ATP-3-94-2 HIMARS Deep Operations Download
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Aviation in the Deep Area 1 September 2016 ATP 3-94.2 B-5 level of risk associated with a continuous attack increases with the number of attack iterations. The attacks may become predictable over time and increase the vulnerability of aviation forces. Additionally, controlling multiple elements that are maneuvering simultaneously increases the complexity of the operation. Therefore, decentralizing the execution may enhance the synchronization of the aviation forces. Phased Attack B-26. To exert increased initial firepower of the aviation force on the enemy force, one aviation force begins attacking the enemy and then quickly phases in the second aviation force from a different battle position or attack by fire position. The commander may choose to modify this method of employment. For example, one force may be employed to set the conditions for the other forces to exploit the attack. During the phased attack, it is important to minimize aircraft turnaround time at the FARP. B-27. With a relative balance of risk and complexity, the phased attack maintains increased pressure on the enemy but does not over commit combat power and strain sustainment activities. This balance requires precise synchronization of resources and timing of attacks. Maximum Destruction B-28. The maximum destruction method exerts maximum combat power on the enemy force. To overwhelm the enemy force with massed fires, the aviation unit attacks the objective with all elements simultaneously. Sustainment planning should consider multiple FARPs for refueling and rearming after the initial engagement to reduce the time required to continue mission. B-29. Maximum destruction attacks minimize risk during execution of the operation. The commander maintains maximum control over the attack and synchronization of the resources and can apply substantial combat power to overmatch the enemy on the battlefield. The commander has the ability to direct combat power as necessary to react to branches and contingencies in the operation overwhelm the enemy with multiple dilemmas. However, the commander should consider the inherent risk associated with committing all attack aviation assets forward simultaneously. Sustainment planning, preparation, and execution are critical to ensuring the commander has the necessary forces available to conduct follow-on missions by providing timely and reliable maintenance, arming, and fueling capability. Strike Coordination and Reconnaissance B-30. Strike coordination and reconnaissance (SCAR) missions, consisting of Army aviation and joint assets, are flown to detect targets so coordinated attacks or reconnaissance can be performed on those targets. SCAR missions occur in specific geographic areas, such as the deep area, to coordinate multiple flights, detect and attack targets, neutralize enemy air defenses, and provide BDA. Once an aircrew receives the task to conduct SCAR, no further authorization is required to deliver or direct delivery of ordnance on appropriate targets. A SCAR has the authority to direct aircraft to proceed against appropriate targets. For more information on SCAR, refer to ATP 3-60.2. Route Selection B-31. Route selection for an attack in the deep area must consider the time required for the mission and the possible threat encountered throughout all phases of the operation. Ingress and egress of the target area must be selected to enhance survivability and maintain the element of surprise. Planning for multiple routes must consider known or templated enemy locations. Route planning must include checkpoints to facilitate navigation. B-32. Prior to the execution of the operation, the ingress route should be stealthily and deliberately reconnoitered for terrain, hazards, and enemy positions. A threat to enroute aircraft during an operation in the deep area may include enemy integrated air defense systems (IADS). An enemy IADS could include detection, command and control, and weapon systems integrated to actively or passively protect those assets critical to achieving their strategic, operational, and tactical objectives. If possible, a route identified to avoid enemy IADS should be developed or SEAD fires may be employed to neutralize or destroy the threat to ensure safe passage.