Doctrinal movement rates for aircraft do not exist. The analyst therefore
evaluates aircraft movement In terms of maximum effective range, at optimum speed
(not maximum speed), with an optimal weapons load and for a specific attack
profile. Air transport operations are normally evaluated in terms of maximum
range, at best cruising speed with the highest possible payload. Doctrinal
movement rates for air defense units are computed exactly like those for other
ground force units.
Doctrinal templates for most airspace operations are not prepared. If time
permits, templates showing the most direct air routes into an objective may be
prepared with the understanding that considerable deviation is possible. Instead,
the analyst should concentrate on the doctrinal attack profiles employed by threat
aircraft types.
Doctrinal templates for air defense units and elements are developed in the same
manner as for other ground force elements. Doctrinal templating may be general,
depicting unit locations, or specific enough to depict individual radars,
launchers, or weapons.
Doctrinal templates are prepared for airborne and air assault operations of company
size or larger. These templates are developed using the following considerations:
* Surprise and speed are
the principal advantages during airborne and air
assault operations.
* Extensive security measures are employed to screen the location of the LZ and
DZ and the approach of the force.
* Landings will be in undefended areas, or in areas where the defenses have
been neutralized.
* There must be effective air cover, and air defenses must be suppressed along
the entire flight approach route.
* LZs and DZs will be located as close to the objective as security permits.
* When circumstances permit, particularly for assaults in support of water
crossings, the LZ and DZ will be on the objective.
* Doctrinal size of an LZ and DZ is approximately 3 by 4 kilometers.
An
airborne regiment will normally be allocated one or two of these zones for
operations.
Air assault battalions are normally allocated only one LZ per
operation.
7-21
IT 0462
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