BWS acronyms

Question 1

Techniques of movement:

Answer 1

• Traveling: Used when enemy contact is unlikely. Fastest method for moving a formation but provides least security. (low level/contour)
• Traveling overwatch: Used when enemy contact is possible. Continuous movement of the main elements. Over-watching element keys movement to terrain and its distance from main element. Over-watching element is ready to fire/support. (contour flight)
• Bounding overwatch: Used when enemy contact is expected. Elements move in bounds ready to support each other. (Contour/NOE)

Question 2

Actions on Contact:

Answer 2

• Deploy to cover
• Report
• Maintain enemy contact
• Develop the situation
• Choose a course of action

Question 3

LZ/PZ Recon:

-Tactical considerations:

Answer 3

• Mission: Determine if LZ/PZ will facilitate supported unit’s mission.
• Security: Consider size/proximity of threats vs availability of security forces. Consider cover and concealment, terrain, avenues of app/dep.
• Location: Consider distance of LZ/PZ from supported unit objective.

Question 4

LZ/PZ Recon:

-Technical characteristics

Answer 4

• Landing formation
• Obstacles
• Number of aircraft
• Ground slope
• Load suitability
• Approach/departure direction
• Size of LZ/PZ
• Surface conditions
• Vulnerability

Question 5

Fundamentals of Reconnaissance:

Answer 5

• Gain and maintain enemy contact
• Orient on the mission objective
• Report all information timely and accurately
• Retain freedom to maneuver
• Develop the situation
• Ensure maximum reconnaissance force forward
• Ensure continuous reconnaissance

Question 6

Air Route Reconnaissance:

Answer 6

• Hazards to flight
• Ease of navigation
• Location of enemy forces
• Location of landing sites and zones

Question 7

Spot Report:

Answer 7

SALUTE or SALT-W

• Size
• Activity
• Location
• Unit
• Time
• Equipment

W-What you’re doing about it

Question 8

Landing area recon

Answer 8

TSLOW

• Tactical situation
• Suitability
• Long axis
• Obstacles
• Winds

Question 9

Terrain flight modes:

Answer 9

• NOE: conducted at varying airspeeds as close to the earth’s surface as vegetation and obstacles permit. Up to 25 ft AHO
• Contour: Conducted at low altitudes conforming to the earth’s contours. Relatively constant airspeeds and varying altitude. 25-80ft AHO.
• Low-level: Performed at constant altitude and airspeed, dictated by threat avoidance. 80-200ft AHO