Level 1 & 2 Drop Zone Final

BY ORDER OF THE SECRETARY OF THE AIR FORCE
DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE MANUAL 13-217
22 APRIL 2021
Incorporating Change 1, 19 APRIL 2022
Nuclear, Space, Missile, or Command and Control
DROP ZONE, LANDING ZONE, AND HELICOPTER LANDING ZONE OPERATIONS
COMPLIANCE WITH THIS PUBLICATION IS MANDATORY

3.16. DZ Surveys. DZ survey accomplishment is the responsibility of the using organization.
Users must ensure the survey is completed, meets the mission requirements and meets the
applicable operational and safety standards. (T-2). AF Form 3823 is completed in accordance with Attachment 4. Until users complete all steps (survey, ground operations approval, safety of flight review and final approval), AF Form 3823 will not be usable and valid. (T-2). NOTE: DZ surveys expire 5 years from the date surveyed and Chapter 2 applies.

3.3. DZ Criteria. DZ selection factors include (but are not limited to) enemy threats, mission requirements, dispersion, risk of unintended airdrop damage, aircraft capabilities, aircrew capabilities, parachutist capabilities, type of parachutes used, type of equipment to be airdropped, and load or personnel recover-ability. The DZ surface, to the greatest degree possible, should be relatively flat, smooth terrain with no obstacles, vegetation or significant terrain features. If obstacles or other potentially hazardous conditions at the time of survey do exist, the surveyor must identify them on the DZ survey. (T-2). Existing obstacles should be briefed to all personnel prior to use. The ground mission commander and/or Jumpmaster must brief obstacles not listed on the survey and all hazardous conditions to personnel prior to use. (T-2). All airdrops conducted on DZs that do not meet DAF minimum size requirements must have a DZ size waiver in accordance with paragraph 1.4. (T-1).

Table 3.1. Standard DZ Size Criteria.

3.5.6. Aerial Power Line Restrictions. Power lines present a significant hazard to jumpers. Personnel can sustain life threatening injuries from electric shock and/or falls from a collapsed canopy. All restrictions apply to aerial power lines operating at 50 kilovolts or greater. Power lines will be documented on both block 11, remarks, and block 10, DZ diagram, of AF Form 3823. (T-3).

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A4.1.10. Block 10. Provide a legible, to scale diagram of the DZ including all obstacles or prominent features located within the DZ boundaries and 5 NM from DZ center that could affect ground or flight safety. Annotate the distance these items are from the DZ center in block 11 and depict on the DZ diagram, block 10 to include DZ dimensions. Ensure to annotate all charted or observed water hazards and power lines within 1,000 meters of the DZ boundaries (or 1,000 meters of the MFF PI). Diagram shall be oriented true north and indicated with an arrow. (T-1).

Table 3.1. Standard DZ Size Criteria

3.3.1.1. DZ water depth will be a minimum of ten feet, and the area must be free of underwater obstructions to that depth. (T-2). The DZ should be free of floating debris, moored craft, protruding boulders, stumps, pilings, or other hazards within 440 yards/400 meters of the DZ center point.

3.3.6. Random Approach DZ. All approved rectangular DZs are random approach DZs unless
block 11, remarks, of the AF Form 3823 specifically restricts it, or for safety reasons; random
approaches may be used if the airdrop profile requirements can be met within the existing confines of the DZ to permit multiple run-in headings to an alternate PI established during mission coordination. Refer to Table 3.2 and Figure 3.1 Use of a DZ for random approaches does not require a separate survey, but a safety of flight review must be conducted prior to use. (T-2).

3.16.3.3.2. Open Water DZs. Proposed water DZ locations that do not have land terrain features within 2 NM may be surveyed without a physical inspection.

3.3.7. Circular DZ. The PI of a circular DZ is normally at the DZ center to allow for multiple
run-in headings. For specific missions, the PI location may be adjusted to allow for sequential
HE or mass CDS, on circular DZs. Refer to Figure 3.1, option 2 for PI placement. Utilizing a
PI not at the center of the circular DZ may limit the run-in heading to only one direction. When
dropping mass CDS to a center point PI, aircrews may target the sticks middle bundle to the
center point. The minimum DZ dimensions for the type and number of loads being dropped
must completely fit into the surveyed circular DZs. (T-2). For both types of PI placement, use
Figure 3.1 to determine the number of jumpers per pass.

3.3.3. Military Free Fall (MFF) DZ (including operations utilizing MFF systems in a Double Bag Static Line (DBSL) configuration). The JM will determine the minimum size DZ based on the number of personnel to be dropped, jumper proficiency, parachute system being used, and the prevailing winds. (T-3). For MFF training operations a minimum DZ size of 55 yards/50 meters by 110 yards/100 meters (rectangular) or 55 yards/50 meters radius (circular) is recommended. See paragraph 3.16.1.1 for parachute demonstration DZ.

3.2.1.3. The ground mission commander is normally responsible for airdrop accuracy when using GMRS or Verbally Initiated Release System release procedures. The Aircraft Commander (AC) shall assume responsibility for airdrop accuracy if the aircrew adjusts the release point. (T-0).

3.6.1. Surface Wind. The surface wind at the DZ is normally measured using an anemometer or other calibrated wind-measuring device. Report wind direction in magnetic degrees and wind speed in knots. The direction reported is the direction the wind is coming from.

4.8.2.12. The LZSO evaluates and reports meteorological phenomena and surface wind. Surface wind is normally measured using an anemometer or other calibrated wind-measuring device. Then LZSO reports wind direction in magnetic degrees and wind speed in knots. The direction reported is the direction the wind is coming from.

Table 3.4. Surface Wind Limits for USAF Personnel Airdrops.

3.3.1.1. DZ water depth will be a minimum of ten feet, and the area must be free of underwater obstructions to that depth. (T-2). The DZ should be free of floating debris, moored craft, protruding boulders, stumps, pilings, or other hazards within 440 yards/400 meters of the DZ center point.

3.7.1. Standard DZ Markings. Exception: Not required with PR/CSAR assigned and/or gained aircraft or AFSOC assigned and/or gained aircraft OPCON to USSOCOM, or a theater special operations command.
3.7.1.1. During day operations, mark the PI with a raised angle marker and/or block letter. If authentication is required, use a block letter instead of the raised angle marker. (T-3). Authorized letters for PI markings are J, C, A, R, and S. The block letters H and O are authorized for circular DZs. Align the block letters with the surveyed DZ axis or with the aircraft line-of-flight, if different from the survey. The minimum size for block letters will be 35 feet by 35 feet (11 meters by 11 meters) and consist of at least nine marker panels. (T-2). Refer to Figure 3.3.

3.8.4. No-Drop Signals. Indicate a “NO-DROP” condition, DZ closure, or temporary DZ closure in one of the following ways with: authenticated radio transmission, red smoke, red flares, red lights, scrambled panels, or another pre-planned signal. (T-2). NOTE: During night vision goggle (NVG) operations, colored flares may still be used, but due to the delay in aircrew recognition of color, star clusters or other obvious signals are recommended.

Here’s why each method is effective:

1. Authenticated Radio Transmission: Radio communication is direct and immediate, allowing ground crews to confirm and authenticate their message to the aircraft, ensuring there is no miscommunication or ambiguity. This method is especially useful when visual signals may be hard to see or in situations where radio confirmation is required.

2. Red Smoke: Red smoke is highly visible from the air and immediately recognizable as a warning signal. It provides an unmistakable visual cue to abort the drop, particularly useful in daytime operations or when the aircraft needs a clear visual indicator.

3. Flares and Lights: Flares or lights are used for signaling during night operations or in low-visibility conditions. They catch the attention of the crew with their intensity, ensuring the NO-Drop condition is visible even in darkness or poor weather.

4. Scrambled Panels: Scrambled or misaligned panels on the drop zone indicate that conditions are not appropriate for a drop, providing a clear ground-based visual indicator that is visible during daylight. It’s particularly useful in situations where communications might be disrupted.

5. Alternatively Planned Signal: In specific missions, custom signals may be pre-planned, providing flexibility for unique conditions or mission requirements. This ensures that all parties have an established, recognized signal in place should other methods not be suitable.

Table 3.3. Surface Wind Limits for CDS/Equipment Airdrops

3.6.3. Altitude Winds. There are no altitude wind restrictions for fixed wing airdrops. Refer to the appropriate MDS-specific aircraft flight manual, AFI or AFMAN, for altitude wind restrictions for rotary wing aircraft. If surface winds are not available, altitude winds may influence the JM’s decision to drop personnel.

3.6. Airdrop Winds. DZ wind information is critical to airdrop accuracy and aircrews use it to compute the adjusted release point. It is imperative the aircrew receives accurate and timely wind data. This includes not only surface wind and the computed mean effective wind, but also any unusual observations. Examples are wind shear or local phenomena that could affect wind direction, speed, or restrictions to visibility.

Table 3.1. Standard DZ Size Criteria

C-130H, J/C-17 JPADS GUIDED SYSTEMS (Note 9)
3500 feet AGL-25,000 feet MSL
Standard Radius: 328 yards/300 meters
JPADS ULW/JPADS 2K-M: Radius: 200 meters
JPADS 4K/JPADS 10K: Radius: 300 meters

3.3.2. Tactical DZ. A tactical DZ is a DZ that is approved for use in an abbreviated or expeditious manner primarily intended to support emerging mission requirements during contingencies or exercises. Tactical DZs are normally restricted to exercise or contingency missions supporting resupply and personnel infiltration airdrops (versus proficiency jumps, routine training, etc.). Tactical DZ surveys are processed and approved in an abbreviated manner, do not require an AF Form 3823 to be physically signed, and may be passed electronically and/or verbally. Tactical DZs normally require a physical inspection of the DZ by the ground mission unit and a safety of flight review. However, computer-based mapping tools, imagery analysis, and other standoff tools may be used during exercise or contingency operations when tactical conditions do not permit the ground mission unit to physically occupy the DZ area to collect survey data.

https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/education/tutorial_geodesy/geo09_gps.html

It takes four GPS satellites to calculate a precise location on the Earth using the Global Positioning System: three to determine a position on the Earth, and one to adjust for the error in the receiver's clock.

The minimum number of satellites required to calculate a 3-dimensional GPS coordinate location (latitude, longitude, and altitude) is four.

1. Three Satellites for Position: The first three satellites provide the basic coordinates (latitude, longitude, and altitude) by trilateration, which involves calculating the intersection of three spheres centered around each satellite.
2. Fourth Satellite for Time Correction: The fourth satellite is necessary to correct for any discrepancies in the GPS receiver’s clock. GPS systems rely on highly accurate time measurements, and the fourth satellite helps ensure precise synchronization, removing any timing errors.

3.16.3.3. Physical Inspection. The ground surveyor will conduct a physical inspection of the entire proposed DZ surface to identify and evaluate potential hazards. (T-2). Exception: Physical inspection limitations in accordance with paragraph 3.16.3.3.1 and open water DZs in accordance with paragraph 3.16.3.3.2 The surveyor will identify hazards to DZ operations located within 1000 meters/1094 yards of DZ boundary. (T-2).

3.16.3.3. Physical Inspection. The ground surveyor will conduct a physical inspection of the entire proposed DZ surface to identify and evaluate potential hazards. (T-2). Exception: Physical inspection limitations in accordance with paragraph 3.16.3.3.1 and open water DZs in accordance with paragraph 3.16.3.3.2 The surveyor will identify hazards to DZ operations located within 1000 meters/1094 yards of DZ boundary. (T-2).
Additional surface area within 5 NM of the planned DZ center point should be evaluated by physical inspection, map study, aerial photography, GPS and/or electronic mapping tools for hazards to airdropped personnel and/or equipment, man-made or natural structures and ground personnel.

3.16.6.3. Evaluate the DZ route of flight (run-in, drop and escape) to determine if there are obstructions or over-flight restrictions that may affect an aircraft’s ability to achieve drop altitude and airspeed, conduct the drop and safely escape off the DZ. At a minimum, evaluate ingress and egress routes 10 NM from PI. (T-2). If hazards/adverse conditions are identified, the run-in may be modified/restricted for safety reasons, the minimum drop altitude increased, or the safety of flight review denied.

3.5.1. Terrain Hazards. Terrain hazards are naturally occurring features on the DZ surface such as steep slopes, culverts, ditches, berms, boulders, and rock outcrops which create a landing hazard to personnel or equipment. Locate the designated PI away from these hazards to the greatest degree possible and mark hazards at the discretion of the DZC and ground mission commander. Rapidly rising terrain and/or mountainous area, (as defined by International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)), within 10 NM of the DZ center point will be documented on the DZ survey. (T-2). 10 NM may not be sufficient for high altitude operations. A mountainous area is an area of changing terrain profile where the changes of terrain elevation exceed 900 meters (3000 feet) within a distance of 18.5 km (10.0 NM).

3.16.3.5. Surveyor Submission. Submit the completed AF Form 3823 for review in accordance with Chapter 2. The surveyor is responsible for the accuracy of the survey data forwarded for review. Other reviewers may add additional information to AF Form 3823. Coordinate changes to surveyor data with surveyor. (T-2).

3.16.1.3. Austere Polar DZ Surveys. Due to the austere and inaccessible nature of Polar Regions, a physical inspection of the DZ may not be possible. For polar operations, a tabletop review of the austere polar DZ performed by 109th Operations Support Squadron Weapons and Tactics (109 OSS/OSK) will be an acceptable alternative to a DZ survey. (T-2).

3.5.2. Airspace Hazards. The existence of instrument flight rules, military training routes,
visual flight rules (VFR), training routes, and slow routes and airway (Victor, Jet, or ICAO equivalent) may be hazardous to aircraft on the run-in or escape course. Document all military training routes, VFR routes, and slow routes within a 10 NM radius of the DZ center point, on block 11, remarks of AF Form 3823. (T-2).