VOLUME I Multinational Maritime Tactical Instructions and Procedures

MTP 1(D), Vol. I
6552 AIRCRAFT LAUNCH/DEPARTURE
a. Fixed-Wing Aircraft. When launched from CVs, all jet and turboprop aircraft normally
proceed directly to a point at least 7 miles ahead of the ship at an altitude of 300 to 500 feet, then jets fly a
10-mile arc, turboprops a 7-mile arc to intercept the departure radial. Propeller aircraft proceed to a point 5
miles ahead, fly a 5-mile arc to the departure radial, maintaining an altitude of 300 to 500 feet. High
performance VTOL/VSTOL aircraft operating from ships other than CVs shall comply with
launch/departure procedures delineated for CVs. Jet and turboprop aircraft rendezvous between 20 and 50
miles, and propeller aircraft rendezvous between 10 and 50 miles from the ship along the departure radial.
b. Helicopters. Helicopters may be operated either from the CV or other ships within the CV
control zone. ASW helicopters may also be operated tactically within the zone. Precise procedures to suit
every circumstance cannot be defined, but the following rules apply:
(1) All helicopters within the zone are to be under either positive or advisory control.
(2) Helicopters should normally be operated or transited through the control zone below 300 feet.
(3) Helicopters are not to approach within 5 nm of the CV unless cleared and/or operating under the
control of the CV.
c. Unscheduled Launch and Recovery Operations. Ships are to activate control zones by
INTENT message. Control zones around CV/LPH/LHA ships will be permanently in force unless
otherwise ordered.
NOT RELEASABLE
6553 PROCEDURE FOR RETURNING AIRCRAFT
Aircraft returning from strikes and sweeps are to rendezvous on the way back from the target area
and return in formations appropriate for mutual defense, proper recognition, and fuel economy via the
Tomcat if one is stationed, and if they are so directed. To assist in the establishment of their friendly
character, aircraft make their final approach to each task group on a bearing and at an altitude previously
specified, and squawking IFF.
6554 MARSHAL PROCEDURES
a. Marshaling is the procedure whereby aircraft are controlled on a predetermined flightpath by an
ACU prior to commencing an outbound transit or after completing an inbound transit prior to recovery.
b. The location for this process is known as the marshaling gate and will be within the radar
coverage of the ACU.
6-72 ORIGINAL