VOLUME I Multinational Maritime Tactical Instructions and Procedures

MTP 1(D), Vol. I
SECTION IV — AIR OPERATIONS
6400 INTRODUCTION
The discussion in this section encompasses maritime operations outside of TASMO by aircraft:
1. Organic to a force.
2. Carrier- or land-based providing support to a force at sea.
3. Conducting air operations in the maritime environment.
6401 MARITIME TASKING AUTHORITIES
Maritime aircraft under the operational control of a maritime commander may be tasked by a shore
authority if land-based, or by the OTC if shipborne on a force at sea. When tasking maritime aircraft, the
tasking authority, MHQ, or OTC should:
1. Employ the appropriate aircraft in a safe manner to accomplish the assigned task.
2. Inform all units of all friendly aircraft operating in the vicinity.
3. Disseminate pertinent information to all units in the area in a timely manner.
4. Liaise with air defense authorities and civil air control authorities including NOTAM actions.
6402 AIR SUPPORT OPERATIONS
Maritime aircraft may be assigned to provide support to forces at sea in one of three forms.
a. Direct Support. Aircraft assigned to direct support of a force at sea will operate under the
tactical control of the OTC who is being supported. Operational control will remain with the tasking
authority and tactical command may be delegated to the aircraft commander. Direct support operations are
normally carried out within the OTC’s surveillance area. The radius of direct support operations about the
force will be determined by the OTC and will vary according to:
1. The threat.
2. The number and type of aircraft available.
3. Area coverage desired.
4. EMCON plan in force.
The OTC is to inform the tasking authority of the dimensions of his surveillance area and of
subsequent changes, emission policy permitting.
b. Associated Support. In specific cases of communications or other control difficulties,
associated support may be provided. Aircraft tasked on associated support will operate independently of
other forces at sea; however, their tasking is in support of a specific force. They may be tasked to support
that force by providing contact information and to receive intelligence from the OTC who is being
supported. The aircraft may be tasked to establish communications with the supported force to prevent
mutual interference. The OTC of the supported force cannot take tactical control of the aircraft unless
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