II~ON-~: FM 1-'15 ' ~EPARTMENT OF THE ARMY FIELD MANUAL DIVISIONAL AVIATION BATTALION AND GROUP CJO '"' (:F) ·- C:~::> ~-; ;:= =~ · l!rJE A D QU A RT E R S , D E P A R T M E N T 0 F T H E A R M Y .:·:.. · FEBRUARY 1967 ]~ TI\GO 7121A *FM 1-15 FIELD MANUAL HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY } No. 1-15 WASHINGTON, D.C., 21 April1967 DIVISIONAL AVIATION BATTALlON AND GROUP PART ONE. CHAPTER 1. 2. PART Two. CHAPTER 3. 4. Section I. II. III. IV. CHAPTER 5. 6. \ Section I. II. CHAPTER 7. Section I. II. III. IV. v. VI. VII. CHAPTER 8. -Section I. II. III. IV. CHAPTER 9. Section I. II. III. IV. GENERAL INTRODUCTION BATTALION AND GROUP--------------------DIVISIONAL AVIATION BATTALION INTRODUCTION ---------------------------- COMMAND AND STAFF Command ---------~-------------------------- Aviation battalion staff ----------------------- Command and control facilities -----------------Command and staff actions ----------------------RECONNAISSANCE, SELECTION, AND OC- CUPATION OF POSITION (RSOP) __________ ORGANIZATION OF POSITION Command post _____________________________:_ ____ Headquarters company ------------------------- COMBAT SERVICE SUPPORT General ________________________________________ Logistics general ______:_ _______________________ Supply ---------------------------------------Maintenance ----------------------------______ Other logistical matters -----------------------Medical support -------------------------------Personnel actions and administrative records and reports _____________________________________ PLANS AND OPERATIONS Mission assignment ---------------------------Operations ------------------------------------ Air traffic regulation ___________________________ Varied environments ---------------------------COMMUNICATIONS General --------------------------------------- Communications system ------------------------Aviation battali~n communications systems _______ Communications security _______________________ Paragraph 1-1,1-2 2-1-2-3 3-1-3-4 4-1-4-6 4-7-4-14 4-15-4-18 4-19-4-21 5-1-5-4 6-1-6-4 6-5,6-6 7-1,7-2 7-3,7-4 7-5,7-6 7-7-7-11 7-12-7-15 7-16-7-18 7-19-7-22 8-1-8-4 8-5-8-10 8-1:!.-8-13 8-14-8-18 9-1,9-2 9-3,9-4 9-5-9-9 9-10-9-13 Page 3 5 7 11 . 12 "18 20 23 27 28 31 31 31 33 35 35 36 37 41 43 44 51 51 52 57 *This manual supersedes FM 1-15, 26 July 1965. -----...__ \ TAGO 7121A FM 1-15 Paragraph Page CHAPTE~ 10. ADMINISTRATIVE MOVEMENTS Section I. General ---------------------------------------10-1, 10-2 59 II. Planning and preparing for movements ----------10-3-10-10 59 III. Motor movement -------------------------------10-11-10-16 61 IV. Rail, air, and water movement ------------------10-17-10-19 62 CHAPTER 11. TRAINING -----------------------------------11-1-11-8 65 PART THREE. AVIATION GROUP, AIRMOBILE DIVISION CHAPTER 12. INTRODUCTION -----------------------------12-1-12-6 69 13. COMMAND AND STAFF----------------------13-1-13-3 73 14. OPERATIONS AND AIRSPACE UTILIZATION Section I. Operations ------------------------------------14-1-14-6 75 II. Airspace utilization ----------------------------14-7-14-9 77 CHAPTER 15. HEADQUARTERS AND HEADQUARTERS COMPANY ---------------------------------15-1-15-8 79 16. GENERAL SUPPORT AVIATION COMPANY__ 16-1-16-6 85 17. ASSAULT HELICOPTER BATTALION Section I. Introduction -----------------------------------17-1, 17-2 89 II. Headquarters and headquarters company _________ 17-3-17-9 91 III. Aerial weapons company-----------------------17-10-17-14 93 IV. Assault helicopter company ---------------------17-15-17-18 95 tGHAPTER 18. ASSAULT SUPPORT HELICOPTER BATTALION Section I. Introduction -----------------------------------18-1-18-3 97 11. Headquarters and headquarters company _________ 18-4,18-5 98 III. Assault support helicopter company ______________ 18-6-18-9 99 APPENDIX A. REFERENCES ------------~------------------------------103 B. SUGGESTED OUTLINE FOR AN SOP ----------------------107 C. AVIATION SAFETY ---------------------------------------111 D. STANAG 3531-INVESTIGATION OF AIR-CRAFT/MISSILE ACCIDENTS/INCIDENTS______________ 113 E. EMPLOYMENT OF NON-AIR DEFENSE WEAPONS AGAINST AIRCRAFT ------------------------119 F. REDEYE DEFENSE CONSIDERATIONS __________________ 121 G. SAMPLE AIRMOBILE TASK FORCE COM-MANDER'S CHECKLIST --------------------___________ 125 INDEX 129 AGO 7121A FM 1-15 PART ONE GENERAL CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION 1-1. Purpose and Scope a. This manual provides doctrine and guidance for commanders, staff officers, and other personnel concerned with the operation of the divisional Army aviation battalion and group. It discusses the mission, organization, capabilities, limitations, and internal operations of these units and their relationship to supported units. (FM 55-46 contains details on Army aviation transport services and units.) b. The manual provides guidance for (1) Nuclear and nonnuclear warfare. (2) Employment of and protection from chemical, biological, and radiological agents. (3) Internal defense and development operations. 1-2. Recommendations To Improve Clarity or Accuracy Users of this manual are encouraged to submit recommendations to improve its clarity or accuracy. Comments should be keyed to the specific page, paragraph, and line of the text in which the change is recommended. Reasons should be provided for each comment to insure understanding and complete evaluation. Comments should be forwarded directly to the Commanding Officer, United States Army Combat Developments Command Aviation Agency, Fort Rucker, Ala. 36360. Originators of proposed changes which would constitute a significant modification of approved Army doctrine may send an information copy, through command channels, to the Commanding General, USACDC, to facilitate review and followup. AGO 7121A FM 1-15 ~- CHAPTER 2 BATTALION AND GROUP 2-1. General a. This manual gives doctrinal coverage to the aviation battalion and group organically assigned to active divisions of the United States Army. It i~:~ divided into three parts. Part One provides introduCtory material. -The scope of Part Two and Part Three is found in paragraphs 2-2 and 2-3. b. FM 1-105 covers the techniques and procedures used by the Army aviator and FM 1110 discusses the employment of the armed helicopter. FM 1-100 provides general guidance and doctrine for U.S. Army aviation utilization. 2-2. Divisional Aviation Battalion Part Two of this manual is based on the aviation battalion, airborne division (TOE 155G), and the aviation battalion, infantry division (TOE 1-75G). Since these battalions are identical in mission and practically identical in organization, they are treated as having a single identity except where certain differences are pointed out as they arise. The doctrinal principles applying to these organizations are generally applicable to all Army aviation battalions. 2-3. Aviation Group, Airmobile Division Part Three contains a discussion of the mission, composition, and functions of the aviation group organic to the airmobile division (TOE 1-100T). Major subordinate elements of the aviation group covered in the manual include the a. Headquarters and headquarters company (TOE 1-101T). b. General support aviation company (TOE 1-102T). c. Assault helicopter battalion (TOE 1155T). d. Assault support helicopter battalion (TOE 1-165T). AGO 7121A FM 1-15 PART TWO DIVISIONAL AVIATION BATTALION CHAPTER 3 INTRODUCTION 3-3, and 3-4 show the organization of the bat 3-1. Mission talion's major subordinate units. The mission of the divisional aviation battalion (TOE 1-55G and TOE 1-75G) is to pro 3-3. Capabilities and Limitations vide aviation support for the division head quarters, division support command, and other a. Capabilities. The aviation battalion is ca divisional units without organic aircraft. In pable of operating throughout the spectrum of addition, the battalion provides-warfare. It provides a means of supplementing the land combat functions of intelligence; moa. General support and reinforcement to bility; firepower; command, control, and comunits possessing organic aircraft. munications; and service support. The TOE b. An aviation special staff section for the of each unit lists the specific capabilities of that division. unit. b. Limitations. The aviation battalion has 3-2. Composition limited ability to defend itself while performThe composition of the divisional aviation ing operations. It is further limited by its battalion is shown in figure 3-1. Figures 3-2, large requirement for aviation fuel, its sensi- AVN BN I I HQ &HQ J_ A I RMO BI L E AVN GS co co CO (LT) -In the airborne division, this company is named the light airmobile company. Figure 3-1. Divisional aviation battalion. AGO 7121A FM 1-15 HQ &HQ co I I BN HQ HQ CO I I I CO HQ BN MAINT 1 BN COMM PFDR SECSEC SEC BN HQ SEC MED SEC l Includes airfield control personnel. In the airborne division, an airfield terminal control section is authorized. Figure 3-2. Headquarters and headquarters company, aviation battalion. tivity to adverse weather conditions, and its those forces in offensive actions. In defense, vulnerability to overpressures caused by nuretrograde, or denial operations, an aviation clear explosion. When operating in semistatic battalion can help impede the progress of positions as part of a larger base camp complex enemy ground forces by providing timely intelin internal defense/development operational ligence, by delivering troops and supplies to environments, the aviation battalion will resustain positions held by friendly elements, and quire additional support to include security by transporting forces to block critical avenues forces, POL storage personnel, engineers, and of approach. The efficient employment of an other installation support personnel. aviation battalion is accomplished when its capabilities are used with those of the sup3-4. Employment ported organization to provide a balance among the land combat functions (para 3-3). a. General. The aviation battalion is designed to provide aviation support to Army b. Command Relationship. The command reforces in the combat zone. It has the ability to lationship established between the ground unit overcome a variety of obstacles to the moveand the supporting aviation unit depends upon ment of ground combat elements and conthe mission or degree of control directed by the tributes to the mobility and maneuverability of higher headquarters. The degree of control de c c 8 c~ AGO 7121A FM 1-15 • l AIRMOBILE CO (LT) r AIRLIFT CO HQ SVC PLAT PLAT I l AIRLIFT PLAT HQ SEC I I I ACFT MAINT COMM MAINT AFLD SVCPLAT HQ SEC SEC SEC ·lin the airborne division, this company is named the light airmobile company. Figure 3-3. Airmobile company (light), aviation battalion. AVN GEN SPT CO I I I GEN SPT CO HQ SVC PLAT PLAT I I I I I I I UTIL SPT TAC SPT ACFT MAINT COMM MAINT AFLD SVC PLAT HQ PLAT HQ SEC SEC SEC SEC SEC Figure 3-4. Aviation general support company, aviation battalion. AGO 7121A FM 1-15 pends on the capability of the ground unit to plan, coordinate, control, and logistically support the aviation unit. Normally, an aviation battalion or an element thereof is controlled by its parent unit and is placed in support of the ground unit, with operational control of both units retained by the headquarters which directs and supports the operation. c. Basic Factors. Factors on which employment of the aviation battalion is based include (1) Mission of the ground combat force. (2) Plan of maneuver of the ground combat force and its mobility requirements. (3) Number and type of aviation units available. ( 4) Capabilities of aviation units. (5) Availability of airfield and bivouac areas. (6) Availability and suitability of aviation support from other sources, to include the U.S. Air Force and Navy. (7) Availability and expected expenditure of aviation POL and armament. (8) Enemy intelligence, particularly the air defense and air offense capability. (9) Operational agreements relating to other allied forces and host country forces in an internal defense/development operational environment. (10) Weather and terrain. d. Operational Status. The battalion normally is not employed as a unit. Elements of the battalion are attached to, placed under the operational control of, or placed in support of other units of the division. The headquarters and headquarters company is normally located with the aviation general support company at the division instrumented airfield. The light airmobile company is usually employed as a unit, but can be tailored into smaller elements to fit the situation. This company operates from its own dispersal area and should be located so that it can obtain air traffic regulation and terminal air support from the main instrumented airfield. When the requirement for aviation support within the division exceeds the capability of the divisional aviation battalion, additional aviation support can be provided from nondivisional aviation resources of higher headquarters. Aviation units attached to the division may be further attached to the division aviation battalion when their mission necessitates close control by that echelon. c 10 AGO 7121A \ / FM 1-15 CHAPTER 4 COMMAND AND STAFF Section I. 4-1. General The aviation battalion commander exercises his authority and promotes continuity throughout the battalion by prescribing policies, assigning missions, and designating tasks for units under his control. Effective operation of , this chain requires that sufficient authority be delegated to enable subordinates to accomplish tasks for which they are responsible. The commander conducts personal visits and inspections to insure that his standards are understood and satisfactorily maintained. 4-2. Commander's Responsibilities as Aviation Staff Officer The commander of the divisional aviation battalion is assigned the additional duty of division aviation officer. In this capacity, he is responsible for informing and advising the division commander and staff on the technical aspects of aviation and the employment of elements of the battalion. In addition he a. Maintains liaison with aviation representatives and staff officers of higher and lower headquarters and with adjacent units. b. Prepares and supervises the aviation portion of the division training program and provides technical supervision of aviation training for other elements of the division. c. Supervises the employment of aviation elements assigned or attached to the division for tactical operations. He exercises operational control over these units except when operational control is specifically delegated elsewhere by the division commander. d. Assists the staff in the preparation of aviation portions of division estimates, plans, orders, and reports. COMMAND e. Prepares the aviation portion of the air movement plan and the fire support plan. f. Coordinates the use of airspace with the air defense officer. 4-3. Assistant Aviation Officer An assistant aviation officer is authorized in each divisional aviation battalion. He is located at the division tactical operations center (DTOC) and is the principal representative of the division aviation officer on the division special staff. Normally, he is charged with the responsibility of supervising the Army aviation element (AAE) of the DTOC for the division aviation officer (battalion commander) and, as directed, performs those duties of the division aviation officer noted in paragraph 4-2. He keeps abreast of the division tactical disposition and future plans, and advises the division aviation officer on these matters. Although his specific duties vary, depending on the desires of the division aviation officer, he normally pre pares pertinent annexes to division operations orders, administrative orders, estimates, plans, and reports. 4-4. Command Staff Relationships The staff is responsible to the commander for acquiring information; making recommendations; preparing estimates, detailed plans, and orders implementing command decisions; and coordinating plans and operations. The commander maintains close relationship with his staff officers and keeps them fully informed. He establishes definite functional responsibilities for his staff, delegates authority commensurate with responsibilities, and charges the executive officer with responsibility for directing and coordinating the staff. AGO 7121A FM 1-15 4-5. Command Relationship With Subordinate Unit Commanders The battalion commander's relationship with the commanders of organic and attached units is direct and personal. He encourages them to work with his staff and to deal directly with him when appropriate. He makes formal and informal visits to subordinate units, including attached units, to gain direct knowledge of the unit situation and the status of the troops operating with the battalion. The commander insures that adequate communications and liaison are maintained to keep commanders of supporting and supported units informed of the current situation and the support needed or available. The supporting unit is required to establish communications with the supported unit. If a conflict arises, the supporting unit · initiates compliance, concurrently referring the matter to its parent headquarters. The commander of the supporting unit advises the commander of the supported unit of his unit's capabilities and limitations and recommends the method of employing his unit. Section II. AVIATION 4-7. General a. The battalion staff consists of the execu tive officer, battalion staff officers, special staff officers, and the sergeant major. b. Staff officers assist the battalion com mander in the exercise of command. They transmit the commander's orders to subordinate units and relieve him of time-consuming de tails. Through coordination with the Army aviation element of the tactical operation cen ter, the staff maintains information pertaining to (1) Location, current and projected availability, and current and projected use of organic, assigned, attached, and supporting units. (2) Status of logistics and administration. Based upon this information, the staff makes recommendations to the commander. When a decision is made, staff members assist in the prepara 4-6. Command During Operations a. The aviation battalion commander formulates plans, issues, orders, and supervises the operations of all units organic to the battalion or under his operational control. He takes action to obtain additional personnel, equipment, or other support required to accomplish the mission. He coordinates the activities of his unit with those of adjacent, higher, and lower units. b·. The commander goes where he can best direct, control, and influence the operation. He may be with the command group element, at his command post (CP), in an aerial CP, or anywhere in the area of operations where his presence is required. Before departing the CP, he informs his staff on plans to be made or actions to be taken if the situation changes. When he is away, he insures that he can communicate with the CP and subordinate commanders. While away from the CP, if he issues orders or obtains pertinent information on the situation, he informs his staff without delay. c-· BATTALION STAFF tion of orders and supervise their implementation. (3) Capabilities, strength, location, and composition of enemy forces. c. The successful functioning of the staff depends upon close coordination among its members and among the staff members and units of the command. This coordination includes teamwork with staffs of higher headquarters and supporting units. Conferences and personal contact promote coordination and cooperation. Staff officers must know the duties and responsibilities of other members of the staff so that they may assume such duties in case of emergency. The staff should be organized to operate on a 24-hour basis. d. A staff officer must remember that he is not the commander of the battalion subordinate units; he acts only in the name of the commander for whom he works. Staff officers visit subordinate units to gain current knowledge of AGO 7121A • FM 1-15 unit situations and administrative conditions. officer is charged with the responsibility for Commanders or their representatives are conexecution of staff tasks, the efficient and prompt response of the staff, and the coordinated efforttacted personally as the first and last steps of of staff members. He transmits the com each visit. Conditions which are contrary to policies are called to the attention of unit commander's decisions to the staff sections and to manders. Details not requiring a command desubordinate units, when applicable, in the name cision may be settled with the unit commander of the commander. He keeps abreast of the situat the time of the visit. Concise reports of facts ation and future plans, and acts for the comare provided the battalion commander following mander in his absence. He is prepared to assuch staff visits. sume command of the battalion at any time. Normally, the executive officer is located at the e. FM 101-5 contains details of staff officer CP and is responsible for its operation. He andfunctions. the commander should not be absent from the CP at the same time. In the displacement of4-8. Relationships of Battalion Staff Officers the CP, the executive officer usually closes theto Special Staff Officers and old CP and moves with the last echelon of theSubordinate Commanders headquarters. a. The battalion staff officers are the executive officer, S1, S2, S3, and S4. Battalion staff 4-10. Adjutant (S 1) officers insure that the special staff is informed The adjutant (S1) performs the functions of on plans, policies, and decisions of the comthe G 1 of the general staff type organization, mander. They obtain information, estimates, the functions of the secretary of the general and recommendations from the special staff staff, the functions of the commander's personal and subordinate commanders and use this data staff, and the personnel functions of special in preparing reports, estimates, recommendastaff officers who are not assigned in the battions, and plans for the commander. All staff talion staff such as the adjutant general, inofficers keep each other informed on matters of spector general, judge advocate, provost marmutual interest. shal, and special services officer (FM 101-5). b. A special staff officer makes recommendaSpecifically, the adjutant (S1)tions directly to the commander. The special a. Consolidates and forwards information on staff officer should inform the appropriate staff the assignment, promotion, transfer, retireofficers of the information exchanged when it ment, and discharge of personnel. affects their field of interest. b. Processes awards of decorations, citations, c. Subordinate commanders are afforded dicommendations and other honors. rect contact with the commander. When time c. Processes applications for leave. permits, the commander will call upon leaders d. Maintains records and current informationof organic and attached units for estimates on military justice including Article 15 punishand recommendations pertaining to their units. ments, processes and reviews court-martialThe commander uses this information together (CM) charges and records of trial by inferiorwith data from his staff as the basis for esticourts-martial for administrative correctness,mates and decisions. and recommends to the commander measures to improve discipline. 4-9. Executive Officer e. Maintains current information on strengthThe executive officer is the principal assistant to include loss estimates and casualty records. and advisor to the battalion commander. AlHe makes arrangements for receiving, processthough his specific duties vary depending on ing, assigning, and quartering replacements. the desires of the commander, he normally per forms duties similar to those of the chief of f. Sets up internal arrangement of the CP in ----.........,' staff at the general staff level. The executive coordination with the battalion signal officer. AGO 7121A 13 FM 1-15 g. Consolidates data submitted for inclusion in the unit SOP and maintains that portion of the SOP which governs unit and CP operating procedures. h. Is responsible for the collection, processing, and evacuation of prisoners of war. i. Is responsible for postal and message center services. j. Publishes and authenticates orders and instructions of the commander, except combat orders. k. Supervises athletics, entertainment, and other morale-building activities when no other officer is designated for such duties. l. Is responsible for all administrative matters not assigned to another staff officer. m. Coordinates the evacuation of casualties including ·patients. n. Acts as administrator of civilian services, providing liaison with civilian employers and the local government in the affairs of the camp and its personnel in internal defense and development operations. 4-11. Intelligence Officer (52) The intelligence officer (S2) performs the functions of G2 of the general staff type organization (FM 101-5). He is primarily responsible for advising the commander, staff, subordinate units, and other interested agencies on the terrain, weather, and the enemy situation and capabilities. Specifically, the S2 a. Obtains and disseminates information on the terrain and weather. b. Supervises and trains battalion intelligence personnel, and exercises control over them during operations. c. Plans and supervises intelligence and coun terintelligence training for all personnel of the battalion. d. Prepares the battalion intelligence plan and informs the G2 of its intelligence requirements. e. Monitors flight crew briefings and debriefings. f. Records pertinent enemy information and physical hazards to flight on the situation map. g. Receives and forwards to higher headquarters information collected by elements of the battalion. h. Disseminates intelligence received from higher headquarters to the commander, staff, and subordinate elements. i. Determines requirements for and supervises distribution of maps, airphotos, image interpretation reports, and photomaps. j. Monitors aerial observation, reconnaissance, and surveillance missions between the division G2 and the aviation general support company of the aviation battalion. k. Works with host country military and civilian staffs and intelligence gathering agencies in internal defense and development operations. c 4-12. Operations and Training Officer (53) The operations and training officer (S3) performs the functions of the G3 on the general staff type organization (FM 101-5). He is primarily responsible for advising the commander on organizations, training, and opera c tions. Specifically, the S3 a. Prepares recommended changes to tables of organization and equipment and recommends attachment or support of units which will facilitate the accomplishment of the mission. b. Assigns priorities for unit personnel requirements (coordinating with the S1). c. Prepares and has staff supervisory responsibility for the execution of training directives, programs, orders, field exercises, and maneuvers based on plans approved by the commander. d. Selects training areas and ranges, and allocates training aids and equipment. e. Prepares the program of instruction and organizes and supervises schools for the battalion to include individual and unit flight training programs. f. Makes training inspections, and prepares and supervises training tests based on Army training tests (ATT). (- AGO 7121A \ FM 1-15 g. Informs his commander and other staff v. Recommends the general location of the officers on the situation and makes recommenCP (in coordination with the signal officer). dations on the employment of the battalion. 4-13. Logistics Officer (54) h. Supervises the posting of friendly unit dispositions on the situation map. The logistics officer (S4) has staff responsi bility for planning, coordinating, and superi. Recommends the general location of orvising the operation of the logistical facilitiesganic and attached units and their employment. of the battalion. He insures that organic and j. Coordinates with the signal officer in the nonorganic administrative service support elepreparation of the signal communications plan. ments adequately support the plans of the com k. Plans tactical movements, including units mand and that they function according to the involved, formation, and type of transportaorders of higher commanders. The duties of the tion required (coordinating with S4). He preS4 are similar to those prescribed for the G4 pares the movement order and march tables of the general staff type organization (FM after the plan of movement is approved. 101-5). Specifically, the S4 l. Prepares the battalion operation order for a. Coordinates with higher headquarters the commander's approval. He coordinates with logistics officers, appropriate support command, the S1, S2 and S4 for their input to the order. or supporting supply unit on supplies for the If the operation order is given verbally by the battalion. He also determines the supply recommander, the S3 writes a complete order, quirements of organic and attached units. often in pencil form, and files it. b. Coordinates priorities of issue as estab m. Prepares plans for future and continlished by higher headquarters and the S3. gency operations. c. Supervises procurement and distribution of n. Recommends the S1 and S4 priorities for supplies. allocation of administrative and logistic supd. Keeps subordinate units informed of theport to subordinate units. location of the logistical installation. o. Prepares plans to implement civil affairs e. Coordinates with the maintenance batfunctions delegated to the battalion (FM 41-talion commander and the commander of the10). supporting transportation aircraft direct sup p. Prepares and maintains necessary records port company on maintenance, repair parts and reports. supply, evacuation, and technical assistance requirements. q. Coordinates with the S4 to determine the status of the materiel readiness program. f. Coordinates the evacuation of damaged equipment and weapons, salvage, and captured r. Coordinates operations and plans with enemy materiel. allied and host country military staffs and their advisors for internal defense and development g. Coordinates additional transportation services required for the battalion. operations. s. Prepares security and defense plans for h. Coordinates with the S3 to determine the the installation during internal defense and status of the materiel readiness program. development operations in coordination with i. Prepares the battalion logistical plan and the S2. the logistical portion of operation orders. t. Prepares the battalion field SOP in coorj. Supervises the upkeep of the camp or indination with other staff officers. stallation and its facilities, and operates much u. Recommends locations and dissemination as a post engineer when the battalion is de media (to include loudspeakers or leaflets) for ployed in a semistatic position, as in an internal defense/development operational environment. psychological operations. AGO 7121A 15 FM 1-15 k. Coordinates chemical, biological, and radiological decontamination of equipment, supplies, and facilities. l. Requests and procures maps. 4-14. Special Staff a. General. Special staff officers normally have knowledge and/or training in special areas included in, but more specialized than, the broad fields of interest of the battalion staff officers and largely relating to technical, administrative, and branch matters. Special staff officer activities may be directly supervised by the battalion executive officer or by the staff officer having primary interest in the field of the special staff officer's activities. This decision is left to the commander whose primary concern is to gain a working relationship among the staff that insures continuity of effort without creating unnecessary links in the chain of communications. b. Surgeon. The surgeon is a medical officer qualified as an aviation medical officer or flight surgeon; he is assigned to the battalion headquarters under the staff supervision of the Sl. He has direct access to the commander ; however, he works closely with members of the battalion staff in matters directly affecting the health of the command ; medical care of troops ; and the proper employment of medical personnel, equipment, and supplies. In an internal defense situation, the surgeon can initiate a military civic action program by providing medical services, dispensary facilities, advice to local doctors, and possibly an airmobile visiting dispensary. Within the battalion, the surgeon exercises operational control over the medical section and, as the division aviation medical officer, performs these duties for all organic division and attached aviation units. Specifically, the aviation battalion surgeon (1) Maintains the aviation medical program and insures that all rated aviation personnel in the battalion are physically qualified for flight missions. (2) Prepares a battalion medical plan based upon higher headquarters medical plan and the situation. (3) Recommends a site for location of the battalion aid station, supervises its c operations, and supervises the care and treatment of patients. ( 4) Develops policies and procedures concerning medical functions to include the supervision of training troops in sanitation and first aid. ( 5) Requisitions medical supplies and equipment from the division medical battalion or nearest medical unit with this support capability. (6) Examines foodstuffs and water to determine suitability for consumption after exposure to possible contamination by chemical, biological, or radiological agents. (7) Supervises the evacuation of patients to the battalion aid station. (8) Prescribes treatment procedures and insures that facilities are available for treatment of patients as a result of chemical and biological operations or nuclear warfare. (9) Insures that emergency medical equipment and supplies are provided to battalion personnel as required. (10) Maintains a preventive medicine program to preserve maximum individual and unit efficiency. (11) Arranges evacuation for those patients requiring treatment beyond the capability of the battalion aid station to the next level of medical treatment. (12) Serves as a member of aircraft accident investigation and flight evaluation boards. (13) Formulates, supervises, and coordinates all medical aspects of the aviation safety program with appropriate commanders and staff officers. c. Signal Officer. The signal officer supervises the communication section and, as a special staff officer, coordinates and exercises technical supervision over the training and activities of communications personnel throughout the battalion. He prepares, plans, and makes recommendations for the employment of signal com c AGO 7121A FM 1-15 supporting maintenance and supply units andmunications to include ground and aircraft with the operating units of the aviation batcommunications systems. Specifically, the sigtalion to insure an effective direct support main nal officer tenance schedule. He coordinates his activities(1) Supervises the installation of radio, with the S4 and keeps him advised on the mainwire, and terminal flight and control tenance status within the battalion. Specififacilities at the battalion instrumented cally, the maintenance officerairfield. (1) Has staff supervision for inspection(2) Coordinates with appropriate flight and administers technical guidance foroperations center (FOC) and flight all organizational maintenance percoordinating centers (FCC) on pertiformed within the battalion. nent communications matters. (2) Provides staff supervision of the per(3) Coordinates with the S3 for selection formance of airfield services at theof the general location and with the aviation battalion airfield. Sl for internal arrangement of the battalion CP. (3) Supervises the operations of the bat talion motor maintenance technician. (4) Coordinates with the S2 on communications security measures. ( 4) Furnishes staff supervision for the re (5) Obtains current sjgnal operation inceipt, issue, stockage, storage, and turn-in of repair parts and equipment. structions (SOl) and standing signal instructions (SSI) from higher head(5) Monitors and has staff supervision for quarters. He prepares and distributes the preparation of maintenance rec extracts of SOl and SSI. ords, schedules, and reports of subor (6) Prepares .the communications portion dinate units. of the battaliori'SOP. e. Aviation Safety Officer. The aviation safety (7) Submits recommendations for paraofficer advises the battalion commander, staff, graph 5 of the operation order and and subordinate units on safety aspects related for signal annexes when required. to their individual functions with particular (8) In coordination with the S4, plans and emphasis on aviation safety. He receives and supervises matters pertaining to sigdisseminates safety directives or programs nal supply plans and supervises matfrom higher headquarters, and implements and ters pertaining to signal supply and .supervises the battalion safety program in accordance with Army directives. He may be maintenance. designated as division aviation safety officer, (9) Supervises the installation, operation, under the staff supervision of the division aviaand maintenance of the signal equiption officer, for all organic division and attachedment issued to the communications aviation units. (The GI has staff responsibilitysection and the battalion headquarters. for all division safety.) Specifically, the avia(10) Procures, stores, and distributes codes, tion safety officer ciphers, and cryptographic material. (1) Reviews, monitors, and maintains rec d. Maintenance Officer. The maintenance ords and statistics of accident or inofficer supervises the maintenance section and, cident reports to detect trends and recas a special staff officer, advises the battalion ommend corrective measures.commander on capabilities of operating units' (2) Prepares and monitors the battalionorganizational maintenance sections to meet safety program for accident prevencurrent and projected workloads. He advises tion. the staff and subordinate commanders within the command on the technical aspects of air(3) Prepares training programs for accicraft, vehicle, and equipment operations and dent investigation boards and teams maintenance. He maintains liaison with the (in coordination with S3) and advises AGO 7121A 17 FM 1-15 board members during an investigaon CBR operations. The CBR officer, to include tion. the NCO as appropriate-( ( 4) Advises staff members on inclusion of (1) Assists the battalion S2 in the collecsafety information in battalion direction, processing, and dissemination of tives, policies, programs, and training. CBR intelligence information to in clude radiological survey party duties (5) Inspects aviation battalion headquar(FM 3-12) ; use of effective wind mes ters and subordinate units to detersages, fallout prediction messages, and mine the status of accident prevention nuclear, biological, and chemical within the battalion. re ports as appropriate; enemy CBR ma (6) Conducts surveys of unit airfields and teriel; and CBR contamination data. facilities to insure that they meet the (2) Assists the battalion S3 on chemical,designated operational and safety rebiological, and nuclear defense plansquirements. and operations to include preparation (7) Reviews aviator flight records and unit of the CBR and nuclear defense an training programs to insure that nexes to the battalion SOP, the traintraining is directed to known deficien ing of unit CBR teams, determination cies. of radiological time or entry and time (8) Insures adequate distribution of flight of stay calculations, computation of safety literature to organic division the battalion radiation dose, prepara and attached aviation units. tion of the CBR portion of the master training schedule, the inspection of all (9) Informs the commander of unsafe con CBR training, and the selection of inditions that exist within the organizadividuals for CBR school training. tion and recommends corrective ac tions. g. Liaison Officer. The liaison officer is the commander's personal representative to the(10) Prepares the battalion preaccident unit with which liaison is established. He mustplan in coordination with other unit be thoroughly familiar with the situation and • members and outside agencies. plans of his own unit and with the policies of f. CBR Officer. The battalion commander will his commander, and make such information appoint an officer to act as the CBR officer for available to the commander and staff of the the battalion. This officer will be school trained visited unit. He familiarizes himself with the as prescribed in appropriate training directives situation and plans of the unit to which he is (AR 220-58). The CBR officer, assisted by the sent and secures and transmits desired informachemical NCO, is the advisor to the battalion tion to his own unit. Section Ill. COMMAND AND CONTROL FACILITIES 4-1 5. Command Post and displacement of the CP are prescribed in the unit SOP. a. The direction and control of battalion op erations is exercised primarily through the batb. The activity of the CP is centered on the talion CP. The CP maintains communications S2/S3 staff. The executive officer normallywith higher, adjacent, supporting, supported, supervises CP operations and insures that suffiand lower units (including indigenous forces cient officer and enlisted assistants who are as appropriate). Personnel normally at the CP familiar with the situation and the operationsinclude the battalion commander, battalion intelligence center are on duty at all times. staff, necessary special staff officers, liaison perFrequently, the commander and the S3 will be sormel, and supporting personnel. Operation away from the CP to maintain a more personal 18 AGO 7121A "' FM 1-15 contact with . subordinate aviation units or 4-17. Alternate Command Posts higher headquarters. Other staff officers may Battalions prepare plans and train personnelalso be away to properly supervise their areas to continue command and control in the event of interest. At such times, personnel of the CP the battalion CP is rendered inoperative. Norwill continue to maintain a complete status of mally, a CP of one of the companies will be usedoperations and will inform the commander and as an alternate battalion CP, or the facilities staff of information received and transmitted. of the command group may be used temporarily. c. Although the CP is the central control Such plans are included in the SOP. point for the battalion, not all plans and deci sions are made there. The commander assures 4-18. Headquarters Management that sufficient communications means are avail The Sl designates the specific areas to beable to permit operation on the move. The occupied by the commander and by each staffcommand group (para 4-16) maintains comsection and activity. He is assisted by the head munications and control while the main part quarters company commander and the signalof the CP moves. officer. Factors to be considered in the head d. The battalion commander orders the CP quarters organization and operation include displaced whenever necessary to insure security the following:or continuous responsive aviation support to a. To reduce internal traffic, the message centhe user. ter should be located near the entrance to the CP. 4-16. Command Group b. The motor pool and its entrances and exitsa. A command group is a subdivision of the should be in a well camouflaged and readilyforward echelon containing certain key staff officers and personnel who usually accompany accessible location. A dismount point is established near the vehicular entrance to the CP. the commander. This group enables the commander to operate away from his CP in order c. Radio sets should be located to give the to maintain a personal knowledge of the situabest transmission and reception. Remote contion, exercise personal leadership, and closely trol equipment may be used to allow the CP to control the operation. The command group has be located on lower ground than that on whicli no fixed organization, but consists of the comcommunications antennas are installed. mander and selected personnel and equipment d. The switchboard should be located in anfor a given situation. It may include the S3, area near incoming wire circuits and away fromsignal officer, maintenance officer, liaison offinoise and interference. cer, and communications personnel and necessary ground vehicles, aircraft, and command e. Incoming messages normally are taken to radio facilities. Sufficient command radio fathe message center to be signed for, and are cilities are required to enable the command then delivered to the unit distribution center group to contact the CP, supported units, and (a function of the Sl) where they are routed subordinate units of the battalion as necessary. to the appropriate staff sections. Staff sections b. There is no prescribed requirement for usact on messages and, when necessary, inform ing the command group. This depends upon the commander of their contents without delay. the commander's personality and the operaf. Outgoing messages to be transmitted via tional requirement. The means of transportasignal communications means are sent to the tion varies with the situation. If aircraft are message center in duplicate. available (particularly during large scale airg. The Sl section is the office of permanent mobile operations), the commander may op erate from an aerial CP. H,e may divide the record for the unit. All incoming or outgoing command and control facilities between operamessages or correspondence are recorded and tion on the ground and in the air. filed there, if required. \, 19 I AGO 7121A FM 1-15 Section IV. COMMAND AND STAFF ACTIONS c 4-19. General from all staff officers. The S2 furnishes the S3 In some instances, particularly fast-moving the results of his analysis of the weather, ter airmobile operations, the sequence of command rain, enemy situation, and enemy capabilities. and staff actions as discussed in paragraph 4-20 The Sl and S4 furnish the S3 details pertain ing to their respective fields. may be expedited. Trained and experienced commander and staff officers continually keep c. As staff officers prepare their estimates, abreast of the situation and constantly make or the commander supplements liaison by visiting revise estimates. Decisions are often based on with and advising the supported unit on aviarapid estimates and, for the most part, orders tion matters. Based on information obtainedare oral and fragmentary. Warning orders are from the supported commander, the aviationissued to subordinate commanders as early as battalion commander may change or modify his possible to permit initial preparation. Suborinitial planning guidance. Each of the staff of dinate commanders are not necessarily called ficers must then revise his initial planningto the CP to receive orders. They may be issued estimates accordingly. orders at any place or over the radio by the· commander or designated staff officer in the d. A meeting is then held during which the name of the commander. Command and staff S3 presents possible courses of action to other action sequence will vary according to the time staff officers. Each staff officer completes his available, the situation, the person.ality of the estimate using these courses of action to deter commander, and professional abilities of the mine what limitations exist and which course commander and his staff. is favored from his respective viewpoint. e. Each staff officer arrives at recommenda 4-20. Command and Staff Action Sequence tions to be made to the commander. Again a a. Upon receipt of a mission from higher meeting is conducted during which the S3 pre headquarters (or the senior· advisor to indigsents one or more courses of action and recom enous forces) , the commander analyzes the mends priority. Each of the other staff officers mission to determine the specified and implied comments in turn on significant aspects within tasks which must be performed in order to achis respective field and recommends the best complish the mission. The commander estabcourse of action from his standpoint. The com lishes liaison with the supported unit either mander may question his staff to ascertain any immediately, using previously prepared plans, additional information he requires to complete or after he has met with his staff and formuhis estimate. lated tentative plans. Then, based on estimates and recommendations of the staff, his knowlf. The commander completes his estimate and announces his decision. This decision is basededge of the situation, guidance provided by the on the supported unit commander's decisionhigher commander, and his professional judgand recommendations from the staff. The dement, he formulates and issues planning guid ance. This planning guidance provides the cision is a concise statement of the generalcourse of action which the unit will adopt to necessary direction for concurrent planning by accomplish the mission. The statement should the staff and a framework for making studiesand estimates. Planning guidance from the contain as much of the elements of who, what, commander is essential to eliminate needless when, where, how, and why as appropriate.The commander should elaborate upon the de exploratory work by the staff. cision by issuing his concept of the operation. b. Upon receipt of the commander's planning The concept is presented to the staff at the guidance, staff officers begin their individual time of the announcement of his decision. Thisstaff estimates. Formulation of operation es concept is the basis for the concept of operation,timates requires certain detailed information which is paragraph 3a of the operation order. 20 AGO 7121A It presents the commander's visualization of the operation and may include (1) Objective of operation. (2) Task organizations. (3) Escort plans. (4) Formations. ( 5) Maintenance support plans. ( 6) POL support. (7) General control measures to include loading area control, airspace control, and landing zone control. g. Based on the decision and the concept, the staff completes its planning.. The 83 has primary staff responsibility for the preparation of the plan. Additional details for the operation are furnished the 83 by other staff officers. The plan is then presented to the commander for his approval. After approval, the 83 prepares the plan (order) to implement the commander's decision. h. After the order is issued, 'the commander, assisted by his staff, supervises its execution. i. The executive officer coordinates the accomplishment of the above actions to insure that the proper coordination takes place between staff officers and the liaison officer, and that the commander's desires are followed. The executive officer is prepared to assume command if necessary. 4-21. Considerations in Developing Courses of Action The aviation battalion commander and staff must consider the following in arriving at a course of action considered in the estimate. a. Mission. The mission is always given first consideration in developing courses of action. The assigned mission, as well as missions of supported units, dictates employment of the battalion which in turn must be translated into tasks for subordinate and supporting units. Planning is oriented towards accomplishment of the mission. The aviation battalion plan must be integrated into and based upon the fire support plan and scheme of maneuver of sup- FM 1-15 ported units. Also, future m1sswns must be considered and priorities established for their implementation. b. Enemy. The location, disposition, and capability of the enemy (especially his air defense) must be considered. c. Weather. The effects of weather on visibility, soil, trafficability, and men and equipment are important considerations in developing the best course of action for any operation. Low ceilings and limited visibility reduce enemy air and ground action and may be advantageous during some combat operations. These weather conditions can hinder air operations by precluding the use of large formations of aircraft. d. Terrain. Terrain must be considered for local security and for locating support facilities such as airfields, heliports, loading zones, landing areas, navigation aids, flight routes, routes for ground supply, and communications. e. Availability of Personne1l, Aircraft, and Equipment. This refers to all the personnel, aircraft, and equipment available to the battalion. The disposition of the battalion and supporting units and time and space factors must be considered. Availability of maintenance support and navigational facilities is of primary importance. Class I, IliA, and VA supplies require special considerations because of the large area of operations of an aviation battalion. f. Airspace Utilization. Consideration must be given to use of available airspace as established within the broad guidance, including air regulations of the host country if applicable, for use of airspace within the theater of operations. At times the battalion may have to recommend changes to air defense rules of engagement, reentry procedures, concept of air support from other services, and the airspace utilization plan to accomplish a particular mission. g. Communications. One of the most essential elements to be considered in arriving at a course of action is communications for command control and logistical support. AGO 7121A 21 FM 1-15 CHAPTER 5 RECONNAISSANCE, SELECTION, AND OCCUPATION OF POSITION (RSOP) (6) The battalion should be located near 5-1. General security forces commensurate withReconnaissance of prospective base and sateldispersion requirements of the situalite airfield locations is a continuing process. tion.The preselection of a number of sites for possible (7) Terrain should provide natural defuture use will aid in selecting the most suit fensive features around the perimeter able position when the situation requires that of the base airfield. the unit be displaced. The decision to displace is usually made on the initiative of the battalion (8) Terrain should be checked for chemi cal and radiological contamination. commander in order to enable the unit to best respond to requirements of supported units. b. Selection. Final selection of the area to Divisional units must have prior approval of which the battalion is to displace, usually from the division commander for both the intended areas tentatively selected in advance, is made location and time of displacement. FM 1-5 as soon as possible after the need for displacecontains details on the warning order and the ment is established. The same considerationsreconnaissance, advance, and quartering parwhich are used for a reconnaissance (a above) ties. are used in selecting the most suitable location for the base and satellite installations. Ground 5-2. Steps in the RSOP reconnaissance of the tentatively selected location follows map and aerial reconnaissance. a. Reconnaissance. Factors to be considered The battalion quartering party moves to the when making reconnaissance of possible future new location and prepares to guide elements locations include the following: of the battalion into position. The quartering (1) Geographical location favoring the party consists of at least one representative ofmission. each of the battalion staff sections, one repre (2) Terrain should be adaptable to resentative of each collocated company, necessary quirements of the type aircraft being communications and maintenance personnel, used with a minimum of engineer and other personnel to include pathfinders reeffort. quired by the situation. Battalion and company position areas are described below: (3) Terrain features should allow for the positioning of units on satellite air(1) Battalion position area. The battalion fields as required. position area encompasses the bat (4) Terrain should be adaptable to retalion headquarters, the main operating base, and airfields/heliports as quirements of maintenance and com required. munications facilities, ground resupply, and other functions. (2) Company position area. A company position area includes the location of (5) Terrain features should provide for maximum concealment of installations the company headquarters, flight operations, and the airfield/heliport and activities. AGO 7121A 23 FM 1-15 from which the company's aircraft requires the presence of more personoperate. nel in the area prior to the arrival c c. Occupation of Position. Occupation of poof the main body than during the day. sition may be either hasty or deliberate, and One representative from each section may be executed during day or night. Followis required to lead that section to its ing is a discussion of the types of occupation assigned area and also to guide arriv which may be performed by an aviation bating vehicles to parking areas. Vehicles talion. should not move at night without a (1) Daytime hasty. When hasty occupaguide. To prevent delay at the ention of an airfield or heliport during trance to the airfield or heliport,guides must be familiar with the area daytime is necessary, reconnaissance of the intended area is made by the and must meet vehicles upon arrival. Aircraft should not be landed until the reconnaissance party from the airwhile the main body is en route. Norarea is secure and terminal facilitiesare available. The airfield or heliport mally, the airfield is selected and a landing made by the reconnaissance lights should be in place, communica tions established, and the facilitiesparty's aircraft. When use of the field checked for usability prior to darkhas been determined feasible, the en ness. Wire communications should beroute unit is advised. The reconnaisoperational and, if possible, the opera sance party organizes the area andpoints out locations for arriving eletions tent or vehicle should be in position prior to arrival of aircraft. Land ments. The aviator of the reconnaissance aircraft may be required to poings and ground movement of aircraft sition arriving units or act as the must be controlled by a controller controller to land other aircraft. familiar with the terrain and airfieldorganization. Pathfinder support nor (2) Daytime deliberate. When sufficient mally will be utilized. time is available for preplanning and c the careful selection of a new area, S-3. Displacement of Headquarters a deliberate move is made. The bat talion commander's party moves to During the displacement, the battalion com the new location to supervise preparamander or his representative accompanies the tions for positioning arriving units. advance party to the new location in advance The battalion is usually divided into of the first echelon to supervise preparations two echelons for the displacement. for positioning arriving units. The executive Upon receipt of the commander's officer (or the commander) remains with the order, the first echelon moves to the second echelon to conduct headquarters func new location. The second echelon retions while the first echelon displaces to the new mains operational during that period. location. After the first echelon has completed After the first echelon completes disthe displacement and become operational and placement and becomes operational, the battalion commander's party has established the commander orders the second echeheadquarters at the new location, the second lon to displace to the new location. echelon and the remaining headquarters ele (3) Night hasty. Night hasty occupation ment displace to the new location. is not attempted except under condi tions of extreme urgency. Under such S-4. Aviation Battalion Marches conditions, the procedure discussed in a. Motor march techniques to include proper( 4) below is adapted to the situation. intervals between vehicles, safe speeds, and (4) Night deliberate. Deliberate occupasecurity are discussed in detail in FM 55-35.tion of an airfield or heliport at night Rehearsals are excellent means of resolving (~ 24 AGO 7121A FM 1-15 problems which will be encountered in actual concentration of aircraft. The trail aircraft of moves. FM 19-25 contains guidance on esseneach flight should carry tools, parts, and main tial motor vehicle traffic control techniques and tenance personnel for emergency repairs en procedures. Appendix F discusses Redeye emroute. ployment during motor marches. c. The battalion should develop standing opb. To insure continuous operations, movement erating procedures covering motor and airof aircraft normally is phased by echelons, dimoves to include loading plans and security previded into flights if necessary, with sufficient cautions. FM 100-5 contains doctrine governtime intervals between flights to allow position ing in the new area without creating a large ing troop movements. AGO 7121A 25 ( c FM 1-15 • 6-1. General The aviation battalion command post is the headquarters from which the commander and his staff exercise administrative and tactical functions. Personnel of the CP normally include- a. The battalion commander (who also serves as the division aviation officer in the divisional aviation battalion). b. The executive officer. c. The Sl, S2, S3, and S4 qr their representatives. d. The signal officer and/or other required special staff personnel. e. The battalion sergeant major. f. Sufficient clerical, communications, and other personnel to assist the commander and staff in maintaining a 24-hour capability for the CP. 6-2. Location a. The CP is located in the position best suited to accomplishing the mission and from which control over the elements of the battalion can best be exercised normally on or near the division airfield. Since reliable communications must be maintained, suitability of terrain to the operation of communications equipment is one of the first considerations in determining the specific location of the command post. For this reason, the signal officer, normally in conjunction with the Sl, studies the terrain and makes recommendations for the exact location and interior arrangement of the CP. b. The CP should be located so as to permit maximum dispersion of personnel or equipment -~ \ CHAPTER 6 ORGANIZATION OF POSITION Section I. COMMAND POST consistent with efficient operations. It should not be near prominent terrain features such as crossroads and bridges which could provide references for enemy observation and fire. Other matters to be considered include security, cover and concealment, accessibility, and soil condition and drainage. c. The S3 makes recommendations for the general location of the CP to the battalion commander. The Sl, after consultation with the headquarters company commander and the signal officer, recommends selection of the specific site. 6-3. Internal Arrangement The policy of the battalion commander, in accordance with the situation, influences the internal arrangement of the CP. The Sl has staff responsibility for positioning elements and personnel normally in accordance with the battalion SOP. In general, personnel on duty in the CP at any given time are limited to those essential to its efficient operation. The minimization of foot and vehicular traffic within the CP is a basic consideration. Traffic can be reduced by locating key personnel and facilities in close proximity to others having the same areas of interest. It may be possible for the commander and principal staff officers to be located within voice distance of each other. The Sl and S4 may be collocated and the S2 may be collocated with the S3. A dismount point, established adjacent to the immediate area, will preclude unnecessary vehicular traffic in the CP. Location of the message center just inside the entrance to the CP will simplify the flow of outgoing and incoming messages. The location of the communications element near AGO 7121A 27 FM 1-15 the message center will facilitate the flow of by locating the CP in a wooded or otherwise • messages between those two elements. protected and concealed area. It may be neces sary to dig in or revet critical installations. 6-4. Security of the Command Post Natural concealment should be preserved by avoiding the creation of roadways leading toThe aviation battalion is basically responsible the CP as well as other terrain alterationsfor the security of its own CP. The battalion which will be visible to enemy observers. If aexecutive officer has staff responsibility for this helicopter landing area is needed, it should besecurity. The headquarters company comlocated adjacent to the CP, preferably in amander formulates and implements the local natural clearing near trees under which heli-CP security plan. Where security is a problem copters can be concealed from aerial observabeyond the capability of the battalion, the 83 tion. Panels or lights identifying the landingrecommends to the battalion commander that area may be displayed during prearrangedan appropriate security element be requested periods only; they should be concealed at otherfrom higher headquarters. Avoidance of detectimes. Deceptive approaches and departurestion through use of camouflage, concealment, should be used by aircraft crews operating toand dispersion reduces problems of security. and from the vicinity for the purpose of landingUse of remote control equipment makes possior airdropping messages or equipment. Motorble the positioning of the CP in a wooded area and foot traffic near the CP should be kept to or lower ground, with the radio antennas ina minimum and should be concealed to avoidstalled on adjacent hilltops. Cover and con attracting the interest of enemy observers. Ap cealment are gained by constructing cover and pendixes E and F discuss defense against enemy taking advantage of natural terrain features air attack or observation. Section II. HEADQUARTERS COMPANY 6-5. General talion commander and staff with enlisted personnel for the battalion staff sections. The headquarters company of the aviation battalion is organized to provide the necessary c. Battalion Communications Section. Perpersonnel and equipment to meet the internal sonnel of the battalion communications section administrative and operational requirements supervise and participate in the establishment of the battalion headquarters. The headquarand operation of the communications system of ters company commander supervises all activithe aviation battalion and provide organizaties of his unit. tional maintenance for the battalion's ground communications equipment. They are also re6-6. Elements sponsible for operating the battalion airfield terminal control facility, including air-groundElements of the headquarters company incommunications and GCA equipment. In theclude the-. airborne division, the airfield terminal control a. Company Headquarters. This unit prosection performs this function (chap 9) . vides administrative services for the battalion d. Battalion Maintenance Section. The bat headquarters and headquarters company. These talion maintenance section performs organizaservices pertain to individual requirements of tional maintenance on wheeled vehicles organicassigned personnel to include mess, supply, to the headquarters and headquarters companyquarters, supervision of nonduty hours activiand backup organizational maintenance forties, and the maintenance of some administrasubordinate units. It also provides supervisiontive records. for, and performs inspection of, all battalion b. Battalion Headquarters Section. The batmaintenance activities except the maintenance talion headquarters section provides the bat-of signal equipment, and performs radiological ( 28 AGO 7121A \ .::.:.:. -~ \ and chemical decontamination of organizational equipment as required. e. Battalion Medical Section. The battalion medical section provides unit level medical service to include establishment of an aid station and medical care and evacuation of assigned and attached personnel of the battalion (chap 9) . • _FM 1-15 f. Pathfinder Section. The pathfinder section reconnoiters and marks drop or landing sites to insure accurate delivery of personnel and materiel by airdrop or landing operations, and assists in navigation and control of Army aircraft in the objective area. The section is similar to the pathfinder platoon, airmobile division, discussed in chapter 15. AGO 7121A 29 FM 1-15 CHAPTER 7 COMBAT SERVICE SUPPORT Section I. 7-1. General Combat service support is the assistance provided to operating forces primarily in the fields of administrative services, chaplain service, civil affairs, finance, legal service, maintenance, medical service, military police, replacements, supply, transportation, and other logistical services including military civic action. GENERAL 7-2. Responsibilities The S4 is the staff officer responsible for logistics within the aviation battalion. The Sl is responsible for personnel actions and the maintenance of administrative records and reports. Civil affairs activities of the aviation battalion are limited to those affecting accomplishment of the mission and those support tasks which may be properly assigned. When the mission allows, personnel may participate in military civic action projects as part of the overall civil affairs program (FM 41-10). Section II. LOGISTICS GENERAL ) / 7-3. Major Areas of Responsibility The S4 is responsible for the supply, maintenance, evacuation, and transportation services of the battalion. He keeps the battalion commander informed concerning supply matters within the battalion. The battalion headquarters section implements action to secure supplies, transportation, and food service support. Medical service is provided by the battalion medical section. Wheeled vehicle maintenance is performed by the battalion maintenance section. Miscellaneous related activities at the battalion level consist primarily of logistical planning and preparation of orders to implement the plan for combat service support of the tactical operation. Section Ill. 7-4. Mess Unit feeding plans are prepared by unit commanders to conform to missions, locations, and other conditions. In the infantry division, the aviation general support company provides mess facilities for the headquarters and headquarters company. In the airborne division aviation battalion, mess facilities for the general support company are provided by the headquarters company. The S4 provides for the feeding of detached units by transporting food to such units, supplying them with facilities and personnel for preparing their own food, or by other means. Arrangements can sometimes be simplified by arranging for a detached unit to mess with a collocated unit of ariother organization. SUPPLY 7-5. Normal Supply classes of supply to the field army. The division support command provides division level a. General. The field army support command (FASCOM) is responsible for providing all logistical support to include storage and distri i AGO 7121A FM 1-15 bution of class I, II, Ill, and IV supplies and control of class V supply. (In the airborne division, the support command provides 'storage and distribution of limited amounts of class V supplies. In the airmobile division, the support command also stores and issues class V supplies.) If class V supplies cannot be delivered to the using unit, they must be picked up by the using unit directly from field ariny ammunition supply points (ASP) established and operated by elements of the F AS COM ammunition brigade. b. Divisional Aviation Battalion. AR 711-16, AR 725-50, and AR 735-35 contain procedures for requesting and requisitioning supplies. Following is a list of the classes of supply, including water, and a brief discussion of the requisitioning procedures for a divisional aviation battalion. (1) Class I. The divisional aviation battalion is furnished class I supplies by the supply or supply and transport battalion, as appropriate. Ration issues normally are based on unit strengths, the desires of the commanders, and the tactical operations. To the extent feasible, rations are delivered on a scheduled supply basis without requisition by the unit. Quantities are based on unit strengths as reported by the ad~inistration company. (2) Class II. Class II supplies, with the exception of aircraft repair parts and medical, cryptographic, and electrical accounting supplies (to include punch cards) , are provided by the supply and transport battalion. Replacement aircraft and aircraft supplies and repair parts are furnished by the aircraft maintenance and supply battalion or by the aircraft maintenance company of the division maintenance battalion, depending on the type division involved. (3) Class III. Class III. items are drawn from and may be delivered to the user by tankers of the supply and transport battalion, or by means of aircraft in airborne and airmobile operations. ( 4) Class IV. Class IV items are requisitioned through command channels. The supply and transport battalion or another supplying organization delivers this class of supply to the user or to the forward class I distributing point where the items are issued to the requesting unit. (5) Class V. In the infantry, ,!armored, mechanized, and airborne divisions, ammunition requisitions (transportation orders), usually to replace expenditures from the basic load, must be approved by the division ammunition officer (DAO) who normally is located at the command post of the support· command. The DAO may station a representative at the class V distribution point to facilitate authentication of requisitions for ammunition. The aviation battalion sends its organic vehicle to the DAO authentication point, then on to the class V supply point to pick up the needed ammunition. In the airmobile division, unit distribution is the pri • mary method of providing class V supplies to units and resupply of ammunition, like other supplies, is made by the support command on a scheduled basis. (6) Water. The division engineer battalion establishes water points at convenient locations near the class I supply point. The aviation battalion sends its watercarrying vehicle to the nearest distribution point to obtain the battalion's water supply. 7-6. Aviation Supply Supplies peculiar to aviation are identified by the suffix A. The classes of aviation supply are as follows : a. Class IIA and IVA. As with other end items, the division supply and transportation battalion is responsible for normal end item supply of aircraft items. Aviation repair parts, AGO 7121A FM 1-15 including avionics and aerial armament repair ments are made for other vehicles to assist in parts, are provided on an as-needed basis by the POL supply. c. Class VA. Each company of a divisional the transportation aircraft maintenance comaviation battalion uses its organic vehicles to pany of the division maintenance battalions. transport aviation ammunition from the b. Class IliA. Where unit distribution is not nearest ammunition supply point. Units whose effective, the using unit sends its organic reammunition expenditures may exceed their fueling equipment to the class IliA supply transportation capabilities may request addipoint to pick up aviation POL supplies. If tional transport vehicles from their higher organic equipment is inadequate, local arrange-headquarters. Section IV. MAINTENANCE 7-7. General Maintenance includes all actions taken to keep equipment in a serviceable condition or to restore it to serviceability. The battalion commander performs maintenance inspections to ascertain the serviceability of equipment and promote efficient maintenance. The battalion maintenance section keeps the commander informed regarding the status of organizational maintenance activities in the · battalion. a. Categories of Maintenance. The categories of maintenance are as follows (AR 750-1) : ( 1) Organizational maintenance. Organizational maintenance is that maintenance normally authorized for, performed by, and the responsibility of a using organization on equipment in its possession. (2) Direct support maintenance. Direct support maintenance is that maintenance normally authorized for and performed by the designated maintenance activities in direct support of using organizations. It consists of the repair of end items or unserviceable assemblies in support of using organizations on a return to user basis. ( 3) General support maintenance. General support maintenance is that maintenance authorized for and performed by designated TOE and TD organizations in support of the Army supply system. (4) Depot maintenance. Depot maintenance activities, through overhaul of economically repairable materiel, augment the procurement program in satisfying overall Army requirements and, when required, provide for repair of materiel beyond the capability of general support maintenance organizations. b. Maintenance Responsibilities. (1) Commander. A commander is responsible for (a) Insuring that all equipment issued to his unit is in a serviceable and combat-ready condition and is properly used, maintained, and serviced. (b) Advising higher commanders of equipment replacement and maintenance support requirements. (c) Complying with preventive maintenance instructions and procedures, to include training his command accordingly. (d) Assigning maintenance responsibilities for organizational equipment to specific individuals. (e) Advising the commander of the supporting aircraft direct support company concerning projected maintenance support requirements, coordinating with the support commander in developing a mutually acceptable aircraft maintenance support plan, and assuring delivery of AGO 7121A FM 1-15 equipment to the maintenance activity in accordance with the agreed upon maintenance schedule. (2) Individuals. Individuals are responsible for equipment issued for their own use. Operators or users of equipment are responsible for proper preventive maintenance of assigned equipment. c. Maintenance Inspections. Inspections are the means by which commanders ascertain the serviceability of equipment and promote efficient maintenance. The commander insures that action is taken to correct deficiencies noted during inspections. The maintenance battalion of the division support command inspects the organizational maintenance of aircraft and motor vehicles (FM 54-2). d. Maintenance Records. Maintenance records are kept in accordance with the Army integrated equipment records and maintenance management system (TM 38-750 and TM 38750-1). 7-8. Aircraft Maintenance The aviation battalion maintenance officer keeps the battalion commander informed as to the status of battalion aircraft. The maintenance officer collects this information through status reports, through inspection of aircraft, and by following closely the progress on aircraft undergoing maintenance. Aircraft maintenance at the direct support level, to include supply, recovery, and repair, is performed by the transportation aircraft maintenance company of the infantry/airborne division support command's maintenance battalion or the aircraft maintenance and supply battalion of the airmobile division support command. The aircraft maintenance company and the battalion also provide direct support avionic and armament maintenance for items installed in aircraft of the aviation battalion. 7-9. Vehicle Maintenance a. The battalion maintenance officer and motor vehicle personnel assigned to the maintenance section assist the battalion commander by keeping him informed regarding the status of motor vehicles in the battalion. This information is collected by the maintenance section through vehicle status reports from the various units, inspection of maintenance records, inspection of equipment, and investigations to determine progress being made on vehicles undergoing maintenance. The maintenance section also procures parts and services necessary to the organizational maintenance of the battalion's motor vehicles. b. The battalion maintenance section performs vehicle maintenance at the organizational maintenance level which is beyond the capabilities of drivers and crews whose maintenance duties generally are confined to the operation, cleaning, and lubrication of vehicles. This section assists the company maintenance personnel in performing organizational maintenance as necessary. Vehicle maintenance beyond the organizational level normally is provided to the divisional battalion by the headquarters and main support company of the division support command maintenance battalion (FM 9-30 and FM 29-22). 7-10. Communications and Electronic Maintenance The aviation battalion signal officer keeps the battalion commander informed as to the status of all communications electronics equipment in the aviation battalion. The signal officer collects this information through status reports and by inspection. Only organizational communications electronics maintenance is accomplished within the aviation battalion. Direct support level avionics maintenance is provided by the division's aircraft maintenance unit. Limited direct support maintenance of cryptographic equipment is performed by the signal battalion. Other direct support signal maintenance is provided by the division's maintenance battalion. 7-11. Other Maintenance Organizational maintenance of organic medical, communications, and nonvehicular materiel, and similar equipment is performed by personnel of the unit using the equipment. Direct AGO 7121A ( ( • FM 1-15 support maintenance of ~edical equipment may or by the nearest medical unit having a directI / be performed by the division medical battalion support capability. Section V. OTHER 7-12. Captured Materiel The aviation battalion will seldom be concerned with the disposition of captured enemy materiel. However, the commander must provide for the prompt disposition of any such materiel acquired by the battalion. Items of new or unusual design are selected for routing through intelligence channels. Other captured materiel is disposed of in the same manner as salvage. The use of captured materiel which may lead to misidentification of the user by friendly forces is restricted to emergency conditions and is undertaken only after adjacent friendly forces have been alerted to plans for its use. 7-13. Destruction of Supplies and Equipment a. The laws of land warfare forbid intentional destruction of medical supplies and equipment (FM 27-10). b. Upon authority from higher headquarters, normally according to a previously prepared plan, nonmedical supplies and equipment may be destroyed to deny their use to the enemy. c. Nonmedical supplies and equipment which can be put to use to relieve suffering by civilians will not be destroyed but will be turned over to the appropriate civil affairs unit for disposi- LOGISTICAL MATTERS tion in accordance with the theater policy relative to civilian supply. 7-14. CBR Effects on Combat Service Support Following a nuclear attack, battalion units are reequipped and resupplied as quickly and completely as the situation permits. It may be possible to redistribute supplies and equipment within the battalion to relieve severe shortages in units most seriously affected by the attack. Initial decontamination efforts are confined to those areas containing critically needed supplies and equipment. Commanders must arrange to operate with available supplies and equipment until resupply can be accomplished. Combat service support functions will be concentrated on alleviating shortages in priority areas during the resupply period. 7-15. Decontamination The aviation battalion will be concerned primarily with the decontamination of personnel, equipment, supplies, aircraft, and ground vehicles. Washing and weathering are two of the simplest means of decontamination. FM 21-40, FM 21-41, and TM 3-220 contain details on the decontamination of personnel and equipment. Section VI. MEDICAL SUPPORT 7-16. Organization of the Medical Section The battalion surgeon supervises the operation of the medical section (aid station) in the divisional aviation battalion. Enlisted medical personnel assist the surgeon in providing medical care and treatment within the capability of the section. 7-17. Operation of the Medical Section Aid men furnish emergency medical treatment to patients in the field. If further treat- AGO 7121A ment is required, patients are evacuated to the battalion aid station where emergency treatment is continued. Patients who can be treated within the capabilities of the aid station are given necessary emergency care and returned to duty. Patients whose injuries or illnesses necessitate further treatment are evacuated to the nearest clearing station or other appropriate medical treatment facility. Patients are FM 1-15 evacuated by air and ground ambulances of the supporting medical unit. Ifthe requirement for evacuation of patients exceeds the capability of the supporting ambulance unit, nonmedical air or surface transportation may be employed under control of the surgeon. Section VII. PERSONNEL ACTIONS AND ADMINISTRATIVE RECORDS AND REPORTS 7-19. Personnel Actions The battalion S1 conducts or supervises most personnel actions in the battalion. His activities are coordinated with other battalion staff officers regarding their areas of interest and in accordance with the SOP. Personnel functions for which the S1 is responsible, wholly or in coordination with other battalion staff officers, include- a. Personnel records and reports. b. Replacements. c. Prisoners of war. d. Recovery and disposition, including search, recovery, identification, and evacuation of U.S., Allied, or enemy dead. e. Maintenance of discipline, law and order. f. Morale and personnel services, including pass and leave policy, awards and decorations, mail, finance service, special services, and promotions and battlefield appointments. 7-20. Unit Records and Reports The S1 is responsible for maintaining unit records and for preparing reports required of the battalion. The unit SOP should indicate the battalion commander's requirements regarding the preparation and maintenance of such rec 7-18. Medical Supply Medical supplies and equipment for the aviation battalion are requisitioned by the battalion surgeon from the division medical battalion, or nearest medical unit with support capability. These requests may be carried by ambulances evacuating patients. ords and reports. Written reports which may be required include initial strength report, field morning report, airhead strength report, personnel report, personnel daily summary, personnel situation report, and casualty feeder reports. Notes and memorandums may be maintained to facilitate preparation of necessary reports. Company reports can often be minimized by use of the telephone. 7-21. Unit Journal The unit journal is a logbook of chronological record of events kept by a unit or staff section. The S3 maintains the journal for the battalion. The commander may require that each staff section, or any combination of staff sections, maintains a journal covering the activities in their respective areas of responsibility (FM 101-5). The classification of the journal will be stamped at the top and bottom of each page. 7-22. Workbook Each battalion staff section maintains a workbook in which is recorded information regarding the section for possible future use in preparing reports, estimates, plans, and orders. The format of the workbook will be varied to fit the needs of the user. The classification will be stamped at the top and bottom of each page. • AGO 7121A 36 c FM 1-15 CHAPTER 8 PLANS AND OPERATIONS Section I. MISSION ASSIGNMENT 8-1. General The opportunity to employ Army aviation to the best advantage may come suddenly and require immediate action on the part of the aviation battalion or its subordinate elements. For this reason, the battalion must maintain a constant state of readiness, consistent with its routine missions. Prior planning and coordination of aviation support will promote efficient and rapid reaction to operational requirements. Close coordination between the supporting and supported commanders is of primary importance for accomplishment of the mission. When the mission assigned to a company is different from the mission of the battalion, the company may be placed under operational control of the headquarters that directed and is supporting the operation. Under certain circumstances, an aviation battalion commander may attach one company to another or place one company under operational control of another for a specific mission or period of time. 8-2. Tactical Missions and Command Relationships a. Support requirements to be implemented by an aviation battalion are indicated by the assignment of tactical missions. These tactical missions are assigned by the commander of the force being supported by the battalion. b. A subordinate aviation commander has the authority, inherent in his command responsibility, to issue orders to elements under his command as necessary for the accomplishment of his assigned mission. This includes organizing his unit for combat and dividing assigned tactical missions into appropriate tasks, if such action does not degrade his overall capability of accomplishing his assigned mission and does not reduce the degree of centralized control retained by the commander of the unit being supported. c. Aviation units may be assigned one of three standard tactical missions: general support, direct support, or reinforcing. A direct support assignment provides the supported commander greater freedom of utilization than a general support or reinforcing assignment (table 1). (1) General support. An aviation unit assigned the mission of general support furnishes aviation support to the forces as a whole. Control is retained by the parent unit or a higher headquarters which also establishes priorities for support. The supporting unit commander prepares his own plans and orders and retains the responsibility for all that his unit does or fails to do. (2) Direct support (DS). An aviation unit assigned the mission of DS provides aviation support for a specified command, to include the staff function of advising and assisting the supported commander in all aviation matters. The DS aviation unit commander positions his unit and coordinates its activities with those of the supported command as necessary to properly accomplish the support mission. How ever, the aviation unit remains under the command of the commander who assigned the DS mission. The supporting unit commander prepares his own plans and orders and retains the AGO 7121A 37 w Table 1. Missions and Command Relationships for Aviation Units. Ot Army aviation unit assignedtactical mission or command relationship of- Attachment __ Operational control. Direct support General support. Reinforcing __ Receives tasks from and responds directly- HQ to which attached. HQ exercising operational control. HQ being supported. HQ being supported. HQ being reinforced. I Establishes communications and liaison with- HQ to which attached As directed by HQ exercising operational control. HQ being supported _ As directed by the HQ being supported. Reinforced HQ -----· Moves base by order of- HQ to which attached. ____ HQ exercising operational control. Parent unit or at the discretion of the supporting unit commander. Parent unit or a higher HQ Parent unit or at the discretion of the reinforcing unit commander. -I Combat service Highest degree of control support furnished that can be passed -Ul through-to subordinates- HQ to which attached un-All missions and relationless otherwise specified. ships listed in this table. Habitual service support Operational control, DS, GS, channels or as otherwise reinforcing. specified. Habitual service support DS channels or as otherwise specified. Habitual service support GS channels or as otherwise specified. Habitual service support Reinforcing. channels or as otherwise specified. > c;'l ..., .... "' > (j /\, .~~ FM 1-15 responsibility for all his unit does or fails to do. This supporting role provides a direct mission request channel between the units with the supported unit commander specifying the requirements while the supporting unit commander determines how the requirements are to be provided. (3) Reinforcing. An aviation unit assigned the mission of reinforcing augments the aviation support capabilities of another aviation unit. The reinforcing unit remains under the command of its parent organization, but its flight missions are planned and controlled by the reinforced unit. A direct communications channel is established between the reinforcing and the reinforced units, and the reinforced unit calls directly upon the reinforcing unit for assistance. The authority and responsibility of commanders are the same as those prescribed for direct support. d. Freedom of utilization permits the commander to employ organic, attached, or supporting Army aviation units in the way which contributes most to the successful accomplishment of his mission. Organic assignment provides the commander with greater freedom of utilization than attachment, and attachment provides greater freedom of utilization than operational control. ( 1) Organic assignment. An organic assignment is authorized by TOE or by modification TOE (MTOE) and is relatively permanent in nature. (2) Attachment. Attachment is the assignment of a status, not a tactical mission ; a tactical mission is assigned by the command to which attachment is made. An aviation unit may be attached to a maneuver element or to another aviation unit. In addition to complete control, the gaining commander is responsible for providing the logistical and administrative functions for the attached unit. Because of the increased burden imposed by AGO 7121A -=:) these functions, attachment of aviation units will be made only when the situation dictates, such as duration or distance involved in support of the operation. Should a supported unit be unable to provide the required support, the attachment order may limit the amount of service support provided. (3) Operational control. Aviation units may be placed under the operational control of the supported unit to plan and direct the operation. The degree of control provided with this assignment is the same as that given by attachment, except that the supported unit is not responsible for the logistical and administrative functions of the aviation unit. 8-3. Additional Aviation Support An operation may require aviation support in addition to that which can be provided by organic aviation. To provide this support, nonorganic aviation units may be made available. These supporting units may be given any of the missions or command relationships discussed above. Supporting units are usually controlled by the headquarters of the supported unit; however, circumstances may require that control be delegated to a lower level. The supported force commander may delegate the same or a lesser degree of control than that which he has been given. 8-4. Planning Factors Aviation planning is based on tactical plans of units to be supported. To insure mission accomplishment and maximum efficiency, the following factors should be thoroughly analyzed: a. Mission. Missions assigned to aviation units, as well as the mission of the supported unit, must be considered. b. Enemy Situation. The location, disposition, and capabilities of enemy units will be considered, with special emphasis on air defense and offense capabilities. FM 1-15 c. Coordination. Complete coordination must be accomplished, including coordination with the supporting aircraft maintenance company. The supporting aviation unit commander has primary responsibility to accomplish coordination. d. Aircraft Requirements and Future Commitments. In determining the number of aircraft to be committed in support of a specific operation, the aviation commander must consider planned future commitments and relative operational priorities. He must evaluate the materiel readiness of his equipment, compute the approximate number of operational flying hours that will be required to support commitments, and determine when scheduled support maintenance will be required. e. Crew Requirements. The availability of aircraft crewmembers is as important to the unit's capability for mission performance as the availability of aircraft. Crew requirements must be considered in connection with, rather than separate from, requirements for aircraft. The personnel strength status in officer/warrant officer aviators and enlisted aviation specialists will allow the commander to determine the capabilities for operating available aircraft. f. Logistical Requirements. Special consideration must be given to logistical requirements, to include POL, ammunition, and maintenance. (1) POL. For extended operations, the location of refueling points should be planned and located so as to become an integral part of the plan of operation. (2) Ammunition. Considering that only small quantities of ammunition can be carried on Army aircraft, reloading facilities must be well organized to permit rapid turnaround times. To expedite operations, reloading sites should be located well forward in conjunction with refueling points. (3) Maintenance. To assure a satisfactory level of aircraft availability, maintenance must be continual. This requires that a maintenance schedule be prepared and complied with. Mainte nance planning and scheduling requires the closest working relation c ships between the supported and supporting units. Upon call of the aviation unit, the supporting aircraft maintenance company furnishes mobile repair teams to make on-site repairs and, when required, to provide field recovery of downed aircraft. (4) Special equipment. Plans must include requirements for any special equipment to be used during the assigned mission. g. Weather Information and Sources. Weather conditions are an important consideration in operational planning. While low ceilings and limited visibility conditions may restrict aviation operations, such conditions may be used to advantage in shielding the aircraft from enemy observation and permitting the element of surprise. Weather information is received from the air weather service detachment. h. Maps, Charts, and Photos. All available maps and charts will be used during operation planning and, when possible, will be supplemented by aerial photos. i. Flight Routes, Altitudes, and Formations. Flight routes, altitudes, and formations must be based on the plan of operation and should afford the best possible concealment offered by the terrain, avoid enemy detection and encounter short of the objective (s), and, if possible, remain within range of friendly supporting fires. Air movement plans must be coordinated with fire support and air defense elements in tactical operations centers and must conform to air defense identification rules and procedures. In an internal defense and development operation, the movement plan must be coordinated with the controlling tactical operations center, air support operation center, or similar host country or combined control center such as the area coordination center. j. Navigational Aids. Maximum use is made of navigational aids available within the area of operation. k. Movement Control. The aviation battalion commander is rarely able to exercise the degree c 40 AGO 7121A • of movement control he desires during administrative or tactical operations. This is particularly true in tactical operations in which control is complicated and must be carefully supervised. Effective supervision of control measures is exercised through the use of the chain of command. Movement control is a vital part of planning for aviation support of combat operations. Movement control measures should be continually stressed in all phases of planning, established as part of the unit SOP, and exercised through the chain of command. l. Loading Area and Landing Zone Control. (1) General. Control of loading areas and landing zones is of prime importance to prevent congestion of aircraft. (2) Loading area. To prevent massing of supported units and aircraft within the loading area, operations should be timed to provide for the simultaneous arrival of troops and aircraft in the loading area. This will assist in insuring maximum security and rapidity of movement. Also, timing should permit immediate takeoff following loading. Control of the loading area is normally under the overall supervision of the supported unit commander and may utilize pathfinder personnel or unit terminal guidance personnel. (3) Landing zone. Control of the landing zone is normally performed from an airborne CP. To assist in control, pathfinder personnel may be parachuted, rappelled, or airlanded into the landing zone prior to the arrival of the airmobile task force or ma,y be part of the initial helicopter assault. Section II. 8-5. General Use of SOP will reduce the reaction time and increase the effectiveness of units conducting aviation operations. The SOP should cover the performance of normal tasks within the capabilities of the aviation battalion. AGO 7121A FM 1-15 The decision to use pathfinder personnel rests with the airmobile task force commander. m. Deceptive Tactics. Planning should consider use of tactics which deceive the enemy as to the true purpose or destination of the opera• tion. n. Crash Rescue Plan. The battalion SOP describes the organization and functions of the crash rescue plan as applied to general operations. The operations order adapts the plan to the specific operation concerned. Included in the crash rescue plan are procedures to be followed by ( 1) Crews of downed aircraft in determining whether to remain with the aircraft to await rescue, or to abandon the aircraft and employ evasion and escape measures to return to friendly lines. (2) Aircraft crews in locating downed aircraft, rendering aid to the occupants, and directing crash rescue personnel to the scene. (3) Personnel concerned with the recovery or destruction of downed aircraft. o. Signal Items. Items such as frequencies; call signs, authentication tables, and air-ground reference signals must be coordinated and issued during aircrew briefings. p. Evasion and Escape. Aircrews and passengers should be briefed on the route of flight and the procedures to follow should the aircraft be downed, with emphasis on location and identification of rally points. Evasion and escape procedures must be incorporated in detail in the unit SOP (FM 21-77). OPERATIONS 8-6. Airmobile Operations a. Airmobile operations permit the ground commander to employ the capabilities of his aviation units to form a balanced combat force. The capability to conduct airmobile operations enables the commander to FM 1-15 (1) Pose a constant threat which may cause the enemy to divert combat force to maintain a strong posture in rear areas to protect his installations and hold key terrain. (2) Overcome distances and bypass barriers and enemy defenses. (3) Greatly extend the area over which he can exert his influence. ( 4) Deploy his forces more effectively by holding highly mobile reserves in dispersed areas. (5) Gain a favorable tactical mobility differential over enemy ground forces. b. The capability for ground combat units and Army aviation units to conduct airmobile operations must be highly developed through frequent airmobile unit training and the development of pertinent unit SOP. The unit SOP is based on those prepared by the lowest headquarters having control over both the ground combat and Army aviation units. A detailed discussion of all aspects of airmobile operations is contained in FM 57-35. c. When the operation is to be supported by Army pathfinders and/or terminal guidance personnel, complete coordination must be accomplished. Detailed information on pathfinder operations is contained in FM 57-38. 8-7. Armed Helicopters Armed helicopters are used to supplement the firepower available to the ground commander from ground-based weapons and from means provided by other Services. (FM 1110 contains a detailed discussion of the employment of armed helicopters.) They can be used in offensive, defensive, reconnaissance, security, and special operations to provide a. Responsive aerial firepower against per sonnel and materiel on area or point type targets. b. Escort of other helicopters such as those airlifting troops participating in airmobile operations. c. Extension of the reconnaissance and security capabilities of ground units. d. An additional means of adjusting indirect fire from field artillery and naval guns. e. An additional means of target acquisition, target fixing, and the means for initiating requests for close air support by Air Force, Navy, and Marine attack aircraft. Armed helicopters can be used to augment the striking force and to evaluate strikes subsequent to the attack. 8-8. Battlefield Surveillance Tasks Battlefield surveillance involves the systematic and continuous observation of selected areas by visual side looking aerial radar (SLAR), infrared (IR), and photographic means. The accomplishment of this task provides the supported commander with timely information for combat intelligence with which he can influence the action. Types of surveillance are a. Visual. Visual surveillance is accomplished using all aircraft of the aviation battalion whether on a specific surveillance task or in conjunction with another task. Reports of an immediate nature are relayed by radio through intelligence or command channels. If an immediate report is not required, a report is forwarded through intelligence channels following the task debriefing. b. SLAR/IR. Aircraft assigned at corps and army, equipped with IR and SLAR devices, are used to perform surveillance in support of the division. Simultaneously with the recording of the imagery in the aircraft, a signal is transmitted to the division's ground station where the imagery is recorded for processing and evaluation by intelligence personnel of the division. c. Photography. Army aviation aer~al photography provides photographic coverage which supplements the capabilities of other agencies. Aerial photography includes daylight vertical and oblique photography and night vertical photography. Army aerial photography is limi• ted to spot, strip, and mosaic coverage of small areas. 8-9. Battlefield Resupply Tasks a. Aviation battalions assist in the movement of supplies and equipment within the combat AGO 7121A c~ L FM 1-15 zone to augment the ground force commander's capability to accomplish the land combat functions of mobility and logistics. Coordination and planning for resupply tasks will be accomplished at the level possessing the supplies and aircraft required to perform the desired task. In addition to normal aviation task planning, planning for resupply tasks includes the following: ( 1) Responsibility for preparing and loading supplies and equipment. This normally is not an aviation unit responsi bility. (2) Method of delivery (air landed or airdropped). b. TM 57-210 and operator's manual of available aircraft present detailed information on resupply. 8-10. Other Tasks Other tasks which can be performed by the aviation battalion include a. Reconnaissance support. • Section Ill. AIR TRAFFIC REGULATIONS 8-11. General The Army air traffic regulation system and its operation are based on principles and procedures that permit maximum use of airspace by unit commanders in responding to the requirements of the tactical situation. Unit command control of aircraft is the basic means of coordinating and regulating the employment of Army aircraft within the division area. Positive air traffic control measures are exercised during Instrument flight conditions and/or above a specified coordinating altitude. These control measures are regulated by an air traffic control agency under the control of corps or higher headquarters. 8-12. Visual Flight Conditions Unit control is the normal method of regulating Army aircraft operating in visual flight conditions throughout the division area. Control measures are specified by the commander AGO 7121A b. Command control. c. Internal defense/development operations support (FM 31-22). d. CBR support, to include dissemination of CBR agents and conduct of aerial radiological survey. e. Airlift for movement of patients. f. Airlift in support of civil affairs requirements (FM 1-100). g. Participation in military civic action as a part of the overall civil affairs program (FM 41-10). h. Battlefield illumination. i. Psychological operations, to include loudspeaker broadcasts and leaflet drop. j. Aerial messenger service. k. Aerial laying of communications wire. l. Movement of signal equipment and personnel to positions inaccessible by ground movement and their resupply. of the supported unit and are exercised through the commander of the supporting aircraft unit. Flight plans for aircraft being operated under unit control are regulated by the unit concerned. These flight plans are submitted to the aviation unit's supported unit command post prior to execution of the flight. The progress and position of Army aircraft operating under unit control are monitored on the basis of local flight plans which contain the planned destination, route to be traveled, and estimated time of arrival. 8-13. Instrument Flight Conditions a. All flights conducted under instrument conditions and/or above specified coordinating altitudes are under the positive control of an air traffic regulating agency from takeoff to landing. This control is initiated when a flight plan is filed with an air traffic regulating agency, either directly or through the facilities of an instrumented airfield. It consists of flight FM 1-15 following, holding instructions, terminal guidance, approach clearance, and any special instructions or in-flight advisories which may be dictated by the tactical situation. b. Airfields, such as the division instrumented airfield, are capable of providing terminal control to incoming and outgoing aircraft. This control is provided by the unit's landing control personnel (furnished by the support command in the airmobile division), using the ground controlled approach radar and/or radio beacon sets. Terminal control is Section IV. VARIED 8-14. General Basic principles established in field service regulations apply to Army aviation operations in all environments (FM 100-5). When weather and terrain conditions are known in advance, or can be predicted with reasonable accuracy, planning enables a unit to take advantage of favorable factors and avoid or moderate the · effects of unfavorable conditions. Advance training of personnel for the specific operational environment is highly desirable, and special equipment for the environment is often necessary for efficient operation. Army' aircraft can operate in any geographical environment. Although weather and terrain may limit aircraft operations, the same conditions: will frequently limit the operations of nonaviation personnel and vehicles as well. This may result in an increase in the comparative effectiveness of aviation operations. Seldom is planning more essential than in preparing for Army, aviation operations in weather and terrain c~nditions approaching the extremes of environment: ! 8-15. Deserts a. General. Fairly flat sandy-to-rocky terrain, high winds, great temperature variations, and vast distances are among the characteristics which influence plans and operations in the desert. Sand and dust that pollute fuel and cause excessive wear to aircraft components also reveal enemy movements. The flat terrain that affords plentiful landing areas for Army coordinated with the air traffic coordination plan of the air traffic regulating agency. c. Procedures for the use of GCA radar or beacon approaches at instrumented airfields will be established and disseminated to aviation units operating in and around the appropriate airfield. These procedures will be forwarded to the air traffic regulating agency for distribution. Malfunctions of approach aids will be reported immediately to the regulating agency and all using units. Details of terminal control procedures are contained in FM 1-60. ENVIRONMENTS aircraft also enables the enemy to observe aircraft movements over great distances. Since dust clouds created by hovering helicopters reveal friendly positions, limit pilot visibility, and cause sand ingestion damage to aircraft components, care must be taken to limit hovering and to employ accepted techniques for takeoff and landing in dust or sand areas. Desert hills and depressions seldom limit the mobility of surface vehicles, and provide little in the way of natural concealment. Since the desert (contains little Qr nothing on which a military force can survive, increased transportation is required to supply men and machines with the necessities for survival and effectiveness. Also, more time is required to perform functions in the desert than in more temperate environments. Air and ground vehicles must be refueled with time-consuming care to prevent fuel contamination by sand. Maintenance is more time consuming because precautions must be taken to protect parts and assemblies from sand and dust. Heat and other factors may reduce the efficiency of personnel. Plans must allow for this increased time requirement in desert operations (FM 31-25). b. Survival. Desert conditions are among the most difficult in which the human body may be required to function, necessitating the most careful planning and execution of measures to keep troops in effective condition. The commander should rely heavily upon the advice of the surgeon relative to survival in the desert. The scarcity of water under conditions of 44 AGO 7121A • desert heat not only contributes to physical discomfort, but can hinder the accomplishment of the mission by rendering troops ineffective. The lack of shade or other shelter may make it necessary to schedule most activities at night in order to avoid or decrease exposure of personnel to excessive heat (FM 21-76). c. Maintenance. The unfavorable effects of the desert upon machines and equipment of all types, added to the difficulty of resupply of repair parts, greatly increases the importance of preventive maintenance. Sand probably causes more damage to machinery than any other single factor introduced by the desert environment. Air cleaners must be serviced often to prevent their becoming clogged. Engine cooling systems must be carefully maintained and temperature gauges frequentiy checked for evidence of overheating. Materiel must be protected by covers and moving parts inspected and cleaned often. Communications and other equipment must be protected from heat, sand, and the impact of great temperature fluctuations of the desert. Appropriate publications should be consulted for details on the care of specific items of equipment. d. Special Equipment. Desert temperatures, which can range from more than 100° F. in the day to below freezing at night, make it necessary to issue equipment designed to protect personnel from heat and cold. Camouflage paint, nets, and similar devices aid in avoiding enemy detection in terrain which offers little for con cealment of men and equipment. Aircraft and ground vehicles should carry survival kits and extra water. Basic navigation equipment such as maps and compasses should be included in the survival kits. Emergency radio sets, highly useful in expediting rescue operations, should be issued to each aircraft and, if available. to each ground vehicle operating in the desert environment. e. Tactics. Desert tactics are normal tactics modified to conform to desert conditions. Factors to be considered in making these modifications include the following: (1) Day. Desert weather is relatively predictable. This predictability is one of the commander's most useful tools in FM 1-15 planning desert operations to utilize the mobility provided by Army avia~ tion. Visibility, good during most of the day, is frequently reduced by dust storms during the afternoons. This reduced visibility can be used to conceal some operations. The heat contributes to increased density altitudes resulting in decreased aircraft range or payloads. (2) Night. Conditions in the desert at night are highly conducive to military operations. Dust storms are reduced in intensity and frequency; temperatures are seldom low enough to limit night operations. Visibility is usually good to excellent for both friendly and enemy observers. (3) Loading areas. Difficulty of concealment in the desert can be partially offset by the dispersal of loading areas as widely as practicable. (4) Navigation. Flat desert terrain increases the effective range of line-ofsight radio aids to navigation for aircraft operating at low altitudes. Pathfinders can be employed effectively to guide aircraft and ground vehicles to objective areas arid landing zones. ( 5) Deception. The difficulty of concealment and the increased capability for observation in the desert . combine to create a necessity for the fullest use of deceptive tactics and procedures such as false airfield traffic patterns, deceptive reconnaissance, and similar devices. (6) Resupply. Aviation is particularly useful in accomplishing resupply over the great distances of desert operations. This results in a requirement for increased aircraft operations. (7) Standing operating procedures. Procedures should be established to cover contingencies such as the advisability of personnel remaining with or abandoning downed aircraft in friendly or enemy areas, search and rescue, and AGO 7121A 45 FM 1-15 the recovery of damaged aircraft in the desert. 8-16. Mountains a. General. The limited size and number of landing zones, decreased air density at higher altitudes, erratic weather conditions, and steep slopes which can prohibit or severely limit the use of vehicles other than aircraft are among the characteristics which influence plans and operations in mountains. Helicopter payloads may be reduced when landings or takeoffs are planned in less dense air at higher altitudes. Fixed wing aircraft usually operate from airstrips located in or adjacent to mountains. Natural concealment is plentiful for personnel and equipment as well as for ground vehicles and parked aircraft, both friendly and enemy. Although mountain streams may supply sufficient water, practically all supplies must be moved into the area in which operations are conducted. Army aviation can be effectively employed in the supply and resupply of such mountain operations (FM 31-72). b. Survival. In operations below 8,000 feet, survival is not the critical problem found in more extreme environments. Mountain operations above 8,000 feet are subject to subfreezing temperatures, especially at night, and personnel are generally less effective in .the rarefied mountain air until they have completed an acclimatization period of about 14 days (FM 21-75). Army flight crews operating at mountain altitudes will require oxygen in accordance with AR 95-1. c. Maintenance. Aircraft maintenance problems peculiar to mountain operations are primarily problems of supply and transportation. Abnormal engine wear will occur when helicopters are operated at maximum power settings for extended periods in order to overcome the decreased lift afforded by less dense mountain air. Normally, maintenance of aircraft and ground vehicles can best be conducted at sites adjoining the mountainous areas which can be supplied by surface transportation: ' d. Special Equipment. Special personal equipment needed for mountain operations includes warm clothing and sturdy, slipproof foot wear. Aircrews should carry with them on all ( flights sufficient personal equipment to enable ' them to survive and walk back to friendly lines in the event of forced landings. e. Tactics. Mountain tactics are normal tactics modified to conform to mountain environments. Factors to be considered in making these modifications include the following: (1) Day. Mountain weather is relatively unpredictable. It is often advisable to prepare alternate plans of action for use in the event of unexpected weather changes. Mountain air affords excellent visibility on clear days. Aerial observers can cover large areas of mountainous terrain from helicopters or fixed wing aircraft. Air currents over and adjoining mountain ridges require great caution on the part of flight crews. Downdrafts may cause aircraft to suddenly lose altitude and come dangerously close to mountain slopes. (2) Night. Mountainous terrain presents special consideration for night aircraft operations. Aircraft may operate effectively and safely singly or in pairs, but formation flights normally are undertaken only under optimum conditions. Ground observation is difficult even on moonlit nights because of heavy shadows, hence land navigation problems are magnified. Through the use of ground navigational aids and pathfinders, limited night operations by well-trained aviation and ground personnel are feasible. (3) Loading areas. It is usually possible to establish adequate loading areas in mountains especially for helicopter operations. Large-scale operations may require the use of multiple loading areas. Where practicable, loading areas should be established in favorable terrain where aircraft can be refueled, and personnel and equipment picked up for delivery to landing zones located in less accessible terrain. AGO 712IA FM 1-15 pass or a direction finding technique is neces (4) Navigation. Accurate maps are required for effective visual navigation sary. Water can usually be located, but must in mountainous environments. Navibe boiled or otherwise purified before drinking. gation by electronic means may be There is usually sufficient edible vegetation, or restr-icted by the line-of-sight characother source of food, to support a man trained teristics of many such systems. Pathin jungle survival (FM 21-76). finders can supply electronic or other c. Maintenance. Maintenance of all types of navigation aids near the objective equipment in the jungle is complicated by the area for use during an operation. hot humid atmosphere. Fabric, rubber, leather, (5) Deception. Deceptive landings, traffic and similar materials deteriorate rapidly. Unpatterns, and similar devices, likely to protected metal surfaces will soon rust or corbe observed by the enemy from the rode. Aircraft instruments and delicate comexcellent observation points provided munications equipment will become inoperative by the mountains, can be very effective unless properly stored. Optical lenses can be if carefully planned and executed. damaged by fungus and other growths promoted by the jungle atmosphere. Appropriate (6) Resupply. Army aircraft can accomplish resupply to troops located in publications should be consulted for details on the care of specific items of equipment. mountains in a small fraction of the time required by other forms of transd. Special Equipment. Electronic aids to portation. Airdrop, low level extracnavigation are particularly useful to aircrews tion, and airlanded deliveries can be because of the sameness of terrain which makes made to otherwise virtually inaccesup many jungle areas. Jungle survival kits sible points. should be carried in all aircraft being operated over these areas. Personal equipment should 8-17. Jungles include insect repellent, mosquito nets, and other protective gear. a. General. The limited number of access roads, the presence of many natural features e. Tactics. Jungle tactics are normal tactics providing concealment, and rapid deterioration modified to conform to jungle environments. of many items of equipment are among the Factors to be considered in making these modifications include the following: characteristics which influence plans and operations in the jungle. Dense jungles, usually (1) Day. Jungle weather is relatively presparsely inhabited, contain few or no roads dictable. Temperatures are high, difwhich are suitable for military vehicles. Heavy fering little with the seasons of the jungle growth and extensive swampy areas year. Heavy rainfall is to be expected make road construction difficult. Leafy overduring the rainy seasons to which head foliage can completely shield the jungle most jungles are subject. Most jungle floor from observation from above. Occasional terrain is very rugged, with deep clearings afford helicopter landing areas; runvalleys and steep ridges alternating. ways for fixed wing aircraft may have to be The combination of heavy rainfall and hacked out of the jungle (FM 31-30). Men and uneven terrain creates numerous equipment required to prepare jungle landing rivers and streams. As jungles are pads may be lowered from hovering helicopters located near the equator; days and by approved rappelling techniques and other nights are about equal in length and devices. vary little with the seasons of the year. Jungle fog and rain can be pre b. Survival. The jungle environment presents dicted with considerable accuracy and a far smaller threat to survival than deserts and cold weather areas. Navigation is often operations can be planned to take adcomplicated by the many restrictions to long vantage of these weather factors for range observation from the jungle floor. A com-concealment of aircraft while en route AGO 7121A 47 FM 1-15 to objective areas as well as while devised should be used in jungle opera(_f conducting other missions. Turbulence tions. just above treetop level can be severe (6) Resupply. Aerial resupply in the enough to interfere with nap-of-thejungle can be accomplished with lessearth flying. Some jungles contain chance of enemy ambush or intersufficient landing areas for rotary and ference than resupply by use of sur fixed wing aircraft; others are so face transportation. Preselection ofdense they require prior selection landing zones and loading areas andand/or preparation of landing areas coordination with supplied units arefor helicopters. especially important to prevent sup (2) Night. Formation flying is very diffiplies from falling into enemy hands.cult over the jungle at night except (7) Standing operating procedures. Proce under the very best conditions of dures should be established to covermoonlight, or when lights are used to contingencies such as the advisabilitymaintain aircraft separation. Pathof personnel remaining with or abanfinders and electronic navigation dedoning downed aircraft in friendly orvices can increase the night capability enemy areas, search and rescue, andof Army aircraft in jungle operations. the recovery of damaged aircraft in (3) Landing zones. Security of jungle landthe jungle. ing zones is very important, partic ularly when the enemy uses raids as 8-18. Cold Weather a means of obtaining supplies. Also,the jungle offers many opportunities a. General. Snow and ice, high winds, exfor ambush of these zones if not protreme cold, variable visibility conditions, limtected by troops or located in secure ited or nonexistent communications, and lackareas. of food and shelter are among the characteristics which influence plans and operations in ( ( 4) Navigation. Tree-covered jungle areas, the cold weather environment. As in most exoften extending for many miles, may tremes of environment, cold areas contain little contain little or nothing for use asvisual navigational checkpoints. This to support military operations. Many items of is especially significant when flights equipment deteriorate rapidly or otherwise are conducted at low levels without become inoperative in extreme cold. It may be an aircraft being operated at a higher necessary to remove oil from aircraft after altitude to assist in navigation. Eleceach flight, store it in a warm place, and retronic aids are very useful in navigaplace it before the next flight. Batteries fortion over the jungle. aircraft and ground vehicles often requiresimilar treatment. Such operations take time. (5) Deception. Personnel operating in the The increased time required for the perform jungle can see aircraft flying overheadmuch more readily than persons flying ance of necessary functions must be considered overhead can see the jungle floor. Dein planning cold weather operations (FM 3171). tailed reconnaissance of a given jungfe area can alert the enemy to the fact b. Survival. When fuel for fire can be found, that the area is of interest to the aerial ice or snow can be melted for drinking water. observers. Deceptive reconnaissance of Food is more likely to be a serious problem. several areas can decrease the enemy's A man not trained in survival will soon suc chances of predicting the location of cumb to the extreme cold if deprived of facili the objective area or area of interest. ties for protecting himself from the environ All deceptive tactics which can be ment (FM 21-76). 48 AGO 7121A c FM 1-15 the day. This is because of the diffi c. Maintenance. Maintenance of all types of equipment becomes one of the most important, culty of concealment from enemy oband most difficult, functions to be accomplished servers during daytime operations in in cold weather. The greatest problem in mainperiods of good visibility. Except taining aircraft will often be that of preparing during periods of optimum visibility, them for flight. Once airborne, aircraft perflight operations in polar areas will be limited largely to those ·in which formance is likely to be very good because of electronic navigation aids can be em the decrease in density altitude problems enployed. countered in cold weather as compared to those (3) Landing zornes. Landing zones forat similar altitudes in deserts and other warm helicopters and ski-equipped airenvironments. planes are plentiful in most cold d. Special Equipment. Personnel require areas. Frozen lakes provide good special clothing, gloves, and shelters in order landing zones for both types of airto remain effective in the cold environment. craft. Firm snow and ice also make Aircraft winterization kits may include progood landing facilities. Hovering tective covers and skis ; special cold weather over loose snow should be held to an lubricants will be needed. Cold weather surabsolute minimum to avoid creating vival kits should be carried in all aircraft and the blinding snowswirls which may ground vehicles operating in the cold weather be caused by helicopter downwash. environment. Marker panels can enable both friendly and enemy observers to locate e. Tactics. Cold weather tactics are normal landing zones in snow and ice. tactics modified to conform to cold weather (4) Navigation. Magnetic variation mayenvironments. Factors to be considered in render magnetic compasses useless in making these modifications include the followpolar regions. Checkpoints, often not ing: plentiful under the best conditions, (1) Day. Snow covered areas may offer may be made unrecognizable by snowa lack of contrast with the sky which storms. Electronic aids to navigationcompletely obscures the horizon. Inwill greatly increase Army aviationstrument flight is therefore necessary, capabilities in cold environments. at times, on a clear day. Violent storms occur almost without warning. ( 5) Deception. Tracks left in the snow by The scarcity of weather observation personnel and vehicles can supply inposts in most cold weather areas limformation to enemy observers. Deceptive tracks and installations may its the warning of such storms. Dark be used to confuse such observers. objects stand out clearly against a snow and ice background, and can be seen Deceptive reconnaissance and similar from a great distance during periods ruses, adapted to cold weather environment, may be highly effective. of good visibility. This advantage is available to both friendly and enemy (6) Resupply. Resupply requirements are observers. Severe storms prohibit magnified by the fact that polar areas most ground and flight operations, esafford little upon which a military pecially in mountain areas of the cold force can survive. Track vehicles can environment. operate over firm snow and ice, air (2) Night. Ground operations in cold craft can also be very useful in acweather areas may be more successcomplishing resupply in the cold fully conducted at night than during weather environment. AGO 7121A 49 FM 1-15 (7) Standing operating procedures. Proabandoning downed aircraft, searchcedures should be established to covercontingencies such as the advisability and rescue, and the recovery of dam c of personnel remaining with or aged aircraft in cold weather. 50 AGO 71Z1A FM 1-15 CHAPTER 9 COMMUNICATIONS Section I. GENERAL technical control and coordination of communi 9-1. Areas of Responsibility cations within a command. The instructions in a. The battalion commander is responsible clude items subject to frequent change covering for communications within the battalion, and codes and ciphers, radio call signs and frequenfor the battalion functioning as part of the cies, telephone directory, and visual and sound next higher unit's communications system. The signals. Current items are listed in the index tocommunications system provides the comthe SOL When authorized, the battalion signalmander with parallel means of communications officer prepares necessary extracts from the for efficient command, control, and administra supported or assigned higher unit's SOl. tion of his unit. b. Standing Signal Instructions (SSI). b. The signal officer advises the commander Standing signal instructions contain items ofand staff on matters pertaining to communicaoperational data not subject to frequent changetions and supervises the battalion communicaand instructions for use of the SOl. They aretions section. For a detailed list of duties of the prepared by a division signal officer, or highersignal officer, see chapter 4. echelon, and may be issued as a separate pub c. The responsibility for communications lication or consolidated in the SOL --___/ among units is subject to the following general c. Standing Operating Procedures (SOP). rules (FM 24-1) : The communications portion of the battalion(1) The higher unit is responsible for SOP is a set of instructions prescribing theestablishing communications with the manner in which routine jobs are accomplishedlower unit (including attached units). within the unit in the absence of other instruc(2) A unit supporting another unit estabtions. In the battalion, the SOP is based on, andlishes communications with the sup ported unit. conforms to, that of the higher unit to which assigned or being supported. The battalion sig (3) The unit on the left normally estabnal officer prepares the communications portionlishes and maintains lateral communiof the battalion SOP for the commander's ap cations with the adjacent unit to its right. proval. An SOP is particularly applicable to the communications section because many of its 9-2. Signal Orders operations are the same, regardless of the a. Signal Operation Instructions (SO/). The employment. FM 24-16 contains a detailed disSOl is a type of combat order issued for the cussion of signal orders. Section II. COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM army area communications system, an organic 9-3. General The signal system of a field army includes command communications system for each an army command communications system, an corps, and an organic communications system ) / 51 AGO 7121A FM 1-15 for each division and other separate units cussion of airborne division communications within the field army. systems. a. The arrpy command communications sysf. The airmobile division has only a com tem provides a command signal center at each mand type signal system. echelon of field army headquarters and means g. Divisional aviation battalions are includedof communications to each major subordinate in the command communications system of parcommand. ent divisions. For details of communications for b. The field army area communications sysdivisional aviation battalions, see paragraphs tem is composed of a network of area signal 9-7 and 9-8. Nondivisional aviation battalions centers interconnected by trunk circuits under normally are tied into the nearest area signal centralized control. Each signal center provides center to supplement their organic means for signal facilities for support to units and activexternal communications. The area signal cen ities within a specifically assigned geographic ter may be either a part of the army area area of responsibility. This system covers the system or a division area system depending area from army rear boundary, forward to upon location of the aviation battalion. Signal division rear boundaries to include corps areas. center personnel provide wire lines to the bat c. The corps command signal communicatalion as directed by higher headquarters to tions system provides communications facilities furnish sufficient circuits through the area sys from corps headquarters to corps troops and astem to meet the needs of the battalion. signed or attached divisions. The corps com munications system is provided in addition to 9-4. Signal Center the portion of the field army area system which A signal center is a groupment of signal operates within the corps boundaries. communications facilities installed, operated, d. Standard divisions have both a command and maintained by a signal corps unit. Each and an area communications system. The comsignal center normally provides the following: mand system provides command signal centers communications center, switching central, tech for each echelon of division headquarters and nical control center, and appropriate external support command as well as means of communimeans of communications. There are two types cations to each major subordinate command. of signal centers-command signal centers and The area system is composed of area signal area signal centers. centers normally located in brigade rear areas a,. A command signal center provides com to support units and activities within a specificmunications support to a specific command ally assigned geographic area of resp~nsibility. headquarters ·and to units located in its im FM 11-50 contains a detailed discussion of mediate vicinity. division communications systems. b. An area"signal center provides communi e. Airborne divisions basically have only one cations support, wtihin its geographical area of type communications system-an area type responsibility, to all units requiring signal cen which is command oriented; that is, area signal ter facilities to supplement their organic means centers are in direct support of specific suborfor external communications to higher, subordidinate units. FM 11-57 contains a detailed dis-nate, or adjacent units. Section Ill. AVIATION BATTALION COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS 9-5. Battalion Communications Personnel munications section which is organized as dis a. Battalion Communications Section. The cussed below : battalion ground communications system is in(1) The communications chief assists the stalled, operated, and maintained by the com-signal officer by directly supervising ( 52 AGO 7121A • FM 1-15 the enlisted men of the section in the (2) The general support company has an assigned switchboard operator, a wireinstallation, operation, and mainte nance of the battalion communicaman, and radio teletypewriter oper tions and electronic navigation sysators. Selected personnel of the company may be further trained to oper tems. ate organic radio sets and to assist (2) Radio equipment repairmen perform in manning the unit switchboard. organizational maintenance by in specting, testing, and repairing signal equipment assigned to the battalion. 9-6. Means of Communications They maintain the authorized level of Signal communications include all means of repair parts. conveying information of any kind from one (3) The radio/teletypewriter team installs person or place to another except by direct and operates the radio/teletypewriter conversation and mail. The means of communiset, receives and transmits messages, cations ~vailable to the aviation battalion are and establishes and posts station logs. wire, radio, messenger, and visual and sound (4) The switchboard operator/field wiresignals. The compos.ition of the means. depends on the personnel, equipment, and transporta man team installs, operates, and maintains the switchboard. This team, tion provided by the TOE and by the higher with the assistance of sections having commander. The various means of communica tions have different capabilities and limitaorganic telephones, installs the battions. They ~re employed so that they completalion wire system. ment each other. Placing entire dependence (5) The landing control operator team upon any one means should be avoided. provides ground controlled approach (GCA) radar assistance for letdown 9-7. Battalion Wire Communications and landing approach of aircraft under instrument" conditions. The Figure 9-1 illustrates the type wire system team installs the GCA radar at the utilized by divisional aviation battalions. airfield. In the airborne division aviaa. The divisional aviation battalion normally tion battalion, this team is not part of is provided with a direct support carrier and the communications section. radio relay team from the division signal bat (6) The control tower operator team montalion for access into the division command itors and coordinates aircraft arrivals multichannel network. This multichannel link and departures on a 24-hour basis. In provides the external telephone and teletypethe airborne division aviation batwriter communications required by the aviatalion, this team is not a part of the tion battalion which consists of a minimum communications section. of (7) The message center team processes . (1) A sole user telephone circuit between incoming and outgoing messages on a the ba1ttalion and airfield operations center and the G2/G3 air element at24-hour basis. the division TOC. b. Airmobile and General Support Company. (2) Two common user telephone circuits (1) The airmobile company has an asbetween the aviation battalion switchsigned communications chief, avionics board and the division switchboard. electrical equipment repairmen, radio (3) A teletypewriter circuit from the mechanic, switchboard operator, and aviation battalion to the division telewireman. Selected personnel of tlie typewriter switching central. company may be further trained to operate organic radio sets and to man b. The battalion communications section, with the switchboard. assistance from the users, installs the internal AGO 7121A 53 FM 1-15 GEN SPT ( PLAT co co ACFT MAINT xo OP COMM MAINT OP COMM MAINT svc PLAT ONE CONSOLIDATED SWITCHBOARD (2 SB-22 STACKED, 29 LINES)MAY BE USED WHEN ALL THE BATTALION IS AT ONE LOCATION. WHEN COMPANY IS OPERATING AT EXTENDED DISTANCE FROM BATTALION THIS LINK MAY BE PROVIDED THROUGH THE DIVISION WIRE SYSTEM BY TIE-IN TO THE NEAREST SIGNAL CENTER. BN SWBDBN COMO SB-22/ TO DIY MAINS1/S4 PT MAINT MSG CEN AID STA NOTE 1: IN STANDARD DIVISIONS, THE SIGNAL LEGEND:BATTALION FURNISHES AN AN/MRC-69 (12 CHAN), --0 TELEPHONE SET TA-312/PTWHILE IN THE AIRBORNE DIVISION AN AN/MRC-6B -TELEPHONE LINE (4 CHAN) SET IS PROVIDED. ----TELETYPEWRITER LINENOTE 2: DIRECT CIRCUIT TO G3 AIR AT DTOC. ( Figure 9-1. Type wire system, aviation battalion, infantry division/airborne division. wire system for airfield and command post comradios normally are used as. an initial means of munications, and externally to other elements communications, particularly when other of the battalion as feasible. means such as wire or radio relay are unavailable or unsuitable. As other means become b. Nondivisional Aviation Battalions. Non available, the use of radio should be reduceddivisional aviation battalions and the aviation and radio, stations should be placed on standbygroup headquarters normally will be tied into or on listening silence as directed by the situathe nearest area signal center to provide the tion. Although radio nets are designated functelephone and teletypewriter circuits required tionally (command, intelligence, and the like),for command/control, air operation activities, traffic and other considerations frequently dicand service support functions. tate that the nets be combined and used for more than one type of traffic. Figures 9-2 and 9-8. Battalion Radio Nets 9-3 illustrate the type radio nets found in the a. General. Radio nets within the aviation aviation battalion infantry and airborne dibattalion headquarters and subordinate units visions, and the normal composition of each are primarily for organic communications to net. include communications between major bat b. Internal Radio Nets. The battalion's in talion units. A limited number of radio equipternal radio nets are described below: ments are provided for monitoring warning broadcast systems and for communications (1) Battalion comrnand net (FM-voice). with echelons above ba.ttalion. FM and AM This net provides the battalion com- AGO 7121A 54 I FM 1-15 BN COMO BN OP (S2/S3) BN COMM SEC BN XO l> < OIV OP/INTEL NET z: RATT 1 z: DIV WNG BCST NET o:J BN ATC NET n ::;::0 Cl z:rn -i CO COMO COMO CO OP COMO CO OP PFOR AIRMOBILE CO AIRMOBILE CO GS CO GS CO Figure 9-2. Type radio net, aviation battalion, infantry division. mander with a means for command space. Each aircraft has organic and control of the battalion. When reVHF-UHF radio equipment to enter quired by the tactical situation, logisthe net as specified by the SOP or as tical traffic may be passed over this otherwise required. net. The net control station (NCS) (4) Airmobile and general support com is normally the battalion operations pany radio nets. The airmobile comsection. pany and the general support company (2) Battalion operations net (SSE-voice). operate stations in the appropriateThis net is found only in the airborne battalion nets and they monitor adivision aviation battalion. All traffic higher headquarters warning broadof an operational nature is passed via cast net. In addition, each companythis net. The NCS is, normally the batestablishes the following nets for comtalion operations section. mand control of its subordinate ele (3) Battalion air traffio contro,l net ments and for logistical traffic. (UHF-voice). The operation sections of battalion headquarters and the (a) Company command net (FM voice). The NCS station is operated various comp·anies operate stations in this net for control of division air-by the company operations section. AGO 7121A 55 FM 1-15 DIV OP/INTEL NET DIV ADMIN/LOG NET PATHFINDERS PFDR NET FM Figure 9-3. Type radio net, aviation battalion, airborne division. (b) Platoon command net (FM-voice). Each of the three airlift platoons of the airmobile company and the general support plllltoon of the general support company maintain such a net for internal command and control. c. External Radio Nets. External radio nets in which the battalion operates are described below. (1) Division command net (FM-voice). This net is used by the division commander for command and operational control and to issue orders to his staff and to commanders of certain immediate subordinate units. In an airborne division, this net is designated an operations-intelligence net since the airborne division commander has an AM/SSB voice command net. (2) Division command net (AM-SSEvoice). Currently, this net is found only in the airborne and airmobile divisions. It serves the same function as the FM command net described above. (3) Division operatio'YIJS inteUigenoo net (RATT No. 1). This net is used to control operations and intelligence functions within the division. The communications section of the aviation battalion, infantry division, has organic equipment to operate a station in this net. The aviation battalion, AGO 7121A airborne division, is furnished a direct support RATT team by the division signal battalion for operation in this net. (4) Division administrative-logistics net (RATT No. 2). This net is used as a means of passing administrative and logistics traffic between the division support command and certain units of the division. The aviation battalion, .infantry division, does not operate in this net; however, the aviation battalion, airborne division, is furnished a direct support RATT team by the division sign·aJ battalion for operation in this net. (5) Division warning broadcast net (AMvoice). The purpose of this net is to broadcast information concerning CBR attacks, nuclear strikes, and enemy air activity. The aviation battalion and each company have organic receivers to provide the capability to monitor this net. 9-9. Alternate Means of Communications Various other means of communications will be used when the primary wire and/or radio FM 1-15 means are not available or when other means c·a.n best serve the purpose. a. Messenger. Messenger is often the most secure means of communication. Messenger service is flexible and reliable. Messengers are the only means available within the battalion for transmitting maps and documents. Messengers are used when security dictates or when they can deliver a message fa~Ster than it can be delivered by electrical means.. Scheduled messenger service to higher headquarters normally is provided by the division messenger service. b. Visual Signals. Visual signals. are transmitted by flags, lights, pyrotechnics, panels and arm-and-hand signals.. They are suitable for transmitting prearranged messages rapidly over short distances. Visual signals are easily misunderstood and are vulnerable to interception. c. Sound Signals. Sound signals are transmitted by whistles., weapons, and other noise. making devices. They are used primarily to attract attention, transmit p·rearranged messages, and spread alarms, and are kept simple to prevent misunderstanding. They are a rapid means of communication over short distances. Section IV. COMMUNICATIONS SECURITY 9-1 0. General Communications security is the protection resulting from all measures designed and used to prevent or delay unauthorized persons gaining information of military value from friendly communications sources. The three elements of communications security are physical, cryptographic, and transmission security. Each commander is responsible for communications security in his unit. Communications security orders and regulations must be understood and practiced by everyone concerned with communications. In the choice of communications means, requirements. for both security and speed must be considered. Regulations require that classified messages be encrypted when transmitted over electrical means. However, in actual com- AGO 7121A bat operations, the commander or his authorized representatives may authorize classified messages other than TOP SECRET (TOP SECRET messages. will NEVER be transmitted in the clear over electrical means, AR 380-51) to be sent in clear text when the two following conditions exist at the same time: a. When there is insufficient time for encrypting, and b. When the enemy will not have time to a(!t upon the information contained in the message. 9-11. Physical Security Physical security consists of the physical means taken to safeguard classified communications equipment and materials from access by FM 1-15 unauthorized persons. Special attention must be given to SSl/SOl items and cryptomaterial, including their production, distribution, storage, and final disposition when superseded or no longer needed. A complete SOl item should never be taken forward of the battalion command post. SOl extracts carried in Army aircraft pertain only to material essential to that particular operaJtion or flight. They are pre-. pared so that they can be destroyed easily. When an SOl item or extract is comp·romised, the fact must be reported and the item changed immediately. SOP prescribes emergency destruction of equipment and classified documents to prevent capture and enemy use. Classified material and equipment caocried in aircraft will be destroyed if the aircraft is forced down and capture is imminent. 9-12. Cryptosecurity Cryptosecurity is that component of communications security which results from the provision of technically sound cryptosystems and their proper use (AR 380-40 and AR 38041). Use of unauthorized. cryptographic systerns is strictly forbidden under the principle ( that a weak code or cipher is. worse than none. \ Time spent in encrypting gives a high return in security. Cryptographic equipment is mailable for use with teletypewriter systems to provide automatic enciphering and deciphering. 9-13. Transmission Security Transmission security includes all measures to protect transmissions from interception, traffic analysis, and imitative deception. Radio is particularly susceptible to· interception and resulting traffic analysis, direction finding, jamming, and deception by imitative transmissions. Radio is the most insecure means of communication. Prescribed radio-telephone procedures and authentication systems must be employed to protect radio transmissions. The authentication system of tactical air-ground communications is either that of the major command to which the aircraft aoce organic or that of the unit being supported. Message authentication is extremely important in aircraft radio relay operations and must be included in all SOL c c AGO 7121A FM 1-15 CHAPTER 10 ADMINISTRATIVE MOVEMENTS 1 / I Section I. 10-1. Introduction An administrative movement is a movement in which troops and vehicles are arranged to expedite their movement and conserve time and energy when no enemy interference, except by air, is anticipated. Unlike tactical troop movements in which adaptation to the tactical situation is. the primary consideration, administrative movements are concerned with the economical and efficient use of all facilities at the commander's disposal. Administrative movements by road in an internal defense/ development environment will be rare, especially during phase II or III insurgency. Convoys must be prepared to· conduct counteram- Section II. PLANNING AND 10-3. Standing Operating Procedures Many of the details relating to administrative movements, including the organization and asembly of units, control and coordination of the unit during movement, and deployment of units at the destination, should be included in the unit SOP. Consideration should be given to differences in speed of the types of aircraft and ground vehicles to be used. SOP should be revised as necessary to reflect experience gained from training for movements as well as from actual movements. 10-4. Planning The planning of an administrative move follows logical channels starting with the determination of who and what is to be moved, what transportation means are available with which to make the move, the air and ground AGO 7121A GENERAL bush actions. Armed aerial escort is an effective ambush deterrent and counterambush weapon. 10-2. Methods of Movement Organic aircraft and ground vehicles normally are used in the accomplishment of aviation battalion movements. Additional vehicles may be attached for the move. Foot, rail, and water may also be used. Moves utilizing USAF aircraft are discussed in FM 101-10-series. Whatever the method or methods employed, detailed planning and control are necessary if the battalion is to reach its destination at the desired time and in an effective condition. PREPARING FOR MOVEMENTS routes to be used, and the destination of the move. These determinations are then expanded to include the organization of the personnel and equipment to be moved, and the best method of utilizing the available means. Resupply and other requirements imposed by the distance to be covered, characteristics of the route, and the nature of the destination are also matters to be considered. 10-5. Training Training for administrative moves should cover planning and p·reparation for the move and the conduct of the move. In addition to increasing the ability of the battalion to conduct moves efficiently, the experience gained from these exercises p•rovides data as to the rates of march for the air and ground columns, FM 1-15 resupply requirements, and other factors for incorporation in the SOP. 10-6. Warning Order Normally, the battalion commander will issue a warning order to alert the units of the expected movement to pro·vide an opportunity for making advance preparations. The warning order should contain as much information concerning the departure time for each element, purpose of the operation, and the destination as circumstances and security procedures permit. 10-7. Route Reconnaissance Party Organic aircraft may be used to conduct reconnaissance of the route being considered for the movement. This reconna.issance should include the reporting of information on the condition of the route and its suitability to the type of vehicles to be used, the distance to the destination, map errors, areas of possible concealment from which an ambush might be conducted, and the nature of the destination. It may be necessary for a ground party to. conduct a more detailed investigaltion of specific conditions reported by aerial observers, or for an engineer unit to make repairs to bridges and roadways along the route. Aerial re~onnaissance of the route being traveled should be continued throughout the movement to detect and report to the commander any change in conditions which may influence the conduct of the opel'la.tion. 10-8. Quartering Party The quartering party proceeds to· the destination in advance of the battalion to determine the need for security measures and to· arrange for the positioning of units of the battalion as they arrive in the area. 10-9. Trail Parties a. Aerial. Aircraft participating in the movement are followed by an aerial trail party. This party includes maintenance personnel and equipment to assist aircraft experiencing (difficulty prior to or during takeoff and downed aircraft forced to leave formation because of mechanical difficulties en route. Where aircraft are divided into serials, possibly to allow for the speed differentials of different type aircraft, it may be necessary to provide a trail party for each serial. b. Motor. The motor trail party is usually the last ground element to depart the vacated area. It follows the motor column to warn traffic approaching from the rear, to prevent straggling, and to dispose of disabled vehicles. If the motor column is divided into serials, consideration is given to providing a trail party for each serial. 10-10. Column Organization a. Aerial. The aerial column is organized primarily to insure an efficient move and to cause the aircraft to reach the destination at the desired time. Where aircraft involved are different types, and operate at different flight speeds, consideration should be given to dividing the aircraft into serials based on flight speeds. It may be advisable to use different flight routes for different types of aircraft to simplify traffic problems such as those experienced when faster aircraft overtake slower aircraft. Consideration must also be given to traffic problems caused by the simultaneous arrival at the destination of more aircraft than can be efficiently landed and dispersed. b. Motor. The motor column is organized primarily to insure an efficient move and to cause vehicles to reach the destination at the desired time. Vehicles can be kept in close column by adapting the march rate to the speed of the slowest element of the column. Vehicles can be divided into serials if it is desired to utilize their speed differentials by dispatching faster vehicles in the first serial to prevent their being delayed by slower vehicles. AGO 7121A FM 1-15 Section Ill. MOTOR MOVEMENT 10-11. General Aviation battalions are largely mobile through use of organic air and motor vehicles. That part of an aviation battalion not moved by aircraft normally is moved by motor vehicles. The proportion of a movement accomplished by motor vehicles will vary with the type aircraft organic to the battalion and with any nonorgani~ transportation made available for the move. The environment of operations influences the lift capability of aircraft and can impose a greater or lesser requirement than expected upon motor transport. In some cases aircraft can make two or more trips while motor vehicles make one trip, having the effect of increasing the mobility of the unit. FM 5535 contains information concerning motor transport operations. 10-12. Nonorganic Transportation Standing operating procedures will be established in advance to provide information needed for requesting nonorganic motor transportation. The SOP should contain a sample request for motor transportation and details as to the number of passengers or the tonnage and type of cargo to be transported. Usually, specific types of motor vehicles will be selected by the motor transport officer to meet the requirement. The battalion commander will be informed of the number and type of motor vehicles to be assigned, the regulating point, and the time at which vehicles will be placed under his control. 10-13. Supervision of the Column The commander utilizes the superior range or vision made available by organic aircraft to aid in supervision of the column during movement. Supervision is accomplished through information relayed from aerial observers to the commander, or the commander may observe the column from the air and issue instructions by use of aircraft radio. Panels, signal lights, and • AGO 7121A similar devices will aid aerial observers in identifying ground vehicles. 10-14. Time Interval Time gap (time interval) is the interval, expressed in time, between the rear of any component of the column and the front of any following component as they pass a given point. This interval, adaptable to aircraft and ground vehicles, is especially useful in preventing excessive separation of elements of the column or a pileup of ground vehicles following too closely behind an element which is slowed or stopped by a terrain feature or other circumstance. 10-15. Halts En route halts during administrative motor movements are usually scheduled in the movement order or in the SOP. All units halt simultaneously at the specified time or upon receipt of a prearranged signal. A similar procedure is used to resume the movement. Halts allow time for motor maintenance, rest, and feeding. Details may be posted to watch for hostile aircraft or other threats during halts, and vehicles will be dispersed as required by the situation. 10-16. Communications During the Move Radio is usually the best means of communication during administrative motor movements in which the necessary equipment is available and security conditions permit. Visual signals by use of panels, flags, lights, arm-and-hand, and similar devices are often useful. Whistles, vehicle horns, and other audio signals are useful if distances between elements are not great. Messengers can deliver written or oral instructions during the move. Whatever the communications method used, the efficiency of administrative motor movements can be increased by prearrangement of signals in standing operating procedures . FM 1-15 Section IV. RAIL, AIR, AND WATER MOVEMENT 10-17. Rail 10-18. Air a. The division transportation officer coordinates the movement by rail with appropriate transportation agencies. The unit being moved and the transportation office which has transportation responsibility for the area in which the move originates are jointly responsible for the movement of troops and equipment by rail. Although aviation battalions are relatively mobile using organic aircraft and ground vehicles, rail is the most efficient method of accomplishing or supplementing some administrative moves. A move to a port of embarkation, preparatory to departing the continental United States, is an example of a move in which rail can be the most efficient method of movement. b. Preparations for the rail movement of an aviation battalion are coordinated with the local transportation agency. The unit being moved prepares and implements plans for the move in accordance with directives, and furnishes the transportation agency with details of the personnel and equipment to be moved. The division transportation officer advises on matters relating to the rail movement including the transportation portion of the training program. During the training and alert phases, key personnel are trained in the execution of their duties during the movement, and all personnel and equipment are made ready for the move. The order directing the movement will specify the time and place at which the unit will entrain. c. An advance party may be sent to the destination to make arrangements for the unloading of personnel and equipment and to establish assembly areas at the new location. While the train is en route, it is controlled and operated by the railroad personnel responsible. The troop commander, appointed by the battalion commander, is responsible for the provision of intermediate services, the safety and discipline of personnel and the care of equipment while en route. Details on rail movements are contained in FM 101-5 and applicable field manuals of the 55-series. ' a. The planning and preparation for movement of an aviation battalion by U.S. Air Force aircraft is similar to that conducted by other means. The unit being moved and the transportation office which has transportation responsibility for the area in which the move originates are jointly responsible for the movement. In addition to the obvious advantage of speE)d of travel offered by aircraft, it may be possible for the transport aircraft to land at the location of the unit to be transported and move the unit directly to the ultimate destination. This procedure, when practicable, eliminates the move from the unit's location to the port of embarkation. b. Training and other preparations for air movement should stress the importance of being ready to load personnel and equipment without delaying the transport aircraft assigned to accomplish the move. Preparations for the move must include dismantling equipment, as necessary, to conform to dimensions of the aircraft. c. The flight will be conducted by Air Force personnel. The unit being moved is responsible for the loading, en route supervision, and unloading of personnel and equipment. Equipment to be airdropped from Air Force aircraft is delivered to the aircraft tailgate by the Army unit concerned and loaded aboard the aircraft by Air Force personnel. FM 57-35 contains information on airmobile operations. 10-19. Water a. Water transport is often used to accomplish the movement of Army units to oversea destinations. The unit being moved and the transportation office which has transportation responsibility for the area in which the move originates are jointly responsible for the movement. The U.S. Navy operates or supervises the operation of vessels used for such movements. b. The battalion commander, in coordination with the transportation officer, prepares plans for loading and unloading personnel and equip- AGO 7121A • ( ' • FM 1-15 ment in accordance with established policies as contained in FM 101-5. Preparations for movement by water transportation must include necessary protective devices to prevent salt air or water damage to equipment, especially delicate communications and similar equipment. c. While the ship is en route, it is controlled and operated by the shipping or Navy personnel. The unit being moved is responsible for the personnel and equipment being transported. As this type of transportation often consumes a relatively great amount of time, problems of troop morale and discipline may arise. The battalion commander is responsible for the safety and discipline of personnel, training as facilities permit, and the care of equipment while en route. Details on water movement are contained in FM 101-5 and applicable field manuals of the 55-series. AGO 7121A FM 1-15 CHAPTER 11 TRAINING 11-1. General The board training principles and policies to be used by all commanders are set forth in AR 350-1. Training in each unit and organization of the Army will be that training required for the effective performance of the mission. The battalion operations and training officer (83) prepares the battalion training program and assists the commander in its implementation. Company commanders are responsible for training their companies in accordance with the battalion program. Although training is divided into several phases and categories, training in the battalion is a continuing process which moves from one phase to another without fixed starting or stopping points. 11-2. Training Publications Army training programs (ATP) prescribe a general subject outline of training to be conducted by operational units and outline the minimum essential training for units and individuals. ATP also prescribe the subjects, the number of hours to be devoted to each subject, and essential study references and training aids which apply to the training of specific Army units. Smaller units, for which no ATP is available, may use applicable portions of ATP of larger units. Army subject schedules (ASubjScd) provide detailed guidance to instructors for the preparation of lesson plans and scheduling of periods of instruction for the conduct of training in a particular subject as outlined in ATP. FM 21-5 and FM 21-6 contain basic guidance for Army training. Other military publications available for training purposes are listed in DA Pam 310-3. 11-3. Individual Training a. Individual training is that training which develops the skills and knowledge necessary to enable a soldier to participate as an effective member of a unit engaged in combat. b. Individual training is provided in (1) Basic combat training centers. (2) Advanced individual training centers. (3) Army schools. ( 4) Army units. This training, usually onthe-job training, is given in the unit when formal training in Army training centers and schools is not available. On-the-job training for the award of initial military occupational specialties (MOS) is presented only as a last resort. However, on-the-job training in the unit provides an invaluable method of developing and expanding skills in MOS obtained in Army schools and training centers. Maintenance personnel, for instance, can be given an opportunity to adapt their skills to the diversities of aviation maintenance in the operational environment provided by the aviation battalion and its elements. Officer and warrant officer personnel of the aviation battalion can maintain their aviator qualifications as well as their proficiency in both tactical and nontactical flying. Each individual officer must be competent to perform duties in aviation and in his career branch. Maintenance of this dual qualification demands the full energy and dedication of the individual. To this end, the officer must seek and take advantage of assignments and opportunities which contribute to his development as a professional Army officer. Information of the Army aviation officer career program is contained in AR 600-105. • AGO 7121A FM 1-15 11-4. Unit Training a. Unit training stresses the consolidation of individual skills to achieve an effective unit capability. This training demonstrates the importance of the contribution made by each individual to the effectiveness of the unit. It is usually conducted in the field under conditions which the unit will be likely to encounter in combat. b. Basic unit training is largely confined to company and smaller unit tactics. This training further develops all individual skills and adapts these skills to requirements of the unit. c. Advanced unit training in the aviation battalion is usually conducted at the battalion level. It deals with the unit's tactical proficiency as demonstrated during training with supported units. Much of the advanced unit training should be conducted in bivouac under simulated tactical conditions. Particular attention will be given to- ( 1) Dispersion. (2) Concealment. (3) Local security. ( 4) CBR operations and protection measures. (5) Individual and unit protective measures against nuclear weapons effects. ( 6) Evasion and escape techniques for aircrew members. (7) Formation flying. (8) Night operations. 11-5. Field Exercises and Maneuvers Field exercises make up the last phase of the formal Army training program (FM 1055) . A TP 20-5 outlines the Army training program for field exercises and maneuvers. This phase provides opportunity for brigades and larger units and supporting forces to exercise as a fully integrated combined arms team. Field exercises are conducted under similar war conditions in which troops and armament of one side are actually present, while those of the other side may be imaginary. In field maneuvers, troops and armament of both sides are present in whole or in part. In this training, the aviation battalion or its subordinate elements are employed in support of the various type units with which the battalion is expected to operate under tactical conditions. Field exercises and maneuvers reflect all functions performed by the unit and require maximum teamwork performed on a 24-hour basis. Exercises and maneuvers will include integrated CBR training in all phases commensurate with the training objective. They will include- a. Performance of all normal mission capabilities. b. Signal communications, including transmission security and alternate means of communication. c. Liaison. d. Intelligence stressing the accurate, prompt, and complete reporting of information. e. Evasion and escape. f. Individual and unit protective and defensive measures (active and passive), to include use of demolitions, camouflage and concealment, and airfield perimeter defense. g. Unit action against air, airborne, and ground attack including means of combating guerrillas and infiltrators. h. Route reconnaissance. i. March discipline and convoy organization and regulation. j. Organizational maintenance. k. Bivouac procedures, including fi.eld messing and sanitation. l. Emergency medical treatment for the sick and injured, and evacuation. m. Supply procedures and leadership, cadre, and key specialist training. n. An evaluation and critique aimed at the correction of all deficiencies noted during the exercises. 11-6. Operational Readiness Training Operational readiness training is that training undertaken by units which have completed the formal phases of training and which are AGO 7121A J _j~ -- assigned the responsibility for maintaining the highest possible state of combat proficiency in order to accomplish operational missions. This training employs a simulated plan of operation, of the same or greater complexity than an actual plan of operation, to provide exercises in unit response to operational orders. The objectives of operational readiness training are to a. Correct deficiencies discovered in previous training. b. Develop and maintain, with all means available, a satisfactory state of readiness for operational missions to include special operations in various environments. c. Prepare to deploy to the field for extended combat operations on short notice. 11-7. Training With Other Units Training with other units provides training for the aviation battalion, or its elements, in FM 1-15 the operational support role. During such training, supported units gain experience in utilizing and adapting to aviation support. Such integrated training is particularly suited to Army aviation units whose elements are usually decentralized and placed in support of other units. Training with host country units in airmobile operations is necessary for both the indigenous forces and the supporting aviation units. 11-8. Army Training Tests (ATT) Army training tests provide guidance for testing to evaluate the ability of a unit to perform its assigned mission, and to evaluate the ability of the soldier to perform the minimum skills requisite to success in battle. After completion of an A TP, an ATT is administered to determine the extent to which the ATP was effective. Each ATT is related directly to an ATP or to a portion of an ATP. AGO 7121A / ) 67 FM 1-15 PART THREE AVIATION GROUP, AIRMOBILE DIVISION CHAPTER 12 INTRODUCTION 12-1. General The aviation group (TOE 1-100T) is a tactical support unit designed to provide combat and combat service support, airlift of personnel and materiel, aerial observation and surveillance, and general aviation support required by the airmobile division. The group is capable of accepting additional aviation attachments from corps or army sources. 12-2. Mission The mission of the aviation group is to provide aviation support for the airmobile division. The group also provides aviation special staff personnel for the airmobile division headquarters. 12--3. Composition The composition of the aviation group, airmobile division, is shown in figure 12-1. 12-4. Major Elements Major elements of the aviation group are as follows: a. Headquarters and Headquarters Company. The headquarters and headquarters company provides aviation special staff personnel for the airmobile division headquarters, command and staff support for the aviation group, and pathfinder and terminal approach support for subordinate and attached units. ·Chapter 15 shows the organization of this company. b. General Support Aviation Company. The general support aviation company provides light observation and utility helicopters to support divisional units which do not possess organic aircraft. It also provides medium observation aircraft for electronic, photo, and visual reconnaissance. See chapter 16 for the organization of the company. AVN GP I I l I I HQ AND HQ GEN SPT AVN ASLT SPT HEL ASLT HEL BN co co BN • AGO 7121A Figure 12-1. Aviation group, airmobile division . FM 1-15 c. Assault Helicopter Battalions. Airlift of brigade tactical elements is provided by the two assault helicopter battalions. Each battalion has three lift companies and one aerial weapons company (chap 17). d. Assualt Support Helicopter Battalion. The assault support helicopter battalion contains three aircraft companies which primarily provide airlift for the movement or artillery, engineers, infantry battalion logistical elements, and some supplies, but which can be used to airlift infantry assault forces (chap 18). 12-5. Coordination a. Aviation Group Commander. The group commander also serves as the division aviation officer. In addition to commanding activities of the aviation group, he exercises special staff supervision of nonorganic Army aviation elements attached to or supporting the division. b. Assistant Division Aviation Officer. Tlie assistant division aviation officer is located at the division tactical operation center (DTOC) where he represents the division aviation officer (aviation group commander) as a special staff officer with the division aviation element. As the division aviation officer's representative on the division staff, the assistant division aviation officer is the primary coordinating agency for the allocation of the division's aviation resources. c. Aviation Group Headquarters. The aviation group headquarters performs normal headquarters functions and provides detailed information for inclusion in the aviation annex of all division orders. It prepares the group aviation orders for employment of subordinate, orangic, and attached units. 12-6. Capabilities and Limitations a. Capabilities. At full strength and under conditions of optimum utilization of manpower and materiel (AR 310-31), the aviation group can (1) Perform staff planning for, supervise, and provide command and control of subordinate and attached units. (2) Provide aviation personnel to serve as members of the division SlJecial staff. (3) Provide continuous (day and' night) operations during visual weather conditions and limited operations under instrument weather conditions in support of the division in the forward areas of the combat zone within the division area of influence. ( 4) Provide limited aerial battlefield surveillance to acquire information regarding the enemy and terrain, and to perform target acquisition. ( 5) Perform simultaneous airlift of the assault elements of two airmobile infantry battalions and one of the division's 105mm field artillery battalions. ( 6) Provide armed aerial escort in support of airmobile operations. (7) Provide aircraft to support the division headquarters, the support command, and other units of the division not possessing organic aircraft for command control, liaison, and recon c naissance, to include radiological survey. (8) Provide aircraft for airlift of supplies, equipment, and divisional troop units. (9) Provide electronic landing assistance to aircraft at base airfields during instrument flying weather. (10) Provide pathfinders to assist in airmobile operations. (11) Provide aircraft as required to supplement patient air evacuation missions. b. Limitations. The aviation group has the following limitations: (1) The operational capabilities of the group are reduced by adverse weather conditions. (2) The group has limited ground vehicular mobility. AGO 7121A FM 1-15 (3) The group has a requirement for local ( 4) Organic security must be augmented 1 _j air superiority, and requires assisby other troops to enable continuous operations. tance in the suppression of enemy (5) The group requires large amounts ofground-to-air fires. POL. AGO 7121A FM 1-15 CHAPTER 13 COMMAND AND STAFF 13-1. Aviation Group Commander a. As one of the principal commanders of the division, the aviation group commander reports to and operates directly under the division commander. He exercises command over the aviation group and all elements assigned or attached to the group. In exercising this command, he is assisted by the group staff. b. The aviation group commander is assigned the additional duty of division aviation officer. In this capacity, he is responsible for informing and advising the division commander and staff on matters concerning the employment of elements of the group, other divisional aviation units, and nondivisional Army aviation elements supporting the division. He also- (1) Maintains liaison with higher, lower, and equivalent unit headquarters. (2) Prepares and supervises the aviation group portion of the division training program, and monitors aviation training for other units of the division through his division aviation staff. (3) Supervises the establishment and operation of the division air traffic control and regulation system, and the division base airfields. ( 4) Prepares aviation portions of division estimates, plans, orders, and reports. (5) Prepares the aviation portion of the air movement plan for airmobile operations. c. The aviation group commander (division aviation officer) is represented by the assistant division aviation officer (ADAO), located at the DTOC, as the special staff officer with the division aviation element. Duties performed by the ADAO are outlined in paragraph 4-3. ~ AGO 7121A 13-2. Aviation Group Staff The aviation group staff is responsible to the group commander for acquiring information; making recommendations; preparing estimates, plans, and orders ; and coordinating all operations of the group. The group staff normally is organized as discussed below, or as otherwise designated by the group commander. FM 101-5 contains details of staff officer functions, and chapter 4 of this manual outlines the duties and responsibilities of members of the aviation battalion staff. a. Unit Staff. The unit staff is composed of the executive officer, adjutant, intelligence officer, operations and training officer, logistics officer, and sergeant major. Staff functions normally are performed under the supervision of the executive officer. b. Special Staff. The special staff is composed of technical specialists and heads of services who advise and report directly to the group commander on group-wide activities. The surgeon, aviation maintenance officer, aviation safety officer, chaplain, signal officer, chemical officer, and the pathfinder platoon commander normally are designated as members of the special staff. 13-3. Liaison To provide effective and timely aviation support to the division, the aviation group must maintain liaison with the major units of the division. Figure 13-1 indicates the necessary liaison between the various elements of the division and the aviation group. a. An aviation group liaison officer or team habitually is attached to each infantry brigade of the division. The liaison officer is the aviation group commander's personal representa FM 1-15 ( SENDING HEADQUARTERS 0 u- _J I-:z I a... LUO IU- a... co V) LL.J a (..!J _J 1-:Z I-LL.J 0::: :z _J co _li a RECEIVING HEADQUARTERS >