text: Chapter 5
  Preparing for Short-Range Air Defense Operations
  Following the planning of the operation, the next step prepares a SHORAD unit to
  execute that operation. Preparation consists of those activities performed by units and
  Soldiers to improve their ability to execute an operation (ADP 5-0). A SHORAD
  battery may operate as part of an ADA task force or as a separate unit supporting a
  designated asset, with its platoons assigned to defend elements within that asset. This
  chapter focuses on the SHORAD battery and platoons as separate units and their
  preparatory considerations and actions in support of a BCT and its subordinate
  maneuver battalions. For information on SHORAD units operating as part of an ADA
  task force, see FM 3-01.
  INTRODUCTION
  The time that is left between finalizing the planning (with a commander's decision including the
  commander's intent and concept of operations) and the actual start of the execution of the operation
  determines how extensively and thorough the preparation can be performed. Therefore, the SHORAD battery
  commander needs to develop and communicate the commander's intent for preparation activities succinctly
  but with sufficient detail to ensure that the concept is understood by the battery and platoon leaders.
  All activities during the preparation phase are to validate the planning results by selecting and assessing
  positions for sensors, weapon systems, headquarters and C2 nodes, and routes and areas for such sites and
  their supporting elements (for example, maintenance areas). In addition, a visual inspection of all terrain
  aspects, in the actual and predicted weather conditions, will contribute to validating an adversary's projected
  COAs and the commander's own developed COAs. All validating results from this preparation phase are
  used to review, refine, and adjust, as necessary, the initial plans and develop more detailed taskings for the
  subordinate and supporting units.
  The need for continuous coordination between the SHORAD battery and its supported unit or asset,
  the SHORAD battalion, adjacent ADA units, and other air control elements cannot be overemphasized. Initial
  coordination conducted during the planning phase is a prelude to that which must be performed throughout
  the preparatory phase and subsequent execution of the operations.
  COORDINATION
  During planning, coordination of efforts between the SHORAD unit and the supported asset is
  established by the integration of the SHORAD battery commander into the BCT's operational planning
  process. The battery commander and platoon leaders continue interacting with their supported counterparts
  to advise them of the air defense capabilities they will bring in support, the current and projected air threat
  situation, and the local air defense posture. Commanders share and synchronize plans, commanders' intents,
  and operational concepts. SHORAD leaders must be cognizant of the friendly and enemy ground situation,
  while the supported commanders must be informed of the air environment and pertinent air defense
  directives. Situational information must identify who is operating where, when, and in what strength.
  SHORAD commanders must advise the supported commanders of any logistical support requirements, other
  than SHORAD-system specific items, and potential needs for force protection beyond the inherent
  capabilities in the SHORAD unit. The more frequent and thorough the interplay between the supported and
  supporting commanders, the more likely the potential for mission success.