scope:

1. ATP-8(B) contains tactics, techniques and procedures and information necessary to the understanding of all phases of an amphibious operation. It provides guidance for the execution of an amphibious operation and the ideal sequence of such an operation from its inception to its completion.

2. ATP-8(B) is divided into two volumes. Volume I includes command and control, planning, the different types of amphibious operations, support of amphibious operations, logistics, and riverine operations. Volume II includes communications, craft control procedures, loading and stowage, shipping requirements, embarkation, waterborne and helicopterborne ship-to-shore movement, targeting and fire support coordination, air operations, and airspace control.

3. ATP-8(B) is limited to the basic principles underlying amphibious warfare and will be used primarily as a repository for tactics, techniques and procedures only.

Purpose

1. The purpose of ATP-8(B), Volume II, Tactics, Techniques and Procedures for Amphibious Operations, is to provide common tactics, techniques and procedures for amphibious operations so that those concerned with planning and executing such operations may integrate assets from Nations and Services into a coherent and workable operation.

2. ATP-8(B) provides background information to support the amphibious warfare chapter of ATP-1, Volume I, and also provides Allied forces with knowledge of amphibious operations. Its primary purpose is to ensure basic uniformity in the planning and execution of Allied operations while permitting the development and flexibility required by each tactical situation. It is not intended to prevent an officer's exercising tactical command from initiating and issuing special instructions or from conceiving and developing new operational procedures.