text: Army Aviation Operations
  CONTINUOUS ATTACK
  3-35. To exert constant pressure on the enemy force, the battalion commander employs companies using
  the continuous attack method (figure 3-9, page 3-12). This method ensures at least one company is in the
  battle at all times. While one company is engaged in the battle, the other two companies prepare to relieve
  the engaged company by positioning at the HA or FARP, or maneuvering to the battle position or attack by
  fire position. The continuous attack method provides the commander with the most flexibility as well as the
  most efficient operation of the FARP. Depending on sustainment capabilities, operational tempo, and
  numbers of aircraft committed to an operation, an AB may be able to sustain a continuous operation for
  several days.
  Figure 3–9. Continuous attack
  PHASED ATTACK
  3-36. To exert increased firepower on the enemy force, the battalion commander employs one company as
  a shaping operation to begin attacking the enemy and then quickly phases in a second company from a
  different battle position or attack by fire position (figure 3-10). The third company is phased into the fight
  as a reserve element when either of the other companies is low on fuel or ammunition. The commander
  may choose to modify this method of employment. For example, one company may be employed to shape
  for the other companies to exploit as the main body. During the phased attack, it is important to minimize
  aircraft turnaround time at the FARP. Generally, due to FARP limitations, the phased attack eventually
  reverts to the continuous attack method. An AB typically conducts a phased attack for less than 24 hours
  and requires up to 24 hours following the operation in order to resume operations.