VOLUME I Multinational Maritime Tactical Instructions and Procedures

MTP 1(D), Vol. I
b. Joining Procedures for Helicopters.
(1) NOT RELEASABLE
(2) Airmove Messages. Airmove messages may be used to determine and confirm which
agency has tactical control when aircraft are being transferred between ships and shore, and to enable
overdue action to be initiated at the earliest opportunity.
(3) Transit. In situations where radar coverage of the forces does not overlap, the transit is to be
conducted on the transit control frequency. Other aircraft on this frequency may be used to provide communication
relay facilities to simplify the transfer of control of the aircraft to the force marshaller. Attention
is drawn to the significance of the establishment of two-way communication in the transfer of
operational control.
(4) Join/Rejoin. Due to the low altitude of the majority of helicopter operations and the small radar-echoing
area of most helicopters, it is unlikely that positive identification/recognition as described
in Article 6417 will be achieved at ISRs in excess of 50 nm. However, the slow approach and distinctive
emissions associated with many helicopters should greatly assist in identification/recognition after the
helicopter has entered the ISR.
Helicopters joining or rejoining a force should obtain clearance from the AAWC or controlling unit
to close within ISR. The controlling unit should then order standard identification/recognition procedures
in accordance with Article 6417.
When a restrictive Emission Policy is in force or when two-way radio communication has not been
established, thus precluding a procedural clearance, the OTC/AAWC should consider the adoption of
some or all of the following procedures:
(a) Nominating “slot times” at the ISR for returning helicopters.
(b) Ordering specific approach altitudes and speeds for returning helicopters.
(c) Ordering briefed maneuvers and/or 1FF identifications to be performed every 10 minutes
while closing, until identified.
The procedures adopted should be stated in the AAW and tasking messages.
6473 LOW-ALTITUDE RULES (FIXED-WING AIRCRAFT AND HELICOPTERS)
a. Flying of Helicopters. Aircraft approaching a force are to assume that helicopters are flying
unless otherwise informed. The appropriate ACU is to inform aircraft on joining, of the state of helicopter
flying, and subsequently of any changes.
b. Standard Rules. Unless otherwise ordered, or overriding tactical considerations dictate, the
following rules apply when fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters are operating in proximity (in the order of
10 miles):
(1) Maximum altitude for ASW helicopters — 400 feet.
(2) Minimum altitude for fixed-wing aircraft at night or when visibility is 3 nm or less — 700 feet
(except for aircraft in the carrier approach and landing patterns). When a fixed-wing aircraft is required
to operate below 700 feet, all helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft in the area are to be placed under
6-57 ORIGINAL