text: Chapter 9
  ADA Platoon
  This chapter discusses the capabilities, linkages, and tactics and procedures of a generic
  ADA platoon. While the platoon is a subordinate element in every ADA system
  organization (for example, Patriot battalion/battery and C-RAM battery), the focus of
  this chapter is an ADA platoon that has traditionally been referred to as SHORAD and
  currently encompasses Avenger and C-RAM capabilities. Neither THAAD nor Patriot
  platoons are deployable and employable at the platoon level; they fight as part of the
  larger battery. The generic ADA platoon, henceforth referred to as a SHORAD platoon,
  embraces the common capabilities of these systems. When required, the unique
  capabilities of Avenger or C-RAM are identified.
  ROLES AND CAPABILITIES
  9-1. Within the context of the overarching ADA role, a SHORAD platoon detects, engages, and defeats
  short-range, low-altitude air threats to defend designated forces and other critical assets. Low-altitude air
  threats consist of UASs, fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft, cruise missiles, and RAM.
  9-2. Detection is provided by the Sentinel radar in Avenger and C-RAM units, LCMR in C-RAM units,
  and other Army sensors whose data is available through the FAAD C2 or C-RAM C2 nodes. Engagements
  of the different threats are dependent upon the platoon’s unique weapons. An Avenger platoon, with Stinger
  missiles, predominantly engages fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft and UASs (groups 2 and 3); a C-RAM
  platoon, with 20-millimeter guns, engages RAM targets.
  9-3. SHORAD platoon sensors also provide supported or affiliated units (for example, a task force)
  situational awareness of the airspace and timely, localized warning of impending attacks. The sensors can
  classify and aid in the identification of air objects, facilitating situational awareness in proximity to a
  defended area and reducing the potential of fratricide incidents. In addition, the LCMR, supplemented with
  data extracted from other Army sensors, determines predicted points of impact for RAM munitions, enabling
  in-time warnings to at-risk forces and areas through the RAM warn system.
  9-4. Though normally employed as an organic element of an Avenger battery, an Avenger platoon may also
  be employed as an independent organization, as METT-TC dictates. C-RAM normally deploys as a battery
  and is employed as a platoon. The platoon’s roles and responsibilities generally remain the same, irrespective
  of the operational tasks – offensive, defensive, or stability.
  9-5. SHORAD platoon roles and capabilities are improved in the near term with the fielding of the
  Maneuver-SHORAD capability and IFPC. The Maneuver-SHORAD capability, mounting a mix of selectable
  weapons (guns and missiles), will provide protection of Stryker and Armor BCT maneuvering forces against
  rotary- and fixed-wing aircraft and group 3 UASs. The IFPC system will provide enhanced firepower and
  extended range protection of critical, more stationary fixed assets (for example, an air base) and semi-fixed
  assets (transient structures or locations, such as assembly areas) against cruise missiles and UASs, with a
  residual capability against fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft.
  SUPPORT TO JOINT AIR AND MISSILE DEFENSE
  9-6. A SHORAD platoon, as either a subordinate element of an ADA task force/task-organized battery or
  an independent organization, provides defense of designated JFACC and JFLCC assets at strategic,
  operational, and tactical levels. These may include such key AMD equipment as U.S. Air Force and Marine
  Corps long-range surveillance radars and THAAD systems – low density, operationally critical equipment