9. Tips for Transport Planning

Planning an air assault operation requires a deliberate, synchronized process that integrates ground and aviation elements under a unified scheme of maneuver. Begin by conducting a detailed mission analysis and terrain study to identify potential pick-up zones (PZs), landing zones (LZs), and enemy positions. Develop a task organization by assigning units into assault, security, and support forces, each with specific roles during the operation. Coordinate with supporting arms such as artillery and close air support (CAS) for Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) and landing zone preparation. Synchronize timelines for air movement, fire support, and ground maneuver to ensure unity of effort. Prioritize communication planning and contingency actions to maintain command and control during all assault phases.

9.1 Planning Air Assaults

The following steps will guide you through planning simple air assaults.

• Select Transport Helicopters: Use Shift + Click to select multiple helicopters.

• To access the Transport Planner, Right-Click on a unit counter and select ‘Plan Air Transport.’

Assign Cargo:

• Click ‘Cargo by Group’ to highlight cargo locations on the map.

• Right-Click on cargo units to load them onto the helicopter, prioritizing the largest (white) transport requirements first.

• Continue adding cargo until the helicopter is full.

Load Additional Helicopters: Select another transport unit from the Transport section and repeat the cargo-loading process.

Plot a Flight Route: Click ‘Plot Route’ and define at least three waypoints:

• Waypoint 1: Pick-up location.

• Waypoint 2: Objective location.

• Waypoint 3: Return point near the starting location.

Set Drop-off Location:

• Check the drop-off box below the waypoint list and set Waypoint 2 as the drop-off location.

• The transport map overlay will be updated to reflect this.

Transport Orders: Click ‘Issue Plan’ to convert the plan into orders.

Assign Post-Landing Orders:

• Open the Unit Dashboard and select one of the transported units.

• Change the final order to ‘Move Deliberate’ and plot a route from the landing zone to the target position.

• Set ‘On Arrival’ to ‘Screen’.

• Apply the order.

Repeat for Other Units: Assign similar post-debarkation orders to other transported units.

Start Execution: Press ‘Start’ on the game clock panel to execute the orders. The Transport Planner will close automatically, but remain available for review until all orders are carried out.

Reminder: Even with a well-executed air assault plan, the game simulates real-world uncertainty—expect the unexpected after first contact.