FM 57-35 Airmobile Operations - Survival Books

WWW.SURVIVALEBOOKS.COMe. Coordination of schemes of maneuver (establishment of linkup points; delineation of objectives and boundaries or axes ofadvance)./. Fire coordination measures employed during the juncture ofthe airmobile force and advancing friendly forces are of majorimportance in preventing casualties to both the link-up force andthe airmobile force. The principal measure for fire coordinationis the establishment of a pre-determined mutually agreed-uponfire coordination line (FCL). The function of the FCL is to regulate flat-trajectory and high-angle fires and offensive air strikes.No more than negligible effects of nuclear fires will be permittedto extend beyond the FCL without prior coordination with theother friendly force. The FCL, where feasible, should be delineated by terrain features clearly recognizable from both the groundand the air. The FCL becomes effective at a pre-determined timeor on order. The FCL is employed as protection for friendly forcesbeyond the line and fires delivered across the FCL must be coordinated with the other friendly force. In addition to the FCL, boththe airmobile and link-up force commanders will designate no firelines (NFL) as protection for their own respective forces from thehigh-angle fires of their own supporting weapons. Since the FCLapplies to both the link-up and airmobile forces, when the NFL ofthe advancing force merges with the FCL, all high-angle fires areseverely restricted and must be closely coordinated with the affectedforce.g. The airmobile force provides assistance to the advancing linkup forces by providing guides and removing obstacles that wereestablished to hinder enemy movements.38. CommunicationCommunication considerations must be integrated into the planning process at the beginning of the planning phase. Plans/ordersshould include a selection of communication equipment and personnel to accompany the assault and rear echelons. Particular attention is given to the transportability of equipment and the dispersalof key personnel when preparing for the air movement and loading. To avoid enemy detection, communications may have to beminimized or radio silence may have to be imposed during the earlystages of the operation. For detailed information on communications in the infantry and airborne divisions, see FM 7-24.a. Communication for Control of Airmobile Force. Control ofmovement is necessary to provide precise timing and execution ofthe operation. Plans are prepared to insure communication between control personnel and the following:AGO 2294B 25