Sensor Section Emplacement,
Survivability, and Operations
This chapter describes the tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP) for emplacement of the ADA sensor section. TTP will help the section maximize their capabilities while performing their mission.
The ADA sensor section, as with any air surveillance asset, presents lucrative targets for enemy ground and air attack. Though the section is highly mobile, it should be employed in unsecured areas only when dictated by mission requirements or METT-T. ADA sensor section site selection should be made without degrading its mission. Section survivability against enemy air and ground attack can often be improved by the following areas.
Actions that should be taken to improve battlefield survival include the following:
- Selecting a position that is hidden from enemy ground observation (for example, the military crest of a hill).
- Moving using stealth.
- Moving into positions during darkness.
- Taking advantage of terrain to provide natural cover and concealment for the ADA sensor section and its organic vehicle.
- Using camouflage netting and natural materials to camouflage and conceal the position.
- Blending equipment into natural background.
- Erasing and covering tracks when vehicle is mounted.
- Keeping position litter-free.
- Enforcing noise and light discipline.
- Collocating with task force/brigade.
One way to keep the enemy confused about the location of the ADA sensor section is to conduct survivability moves. Because of their light configuration, mobility is one of the key assets of the ADA sensor section. Although the sensor section will normally be deployed in HMMWV with mounted radios, the tactical situation may dictate that the sections deploy on foot. Though they are capable of rapid emplacement and march order, the distances moved may vary. The movement distance must depend on METT-T and the tactical situation. The movement should be as rapid as possible to get back into operation providing early warning. Things to consider regarding movement are as follows:
- Move as required to keep the enemy from targeting the position (such as, survivability move of 200 to 500 meters).
- Move at night if possible or when visibility is limited.
- Move quickly--get back into operation.
- Move after recent air or ground reconnaissance of the area.
- Move if the position has been fired upon. Alternate positions must be identified and are normally briefed in the operation order.
Although mobility is fundamental to the ADA sensor section, the tactical situation could dictate that the section fortify its position. This is especially true when the section is unable to take advantage of natural cover and concealment. Use of field fortifications reduces damage to equipment and injury to members when enemy forces
locate and attack an ADA sensor section site. Two restrictions make it difficult for the ADA sensor section to construct adequate fortifications. One is the limited number of personnel to do the work. The other is the time the section has to fortify the position. However, the section should attempt to fortify the position to the best extent possible. The use of available concertina wire and claymore mines will provide additional position security. As a minimum, every section member should plan to have an individual prone shelter. The section chief determines if fortification should be initiated. Positions should be improved throughout the section's occupation. The ADA sensor section chief should choose positions that cannot be seen by enemy ground observation posts. Look for areas that provide natural protection, such as mounds or depressions. They can easily be enhanced with sandbags or other materials. The section should obtain dirt and other natural materials at a distance from the position to avoid disturbing the immediate area.
Upon arriving at the position selected during the map reconnaissance, the section's primary goal is to become operational and provide early warning for the force. The distribution of tasks and teamwork make the process of reaching the primary goal easier and quicker. This means that as members of a section, the section chief, sensor section operator, and section driver/operator must perform their individual tasks quickly and efficiently. The following priority phases for the ADA sensor section should be established for emplacement. Although some of them are accomplished simultaneously, each must be completed.
Establish local security and defense against ground attack by infiltrators or guerrillas. Section personnel sweep the area and establish guard posts with communications for quick reaction.
When the section arrives at the selected position, the driver maneuvers the vehicle into a position that provides the best natural cover and concealment and allows for coverage of the assigned NAIs. The sensor section member selects a tactical remote position that ensures an adequate field of vision and good cover and concealment. Look for areas to emplace the HMMWV and OP/LP on the military crest of a hill, not on the top.
Establish communications and enforce security procedures at all times. The ADA sensor section establishes all required radio communications, and when the tactical situation indicates, begins to transmit over the DEW broadcast net.
Improve ADA sensor section positions as soon as time and tactical situation permit. Erase tracks made by the section and vehicle. Camouflage personnel and equipment using natural material, where possible. Supplement natural camouflage by using artificial material. Hide positions should be established for immediate use. The section chief should complete an ADA sensor coverage diagram that reflects ranges to critical points on all likely avenues of approach (see the Sensor Section Coverage Diagram).
As time allows, select and prepare an alternate position. This will enable the ADA sensor section to move to it quickly whenever the primary position is compromised.
Both en route to and while in its tactical position, the ADA sensor section could be subjected to an NBC attack. The section will be at mission-oriented protection posture (MOPP) level designated by the commander. In the event of a chemical or biological attack, the section's first action should be self-protection. The section will immediately go to MOPP 4. Upon attack, NBC 1 observer's report is sent to higher headquarters. Other section members use chemical detection kits to detect chemical agents. If the kit indicates that the area is contaminated, turn off all power and disconnect the power cable from the generator or other power source. Once the NBC 1 report has been sent, decontamination procedures should start. Rinse all exposed surfaces with water, allow to dry, and retest. If you use such decontaminates as DS2, follow the directions to prevent damage to the equipment.
While at their location, the ADA sensor section can operate at night and during adverse weather conditions. The procedures for communications of early warning data are the same as in daylight. Communications requirements remain the same.
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