FM 57-35 Airmobile Operations - Survival Books

WWW.SURVIVALEBOOKS.COMCHAPTER 3PLANNING20. GeneralSection I. GENERALa. The planning outlined in this chapter represents the idealplanning development for major airmobile operations. Planningfor an airmobile operation is characterized by simplicity. Timewill not normally be available to produce a volume of written plansor orders. For most airmobile operations involving a battle groupor less, elaborate and detailed plans or orders will not be necessary.Formalized plans subordinate to the operation plan are preparedonly for the more complex and complicated airmobile operations.Planning and preparation time is materially reduced by adequatetraining, maintaining forces in a state of operational and logisticalreadiness, and by the development of a standing operating procedure similar to the one shown in appendix VII.b. Airmobile operations may be successfully undertaken withfar less planning time than is required for joint airborne operations.21. Preliminary Planninga. Planning for airmobile operations is a continuing process.Commanders must be alert for opportunities that arise or whichthey may create for the employment of an airmobile force to influence materially the outcome of a ground engagement. Preliminary planning is a constant assessment of the tactical situation by the commander and staff to determine if the employmentof airmobile forces is within the capability of their unit and will,if employed, materially influence the ground battle. The followingfactors are considered in preliminary planning:(1) The mission.(2) The current tactical situation.(3) The forces and aircraft available.(4) The enemy situation and capabilities.(5) The terrain and weather.(6) The fire support available.(7) The logistical support required.AGO 2294B 13