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MCWP 3-35.4
 
*NWP 13 (Rev. A)
Doctrine for Navy/ Marine Corps JointRiverine Operations
U.S. Marine Corps
April 1987 PCN 143 000048 00
 
PURPOSE
The purpose of this publication is to set forth the doctrine covering the planning for and conduct of all Navy and Marine Corps joint riverine operations. This publication contains basic doctrine covering the concepts, command and organiza- tion for riverine operations, and other matters required for planning and executing riverine operations. In its entirety, this publication provides the agreed doctrine and procedures for use by the Navy and Marine Corps. Although it applies in varying degrees to operations conducted in limited and general war in a riverine environment, this publication is principally directed toward the conduct of operations short of limited war (such as coun- terguerilla operations). Throughout this publication, references to other publications imply the effective edition.
BASIS
This publication has been developed by the Navy and Marine Corps in accordance with statutory responsibilities for development of doctrine and procedures as established by the Unified Action Armed Forces (UNAAF) and as- signed to individual services by the Function Paper.
SCOPE
The doctrine set forth herein applies only to riverine operations from the inception of plan- ning to the termination of operations, in terms designed to be suitable for the guidance of the Navy and Marine Corps in riverine operations.
PREFACE
Since the tasks to be performed in any riverine operation are functionally the same, this doctrine is applicable to all riverine operations. However, it is recognized that in unusual cir- cumstances the unified/joint commander may determine that variations are required.
COMMAND AND ORGANIZATION
Forces assigned to conduct riverine opera- tions are organized as a mobile riverine force (MRF). When criteria for a joint task force are met (Chapter 3, Section 2, Subsection 5, UNAAF), the mobile riverine force will be so designated. Although Navy and Marine Corps amphibious operations do not require formation of a joint task force, riverine operations are unique, separate, and distinct from amphibious operations. Accordingly, Navy and Marine Corps riverine operations are considered to be joint operations and the MRF to be a joint task force within the definition contained in para- graph 30251 of UNAAF. The provisions of Chapter 3, Section 2, Subsection 2, UNAAF apply. Throughout this publication, where the term “mobile riverine force (MRF)” or “mobile riverine force commander” is used, it applies equally to Navy and Marine Corps riverine operations. Other forces may be attached or directed to provide support to the MRF (Chapter 3, Section 2, Subsection 6 and 7, UNAAF). In accordance with UNAAF, the composi- tion of the staff of the mobile riverine force commander will reflect the organizational form of his assigned forces. In addition, appropriate consideration will be given to other forces which may be attached or directed to provide support. 29
ORIGINAL
 
RELATIONSHIP WITH OTHER COMMANDS
The MRF is organized as a subordinate command within the unified command struc- ture. Establishment of intervening commands between the MRF and the unified command may be required when the riverine operation is one of several related operations, and the unified command structure is not suitable for direct control of all forces participating therein. However, the mobile riverine force commander will retain responsibility for, and operational control of, forces assigned to the MRF. Relationships of the mobile riverine task force commander with other commands will be the subject of specific instructions for each operation in accordance with general principles set forth in UNAAF. In the case of a combined command, similar instructions will be required.
AIRSPACE CONTROL
Airspace control must provide for each Service component within a joint force to operate vehicles or weapons systems within the airspace over the combat zone in the perfor- mance of its assigned missions. Therefore, airspace control as set forth in this publication denotes a service provided in order to permit flexibility of actions, and does not include measures to approve, disapprove, deny, or delay air operations. It is further defined as the coordination, integration, and regulation of the use of an airspace of defined proportions which will include the riverine objective area. In this context, coordination is considered as that de- gree of authority necessary to achieve effec- tive, efficient, and flexible use of airspace without at the same time providing command authority. Integration considers the necessity to consolidate requirements for the use of this airspace in the interest of achieving a common objective at the lowest possible level of effort. Regulation indicates the requirement to super- vise activities in this airspace to provide for flight safety, and connotes the authority required to ensure such safety.
ORDERING DATA
Report any page shortage by speedletter to CNO (OP-09B37H) (copy to OP-953 and NAVTACSUPPACT). Order a new publication or change, as appropriate, through the Navy Supply System.
RECOMMENDED CHANGES
Recommended changes to this publication may be submitted at any time using the accom- panying format for routine changes. Pacific fleet units and stations submit recommendations to: Commander Surface Force U.S. Pacific Fleet San Diego, California 92115 Atlantic fleet units and stations submit recommendations to: Commander Surface Force U.S. Atlantic Fleet Norfolk, Virginia 2351 Marine Corps units tions to: submit recommenda- Commanding General Marine Corps Development and Education Command (Director, Development Center) Quantico, Virginia 22134 All other units and CONUS shore activities submit recommendations to: Commander Surface Force U.S. Pacific Fleet San Diego, California 92155 30
ORIGINAL

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