VOLUME I Multinational Maritime Tactical Instructions and Procedures

MTP 1(D), Vol. I
(1) The handover should take place below the target’s radar horizon.
(2) If possible, secure communications should be employed preferably at a range and altitude from
the target that will preclude intercept.
(3) Passive handover techniques such as the use of predesignated sonobuoy channels should be
considered.
6263 COUNTERSHADOWING
a. In both peacetime and in times of tension, commanders should be aware of the fact that they could
be shadowed even though there may be no indication of a shadower. The known presence of one shadower
does not exclude the presence of other, undetected, shadowing units. A shadower is not necessarily
dangerous in itself.
b. Its task may be to gather intelligence or to observe units and relay information on movements. On
the other hand, its task may be to provide target information for the opponent’s offensive forces, intended
to adopt counter-shadowing tactics to hamper the shadower’s task.
c. The purpose of countershadowing tactics is to confuse and deceive the shadowing opponent in
order to withhold information on own movements and intentions and, if possible, to shake it off. In general,
these tactics will be most effective when used at night, in reduced visibility, or by taking advantage of
environmental conditions.
NOT RELEASABLE
6264 MARKING
The aim of marking is to be able to deliver an immediate and effective attack on the enemy when
hostilities are ordered. However, units overtly engaged in marking operations will be particularly
vulnerable to surprise attack by the enemy; units marking covertly (e.g., SSNs) will be less vulnerable to
attack. In selecting the marking unit, it will be necessary to weigh the need to demonstrate a presence
against the vulnerability of the marker.
6265 COUNTERMARKING
The potential threat posed by a marking unit may be reduced by the employment of a countermarker.
Units engaged in countermarking will pose a direct threat to the marker and thus limit the options available
to him. If conducting continuous countermarking duties, they may be better able to accomplish the aim
than surface units as they are less vulnerable to pre-emptive action. Surface units conducting
countermarking may be at close quarters harassment stations; missile, gun, or radiation positions; or
defensive positions close to own threatened unit(s).
6266 TATTLETALE
A unit maintaining contact may be used to pass targeting information to other units. Such a unit
maintaining contact is designated a tattletale. A tattletale may or may not be capable of taking offensive
action. Tattletale operations may be preferable to direct marking as they permit the whereabouts of the
primary attacking unit to be concealed.
6267 — 6269 SPARE
6-13 ORIGINAL