scope:

1. This publication addresses operations within a joint environment, with emphasis on NATO land forces operations. The doctrine described in this publication is nested within the context of ATP 3.2.1, Allied Doctrine for Land Tactics.

2. In today's current operational environment, the vast majority of land forces operate within the framework of joint and multinational operations. Supported and sustained by a joint operations area, land forces most often conduct operations (especially convoy operations) in areas partially controlled by allies or coalition partners. These operations require close coordination and synchronization of efforts. In a current operational environment convoys may consist of civilian and military assets including: host nation elements, third party nationals, and contracted resources. Convoys may also cross areas under the control and responsibility of a host country and local security forces. To ensure success, convoys must be supported by combined arms, joint forces, and allies, and air coverage in the joint force area of operation.

3. Military elements will, most likely, be required to organize and conduct convoys in various circumstances. These operations may require additional resources to be allocated depending on the nature of the mission. In some situations it may be wise to envisage escorts during the planning phase of the convoy operation. The number of resources devoted to convoy security can be very significant, given the convoy duration and the nature of the threat.

4. It is highly possible that convoys will consist of elements coming from many branches and Services. A land force commander may have under his command any combination of air, maritime or Special Forces units. As a result, it is important that convoy operations procedures be known and followed by all.

5. This ATP specifically concerns joint and combined, tactical and operative headquarters. It also applies to any organization responsible for the operational functions of conducting convoy operations.

Purpose.

1. Convoy operations are a critical function for all forces supporting operations in a theatre of operations. The asymmetrical nature of the current operational environment has changed the linear dimensions of the battlefield. As such there are many unsecured areas throughout the NATO area of responsibility. Convoy protection is a major concern for all forces. This awareness stems from recent conflicts such as Afghanistan, where the traditional boundaries no longer exist. The enemy uses these unprotected areas to exploit and attack convoys.

2. A constant change in the adversarial tactics, combined with an increase in overall NATO operational commitments, highlights the need for a multi-national doctrine describing convoy operations. This Allied Tactical Publication (ATP) describes the planning, preparation, execution, and the post-operation assessment for all convoy operations.

3. This chapter will describe the general operational context, the scope of the document and what is relevant to NATO operations.