# Team Employment ARCs and ARTs normally organize into teams for TACOPs to gain increased flexibility of employment; team driven operations are the basic building block for many aviation combat operations conducted by companies. Platoon and company formations are generally comprised of multiple lead/wingman teams. Each team should be prepared to assume duties of other teams during missions. The type of flight mode and movement technique is based on METT-TC. *** ## Scout Weapons Team Employment Scout weapons teams (SWTs) are normally comprised of a lead and a wingman. Lead is generally the most proficient PC in the team and is selected based on ability and demonstrated knowledge of missions, tactics, and local SOPs. This position does not interfere with the normal command and control the mission. It does allow the most experienced PC to maneuver the team and engage using proper tactics, formations and weapons delivery techniques as directed by the AMC. The wingman’s primary responsibility is to cover the lead aircraft. In addition, the wingman is generally the commander, platoon leader, or senior warrant officer who serves as AMC. The AMC provides critical tactical leadership and decision making and is overall responsible for the team/flight. Table 3-1 defines composition and responsibilities of SWTs. These tasks are not all inclusive and task assignment may be changed by the AMC due to METT-TC or unit SOP. It is important to note that team roles and responsibilities (other than AMC) can change numerous times during the mission {% hint style="info" %} The trail aircraft may assume tactical lead when they are the first aircraft to locate the enemy and need to execute immediate actions on contact. The length of time and degree to which aircraft roles and duties are reversed are a factor of METT-TC and unit SOP {% endhint %}

Table 3-1 Cont'd

SWTs comprised of OH-58Ds and AH-64s perform missions using the same principles as ARC and ART pure teams with minor changes in TTP and lead/wingman roles (table 3-2). These changes are necessary to maximize the strengths and reduce the inherent weaknesses of each airframe. The overall affect of this pairing combines the reconnaissance and air-ground integration capability of the OH-58D with the superior firepower of the AH-64
### Team Maneuvering When different types of aircraft operate in a formation, the operating procedures, characteristics, and limitation of each type must be evaluated. Additionally, when aircraft are mixed at night, differences between NVG, forward-looking infrared (FLIR), and external lighting must be identified and considered in planning. Inconspicuous use of IR chemical lights or tape, IR strobes, and/or IR position lights allows easy identification and improved spatial reference. Maneuverability is a prime consideration for SWTs when performing TACOPs. The following formations allow lead to maintain formation integrity, yet maneuver with few restrictions. Wingmen must maintain a position that will not hamper lead’s ability to maneuver while providing their own horizontal and vertical clearance. Variations in altitude may be advantageous based on METT-TC. The high-low concept in conjunction with the movement technique may provide more flexibility to the team, especially in the urban environment. Wing may increase his altitude commensurate with the threat to utilize the potential energy of altitude to build airspeed during a diving attack. This provides a more stable gun platform and greater maneuverability for egress off the target. Over open terrain or during high illumination, greater spacing is used to increase survivability and flexibility. Formation spacing becomes tighter in rough terrain or reduced illumination/visibility. It is important to avoid flying over the same spot on the ground; variations in flight path between aircraft/teams should be the norm. The mission dictates aircraft separation and team separation. Aircraft and teamseparation may range from 3-5 rotor disks to 1 kilometer or more (figure 3-1). Primary concern when establishing separation is METT-TC and the ability to provide mutual support. The basic SWT formations are combat cruise, combat cruise left and right, and combat spread. These formations can be enlarged and modified as necessary to accommodate platoon and company missions.
### Combat Cruise Combat cruise is used when teams wish to move quickly and maximize use of terrain for masking. Combat cruise allows the wingman flexibility in maneuvering the aircraft left or right of the lead aircraft’s centerline. The wingman should never track in straight trail as it limits forward observation and the ability to provide suppressive fires for lead. It also increases the possibility that the lead’s presence has alerted the enemy to the wingman’s flight path. Separation should be 150 meters or more depending on terrain and threat (figure 3-2). Combat cruise formation is— * Preferable at very low altitudes for long flights breaking up the predictability of the formation and permitting optimal terrain flight using masking terrain. * Preferable during day and high visibility weather when small arms fire threat is substantial. * Standard formation for SWT employment.
### Combat Spread Combat spread promotes security by providing maximum firepower forward and overlapping fields of view (FOVs). When flight lead announces combat spread, he includes the command left or right. Wingmen should move toward that abeam position, either lead’s 3 or 9 o’clock position. Flying in combat spread requires a rapid scan to maintain SA of the other aircraft as well as approaching terrain; this requires even more vigilance at night. For planning, the wingman should maintain approximately ten rotor disk separation from the lead aircraft. Team leaders may vary the maximum lateral separation between aircraft based on visibility, maneuver space available, and expected enemy weapon ranges (figure 3-4).
Combat spread formations― * Can be used when maximum observation to the front is desirable or when attempting to limit exposure of the flight when crossing open areas. * May be used en route to minimize vulnerability of trail aircraft. * Are not advised for use in the objective area when constant maneuvering is required. * Increase pilot workload to maintain formation, especially under night vision systems #### Planning Considerations The factors considered in determining the best formation, or sequence of formations, are— * Mission of supported and aviation units. * Current enemy situation, enemy AD capability and placement, and vulnerability to enemy visual or electronic surveillance. * Weather and environmental conditions such as ceiling and visibility, wind and turbulence, ambient light levels, and IR crossover throughout the mission. * Artillery support available, NSFS, planned types of ordnance, and en route J-SEAD. * Possible changes in mission or situation and evasive tactics to be used. * Type of NVDs used. * Level of crew training and experience. z Aircraft capabilities. *** ## Flight Modes and Movement Techniques Flight modes include low-level, contour, and nap-of-the-earth (NOE). They are often referred to as terrain flight. Based on METT-TC, all three modes of flight can be combined during the execution of missions. Movement techniques include traveling, traveling overwatch, and bounding overwatch. Movement techniques are designed to exploit mobility of helicopters while employing fire and maneuver concepts. Security is established and maintained by adapting the flight to specific flight modes and movement techniques according to METT-TC. Flight modes and movement techniques incorporate principles of overwatch which include— * Locating the enemy with a minimum of forces. * Using all available cover and concealment. * Overwatching lead elements and preparing to fire and maneuver. * Adjusting movement technique and type of terrain flight to factors of METT-TC Teams choose flight mode and movement technique based on available terrain and probability of enemy contact. Battalion or TF S-3s recommend terrain flight modes and movement techniques based on IPB; however, companies refine this information during TLP choosing the appropriate scheme of maneuver for assigned mission(s). ### Terrain Flight Mission Planning and Preparation Using elements of METT-TC is essential to the safe and successful accomplishment of missions at terrain flight altitudes. Consistent with commander’s intent, flight routes, holding areas (HAs), and ABFs/BPs are determined and planned accordingly. Contingency planning is also a critical element during this stage of the operation, including alternate flight routes, alternate HAs, hazards (both flight and threat) and suspected enemy positions. The entire planning sequence is a methodical and thorough effort, eliminating confusion and clarifying each step in the planned execution phase. This intensive level of preparation also better prepares each aircrew to react to changes, unexpected events, and emergencies. This planning phase must include appropriate personnel from the next lower level of operation ensuring adequate dissemination of information and mission accomplishment. The rapid dissemination of information allows maximum planning and familiarization time by aircrews. It also permits maximum time to brief the mission and address the body of questions and inquiries that inevitably result. There must be a sense of urgency in expediting the flow of information to aircrews as quickly as possible. Essential planning for terrain flight may include— * Analyzing the mission using the factors of METT-TC. * Performing a map/photo reconnaissance using the available map media, AMPS video map terminal, or photos (ensure all known hazards to terrain flight are plotted on the map or into the AMPS). * Selecting the appropriate terrain flight modes. * Selecting appropriate primary and alternate routes and enter them on the map, route sketch, or into the AMPS. * Determining distance, ground speed, and estimated time en route (ETE) for each leg of the flight. * Obtaining and evaluate weather briefing. Terrain flight planning and preparation also include aircraft preparation to ensure aircraft are configured, preflighted and readied for the ensuing mission. This is most effectively accomplished with a timely and continuous information flow from higher headquarters, such as battalion S-3 ### Terrain Flight Limitations errain flight imposes additional factors on aircrews and units not encountered on missions flown at higher altitudes. The following are considerations for missions at terrain flight altitudes: * Mountainous or uneven terrain restricting use of LOS radios, making it difficult or sometimes impossible to conduct normal communications. * In terrain flight operations, control may be delegated to a lower level due to inherent problems. Aircrews and platoon, section, or team leaders must be knowledgeable enough to execute the mission using sound tactical judgment. This is a result of training and experience. * IEDs/vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIEDs), wires, towers, and thrown objects can have effects on aircraft flying over or too close to roads. Such missions should be coordinated with higher headquarters ensuring appropriate airspace management and acquiring the latest intelligence updates. Even in a training scenario, the plan to conduct terrain flight operations must be disseminated ensuring safe use of the training area. The unit anticipates increased maintenance as a result of increased demands placed on aircraft and components. Demands on aircrews increase dramatically when terrain flight operations increase, especially NVD terrain flight. Specifically, fighter management becomes a larger issue with an increase in psychological and physiological stress. The factors increasing stress include— * Increased workloads (physical dexterity and mental processes). * Limited FOV when using NVD. * Reduced visual acuity, viewing distances, and depth perception. * More complex aircrew coordination. ### Modes of Terrain Flight Terrain flying includes appropriate tactical application of low-level, contour, and NOE flight techniques as appropriate, diminishing the enemy’s capability to acquire, track, and engage aircraft. Terrain flight requires aircrew proficiency in map reading, preparation, and terrain interpretation. It also requires constant vigilance in identifying terrain features and hazards, and understanding effects of surrounding terrain, ambient light, and seasonal changes in vegetation. Continuous NOE or contour flight is unusual because terrain and vegetation vary. Normally, there is a transition from one mode to the other as the situation dictates. Modes of terrain flight are defined below. #### *Nap-of-the-earth flight* NOE flight is conducted at varying airspeeds as close to the earth’s surface as vegetation and obstacles permit. Aviators should decrease airspeed if weather and ambient light restrict visibility. #### *Contour flight* Contour flight is conducted at low altitude conforming to the earth’s contours. It is characterized by varying airspeeds and altitude, dictated by the terrain and obstacles. Aviators should decrease airspeed if weather and ambient light restrict visibility. #### *Low-level flight* Aviators perform low-level flight at constant altitude and airspeed, dictated by threat avoidance. Aviators should decrease airspeed if weather and ambient light restrict visibility. ### Selection of Terrain Flight Modes Companies must determine which terrain flight mode to use in each segment of the planned route during the mission planning sequence. This determination is based on METT-TC. #### *Mission* The mission influences selection of terrain flight techniques. This is especially true if the company performs the mission at night. Factors such as light levels and moon illumination complicate NVD flight at terrain flight altitudes. The lack of visual acuity may demand a lower airspeed and higher altitude. #### *Enemy* Threat weapons can detect and engage aircraft at low altitudes. To avoid or minimize detection, the company must select the appropriate terrain flight mode. #### *Terrain and Weather* Vegetation and terrain features masking an aircraft from visual and electronic detection significantly degrade the capability of threat weapons to detect an aircraft. The company determines a maximum safe flight altitude by availability of terrain features and vegetation to mask the aircraft. Companies use the highest terrain flight altitude for a specific condition. A higher flight altitude reduces difficulty in navigation, permits a higher airspeed, reduces hazards to terrain flight, and minimizes fatigue. Periods of deteriorating weather with low ceilings/restricted visibility may make any of the terrain flight modes extremely difficult or impossible. These weather conditions also make navigation more difficult and increase potential for IIMC, especially when flying in formation or operating in an unfamiliar environment. #### *Troops* Personnel factors may affect selection of terrain flight techniques. These may include aircrew availability, experience level, and effects of the fighter management program. #### *Time* Time also influences selection of the terrain flight mode. Whenever possible, the route should be flown at the highest flight mode to permit the shortest completion time. #### *Civilian Considerations* The selection of a particular mode must consider the safety of and potential threat from any civilian sector. Consideration must also be given to the disturbance of civilians. An attack reconnaissance team conducting security for a civilian event may become detriment to the mission on the ground. *** ## Movement Techniques ### Traveling Company elements employ traveling technique to move rapidly through the operational environment when enemy contact is unlikely, or the situation requires speed for evading the enemy. All aircraft move at the same speed. This technique is the fastest method for aircraft formation movement, but provides the least amount of security. Units often employ low-level and contour flight at high airspeeds using the traveling movement technique. ### Traveling Overwatch Company elements employ traveling overwatch when speed is essential and enemy contact is possible. This technique is normally associated with reconnaissance, security, and attack missions when threat and/or environmental conditions preclude use of bounding overwatch. Lead aircraft or teams move constantly and trail aircraft or teams move as necessary maintaining overwatch of lead. Overwatching aircraft key their movement to terrain and their distance from the main element. It also remains ready to fire or maneuver, or both, providing support to main elements. Units often employ contour or NOE flight with the traveling overwatch technique using high and varying airspeeds depending on weather, ambient light, and threat. ### Bounding Overwatch Company elements employ bounding overwatch when they expect enemy contact and the greatest degree of concealment is required. It is the slowest movement technique; too slow for high tempo operations and vulnerable for nonlinear and/or urban operations. Individual aircraft or aircraft teams employ alternate or successive bounds. One element remains in position to observe, fire, or maneuver before the other element moves. Overwatching elements cover the progress of bounding elements from a covered and concealed position, which offers observation and fields of fire against potential enemy positions. The length of the bound depends on terrain, visibility, and effective range of the overwatching weapon system. Units normally employ contour and NOE flight with bounding overwatch technique. Airspeed during each bound is varied depending on availability of vegetation and terrain for concealment. ### Maneuvering Flight In addition to terrain flight, NOE tasks, and hovering engagements, aviators must be well versed in maneuvering weapons employment techniques such as running fire and diving fire. These TTP require Army aviators to be intimately familiar with aerodynamics and maneuvers associated with high energy weapons platform employment. These skills are required to support engagement of a distributed enemy in complex terrain Combat maneuvers should only be used as required to accomplish the mission. Units should incorporate training programs to develop combat maneuvering skill sets as well as define the factors of METT-TC that precipitate the need for transition to high energy tactics. AMCs or flight leads identify and brief changes in flight profile based on threat and mission changes. See TC 1-201 for more information. --- # Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://229.gitbook.io/229-hub/knowledge/attack-reconnaissance-helicopter-operations/employment/team-employment.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. 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