scope:

a. This ATP is principally concerned with helicopter tactical operations in support of land forces in Europe.

b. The ATP is intended for use by ground and aviation (helicopter) forces from unit to formation level.

c. Helicopter operations as part of Amphibious Warfare are covered in ATP-8.

d. The special aspects of Airmobile Operations are outlined in Volume 1 Chapter 8 and Volume 11 Chapter 10.

e. Promulgation of this ATP does not negate the need for unit commanders in the field to co-ordinate international helicopter operations but provides a common basis for this co-ordination, which has been sanctioned by National Authorities.

Aim. The aim of this publication is to improve inter-operability among NATO helicopter forces engaged in land operations by establishing common principles and procedures for battlefield helicopter operations. The publication has been structured into 2 volumes for ease of reference: Volume 1 concerns the doctrine and principles of helicopter operations whilst Volume 2 describes helicopter tactics, techniques and procedures, and contains information which is technical in nature.