VOLUME I Multinational Maritime Tactical Instructions and Procedures

MTP 1(D), Vol. I
CHAPTER 11
Amphibious Operations
SECTION I — INTRODUCTION
11000 GENERAL
a. This chapter contains a summary of NATO doctrine for amphibious operations and their associated
command and control procedures. More detailed information on this subject can be found in ATP 8,
Doctrine for Amphibious Operations.
b. Amphibious operations offer great strategic mobility together with both political and military
flexibility. Because they do not require specific points of entry, such as ports or airfields, they pose significant
operational problems for an enemy. However, they are complicated and require detailed specialist
knowledge, planning, and training.
c. Amphibious forces constitute a major force multiplier as the enemy must commit a significantly
greater number of forces to secure coastlines and all other possible points of entry. Once committed, however,
this capability is much reduced until the force has re-embarked, on completion of an amphibious
operation.
d. An amphibious operation is defined as “An operation launched from the sea by naval and landing
forces against a hostile or potentially hostile shore” (AAP 6).
e. An amphibious operation is always tactical in nature, and should not be confused with an administrative
maritime reinforcement operation, for which the information in this chapter is not necessarily applicable.
Neither should amphibious operations be confused with riverine operations, a river crossing, or
logistics-over-the-shore operations.
11-1 ORIGINAL