacle areas with the employment of scatterable mines.
• Reduce the effects of enemy artillery by active counter fire.

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• Interdict follow-on enemy echelons.

• Provide illumination.

To effectively utilize fire support assets, the air assault force must understand artillery support
relationships. The artillery commander commands the unit and serves as a special staff officer to
the AFC during operational planning and preparation. If the task force is operating independently,
it may be necessary to attach an artillery unit to provide adequate fire support. Attachment is a
nonstandard mission and involves special considerations for the task force commander, such as
the responsibility to provide security, logistic support, and lift capability to the artillery unit.

Fire Support Coordinator

While the AFC is responsible for the integration of all fires within the scheme of maneuver, the
FSC is the principal assistant for the proper integration and application of fire support. The EFL
and all FAC(A)s must work closely with the FSC during planning in order to ensure unity of effort
and understanding during the operation. The commander and the FSC generate the maximum
combat power available to support the air assault operation.

Fire Support Delivery Means

The air assault force is unique in its mission, organization, and support elements; therefore,
mission commanders must tailor the planned fire support for an air assault operation specifically
for that mission. Indirect fire assets must be maneuverable and capable of maintaining the rapid
pace of the air assault force. The fire support delivery means available to support the air assault
force may include the following:

• Mortars, organic to each rifle company and infantry battalion, that provide close-in fire support.
• Artillery that must either be positioned well forward to provide fires from the PZ to the
objective area or must be air lifted with the air assault force to the objective.
• Supporting air defense units that can provide air defense support if the situation demands and
the MAGTF commander directs.
• CAS will that be available to provide support. Preplanned missions should be used to the
maximum extent possible. The CAS aircraft can be used to screen approach and retirement
lanes. Because of their mobility and firepower, attack helicopters may be integrated into the fire
support plan when other fire support means are not available.

Note: Mission priority for attack helicopters is to escort transport aircraft.

• Naval gunfire spot teams that may be attached to the air assault force if naval gunfire is available.

FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING AND COORDINATION

Fire support planning addresses how fire support is to be used to support maneuver forces. Fire
support coordination entails those actions needed to implement plans and manage resources on
the battlefield. Although planning and coordination are separated, they overlap and are mutually

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supporting in the fire support process. The planning and coordination process begins when the
mission is received or assumed. If planning is successful, then implementation (coordination) of
the plan gives the mission commander the support needed to win. For more discussion on fire
support planning and coordination, see Marine Corps Tactical Publication (MCTP) 3-10F, Fire
Support Coordination in the Ground Combat Element.

Since air assault operations may often be conducted beyond the range of artillery support, the range
of supporting artillery is an initial consideration when planning air assault operations. If an air
assault operation is beyond the range of artillery support, planners must consider prepositioning
artillery forward prior to the assault or planning for additional fire support (e.g., naval gunfire, CAS,
attack helicopters) until direct support artillery can move into the area of operation.

The following factors should be considered during planning:

• LZ preparations may be fired in support of an air assault.

• Preparations are directed against known, suspected, or likely enemy positions dominating the
LZ or on the zone itself.
• The effect of fire on creating obstacles to friendly forces during landing or maneuver.
• Whether the effect of the preparation justifies loss to tactical surprise or affords the enemy
sufficient time to change tactical disposition.
• The use of fire support on the LZ itself to detonate mines/boobytraps or to reduce obstacles.
• Firing of dummy preparations to deceive the enemy.
• Possible conflict between gun-target lines and aircraft approach lanes.
• Availability of both fire support units and ammunition.
• Fires must be planned to support the consolidation of the LZ and subsequent operations.
• SEAD during both the approach and retirement of air assault aircraft is fundamental to their
success and survival.

Formal and Informal Planning

A formal/informal planning approach at the air assault force level is a combined process
that uses the principles of both formal (downward) and informal (upward) planning. Initially,
the FSC disseminates, in the OPORD, a fire support plan to support the force. The fire support
coordination plan is modified as company plans are received. The rewritten fire plan is
disseminated to supporting arms systems for execution.

Displacement of Fire Support

During the planning for an air assault operation, the FSC must consider the possibility of
displacement of fire support assets, such as supporting artillery. If artillery can support the air
assault force’s movement from a secure area (without displacing forward) then it does so. If such
support is not feasible, the FSC determines if other fire support is sufficient to accomplish the
mission. If other support is not sufficient, it may be necessary to displace the artillery into the
objective area. Once the decision to displace is made, the following must be considered:

• Displacement is accomplished by echelon to prevent temporary loss of artillery support.

• Artillery requires security in the objective area.

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• Artillery will depend on assault support assets for mobility since the M777A2 prime mover
(e.g., MK23 and MK25) is not air transportable.
• The CH-53 will be required to displace the artillery tubes and light vehicles.
• Ammunition resupply will probably have to be done by air.
• Supporting artillery must be available.

Enemy Air Defense Capabilities

In air assault operations, SEAD is a critical fire support task because assault support aircraft are
especially vulnerable to enemy air defense; therefore, SEAD must be addressed during planning.
Unless there are overriding tactical considerations, enemy air defense positions should always be
avoided. If enemy air defense positions cannot be avoided, they must be aggressively suppressed.
Suppression of enemy air defense may be executed either as scheduled fires, based on a specific
timetable, or SEAD may be fired on call, based on the movement of the air assault force through
predetermined approach and retirement lanes or across predetermined phase lines.

The FSC ensures that all flight routes and suspected enemy air defense artillery sites are targeted
with preplanned fires. The FSC may be located with the mission commander and requires a
dedicated fire direction net in order to control the lifting and/or shifting of SEAD fires as directed
by the mission commander. Fixed-wing or rotary-wing aircraft providing escort suppresses enemy
air defenses encountered en route.

Fire Support Coordination

Fire support coordination ensures that targets are adequately covered by a suitable weapon or
group of weapons. Some typical fire support coordination tasks include—

• Clearing requests for fire support.

• Selecting the best supporting arms to attack a target.
• Requesting additional fire support when needed.
• Responding to intelligence reports by requesting supporting arms to attack high-payoff
targets (HPTs) and high-value targets.
• Coordinating the simultaneous use of different supporting arms, particularly aircraft and
surface weapons.
• Synchronizing fires in support of maneuver elements.

The FSC ensures that the developed plan remains supportable. The FSC must immediately inform
the commander or the S-3 if there is not enough fire support allocated to make the plan work or if
changes are necessary to the plan. To do this, the FSC must be located forward with the command
group during the conduct of the air assault operation. For example, when a C2 aircraft is used, the
FSC normally flies with the mission commander.

The FSC keeps abreast of the tactical situation and coordinates all fire support impacting the air
assault operation. The FSC ensures that fires do not jeopardize troop safety, interfere with other
fire support means, or disrupt adjacent unit operations. During conduct of the operation, shifts
in priorities of fire, changes to the fire plan to support a change in scheme of maneuver, and
immediate CAS are all handled by the FSC who, in close conjunction with the S-3 and air officer,

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coordinates fire control activities of the air assault force. Fire support is controlled by maneuver
units. Additionally, all air officers and FACs are trained to call for and adjust indirect fires. The
FAC(A)s and TAC(A)s can assist the air assault force in coordinating or adjusting indirect fires
since their location may allow them to see the battlefield. During planning, a fire synchronization
meeting should be conducted to synchronize the method paragraph of each essential fire support
task (EFST). Refer to appendix N for more information on the fire synchronization meeting.
After more detailed planning and after the fire synchronization meeting, a combined arms
rehearsal should be conducted so all fire support agencies can conduct a walkthrough by EFST
and/or by stage of the fire support plan. Refer to appendix M for more information on the
combined arms rehearsal.

ARTILLERY SUPPORT OF AIR ASSAULT OPERATIONS

The air assault force fights both offensive and defensive battles. Therefore, its organizational
tactics, which emphasize the use of artillery and aerial mobility and flexibility, require special
planning considerations for employment. The special planning considerations required for
artillery air assault operations are—

• Artillery and other support systems ranges.

• Target importance.
• Airlift assets.
• Risk in crossing lines.
• Target location.
• PZs and/or LZs.
• Ammunition.
• Communications.
• Security.
• Capabilities.

Artillery and Other Support Systems Ranges

Air assault operations typically occur over extended distances; therefore, the FSC must position
fire support systems so they can range (place fire) and mass (concentrate fire) on targets within the
air assault area of operation. If the force must operate out of artillery range, there is a greater
dependence on CAS and mortars.

Target Importance
Artillery is positioned to range those targets considered critical to the maneuver commander. For
high-value targets, the mission commander and the FSC may consider moving artillery by aircraft
to strike deep in the enemy’s rear by firing across the FLOT or displacing laterally in sector.

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Airlift Assets
The air movement of artillery requires a heavy use of air assets. Commanders must consider the
total cost of moving not just the howitzers, ammunition, and personnel, but also the maintenance
and supplies needed to sustain the air-delivered artillery. These total costs must include
appropriate survivability moves.

Risk in Crossing Lines

A major consideration in planning the movement of artillery in air assault operations is the risk
in crossing enemy lines/positions. The value of the target is weighed against the chances of
survivability. Once the risk of moving artillery by aircraft is considered, the S-3 and FSC must
evaluate the survivability of the artillery unit while on the ground and during extraction from the
firing area.

Target Location
Artillery movement in air assault operations requires pinpoint LZ and target locations. Accuracy
of locations determines accuracy of fires and targets are often engaged with unobserved fires.

Pickup Zones and/or Landing Zones

Artillery displacements require PZs and LZs large enough to position equipment. When the
artillery unit arrives at the LZ, it must be secure and capable of providing the unit with individual
gun positions.

Ammunition
The amount of available ammunition has a major impact on artillery support in air assault
operations. When planning indirect fire support, the FSC must consider the amount of
ammunition required and the availability of transportation assets. Artillery ammunition supply
operations place a significant burden on aviation assets available to the air assault force.

Communications
In the employment of artillery in air assault operations, the ability to maintain communications is
a requirement. The supporting unit must be within radio range of the supported unit to receive the
call for fire (especially when positioning the M777A2 with its maximum range of 30 km); unless
unavoidable, firing batteries must be within communications range of their parent battalion.

Security
During air assault operations, artillery relies on terrain positioning and infantry for security.

Capabilities
Marine Corps artillery units have the M777A2 an air transportable fire support system, which is
the only howitzer in the MAGTF inventory. The M777A2 has a nonrocket assisted projectile
range of 18,100 meters and its range extends to 30,000 meters with a rocket-assisted projectile.
Marine Corps forces can also anticipate the presence of multiple launch rocket systems and
HIMARS firing in general support. These weapons can range from 14 to 84 km with rockets
and 100 to 300 km with the Army tactical missile systems. The CH-53E can lift the M777A2;
however, the prime mover (medium tactical vehicle replacement series MK23 and MK25) is not
air transportable.

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AIR DEFENSE IN AIR ASSAULT OPERATIONS

Air assault operations conducted in areas of the battlefield where the MAGTF does not enjoy air
superiority will be difficult. Air superiority, according to the DOD Dictionary, is “that degree of
dominance in the air battle by one force that permits the conduct of its operations at a given
time and place without the prohibitive interference from air and missile threats.” Therefore,
the effective use of limited MAGTF air defense assets becomes an important consideration in
planning and executing air assault operations. Since the number and type of air defense systems
that can accompany an air assault force are limited, and because assault support aircraft are
vulnerable to attacking aircraft and enemy ground-based air defense weapons, intelligence
information must be reliable. The commander must consider the feasibility of using assault
support aircraft as the tactical situation changes. In addition to employing active air defenses,
air assault forces must maximize the use of passive air defense measures, such as flying at night,
using terrain flight techniques, and using dispersed flight formations.

Capabilities
Ideally, effective offensive antiair warfare (AAW) operations and the MAGTF’s integrated air
defense system (IADS) provide air superiority throughout the MAGTF’s area of responsibility.
The ACE commander attempts to establish an IADS that provides an air defense umbrella over
the entire battlefield. Some air assault operations have LZs in areas that cannot be adequately
covered by the MAGTF’s existing IADS; therefore, it will be necessary to provide the air assault
unit with air defense assets specifically designated for the operation.

The scope of the operation and the air threat, as well as the availability of air defense assets,
determines the type of air defense assets provided to the air assault unit. In addition to dedicated
air defense systems and air-to-air capable aircraft, commanders should consider the air defense
capabilities of their unit’s organic small arms and crew-served weapons. These weapons provide
an excellent low altitude air defense capability. The key to the employment of these weapons
against low-flying aircraft is coordinated, high-volume fire. See MCRP 3-10A.3, Marine Rifle
Squad, for more information concerning the use of organic small arms and crew-served weapons
in an air defense role.

The employment principles for air defense weapons are essentially the same for air assault
operations as for other operations. Command and support relationships between air defense units
and supported arms must be clearly defined. These relationships are modified, as necessary, as the
operation progresses. MCRP 3-20F.8, Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion Handbook, provides a
complete description of command and support relationships, as well as the steps a commander
should take in establishing an effective air defense plan.

Planning Considerations
As part of the air assault operation planning process, the MAGTF commander and major
subordinate commanders develop an air defense plan that supports the operation. The goal of the
air defense plan is to provide continuous air defense coverage for the air assault force from the

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time it leaves the PZs until it completes its mission. Commanders consider the following during
development of the air defense plan:

• The MAGTF CONOPS.

• The MAGTF commander’s air defense priorities based on evaluation of each asset for
criticality, recuperability, and vulnerability. See MCRP 3-20F.8 for a complete discussion
of this evaluation process.
• Threat characteristics are used to determine the appropriate air defense systems to defend the
specific asset. Those characteristics are—
—Enemy location and strength.
—Type of enemy aircraft and ordnance.
—Past enemy attack characteristics.
—Enemy doctrine.
• The tactical and technical capabilities and limitations of each MAGTF air defense systems.
• Aircraft employed in an active air defense role must be maneuverable.
• Surface-to-air missile systems’ (i.e., the Stinger) nighttime engagement capabilities are
marginal without NVDs. Poor weather and limited visibility also limit a surface-to-air missile
systems’ usefulness.
• Terrain limits tactical defense alert radar capabilities by causing radar masking. Tactical
defense alert radar-equipped units should be located to minimize radar masking, while
reducing signature problems (smoke, electronic, visual) as much as possible.
• Terrain and weather impact both the enemy and the effectiveness of the MAGTF’s air
defense weapons.
• Stinger team firing positions (primary and alternate) should provide ready access to the organic
vehicle. Stinger teams require good mobility to ensure their survivability, especially after
conducting an engagement that reveals their position.
• Widely-dispersed, highly-mobile air defense units under an IADS require centralized command
by the ACE commander through the Marine air command and control system (MACCS),
decentralized control (down to the lowest possible echelon), and reliable communications.

Assault Support Aircraft in Support of Air Defense Operations

In addition to supporting air assault operations, Stinger units can use aircraft to occupy firing
positions that are normally not accessible by wheeled or tracked vehicles. Using aircraft, Stinger
units can easily cross terrain obstacles and rapidly bypass hostile areas. In addition to standard
vertical employment methods, the use of repelling, fast rope, and special patrol insertion and
extraction techniques can greatly enhance a Stinger unit’s ability to provide effective air defense
for supported units. Using these techniques, Stinger teams can quickly deploy to sites on hilltops
and other terrain features that lack adequate areas for helicopter LZs. These sites can give Stinger
teams increased surveillance and overwatch capabilities, allowing them to detect and engage
hostile aircraft at the maximum range of the Stinger system.

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When positioning Stinger units via aircraft, commanders must consider their relative lack of
mobility once they debark. Because Stinger launch signatures are highly visible, the enemy can
easily locate the firing positions from which the missiles are launched. After firing, Stinger units
located in particularly vulnerable positions must quickly displace to alternate firing positions.
Without their organic vehicles, Stinger units are extremely susceptible to enemy counterattacks.

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CHAPTER 6
COMBAT SERVICE SUPPORT

The HST provides CSS to air assault operations. Combat service support for air assault operations
must be planned, organized, and executed to support a rapid tempo in highly-mobile and widely-
dispersed operations. Just as the air assault unit is tailored to move by air, CSS must be tailored to
sustain the air assault unit by air. Therefore, planners must be prepared to adapt and to be
innovative with available resources.

HELICOPTER SUPPORT TEAM

The air assault unit is supported by organic, attached, and external LCE units organized to
push forces, supplies, material, and ammunition forward by air. The primary CSS organization
within the air assault unit is the HST. The HST is a task organization formed and equipped
for employment in an LZ in order to facilitate the landing and movement of air assault troops,
equipment, and supplies to and within the LZ and PZ and to evacuate selected casualties and
POWs. The HST supports actions in the LZ under the control of the PZ control officer, who
supports the actions conducted in the PZ. The functioning of the HST is the responsibility of
the air assault unit commander. A HST is expected to accomplish the following tasks:

• Prepare, maintain, and mark LSs, remove or mark obstacles, and set up wind direction indicators.
• Establish and maintain required communications, including communications with supporting
aircraft and supporting CSS units.
• Reconnoiter and select areas adjacent to LSs for supply dumps and other CSS installations,
HST command posts, CASEVAC stations, and defensive positions.
• Provide LZ security.
• Direct and control aircraft operations within the LZ and support aviation units landing in
the zone.
• Provide sites for emergency aircraft repair units and refueling facilities.
• Unload assault support aircraft (including external lifts).
• Load cargo nets, pallets, and casualties on board for return trips.
• Establish dumps, issue supplies to units, and maintain necessary records of supplies received,
issued, and available.
• Provide personnel and vehicle ground control.
• Maintain situation map and information center.
• Provide emergency aircraft repair and refueling, if required.

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• Evacuate casualties and POWs.

• Perform firefighting duties in the LZ.

Helicopter Support Team Organization

The HST is a task-organized unit composed of personnel and equipment of the air assault force
and the supporting aviation unit, with augmentation from other units as required. The HST
organization is determined by the operation. Normally, the HST is employed in each PZ and LZ
to provide support to units operating in and around those zones. The HST normally consists of
an advance party, headquarters, helicopter control element, and LZ platoon.

Advance Party. The advance party contains personnel from all elements of the HST: command,
reconnaissance, communications, and LZ control. It consists of approximately 8 to 10 Marines
with hand-carried equipment. The officer in charge of the advance party makes contact with the
senior Marine of the reconnaissance unit who provided the ITG, and then receives a briefing of
the LZ and adjacent areas. The officer in charge of the advance party assumes operational control
over the HST reconnaissance unit and retains this control until the helicopter control element
of the HST assumes responsibility for rotary-wing control activities. Advance party personnel
reconnoiter positions for the various LSs and landing points to be located within the LZ.
Communications personnel establish communications with the HST commander (or air assault unit
tactical-logistical group during amphibious operations) within the LZ, as well as communications
with the rotary-wing unit and the air assault force command post. The LZ control personnel control
the rotary-wing aircraft operating within the LZ. When the HST is established in the LZ, the advance
party disbands and its personnel revert to their parent element within the HST.

Helicopter Support Team Headquarters. An adequately trained supporting element of the parent
MAATF’s headquarters may be provided to the air assault unit when no CSS buildup is planned or
from the LCE for when a CSS buildup is planned. When a CSS buildup is planned, providing
landing support personnel to the air assault unit to form the HST headquarters facilitates the
transfer of control of the LZ to the CSS unit when the CSS buildup commences. The HST
headquarters consists of—

• A command section provided by the appropriate platoon headquarters, augmented as required.

• A communications section provided by the communications platoon of the air assault unit or
the communications platoon, headquarters and service company, landing support battalion
as appropriate.
• A military police section consisting of personnel from the military police company, division
headquarters battalion or headquarters and service battalion, Marine logistics group,
as appropriate.
• A security section provided by the air assault unit to provide internal security.
• An evacuation section provided by the medical section of the air assault unit.
• An HST liaison section normally accompanies the headquarters element of the air assault unit.

Other MAGTF Support

The HST is task-organized to provide responsive support to an air assault force. To complete its
mission, the HST performs many diverse tasks in HST operations, which are normally performed

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by different organizations within the MAGTF. The MAGTF contributes to the mission of HST
operations by providing personnel and equipment. The MAGTF organizations and the normal
responsibilities of those organizations that support the HST are as follows:

• The air assault unit provides overall command and control of the HST and integrates HST
operations into the tactical order.
• The MAGTF command element provides the required direction and support to the air assault
unit.
• The MAGTF S-2 provides the intelligence necessary to plan the lift and to conduct a
reconnaissance of the proposed LZ.
• The ACE provides the aircraft/aircrew, air control, and other support elements that are required
by the mission.
• The GCE provides attachments, detachments, and fire support as necessary to support the air
assault unit.
• The LCE provides attachments and detachments to the air assault unit as necessary to ensure all
CSS requirements beyond the organic capabilities of the air assault unit are met.

COMBAT SERVICE SUPPORT PLANNING

Before planning CSS for air assault operations, commanders and CSS personnel must understand
the inherent characteristics of air assault operations. Based on this understanding, they will
implement CSS with the flexibility and prompt response time required to meet the needs of
an air assault operation. There are key points and specific points about air assault operations
that must be understood before any detailed discussion of CSS planning can commence.

Key Points
The CSS planner must understand the following key points of air assault operations:

• Air assault operations are inherently complex evolutions, requiring detailed integration of all
MAGTF capabilities: aviation, ground, and logistics.
• To be effective, air assault operations must be planned and executed rapidly to exploit transient
enemy vulnerabilities as they occur. The MAGTF must be able to exploit these vulnerabilities
before the enemy can take corrective action.
• The MAGTF organizations must be trained, mentally prepared, and have SOPs in place in
anticipation of the opportunity to exploit an enemy vulnerability. When the vulnerability occurs
and the opportunity presents itself, the MAGTF must be capable of timely action.
• Accurate and timely intelligence is critical. Placing an air assault force in the wrong place at the
wrong time can result in loss of personnel, equipment, and opportunities.

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Specific Points
The specific points that need to be understood by the CSS planner are as follows:

• To ensure unity of effort during an air assault operation, all MAGTF units that will move to and
remain in the objective area are initially attached or placed in direct support to the air assault
unit. The initiating headquarters of the OPORD specifies when or under what conditions
control of units attached to the air assault unit passes back to the parent organizations.
• Confusion that disrupts the rapid buildup of combat power into the objective area can prove to
be fatal. One way to avoid confusion is to form an HST for all tactical air assault operations to
ensure a rapid, organized, and efficient buildup of balanced combat power in the objective area.
• An HST operation in support of an air assault operation is the responsibility of the MAATF.
The AFC receives support and augmentation from the other MAGTF organizations to form an
HST, but the responsibility for the execution of all HST tasks remains with the AFC.
• Personnel of the division or force reconnaissance units normally provide terminal guidance for
the initial assault waves. Initial terminal guidance is especially critical for night air assault
operations. Once established in the LZ, the HST assumes responsibility for aircraft terminal
guidance and the AFC or higher headquarters, as appropriate, assigns reconnaissance personnel
follow-on missions.
• The HST operations are normally terminated when the air assault unit no longer depends on
rotary-wing support as the primary means of CSS support or when a planned CSS buildup
ceases in the LZ.
• The air assault unit and units that provide attachments to the air assault units are responsible for
preparing, rigging (attaching slings), and hooking up (to the aircraft) their organic equipment and
supplies for external aircraft lift. This capability is acquired and maintained through training.
• Within the MAGTF, slings and cargo nets used for external vertical lifts are centrally controlled
and managed by the landing support unit. Landing support units provide training assistance in
LZ operations to include external lifts to MAGTF units.
• The role of landing support units in support of the MAATF varies depending on the air
assault unit’s mission. The landing support unit may be tasked by the AFC with complete
responsibility for the organization and functioning of LZs/PZs or the assigned tasks may
be limited to providing materials handling equipment and personnel, and to providing and
controlling slings for external lifts when required.
• Understanding the difference between a CSS buildup and a basic load is critical.

Planning Considerations
It is imperative that the air assault unit and supporting CSS units coordinate closely during the
planning of air assault operations from the initial stages onward. Concurrent planning ensures that
all requirements and constraints of CSS are considered. It also provides the lead time necessary to
organize and position the CSS resources required to support the operation. The HST is an essential
link between the operational scheme and the CSS plan. Close and continuous coordination between
the air assault unit and the supporting CSS unit ensures adequate CSS throughout the operation. To
organize CSS for air assault operations, the CSS planner must consider the following:

• The air assault unit’s mission and the CONOPS and duration of the operation.
• The CSS buildup, if planned.

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• The task organization (including densities of personnel, weapon systems by type, equipment by
type, and aircraft by type).
• Enemy situation, weather, and terrain.
• Aircraft availability and distances between supporting and supported units.
• Ammunition, water, food, and aviation fuel consumption rates.

Combat service support planning must ensure that CSS is provided, not only for the organic and
attached elements of the air assault unit, but also for units providing direct and general support.
The air assault unit is responsible for planning CSS for its organic and attached units. The higher
headquarters that initiates the air assault operation is responsible for coordinating CSS planning of
units that provide direct and general support to the air assault unit. This planning must expressly
designate who will provide combat support to all participating units throughout the air assault
operation. When an attachment joins the air assault unit, the attachment brings the appropriate
amounts of its own CSS assets from its parent unit. These attached assets are controlled by
the AFC.

Basic Load Versus Combat Service Support Buildup

The basic load and the resupply of the basic load are not considered a CSS buildup. The unit
brings the basic load with it and when the basic load is depleted, its own unit performs resupply.
A CSS buildup takes place when supplies beyond the basic load are moved to the objective area.

Basic Load. An assault support aircraft moves an air assault unit, based on its mission, to the
objective area with the necessary personnel, equipment, and a basic load of consumable supplies
to accomplish the mission. The higher headquarters that assigns the mission to the air assault unit
also determines the air assault unit’s basic load. The basic load for all classes of consumable
supplies, except ammunition (class V), is expressed in days of supply (DOS). A DOS is the
amount of supplies a unit requires to sustain itself in combat for one day. For example, a DOS for—

• Food: three meals, ready to eat per individual.

• Water: 3 to 4 gallons per individual per day in a temperate zone, but amounts are higher in both
hot and cold climates.
• Fuel: the total fuel consumption of all equipment is specified in the table of authorized
material. Other supplies (e.g., sandbags, barbed wire, repair parts) are normally specified on the
unit SOP.

The basic load for ammunition has two parts: basic allowance and days of ammunition (DOA). The
basic allowance is the quantity of ammunition (number of rounds) the Marine Corps has specified
to be maintained by a unit for each weapon that unit employs in combat. A DOA is the total of the
standard consumption rates for each organic and attached weapon when employed in combat. A
DOA is further specified into an assault rate and a sustained rate. The assault rate, which is a higher
consumption rate than the sustained rate, is specified for units conducting offensive operations. The
sustained rate is specified when a unit is not conducting offensive operations. An example of a
unit basic load would be one DOA assault rate and one DOA sustained rate, two DOS. The basic
allowance is always a requirement, so it is implied and normally not stated. In addition to the basic
allowance, the unit in the example will carry a DOA calculated at the higher assault rate to cover
the initial assault and another DOA calculated at the sustained rate. The unit will also carry
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sufficient consumable supplies to sustain itself in combat for 2 days without resupply. The basic
load is issued to, controlled by, and carried by the air assault unit to the objective area. The basic
load is considered an organic supply to the air assault unit.

Combat Service Support Buildup. Movement of the air assault unit’s basic load to the objective
area and resupply of the basic load to maintain the specified supply level are not considered a CSS
buildup. A CSS buildup occurs when supplies above and beyond the basic load are moved to the
objective area. For example, if a supply safety level of one or two DOS/DOA is to be moved to
the objective area, this constitutes a CSS buildup. When a CSS buildup in an LZ commences, the
control of the LZ transitions from the air assault unit HST to the designated CSS unit and the LZ
is redesignated a LZ support area.

COMBAT SERVICE SUPPORT EXECUTION

The air assault force is normally configured to conduct the initial assault with 1 to 3 days of
accompanying supplies (basic load) to ensure some degree of self-sustainment. When the enemy
situation permits, resupply is accomplished by air on a routine basis to keep the basic load at the
prescribed level.

Combat Service Support Trains

The CSS trains for all air assault units must be organized, located, and controlled to facilitate the
consolidation, packaging, and air movement of the basic load into support packages configured to
unit size. Generally, the air movement of the battalion’s logistic train requires the same number of
aircraft needed to move a rifle company. The CSS trains that support an air assault unit work in
close coordination with the HST of that same air assault unit, but the HST and CSS trains are
usually separate organizations. Command and support relationships can be established between
the two organizations, but since the HST is a temporary organization and CSS trains are a
permanent organization, keeping the two separate promotes operational effectiveness. Certain
functions in the LZ, such as distribution of ammunition and other supplies, are initially
accomplished by the HST and will be assumed by CSS trains. Thus, supply personnel organic
to the air assault units that were initially assigned to the HST will transfer to the CSS trains
when the HST is disbanded.

The organization of CSS trains varies and is based on the air assault unit’s mission. The
CSS trains may be centralized in one location (unit trains), or they may be echeloned in two
or more locations (echeloned trains). In an air assault operation, CSS trains normally transition
between unit trains and echeloned trains.

Prior to the commencement and during the initial stages of an air assault operation, unit CSS trains
are employed in the vicinity of the PZ to prepare equipment and supplies for vertical lift and to
move items to the PZ. The HST takes over responsibility for final preparation and any further
movement. The HST is also responsible for the initial distribution of supplies at LZs in the
objective area.

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As elements of the air assault unit in the objective area move away from the LZ, elements of the
CSS trains are echeloned into the objective area. This forward echelon assumes responsibility for
receiving critical supplies contained in the unit’s basic load from the HST and moving them to the
elements of the air assault unit that have moved away from the LZ. This echelon also provides
maintenance contact teams and medical support in the objective area. The CSS trains remain
echeloned until such time that a CSS buildup commences, a CSS detachment from the MAGTF’s
LCE assumes responsibility for operation of the LZ, or the HST is disbanded. If a CSS buildup
commences, the responsibility for moving supplies to and issuing supplies from the LZ falls on
the MAGTF LCE. The entire CSS train in support of the air assault operation can be moved to the
objective area where it will form a unit train. As operations continue in the objective area, the
MAGTF commander may elect to echelon the CSS trains if CSS must be collocated with
maneuver units to provide immediate, dedicated support.

Supply
During the execution of CSS in support of an air assault operation, the following supply issues
should be considered:

• Small, frequent (as opposed to a few massive) replenishment of the ground and air elements. To
meet this requirement, it is necessary to have a comprehensive logistic plan.
• Supplies going forward from logistic trains must be staged and moved using methods that
reduce loading and unloading times. Palletized or external sling loads reduce ground time and
aircraft vulnerability because they can be unloaded quickly.
• Available equipment and personnel capabilities and the anticipated load configurations must be
considered when task-organizing the HST.
• The logistic plan must maintain a balance in the allocation of resources between the GCE and
the ACE. This is particularly significant if FARPs are employed.
• The ability to resupply via surface methods whenever air movement is not essential to the
achievement of the operational aim or if resupply by air is limited due to allocation, the enemy,
or the weather. This is particularly significant if FARPs are employed.

Maintenance
Maintenance involves inspecting, testing, servicing, repairing, requisitioning, rebuilding,
recovering, and evacuating equipment. Maintenance personnel do not normally accompany the
assault echelon.

During air assault operations, repair above the operator level is accomplished in one of two ways:
contact teams organic to the air assault unit or maintenance support teams from the supporting
CSS detachment may be flown forward to effect immediate repair of critical equipment or
deadlined and/or damaged equipment may be evacuated by air.

Field and Personnel Support Services

Field and personnel support services, such as messing and billeting, are an important part of the
overall support effort and continue during air assault operations; however, these services are
seldom a part of an air assault operation. Rather, they are normally accomplished in a rear area
outside the air assault objective area.

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Medical Support
The medical officer and the medical section of the air assault unit provide medical support. To
adequately support the mission, the medical officer and the chief assistant should be included in
all operational and/or tactical briefings. Medical support is planned and addressed in the
OPORD’s administrative and logistic annex. Medical planning should include—

• Location of the unit aid station in the objective area.

• Location of casualty collection points.
• Ground and air evacuation plans/routes.
• Location of the LCE medical facilities.
• Location of designated casualty receiving ships or stations.
• Procedures to request aviation CASEVAC (including communication instructions).

Casualty Evacuation
The primary means for CASEVAC is the assault support aircraft. Aircraft leaving the LZ and
returning to the rear area can be used to evacuate casualties. In-flight medical care is essential for
those casualties whose condition is serious and must be addressed during planning. If sufficient
aircraft are available, one or more aircraft may be designated as CASEVAC aircraft for the more
serious casualties who require in-flight medical treatment. The ACE can provide in-flight medical
treatment personnel if tasked from unit-assigned flight surgeons and corpsmen, but the ACE
does not possess or assign specifically trained in-flight medics to execute this role by a military
occupational specialty. If required, augmentation can be requested from the combat support
element. All casualties evacuated by aircraft are delivered to LCE medical treatment facilities or
designated casualty receiving ships, if available. It is important to note that medical evacuation
aircraft must be designated and properly marked to receive protections defined by the Geneva
Conventions. The Marine Corps does not possess medical evacuation aircraft. Marine Corps
aircraft perform a CASEVAC mission using available combatant aircraft to evacuate casualties.

Procedures related to CASEVAC are contained in the OPORD’s air and medical services annexes.
The medical services annex contains the medical criteria for requesting an aviation evacuation.
The air annex contains aviation-related requirements, such as communications channels, to
request air support and the procedures used to control the aircraft once it enters the unit area of
responsibility. Normally, a unit establishes an SOP that contains both the medical and aviation
aspects of CASEVAC and the SOP is referenced in both annexes.

The air assault unit establishes its unit and station near the LZ as soon as possible. During the initial
stages of the operation, when maneuver units are in close proximity to the LZ, all casualties are
moved to the unit aid station where minor wounds are treated and personnel return to duty if
possible. The more seriously wounded are moved to the LZ where the HST evacuates them by the
next available aircraft returning to the rear. Those casualties requiring in-flight medical attention are
held at the aid station until an aircraft with medical personnel is inbound to the LZ. As maneuver
units move further away from the LZ, it may become necessary to evacuate the more seriously
wounded directly from the maneuver unit if it is possible to land an aircraft near that unit.

The air assault unit, when necessary, requests CASEVAC from the DASC using the tactical air
request (TAR) net. The request is normally initiated at a battalion FSCC once a request from the
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battalion aid station or a subordinate unit is received. A subordinate unit that is accompanied by
a FAC may make a request over the TAR net directly to the DASC. The battalion FSCC, who is
monitoring the TAR net, may disapprove the request by interrupting the transmission and voicing
disapproval. Otherwise, silence is consent.

The DASC will pass all CASEVAC requests to the ACE’s tactical air command center, which
exercises launch authority. If given approval, they may divert airborne aircraft to perform the
CASEVAC. The aircraft, once airborne, receives instructions from the DASC concerning the
casualty, location of pickup, flight routes, who to contact, what radio frequency to use, and the
medical facility to which the casualty will be evacuated. The DASC coordination with the GCE
FSCC establishes a safe route through friendly fires for the aircraft.

The aircraft, when approaching the area where the air assault unit is operating, contacts the
FSCC of the requesting unit and receives final instruction. If the casualty pickup is made at
a forward unit, the FSCC instructs the aircraft as to the radio frequency on which to contact
that unit and informs the unit of the time of the aircraft’s arrival. The forward unit contacts the
aircraft by radio and provides terminal guidance instructions and information on the friendly and
enemy tactical situation.

When time permits, identification of the casualty is reported to the S-1 over the battalion
administrative and logistic net.

EXTERNAL LOAD OPERATIONS

Planning and executing external load operations that do not require a CSS buildup are the
responsibility of the AFC, even when the HST is provided by the landing support company.
Transporting supplies and ready for use equipment by aircraft external load (i.e., sling) has the
advantage of rapidly moving heavy, outsized, or urgently needed items directly to the using unit.

The logistic planner can enhance the sustainment of the air assault force by developing SOPs for
sling load operations. Detailed information on the rigging of equipment and supplies for external
lift by rotary-wing aircraft can be found in MCRP 3-40F.4, Multi-Service Helicopter Sling Load:
Basic Operations and Equipment, MCRP 3-40F.5, Single Point Load Rigging Procedures, and
MCRP 3-40F.6, Dual-Point Load Rigging Procedures.

External Load Considerations

External load considerations include—

• If cargo is too light or bulky, it will not fly properly when suspended under the aircraft at cruise
airspeeds.
• The external load must not exceed an aircraft’s lift (under given atmospheric conditions) or
hook capabilities. As outside air temperature and/or altitude increases, the payload capacity
of an aircraft decreases.
• Airspeeds may be slower when aircraft carry external loads.

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• Dust, sand, or snow, which would be blown during hover for pickup or delivery of cargo, may
preclude safe external load operations.
• Hovering to pick up or deliver a sling load during darkness is inherently more dangerous than
similar daylight operations.
• The availability of suitable sling, cargo nets, cargo bags, and other air delivery items may
preclude or limit external load operations.

Elements of an External Lift Mission

There are normally three different elements involved in an external lift mission: the PZ HST, the
LZ HST, and the aviation unit. The PZ HST is responsible for—

• Preparing and controlling the PZ.

• Repositioning all the equipment needed for external lift operations, including sling, A-22 bags,
cargo nets, and containers.
• Storing, inspecting, and maintaining all external lift equipment.
• Providing a sufficient number of trained HST crews for rigging and inspecting all the loads,
guiding the aircraft, hooking up the loads, and clearing the aircraft for departure.
• Securing and protecting sensitive items of supply and equipment.
• Providing load de-rigging and disposition instructions to the receiving unit.
• Providing disposition instructions to the receiving and aviation units for slings, A-22 bags,
cargo nets, and containers.

The LZ HST is responsible for—

• Preparing and controlling the LZ.

• Providing trained HSTs to guide the aircraft in and de-rig the load.
• Coordinating with the PZ HST for the control and return of the slings, A-22 bags, or any other
items that belong to the supported unit as soon as possible.
• Preparing, coordinating, and inspecting backloads (e.g., slings, A-22 bags) and having them
ready for hookup or loading.

The aviation unit is responsible for—

• Effecting and/or establishing coordination with the air assault unit.

• Advising the air assault unit on the limitations of the size and weight of the loads that may
be rigged.
• Advising the air assault unit on the suitability of the selected PZs/LZs.
• Providing assistance for the recovery and return to the PZ of the slings, A-22 bags, cargo nets,
and containers as required by the supported unit.
• Establishing safety procedures that ensure uniformity and understanding of duties and
responsibilities between the ground crew and the flight crew.

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AVIATION SUPPORT CONSIDERATIONS

Aviation units consume large amounts of fuel, ammunition, class IX supplies, and maintenance
support during intensive air assault operations. Although aviation units are responsible for
meeting their own unique logistic support requirements, the MAGTF planner must be aware
of the requirements, plan for them, and be prepared to assist as necessary.

Forward Arming and Refueling Points

Forward arming and refueling points are temporary facilities. They are organized, equipped, and
deployed by the ACE commander. The FARPs are positioned in or closer to the area of operations
than the aviation unit’s combat service area. The FARP permits combat aircraft to rapidly refuel
and rearm simultaneously. Forward arming and refueling points are—

• Established in the vicinity of the supported ground unit. Whenever possible, these will be
established behind the FLOT and out of range of the majority of enemy artillery units.
• Hasty and mobile FARPs are often established forward of the forward edge of the battle area/
FLOT. Because of their short duration and mobile nature, they are less likely to be targets of
enemy artillery and attack.
• Positioned to reduce turnaround time, thus optimizing aircraft availability.
• Repositioned frequently to avoid detection and destruction.
• Fully mobile, using ground vehicles and aircraft.
• Capable of performing refueling and rearming operations rapidly and efficiently.
• Defended from enemy ground and air attack.
• Concealed from observation.

Aircraft Maintenance
Aircraft have substantial maintenance requirements. However, maintenance is kept to a minimum
in the operational area. A method used to accomplish this and still have responsive maintenance is
to move aviation maintenance teams to the aircraft requiring repair when the repair is beyond the
capability of the aircraft crew. The ACE commander may assign aircraft maintenance teams to
accompany the flight or position them in PZs and LZs.

Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel

Heavy lift rotary-wing aircraft can be the recovery platform for downed aircraft in a CSS role,
exclusionary to a hasty TRAP-type mission. If an aircraft is forced to land on enemy terrain due to
mechanical problems or combat damage, every effort is made to protect the aircraft and personnel
until they can be evacuated. However, mission execution has priority over rescue and recovery
operations. The ACE commander is notified immediately of any downed aircraft. The ACE
commander takes action in accordance with unit SOPs to secure and recover personnel and
aircraft with resources or requests assistance from the MAGTF commander. The air assault unit or
other MAGTF unit may have to provide security for recovery teams. When an aircraft is downed,
the senior occupant assumes command and establishes a defense of the area or organizes evasive
action. If an aircraft is abandoned, steps are taken to destroy it to preclude its capture or the
capture of sensitive equipment or documents. The level of authority required to destroy the
aircraft is established in unit SOPs or in the OPORD.

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CHAPTER 7
EXECUTION OF AIR ASSAULT OPERATIONS

This chapter addresses the MAATF’s movement from the assembly area to the PZ and on to
the LZ. The air assault operation, during subsequent operations ashore, normally begins at an
assembly area. If subsequent lifts are required in the same operation, the procedures described
in this chapter are repeated.

This discussion is not all inclusive. Certain actions may have to be omitted or added according to
operational requirements. Planning starts from the assembly area and progresses through the final
objective. If any extraction is required, LZs in the vicinity of the objective area are determined
during the initial planning phase.

MOVEMENT FROM THE ASSEMBLY AREA TO THE LANDING ZONE

At the prescribed time, units move from the assembly area to the staging area via a route
designated by the AFC. A staging area must be:

• Covered and concealed.

• Sufficient size for the air assault force.
• Close to primary and alternate PZs.

Each unit commander notifies the PZ control officer upon his/her unit’s arrival in the staging area.
In the staging area, unit leaders separate the unit into serials according to the loading plan. Heavy
loads and external loads should not be programmed in initial waves. Offloading heavy internal
loads is time consuming and slows troop buildup.

Each serial includes a designated serial leader. The serial leader is usually the senior Marine on the
serial or aircraft and is responsible for briefing troops and inspecting the load. If multiple serials
are assigned to one aircraft, one serial leader should assume serial leader responsibilities for the
group of serials. The serial leader ensures that the load is organized and ready to be loaded as
planned. Upon arrival at the holding area, the PZ control party briefing includes the loading point
for primary and alternate PZs and the routes to those points. At a minimum, the serial leader briefs
the serial members on the following information:

• Loading procedures.
• Bump plan (individual/load bumps).
• Safety belt usage.

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• Preflight safety inspection of Marines.

• In-flight procedures.
• Downed aircraft procedures.
• Offloading procedures.
• Movement from the LZ.

PROCEDURES IN THE PICKUP ZONE/ORGANIZATION OF THE PICKUP ZONE

To the maximum extent possible, the PZ control officer lays out the PZ as directed in the plan.
Aviation elements arrive at the PZ in the formation directed in the plan to minimize confusion
during landing. Then, the PZ control officer, or HST personnel, assists in loading by ensuring
aircraft and personnel are in the proper location and formation at the correct time. If an aircraft
(scheduled for the lift) is unable to complete its mission due to mechanical failure, the PZ control
officer informs the unit commander, who implements the bump plan.

INFANTRY MOVEMENT TO THE PICKUP ZONE

The PZ control officer coordinates the arrival of both aircraft and troops so that the troops arrive at
their respective loading point just before the aircraft land. This prevents congestion, facilitates
security, and reduces vulnerability to enemy actions during PZ operations.

On the PZ control officer’s signal, serials move by designated routes from their staging area,
through the MACO gate, to their loading points/assigned aircraft in the PZ. The PZ control officer
may use schedules, messengers, hand-and-arm signals, light signals, or (as a last resort) radio to
order serials to move to the PZ.

AIRCRAFT MOVEMENT TO THE PICKUP ZONE

Aircraft begin movement to arrive in the PZ at the scheduled time. The PZ control officer contacts
the aviation unit if there is a PZ change. If there has been a change in allowable lift/load, number
of aircraft, or the landing formation, the AFL must contact the PZ control officer.

During air movement to the PZ, enemy antiaircraft or other fires may be encountered. Therefore,
air reconnaissance may be used to locate and suppress enemy positions prior to the arrival of the
air assault aircraft. Attack helicopters will not normally land in the PZ. When assault support
aircraft are to be on the ground for extended periods, attack helicopters may occupy holding areas
nearby or return to FARP sites. The C2 aircraft is positioned where the command group can see
and control critical events.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Strict radio discipline is maintained throughout the operation; radio silence should not be broken
unless absolutely necessary. Radio calls between aircraft are permitted only as a last resort when
other signals are not appropriate. Use of secure and frequency-agile (active) nets further reduces
the requirement for radio silence.

LIFT-OFF FROM THE PICKUP ZONE

When the assault support aircraft are loaded and ready for lift-off, the PZ control officer may
signal the flight leader using hand-and-arm or light signals. The AFL may signal other aircraft
by positioning lights from flashing to steady, or by a “ramps up” radio call rippled from the last
aircraft in the flight to the lead aircraft. If the PZ topography prevents visual contact with all
aircraft in the flight or line of sight (LOS) radio communications, a pre-briefed alternate method
may be used.

Lift-off should be at the time prescribed in the plan. However, aircraft will not loiter in the PZ.
If they are ready early, and fuel allows, they lift-off and alter speed so as to arrive at designated
locations at the appropriate times. This should place the first aircraft of the first lift in the LZ
at L-hour.

Lift-off may be by single aircraft or by wave. Under some conditions (e.g., dusty PZ, restricted
PZ, high density altitude and no wind), it is best to break waves into smaller elements. If LZ insert
is executed in a single wave, then simultaneous lift-off is preferred because—

• It is easier for the EFL to plan the scheme of maneuver and provide security en route for
aircraft depending on number of escort aircraft available.
• Operational control is easier.
• It reduces the enemy’s time to fire at the aircraft.
• The AFL adjusts the flight’s speed and rate of climb so all elements form into the en route flight
formation at the required altitude.

EN ROUTE TO THE LANDING ZONE

The AFL predetermines the en route flight speed. The AFL paces the flight to ensure the flight
crosses the line of departure on time.

Communication security is paramount. However, if directed in the order, flight leaders report
to the mission commander and C2 agencies as they pass each checkpoint, especially when
checkpoints are tied to triggers such as fires. Checkpoint information must be passed to the
serial leader.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Ground commanders, serial leaders, and aircraft crewmembers must remain oriented throughout
the flight. To remain oriented, they use the aircraft’s internal communications system, which
receives information updates from the aircrew, and they follow and verify the flight route using
terrain observation, maps, aircraft compass, and aircraft speed.

When a threat is encountered along the flight route which prohibits the air assault force from using
that route, the AFL requests the AMC or mission commander to modify or switch to alternate flight
routes. This authority may be delegated to the AFL. If the LZ needs to be changed, the AFC makes
the decision and informs the AMC or mission commander. The AMC and AFL may also be given
authority to change the LZ based on the enemy threat or hazardous environmental conditions.

SECURITY
Attack helicopters provide security for downed aircraft, route reconnaissance, and other assistance
en route as directed by the ACE commander. The ACE commander develops the plan for TRAP.

Fixed-wing aircraft or UASs may work with attack helicopters to provide security to the flank,
front, and rear of the assault support formations. When performing this role in a medium to high
threat environment, specially-equipped aircraft suppress or destroy surface-to-air missile sites and
radar-directed guns. Other fixed-wing aircraft or UAS may be used to selectively jam enemy radar
and communications signals using jamming transmitters or other methods.

When available, indirect fire weapons provide suppressive fires along the flight routes as planned
or as necessary.

LANDING OPERATIONS
Attack helicopters can be employed in various roles during landing operations. They may—

• Precede the assault element into the LZ for reconnaissance and/or provide suppressive fires to
prevent a time gap in LZ fires (provided by other support elements). The EFL also determines
if the LZ criteria (Winter) that will permit successful insertion of the air assault force exists.
This assessment is based on destruction criteria of threat forces established during planning.
• Recommend last minute changes regarding aircraft landing instructions.
• Provide area cover, neutralize known enemy positions, or provide security for assault aircraft
while in the LZ area.
• Observe ground approaches to the LZ for possible enemy attacks.

Nontraditional attack and ISR platforms, such as the KC-130J Harvest HAWK, MC-12W, and
UAS, can provide overwatch and fires in support of land operations in permissive or low threat

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

environments. These ISR platforms can provide persistent monitoring of the objective area and
LZ, threat detection, and ITG with infrared pointers to attack and assault support platforms.

COMMAND AND CONTROL AIRCRAFT

The C2 aircraft is positioned where it can best observe and communicate with the forward
elements. The mission commander determines where he/she can best influence the action by
either remaining in the C2 aircraft or by joining forces on the ground.

LANDING ZONE PREPARATORY FIRES

Preparatory fires are planned for all primary and alternate LZs. The decision to initiate LZ
preparatory fires is made by the mission commander. The mission commander can delegate this
authority to the AMC, EFL, AFC, FSC, or operations officer. The FSC should travel with the
ground commander to expedite fires and changes to preplanned fires. To the maximum extent
possible, fires are planned along all routes leading to the LZ. Planned fires should be intense and
should shift or lift shortly before the first elements land. In the development and sequencing of
fires, the following are considered:

• Deception fires, while not fired on the objective area, should still be fired against targets of
some tactical value; however, economy of force must be considered.
• Preparations of a long duration may reduce the possibility of surprise.
• The FSC considers the availability of fire support assets and coordinates their use with artillery
units. Preparations by fixed-wing aircraft are requested through the FAC(A).
• A known or suspected enemy force located in the vicinity of the LZ, regardless of size,
warrants LZ preparation if the LZ is to be used. The GO/NO GO criteria, LZ criteria, and
destruction criteria should be established based on the threat.
• Various types of ordnance used in preparation fires can cause obstacles to landing and
maneuver (e.g., craters, tree blowdown, fires, smoke, poor visibility) on and near the LZ.
• FSCMs must be established for lifting or shifting fires (e.g., restrictive fire line, restrictive
fire area).
• Resupply ammunition limitations.
• Rules of engagement (ROE).

Because CAS on-station time is limited by fuel and enemy air defenses, the sequencing of
supporting fires is carefully controlled by the FSC to obtain maximum, continuous support.
To ensure that all fire support assets are utilized at the correct time, the FSC is collocated with
the DASC and must be constantly informed as to the status of the flight. This allows fires to
coincide with the actual arrival of landing aircraft at the LZ.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Another method of continuing fire support is to shift indirect fires to one flank, conduct a
simultaneous air strike on another flank, and use attack helicopters to orient on the approach and
retirement lanes. This technique requires precise timing and aircraft formation navigation to avoid
flight paths of other aircraft and gun-target lines of indirect fire weapons.

LANDING TECHNIQUES
The air assault force should land as planned unless last minute changes in the tactical situation force
the mission commander to abort or alter the landing. The aircrew must make every effort to keep the
troops in their aircraft informed of the situation, especially of any changes to the original plan.

Planned ITG should be executed for the each landing to the maximum extent possible. Far ITG
will orient the flight on the LZ and near ITG will orient aircraft to the landing points. The ITG
should be provided for at least the lead aircraft in each flight, with each subsequent aircraft
forming off of the lead for landing at their designated points. The ITG should be planned for both
day and night conditions. As with any signal plan, all players should be aware of the ITG plan.

A simultaneous or near simultaneous landing is desired in order to place the maximum number
of troops on the ground, in a given area, in the shortest possible time. Individual aircraft landing
points are planned to disembark troops as close as possible to their initial positions. If ground
movement times are a factor, staggered waves or landing by element are used to reduce the LZ
size and the time required for ground movement. Refer to chapter 3 for discussion of insert tactics.

In most operations, if the situation permits, the operation is accomplished with a minimum
number of lifts, each with the maximum number of aircraft that the LZ will accommodate. This
reduces the exposure time of the aircraft, maintains unit integrity, provides maximum combat
power, and gives the enemy less time to react. When separate element landings are dictated
because of the LZ size, time intervals between elements are kept as short as possible. Detailed
planning determines the minimum time needed between waves of assault support aircraft,
facilitates the safe insertion of forces, and facilitates the CONOPS.

Troops are most vulnerable during landing; they disembark rapidly and deploy to carry out
assigned missions. Therefore, planning must maximize suppressive fires provided by assault door
guns during disembarkation.

The CASEVAC locations, referred to as casualty collection points, are designated in the LZ. If
possible, casualty collection points should be located so that there can be continuation of the insert
with simultaneous extract of CASEVACs.

At the LZ, leaders at all levels account for personnel and equipment and submit appropriate
reports to higher headquarters. Rapid movement out of the LZ to rally points will facilitate a
clear LZ for follow-on waves. Troops should either immediately move away from aircraft, or
immediately assume the prone position near the aircraft (e.g. hasty 180), in order to allow
unloaded aircraft to clear the LZ as soon as possible.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

The AFC may select rally points inside the LZ when—

• Expected enemy resistance required fire and movement from the LZ.
• Inserting into wide open areas with little cover or concealment available outside the LZ.
• Accountability is a significant concern due to adverse weather or low visibility.

The AFC may select rally points outside the LZ when—

• Expected enemy resistance allows assault forces to immediately egress the LZ.
• Covered or concealed positions are immediately available outside the LZ and/or not available
inside the LZ.
• Assault forces landing directly on the objective.

Key personnel killed, wounded, or missing are replaced according to unit SOP. Essential weapons
missing or out of action may require the force to reorganize. After the unit completes its
consolidation of the LZ, it reorganizes as necessary to carry out the ground tactical plan.

COMPLETION OF THE LANDING ZONE OPERATION

When the LZ operation is finished, aviation assets return by preselected routes to complete
subsequent lifts, conduct other operations, or refuel and remain in support of ground forces
(e.g., CASEVAC, immediate re-embarkation, emergency extract, resupply, TRAP).

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

APPENDIX A
AIR ASSAULT TRAINING

Air assault training must be integrated into unit programs on a routine basis to develop capability
at each level from squad through battalion. Commanders are responsible for their unit’s air assault
training. The objective is for units to conduct air assault operations with speed, precision, and
confidence. Infantry units, as well as other combat, support, and CSS units should routinely
receive such training.

A training program for air assault operations should include the critical individual and collective
skills necessary to accomplish the warfighting mission. Unit training should identify weaknesses
and train to correct those weaknesses.

SMALL-UNIT TRAINING
Standard, infantry small-unit tactics and techniques are the basis for the ground phase of air
assault operations. The commander ensures that all units are proficient in these tactics, and then
combines this training with training that is specific to air assault: staging, loading, air movement,
landing, and unloading. The commander emphasizes the rapid loading and unloading of aircraft,
as well as quickly organizing maneuver elements in the LZ to take advantage of the speed and
mobility of air assault operations.

The commander trains small-unit leaders to operate independent of their parent organization in
order to accomplish their part of the overall mission. Additionally, small-unit leaders must be able
to take charge in the absence of their seniors. The speed and complex nature of air assault
operations dictates the use of SOPs and battle drills.

MOBILITY
The commander trains units to travel light, consistent with the mission, taking only necessary
equipment and supplies.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

HELICOPTER EGRESS TRAINING

The Marine Corps Underwater and Intermediate Passenger Helicopter Aircrew Breathing Device
Familiarization Program focuses on the use of the SRU-40 (referred to as HABD) and trains
Marines on the shallow water egress trainer. This is followed by familiarization with aircraft and
personal survival equipment and survival familiarization training (rafts, survival strokes, treading
water) and concluded in the rotorcraft “dunker” simulator.

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES AND TRAINING

Procedures for conducting air assault operations are included in unit SOPs. While SOPs include
routine actions that personnel might have to complete during an operation, they must also include
procedures for downed aircraft, bump plans, or other conditions that may occur during the
conduct of operations. The unit’s training program ensures that personnel are familiar with and
proficient in the procedures contained in the SOP. Also during training, the information in the
SOP is evaluated for completeness, simplicity, and applicability and procedures are refined
as necessary.

ARTILLERY SUPPORT
Supporting artillery units train with the maneuver unit. They become familiar with the maneuver
unit’s SOP and teach selected maneuver unit personnel how to plan for, employ, call for, and
adjust artillery and mortar fires. This joint training ensures mutual understanding of operational
requirements, capabilities, and limitations. If possible, the same fire support units support a
particular maneuver unit for each operation.

To support air assault operations, artillery personnel must be proficient in sling loading operations
and the planning required to execute PZ/LZ operations. This planning requires artillery leaders to
coordinate closely with both the maneuver unit that controls the lift assets and the aviation units
involved. Helicopter support team and external load/unload techniques require frequent training
for hookup teams, aircraft crews, zone control personnel, and communicators. A detailed discussion
of external loading and unloading procedures is contained in MCRP 3-40F.4, MCRP 3-40F.5,
and MCRP 3-40F.6.

AVIATION UNITS
Aviation unit commanders assist ground unit commanders in the development of training in the
technical aspects of combined aviation and ground unit training. They also ensure that their units

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

are technically proficient. A working relationship between the maneuver and aviation units is
maintained whenever possible.

INFANTRY AND AVIATION

Ground and aviation units must train together and completely understand the MAGTF’s
CONOPS. They must train in all types of weather and visibility. As a result of their joint training,
they refine and develop compatible SOPs.

CONDUCT OF TRAINING
Air assault training begins by familiarizing individuals in aircraft procedures, including loading
and unloading, crash procedures, and aircraft safety. Proficiency in these procedures provides a
foundation for collective training of ground and aviation units. Collective training should include
battle drills, loading and unloading, as well as organizing into combat formations on the LZ. This
training allows units to maximize the speed and mobility of air assault operations.

MOCKUPS
Constraints on aircraft flight hours limit the amount of flight time available for training.
Therefore, much of the individual and small-unit training has to be accomplished using aircraft
mockups. Plywood and other materials can be used to build the mockups, which are relatively
inexpensive. Mockups can be used to train individuals on how to approach an aircraft, how to get
on the aircraft, and how to get off of the aircraft; air assault battle drills can be taught by using
mockups; and combat support Marines can be trained to load weapons, equipment, supplies, and
ammunition on aircraft by practicing on mockups. If the unit has a local training area of adequate
size, several mockups can be used to practice battle drills to include the way the unit should
offload aircraft in the LZ. The mockups can be placed in different patterns to simulate different
landing formations.

INDIVIDUAL AND UNIT TRAINING

The following subjects should be included in the appropriate phases of individual and unit training:

Ground units:
• Subjects required for proficiency in ground skills and tactics.
• SOP battle drills.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• Physical and psychological preparedness.

• Methods and procedures for control and guidance of aircraft.
• Safety procedures in and around aircraft.
• Control and adjustment of supporting fires.
• Subjects required for proficiency in preparing internal and external aircraft loads.
• Practical experience in land and aerial navigation.
• Employment of attack helicopter units.
• Serial leaders’ duties.
• Helicopter rope suspension techniques.
• Downed aircraft procedures.
• LZ/PZ selection.
• LZ/PZ control.
• Combat support and CSS requirements and techniques.
Aviation units:
• Operations planning.
• Terrain/low altitude flying techniques and navigation.
• Formation flying.
• Marginal weather and reduced-visibility flying techniques.
• Camouflage and security of aircraft.
• Employment of aerial weapon systems.
• Aircraft maintenance in a combat field environment.
• Unit control of aircraft and air traffic.
• ITG procedures and techniques.
• Flight operations in confined areas with maximum loads.
• Operations with external loads.
• Aerial reconnaissance and security techniques.
• Battle drills.
Subjects common to both aviation and ground units:
• Threat organizations and doctrine.
• Threat vehicles and antiaircraft weapons and their capabilities.
• Conduct of liaison and coordination.
• Forward refueling techniques.
• Training in defense against CBRN weapons.
• Signal security, discipline, and electronic attack.
• CASEVAC procedures.
• Procedures for aerial resupply.
• Training in air assault SOPs.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

PREPARATION
Training time and resources must be used efficiently. Each element of the unit should be prepared
to do its part before joining support units for combined exercises. Squad and platoons should be
trained in air assault battle drills and preparation of internal and external loads.

STAFF TRAINING
Staffs of ground and aviation units must be trained in planning and conducting air assault
operations with emphasis on the following:

• Capabilities and limitations of air assault operations.

• Command and staff relationships in the MAGTF.
• Development of plans using the reverse planning sequence.
• The MAGTF rapid response planning process.
• Fire support means and control and fire support planning for air assault operations.
• Logistic procedures and requirements for air assault operations.
• Preparation of sequenced ground and air movement plans.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

APPENDIX B
SMALL-UNIT LEADER’S GUIDE TO PICKUP
ZONE AND LANDING ZONE OPERATIONS

This appendix serves as a small-unit (company and below) leader’s guide for the safe, efficient,
and tactically-sound conduct of operations in and around PZs and LZs.

SELECTION AND MARKING

Small-unit leaders should be proficient in selecting and marking PZs/LZs and in providing
terminal guidance to aircraft. Tactical and technical considerations that impact selection of PZs/
LZs are discussed in chapter 4.

There are multiple methods for LZ marking that may be selected by ground combat or combat
logistic personnel to support the ground tactical plan. The examples that follow are not meant to
be an exclusive list, but are options with recommendations for when they are most effective.
Regardless of which marking scheme is chosen, its use should be based on environmental
considerations (i.e., lighting, wind, obstacles) for the task to be performed by the aircrew, such as
a precise hover for external cargo pick-up/delivery, and/or a desired aircraft orientation in the zone
to support onloading or offloading of personnel.

The marking of PZs/LZs is as follows:

• The NATO-Y, when viewed from the air, will appear as an upside down letter “Y.” This is
especially useful at night when the final aircraft landing orientation is required. To the extent it
is possible, the longer stem of the Y should be aligned to the relative winds in the LZ. While
there is specified point during the approach to the spot the aircraft must align itself within the
diagram, the landing shall terminate as depicted in figure B-1, on page B-2.

B-1
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

7m

14 m
14 m

Figure B-1. NATO-Y.

• The crow’s foot external sling load operations, when viewed from the air, appears as a
centerline to indicate aircraft heading with reference lines approximately 45 degrees off of the
centerline. This LZ marking is advantageous at night when an extended and precise hover
is to be maintained. The reference lines at 45 degrees aid the pilots in catching undesired
drift while hovering over the load, which decreases time to hook up and decreases the risk
to ground crews. The orientation of the marking will be aligned with relative winds. In this
instance, it is expected that the aircraft will approach the spot on an extended centerline. See
figure B-2 on page B-3.

Note: The crow’s foot shall not be referred to as an “Inverted NATO-Y.”

B-2
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Wind direction 0

45
° °t
60 o
o 7 60
°t °
45
6

5
15 11
4
14 10
13 9
12 8

1
Notes:
Distance between lights: 15 meters (15 paces), 1 pace equals a full-length stride (approximately 3 feet).

Lights 8-11 and 12-15 should be placed in line along the 45° to 60° bearing from the nose of the aircraft.

Lights 4, 8, and 12 should be placed below the outer edge of the rotor arc, with lights alighted by sector
(4-7, 8-11, and 12-15) on bearing.

Distance between lights 3 and 4: 22 meters (22 paces).

Color of lights determined by light level conditions and enemy situation.

Figure B-2. Crow’s Foot for External Sling Load Operations.

• The landing box provides visual reference to pilots when landing during both day and night
operations. The box allows for multiple landing directions while still providing visual reference.
The recommended dimensions for the landing box are 60 to 75 feet between each chemical light
(referred to as a chemlight) or air panel in a square pattern, which accommodates the fuselage of
each Marine Corps assault support aircraft. See figure B-3 on page B-4.
• If more than one aircraft is landing in the same PZ/LZ, there will be an additional light for each
aircraft. For observation, utility, and attack aircraft, each additional aircraft landing point is
marked with a single light placed at the exact point that each aircraft is to land.
• Obstacles include any obstruction to flight that might interfere with aircraft operation in the
ground (e.g., trees, stumps, rocks) and cannot be reduced.
• Additional considerations for proper selection and marking are driven by the LZ’s topography
and composition, particularly in dusty or snow covered areas that would lead to degraded
visual environments with rotor wash.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

60-75'

The measurements of 60–75 feet allows the fuselage

of each type of assault support aircraft to fit within the
60-75' box and gives reference on landing. This does not
preclude using a smaller or larger box, depending on
the situation.

Figure B-3. Landing Box.

CONTROL OF AIRCRAFT
Approaching aircraft are controlled by hand-and-arm signals to transmit terminal guidance for
landing. The speed of arm movement indicates the desired speed of aircraft compliance with the
signal. The signalman is positioned to the right front of the aircraft where the signalman can best
be seen by the pilot. Signalmen hold lighted batons, flashlights, or chemlights in each hand to give
signals at night. If using flashlights, care must be taken to avoid blinding the pilot. Lights should
remain lit at all times when signaling; however, considerations should be made to prevent washing
out pilot or aircrew NVDs. Bright signal devices are good for far ITG, but due to sensitivity
of night vision goggles (NVGs), dimmed lighting is preferred for near ITG. Light sources,
particularly colored lighting, should be tested to confirm compatibility with NVDs as appropriate.

ASSEMBLY AND OBJECTIVE AREAS

Prior to arrival of the aircraft, the PZ must be secured, the PZ control party positioned, and the
troops and equipment positioned in the unit assembly area.

Occupation of Unit Assembly Area

Unit leaders should accomplish the following:

• Maintain all-round security of assembly area.

• Maintain communications.
• Organize troops and equipment into loads and lifts in accordance with unit air movement plan.
• Conduct safety briefing and equipment check of troops.
• Establish priority of loading for each Marine and identify bump personnel.
• Brief on the location of the straggler control points.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Movement to the Occupation of Holding Area

Linkup guides from the PZ control party meet with designated units in the unit assembly area and
coordinate movement of loads to a release point. As loads arrive at the release point, load guides
move each load to its assigned load assembly area. To reduce the number of personnel required, the
same guide may be used to move the unit from the unit assembly area to the load assembly area.
Noise and light discipline will be maintained throughout the entire movement in order to maintain
the security of the PZ. Additionally, no personnel should be allowed on the PZ unless loading
aircraft, rigging vehicles for sling load, or directed by PZ control. While remaining in load order,
each Marine is assigned a security (firing) position by the serial leader. Each Marine is employed
in the prone position, weapon at the ready, and facing outward (away from the PZ) to provide
immediate close-in security. An example of a large, one-sided PZ is depicted in figure B-4. A
two-sided PZ with unit and load assembly areas is depicted in figure B-5 on page B-6.

Security
Team
Security
Large Open Area Team

PZ Control
ds

Load Load
oo

AA Load Load AA
W

Load AA
AA AA
Wo
o ds

Unit
Release AA
Point

Unit
AA Unit
AA
LEGEND
AA assembly area

Figure B-4. Example of a Large, Open, One-Sided Pickup Zone.

B-5
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Release Unit
Point AA

Load Woods
AA Load
AA

Security
Team

Trail

Security
Load Team
AA
Woods Load
Load PZ Control
AA AA

Unit
AA

Release
Point
Unit
AA

LEGEND
AA assembly area

Figure B-5. Example of a Small, Two-Sided Pickup Zone.

While in the load assembly area, units should—

• Maintain tactical integrity by keeping fire teams and squads intact.

• Maintain self-sufficiency by loading a weapon and its ammunition on the same aircraft.
• Ensure key Marines, weapons, and equipment are cross-loaded among aircraft to prevent the
loss of control or the loss of all of a particular asset if an aircraft is lost.
• Ensure all troop gear is tied down and checked and that short antennas are placed in radio,
folded down, and secured prior to loading.
• Ensure that squad and team leaders check the equipment of their Marines to ensure it is
complete and operational.
• Ensure specific aircraft seats are assigned to each Marine.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

PZ CLOSURE
During platoon air assault operations, the platoon sergeant is responsible for ensuring all
personnel and equipment are loaded (the PZ is clear) and security is maintained.

Single Lift
The platoon sergeant is located on the last aircraft and collects bumped Marines, if required.
The platoon sergeant will be the last person to load the aircraft. Once on the aircraft, the platoon
sergeant uses the troop commander’s radio handset to notify the crew chief/mission commander
that all personnel and equipment are loaded. Close-in security is provided by the aircraft
door gunners.

Multiple Lifts
The duties of the platoon sergeant during a multiple lift are the same as for the single lift. During a
multiple lift, security teams maintain security of the PZ and are the last element to depart with the
platoon sergeant. Depending on the initial locations of the security teams, repositioning closer to
the PZ may be necessary. Whenever possible, the aircraft lands as close to the security teams’
positions as possible to enhance security and minimize the movement required by the teams.

Aircraft Loading Sequence

The following aircraft loading sequence is used:

• The serial leader initiates movement once the aircraft has landed.
• The serial moves to the aircraft in file with the serial leader leading the file.
• The serial leader should—
—Ensure that all personnel know which aircraft and which position to load.
—Ensure that all personnel wear or carry packs on the aircraft.
—Notify the crew chief when all serial members are on board and ready for lift-off.
• All personnel buckle up as soon as they are seated in their assigned seats. The serial leader
always sits in the left front seat unless a platoon commander or company commander is on the
same aircraft.
• The serial leader reports to the pilot and answers any questions the pilot may have, using the
aircraft intercommunication (troop commander’s) headset.

LANDING ZONE OPERATIONS

Just as there is a priority of work for defensive operations, there is a priority of actions upon
landing in an LZ.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Unloading
Unloading the aircraft does not begin until directed by the crew chief or pilot. Once the aircraft
has landed, personnel unbuckle seatbelts and exit aircraft as fast as possible with all equipment.
Prior to leaving the aircraft, the serial leader obtains the landing directions from the pilot if
they were not determined during the approach into the LZ; this aids in orientation to the LZ,
particularly at night. Upon exiting the aircraft, the serial moves to its designated location within
the LZ.

Immediate Action on a Hot Landing Zone

If the decision is made to use a hot LZ or contact is made upon landing, troops quickly dismount
and move 15 to 20 meters away from the aircraft and immediately return the enemy’s fire to
enable the aircraft to depart the LZ.

If the contact is similar to a far ambush, troops will fire and maneuver off the LZ to the closest
side offering cover and concealment. If troops are engaged from nearby enemy positions, they
treat it as a near ambush by immediately returning fire. Marines who consider themselves in the
kill zone may assault the enemy positions or attempt to get out of the kill zone. Marines not in the
kill zone provide supporting fire to support the movement of Marines in the kill zone. The squad
or platoon leader calls for fire support if it is available.

Once disengaged from the enemy force, the squad or platoon leader moves the unit to a covered
and concealed position, accounts for personnel and equipment, and assesses the situation to
determine whether or not the unit can continue the mission.

Note: Expect assault aircraft gunners to return enemy fire when aircraft
arrive and depart the LZ and while the aircraft is in the LZ.

Load Assembly Area in a Cold Landing Zone

Once the load is unloaded from the aircraft, the serial leader moves the load to its predetermined
location using traveling overwatch movement techniques. All troops move at a fast pace to the
nearest concealed position. Once at the concealed assembly point, the serial leader makes a quick
count of personnel and equipment and then proceeds with the mission.

DUTIES OF KEY PERSONNEL

To ensure that an air assault operation is executed in an effective manner, key personnel are
designated to perform specific duties.

The unit leader platoon commander—

• Maintains overall responsibility for the air assault operation and may act as the PZ
control officer.
• Plans the operation.
• Briefs subordinate leaders.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• Issues OPORD.
• Conducts rehearsals.
• Rides in the AMC’s aircraft to ensure better command, control, and communications.

The platoon sergeant—

• Sets up the PZ.

• Supervises marking of the PZ.
• Briefs all serial leaders.
• Supervises all activity in the PZ.
• Maintains PZ security.
• Supervises movement of troops and equipment.
• Supervises placement of loads and sling loads.
• Devises and disseminates the bump plan.
• Rides in the last aircraft for control purposes and ensures that the PZ is cleared.

The serial leader—

• Briefs personnel on their respective tasks and positions inside the aircraft.
• Assigns respective areas of security to personnel. Ensures that each Marine arrives at the
proper place.
• Supervises the loading of the serial into the aircraft to ensure that all personnel assume assigned
positions and have buckled their seatbelts.
• Keeps current on location by use of a map and communications with the aircraft crew during
movement.
• Ensures, upon landing, that all personnel exit the aircraft quickly and move to designated
positions within the LZ.

PICKUP ZONE CONTROL PARTY

The PZ control party is responsible for the organization of, control within, and coordination of all
operations within the PZ. The PZ control party for a platoon air assault operation may organize
as follows:

• PZ control officer is a rifle platoon commander.

• PZ control noncommissioned officer in charge is a platoon sergeant or guide.
• The radio operator has three radios: one radio monitors the aviation net for communication
with the aircraft, another is used to communicate with the platoon’s subordinate units, and a
third operates on the company command net.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• There is one load linkup guide per air assault team or load, whose primary duties are to assist in
link up and movement of the load assembly area. For platoon-sized air assault operations, these
guides should be selected from their assigned serial.
• The lead aircraft signalman is responsible for visual landing guidance for the lead aircraft. The
signalman can be selected from either the serial or the squad that is loading on the lead aircraft.
• The HST is responsible for load preparation and rigging. The HST consists of a team
supervisor/safety observer, an inside director, an outside director, a static discharge Marine,
and two hookup Marines to hook up the load. During complex external lifts, Marines from
the landing support battalion may be provided to supervise platoon HST operations.

AIR ASSAULT OPERATIONS COMMUNICATIONS

During establishment and operation of a platoon-sized PZ, communications must be maintained
with aviation elements in order to control the aircraft. Communications are also required to report
to the company headquarters and to control security teams. During air movement, radio listening
silence is maintained on the company and platoon radio nets unless otherwise directed. While on
board the aircraft, all leaders communicate with their Marines using predetermined hand-and-arm
signals or stating the information on a piece of paper or event map. Communication with the
aircraft crew is accomplished by using the internal communications system provided by the crew.

Landing Zone Communications

Immediately after unloading the aircraft, radio operators check their radios to ensure they are
configured as necessary. Radio communications on the LZ will be on the command frequency.
Hand-and-arm signals and messengers are used to improve noise discipline.

Fire Support Communications

The rifle platoon makes requests for fire support through the rifle company headquarters.

SLING LOAD HOOKUP OPERATIONS

In small sling load hookup operations, company and below, six Marines are normally used as the
ground crew in the PZ and LZ: a team supervisor/safety observer, an inside director, an outside
director, a static discharge Marine, and two hookup Marines when needed by the platoon.

Static Discharge Equipment

The static electricity generated by rotary-wing aircraft during flight can be fatal to Marines
conducting external loading and unloading operations. The static discharge grounding wand
(National Stock Number 1670-01-194-0926) protects the user from static electrical shock during
aircraft external loading operations. It is important that all Marines conducting external load
functions be trained in proper procedures and be familiar with safety requirements. Marines
should be trained in HST operations and external load procedures by the Marine logistics group’s

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

landing support battalion. The equipment required to conduct HST operations, including external
loading, is drawn from the landing support company prior to attempting external loading and
unloading. More information on HST operations is found in MCRP 3-40F.4, MCRP 3-40F.5,
and MCRP3-40F.6.

Protective Equipment
All ground crew personnel will wear the following protective equipment:

• Helmet.
• Protective mask or dust goggles.
• Earplugs.
• Gloves.
• Utility shirt with sleeves rolled down.

Ground Crew Emergency Procedures

The hookup team will work on the right side of the load in order to move out to the right of the
aircraft in case of emergencies. If an emergency occurs during a sling loading operation, the
ground crew moves to the aircraft’s right and the aircraft moves to its left. The signalman moves
out of the aircraft’s flight path by moving to the aircraft’s right.

Safety Briefing
Prior to an air assault operation, leaders within the unit chain of command give a safety briefing
to all personnel. All leaders will enforce strict safety measures when working with aircraft. At a
minimum, the safety briefing addresses the following issues:

• Identification tags and earplugs will be worn at all times when near or in an aircraft.
• Helmets, with chinstraps fastened, will be worn at all times. The supporting squadron can
provide protective cranials upon request, if coordinated.
• Helicopter safety measures for avoidance of tail rotors and proper loading and unloading
procedures.
• Rifles will be carried with the muzzle pointed downward in weapons condition four. Belt-fed
weapons will not have rounds on the feed tray. Deviations to this instruction are situationally
dependent, but generally on insert the aircraft crew chief will give direction to arm weapons
just prior to landing if enemy contact is expected.
• Hand grenades will be secured.
• Short antennas will be bent completely down and long antennas will be tied down when using
radios in proximity of rotary-wing aircraft.
• Seatbelts will be fastened upon entering the aircraft and left buckled until the crew chief signals
to exit the aircraft.
• In the event of a forced landing, all personnel will lean forward with their heads down until the
aircraft comes to rest. No one will exit the aircraft until the rotors have completely stopped.

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APPENDIX C
EXAMPLE OF AN ANNEX TO BATTALION
SOPS FOR AIR ASSAULT OPERATIONS

1. General

a. Purpose. This annex prescribes the organization and procedures to be followed in the
preparation and execution of air assault operations. Only procedures peculiar to air assault
operations are included; otherwise, basic SOPs apply.

b. Application. Applies to all organic and supporting units under control of _____Battalion,
_____Marine Regiment///Marine expeditionary unit, Marine expeditionary brigade, Marine
expeditionary force.

2. Personnel

a. Strength, Records, and Reports

(1) Companies are organized into assault and rear echelons. Upon receipt of a warning
order, companies submit personnel strength to the S-1 and equipment availability status
to the S-4. The S-1 and S-4 forward this information to the S-3 in order to determine
flight requirements.

(2) Upon entering the LZ, companies report personnel and equipment status to the battalion
command post on the tactical net using the standard format.

b. Discipline and Order

(1) The S-1 establishes a straggler control point on each PZ in coordination with the S-3 and
PZ control officer. All units will have a representative located at the straggler control point
on their PZs. Bumped personnel are reported to the S-1 and/or PZ control officer by straggler
control personnel for consolidation and rescheduling into appropriate LZs.

(2) Straggler control becomes the company’s responsibility upon landing.

(3) Personnel landed in other than their assigned LZ are to report to the on-site unit commander
(representative) immediately. Personnel are attached to that unit until ordered to return to their
parent unit by this headquarters. The gaining unit reports attached personnel to the S-1 by their
number and parent unit. Do not include attached personnel in unit strength reports.

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c. Prisoner of War Evacuation. The POWs are immediately reported to the S-3, who issues
evacuation instructions. Units detaining POWs indicate available PZ locations for pickup by air
in their initial reports. The S-2 determines whether to evacuate through battalion or direct to
higher headquarters.

d. Casualty Evacuation. Report all casualties for CASEVAC by priority code.

(1) Casualty evacuation requests follow standard format for casualties and are classified as
routine, priority, or urgent. Radio frequencies of supporting CASEVAC units are included in
each OPORD.

(2) The S-1 is responsible for providing communications-electronics operating instructions

(referred to as CEOI), LZs, and flight route overlay to supporting CASEVAC units.

3. Intelligence

a. Weather

(1) Battalion S-2 obtains and disseminates the following:

• Long-range forecast immediately after receipt of mission.

• Short-range forecasts up to hostilities-2 (referred to as H-2).

(2) Command weather reconnaissance 1 hour prior to lift-off is coordinated among the
mission commander, S-2, and AMC.

(3) Operations are executed only on order of this headquarters when weather is below half-
mile visibility and 100-foot ceiling.

b. Terrain

(1) Maximize use of command aerial reconnaissance down to company commanders,

consistent with aviation resources, available time, and tactical situation.

(2) Use sand table briefing techniques when possible in conjunction with maps and aerial
photographs.

(3) Issue maps immediately after receipt of a warning order, if available. If not available, they
are issued on receipt from higher headquarters.

(4) Aerial photographs are made available upon receipt. The S-2 processes all requests
(conserving assets, as appropriate). Priority is given to answering priority intelligence
requirements and support of the assault echelon.

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c. Escape and Evasion

(1) Personnel in aircraft forced to land behind enemy lines en route to the objective will—

• Establish immediate security in vicinity of downed aircraft.

• Remain in that location using aircraft radios to contact recovery aircraft.
• Mark and clear suitable landing points for recovery and withdrawal aircrafts.

(2) The senior ground force individual assumes responsibility for organization and conduct
of security until recovery is executed.

(3) If the above is not possible due to enemy pressure, evade capture and attempt to join
friendly units by infiltration. Personnel attempt to escape and evade back along the flight
route because maximum rescue efforts are directed along flight routes, with particular
emphasis at checkpoints. Continuous attempts will be made to locate LZs/landing points
suitable for rotary-wing withdrawal. The wounded are evacuated with infiltrating personnel.
The dead are concealed and stripped of weapons, ammunition, and items of intelligence
value. The locations of the dead left behind are recorded.

(4) If enemy pressure becomes a threat to downed aircraft personnel, the senior ground force
individual takes steps to secure or destroy classified or sensitive items. Aircraft destruction is
only on order of this headquarters if capture is not imminent. If contact with this headquarters
cannot be made, the senior individual on the ground attempts to prevent capture by enemy.

4. Operations

a. Planning Phase

(1) Except when accomplished by higher headquarters, this headquarters prepares plans in
coordination with the supporting AMC.

(2) Plans continue to be refined until executed. All operational information is given to
subordinate commanders as soon as determined, particularly—

• The size and composition of the force required to execute the mission.
• Allocation of assault and logistical aircraft, based on allowable cargo load provided
by the mission commander.
• Designated PZs and aircraft PZ formations. Designated flight routes, LZs, and LZ
aircraft formation.

(3) Coordination between the supported and supporting commanders must include, at
a minimum—

• Enemy and friendly situation.

• Mission.

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• Fire support plan.

• Abort and alternate plans.
• Weather (including minimums and delays).
• Type, number, and aircraft load of assault support aircraft.
• Aircraft formations in PZ and LZ.
• Air movement information relative to timing for operations.
• Communication (primary and alternate frequencies and plans).
• Location and call sign of second in command.
• Required command reconnaissance by the mission commander and supporting
aviation commanders. Time synchronization requirements.
• TRAP procedures.

(4) Operations Security. Operations security is emphasized in each phase of an air assault
operation. The objective is to conceal the capabilities and intentions of the air assault force.
Four, general operations security measures are considered for every operation: deception,
signal security, physical security, and information security. The S-2 provides intelligence
collection of threat data. The S-3 ensures that the staff and subordinate commanders are
aware of operations security measures to be employed to counter the threat. Emphasis is
placed on maintaining the elements of surprise and security. Additionally, all supporting
elements must be aware of the necessity of maintaining a high degree of operational security.
At a minimum, the commander, supporting commanders, and subordinate commanders
employ the following techniques:

• Deception:
—Camouflage vehicles, equipment, and personnel.
—Overflights of other LZs (if aircraft are available and enemy situation does not
preclude).
—Insertion at night or during other periods of reduced visibility.
—Noise and light discipline.
—Dummy laager points for aircraft.
—Reconnaissance overflights of several objectives.
• Signal security:
—Communications security techniques.
—Radio listening silence.
—Hand-and-arm signals (on the ground) usage.
—Low-power and secure mode on radios usage.
• Physical security:
—Use of security forces at LZ and PZ.
—Use of wires, mines, barriers, and security troops at aircraft laager points and troop
assembly areas.
—Use of reconnaissance unit to secure LZ, if possible.

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• Information security:
—Counterintelligence.
—Strict control of all operational information.
—Release information only to those with a need to know.
—Last minute release of attack time (objective) and force composition.

b. Landing Phase

(1) The aircraft commander notifies each serial leader of any changes to the order, any
change in LZs and/or direction of landing, and when the aircraft is over the release point. The
serial leader then informs personnel of any changes and alerts them to prepare to unload.

(2) Passengers may not move in the aircraft until clearance has been obtained from the serial
leader via the aircraft crew chief. After the serial leader gives the clearance signal, troops and
equipment are unloaded as rapidly as possible.

(3) After all troops and cargo have been unloaded from the aircraft, the crew chief checks the
aircraft and signals the serial leader that the cabin is empty. Departure from the aircraft is
executed rapidly in the direction prescribed by the battle drill.

(4) The serial leader ensures that members of the serial clear the LZ in a safe, expeditious
manner. This prevents exposing personnel to unnecessary danger and prevents any delay in
lift-off and landing of subsequent aircraft.

(5) Individual weapons are fired only upon order during offloading unless enemy contact is
made or if planned as part of the overall fire plan.

(6) If there is no enemy contact on the LZ, actions are as follows:

• Move each aircraft load to the nearest covered and concealed position in direction of
the assembly area.
• Establish LZ security for succeeding lifts (if applicable).
• Assemble, organize, and account for all personnel.
• Report.

(7) If enemy contact is made on the LZ, actions are as follows:

• Return fire immediately, upon offloading, with all available firepower to gain fire
superiority.
• Fight by serials, using fire and movement, until platoon or company can be formed
(according to battle drill).
• Request and coordinate fire support.
• Secure the LZ for succeeding lifts.
• Report.

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(8) Keep the commander informed during all actions.

c. Air Movement Phase

(1) Radio silence is maintained to the maximum extent possible. Inability to comply with
specific control times are reported as prescribed in OPORD.

(2) Troop leader remains oriented by continuous map-terrain comparisons.

d. Loading Plan

(1) The PZ is designated by this headquarters.

(2) The air officer arrives prior to the aircraft flight and reports to the PZ control officer for
last minute briefing and coordination. The air officer notifies the AMC of any changes.

(3) Serials are organized to support the ground tactical plan.

(4) Assault support aircraft land in the PZs in the specified formation. Unit leaders brief
troops on the aircraft formation prior to arrival of aircraft at the PZ.

(5) Aircraft should land as close to their estimated time of arrival as possible to reduce time-
on-ground before loading.

(6) During a battalion move, the battalion XO, or designated representative, acts as the PZ
control officer and the headquarters commandant acts as the LZ control officer. The company
XO acts as the PZ control officer during company-sized operations and as the unit PZ control
officer during battalion-sized operations. The PZ control officer is responsible for developing
and disseminating the PZ control plan. The PZ control officer maintains contact with the
AMC on a designated radio frequency. Each unit to be moved will have radio contact with
the PZ control officer 15 minutes prior to aircraft arrival. Units must be prepared to alter
loads based on change of aircraft availability or change in allowable cargo load. Within each
company, platoon, and squad, a priority of loading must be established. Priority of aircraft
loads and personnel to be bumped on each aircraft will be designated. Bumped personnel
report to the straggler control point immediately.

(7) The supporting aviation unit assists in planning for the execution of loading by providing
technical advice and supervision.

(8) The serial leader supervises aircraft loading.

(9) Cargo or equipment to be transported externally is secured in cargo nets or on pallets for
sling loading under aircrafts. Hookup of these slings is accomplished by the HST in the PZ.

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(10) Preparations for individuals are as follows:

• Fasten helmet chinstraps.

• Collapse bipods on applicable weapons systems.
• Tie down loose equipment.
• Carry rifles with the muzzle pointed downward in weapons condition four. Belt-fed
weapons will not have rounds on the feed tray. Deviations to this instruction are
situationally dependent; but, generally on insert, the aircraft crew chief will give
direction to arm weapons just prior to landing if enemy contact is expected.
• Unfix bayonets (if fixed).
• Ensure radio operators use short whip antennas only and depress antennas to avoid
breakage and to reduce the safety hazard.

(11) An accurate list for each aircraft load by name, grade, and unit is furnished to the
battalion S-1 through the unit officer in charge of loading.

(12) The following sequence should be followed during the loading phase:

• Secure PZ.
• Approach aircraft only after it has landed.
• Load when directed by PZ control personnel.
• Load at double time.
• Move to the aircraft and load as directed by the serial leader.

(13) When loading personnel and cargo into an aircraft, the serial leader ensures that the
following is accomplished:

• All safety measures prescribed for movement in and about the aircraft are observed.
• All personnel approach the aircraft in the prescribed manner.
• All personnel are aware of and avoid the tail rotor and engine exhaust outlets.
• All personnel and equipment stay below the arc of the top rotor and load on the
opposite side of the tail rotor. Personnel should be especially watchful when loading
on the slope of a hill; therefore, approach and depart an aircraft on the downslope
side. The aircrew indicates which side to enter/exit the aircraft.

(14) A briefing on emergencies is conducted by an aviation representative prior to loading, as

appropriate.

(15) Upon loading, the serial leaders provide the gross weight of the load (personnel plus all
equipment) to the pilot in command or the crew chief.

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(16) After all equipment and personnel have been loaded, the serial leader, in coordination
with the aircraft crew chief, determines that—

• Equipment and cargo are in the proper places.

• Cargo or equipment is properly secured.
• Each Marine is seated with safety belt fastened.
• Weapons are placed between legs; muzzle down (except on the UH-1Y which is
boarded muzzle up).

(17) When the serial leader has checked to ensure that all cargo and personnel are accounted
for, the serial leader then notifies the aircraft commander or crew chief. The crew chief
ensures that all personnel and equipment are properly secured for flight.

(18) During flight, the pilot commands the aircraft. The serial leader ensures the following
is accomplished:

• Cargo lashing (if applicable) is monitored to determine that cargo is properly secured
during flight. Aircrew have responsibility for ensuring cargo is secured in accordance
with aircraft operations manuals. Crewmembers are responsible for securing cargo.
• Troops keep restraints secure and do not move within the cabin without prior
authorization.
• Troops keep restraint devices secure and do not smoke during flight.
• Troops stay seated and do not move within aircraft cabin without authorization.

(19) In the event that more than one lift is required, the PZ control officer remains until the
last lift to ensure control and continuous communication.

(20) General aircraft load planning requires that—

• All units develop general load plans to facilitate movement on short notice.
• The necessary equipment for aircraft loading and movement (nets, slings, and
clevises) is kept on hand.
• Battalion personnel are organized and trained in loading equipment (including sling
loads).
• Vehicles and major equipment are prepared at all times to facilitate airlift operations.
• Vehicles and major equipment to be transported into the objective area are reported
with strength figures.

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e. Subsequent Operations

(1) Withdrawal by Air. Withdrawal from an area of operations requires thorough planning,
close coordination, and controlled execution. The following are considered important for any
withdrawal by air:

• Primary and alternate PZs and flight routes must be planned.

• Defensive concentrations must be planned around the PZ. The security force protects
the loading force and returns fire if engaged. When the last elements are ready to
load, the security force calls in required fires to cover withdrawal and uses their own
fire to cover their loading.
• All-round security until the first aircraft is on the ground (never assemble too early)
must be maintained.
• Loads must be planned so that a force is capable of defending itself until the last lift.
The platoon leader/sergeant or squad leader with a radio is the last person out of a PZ
and reports to the commander that the PZ is clear of all personnel and equipment and
immediately notifies the pilot of the aircraft the platoon leader/sergeant boards. If
possible, plan for at least two extra assault support aircraft to go into the PZ to lift out
the last unit.
• The attack helicopter unit will be in direct communication with the AFC.

(2) Displacement of Command Post. The quartering party is composed of S-1 or

headquarters commandant, communications officer or representative, communications
personnel, security element, and other necessary personnel, and they select the location of the
command post. The C2 aircraft is used as the main command post during movement.
Quartering party duties upon landing include—

• Laying out the new command post.

• Notifying the old command post when the new command post is ready for operation.
• Ensuring timely and orderly arrival and positioning of other command post elements.
• Opening the new command post. The officer in charge notifies the commander or S-3
when the old command post has closed and when the staff is operational in the new
location.
• Providing controlling responsibilities. A C2 aircraft is used as the tactical command
post to control and direct subordinate elements during air movement. The old
command post is responsible for the dissemination of information and reports to
higher and adjacent headquarters until that function is formally passed to the new
command post.

(3) Passive Security of Aircraft in Unit Areas. The security of supporting aviation is the
responsibility of the unit commander in whose area the supporting aviation are laagered or
as designated by the headquarters.

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(a) Laagers (occupancy, 1 to 36 hours) have the following characteristics:

• Select proper terrain for laagers where access by enemy ground forces is difficult
(e.g., laagers surrounded by water or swamps).
• Position aircraft to blend with terrain and vegetation (e.g., locate parking areas in
shadows, near trees).
• Park aircraft in laagers so that attack helicopters can provide security along avenues
of approach. Lift of aircraft, if attacked by enemy, is the responsibility of the ACE
commander.
• Utilize troops in or near the laagers to provide perimeter security. Aviation units
augment security.

(b) Semipermanent facilities (occupancy, 1 to 7 weeks) have the following characteristics:

• Use camouflage nets and natural materials to provide concealment.

• Provide perimeter troop security around airfields and helipads.
• Construct individual and aircraft bunkers and continue progressive improvement as
time permits.

5. Logistics

a. Supply

(1) Prescribed, accompanying supplies are established by the headquarters for each air
assault operation. The following list is a recommended allowance:

• Class I. Each Marine carries three combat ration meals to be eaten on order.
• Classes II and IV. Units take one DOS of required combat essential expendables.
• Class III. Vehicle fuel tanks are filled three-fourths full and gas cans are filled to the
weld. Units take one DOS of oil and lubricants on vehicles.
• Class V. Units maintain basic load at all times. Available supply rates and priority of
delivery as specified in OPORD.
• Class IX. Units take combat essential prescribed load list.
• Water. Marines carry full Camelbaks™ (64 ounces), one bottle of water purification
tablets, and embark 1 DOS of water (3 gallons) per Marine.

(2) All classes of supply are delivered using unit distribution.

(3) Routine, planned supplies are prepackaged to the maximum extent possible by the S-4.

(4) Emergency resupply containing ammunition, water, rations, and medical supplies are
prepackaged by the S-4 and are ready for delivery as required.

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b. Salvage

(1) Commanders guard against damage, destruction, or loss and expedite recovery of aerial
delivery containers, cargo nets, and pallets.

(2) Units in objective area establish salvage collecting points when appropriate and practical.

(3) Salvage is reported to this headquarters for disposition instructions.

c. Captured Material. Captured material may be used on approval of this headquarters.

Evacuation of captured material is accomplished, as the situation allows, though S-4 channels.

d. Medical Support

(1) Casualty evacuation of patients, until linkup or withdrawal, will be by air.

(2) Aid station location is normally in the battalion’s rear.

(3) Requests for CASEVAC within the air assault operations area is made to the medical
organization on the CASEVAC frequency or the administrative logistic net.

(4) Prisoner of war casualties needing medical treatment are evacuated through medical
channels.

(5) Hospital locations are announced for each operation.

e. Transportation and Troop Movement

(1) Vehicular.

(a) Allocation of accompanying organic transport is made by this headquarters.

(b) Captured vehicles are used to the maximum to meet transportation requirements.

(2) Aircraft allocation of supporting aircraft is made by this headquarters.

6. Visual and Sound Signals

a. Visual and sound signals are used as required and prescribed by communications-electronics
operating instructions and unit SOP and as modified by battalion OPORD.

b. Subordinate units employ only those pyrotechnics specifically authorized by OPORD or

communications-electronics operating instructions.

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7. Electronic Warfare

a. Radio stations will not attempt to enter, jam, or otherwise interfere with unknown radio nets
without prior approval of this headquarters.

b. Jamming or attempts to enter nets by unknown stations should be reported to the

communications officer (by a secure means) without delay. Give the time, radio frequency, type
of jamming, signal strength, readability, and identity (if obtainable) of interfering station.

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APPENDIX D
BILLET RESPONSIBILITIES
DURING AIR ASSAULT PLANNING

MISSION COMMANDER AND/OR ASSAULT FORCE COMMANDER

The mission commander and/or AFC takes the following actions:

• Receives warning order (see app. G).

• Conducts mission analysis.
• Receives initial information from the AMC.
• Gives warning order to staff and subordinates.
• Receives personnel status report from S-1.
• Receives equipment status report from S-4.
• Receives enemy situation briefing from S-2.
• Receives friendly forces information briefing from S-3.
• Continues analysis of METT-T.
• Receives higher headquarters’ OPORD.
• Begins development of commander’s estimate.
• Provides guidance to staff as needed.
• Receives staff estimates.
• Obtains data from staff as needed.
• Announces concept.
• Supervises development of OPORD.
• Receives air movement information.
• Coordinates air movement matters with AMC.
• Receives air loading plan from S-3.
• Receives copy of OPORD from S-3.
• Approves or modifies and approves OPORD.
• Issues or oversees issuance of OPORD.
• Conducts/oversees presentation of OPORD brief.

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AIR MISSION COMMANDER

The AMC takes the following actions:

• Receives warning order.

• Conducts mission analysis.
• Receives aircrew status report from ACE S-3.
• Receives aircraft availability report from ACE aircraft maintenance officer.
• Receives enemy situational brief from ACE S-2.
• Gives initial planning information to GCE and staff.
• Receives GCE warning order.
• Receives friendly force information briefing from S-3.
• Provides technical advice to GCE XO and S-2 for PZ/LZ identification.
• Coordinates with supported unit staff.
• Provides information to aviation unit on ground operation.
• Provides advice to GCE S-3 on PZ selection.
• Assists XO in PZ control plan.
• Provides GCE air officer with flight route computations.
• Provides advice to GCE S-3 on LZ and flight route selection.
• Coordinates PZs/LZs, flight routes, and aircraft allocation from GCE air officer and AFC.
• Obtains PZ control plan from GCE XO (PZ control officer).
• Aids GCE S-4 in selecting logistic PZs.
• Coordinates aircraft internal and sling equipment loads with GCE S-4.
• Obtains ASSAT from GCE S-3 and develops the ASLT in accordance with the S-3 and AFC.
• Briefs aviation unit on operation.
• Inspects PZs with GCE XO.
• Receives GCE OPORD.

AIR ASSAULT FORCE EXECUTIVE OFFICER

The following actions are taken by the air assault force XO:

• Receives warning order.

• Receives personnel status report from S-1.
• Receives equipment status report from S-3.
• Receives enemy situation report from S-2.
• Receives AMC initial information.

D-2
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• Receives friendly forces information from S-3.

• Determines available PZs. Obtains advice from AMC.
• Submits PZs to S-3.
• Coordinates staff planning.
• Obtains PZ from S-3.
• Develops PZ control plan.
• Coordinates PZ operations with AMC/terminal controllers.
• Receives GCE commander’s CONOPS.
• Obtains PZs, LZs, flight routes, and aircraft allocation from S-3.
• Coordinates PZ operations with S-1. Completes bump and straggler control plan.
• Inspects PZs with PZ control officers.
• Obtains air movement plan from S-3.
• Obtains air loading plan from S-3.
• Obtains sequence of bump from subordinate units. Annotates air movement plan with sequence
of bump.
• Completes PZ control plan. Submits to S-3.
• Inspects PZs with the mission commander.
• Receives OPORD.

AIR ASSAULT FORCE S-1

The following actions are performed by the air assault force S-1:

• Receives operation notification.

• Assembles personnel data.
• Receives air assault warning order.
• Reports personnel status to mission commander and staff.
• Receives mission commander’s initial information.
• Receives friendly forces information briefing from S-3.
• Begins mission analysis from personnel standpoint.
• Begins preparation of staff estimate (personnel).
• Receives commander’s concept.
• Coordinates PZ operations with battalion XO. Develops straggler control plan.
• Briefs subordinate unit personnel on straggler control plan.
• Receives command post’s general location from S-3.
• Coordinates POW and civilian control plan with S-2.
• Completes POW and civilian control plan. Coordinates with S-4.
• Completes S-1 portion of paragraph 4, OPORD. Gives it to S-4.

D-3
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• Receives air loading plan from S-3.

• Coordinates with headquarters commandant. Develops plan for command post displacement
and security.
• Coordinates command post displacement plan with S-3.
• Coordinates with S-2 for interpreter support, if applicable.
• Coordinates CASEVAC plan with S-4, surgeon, and AFL.
• Plans for recovery and evacuation of the dead. Coordinates with S-3 and S-4.
• Develops personnel replacement plan, if applicable.
• Completes Annex E (Personnel) of the OPORD.
• Receives OPORD.

AIR ASSAULT FORCE S-2

The air assault force S-2 takes the following actions:

• Receives operation notification.

• Receives command direction regarding mission and area of operations.
• Coordinates any needed map requests through the S-4.
• Assembles available intelligence data.
• Requests weather forecast.
• Distributes maps.
• Provides initial intelligence orientation and brief to mission commander, staff, and subordinate
unit commanders on enemy situations.
• Obtains advice concerning LZs from AMC.
• Determines available LZs.
• Submits LZ list to S-3.
• Analyzes weather forecasts.
• Obtains advice concerning flight routes from air officer and AMC.
• Develops threat data information for proposed flight routes and provides data to AMC
and AFC.
• Provides threat estimate along with available flight routes to S-3 (air officer).
• Develops escape and recovery plans. Coordinates with ACE S-2.
• Recommends priority intelligence requirements and information requirements.
• Develops intelligence collection plan with ACE and briefs S-3 on plan.
• Tasks available collection assets and recommends employment of reconnaissance assets to
the S-3.
• Submits requests for intelligence to higher authority.
• Requests aviation reconnaissance and/or imagery of routes, LZs, and objectives.

D-4
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• Begins preparation of staff intelligence estimate.

• Processes intelligence data gathered.
• Prepares intelligence products.
• Develops intelligence debrief plan.
• Completes staff estimate (intelligence).
• Provides S-3 with staff estimate (intelligence).
• Continues intelligence cycle and provides regular briefings to commanders and staffs.
• Recommends targets to FSC and S-3.
• Completes Annex B (Intelligence) of OPORD and submits to S-3.
• Continues intelligence cycle and provides regular briefings to commanders and staffs.
• Coordinates with S-1 for interpreter support, if applicable.
• Coordinates development of POW and civilian control plan with S-1.
• Develops debrief plan.
• Updates intelligence map as needed.

AIR ASSAULT FORCE GROUND COMBAT ELEMENT S-3

The air assault force GCE S-3 takes the following actions:

• Receives warning order.

• Assembles data on friendly elements.
• Receives mission commander initial information through the air officer.
• Receives personnel status from S-1.
• Receives equipment status from S-4.
• Receives enemy situation from S-2.
• Briefs mission commander’s initial information.
• Briefs friendly forces disposition and location.
• Begins development of COA.
• Receives brief by S-2 on collection plan.
• Receives list of available LZs from S-2 and available PZs from XO.
• Receives higher headquarters’ OPORD.
• Begins preparation of staff estimates for operations.
• Selects PZs. Briefs XO and air officer on PZ selection.
• Obtains available flight routes from mission commander through air officer.
• Consolidates staff information.
• Recommends LZs and flight routes.
• Determines need for indirect fire preparations.
• Determines need for EW support.

D-5
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• Provides staff estimates of supportability to mission commander.

• Receives mission commander’s decision.
• Begins preparation of OPORD.
• Provides XO and air officer with PZs and aircraft allocation. Selects general location for
command post. Provides information to staff.
• Receives S-2 input to OPORD. Receives administrative-logistical data of the order from the S-4.
• Completes OPORD paragraphs 1, 2, 3, and 5 and Annex C (Operations). Supervises
completion of pertinent annexes and assembles completed OPORD.
• Receives air movement plan from air officer.
• Receives fire plan from FSC.
• Receives EW support plan from communications officer.
• Obtains air loading plan from air officer.
• Receives paragraph 4 of the OPORD from S-4.
• Completes paragraph 5 of the OPORD.
• Completes operation overlay.
• Coordinates command post displacement with headquarters commandant.
• Obtains PZ control plan from XO.
• Complete OPORD with annexes. Submits to higher commander for approval.
• Issues OPORD.

AIR ASSAULT FORCE GROUND COMBAT ELEMENT AIR OFFICER

The air assault force GCE air officer takes the following actions:

• Receives operation notification.

• Receives air assault warning order.
• Receives personnel status from S-1.
• Receives equipment status from S-4.
• Receives enemy situation briefing from S-2.
• Receives mission commander’s initial information.
• Analyzes mission commander’s initial information for available assets.
• Establishes liaison with ACE/AMC.
• Assists S-3 in preparation of air movement plan.
• Recommends air requests to S-3 and processes air requests from S-3.
• Obtains PZs from S-3 and provides PZs to FSC and staff as needed.
• Establishes necessary liaison with TACP and coordinates preplanned fire support.
• Provides available flight route information to the S-3.
• Receives AMC’s concept.

D-6
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• Obtains LZs, flight routes, and aircraft allocation from ACE S-3. Provides data to the mission
commander, FSC, subordinate unit commanders, and staff as needed.
• Obtain any additional tactical air requirements from FSC.
• Initiates requests for air support of all types (e.g., assault support request, joint TARs).
• Obtains logistical PZs from S-4.
• Coordinates air movement plan with AFC and AMC and submits to S-3 for approval.
• Distributes air movement plan.
• Obtains subordinate air loading plan.
• Consolidates air loading plans and provides to AFC, S-3, XO, and S-1.
• Receives OPORD.

AIR ASSAULT FORCE GROUND COMBAT ELEMENT S-4

The air assault force GCE S-4 takes the following actions:

• Receives operation notification.

• Obtains maps requests by S-2.
• Assembles equipment data.
• Receives air assault warning order.
• Receives personnel status from S-1.
• Provides equipment status to the AFC.
• Receives enemy situation briefing from S-2.
• Receives mission commander’s initial information.
• Receives friendly forces information from S-3.
• Conducts mission analysis to determine logistic/sustainment requirements.
• Receives initial supply requirements from subordinate units.
• Begins preparation of staff estimate (logistics).
• Determines effects of ammunition supply rate on operations. Submits ammunition supply rates
to FSC.
• Compiles material usage data for operation. Obtains PZs from S-3 (air officer).
• Compares usage data to materiel available.
• Requests materiel as needed.
• Coordinates with ACE S-4 on location of the FARP.
• Provides S-3 with staff appraisal (logistics).
• Begins development of support plan for operation. Obtains LZs and flight routes from S-3.
• Selects logistic PZs and provides to S-3 (air officer).
• Plans aircraft loads (internal and external) for mission support. Coordinates pickup points with
mission commander and/or S-3 air officer.

D-7
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• Completes paragraph 4 and Annex D (Logistics/Combat Service Support) of the OPORD.

• Coordinates plans for evacuation of enemy materiel with S-2.
• Coordinates CASEVAC plan with S-1, medical, and AMC.
• Receives OPORD.

AIR ASSAULT FORCE GROUND COMBAT ELEMENT FIRE SUPPORT COORDINATOR

The air assault force GCE FSC takes the following actions:

• Receives operational notification.

• Begins mission analysis to determine available and needed means of fire support.
• Plots locations and capabilities for indirect fire support systems supporting the force.
• Estimates fire support needed.
• Obtains ammunition supply rate from S-4/S-3 of artillery unit, determines effects of
ammunition supply rate on operation, and gathers information for development of fire
support plan.
• Obtains PZs from S-3.
• Continues to gather information for development of fire support plan.
• Coordinates fire support requirements with S-3.
• Provides S-3 with available fire support recommendation for indirect fire preparations.
• Obtains LZs and flight routes from S-3.
• Obtains recommended targets from S-2. Develops air requests to support ground tactical plan.
• Completes fire support plan, Appendix 19 of Annex C of the OPORD.
• Submits fire support plan to S-3 for appropriate commander’s approval; on approval,
distributes.
• Receives OPORD.

Note: Subordinate units develop their own fire support plans. The FSC
coordinates and consolidates subordinate unit plans into the air assault plan.

SUBORDINATE UNIT COMMANDER

The subordinate unit commander takes the following actions:

• Receives operational notification.

• Gathers personnel and equipment data.
• Reports personnel and equipment to battalion staff. Receives maps.
• Receives battalion warning order.

D-8
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• Issues company warning order.

• Determines initial supply requirements.
• Submits initial supply requirements to S-4.
• Begins preparation of air loading plans.
• Continues mission preparation.
• Obtains appropriate PZs, LZs, flight routes, and aircraft allocation from S-3.
• Continues mission planning.
• Obtains air movement plan from S-3.
• Completes air loading plan.
• Submits air loading plan to S-3.
• Receives OPORD.
• Analyzes mission.
• Develops fire support plan.
• Develops ground tactical plan.
• Prepares OPORD.

GROUND TACTICAL PLAN

All planning evolves from the ground tactical plan. The plan specifies actions in the objective area
that ultimately accomplish the mission. See the following scenario.

The battalion commander is faced with three primary objectives—

• Primary objective number 1: LZ Snowbird.
• Primary objective number 2: Objective Z, the Ande Municipal Airport.
• Primary objective number 3: Link up with the mechanized force.
The battalion commander is determined to keep the operation as simple as possible. Therefore, one mission was assigned
to each rifle company.
• Company I (reinforced) would secure primary objective number 1, LZ Snowbird. Company I would provide security
at the LZ and guidance to all incoming assets. The company commander would exercise control over the LZ, provide
guides for the incoming units, and maintain security to preclude paramilitary forces from disrupting the landing plan.
Once Company L has arrived, Company I would become the battalion reserve.
• Company K (reinforced) would follow Company I into LZ Snowbird and immediately deploy to seize Objective Z, the
Ande Municipal Airport. Company K would continue operations until it has secured complete control of the air facility.
This control would be established to allow 6th Marine Expeditionary Force and the government of Grande to operate
from the airstrip and use the buildings.
• Company L (reinforced) would initially act as the reserve unit. Company L would help the designated PZ control officer,
Commanding Officer, Headquarters and Service Company. Company L would provide security for the PZ and personnel
as needed to assist units moving from the staging/assembly area to the PZ, as well as help load materiel into aircraft as
needed. On order, Company L would load at the PZ, land in LZ Snowbird, and conduct the linkup operation.

A warning order was given to the battalion staff and company commanders at the 0945 meeting.

D-9
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

LANDING PLAN
The landing plan must support the ground tactical plan. See the following scenario.

The mission commander examined the following:

• Assault support assets were available to enable two reinforced companies to be airlifted simultaneously. The battalion
commander decided to lift Company I (reinforced) en mass. They would land in LZ Snowbird at 0600 and secure it.
Fifteen minutes later, Company K (reinforced) would land in a single wave.
• Once Company K had departed the LZ, the rest of the battalion could commence air movement. Initially, the battalion
command post would land with Company K and set up in the vicinity of LZ Snowbird. On signal, the battalion command
post would establish itself in the vicinity of the Ande Municipal Airport.
• At the conclusion of landing operations, Company I would remain in the areas adjacent to LZ Snowbird.

The landing plan sequences elements into the area of operation to ensure that units arrive at
the designated location and at the designated time to execute the ground tactical plan. See the
following scenario.

The following considerations were examined and decisions were made:

• Size and location of LZ.
• Anticipated forces in and around the LZ.
• Unit tactical integrity.
• Ensured all Marines were briefed and oriented.
• Ensured Company I is sufficiently task-organized and equipped to destroy the enemy in the area and secure the LZ.
• Ensured the landing plan offers flexibility in the event that circumstances require it.
• Planned supporting fires in and around the LZ for—
—Air movement.
—The landing.
—Subsequent operations.
• Ensured plans were made for resupply and CASEVAC.

AIR MOVEMENT PLAN

The air movement plan is based on the ground tactical plan and the landing plan. It specifies the
schedule and provides instructions for air movement of Marines, equipment, and supplies. This
plan is detailed in the ASLT. Furthermore, it provides coordinating instructions regarding air
routes, control points, speeds, altitudes, and formations. The planned use of aviation fire support,
security, and linkup operations should be included. See the following scenario on page D-11.

D-10
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

The air movement plan for this operation was developed by the air officer in coordination with the ACE. Tentative flight
routes were selected by the AFL.

The air movement plan is prepared jointly by the GCE and the ACE. The air movement plan
contains aircraft allocations; designates the number and type of aircraft for each wave of the
operation; specifies departure points; identifies routes to and from the PZ and LZ; and identifies
loading, lift-off, and landing times. The air movement plan ensures that all required personnel and
materiel are accounted for in the movement and that each aircraft is properly loaded, correctly
positioned, and directed to the LZ.

LOADING PLAN
The loading plan is based on the air movement plan and detailed in the ASLT and ASSAT. Unit
integrity is essential; however, personnel weapons and equipment may be spread loaded so that C2
assets, combat power, and an appropriate weapons mix arrive in the LZ ready for combat. A bump
plan ensures that essential personnel and equipment are loaded ahead of less critical loads in case
of aircraft breakdowns or delays. See the following scenario.

The loading plan for 3d Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment was contained in the battalion SOP for air assault operations. Load
plans were carefully coordinated with the aviation elements and verified by the embarkation officer and the air officer. The
loading plan would control the movement of troops, supplies, and equipment at the PZ; designate unit loading sites; and
control the arrival, loading, and departure of all aircraft. Third Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment SOP was detailed, well-
planned, and well-rehearsed. The PZ was selected by the battalion commander and the headquarters commandant was
designated PZCO.

STAGING PLAN
Loads stand by at the PZ ready for the arrival of the aircraft. The staging plan restates the PZ
organization, defines routes to the PZ, and provides instruction for link up with the aircraft. See
the following scenario.

The staging plan was based on the loading plan and was covered in the battalion SOP for air assault operations. It
prescribed the arrival times of units at the PZ in the proper order for movement.

D-11
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

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D-12
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

APPENDIX E
LANDING ZONE BRIEF

The LZ brief is given prior to the assault support aircraft landing in the LZ. The LZ brief radio
transmissions are addressed by line number. Unknown or not applicable line numbers are
referred to as negative. For example: line one-986320, line two-negative, line three-negative,
line four-Calm, 3 knots east[0], etc.

1. ZONE LOCATION
(Geographical feature, checkpoint, grid, road/intersection, etc.)

2. MARKED BY
(Air panel, buzzsaw, chemlights, infrared strobes, smoke, talk-on, etc.)

3. OBSTACLES
(Power lines, trees, height)

4. WINDS ARE FROM _______________

(Tell where they are blowing from with the nearest subcardinal direction and estimate speed in knots)

5. FRIENDLIES
(Direction/distance from LZ, orientation)

6. ENEMY
(Direction/distance from LZ, orientation)

7. REMARKS
(Dimensions and slope of LZ, where to land with reference to mark)

E-1
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

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E-2
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

APPENDIX F
ASSAULT SUPPORT
SERIAL ASSIGNMENT TABLES

Assault Support Serial Assignment Table

Supplies and Weight

Wave Serial Troop Unit No. Equipment Personnel Equipment Total

F-1
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Assault Support Serial Assignment Table (ASSAT) Bump Plan

Bump Plan in
Wave Order of Priority Description Notes

F-2
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

APPENDIX G
SAMPLE AIR ASSAULT WARNING ORDER

Situation:

• Enemy forces.
• Friendly forces:

Company__________ Likely to move by aircraft.

Company__________ Likely to move by aircraft.

Company__________ Likely to move by aircraft.

Attachments:

__________ likely to move by__________.

__________ likely to move by__________.

Probable Mission:

• Commander’s intent:____________________.

General Instructions:

• Anticipated PZs: ______, ______, ______, ______.

• Anticipated LZs: ______, ______, ______, ______.
• Anticipated objectives: ______, ______, ______, ______.
• Anticipated aircraft availability:

Company______, CH-53E:______, MV-22B: ______, UH-1Y:______.

• Anticipated number of lifts:

Company______, CH-53E:______, MV-22B: ______, UH-1Y:______.

• Anticipated number of lifts:______.

G-1
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Special Instructions:

• PZ control officers:__________.
• PZ control officers:__________.
• HST requests from landing support battalion:__________.
• Personnel:__________.
• Equipment:__________.
• Special equipment:__________.

G-2
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

APPENDIX H
AIR ASSAULT MISSION PLANNING CHECKLIST

This mission planning checklist is designed to guide detailed mission planning after problem
framing, IPB, initial GCE coordination, and ACE estimates of supportability have been
completed. If possible, key personnel (mission commander, AMC, AFL, AFC, EFL, FSC, S-2)
should be collocated throughout the planning process and continuously share information as
the plan is refined.

Enemy Situation. The outputs of IPB must be considered throughout planning. A streamlined request for information
process is critical to developing a sound tactical plan and will enhance planning efficiency.
Rules of Engagement. Rules of engagement will be considered during problem framing. A requirement for
supplemental ROE may be identified during detailed planning. These requirements should be requested early.
Ground Tactical Plan. Before an air assault operation can be planned, the ground scheme of maneuver must be
tight. It is the foundation of a successful air assault operation.
• GCE mission:
- Air assault task force mission.
- Commander’s intent.
- Objectives.
- General scheme of maneuver.
- PZ/LZ (X, Y, offset landing from objective).
- Timeline/expected time on deck/required CAS coverage.
- L-hour/H-hour (purpose/not later than/effects of changes).
- Other joint/MAGTF assets/missions (aviation/ground).
- Map datum/imagery/gridded reference matrix.
• GO criteria:
- Number of Marines (minimum on deck, first wave, total, extract).
- Equipment.
- Fire support (organic and nonorganic).
• NO GO criteria:
- Threat.
- Weather.
• Fires:
- Direct fires: type/location.
- Indirect fires: type/location/azimuth of fire (AOF)/principal direction of fire (PDF)/ordinate/communications/
preplanned targets/scheduled/TRPs/round count/direct support/general support.
- Aviation: number/type/ordnance/TOS/playtime/call signs/communications.
- FSCMs/ACMs.
- Control/approval of fires/DAS to CAS transition/transfer of terminal control.

H-1
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

- Priority of fires/EFST.
- Pre L-hour fires.
- Reactive suppression of enemy air defenses (RSEAD).
- Attack guidance matrix (AGM)/HPT list/damage criteria/target priorities.
- Battlefield illumination.
• Current friendly situation:
- Location/marking.
- Capabilities (communications, weapons, target marking, joint terminal air controller/joint forward observer).
- Concurrent operations.
• Objective area considerations:
- Movement to objective (as applicable).
- Actions on the objective.
- Phase lines.
- Communications plan (tactical air direction/tactical nets).
- Location of key personnel (commanding officer/XO/first sergeant/TACP/fire support team/corpsman).
- TACP capabilities (radios/target marking/designating/video data link/digitally aided CAS).
- Signal plan.
• Contingencies:
- Immediate re-embark (trigger/signal [primary/alternate]).
- Emergency extract plan (trigger/signal [primary/alternate]).
- CASEVAC plan/levels I, II, III facilities/casualty collection point (trigger/signal [primary/alternate]).
- Detainee plan—how many and destination.
- Resupply time—event driven and weight.
- Airborne reaction force/QRF location/trigger/communications/response time/assets.
• Execution checklist.
Landing Plan. The landing plan is designed to support the ground tactical plan. It contains the details of how the
assault force will be inserted and extracted, what fires will support the insert and extract and the C2 procedures for
the assault. The number and type of aircraft and LZs available will affect the speed of the combat build-up in the
objective area.
• Mission assets/location/routing/TOS:
- Offensive air support (OAS).
- Assaults.
- Command and control.
- EW.
- AAW/crisis action planning (CAP).
- UAS.
• Key personnel:
- Mission commander.
- AMC: call sign/net/location.
- AFL: call sign/net/location.
- EFL: call sign/net/location.

H-2
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

- Alternates.
- AFC.
- TACP/FSC.
• Timeline:
- Mission.
- Planning.
• Environmental considerations:
- Solar/lunar almanac program.
- Electrical/optical tactical decision aids/absolute humidity.
- Shadowing.
- Winds:
1. Acoustic signature.
2. Battlefield obscurants/marks.
3. Assault landing heading.
4. Hover holds.
- Temperature: aircraft performance.
- Cloud cover:
1. Aid/degrade NVG performance.
2. Fixed-wing CAS and/or rotary-wing CAS/UAS.
- Visibility:
1. LZ/target acquisition.
2. Tactics.
3. Formations.
- Terrain analysis:
1. LOS communications analysis.
2. Visual/senor acquisition:
a. Holding area/battle position.
• LZs:
- Location:
1. Primary/alternate (trigger to use alternate).
2. Size/shape/composition/condition/elevation/slope/obstacles/key terrain.
- Approach/departure path:
1. Primary/alternate.
2. IP/exit point.
3. Escort location/type.
- Landing plan (formation/offset/sites/points/time between elements and waves).
- Debarkation and consolidation.
- Time on deck.
- Threat location/avenues of approach.
- Winter/Devil.
- GO/NO GO criteria for assaults.
- Prohibitive interference for escorts.

H-3
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

- Wave-offs.
- Evasive actions.
- Disembark authority (possible triggers or conditions to delay disembarkation).
- Accountability reporting/communications path.
• Fires
- Indirect fires: type/location/AOF/PDF/ordinate/communications/preplanned targets/scheduled/TRPs/round
count/direct support/general support.
- Aviation: number/type/ordnance/TOS/call signs/communications.
- FSCMs/ACMs.
- Fires geometry.
- Weapon to target match.
- Control/approval of fires/DAS to CAS transition/transfer of terminal control.
- Priority of fires/EFST.
- Pre L-hour fires/fires in support of assaults landing (all waves/extract).
- RSEAD.
- AGM/HPT list/damage criteria/target priorities.
- ITG:
1. Far (orients flight to LZ).
2. Near (marks actual LZ or landing points).
3. Primary/alternate.
4. Trigger/communications procedures.
- Weapons condition.
- Sectors of fire.
- Battlefield illumination:
1. Type/location/duration.
2. Trigger/communications procedures.
• Extract considerations:
- Time/trigger/location/communications path.
- No communications plan.
- Location of MACO gate/MACO procedures/ITG planning:
1. Extract by serial or maximum lift.
2. Minimum force prior to last wave.
• Contingencies:
- Contingency holding/response time
- Immediate re-embark (trigger/signal [primary/alternate]).
- Emergency extract plan (trigger/signal [primary/alternate]).
- CASEVAC plan/levels I, II, III facilities/casualty collection point (trigger/signal [primary/alternate]).
- TRAP planning/TRAP force and launch criteria/downed aircraft en route or in zone.
- Detainee plan—how many and destination.
- Resupply time—event driven and weight.
- Airborne reaction force/QRF location/trigger/communications/response time/assets.

H-4
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• Communications review:
- Radio in/out:
1. Aircraft.
2. GCE.
- Mandatory communications (IP-LZ integration):
1. Net.
2. Priority of communications.
- MACCS reporting.
- Situation updates.
- Execution checklist items.
- Chattermark.
- Emission control (EMCON).
- No communications plan.
Air Movement Plan. The air movement plan supports the landing plan and ultimately the ground tactical plan. It
specifies the air movement schedule and provides instruction for the movement of troops, equipment, and supplies
from the PZ to the LZ. The air movement plan must integrate and deconflict mission assets.
• Mission assets: location/routing/TOS:
- OAS.
- Assaults.
- C2.
- EW.
- AAW/CAP.
- UAS.
• Key personnel:
- Mission commander.
- AMC: call sign/net/location.
- AFL: call sign/net/location.
- EFL: call sign/net/location.
- Alternates.
- AFC.
- TACP/FSC.
• Timeline:
- Mission.
- Planning.
• Environmental considerations:
- Solar/lunar almanac program.
- Shadowing.
- Winds.
1. Acoustic signature.
2. Battlefield obscurants/marks.
- Temperature.
1. Aircraft performance.

H-5
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

- Cloud cover:
1. Aid/degrade NVG performance.
- Visibility:
1. Target acquisition.
2. Tactics.
3. Formations.
- Terrain analysis:
1. LOS communications analysis.
2. Visual/sensor acquisition.
3. Terrain masking/clutter.
• Ingress/egress:
- Escort requirements/assets/type/prohibitive interference.
- Rendezvous:
1. Assault.
2. Escort.
- Profile (terrain flight/low altitude tactics/medium altitude).
- First/last probable point of enemy contact.
- Power checks.
- Fire control, emissions, navigation, communication, expendable checks.
- Weapons checks.
- Aircraft survivability equipment settings/indications/expendable usage.
- Distance/time/fuel analysis:
1. Mission (hold short)/Joker/Bingo.
2. Diverts.
3. FARP/tanker:
a. Fuel/ordnance requirements.
b. Priority for fuel.
- Goggle/de-goggle procedures.
- CBRN.
- Evasive actions:
1. Slide/scram criteria.
2. Scatter plan/rendezvous.
- Inadvertent instrumental meteorological conditions.
- Loss of visual contact/rendezvous.
- Downed aircraft/on-scene commander: asset attrition.
- Holding.
- Battle damage checks.
- Route (special instructions coordination):
1. Primary/alternate.
2. Authority to change.
3. Formation.
4. Airspeed.

H-6
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

5. Altitude.
6. Lighting.
7. Communications.
8. Obstacles.
9. Navigation procedures.
10. NVD considerations.
11. Identification, friend or foe/lame duck procedures.
• Fires:
- Indirect fires: type/location/AOF/PDF/ordinate/communications/preplanned targets/scheduled/TRPs/round
count/direct support/general support.
- Aviation: number/type/ordnance/TOS/call signs/communications.
- AAW/CAP/bullseye.
- FSCMs/ACMs.
- Fires geometry.
- Control/approval of fires.
- RSEAD.
- Weapons condition.
• Contingencies:
- CASEVAC plan/levels I, II, III facilities/casualty collection point (trigger/signal [primary/alternate]).
- TRAP planning/TRAP force and launch criteria/downed aircraft en route or in zone.
- Resupply time—event driven and weight.
- Airborne reaction force/QRF location/trigger/communications/response time/assets.
• Communications review:
- Radio in/out:
1. Aircraft.
2. GCE.
- Communications requirements.
- MACCS reporting.
- Situation updates.
- FARP/air-to-air refueling.
- Execution checklist items.
- Chattermark.
- EMCON.
- No communications plan.
Load Plan. The load plan assigns serials, personnel and cargo, to each aircraft in each wave. The PZ is an objective
area and must be planned in detail. Once the ASLT is complete, the AFC can complete the ASSAT. Pickup zone
operations will set the tempo for the air assault and are the first opportunity to gain momentum. It must be simple,
briefed in detail, and understood by the ACE, GCE, and LCE.
• Mission assets: location/routing/TOS:
- CAS.
- Assaults.
- C2.

H-7
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

- EW.
- AAW/CAP.
- UAS.
• Key personnel:
- AMC: call sign/net/location.
- AFL: call sign/net/location.
- EFL: call sign/net/location.
- Alternates.
- AFC.
- Aviation ground support/FARP officer in charge.
- MMT/air boss.
- PZ control officer.
- MACO.
• Timeline:
- Mission.
- Planning.
• Environmental considerations:
- Solar/lunar almanac program.
- Shadowing.
- Winds:
1. Acoustic signature.
2. Battlefield obscurants/marks.
3. Assault landing heading.
4. Hover holds.
- Temperature: aircraft performance.
- Cloud cover: aid/degrade NVG performance.
- Visibility:
1. Target acquisition.
2. Tactics.
3. Formations.
- Terrain analysis:
1. LOS communications analysis.
2. Visual/sensor acquisition.
• PZ operations:
- Marking of friendly units and positions.
- LZs:
1. Location/size/shape/composition/condition/elevation/slope/obstacles/key terrain approach/departure path.
2. Primary/alternate.
3. IP.
4. Escort location/type.
- Landing plan (formation/sites/points).

H-8
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

- ITG:
1. Far (orients flight to LZ).
2. Near (marks actual LZ or landing points).
3. Primary/alternate.
4. Trigger/communications procedures.
- Wave-offs.
- MACO gate/MACO procedures.
- Time on deck.
- ASLT.
- ASSAT.
- Serial breakdown: serial/passenger weight.
- HST/external loads.
- Priority serials/location of key personnel.
- Bump plan/straggle plan/drop dead.
- Aircraft marking.
- Accountability reporting/communications path.
- Threat location/avenues of approach.
- FARP:
1. Fuel/ordnance requirements.
2. Priority for fuel.
• Communications review:
- Radio in/out:
1. Aircraft.
2. GCE.
- Communications requirements.
- MACCS reporting.
- Situation updates.
- Execution checklist items.
- Chattermark.
- EMCON.
- No communications plan.
Staging Plan. The staging plan assembles units and air assets in the PZ in preparation for loading. A logical and
well thought out staging plan will increase the efficiency of the load plan. This phase encompasses departure point
operations and routing to the PZ. Refer to the air movement plan for routing considerations.
• Timeline:
- Mission.
- Planning.
• Staging timeline:
- GCE arrival: HST/external loads.
- ACE arrival.
- Alert posture.

H-9
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• Airfield:
- Marshalling.
- Arming.
• Amphibious shipping:
- Deck cycle.
- Ready cycle.
- Point of intended movement.
- Cross-deck requirements.
• Communications review:
- Radio in/out:
1. Aircraft.
2. GCE.
- Communications requirements.
- MACCS reporting.
- Situation updates.
- FARP.
- Execution checklist items.
- Chattermark.
- EMCON.
- No communications plan.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

APPENDIX I
FIVE BASIC PLANS FOR
AN AIR ASSAULT OPERATION

Successful use of assault support aircraft requires a careful analysis of METT-T and detailed,
precise reverse planning. The formats in this appendix provide a guide for the development of
the five basic plans that comprise an air assault operation, which are—

• Ground tactical plan.

• Landing plan.
• Air movement plan.
• Loading plan.
• Staging plan.

As discussed earlier in chapter 3, planning is conducted in reverse order beginning with the
ground CONOPS and tactical plan for the mission. See figure I-1 for the planning versus
execution sequence.

Planning

Staging Loading Air Movement Landing Ground

Plan Plan Plan Plan Tactical
Plan

PZ LZ II

AA
PZ LZ
II
Execution
Reconnaissance PZ Selection Flight Planning LZ Considerations
Security PZ Control RP Locations Security
Guides PZ C2 C2 Control Measures Supporting Fires
C2 Movement Table Movement Table Orientation
Sequence Bump Plan SEAD C2 Formation
Defend PZ Sequencing Timings CSS
PZ Posture Refuel/Rearm Resupply/CASEVAC
Prepare Fires Flight Modes

LEGEND
AA assembly area
CASEVAC casualty evacuation
RP release point

Figure I-1. Air Assault Operations Planning vs. Execution Sequence.

I-1
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

GROUND TACTICAL PLAN

All planning revolves around this plan. The plan specifies actions in the objective area that
ultimately accomplish the mission. The following information provides a guide that can be used
to establish the plan:

• MAGTF commander’s mission and intent.

• GCE commander’s mission and intent.
• AFC mission and intent.
• Forced time schedule:
—Time that assault elements land (L-hour).
—Reverse planning sequence:

1. Time/event
____ /L-hour.
____ /First assault waves arrive in PZ.
____ /Assault element arrives in assembly area.
____ /Assault element arrives in holding area.
____ /Assault element arrives in PZ.
____ /Issue warning order.
____ /Intelligence (S-2) brief.
____ /Mission commander’s guidance.
____ /Staff briefs.
____ /Operations order.
____ /Mission brief.

• Actions required in the objective area:

—Secure LZ: (name/coord) .
—Establish LZ control at above LZs.
—Secure objectives: (name/coord) .
—Perform the following actions upon securing objectives:__________.

• Mission assigned to subordinate units:

—Company ____.
—Company ____.
—Company ____.
—Company ____.
—Attachments with assault elements:____.
—Follow-on attachments:____.
• Coordinating instructions.

I-2
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

LANDING PLAN
The landing plan must support the ground tactical plan. The plan sequences elements into the area
of operations so that units arrive at locations and times prepared to execute the ground tactical
plan. The following information provides a guide that can be used to establish the plan:

• Size and location of primary and alternate LZ(s).

—Primary LZ:
Size ______________ Location ______________

Size ______________ Location ______________

Size ______________ Location ______________

Size ______________ Location ______________

—Alternate LZ:
Size ______________ Location ______________

Size ______________ Location ______________

Size ______________ Location ______________

Size ______________ Location ______________

• Known and suspected enemy location in and around the LZ:

Size ______________ Location ______________

Size ______________ Location ______________

Size ______________ Location ______________

Size ______________ Location ______________

• Unit tactical integrity and spread loading:

—Squads in one aircraft.
—Platoons in one wave.
—Key leaders NOT loaded on the same aircraft.
—Crew-served weapons and crews sufficiently spread loaded.
• All members briefed and oriented to the landing:
—Briefed on actions at the LZ.
—Briefed on actions to secure the LZ.
• Task organization:
—For landing.
—Subsequent to landing.

I-3
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• Determine who decides to switch to an alternate LZ:

—AFC.
—AMC.
—Assault flight leader.
• Factors in deciding to switch to alternate LZs:
—LZ too hot.
—Downed aircraft in LZ.
—Escort warning of ambush.
—Other.
• Plan for supporting fires:
—Planned fires for air movement.
—Planned fires for landing.
—Preparation fires in LZ.
—Preparation fires near LZ.
—Distant preparation fires.
—Preplanned fires in and around LZ.
—On-call fires.
—Planned fires subsequent to landing.
• Plans for CASEVAC:
—Air.
—Ground.
• Plans for resupply:
—Air.
—Ground.

AIR MOVEMENT PLAN

The air movement plan is based on the ground tactical and landing plans. The plan specifies the
air movement schedule and provides instructions for the air movement of troops, equipment,
and supplies from PZs to LZs. The following information provides a guide that can be used to
establish the plan:

• Tentative flight routes are selected by the AFL. The AFC’s S-2 studies the routes and
makes recommendations. The AFC’s S-3 closely notes checkpoints and control features.
• The air movement schedule is developed to accomplish the landing plan. The air
movement schedule is provided by the AFL and AMC. The AFC studies the schedule and
makes recommendations.
• Air speed, flight altitudes, and aircraft formations are determined by the AFL.

I-4
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• Escort of transport aircraft and air fire support during air movement is determined by
the AMC.
• Aircraft availability information is provided to the AFC:
—CH-53E____.
—UH-1Y____.
—AH-l____.
—MV-22____.
—Fixed-wing available:____.
• The wave allocation of transport aircraft is determined by the AFC.
• Wave allocation of escort aircraft is determined by the AMC.
• Air points of departure from a start point in the air to the LZ are determined by the AMC.
• Loading times are determined by the AMC.
—Wave PZ load time:

1__________.
2__________.
3__________.
4__________.

• Lift-off times are determined by the AMC.

—Wave lift-off time:

1__________.
2__________.
3__________.
4__________.

LOADING PLAN
The loading plan is based on the air movement plan. It ensures that Marines, equipment, and
supplies are loaded on the correct aircraft. Aircraft loads are also placed in priority to establish a
bump plan (see table I-1). The following information provides a guide that can be used to establish
the plan:

• Refer to paragraphs 5 and 6 of the guide for the air movement plan.
—Review the total number (by type) of transport aircraft available.
—Review the number of aircraft by type allocated to each wave.
• Determine which personnel, weapons, and equipment will be loaded on each aircraft.
—Maintain unit integrity.
—Spread load key personnel, weapons, and equipment.

I-5
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Table I-1. Example of an Individual Bump Plan.

BUMP PLAN
Aircraft Unload Sequence
101-1 Off 1st Johnson
2nd Jones
3rd Smith
4th Howard
5th Stevens
6th Britt
7th Randall
8th Bump entire load

• Determine if the preparation of a written document is necessary. An informal document

lists the personnel, key weapons, and equipment by aircraft. A formal document includes
an ASSAT.
• Establish a bump plan so that essential personnel and equipment are NOT unnecessarily
delayed in case of aircraft complications.
—The plan defines who (by name) gets off each aircraft first, second, third, etc., in the event
the aircraft cannot carry a full load.
—The bump plan also defines when each aircraft load will subsequently be loaded in the
event an aircraft cannot fly.
• The ground commander designates unit loading sites.
• The ground commander establishes the plan and procedure for controlling the arrival,
loading, and departure of all aircraft.
• The ground commander designates a PZ control officer.

STAGING PLAN
The staging plan establishes the specific sequence, loads, ground routes, guides, and times from
the assembly area to the holding area and from the holding area to the PZ. The example listed in
table I-2 provides a guide that can be used to establish the plan.

Table I-2. Example of a Staging Plan

Depart Aerial
Sequence Load Route Guide Hold Area Rendezvous PZ
1 101-1 A Lt Jones 0500 0515
2 101-2 B SSgt Brown 0500 0515
3 101-3 C Sgt Smith 0500 0515
4 102-1 A Lt Wells 0515 0530

I-6
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

APPENDIX J
AIRCRAFT AVAILABILITY TABLE

AIRCRAFT AVAILABILITY TABLE

Unit and Aircraft Deck
Designation Aircraft T/M/S Available Aircraft Origin Launch Capacity Troops Cargo Remarks

Notes:

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

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J-2
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

APPENDIX K
ASSAULT SUPPORT LANDING TABLE

ASSAULT SUPPORT LANDING TABLE

From Time Destination LZ Troop/Units/
Type Aircraft PZ/Ship/ Equipment/
Wave Serial Aircraft Origin Airfield Load Launch Land Primary Alternate Total Weight

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

This Page Intentionally Left Blank

K-2
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

APPENDIX L
AIRCRAFT CHARACTERISTICS

To efficiently load an MAATF aboard assault support aircraft, ground commanders and staffs
must know the exact composition of the force, the essential characteristics of the types of aircraft
to be used for the operation, and the methods of computing aircraft requirements.

Maximum aircraft loads are affected by altitude and temperature and will differ widely according
to topography and climate conditions common to specific zones or areas of military operations.
Loads will further vary based on the location of, approaches to, and exits from LZs; pilot
proficiency; aviation unit SOP; type of engine in the aircraft; and age of both aircraft and aircraft
engine. Therefore, two identical aircraft may not be able to pick up and carry identical loads.

This appendix discusses the general characteristics of Marine Corps rotary-wing aircraft.
Refer to the NTTP 3-22.5 Tactical Pocket Guide series for detailed information, technical
data, and guidance for computing aircraft requirements. Also see NTTP 3-22.5-ASTACSOP
for information and examples of detailed air loading and air movement forms. The same air
movement forms common to amphibious operations can be used for subsequent operation
ashore when such movement documentation is essential in planning operations.

AIRCRAFT AVAILABILITY
Aircraft availability is the overriding consideration in air assault operations. It is directly
influenced by the adequacy and efficiency of maintenance and supply activities and aircraft
utilization and scheduling procedures, as well as by the distance of support units from the
operating units.

The supporting and supported commanders should be aware that everyday use, over an
extended period, of all available aircraft results in a reduced mission availability rate for
future operations. In the course of sustained operations, aircraft maintenance must be carefully
considered and programmed so that heavy flying requirements will not cause a continual
decrease in aircraft availability.

Supported unit commanders, staffs, and logistic planners must conserve the use of available
aircraft by—

• Establishing acceptable availability rates prior to operational commitment.

• Establishing FARPs to eliminate flying hours expended for those purposes.

L-1
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• Utilizing surface means for transportation for logistic support whenever possible.
• Coordinating logistic planning to ensure full utilization of all aircraft sorties and to avoid dupli-
cation of effort.

CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS

Capabilities
Assault support aircraft have the following capabilities:

• Under normal conditions, assault support aircraft can ascend and descend at steep angles, a
capability that enables them to operate from confined and unimproved areas.
• Marines and their combat equipment can be unloaded from an assault support aircraft with fast
ropes and rappelling means while the aircraft hovers a short distance above the ground. A rope
ladder can be used to load personnel when the aircraft cannot land.
• Cargo can be transported as an external load and delivered to areas inaccessible to other types
of aircraft or ground transportation.
• Because of a wide speed range and high maneuverability at slow speeds, rotary-wing aircraft can
fly safely and efficiently at a low altitude, using terrain and trees for cover and concealment.
• An assault support aircraft’s ability to fly at high or low altitudes and to decelerate rapidly,
combined with its capacity for slow forward speed and nearly vertical landing, enables it to
operate under marginal weather conditions.
• Assault support aircraft can land on the objective area in a tactical formation, LZs permitting.
• Assault support aircraft can operate at night and in periods of reduced visibility.
• Aircraft flying at low levels are capable of achieving surprise, deceiving the enemy at the LZs,
and employing shock effect through the use of suppressive fires.
• Engine and rotor noise may deceive the enemy as to the direction of approach and intended
flight path.

Limitations
Limitations of Marine Corps assault support/rotary-wing aircraft include—

• The high fuel consumption rate of rotary-wing aircraft imposes limitations on range and
aircraft load. Aircraft may reduce fuel load to permit an increased aircraft load. However,
reducing the fuel load reduces the range and flexibility factors, which must be considered
in planning.
• Hail, sleet, icing, heavy rains, and gusty winds (45 knots or more) limit or preclude use
of aircraft.
• Engine/rotor noise may compromise secrecy.
• The load carrying capability of rotary-wing aircraft decreases with increases of
altitude, humidity, and temperature. This limitation may be compensated for through
fuel load reduction.
• Crosswinds may affect the selection of direction of landing and lift-off.

L-2
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

MV-22 CHARACTERISTICS
The characteristics of the MV-22 are as follows (see fig. L-1 on page L-4 for a visual
representation):

Aircraft type/models: MV-22B

Dimensions:
Height 22 feet 1 inches
Weight 36,000 pounds (empty)
52,600 (vertical takeoff)/57,000 (short takeoff)/
60,500 (self-deploy)
Width 84 feet 7 inches
Length 57 feet 4 inches
Airspeed:
Maximum endurance 130 knots calibrated airspeed (KCAS)
Maximum range 215 KCAS
Maximum airspeed 275 KCAS
Cruise 220 KCAS
Tactical cruise 240 KCAS
Fuel capacity:
Pounds 11,700 (13,750 with aft sponson tank)
Gallons 1,720 (2,021 with aft sponson tank)
Removable 3 x ~2,200 pound Mission Auxiliary Fuel
Tank System mission configurable fuel
tanks to support aviation-delivered ground
refueling missions
Payloads: 24 seats
12,500 pounds external (hook limit)
12 litters
Endurance: 3+00, air-to-air refueling capable

Weapons systems: GAU-16/21 or M240D tailgun, belly-mounted

GAU-17, LUU-2, LUU-19

L-3
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Other systems: Global Positioning System (GPS), forward-

looking infrared (FLIR)

Communications equipment:
2 x ARC-210 UHF/VHF/FM radios capable of HAVE
QUICK II/single-channel ground and airborne
radio system (SINCGARS)/narrowband
satellite communications (SATCOM) and
direction finding with embedded encryption

Tactical data link AYK-28 Blue Force Tracker with

messaging capability

Additional capability includes antenna connections for Marine-portable radios.

Limited airframes possess wideband SATCOM system for additional data
communication capabilities.

Aircraft survivability equipment:

Radar warning receiver (RWR) APR-39A(V)2; APR-39C(V)2

Expendables ALE-47

Missile warning AAR-47

Directed infrared countermeasure AAQ-24

84 Feet 7 Inches

22 Feet 1 Inches

6 Feet 2 Inches

57 Feet 4 Inches

Figure L-1. MV-22 Dimensions.

L-4
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

CH-53E CHARACTERISTICS
The characteristics of the CH-53E are as follows (see fig. L-2 on page L-6 for a visual
representation):

Aircraft type/models: CH-53E

Dimensions:
Height 28 feet 4 inches
Weight 43,800 pounds
Maximum gross weight 73,500 pounds
Rotor diameter 79 feet
Length 99 feet .5 inches
Airspeed:
Maximum endurance 70 knots indicated airspeed (KIAS)
Maximum range 130–140 KIAS
Maximum airspeed 150 KIAS
Fuel capacity:
Pounds 15,500 (aircraft fuel cells)
Gallons 2,277
Removable 3 x 5,400 pounds Tactical Bulk Fuel Delivery
System mission configurable fuel tanks to support
aviation-delivered ground refueling missions
Payloads: 28 seats
43 seats with centerline seating
Cargo roller system for internal cargo
Note: Centerline seating not available with ballistic protection
system installed.
36,000 pounds external (hook limit)
24 litters max
Endurance: typical 3+30 hours, helicopter air-to-air refueling
capable
Endurance: best case 4+30

L-5
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Weapons systems:
Guns 3 x GAU-21

Other systems GPS, FLIR, heads-up display

Communications equipment:
3 x ARC-210 UHF/VHF/FM radios capable of HAVE
QUICK II/SINCGARS/ narrowband SATCOM
with KY-58

Tactical data link AYK-28(V)2 Blue Force Tracker/Electronic

Data Manager

Additional capability includes antenna connections for Marine-portable radios.

Aircraft survivability equipment:

RWR APR-39

Expendables ALE-47

Missile warning AAR-47

Directed infrared countermeasure AAQ-24

Ballistic protection system Removable, mission configurable

79 Feet

28 Feet 4 Inches

8 Feet 4.9 Inches

99 Feet .5 Inches

Figure L-2. CH 53E Dimensions.

L-6
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

UH-1Y CHARACTERISTICS
The characteristics of the UH-1Y are as follows (see fig. L-3 on page L-9 for a visual
representation):

Aircraft type/models: UH-1Y

Dimensions:
Height 14 feet 7 inches

Weight 18,500 pounds (maximum gross weight)

Rotor diameter 48 feet

Width (folded) 15 feet 1 inch

Length 58 feet 4 inches

Airspeed:
Maximum endurance 60–70 KCAS

Cruise 120–140 KCAS, stores dependent

Maximum airspeed 170 KCAS

Fuel capacity:
Pounds 2,650

Gallons 386

Endurance: 2+15 (flight profile/mission dependent)

Weapons systems:
Guns GAU-17

M240D

GAU-21

Rockets LAU-61

LAU-68

High explosive, white phosphorous, red

phosphorous, overt/covert illumination, flechette

Precision-guided munitions AGR-19 (Advanced Precision Kill

Weapons System)

L-7
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Typical mission configuration:

Ordnance 14, 2.75-inch rockets; GAU-21/GAU-17

Passengers 5-inch standard seat configuration, 6 without
rucks in seats, 6 with rucks with combat securing
gear, 8 administrative without ordnance fast
rope gantries (up to 2 per aircraft), external
load (up to 4,000 pounds administrative
without ordnance; combat planning estimate:
1,500-3,500 pounds)

Other systems:
EW Payload ALQ-231
FLIR AAQ-22E (with laser range finder, laser
designator, infrared laser pointer, and color
charged coupled device)

Communications equipment:
3 x ARC-210 UHF/VHF/FM radios capable of HAVE
QUICK II/SINCGARS/narrowband SATCOM
with KY-58 for encryption
Miscellaneous ROVER/mIRC via PRC-117 F/G (referred to as
C3 mission kit)

Aircraft survivability equipment:

RWR APR-39B(V)2
Expendables ALE-47
Missile warning AAR-47(V)2

L-8
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

48 Feet

14 Feet 7 Inches

3 Feet 5 Inches

58 Feet 4 Inches

Figure L-3. UH-1Y Dimensions.

UH-60 A/L BLACK HAWK CHARACTERISTICS

The characteristics for the UH-60 A/L/M Black Hawk are as follows (see fig. L-4 on page L-10
for a visual representation):

Aircraft types/models: UH-60 A/L/M Black Hawk

Dimensions:
Height 16 feet 11 inches

Weight 10,625 pounds (empty)

Maximum takeoff weight 23,500 pounds

Rotor diameter 53 feet 8 inches

Length 64 feet 10 inches

Airspeed:

Maximum endurance 75 KIAS

Maximum airspeed 156 KIAS

Fuel capacity:
Pounds 2,450

Gallons 362

L-9
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Endurance:
Payloads 9,000 pounds or 11 combat-loaded troops
(16 with seats removed)

External capacity 23,500 pounds

Endurance 2+30 hours, depending on configuration

Weapons systems:
Guns (defensive only) 2 x M240

Other systems:

Navigation Doppler/GPS navigation set

Communications equipment:
FM 1 x ARC 210D SINCGARS with KY-58

VHF 1 x ARC-186

UHF 1 x ARC-164 HAVE QUICK II with KY-58

HF 1 x ARC-220 HF radio with KY-100

Aircraft survivability equipment:

RWR APR-39A(V)2

Infrared ALQ-156A(V)2 or ALQ-162(V)2

Expendables M-130

53 Feet 8 Inches

16 Feet 11 Inches

64 Feet 10 Inches

Figure L-4. UH-60 A/L/M Black Hawk Dimensions.

L-10
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

CH-47D/F CHINOOK CHARACTERISTICS

The characteristics of the CH-47D/F Chinook are as follows (see fig. L-5 on L-12 for a visual
representation):

Aircraft type/models: CH-47D/F Chinook

Dimensions:
Height 18 feet 11 inches

Weight 23,400 pounds (empty)

Maximum gross weight 50,000 pounds

Rotor diameter 53 feet 8 inches

Length 98 feet 10 inches

Airspeed:
Maximum endurance 80 KIAS

Maximum airspeed 170 KIAS

Fuel Capacity:

Pounds 7,000

Gallons 1,030

Payloads: 20,000 pounds internal cargo

Passengers 33+3 crew, or 55 bench seating

Endurance: 2+20 hours

Other systems:
Navigation Doppler/GPS navigation set

Communications equipment:
FM 1 x ARC 210D SINCGARS with KY-58

VHF 1 x ARC-186

UHF 1 x ARC-164 HAVE QUICK II with KY-58

HF 1 x ARC-220 HF radio with KY-100

L-11
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Aircraft survivability equipment:

RWR APR-39A(V)2

Missile defense AAR-57(V)

Expendables ALQ-212(V), M-130, and AAR-57

53 Feet 8 Inches

18 Feet 11 Inches

98 Feet 10 Inches

Figure L-5. CH-47D/F Chinook Dimensions.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

APPENDIX M
COMBINED ARMS REHEARSAL

The combined arms rehearsal is a method or technique for all fire support agencies to conduct a
walkthrough of the EFST by phase or stage of the fire support plan:

• Area overview and orientation of the battlespace.

• Ground tactical plan.
• Assets available/flows/fire support assets:
—Rotary-wing (assault/escort/OAS).
—Fixed-wing (EW/MIR/OAS).
—UAS.
—Indirect fires.
—Ammunition/standard conventional load:
* Artillery (munitions/AOF/series).
* Mortars (munitions/PDF/series).
* Naval surface fires (munitions/PDF/series).
* Rotary-wing (munitions/battle positions).
* Fixed-wing (munitions/IPs).
• GCE asset availability:
—Reconnaissance.
—Maneuver.
—HIMARS.
—Artillery (M777A2).
—81 mm mortars.

The combined arms rehearsal is chaired by the FSC. A combined arms rehearsal is particularly
important when preparing for complex, integrated operations involving multiple fires agencies.
It is crucial to synchronize the actions of all the units involved in the operation. The combined
arms rehearsal is the confirmation of the fire synchronization meeting, it is not a discussion or
coordination meeting. Inputs to the combined arms rehearsal are as follows:

• Mission commander’s guidance for fires.

• Concept of fires.
• GCE EFST (refined).
• HPT list.
• AGM.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

• Decision support matrix.

• Updated S-2 threat matrix.
• Specific mission-related ROE.

Attendees (mandatory roll call conducted) for the combined arms rehearsal are as follows:

• FSC.
• S-2.
• S-3.
• S-3A.
• Fire support team leader.
• FAC.
• Air officer.
• UAS representative.
• DASC representative.
• Artillery liaison officer (if required).
• GCE mortar representative (if required).
• EFL/alternate EFL.
• AFL’s representative.
• AMC’s representative.
• Tactical air representative.
• C2 and communications representative.
• EW representative.

The FSC chairs the combined arms rehearsal and is in charge of the coordination and flow of the
meeting. The FSC briefs changes to the mission statement and/or the commander’s concept of
fires. The FSC will orient the staff members of the general GCE scheme of maneuver, conduct an
area overview of the battlespace, and coordinate each EFST by phase or stage. Once the FSC has
completed his/her portion of the brief, each agency will then brief their respective responsibility.

Specifically, the combined arms rehearsal affords all operational participants a collective brief of
the EFST’s Task, Purpose, Method, and Effects paragraphs:

Task
• The “what” of the EFST.
• FSC reviews the EFST objective.
Purpose
• The “why” of the EFST.
• FSC reviews the EFST function.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Method
• The “who” and “how” of the EFST.
• Upon completion of the brief, all executors know what to expect to say, hear, and do if the mis-
sion goes as planned.
• Usually briefed in the priority, location, observation, trigger, communications, and rehearsal
format (referred to as PLOT-CR):
—Priority. Priority of asset and/or the fires at that phase or stage.
—Location. Location of the fire support asset and target, if known.
—Observation. Observer for the fires and the observer’s call sign and location.
—Trigger. Trigger associated with those fires and/or the mission timeline.
—Communications. On which communications net and to whom will those communications
be made.
• Rehearsal. An actual rehearsal of the event. This may be rehearsal of the actual expected com-
munications or as large as full rehearsal of the event.
Effects
• Quantifies what is successful accomplishment of the task.
• FSC identifies the desired effects for each EFST.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

This Page Intentionally Left Blank

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

APPENDIX N
FIRE SYNCHRONIZATION MEETING

The fire synchronization meeting is conducted to synchronize the Method paragraph of each
EFST during fire support coordination planning of the air assault. Prior planning and organization
is essential to conduct an effective meeting. At a minimum, the following is a list of products that
need to be complete and brought to the fire synchronization meeting:

• Inputs:
—Commander’s guidance for fires.
—Concept of fires.
—GCE EFST.
—HPT list.
—AGM.
—Decision support matrix.
—Target list worksheets.
—Scheduling worksheets.
—AAT.
—Specific mission related ROE.
• Attendees (mandatory roll call conducted):
—FSC.
—Air officer.
—UAS representative.
—DASC representative.
—Artillery liaison officer (if required).
—GCE mortar representative (if required).
—EFL/alternate EFL.
—AFL’s representative.
—Strike flight lead.
—EW representative.

The FSC chairs the fire synchronization meeting and is in charge of the coordination and flow of
the meeting. The FSC will present the general GCE scheme of maneuver to staff members and

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

conduct an area overview of the battlespace. The FSC will then conduct each EFST by phase or
stage of the fire synchronization plan—

• Area overview and orientation of the battlespace.

• Ground tactical plan.
• Assets available/flows/fire support assets available.
—Rotary-wing (assault/escort/OAS).
—Fixed-wing (EW/MIR/OAS).
—UAS.
—Indirect fires.
—Ammunition/standard conventional load.
* Artillery (munitions/AOF/series).
* Mortars (munitions/PDF/series).
* Naval surface fires (munitions, fire support area/series).
* Rotary-wing (munitions/battle positions).
* Fixed-wing (munitions/IPs).

The fire synchronization meeting affords all operational participants a collective brief of the
EFST’s Task, Purpose, Method, and Effects paragraphs:

Task
• The “what” of the EFST.
• FSC reviews the objective, formation, and function (enemy focused) of the EFST.
Purpose
• The “why” of the EFST.
• FSC reviews the GCE maneuver function.
Method
• The “how” of the EFST.
• FSC coordinates and synchronizes assets to support the commander’s intent. This is where the
staff plans how to kill the target.
• Usually briefed by priority, allocation, and restrictions:
—Priority. Priority of the fires maneuver element.
—Allocation. The target is assigned an observer, trigger, agency, and communication path in
order to execute fires.
* Observer (primary/secondary/tertiary).
* Communications net (primary/secondary/tertiary).
* Triggers (when/why) (event or time driven).
* Series/coordinated aviation attacks/preplanned.
* Targets/target areas of interest/TRPs.
* Firing unit action.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

* Assault support.
* Assault support escort.
* CAS actions.
* Battlefield handover and control of fires/approval of fires.
* Communications.
* Routing/flow.
* Sectors of fire/weapons conditions.
—Restrictions:
* FSCMs (permission and restrictive).
* ACMs.
* CAS stack and airspace management.
Effects
• Quantifies what is successful accomplishment of the task.
• Products:
—Refined EFSTs.
—Objective area diagram.
—Objective routing.
• Results:
—Mission timeline.
—Identify gaps. Brief the mission commander on any specific gaps in a desired agency task to
support an aspect of the plan and make a recommendation to fill the gap with another agency
if available.
—Asset shortfalls identified.
—Plan is integrated and deconflicted.

Although the battlefield handover is a component of the Allocation paragraph, it is normally

revisited at the end of the cycle in order to synchronize the battlefield handover by phase or
stage. Once the first EFST is completed in order, by agency, the process will be repeated again.
Repetition of the process ensures an effective fire synchronization meeting. See table N-1 for
an EFST chart.

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Table N-1. Essential Fire Support Task Chart.

TASK
PURPOSE
PRIORITY
Priority of Fires
ALLOCATION
Target #
Target Location
PRIMARY ALTERNATE
Controller/Coordinator
Controller/Coordinator Location
Controller/Coordinator Net
Target Acquisition Assets
Target Acquisition Assets Net
Delivery Assets/Size
Delivery Assets Location
Delivery Assets Net
METHOD Weapon
Forward Observer Required
DAS/CAS
Type of Control
Method of Attack
Coordinate Generation
Terminal Guidance
Gun Target Line
Maximum Ordnance
Trigger
Time on Target
Communications Plan
RESTRICTIONS
Final Attack Heading
Restrictive ACMs
EFFECTS

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

GLOSSARY

Section I. Acronyms and Abbreviations

AAT ........................................................................................................... aircraft availability table

AAW .......................................................................................................................... antiair warfare
ACE ........................................................................................................... aviation combat element
ACM ................................................................................................. airspace coordinating measure
AFC............................................................................................................assault force commander
AFL .................................................................................................................... assault flight leader
AGM ............................................................................................................. attack guidance matrix
AMC ............................................................................................................ air mission commander
AOF ...........................................................................................................................azimuth of fire
ASC(A) ................................................................................. assault support coordinator (airborne)
ASLT ................................................................................................... assault support landing table
ASSAT................................................................................. assault support serial assignment table
ATC ....................................................................................................................... air traffic control

C2....................................................................................................................command and control

CAP................................................................................................................. crisis action planning
CAS......................................................................................................................... close air support
CASEVAC......................................................................................................... casualty evacuation
CBRN.......................................................................chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear
COA ......................................................................................................................... course of action
CONOPS......................................................................................................... concept of operations
CSS .............................................................................................................. combat service support

DAS .........................................................................................................................deep air support

DASC.......................................................................................................... direct air support center
DOA...................................................................................................................days of ammunition
DOS ........................................................................................................................... days of supply

EFL ......................................................................................................................escort flight leader

EFST .........................................................................................................essential fire support task
EMCON .................................................................................................................. emission control
EW ........................................................................................................................electronic warfare

FAC................................................................................................................. forward air controller

FAC(A) .......................................................................................... forward air controller (airborne)
FARP ........................................................................................ forward arming and refueling point
FLIR...........................................................................................................forward-looking infrared
FLOT ......................................................................................................forward line of own troops
FM.................................................................................................................. frequency modulation

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

FSC ..............................................................................................................fire support coordinator

FSCC............................................................................................... fire support coordination center
FSCM.......................................................................................... fire support coordination measure

GCE .............................................................................................................ground combat element

GPS .........................................................................................................Global Positioning System

HEED........................................................................................helicopter emergency egress device

HF ............................................................................................................................. high frequency
HIMARS .............................................................................High Mobility Artillery Rocket System
HPT .......................................................................................................................high-payoff target
HST ..............................................................................................................helicopter support team

IADS ................................................................................................... integrated air defense system

IP ..................................................................................................................................... initial point
IPB ..................................................................................intelligence preparation of the battlespace
ISR ............................................................................intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance
ITG............................................................................................................. initial terminal guidance

KCAS.........................................................................................................knots calibrated airspeed

KIAS ........................................................................................................... knots indicated airspeed
km ...................................................................................................................................... kilometer

LCE ............................................................................................................logistics combat element

LOS ................................................................................................................................ line of sight
LS.................................................................................................................................... landing site
LZ.................................................................................................................................. landing zone

MAATF ............................................................................................... Marine air assault task force

MACCS ............................................................................Marine air command and control system
MACO ............................................................................................ marshalling area control officer
MAGTF ...............................................................................................Marine air-ground task force
MCDP ....................................................................................... Marine Corps doctrinal publication
MCPP.............................................................................................. Marine Corps Planning Process
MCRP .......................................................................................Marine Corps reference publication
MCTP........................................................................................... Marine Corps tactical publication
MCWP ..................................................................................Marine Corps warfighting publication
METT-T.........mission, enemy, terrain and weather, troops and support available—time available
MIR ..........................................................................................multisensor imagery reconnaissance
mm .................................................................................................................................... millimeter
MMT .....................................................................................Marine air traffic control mobile team
MTVR .....................................................................................medium tactical vehicle replacement

NTTP ............................................................................... Navy tactics, techniques, and procedures

NVD.................................................................................................................... night vision device
NVG....................................................................................................................night vision goggle

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

OAS ................................................................................................................. offensive air support

OPORD ..................................................................................................................... operation order

PDF ........................................................................................................... principal direction of fire

POW.......................................................................................................................... prisoner of war
PZ................................................................................................................................... pickup zone

QRF....................................................................................................................quick reaction force

ROE .................................................................................................................. rules of engagement

ROVER .........................................................................remotely operated video enhanced receiver
RSEAD ......................................................................... reactive suppression of enemy air defenses
RWR ............................................................................................................. radar warning receiver

S-1 .......................................................................................................................... personnel officer

S-2 ....................................................................................................................... intelligence officer
S-3 ......................................................................................................................... operations officer
S-3A ........................................................................................................assistant operations officer
S-4 .............................................................................................................................logistics officer
SATCOM...................................................................................................satellite communications
SEAD ..........................................................................................suppression of enemy air defenses
SINCGARS..........................................................single-channel ground and airborne radio system
SOP ..................................................................................................... standard operating procedure

TAC(A) ........................................................................................ tactical air coordinator (airborne)

TACP .......................................................................................................... tactical air control party
TAR ..................................................................................................................... tactical air request
TOS ............................................................................................................................time on station
TRAP ..............................................................................tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel
TRP ................................................................................................................. target reference point

UAS ......................................................................................................... unmanned aircraft system

UHF ................................................................................................................... ultrahigh frequency

VHF .................................................................................................................. very high frequency

XO...........................................................................................................................executive officer

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Section II. Terms and Definitions

acquisition—The process of locating a target with a search radar so that a tracking radar can take
over and begin tracking the target. (MCRP 1-10.2)

air assault—(See the DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)
Operations in which air assault forces (combat, combat support, and combat service support),
using the fire power, mobility, and total integration of assault support assets in their ground or air
roles, maneuver on the battlefield under the control of the mission commander to provide
mobility and firepower of the assigned mission. (MCRP 1-10.2)

air assault force—A force composed primarily of ground and rotary-wing air units organized,
equipped, and trained for air assault operations. (DOD Dictionary)

air assault operation—(See the DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification
follows.) A military action in which combat forces and their equipment maneuver about the
battlefield by helicopters or vertical-landed aircraft.

air defense artillery—Weapons and equipment for actively combating air targets from the
ground. Also called ADA. (DOD Dictionary)

air mission commander—A mission commander, who shall be a properly qualified naval
aviator or naval flight officer, should be designated when separate aircraft formations, each led
by its own formation leader, are required for a common support mission or whenever a formation
of four or more aircraft must perform a multiple sortie mission. The mission commander shall
direct a coordinated plan of action and shall be responsible for the effectiveness of the mission.
Also called AMC. (MCRP 1-10.2)

air movement—Air transport of units, personnel, supplies, and equipment including airdrops
and air landings. (DOD Dictionary)

air officer—An officer (aviator/naval flight officer) who functions as chief adviser to the
commander on all aviation matters. An air officer is normally found at battalion level and higher
within the ground combat element and within the Marine air-ground task force command element
and logistics combat element headquarters staffs. The air officer is the senior member of the
tactical air control party. The battalion air officer supervises the training and operation of the
two battalion forward air control parties. Also called AirO. (MCRP 1-10.2)

air support element—An element task-organized by the Marine air support squadron to perform
various air support control functions. Employment options can range from Marine expeditionary
unit level operations characterized by limited assets and endurance to a multi-division operation
where the air support element is almost if not identical in capability but set apart in responsibilities
and subordinate to the direct air support center. The air support element can function as an
extension of the Navy tactical air control center/amphibious air traffic control center, in conjunction
with the battalion tactical air control party. Also called ASE. (MCRP 1-10.2)

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

airspace coordination area—A three-dimensional block of airspace in a target area, established

by the appropriate commander, in which friendly aircraft are reasonably safe from friendly
surface fires. Also called ACA. (DOD Dictionary)

amphibious air traffic control center—The centralized air traffic control agency on an
amphibious warfare ship responsible for operational control of aircraft departing from and
recovering on the ship and tactical control of airborne helicopters in support of amphibious
assaults. Also called AATCC. (DOD Dictionary)

assault echelon—In amphibious operations, the element of a force comprised of tailored units
and aircraft assigned to conduct the initial assault on the operational area. Also called AE.
(DOD Dictionary)

assault flight leader—An experienced aviator assigned the responsibility for tactical control of
the assault support aircraft taking part in an air assault mission. Also called AFL. (As contained
in this glossary, this term and its definition are applicable to this publication only.)

assault follow-on echelon—In amphibious operations, that echelon of the assault troops,
vehicles, aircraft, equipment, and supplies that, though not needed to initiate the assault, is
required to support and sustain the assault. Also called AFOE. (DOD Dictionary)

assault support—The use of aircraft to provide tactical mobility and logistic support for the
Marine air-ground task force, the movement of high priority cargo and personnel within the
immediate area of operations, in-flight refueling, and the evacuation of personnel and cargo.
Assault support is one of the six functions of Marine aviation. (MCRP 1-10.2)

assault support coordinator (airborne)—An aviator who coordinates, from an aircraft,

the movement of aviation assets during assault support operations. Also called ASC(A).

battle position—1. In ground operations, a defensive location oriented on an enemy avenue of

approach from which a unit may defend. 2. In air operations, an airspace coordination area
containing fire points for attack helicopters. Also called BP. (MCRP 1-10.2)

casualty evacuation—(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification
follows.) The movement of the sick, wounded, or injured. It begins at the point of injury or the
onset of disease. It includes movement both to and between medical treatment facilities. All units
have an evacuation capability. Any vehicle may be used to evacuate casualties. If a medical
vehicle is not used it should be replaced with one at the first opportunity. Similarly, aeromedical
evacuation should replace surface evacuation at the first opportunity. Also called CASEVAC.
(MCRP 1-10.2)

close air support—Air action by manned or unmanned fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft
against hostile targets that are in close proximity to friendly forces and that require detailed
integration of each air mission with the fire and movement of those forces. Also called CAS.
(DOD Dictionary)

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

combat air patrol—An aircraft patrol provided over an objective area, the force protected, the
critical area of a combat zone, or in an air defense area, for the purpose of intercepting and
destroying hostile aircraft before they reach their targets. Also called CAP. (DOD Dictionary)

command and control aircraft—A tactical mission aircraft for the use of the assault support
coordinator (airborne) and helicopterborne unit commander to coordinate and control tactical air
assaults, troop movement, commander’s reconnaissance, and other related missions. Also called
C2 aircraft. (MCRP 1-10.2)

communications-electronics operating instructions—An instruction containing details on call

sign assignments, frequency assignments, codes and ciphers, and authentication tables and their
use. The communications-electronic operating instructions (CEOI) is designated to complement
information contained in operational unit communication standard operating procedures or
Annex K (Combat Information Systems) to the operation order. The most common version of
CEOI in use by the Marine Corps is the automated communications-electronics operating
instructions, produced by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Also called CEOI.
(MCRP 1-10.2)

control point—(Part 2 of a 4-part definition.) A position marked by coordinates (latitude,

longitude), a buoy, boat, aircraft, electronic device, conspicuous terrain feature, or other
identifiable object which is given a name or number and used as an aid to navigation or control
of ships, boats, or aircraft. (DOD Dictionary)

day(s) of ammunition—Unit of measurement of replenishing ammunition expressed as a

specified number of rounds, or items of bulk ammunition as may be appropriate per weapon,
unit, individual kit, set, or using device required for one day of combat. Also called DOA.
(MCRP 1-10.2)

departure point—A navigational check point used by aircraft as a marker for setting course.
(DOD Dictionary)

direct air support center—The principal air control agency of the United States Marine Corps
air command and control system responsible for the direction and control of air operations
directly supporting the ground combat element. Also called DASC. (DOD Dictionary)

electronic attack—Division of electronic warfare involving the use of electromagnetic energy,

directed energy, or antiradiation weapons to attack personnel, facilities, or equipment with the
intent of degrading, neutralizing, or destroying enemy combat capability and is considered a form
of fires. Also called EA. See also electronic warfare. (DOD Dictionary)

electronic warfare—Military action involving the use of electromagnetic and directed energy
to control the electromagnetic spectrum or to attack the enemy. Also called EW. See also
electronic attack. (DOD Dictionary)

escort flight leader—An aviator in command of the escort aircraft and the integration of
objective area fires during an air assault mission. Also called EFL. (As contained in this
glossary, this term and its definition are applicable to this publication only.)

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MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

fire support coordination center—A single location in which are centralized communications
facilities and personnel incident to the coordination of all forms of fire support for Marine forces.
Also called FSCC. (DOD Dictionary)

firing position—In air assault operations, a position occupied by an individual attack helicopter
in order to engage targets. See also battle position. (MCRP 1-10.2)

flight leader—A pilot qualified in a specific type/model/series or an aircraft commander

designated in writing by the aviation unit commander. (As contained in this glossary, this term
and its definition are applicable to this publication only.)

forward air controller—An officer (aviator/pilot) member of the tactical air control party who,
from a forward ground or airborne position, controls aircraft in close air support of ground
troops. Also called FAC. (DOD Dictionary)

forward air controller (airborne)—A specifically trained and qualified aviation officer,
normally an extension of the tactical air control party, who exercises control from the air of
aircraft engaged in close air support of ground troops. Also called FAC(A). (DOD Dictionary)

forward arming and refueling point—A temporary facility, organized, equipped, and deployed
to provide fuel and ammunition necessary for the employment of aviation maneuver units in
combat. Also called FARP. (DOD Dictionary)

forward edge of the battle area—The foremost limits of a series of areas in which ground
combat units are deployed, excluding the areas in which the covering or screening forces are
operating, designated to coordinate fire support, the positioning of forces, or the maneuver of
units. Also called FEBA. (DOD Dictionary)

forward line of own troops—A line that indicates the most forward positions of friendly forces
in any kind of military operation at a specific time. Also called FLOT. (DOD Dictionary)

HAVEQUICK—An electronic counter-countermeasure modification that provides a frequency

hopping capability to selected radios. (As contained in this glossary, this term and its definition
are applicable to this publication only.)

headquarters commandant—Operating under the staff cognizance of the chief of staff, the
officer responsible for local operational, administrative, and logistic support of the headquarters.
(MCRP 1-10.2)

helicopter/tiltrotor support team—A task organization formed and equipped for employment
in a landing zone to facilitate the landing and movement of troops, equipment, and supplies, and
to evacuate selected casualties and enemy prisoners of war. The team is sourced from the Marine
logistics group, specifically from the landing support company of the support battalion. Also
called HST. (Upon promulgation of this publication, this modified term and definition is
approved for use and will be included in the next edition of MCRP 1-10.2)

Glossary-7
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

H-hour—(Part 1 of a 2-part definition.) The specific hour on D-day at which a particular

operation commences. (DOD Dictionary)

holding area—A preplanned or hastily designated area for delay that facilitates coordination
and/or deconfliction of aviation assets. Holding areas are usually designated along the route of
flight in areas that provide cover and concealment from the enemy. Also called HA. (As
contained in this glossary, this term and its definition are applicable to this publication only.)

initial point—(Parts 2, 3, and 4 of a 6-part definition.) 2. A well-defined point, easily

distinguishable visually and/or electronically, used as a starting point for the bomb run to the
target. 3. airborne—A point close to the landing area where serials (troop carrier air formations)
make final alterations in course to pass over individual drop or landing zones. 4. helicopter/
tiltrotor aircraft—An air control point in the vicinity of the landing zone from which individual
flights of helicopters/tiltrotor aircraft are directed to their prescribed landing sites. Also called IP.
(NTRP 1-02)

initial terminal guidance—A mission normally assigned to reconnaissance units to provide the
helicopter coordinator (airborne) with information resulting from prelanding reconnaissance. The
units establish and operate signal devices for guiding the initial helicopter waves from the initial
point to the landing point. Also called ITG. (MCRP 1-10.2)

insertion—1. Placement of troops and equipment into an operational area in air assault
operations. 2. Placement of observation posts, patrols, or raiding parties by helicopter/tiltrotor,
parachute, watercraft, or other means. Stealth is normally desired in the execution of an insertion.
(Upon promulgation of this publication, this modified definition is approved for use and will be
included in the next edition of MCRP 1-10.2.)

intelligence requirements—(See DOD Dictionary, intelligence requirement, for core

definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) Questions about the enemy and the
environment, the answers to which a commander requires to make sound doctrine. Also
called IRs. (MCRP 1-10.2)

L-hour—(Part 2 of a 2-part definition.) In amphibious operations, the time at which the first
helicopter or tiltrotor aircraft of the airborne ship-to-shore movement wave touches down or is
scheduled to touch down in the landing zone (DOD Dictionary)

laager point—A secure location on the ground designated by aviation units utilized for the
rendezvous, marshalling, or positioning of flights of aircraft between missions or awaiting
completion or activation of an assigned mission. Other than communications, no other support
should be required. The site may be isolated and independent or it may be adjacent to an airfield,
a facility, or a forward arming and refueling point. (MCRP 1-10.2)

landing point—A point within a landing site where one helicopter or vertical takeoff and landing
aircraft can land. (NTRP 1-02)

Glossary-8
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

landing site—(See the DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)
In amphibious operations, a continuous segment of coastline over which troops, equipment and
supplies can be landed by surface means. (DOD Dictionary)

landing zone—Any specified zone used for the landing of aircraft. Also called LZ.
(DOD Dictionary)

low-level flight—Flight conducted at constant airspeed and indicated altitude at which detention
or observation of an aircraft or of the points from which and to which it is flying is avoided or
minimized. The route is preselected and conforms generally to a straight line. (NTRP 1-02)

Marine air assault task force—A task-organized unit combining aviation assets, air assault
force units, and supporting units for use in air assault operations. Also called MAATF. See
also air assault; air assault operations. (Upon promulgation of this publication, this term and
definition are approved for use and will be included in the next edition of MCRP 1-10.2.)

Marine air-ground task force—The Marine Corps’ principal organization for all missions
across the range of military operations, composed of forces task-organized under a single
commander capable of responding rapidly to a contingency anywhere in the world. The types
of forces in the Marine air-ground task force (MAGTF) are functionally grouped into four core
elements: a command element, an aviation combat element, a ground combat element, and a
combat service support element. The four core elements are categories of forces, not formal
commands. The basic structure of the MAGTF never varies, though the number, size, and type
of Marine Corps units comprising each of its four elements will always be mission dependent.
The flexibility of the organizational structure allows for one or more subordinate MAGTFs to
be assigned. In a joint or multinational environment, other Service or multinational forces may
be assigned or attached. Also called MAGTF. (MCRP 1-10.2)

mission, enemy, terrain and weather, troops and support available–time available—1. In the
context of information management, the major subject categories into which relevant information
is grouped for military operations. 2. In the context of tactics, the major factors considered during
mission analysis. Also called METT-T. (MCRP 1-10.2)

pickup zone—The zone in which assault support aircraft land to pick up troops and supplies
for movement to the landing zone. Also called PZ. (Upon promulgation of this publication, this
modified definition is approved for use and will be included in the next edition of MCRP 1-10.2)

priority intelligence requirement—(See the DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps
amplification follows.) An intelligence requirement associated with a decision that will critically
affect the overall success of the command’s mission. Also called PIR. (MCRP 1-10.2)

secure area—An area that has not received hostile fire for 72 hours and in which assault
support aircraft will most likely not be subject to fire during the approach, landing, takeoff, and
departure. (Upon promulgation of this publication, this term and definition are approved for use
and will be included in the next edition of MCRP 1-10.2.)

Glossary-9
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

suppressive fire—Fires on or about a weapons system to degrade its performance below the
level needed to fulfill its mission objectives, during the conduct of the fire mission. (Upon
promulgation of this publication, this term and definition are approved for use and will be
included in the next edition of MCRP 1-10.2.)

tactical air command center—The principal US Marine Corps air command and control agency
from which air operations and air defense warning functions are directed. Also called Marine
TACC. (DOD Dictionary)

tactical air control party—(See the DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps
amplification follows.) A subordinate operational component of a tactical air control system
organic to infantry divisions, regiments, and battalions. Tactical air control parties establish and
maintain facilities for liaison and communications between parent units and airspace control
agencies, inform and advise the ground unit commander on the employment of supporting
aircraft, and request and control air support. Also called TACP. (MCRP 1-10.2)

tactical air coordinator (airborne)—(See the DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine
Corps amplification follows.) Within the Marine air command and control system, the senior air
coordinator having authority over all aircraft operating within the assigned area. The tactical air
coordinator (airborne), considered an airborne extension of the direct air support center and fire
support coordination center, contributes to coordination among the tactical air control parties,
airborne forward air controllers, and the fire direction of artillery and naval gunfire. Also called
TAC(A). (MCRP 1-10.2)

wave—A formation of forces, including ships, landing craft, amphibious vehicles or aircraft,
required to beach or land about the same time. (DOD Dictionary)

Glossary-10
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

Section III. Nomenclature

A-22 ............................................cargo bag assembly for external load carrying on certain aircraft
AAQ-22E .......................................................................................forward-looking infrared system
AAQ-24 ....................................................................................directional infrared countermeasure
AAR-47............................................................................................... missile and laser warning set
AAR-47(V)2 ....................................................................................... missile and laser warning set
AAR-57......................................................................................... common missile warning system
AAR-57(V) ................................................................................... common missile warning system
AGR-19.................................................................... laser-guided, high explosive, 2.75-inch rocket
AH-1 ..........................................................................................................attack helicopter (Cobra)
ALE-47 .................................................................................... countermeasures dispensing system
ALQ-156A(V)2 ........................................................................... missile approach warning system
ALQ-162(V)2 ................................................................................... radar countermeasures system
ALQ-212(V) ...................................................................advanced threat infrared countermeasures
ALQ-231 .............................................................electronic support and attack pod (Intrepid Tiger)
APR-39(V).................................................................................................... radar warning receiver
APR-39A(V)2 ............................................................................................... radar warning receiver
APR-39B(V)2 ............................................................................................... radar warning receiver
APR-39C(V)2 ............................................................................................... radar warning receiver
ARC-164 ..............................................aircraft radio communications (receiving and transmitting)
ARC-186 ..............................................aircraft radio communications (receiving and transmitting)
ARC-210 ..............................................aircraft radio communications (receiving and transmitting)
ARC-210D ...........................................aircraft radio communications (receiving and transmitting)
ARC-220 ..............................................aircraft radio communications (receiving and transmitting)
AYK-28(V)2 .............................................................................. airborne data processing computer

CH-47D/F ........... cargo helicopter; Army medium-lift assault support cargo helicopter (Chinook)
CH-53....................................................................................... heavy-lift assault support helicopter
CH-53E ..........................................................heavy-lift assault support helicopter (Super Stallion)

GAU-16 ........................................................................ gun, aircraft unit; .50 caliber machine gun

GAU-17 ...........................................gun, aircraft unit; 7.62 mm six-barrel automatic machine gun
GAU-21 ............................................................. gun, aircraft unit; .50 caliber machine gun system

KC-130............................ multirole, multi-mission tactical tanker/transport aircraft (HERCULES)

KC-130J ........................KC-130J variant with Hercules Airborne Weapons Kit (Harvest HAWK)
KY-58 ...........................................................................airborne/shipborne radio encryption device
KY-100 ........................................................... encryption device in airborne/ground environments

LAU-61 ..................................................... launcher, aircraft unit; 2.75 inch digital rocket launcher
LAU-68 ......................................launcher, aircraft unit; 2.75 inch extended length rocket launcher
LUU-2 .......................................................................................... overt illuminating parachute flare
LUU-19 ...................................................................................... covert illuminating parachute flare

Glossary-11
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

M130 .............................................................................................................chaff or flare dispenser

M240 ................................................................................................7.62 mm medium machine gun
M240D ...........................................................................................................7.62 mm machine gun
M777A2 ............................................................................................. lightweight 155 mm howitzer
MC-12W .........................................................................multi-mission turboprop aircraft (Liberty)
MK23 ................................................... medium tactical vehicle replacement; standard cargo truck
MK25 .......... medium tactical vehicle replacement; standard cargo truck with self-recovery winch
mIRC....................................................................................................Microsoft Internet relay chat
MV-22...................................................medium lift, vertical takeoff and tiltrotor aircraft (Osprey)
MV-22B ................................................medium lift, vertical takeoff and tiltrotor aircraft (Osprey)

PRC-117 F ........................................................................... portable radio communications device

PRC-117 G........................................................................... portable radio communications device

ROVER .........................................................................remotely operated video enhanced receiver

SRU-40 ...................................................................... helicopter aircrew breathing device (HABD)

Stinger .........................................................man-portable air defense system surface-to-air missile

UH-1Y .....................................................................................................utility helicopter (Venom)

UH-60A ..................................................................... utility helicopter, medium-lift (Black Hawk)
UH-60L ...................................................................... utility helicopter, medium-lift (Black Hawk)
UH-60M..................................................................... utility helicopter, medium-lift (Black Hawk)

Glossary-12
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

REFERENCES AND RELATED PUBLICATIONS

Joint

Joint Publications (JPs)

3-02.1 Amphibious Embarkation and Debarkation
3-07 Stability
3-09.3 Close Air Support

Miscellaneous
DOD Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms

Army

Army Training Publication (ATP)

3-04.1 Aviation Tactical Employment

Marine Corps

Marine Corps Doctrinal Publication (MCDP)

1-0 Marine Corps Operations
5 Planning

Marine Corps Warfighting Publications (MCWPs)

3-03 Stability Operations
5-10 Marine Corps Planning Process

Marine Corps Tactical Publication (MCTP)

3-10F Fire Support Coordination in the Ground Combat Element

Marine Corps Reference Publications (MCRPs)

1-10.2 Marine Corps Supplement to the Department of Defense
Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms
2-10B.1 Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield/Battlespace
3-10A.3 Marine Rifle Squad
3-20F.7 Marine Air Traffic Control Detachment Handbook
3-20F.8 Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion Handbook
3-30B.2 MAGTF Communications System
3-40F.4 Multi-Service Helicopter Sling Load: Basic Operations
and Equipment
References-1
MCTP 3-01B Air Assault Operations

3-40F.5 Multi-Service Helicopter Sling Load: Single Point Load

Rigging Procedures
3-40F.6 Multi-Service Helicopter Sling Load: Dual-Point Load
Rigging Procedures

Navy

Air Navy Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (AIR-NTTP)

3-22.3-AH1 AH-1 Combat Aircraft Fundamentals
3-22.3-CH53 CH-53 Combat Aircraft Fundamentals
3-22.3-KC-130 KC-130 Combat Aircraft Fundamentals
3-22.3-MV22 MV-22 Combat Aircraft Fundamentals
3-22.5-AH1 Tactical Pocket Guide AH-1
3-22.5-CH53E Tactical Pocket Guide CH-53E Helicopter
3-22.5-KC-130 Tactical Pocket Guide USMC KC-130
3-22.5-MH53E Tactical Pocket Guide MH-53E Helicopter
3-22.5-SAR-TAC Navy Search and Rescue Tactical Information
Document (SAR TACAID)
3-22.5-UH1 Tactical Pocket Guide UH-1

Navy Tactical Reference Publication (NTRP)

1-02 Navy Supplement to the DOD Dictionary of Military and
Associated Terms

Navy Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (NTTP)

3-22.3-UH1 Combat Aircraft Fundamentals UH-1
3-22.5-ASTACSOP Tactical Pocket Guide USMC Assault Support Tactical SOP
3-22.5-MV22 Tactical Pocket Guide MV-22

References-2
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