VOLUME I Multinational Maritime Tactical Instructions and Procedures

MTP 1(D), Vol. I
6260 TASKS
Based on the recognized picture, tactical decisions can be made. This can lead to the assignment of
tasks to ships, aircraft, or submarines. The following tasks are described in the subsequent paragraphs:
a. Shadowing.
b. Countershadowing.
c. Marking.
d. Countermarking.
e. Tattletale.
f. Weapon employment.
6261 SHADOWING
a. Shadowing operations are normally a follow-up to surveillance and/or reconnaissance missions.
The effectiveness of shadowing is measured by the ability to obtain and report the required information.
Shadowing can be carried out using overt or covert tactics. In times of tension, the shadowing unit must be
well aware of the Rules of Engagement (ROE) in force. Shadowing may be conducted by aircraft,
submarines, or by ships, or combinations of them.
b. It is important that shadowing is not mistaken for marking, as this may cause an unwanted
escalator effect. To avoid any misunderstanding on own intentions, the following should apply:
(1) Select shadowing units with little offensive capability.
(2) Shadowing with relatively strong units should be done within own sensors but outside own
maximum effective weapon range.
(3) Shadow covertly.
6262 INFORMATION EXCHANGE BETWEEN SHADOWING AND RELIEVING UNITS
a. The exchange of information between the shadowing unit(s) and the relieving unit(s) must be as
complete as possible. Some major points to consider are:
(1) Additional information about the type of target.
(2) Position, course, and speed of the target.
(3) Observed emission policy and level of communications security of the target.
(4) Frequencies used by the target.
(5) Aircraft embarked.
(6) Behaviour of the target in general and against the shadowing unit(s).
b. During aircraft handover, the aircraft going off task is to ensure that the relief aircraft gets a
positive handover. In covert operations, the following should be considered:
6-12 ORIGINAL