FM 57-35 Airmobile Operations - Survival Books

WWW.SURVIVALEBOOKS.COMCHAPTER 4CONDUCT OF AIRMOBILE OPERATIONS57. GeneralSection I. GENERALThis chapter describes the seizure and defense of an objectivein hostile territory by an airmobile infantry division battle groupin conjunction with a ground attack designed to effect an earlylinkup with the airmobile force. The tactical principles, phases ofthe operation, and conduct of the assault described apply generallyto all airmobile operations. See chapter 5 for a discussion of othertypes of operations that may be conducted by airmobile forces.58. Tactical Principlesa. Airmobile operations are conducted with emphasis on mobility,surprise, and speed. Tactical surprise is achieved through theability of aircraft to deliver assault forces directly upon or immediately adjacent to the objectives. Aggressive ground attacksexploit surprise by the prompt seizure of initial objectives. Therapidity of the attack reduces vulnerability to enemy counteraction, including his use of nuclear weapons.b. Airmobile forces are not employed on missions that can beperformed as expeditiously and effectively by other forces orweapons.c. Airmobile assaults usually are made in areas where strongenemy defense and large organized combat units are not initiallypresent or where they have been neutralized.d. Unity of command throughout the operation is essential.e. The limited ground mobility and firepower of the airmobileforce in the objective area necessitates special measures to reducethe vulnerability of the force to enemy armor./. Airmobile operations are usually conducted in conjunction witha ground attack to effect an early linkup with the airmobile force.59. Decentralization of ControlIn the assault, control is decentralized and subordinate units arerelied on to seize initial objectives or perform initial tasks rapidly38 AGO 2294B