Brigade Aviation Element Handbook (TC 1-400)

Army training circular (TC) 1-400 is intended for all Army brigade aviation element (BAE) personnel, brigade combat team (BCT) commanders, and their staffs. It is intended for use at brigade level but may be adapted for use at ground maneuver battalion level. The focus throughout this TC is how the BAE operates and how it supports the BCT. This TC identifies coordination and information requirements necessary for effectively employing aviation and aviation-related assets in the combined-arms team. TC 1-400 provides as much information as possible without reprinting other doctrinal manuals. Its intent is to provide considerations, lists, and checklists to assist the user in planning and executing aviation operations in support of the BCT. The operational concepts are based on Army doctrine as established in Army field manuals (FMs); thus, it cannot be read in isolation. To successfully use information presented here, the reader must have an understanding of doctrinal concepts contained in listed references within this TC. The TC emphasizes force structure and enhanced operational capability provided by Army aviation transformation which is ongoing and should be complete by 2008. This TC applies to the Active Army, the Army National Guard (ARNG)/Army National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS), the United Sates Army reserve (USAR) , and Army civilian employees of the transformation force across the full range of military operations-peacetime military engagements (PMEs), small scale contingencies (SSCs), and major theater war (MTW). TC 1-400 builds on the collective knowledge and experience gained through recent operations, many exercises, and the deliberate process of informed reasoning. This publication is rooted in time-tested principles and fundamentals, while addressing new technologies and evolving responses to the diverse threats to national security. It will also assist Army branch schools in teaching aviation operations. The procedures described herein are intended as a guide and are not to be considered inflexible. Each situation in combat must be resolved by an intelligent interpretation and application of the doctrine set forth herein.