VOLUME I Multinational Maritime Tactical Instructions and Procedures

MTP 1(D), Vol. I
Table 8-1. Surface Action Checkoff List
PHASE 1 — PREPARATIONS
PHASE 2 — DETECTION, IDENTIFICATION, AND
TARGET ASSIGNMENT
a. Evaluate updated threat intelligence, SSM ships
will be primary threat; SAM ships must also be considered.
Decide enemy’s most dangerous likely
courses of action, having determined whether he has
already been targeted by other friendly forces.
b. Consider surface surveillance priority in relation to
ASW and AAW.
c. Consider stationing of pickets, bulging the screen,
and/or detaching SAGs or submarines.
d. Consider use of deception and evasion.
e. Consider best use of assets, links, and communications
for targeting.
f. Ensure emission policy is appropriate to surface
threat priority.
g. Consider retention or delegation of authority to initiate
and coordinate OTH attacks by LR ASSM.
h. Consider target identification criteria, required
recognition level, required recognition confidence
level, and weapons expenditure.
i. Consider target priorities and damage criteria.
j. Determine likely units to coordinate and conduct
OTH action, after considering disposition, capabilities,
etc.
a. Determine employment of available surveillance
assets, including provision of extra helicopters and
tasking of ESM equipment of all aircraft.
b. Determine employment of air, surface, and
subsurface units, and other support facilities to provide
timely, continued, and accurate target localization,
identification, and recognition data.
c. If appropriate, request support from area commanders’
forces.
d. In light of available target localization, identification,
and recognition data, review force weapon release
criteria.
e. Consider employment of air, subsurface, and surface
units for attack.
f. Review previously ordered, or order appropriate
Surface Action Plans.
g. Review Emission Policy.
h. Consider SSM Missile Seeker Free Zone (MSFZ)
and Missile Seeker Tight Zone (MSTZ).
i. Determine SAG composition after considering disposition
and capabilities.
j. Assign targets and promulgate clear directions to
participating units.
k. Consider methods of damage assessment.
l. Reevaluate jamming tasking.
m. Consider effects of weather, e.g., on ship’s maneuverability
and flying operations.
n. Determine the execution of gridlocks, ensuring a
matched picture with all participating units.
8-3 ORIGINAL