text: Insertion and Extraction Methods
  of vegetation coverage is often as high as 80 percent. Most of the vegetation is low, averaging about 30
  inches high in flat areas, while in the wadis and at higher elevations, it can average close to 10 feet. When
  viewed from the air, the desert floor appears spotted or pockmarked in many areas. Vegetation commonly
  found in the desert includes colors ranging from pale yellow to dark gray and dark brown. Although green
  and brown are the principal colors of most desert vegetation, it is important to study the target area
  vegetation and terrain to formulate a proper vehicle camouflage plan. No one camouflage system or pattern
  will work for every desert or even different parts of the same desert. Only with detailed planning can a
  mounted detachment plan for and prepare the materials necessary to properly conceal their vehicles.
  Further Camouflage Considerations
  5-158. In preparing for desert operations, position selection, reflection reduction, and concealment are
  conditions the team must consider--
  Position Selection
  5-159. Site or position selection is of critical importance in any environment but particularly so in the
  desert. Site positions that fit into the existing ground pattern with minimum alteration to the terrain are
  ideal. The sites selected should suppress ground observation. Some areas such as valley floors might have
  sparse vegetation, but adjacent wadis could offer thicker vegetation with opportunities for defilade and
  enhanced potential for concealment from aerial threats. Day laagers should not be areas that would be
  obvious to enemy patrols. The team leader usually positions the vehicles to provide 360-degree security
  and good concealment, and to allow rapid egress from the position.
  Reflection Reduction
  5-160. Reducing surfaces that reflect light is a measure that starts in garrison before deployment. It
  involves removing mirrors and covering headlights and taillights. The windshield can be left on so that it
  provides protection from blowing sand, dust, and rocks thrown up by the vehicle in front. The other option
  is to remove the glass and have team members use eye protection. The windshield frame should not be
  removed because it provides rollover protection. Team members cover all reflective surfaces with a
  close-weaved, non-see-through cloth such as canvas or target cloth. They leave a sight portal open for
  driving. If cloth or other material is unavailable, they mix water and dirt to get mud, and apply it to the
  reflective surfaces.
  Concealment
  5-161. Usually the best way to conceal vehicles is with nets. Ideally, use the Lightweight Camouflage
  Screening System (LWCSS) in the desert. These nets provide concealment from visual, near infrared,
  radar, and target-acquisition devices. This net is not intended as a complete camouflage system as it
  depends on imitation of the ground surface, both in color and texture, to be effective. In some deserts, the
  woodland pattern would blend in better. Alternatives to using the LWCSS are--
  • Use open-weaved cloth with color patches to match the terrain in the operational area.
  This type of net might be the best choice in an area consisting mostly of sand dunes.
  • Garnish a large fishing net with burlap to suit the color of the operational area.
  • Add vegetation to this net to enhance concealment.
  5-162. In open areas, drape the net over the vehicle and slope the sides gradually to the ground. Break up
  the outline of the vehicle by placing props or poles underneath, and then intertwine vegetation into the net.
  Eliminate shadows caused by the vehicle or net. In broken country, use the drape to tie the net to some
  irregularity in the terrain such as next to a mesquite or brush mound. Break up the outline and eliminate
  shadows. After placing the net, cut and place brush into the net to add realism, texture, and similarity to the
  terrain and to help break up the outline.