personnel qualification standard (pqs) - I Marine Expeditionary ...

116 Tactical Measures
o An alternate LZ should be planned for each primary LZ selected to ensure
flexibility.
o Enemy troop concentration and air defenses and their capability to react to
a nearby helicopterborne landing are considered when selecting LZs.
o LZs deny enemy observation and acquisition of friendly ground and air
elements while they are en route to, in, and departing from the LZ.
o If possible, the helicopterborne force should land on the enemy side of
obstacles when attacking and use obstacles to protect LZs from the enemy
at the other times.
o LZs must be free of obstacles.
o LZs should be readily identifiable from the air. When possible,
reconnaissance units should be used to reconnoiter and mark the LZ.
o Requirements for logistic support.
o Requirements for fire support.
o Available lanes to and from LZs and any restrictive effects on the
employment of supporting arms.
o Reduced visibility or strong winds may preclude or limit the use of
marginal LZs.
What are the two methods of marking an LZ?
The marking of PZs/LZs is as follows:
o During the day, a ground guide marks the PZ/LZ for the lead aircraft by
holding an M-16A2 over his head, by displaying a folded VS-17 chest
panel high, or by other identifiable means.
o The code letter Y (inverted Y) is used to mark the landing point of the lead
aircraft at night (see fig. A-1). Chemical light sticks may be used to
maintain light discipline.
116-6