VOLUME I Multinational Maritime Tactical Instructions and Procedures

MTP 1(D), Vol. I
12055 GENERAL TACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS
In spite of threatened or actual chemical attack, the force must continue its mission with its disposition
being dictated by the most serious threat present in a multithreat situation.
12056 OTC’S CONSIDERATIONS
When a chemical threat exists, the OTC should:
a. Order an appropriate degree of readiness and establish a washdown policy.
b. Consider possible changes to the disposition in view of prevailing and forecast wind direction
and speed.
c. Consider the desirability of stationing a ship or ships with automatic detection equipment upwind
of the force.
d. Station ships to avoid multiship contamination.
e. Establish a helicopter haven and fixed-wing aircraft diversion airfields.
f. Consider the desirability of continuing aircraft and flight deck operations.
g. Determine the necessity for scheduling underway replenishment operations in view of the need
to protect personnel and the risk of contamination if upper deck loads must be struck below.
12057 CHEMICAL ATTACK
a. If a chemical threat is deemed to exist, a chemical attack must be assumed when:
(1) A ship comes under fire.
(2) Hostile or unidentified low-flying aircraft are sighted.
(3) Suspicious mist, smoke, droplets, splashes, or odors are noticed.
(4) Personnel suffer any of the symptoms of chemical agent poisoning.
(5) Any chemical detection system or device indicates the occurrences of chemical attack.
b. A unit observing any of the above is to broadcast the alarm to the force. The OTC shall maneuver
the force or order ships to maneuver independently to avoid further contamination, depending on searoom
and the tactical situation. Guidance to individual ships is given in Table 12-4. Reports are to be made in accordance
with ATP 45.
12058 AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS
The operation of aircraft under a chemical threat warrants careful consideration. The employment
policy is the OTC’s decision and will depend on the threat situation. Reaction and turn-around times are
likely to be increased by the need for aircrews and flight deck personnel to wear protective clothing and requirements
for washdown.
12-13 ORIGINAL