VOLUME I Multinational Maritime Tactical Instructions and Procedures

PREFACE
MTP 1(D), Vol. I
1. MTP 1, Volume I, Multinational Maritime Tactical Instructions and Procedures, contains tactical principles,
procedures, and instructions evolved as a result of experience and exercises to implement operations
based on the philosophy supporting the various forms of maritime warfare.
NOT RELEASABLE
Definitions necessary to the understanding of this book will be found in the glossary.
NOT RELEASABLE
2. The procedures for each type of warfare are explained in separate comprehensive chapters. While the
construction of the book necessitates that subjects are dealt with separately, it is of the utmost importance
to understand that there is interaction between tactical procedures which are intended to counter different
types of threat.
3. It is unrealistic to assume that a situation will ever exist in which a force may safely prepare to face a single
threat in isolation. It is vital that tactical thought is shaped accordingly, that due account is taken of the
need for the coordination of all sensors and weapons to meet the most urgent situation within the shortest
possible reaction time, and thus to face any threat with the most effective counter.
PURPOSE
1. The purpose of MTP 1 is to provide doctrine, tactics, instructions, and procedures governing the command,
control, and maneuvering of all maritime units. This publication serves as the cornerstone upon
which the Allied Maritime Tactical Library is built. As such, this publication has precedence over other
maritime tactical publications should ambiguity or conflict arise.
2. MTP 1 is divided into two volumes. The specific purpose of each volume is as follows:
a. Volume I — Multinational Maritime Tactical Instructions and Procedures, provides doctrine, tactics,
instructions, and procedures for the tactical command, control, and maneuvering of all maritime
units. This volume also provides instructions related to the employment of forces in selected aspects of
specialized warfare, and, in particular, to the safe handling of units operating in close company.
b. Volume II — Multinational Maritime Tactical Signal and Maneuvering Book, provides maneuvering,
standard operational and administrative signals primarily for use between naval ships, and basic
maneuvering instructions.
SCOPE
1. The doctrine and tactics contained in MTP 1 cover all aspects of the command and control of maritime
forces in peace and war. The publication provides the instructions and procedures required by a commander
to issue orders to fulfill his specified responsibilities and to enable subordinates to understand and
comply with these orders. It also gives details of specific duties associated with the execution of tactical
tasks.
XLI CHANGE 2