possible and ground commanders must now fight within the confines of the air and land battle and
be prepared to counter the air threat.
Knowledge of small arms defense against air attack is indispensable in the event that your unit is
attacked during normal performance of mission requirements, while your unit is moving, while one
or more weapon systems is nonoperational, or when pop-up targets suddenly appear.
Successful small arms defense against air attack is an essential element of survival on the
battlefield. Knowledge and application of the principles and proper techniques of small arms used
in air defense, together with the correct use of passive air defense will help your unit accomplish its
mission. Small arms can be used effectively against air attack (Figure 1).
Figure 1. Defense Against Air Attack
You integrate air defense into any tactical training, and since we cannot assume air superiority in
future conflicts, the significance of achieving maximum use of all weapons suitable for air defense
is obvious.
Learning to use our full firepower for air defense means preparation and training. This lesson is a
beginning.
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