VOLUME I Multinational Maritime Tactical Instructions and Procedures

MTP 1(D), Vol. I
8300 GENERAL
SECTION III — ANTISURFACE WARFARE WITH AIR COOPERATION
Air assets in support of antisurface warfare operations may be used for the detection of the enemy,
for locating, identification/recognition, and reporting in order to contribute to the surface picture and for
target data reporting and transmission. Independent and coordinated attacks on the enemy’s surface units
may be included. The type of support to be provided by air assets depends on operational requirements and
on the capabilities of the air assets. Air assets may also be used to distract the enemy’s attention from own
forces, and to disrupt the enemy’s command and control.
8301 ANTISURFACE OPERATIONS SUPPORT BY FIXED-WING AIRCRAFT
a. The aim of antisurface operations by fixed-wing aircraft is to ensure the detection and
engagement of enemy surface forces in order to deny their effective employment. Fixed-wing aircraft may
be employed in:
(1) Attacks on enemy surface forces.
(2) Scouting, using any sensor to acquire tactical information.
b. Armed reconnaissance, a combination of both types, is possible, depending on the tactical situation
and available air assets.
NOT RELEASABLE
8302 ANTISURFACE OPERATIONS BY HELICOPTERS
a. The aim of antisurface operations by helicopters is to:
(1) Assist forces in the detection, localization, identification, recognition, and targeting of hostile
surface forces.
(2) Attack lightly defended enemy forces, especially fast patrol boats equipped with SSMs.
b. Helicopters will normally be integrated with a surface force that may or may not have other air support.
They may be land based or shipborne. When two or more helicopters cooperate against a particular surface
threat, they form a HAG. The best-fitted helicopter should become HAG commander (CONTROLLER).
c. Helicopters in antisurface operations may be employed in reconnaissance and attack and may
carry out controlled operations or act independently, as ordered by the OTC, or the unit that the OTC has
assigned duty as HCU.
(1) Controlled Operations. When the helicopter has two-way communications with and is
within the radar range of the control unit, the helicopter is to operate under positive or advisory control.
(2) Independent Operations. When the helicopter is beyond radar range and/or communication
range of the HCU, the helicopter is fully responsible for safety, navigation, and the accomplishment
of its task.
8303 COOPERATION BETWEEN FIXED-WING AIRCRAFT AND HELICOPTERS
If helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft cooperate in engaging a surface target, the following rules will
apply. As the supporting aircraft approaches the target area and communications are established, the
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