APPENDIX D
FIGHTING POSITIONS
TOW fighting positions may be mounted or dismounted, depending on the situation. A camouflage net can be used with either configuration.
D-1. DISMOUNTED TOW FIGHTING POSITION
A tripod-mounted TOW fighting position must meet the following specifications:
- Allows the squad to engage the enemy in its assigned sector of fire.
- Provides protection for both the weapon and its crew.
- Blends with its surroundings so that it cannot easily be detected 35 meters to the front and cannot be seen from the air.
a. The steps in constructing the position should be conducted in the following sequence:
(1) Assemble the launcher.
(2) Clear the fields of fire while ensuring the sector is under observation.
(3) Dig the weapon position first, then add overhead protection for the crew.
(4) Build a parapet to the front and flanks of the position.
(5) Disconnect the MGS and place it in the position made for it. Place the launcher into the position. Reconnect the MGS and check the boresight.
(6) Improve the position by adding overhead cover for the crew and system.
(7) Camouflage the position.
(8) Inspect the position and its camouflage. If possible, move at least 35 meters to the front of the position and study it.
b. The initial position should look like Figure D-1.
(1) Make the position 24 inches deep.
(2) Make the parapet at least 18 inches thick to keep out small-arms fire and artillery fragments. It should provide 9 inches of muzzle clearance under the launch tube.
(3) Do not place dirt or equipment in the backblast area.
(4) Scoop out a place for the MGS either under or to the front of the tripod.
(5) Dig a storage/protective area for the crew and missiles to one flank at a 90-degree angle to the primary direction of fire. Use the strongest material available for the roof. Put canvas or plastic down before throwing dirt on the roof to keep the ceiling from leaking. Place at least 20 inches of dirt on top of the storage/protective area (Figure D-2).
(6) Ensure the ground behind the TOW is free of leaves and dirt out to 25 meters so the backblast does not leave a signature.
(7) Ensure all the standard principles of camouflage are followed. (For example, cover all fresh dirt with leaves and brush, replace withered foliage, always approach position from rear, and so forth.)
D-2. MOUNTED TOW FIGHTING POSITION
A mounted TOW fighting position must meet the following specifications:
- Does not restrict the TOW's target engagement.
- Provides concealment from ground and air observation for the crew and vehicle.
- Backblast area is as clear as possible of debris that would increase launch signature.
a. Camouflage and conceal the firing position.
(1) All vehicles travel to a position over the same route to prevent the enemy from detecting the number of vehicles present.
(2) The route taken should follow existing paths, roads, fences, or natural lines in terrain.
(3) Exposed routes should not end at a position.
(4) If only a short portion of the route into a position is exposed, sweep out the tracks with tree branches.
(5) Traffic in and out of a position should be held to essential movements only.
(6) Upon moving into a position, be sure to erase the trail leading into the position.
(7) Ensure all standard principles of camouflage are adhered to (same as for tripod-mounted position).
b. If a hull-down position is not available, use a hide position (Figure D-3).
c. If possible, move at least 35 meters in front of the position to ensure that it looks natural and blends with its surroundings.
D-3. CAMOUFLAGE NETS
When camouflaging any TOW fighting position, whether mounted or dismounted, the net must be positioned so it does not hang in the backblast area. If any portion of the net is in the backblast area, the net will be damaged and could collapse on top of the launcher when a missile is launched. Also, the net must not interfere with the field of fire.
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