FM 17-98 SCOUT PLATOON

Although passive measures are the first line of defense against air attack, the scout platoon must be prepared to engage
enemy aircraft. The decision to fight back against an air threat is based on the situation and the capabilities of organic
weapon systems. (NOTE: All platoon members must understand that they can defend against a direct attack but
cannot engage aircraft that are not attacking them unless the applicable weapons control status allows it.)
Scouts have several weapon systems (chain guns, machine guns, and small arms) that can be used against aircraft
when they must fight back. Engaging aircraft with volume fire is the key to effective use of small arms and machine
gun fires against an air attack. These fires must be coordinated to be effective. Delivered on the platoon leader’s
command, they are directed at an aim point in front of the target (see Figure 6-15); gunners do not attempt to track the
target. Guidelines for selecting aim points are listed in Figure 6-16. They are simple and logical; they must be learned
and retained by everyone in the platoon.
Figure 6-15. Aim points.