VOLUME I Multinational Maritime Tactical Instructions and Procedures

MTP 1(D), Vol. I
(5) Submarines.
(6) Coastal batteries (tactics and procedures are a national responsibility).
(7) Mining (see ATP 6).
NOTE
Submarine operations are not dealt with in this chapter. Safety precautions to be observed when
cooperating with submarines are prescribed in Chapters 6 and 9.
NOT RELEASABLE
d. Coordinated Operations. Antisurface operations may be carried out by a combination of
any of the single types of forces listed in paragraph c, in order to exploit the different advantages of their
sensor, weapon, and command capabilities. The most important combinations in coordinated operations
are dealt with in this chapter. The cooperation of those combinations not described must be arranged for ad
hoc using the procedural principles of this chapter.
8104 SURFACE POLICY
a. Surface Threat. Whenever a surface threat is deemed to exist, the OTC should promulgate a
policy for surface action. An early and comprehensive statement of intentions in an Operation Order/
OPGEN/OPTASK will reduce the requirement for messages, unless the situation changes.
b. Surface Policy. The Surface Policy can be stated in broad terms only, or specified in detail as
required. Table 8-1 contains a checkoff list, based on the phases of surface action outlined in Article 8105.
They may be used to prepare orders and to update and execute them.
c. Success of Surface Action. The success of surface action depends on a thorough understanding
of the Surface Policy, a good initial plan, and the initiative of commanding officers.
8105 SURFACE ACTION
a. Phases of Surface Action. Surface action can be broadly stated as taking place in the following
phases.
(1) Phase 1 — Preparation.
(a) Events leading to the detection, localization, identification, and recognition of the enemy.
(b) A review of the situation against the established policy, planning, and tasking.
(2) Phase 2 — Detection, Localization, Identification, Recognition, and Target
Assignment.
(a) Assuming the optimum force offensive and defensive posture.
(b) The decision to join the enemy in battle.
(c) Selection and localization of particular enemy units as prime targets.
(d) Decision to request area commanders assets or to use force assets.
8-2 ORIGINAL