text: Chapter 12
  Manned Aerial Reconnaissance
  12-87. Manned aerial reconnaissance units are specifically equipped, trained, and organized to conduct
  zone, area, and route reconnaissance. If properly task-organized they are capable of executing a
  reconnaissance in force. Both aviation formations are organized and trained to conduct reconnaissance in
  support of the division’s maneuver plan. Aviation units employed at the troop and squadron levels,
  particularly the air cavalry squadron, can conduct reconnaissance at distance (up to 100 km beyond the
  FLOT), across restrictive terrain, and at a high tempo (weather permitting). Aviation units can insert
  surveillance teams at, or near, observation posts. Aircrews can observe and provide security on station for
  extended times using rotation techniques if they have detailed requirements in advance. Alternatively,
  aviation units may be task-organized with ground reconnaissance assets to evaluate routes and obstacles and
  classify bridges. Units use aerial reconnaissance to cue other reconnaissance methods or sensors to specific
  areas increasing the overall information collection capability. (See FM 3-04 for more information on Army
  aviation and reconnaissance).
  Unmanned Aircraft System Aerial Reconnaissance
  12-88. UAS are best suited to execute route, zone, and area reconnaissance. UAS offer numerous
  advantages to commanders including the ability to—
  * Observe areas and objectives where terrain or a threat can hinder ground or manned aerial
  reconnaissance.
  * Operate at extended distances or extended durations, or both.
  * Maximize standoff distance to retain the element of surprise and increase force security.
  12-89. When employing UAS units must have procedures to execute a battle handover between a UAS and
  other reconnaissance assets. This could include a reconnaissance handover to another UAS platform, manned
  aircraft, or ground reconnaissance asset. Furthermore, units must have procedures in place in the event of a
  loss of data link between the UAS and its operators.
  RECONNAISSANCE BY FIRE
  12-90. Reconnaissance by fire is a reconnaissance technique in which a unit fires on a suspected enemy
  position. This technique is appropriate when time is critical and stealthy maneuver to develop the situation
  further is not possible. The fires may be either direct, indirect, or a combination of both to cause the enemy
  forces to disclose their presence by movement or return fire. The advantage of indirect fire is that it does not
  give away friendly locations and usually causes enemy forces to displace from the impact area. However,
  reconnaissance by fire may not cause a seasoned or prepared enemy force to react.
  RECONNAISSANCE UNDER LIMITED-VISIBILITY CONDITIONS
  12-91. Battlefield obscuration, fog, rain, and snow reduce visibility. Generally, reconnaissance during
  limited visibility takes more time than during periods of normal visibility. However, limited-visibility
  conditions provide better stealth and enhance the survivability of reconnaissance assets. Units frequently
  employ dismounted reconnaissance patrols at night. These patrols use light amplification devices, thermal
  observation devices, and electronic surveillance devices to compensate for reduced visibility conditions.
  12-92. Mounted reconnaissance normally focuses on road networks during limited-visibility conditions. An
  enemy force can detect engine and track noises of friendly mounted reconnaissance elements at considerable
  distances at night. This makes mounted reconnaissance elements susceptible to ambush. Strict noise and light
  discipline, along with masking sounds, such as artillery fires, help mounted reconnaissance forces avoid
  compromise or ambush.
  12-93. High winds, extreme temperature, loose topsoil, or sand may adversely affect aerial reconnaissance.
  Aerial reconnaissance units plan their missions in much the same way as ground units. They use the same
  type of operations graphic control measures and consider the same critical tasks. Aerial reconnaissance units
  organize aviation assets to accomplish missions by considering the same IPB aspects as ground forces.
  Commanders focus on air hazards to navigation and anticipated enemy air defense capabilities. (See ATP 2-
  01.3 for more information on the effects of weather and atmospheric conditions.)