VOLUME I Multinational Maritime Tactical Instructions and Procedures

MTP 1(D), Vol. I
e. Group Formation. The commander of each group in the disposition is responsible for his
group’s formation/screen within his assigned segment whenever more than one ship is assigned. Unless
otherwise directed, a group may maneuver anywhere within its assigned segment.
f. Disposition Guide. Normally, there will not be a “Disposition Guide.” The disposition moves
with PIM. Therefore, all formations in Disposition 4W maneuver with PIM within their assigned segment.
The OTC/CWC will designate a disposition center (normally Point N13) and a disposition axis which
establishes the position and orientation of the Grid to PIM.
g. Communications. The OTC must be capable of communicating with each group at any time.
If EMCON precludes HF communications, the OTC must establish alternate communication links. The
following communications considerations pertain:
(1) Common HF/SATCOM circuits should be designated for intergroup communications. Each
group may be assigned separate UHF frequencies for intragroup communications.
(2) Warfare commanders should be able to communicate with all units (regardless of groups) having
primary capability in their warfare function.
h. Maneuvering Procedures.
(1) Segment Changes. Periodically, it will be necessary to change segment assignments. To
minimize mutual interference or possible hostile action against friendly forces, intra-grid maneuvers
should be ordered by tactical signal. This signal may be transmitted initially over a voice circuit, and
should be followed up by record traffic. It is essential that all commanders/warfare commanders and the
SOCA be made aware of the details of the change.
(2) Shadowing and Marking. Units will frequently be tasked to conduct surveillance or shadowing
in a particular segment of the Grid. Units conducting such missions should avoid entering segments
assigned to other groups or units. After arrival in a specified segment, the movement of a unit will
be largely determined by the target of interest it is following. Hence, these units should notify their warfare
commander of their entry into unassigned segments as soon as it can be forecast.
(3) Planned Course Changes. The OTC’s OPGEN normally will specify task force PIM. The
disposition will move with PIM and the disposition axis will be PIM track unless otherwise specified.
NOT RELEASABLE
(a) Large Axis Changes. A large axis change is any change in which rotation results in
different segment locations for a unit or group. In this event, the following procedures may be used:
i. Reassign Grid Squares. This is done by overlaying the new Grid orientation over
the old and determining what the new segment assignments should be. Such reassignments
should be included in the signal executing the axis change. This procedure eliminates any requirements
to maneuver. However, units may not be correctly aligned to threat axis.
ii. Retain Original Grid Segment Assignments. This procedure will require most
units to maneuver to new Grid locations. The time required to perform this maneuver will vary
and may be considerable.
3-34 ORIGINAL