FM 3-99 Airborne and Air Assault Operations March 2015: Incorporating Change 1, September 2025

Author: Headquarters Department of the Army, United State

Brand: Majosta

Number Of Pages: 225

EAN: 9798264683664

Release Date: 10-09-2025

Package Dimensions: 11.2 x 8.5 x 0.7 inches

Languages: English

Binding: hardcover

Details: FM 3-99: Airborne and Air Assault Operations


Introduction

FM 3-99 serves as the authoritative doctrine for the planning, preparation, and execution of airborne and air assault operations across the full range of military operations. It outlines the employment of highly mobile, rapidly deployable forces to project power, conduct forcible entry, and seize key terrain under contested conditions. This manual is essential for Army, joint, and multinational planners seeking to leverage vertical envelopment to achieve strategic and operational objectives. Incorporating Change 1 (September 2025), it updates tactical considerations, multi-domain integration, and joint interoperability based on evolving threat environments and recent operational insights.

Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Operational Context Chapter 2: Airborne Operations Chapter 3: Air Assault Operations Chapter 4: Planning Considerations Chapter 5: Command and Control Chapter 6: Integration and Support

Chapter Summaries


Chapter 1: Operational Context

Defines the role of airborne and air assault forces in providing strategic reach and rapid response. These operations enable early entry into denied environments and shape conditions for follow-on forces. It emphasizes joint force integration, operational adaptability, and alignment with multi-domain operational (MDO) frameworks.

Chapter 2: Airborne Operations

Covers the doctrine, planning, and execution of static-line and military free-fall insertions. Details include drop zone (DZ) selection, jumpmaster procedures, timing, and link-up operations. Airborne operations are essential for vertical maneuver and disrupting enemy rear areas. Considerations for airframe loading, air route planning, and risk management are also included.

Chapter 3: Air Assault Operations

Describes rotary-wing insertion of assault forces using helicopters. Covers staging, PZ operations, air movement, landing zone (LZ) selection, and execution of the ground tactical plan. Emphasizes speed, flexibility, and synchronized fires to overcome enemy defenses and establish lodgments deep in hostile territory.

Chapter 4: Planning Considerations

Outlines the air mission planning process (AMPP), including intelligence preparation of the battlefield (IPB), terrain analysis, and synchronization with fires and sustainment. It emphasizes route planning, airspace deconfliction, weather impacts, rehearsal requirements, and contingency planning to maximize survivability and mission effectiveness.

Chapter 5: Command and Control

Defines roles and responsibilities of key leaders, including the air mission commander (AMC), ground tactical commander, and aviation task force. Covers communications planning, digital systems, fire support coordination, and the importance of maintaining C2 in dynamic environment