U.S. Joint Forces Command: Joint Meteorology & Oceanography (METOC) Handbook

U.S.
Joint Forces Command
Joint Meteorology & Oceanography

(METOC) Handbook
4th Edition
1 April 2002
Joint Metoc Handbook
Ser. J3
MEMORANDUM FOR: Distribution List (Annex Z)
1. This publication is the 4th edition of the Joint Meteorology and Oceanography (METOC)
Handbook (JMH), and hopefully is an edition more easily read and reviewed by METOC
personnel. This document is a major reorganization of the initial 1997 release (last
updated in 2000), which was compiled from inputs by Senior METOC Officers, former and
current Joint Force METOC Officers, and METOC experts in various Service organizations.
2. The Handbook reflects comments from across the METOC community: unified commands,
US Joint Forces Command’s component commands, Service headquarters, and leading Air
Force, Navy, and Marine Corps METOC organizations. The purpose of this Handbook is to
serve as a reference tool for prospective Joint Force METOC Officers (JMO) on the
infrastructure, policies, principles, and responsibilities inherent in providing joint METOC
support to the warfighter and in conducting joint METOC operations. This Handbook can also
serve as a guide for unified command Senior METOC Officers.
3. The Joint METOC Handbook does not constitute a requirements document or initial doctrine.
Joint Publication 3-59, Joint Doctrine, Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for METOC
Operations, serves as joint doctrine. This Handbook serves solely to provide the JMO, his staff,
and Service and functional component METOC units, an easy to use manual to help plan and
execute METOC support for joint operations.
4. This document is updated as required by the USJFCOM Senior METOC Officer. Point of
contact is CDR Edmond Frost, DSN 836-7851, comm. (757) 836-7851, or email
[email protected] (no attachments) or [email protected]. This handbook is a
living document and as a recipient, your comments and suggestions are welcomed.
EDMOND M. FROST MARK W. LEVSKY

Commander, U.S. Navy Lt. Col., U.S. Air Force
USJFCOM Senior METOC Officer USJFCOM Staff Weather Officer
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RECORD OF CHANGES
Change Copy Date of Date Posted By Remarks

Number Number Change Entered
ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
RECORD OF CHANGES .............................................................................................................. ii

Chapter 1 - Joint Structure and Organization .............................................................................. 1-1
1.1 Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Joint Staff....................................................... 1-1
1.1.1 Organization for National Security............................................................................ 1-1
1.1.2 Joint Staff METOC Resources................................................................................... 1-2
1.2 Unified Commands ........................................................................................................... 1-2
1.2.1 Missions ..................................................................................................................... 1-4
1.2.2 Unified Command METOC, Components, and Supporting METOC Staff
Organizations ....................................................................................................................... 1-5
Chapter 2 - Joint Planning and Task Force Formation ................................................................ 2-1
2.1 Joint Planning - Overview ................................................................................................ 2-1
2.1.1 Joint Planning for Peace and Crises........................................................................... 2-1
2.1.2 Crisis Action Planning (CAP) Procedures................................................................. 2-3
2.1.3 METOC Support during Crisis Action Planning ....................................................... 2-5
2.2 Joint Task Force Headquarters Master Training Guide.................................................... 2-6
2.2.1 JTF HQ MTG Task Steps for METOC Support Operations. .................................... 2-6
2.3 Additional Guidance ....................................................................................................... 2-10
2.3.1 Joint Publications. .................................................................................................... 2-10
2.3.2 US Joint Forces Command. ..................................................................................... 2-11
2.3.3 Joint Forces Staff College........................................................................................ 2-11
Chapter 3 - METOC Support to Joint Task Force Headquarters................................................. 3-1
3.1 Joint Task Force Headquarters METOC Support............................................................. 3-1
3.1.1 Structure..................................................................................................................... 3-1
3.1.2 Relationship. .............................................................................................................. 3-1
3.1.3 Assets. ........................................................................................................................ 3-1
3.1.4 Roles and Responsibilities. ........................................................................................ 3-1
3.1.5 METOC Support Capabilities and Requirements...................................................... 3-2
3.2 JTF METOC Support Requirements to JTF HQ Elements .............................................. 3-3
3.2.1 JTF Structure.............................................................................................................. 3-3
3.2.2 Potential METOC Support Requirements to the JTF Headquarters.......................... 3-5
3.3 Joint METOC Tools.......................................................................................................... 3-7
3.3.1 Theater METOC Products. ........................................................................................ 3-7
3.3.2 Joint METOC Forecast Unit. ..................................................................................... 3-7
3.3.3 Meteorological Equipment......................................................................................... 3-8
3.3.4 Communications and Computers............................................................................... 3-8
Chapter 4 - METOC Support to Joint Task Force Components.................................................. 4-1
4.1 JTF Component Structure ................................................................................................. 4-1
4.2 Joint Task Force Components: METOC Structure and Support ...................................... 4-2
4.2.1 JFACC (Joint Force Air Component Commander) ................................................... 4-2
4.2.2 JFLCC (Joint Force Land Component Commander)................................................. 4-4
4.2.3 JFMCC (Joint Force Maritime Component Commander) ......................................... 4-6
4.2.4 JSOTF/JFSOCC (Joint Special Operations Task Force/Joint Force Special Operations
Component Commander)..................................................................................................... 4-7
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Chapter 5 - The Senior METOC Officer........................................................................... 5-1

5.1 Job Background ................................................................................................................ 5-1
5.1.1 Billet requirements..................................................................................................... 5-1
5.1.2 Structure..................................................................................................................... 5-1
5.1.3 Relationship. .............................................................................................................. 5-1
5.1.4 Assets. ........................................................................................................................ 5-1
5.2 Job Requirements.............................................................................................................. 5-2
5.2.1 SMO Routine Duties and Responsibilities ................................................................ 5-2
5.2.2 Publication List .......................................................................................................... 5-5
5.2.3 Operations and Exercises........................................................................................... 5-5
Chapter 6 - The Joint Force METOC Officer .................................................................. 6-1
6.1 Structure............................................................................................................................ 6-1
6.1.1 Relationship. .............................................................................................................. 6-1
6.1.2 Assets. ........................................................................................................................ 6-1
6.2 Roles and Responsibilities. ............................................................................................... 6-1
6.2.1 JMO considerations and actions in planning and executing support to a JTF:.......... 6-2
6.3 Advice to the JMO. Keyword: coordinate!..................................................................... 6-6
Chapter 7 - U.S. Navy METOC................................................................................................... 7-1
7.1 Naval Forces (NAVFOR) ................................................................................................. 7-1
7.1.1 Navy Employment Concepts ..................................................................................... 7-2
7.2 Navy METOC Equipment and Key Software .................................................................. 7-3
7.3 Navy METOC Communications and Computers ............................................................. 7-4
7.4 Navy METOC Data .......................................................................................................... 7-6
7.4.1 Navy METOC Data Sources...................................................................................... 7-6
7.4.2 Navy METOC Data Products .................................................................................... 7-9
7.5 Key Naval METOC Centers and Facilities:.................................................................... 7-19
Chapter 8 - U.S. Air Force METOC ............................................................................................ 8-1
8.1 Air Force Forces (AFFOR)............................................................................................... 8-1
8.1.1 Air Force Weather Support to Joint and Air Force Organizations. ........................... 8-1
8.1.2 Air Force "Air Expeditionary Force" (AEF) ............................................................. 8-2
8.1.3 Global Power Missions. ............................................................................................. 8-6
8.1.4 AFFOR Structure and Support for Strategic Airlift................................................... 8-6
8.1.5 Air Force Weather Employment Concepts ................................................................ 8-8
8.2 Air Force METOC Equipment and Key Software............................................................ 8-9
8.2.1 Hardware.................................................................................................................... 8-9
8.2.2 Software. .................................................................................................................. 8-11
8.3 Air Force METOC Communications and Computers .................................................... 8-11
8.4 Air Force METOC Data.................................................................................................. 8-12
8.4.1 Air Force METOC Data Sources............................................................................. 8-12
8.4.2 Air Force METOC Data Products............................................................................ 8-13
8.5 Key Air Force METOC Organizations ........................................................................... 8-20
8.5.1 USAF Strategic Weather Centers ............................................................................ 8-20
8.5.2 USAF Operational Weather Squadrons and Regional Support ............................... 8-20
8.5.3 Key USAF METOC Staff Organizations ................................................................ 8-22
Chapter 9 - U.S. Army METOC .................................................................................................. 9-1
9.1 Army Forces (ARFOR)..................................................................................................... 9-1
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9.1.1 Army Employment Concepts..................................................................................... 9-3

9.2 METOC Equipment and Key Software ............................................................................ 9-4
9.2.1 Equipment and Hardware .......................................................................................... 9-4
9.2.2 Software ..................................................................................................................... 9-4
9.3 METOC Communications and Computers....................................................................... 9-5
9.4 Army METOC Data.......................................................................................................... 9-6
9.4.1 Army METOC Data Sources ..................................................................................... 9-6
9.4.2 Army METOC Data Products.................................................................................... 9-9
9.5 Key Army METOC Organizations ................................................................................. 9-10
9.5.1 Key Army organizations that may form the core for Joint Task Forces:................. 9-10
9.5.2 Key Army staff METOC organizations:.................................................................. 9-10
Chapter 10 - U.S. Marine Corps METOC ................................................................................. 10-1
10.1 Marine Corps Forces (MARFOR) ................................................................................ 10-1
10.1.1 Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF)............................................................ 10-1
10.1.2 Fleet Marine Force (FMF) METOC Structure...................................................... 10-2
10.2 USMC METOC Key Equipment and Software............................................................ 10-5
10.2.1 Meteorological Mobile Facility Replacement (MetMFR)..................................... 10-5
10.2.2 Interim Mobile Oceanographic Support System (IMOSS)..................................... 10-8
10.2.3 Software. .............................................................................................................. 10-12
10.3 USMC METOC Data.................................................................................................. 10-12
10.3.1 USMC METOC Data Sources ............................................................................. 10-12
10.3.2 USMC METOC Data Products............................................................................ 10-13
10.4 Key USMC METOC Organizations ........................................................................... 10-14
Chapter 11 - Special Operations Forces (SOF) METOC........................................................... 11-1
11.1 Special Operations Forces (SOF).................................................................................. 11-1
11.2 SOF METOC Equipment, Communications, and Key Software ................................. 11-3
11.3 SOF METOC Data........................................................................................................ 11-3
11.3.1 SOF METOC Data Sources ................................................................................... 11-3
11.3.2 SOF METOC Data Products.................................................................................. 11-3
11.3.3 Key USAF METOC Staff Organizations .............................................................. 11-4
Appendix A - Time-Phased Force and Deployment Data (TPFDD)......................................... A-1
A.1 TPFDD Planning Guidance and Formats........................................................................ A-1
A.2 TPFDD Requirements (personnel and equipment)........................................................ A-3
A.2.1 Air Force. ................................................................................................................. A-3
A.2.2 Army ........................................................................................................................ A-4
A.2.3 Navy ......................................................................................................................... A-5
A.2.4 US Marine Corps ..................................................................................................... A-5
A.2.5 Special Operations Forces (SOF)............................................................................. A-6
Appendix B - Joint Operations Planning and Execution System (JOPES) Formats ............... B-1
B.1 JOPES Volume I, Planning Policies and Procedures...................................................... B-1
B.1.1 Staff Estimate Formats ............................................................................................. B-1
B.1.2 OPLAN/OPORD/CONPLAN Formats (CJCSM 3122.03, Appendix).................... B-3
B.2 NATO/PfP (Partnership for Peace) Format .................................................................... B-8
Appendix C - METOC Impacts on Operations........................................................................... C-1
C.1 Ground Thresholds.......................................................................................................... C-1
C.2 Air Thresholds................................................................................................................. C-3
v
C.2.1 Weather Sensitivities for Air Combat Command and Marine Corps Aircraft......... C-5
C.2.2 Air Mobility Command (AMC) Operational Airdrop Limits ................................ C-10
C.3 Navy/Amphibious Thresholds ...................................................................................... C-10
C.4 Special Operations......................................................................................................... C-12
C.5 Space Weather Impacts on Systems.............................................................................. C-13
C.5.1 Space-based Systems.............................................................................................. C-13
C.5.2 Ground-based Systems........................................................................................... C-13
Appendix D - Joint Operational Area Forecast (JOAF) Examples............................................. D-1
D.1 JOAF Format................................................................................................................... D-1
D.2 JOAF Examples .............................................................................................................. D-1
D.2.1 JOAF Example 1...................................................................................................... D-1
D.2.2 JOAF Example 2...................................................................................................... D-2
D.2.3 JOAF Example 3...................................................................................................... D-4
Appendix E - METOC Letter of Instruction (LOI) Examples.....................................................E-1
E.1 METOC Letters of Instruction. ........................................................................................E-1
E.1.1 METOC LOI Example 1 ...........................................................................................E-2
E.1.2 METOC LOI Example 2 ...........................................................................................E-4
Appendix F - METOC Briefing Slides and Tools .......................................................................F-1
F.1 Joint Task Force Headquarters Command Brief Slides....................................................F-1
F.1.1 Joint Task Force Headquarters Staff Mission Planning ............................................F-3
F.2 JTF / Components (format applicable to all)....................................................................F-3
F.3 JFACC ..............................................................................................................................F-4
F.4 JFMCC / NAVFOR / MARFOR (format applicable to all) ............................................F-5
F.5 Supported CINC ...............................................................................................................F-6
F.6 Climatology ......................................................................................................................F-9
Appendix G - Reserve METOC Personnel................................................................................. G-1
G.1 Air Force ......................................................................................................................... G-1
G.1.1 Air National Guard (ANG). ..................................................................................... G-1
G.1.2 Air Force Reserve (AFRES). ................................................................................... G-1
G.2 Navy ................................................................................................................................ G-2
G.3 Joint Reserve Units ......................................................................................................... G-3
Appendix H - References............................................................................................................ H-1
H.1 Joint................................................................................................................................. H-1
H.2 Air Force ......................................................................................................................... H-1
H.3 Army ............................................................................................................................... H-2
H.4 Navy ................................................................................................................................ H-2
H.5 Marine Corps................................................................................................................... H-3
H.6 SOF ................................................................................................................................. H-3
Appendix I - Definitions ...............................................................................................................I-1
Appendix K - Acronyms and Abbreviations .............................................................................. K-1
Appendix Z - Distribution............................................................................................................Z-1
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1-1. Organization for National Security .......................................................................... 1-1

Figure 1-2. Unified Combatant Commands................................................................................ 1-3
Figure 1-3. Geographic Commander’s Area of Responsibility .................................................. 1-3
Figure 2-1. Joint Operation Planning.......................................................................................... 2-2
Figure 2-2. JOPES Deliberate Planning Process and Crisis Action Planning Process Functional
Alignment ............................................................................................................................ 2-3
Figure 2-3. Summary of the Deliberate and Crisis Planning Processes ...................................... 2-5
Figure 3-1. Typical Joint Task Force Headquarters Structure (JP 5-00.2) ................................. 3-4
Figure 4-1. Joint Task Force Component Commands ................................................................ 4-1
Figure 4-2. JFACC Organization................................................................................................ 4-3
Figure 4-3. Air Tasking Order (ATO) Planning Cycle............................................................... 4-3
Figure 4-4. JSOTF Command Arrangement............................................................................... 4-8
Figure 6-1. JTF Operation Planning Process .............................................................................. 6-2
Figure 7-1. Navy Afloat METOC Support Structure.................................................................. 7-1
Figure 7-2. Navy Battle Group Organization ............................................................................. 7-2
Figure 7-3. Navy Shore METOC Organization.......................................................................... 7-9
Figure 8-1. Weather Support to Air Force .................................................................................. 8-2
Figure 8-2. Air Force Air Expeditionary Force (AEF) Timeline................................................ 8-3
Figure 8-3. Notional Command Structure for an Aerospace Expeditionary Task Force............ 8-4
Figure 8-4. AFFOR Strategic Airlift Command Structure ......................................................... 8-6
Figure 8-5. The Air Force Weather "funnel" forecast process ................................................... 8-8
Figure 8-6. Air Force Weather Organization............................................................................ 8-13
Figure 8-7. Air Force Operational Weather Squadron Areas of Responsibility....................... 8-19
Figure 9-1. Weather Support to Conventional Army Operational Forces .................................. 9-1
Figure 9-2. ARFOR Organization............................................................................................... 9-2
Figure 10-1. Location of Fleet Marine Force Activities ........................................................... 10-2
Figure 10-2. Current FMF METOC Organization.................................................................... 10-3
Figure 10-3. IMOSS Communications Module Hardware ....................................................... 10-9
Figure 10-4. IMOSS Communications Module Hardware Configuration.............................. 10-10
Figure 10-5. IMOSS Satellite Module Components............................................................... 10-12
Figure 10-6. Marine Corps Data Sources ............................................................................... 10-13
Figure 11-1. Weather Support to Special Operations Forces ................................................... 11-1
Figure 11-2. Geographic CINC’s Special Operations Forces................................................... 11-2
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LIST OF TABLES
Table 7-1. Military SATCOM Attributes ....................................................................... 7-6

Table 8-1. Determining Lead Air Force Weather Units for Multi-Unit Missions.......... 8-9
Table 10-1. MetMF(R) Frequency Requirements ........................................................ 10-7
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Joint Meteorology and Oceanography (METOC) Handbook (JMH) was originally compiled
to provide information to participants in U.S. Joint Forces Command training exercises and
operations. The Services' METOC communities found the Handbook useful, and it is now
distributed throughout the Services to aid those who may suddenly find themselves fulfilling the
role of Joint Force METOC Officer (JMO). This document does not constitute a requirements
document or initial doctrine. This handbook intends to provide the JMO, his staff, and Service
and functional component METOC personnel, an easy to use reference manual to assist the
planning and execution of METOC support for joint operations.
The Joint METOC Handbook describes existing joint structure, how METOC personnel and
organizations are integrated into the combatant command and JTF structures, and what METOC
resources are available. Separate chapters cover METOC capabilities and support to operational
forces within Service organizational structures.
It is important to understand the joint operational planning process and how the METOC officer
fits into that process. The duties and responsibilities of the Senior METOC Officer (SMO) and
JMO and their interaction during a joint operation are important concepts. The coordination
between the JMO and his Service and functional component METOC units is vital to the success
of joint METOC operations. The concept of “one theater, one forecast,” highlighted in Joint
Publication 3-59, is the cornerstone of METOC support to a joint operation. Coordination is
critical. METOC support to the overall joint operation as well as the JTF headquarters element is
important.
Joint METOC personnel should understand the capabilities of Service level METOC equipment
and tactical and fixed communication systems for interoperability. The sources of METOC data
and available products and services from various METOC production sites and theater level
operational commands are useful for any military operation.
The appendices provide Service METOC personnel and equipment information for Time Phased
Force and Deployment Data (TPFDD) and formats for METOC inputs to Operations Plans. A
starting list of criteria for METOC impacts to operations is provided for many types of
operations; during an actual operation, METOC personnel must tailor forecasts to look highlight
impacts to the mission and its critical thresholds. Examples of Joint Operational Area Forecasts
(JOAFs), METOC Letters of Instruction (LOIs), and joint METOC briefing slides come from
previous joint operations and exercises.
METOC personnel wishing a copy of this handbook should contact their Service distribution
point, listed in Appendix Z. Additionally, the handbook is located on USJFCOM’s METOC
SIPRNET homepage, http://157.224.120.250/weathr.nsf/metoc (go to Pubs and Documents).
ix
The goal of the JMH is to provide an easy to use reference manual for all METOC personnel.
Toward that goal, the USJFCOM SMO will attempt to revise this Handbook annually, so that
new and important information can be incorporated into one document and provided to the
METOC community at large.
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1 - Joint Structure and Organization
Chapter 1 - Joint Structure and Organization
This chapter describes existing joint structure, mission, and responsibilities, and how
meteorology and oceanography (METOC) personnel and commands are integrated into the joint
arena.
1.1 Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Joint Staff
1.1.1 Organization for National Security
The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (CJCS) is the head of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the
senior-ranking member of the Armed Forces and the principal military advisor to the President.
The CJCS does not exercise military command over any combatant forces. The CJCS functions
within the chain of command by transmitting communications to the commanders of the
combatant commands from the President and Secretary of Defense [National Command
Authorities (NCA)].
The Joint Chiefs of Staff consist of the Chairman, the Vice Chairman, the Chief of Staff of the
Army, the Chief of Naval Operations, the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, and the Commandant
of the Marine Corps. The Joint Chiefs of Staff, supported by the Joint Staff, is the immediate
military staff of the Secretary of Defense. The Joint Chiefs of Staff have no executive authority
to command combatant forces. The organization for National Security is shown in Figure 1-1.
NSC
NCA
Vice
President President
NSC
Advisers
Secretary Secretary
of Defense of State
DA DON DAF
Chairman, JCS
JCS Secretary Secretary Secretary
Vice Chairman, Army Navy Air Force
JCS
Joint
Staff
CSA CNO CMC CSAF
USN USMC
USA USAF
CINC
Commander Commander Commander

Joint Task Subunified Component
Force Command Command
Operational Responsibilities Support Responsibilities

• Combatant Command • Operations Planning • Organize • Maintain
• Directive Authority • Strategic Direction • Train • Assign
• Military Advice • Equip • Support
Figure 1-1. Organization for National Security
1-1
The Joint Staff assists the CJCS with strategic direction, strategic planning, and joint operation
planning. The CJCS organizes joint planning and execution for joint operations by establishing
the supported and supporting command relationships between the combatant commands.
1.1.2 Joint Staff METOC Resources
The Joint Staff currently has two METOC billets, though both are "dual-hatted" and have
additional duties outside of METOC. JCS METOC personnel will occasionally stand watch
when a Crisis Action Team (CAT) is activated, and will deal with METOC issues involving
international organizations (e.g., WMO, NATO). Currently assigned:
• Joint Staff J-38/ROD (AF O-5 billet)

DSN: 225-0581 MSG: JOINT STAFF WASHINGTON DC//J-38/ROD//
SECURE: 225-0581 Mail: Joint Staff
COMM: 703-695-0581 J-38/ROD
FAX: (UNCLAS) 224-6690 Pentagon Room 2D921G-6
FAX: (SECURE) 227-8042 Washington DC 20318-3000
• Joint Staff J-33/JOD (Navy O-5 billet)

DSN: 225-2995
MSG: JOINT STAFF WASHINGTON DC//J-3/JOD//
SECURE: 225-2995 Mail: Joint Staff
COMM: 703-695-2995 J-33/JOD
FAX: (UNCLAS) 225-3792 Pentagon Room 2B885
FAX: (SECURE) 225-0988 Washington DC 20318-3000
• Joint Staff typically links to the Air Force Weather Agency (AFWA) and uses weather
briefings from the Air Force Operations Group (AFOG),
SIPRNET: http://ga14.af.pentagon.smil.mil:8000/afog/wx/
1.2 Unified Commands

The National Security Act of 1947 and Title 10 of the U. S. Code provide the basis for the
establishment of unified combatant commands (Figure 1-2). A unified command has broad,
continuing missions and is composed of forces from two or more military departments. The
Unified Command Plan (UCP) establishes the missions, responsibilities, and force structure for
commanders of unified combatant commands, as well as their general geographic areas of
responsibility (Figure 1-3) and functions.
1-2
PRESIDENT
SECRETARY
OF DEFENSE
Chairman of
Communications Joint Chiefs of Staff
U.S. U.S. U.S. U.S. U.S. U.S.

Southern European Northern Joint Forces Special Transportation
Command Command Command Command Operations Command
SOUTHCOM EUCOM NORTHCOM USJFCOM Command TRANSCOM
SOCOM
U.S. U.S. U.S. U.S.

Central Pacific Space Strategic
Command Command Command Command
CENTCOM PACOM SPACECOM STRATCOM
Regional Responsibilities Functional Responsibilities
Figure 1-2. Unified Combatant Commands
Forces assigned to unified combatant commands will be under combatant command of the
commanders of the unified combatant commands. Forces will be assigned to such commands by
the Secretary of Defense's memorandum entitled "Forces for Unified Commands." Except as
otherwise directed by the President or the Secretary of Defense, all forces operating within the
geographic area assigned to a unified combatant command shall be assigned or attached to the
commander of that command.
Awaiting UCP 2002 Update
Figure 1-3. Geographic Commander’s Area of Responsibility
1-3
1.2.1 Missions
USJFCOM. Provide military forces where needed throughout the world, and ensure those
forces are integrated and trained as joint forces capable of carrying out their assigned tasks.
Mission as the Joint Experimenter leverages Service efforts to move DoD toward Joint Vision
2020 and the transformation of the military. USJFCOM has one standing task force, Joint Task
Force - Civil Support (JTF-CS), which controls the military response to weapons of mass
destruction incidents in CONUS and US territories.
USNORTHCOM. Provides for Homeland Security of the United States and all military support
to civil authorities. USNORTHCOM has several standing task forces. Foremost among them
are, Joint Task Force- Homeland Security (JTF-HLS), which controls the military effort for
Homeland Security and Joint Task Force - Civil Support (JTF-CS), which controls the military
response to weapons of mass destruction incidents in CONUS and US territories.
USCENTCOM. Promote and protect U.S. interests, ensure uninterrupted access to regional
resources, assist friendly states in providing for their own security and contributing to the
collective defense, and deter attempts by hostile regional states to achieve geo-political gains by
threat or use of force.
USEUCOM. Maintain ready forces to conduct the full spectrum of military operations
unilaterally or in concert with coalition partners; enhance transatlantic security through support
of NATO; promote regional stability and advance U.S. interests in Europe, Africa, and the
Middle East.
USPACOM. Foster peace, democracy, and freedom while promoting U.S. interests in the area
of responsibility. The command serves to deter conflict through combat-ready U.S. and allied
military forces in-place or readily available, or to engage in combat if ordered by the President.
USSOUTHCOM. Strengthen democratic institutions in Central and South America by assisting

host nations in eliminating threats to their security; supporting continued economic and social
progress; assisting host nations and U.S. agencies in attacking drug production; assisting the
Government of Panama to ensure an open and neutral Panama Canal; and enhancing military
professionalism. USSOUTHCOM has a standing task force, Joint Interagency Task Force - East
(JIATF-East), which coordinates the US effort in drug interdiction.
USSOCOM. Prepare special operations forces to successfully conduct worldwide special

operations, civil affairs, and psychological operations in peace and war and in support of the
regional combat commanders, American ambassadors and their country teams, and other
government agencies.
USSPACECOM. Conduct joint space operations to include: Space Forces Support--placing

satellites in space and operating them; Space Force Enhancement--supporting the warfighter with
intelligence, communications, weather (including space weather), navigation, and ballistic
missile attack warning products; Space Force Application--applying force from or through space
1-4
against terrestrial targets; and Space Force Control--enforcing space superiority through
protection, negation, and surveillance.
USSTRATCOM. Assess the potential for, and deter, any military attack on the United States
and its allies, and should deterrence fail, employ forces to achieve national objectives.
Employment, if it should prove necessary, will include command and control of strategic forces
and providing support to other combatant command commanders.
USTRANSCOM. Provide global air, land and sea transportation to meet national security
objectives by maintaining command and control of lift forces and logistical infrastructure, setting
operational lift policy, providing crisis planning for force deployment and sustainment, providing
Joint Operations Planning and Execution System (JOPES) training worldwide, and advocating
improvements to the common user mobility systems.
1.2.2 Unified Command METOC, Components, and Supporting METOC Staff

Organizations
Most unified commands have a Senior METOC Officer (SMO) assigned, to provide and arrange
support for the command and its operations. Some of the Unified Commands had a reduction or
even totally lost in-house METOC support as part of mandated staff reductions from the past
Quadrennial Defense Review. Each unified command has Service components that provide
forces to the command. In many instances, each component has a supporting METOC
organization (component contact information is available in applicable Service chapters of this
Handbook).
USJFCOM has one METOC billets (1 Navy O-5) and four component commands: Air Combat
Command (ACC), Forces Command (FORSCOM), Atlantic Fleet (LANTFLT), and Marine
Forces Atlantic (MARFORLANT), plus three sub-unified commands: Iceland Defense Force,
U.S. Forces Azores, and Special Operations Command Joint Forces Command (SOCJFCOM).
The AF joint METOC billet is deleted as of 1FY03.
• Senior METOC Officer

DSN: 836-7851
MSG: CINCUSJFCOM NORFOLK VA//J335WX//
SECURE: 836-7851 Mail: U.S. Joint Forces Command
COMM: 757-836-7851 Senior METOC Officer/Code J335WX
FAX (unclass): 836-7766 1562 Mitscher Ave, Suite 200
FAX (secure): 836-7859 Norfolk, VA 23511-2488
EMAIL (unclass): [email protected] (no attachments)
EMAIL (secure): [email protected]
SIPRNET: http://157.224.120.250/j3/j33/j335/metochome.nsf
• Component support:
ACC Langley AFB, VA Director of Weather
FORSCOM Ft McPherson, GA Staff Weather Officer
MARFORLANT Norfolk, VA II MEF Staff Weather Officer
1-5
LANTFLT Norfolk, VA Staff Oceanographer

SOCJFCOM Norfolk, VA No METOC staff;
Support provided by Naval Atlantic
METOC Center (NLMOC) as
required.
• Supporting theater METOC forecast centers:

Naval Atlantic METOC Center (NAVLANTMETOCCEN) Norfolk, VA
26th Operational Weather Squadron, Barksdale AFB, LA.
USCENTCOM has four METOC billets (1 AF O-5, 1 AF O-4, 1Navy O-4, and 1 AF O-3) and
five component commands: U.S. Central Command Air Forces (CENTAF), U.S. Central
Command Army Forces (ARCENT), Marine Forces U.S. Central Command (MARCENT),
Naval Forces U.S. Central Command (NAVCENT), and Special Operation Forces, U.S. Central
Command (SOCCENT).
• Senior METOC Officer:

DSN: 968-6544/3021 MSG: USCENTCOM MACDILL AFB FL//CCJ3-OW//
SECURE: 968-6544/3021 Mail: US Central Command/ CCJ3-OW
COMM: 813-828-3021 7115 South Boundary Blvd
FAX (unclass): 968-6218 MacDill AFB, FL 33621-5101
FAX (secure): 968-6543
SIPRNET: http://www.centcom.smil.mil/CCJ3/ccj3ops/weather/weather2.htm
- CENTAF Shaw AFB, SC Staff Weather Officer
- ARCENT Ft McPherson, GA Staff Weather Officer
- MARCENT Camp Smith, HI Officer Addu fm MCAF
- NAVCENT Bahrain Staff Oceanographer
- SOCCENT MacDill AFB, FL Staff Weather Officer

- Naval Pacific METOC Facility Bahrain (NAVCENTMETOC FAC)
- 28th Operational Weather Squadron (28 OWS), Shaw AFB SC
USEUCOM has no METOC billets; USAFE provides, under written agreement with
USEUCOM, staff METOC support. NAVEURMETOCCEN provides a Navy METOC liaison
officer to round out the METOC staff for EUCOM. EUCOM has five component commands:
U.S. Air Forces Europe (USAFE), U.S. Army Forces Europe (USAREUR), Marine Forces
Europe (MARFOREUR), Naval Forces Europe (NAVEUR), and Special Operations Command
Europe (SOCEUR).
Note: There is a USN 1800 Officer on EUCOM staff, but that is the GIS Officer in the J2.
• EUCOM SMO (USAFE Liaison Officer)

DSN: 314-430-8146/8141
1-6
MSG: USCINCEUR VAIHINGEN GE//ECJ33-WE//

SECURE: 314-430-4111 Mail: HQ USEUCOM J33-WE
COMM: 011-49-711-680-4111 Unit 30400 Box 1000
FAX (unclass): 314-430-8451 APO AE 09128
FAX (secure): 314-430-4287
SIPRNET: http://www.eucom.smil.mil/ecj3/metoc/
Note: if unable to contact the EUCOM SMO at any of the numbers listed, please contact
USAFE/DOW at DSN 314-480-7001/7564 / comm (49) 6371-47-7001/7564.
- USAFE Ramstein AB, GE Director of Weather
- USAREUR Heidelberg, GE Staff Weather Officer
- MARFOREUR Boeblingen, GE II MEF Staff Weather Officer
- NAVEUR London, UK Staff Oceanographer
- SOCEUR Stuttgart, GE No METOC staff

- Naval European METOC Center (NAVEURMETOCCEN) Rota, SP
- USAFE Operational Weather Squadron (OWS), Sembach, GE
USPACOM has one METOC billet (1 Navy O-5) and five component commands: Pacific Air
Forces (PACAF), U.S. Army Forces Pacific (USARPAC), Marine Forces Pacific
(MARFORPAC), Pacific Fleet (PACFLT), and Special Operations Command Pacific
(SOCPAC), as well as three subordinate unified commands: Alaska Command (ALCOM), U.S.
Forces Japan (USFORJAPAN) and U.S. Forces Korea (USFORKOR).

DSN: 315-477-5740 MSG: USCINCPAC HONOLULU HI//J319//
SECURE: 315-477-5740 Mail: USCINCPAC / J319
COMM: 808-477-5740 Camp H. M. Smith HI 96861-5025
FAX (unclass): 315-474-3602
FAX (secure): N/A
SIPRNET: http://www2.hq.pacom.smil.mil/j3/j31/default.asp?tab=5
- PACAF Hickam AFB Director of Weather
- USARPAC FT Shafter Staff Weather Officer
- MARFORPAC Honolulu Officer ADDU fm MCAF
- PACFLT Pearl Harbor Staff Oceanographer
- SOCPAC Pearl Harbor No METOC Staff

- Naval Pacific METOC Center (NAVPACMETOCCEN), Pearl Harbor, HI
- Naval Pacific Meteorology Center, San Diego CA (NAVPACMETOCCEN-SD)
- Naval Pacific Meteorology Center, Yokosuka, JA (NAVPACMETOCCEN-YOKO)
- 11th Operational Weather Squadron, Elmendorf AFB, AK
1-7
- 20th Operational Weather Squadron , Yokota, Japan

- 17th Operational Weather Squadron, Hickam, HI
- Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC), Honolulu, HI
USSOUTHCOM has two METOC billets (1 AF O-5, 1 AF O-3) and five component
commands: U.S. Southern Air Forces (USSOUTHAF), U.S. Army Forces South (USARSO),
Marine Forces South (MARFORSOUTH), Atlantic Fleet (LANTFLT), and Special Operations
Forces South (SOCSOUTH).

DSN: 567-3712 MSG: USCINCSO MIAMI FL//SCJ322METOC//
SECURE: 567-3712 Mail: USSOUTHCOM SCJ322METOC
COMM: (305) 437-3712 3511 NW 91st Ave
FAX (unclass): 3744 Miami, FL 33172-1217
FAX (secure): 3745
SIPRNET: http://www.southcom.smil.mil/SCJ3/scj32/metoc/default.htm
- USSOUTHAF Davis-Monthan AFB, AZ Director of Weather
- USARSO Ft Buchanan, PR Staff Weather Officer
- MARFORSOUTH Norfolk, VA II MEF Staff Weather Officer
- NAVSOUTH Roosevelt Roads, PR OIC, NLMOD, PR
- SOCSOUTH Miami, FL No METOC staff

- 25th OWS, Davis-Monthan AFB, AZ
- Naval Atlantic METOC Center (NAVLANTMETOCCEN) Norfolk, VA
USSOCOM has deleted its two METOC billets. Two AF officers assigned for administrative
purposes to AFWA provide METOC support. SOCOM has three component commands: Air
Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC), U.S. Army Special Operations Command
(USASOC), Naval Special Warfare Command (NSWC), and one sub-unified command: Joint
Special Operations Command (JSOC).

DSN: 968-4295/2519/2331 MSG: USCINCSOC MACDILL AFB
SECURE: 968-4295 FL//SOOP-OM//
COMM: (813) 828-4295 Mail: USSOCOM/SOOP-OM
FAX (unclass): 968-2812 7701 Tampa Point Blvd
FAX (secure): 968-3139 MacDill AFB FL 33621-5323
SIPRNET: http://soop.socom.smil.mil/html/weather.html
- AFSOC Hurlburt AFB, FL Command Meteorologist
- USASOC Ft Bragg, NC Staff Weather Officer
- NSWC NAB Coronado, CA Staff Oceanographer
1-8
- JSOC Ft Bragg, NC Staff Weather Officer
• Supporting METOC forecast centers:

- Air Force Weather Agency (AFWA), Offutt AFB, NE
- Fleet Numerical METOC Center (FLENUMMETOCCEN), Monterey, CA
- Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO), Stennis Space Center, MS
- Theater Operational Weather Squadrons (AF) and METOC Centers (Navy), as
appropriate
USSTRATCOM has the largest complement of METOC billets (8: 1 Navy O-5, 1 Navy O-4, 2
AF O-4, 1 Navy O-3, 3 AF O-2), helping support STRATCOM's flying mission. STRATCOM
utilizes the strategic forces of PACFLT, LANTFLT, and ACC.

DSN: 271-5333 / 2510
MSG: USSTRATCOM OFFUTT AFB NE//J3624//
SECURE: 271-8050 Mail: USSTRATCOM/J315
COMM: 402-294-5333 913 SAC Blvd
FAX (unclass): 271-2820 Suite 1B25
FAX (secure): 271-9170 Offutt AFB NE 68113-6300
SIPRNET: http://www.gccs.stratcom.smil.mil/metoc_j3/sipr2.html

- Air Force Combat Climatology Center (AFCCC), Asheville, NC
- Fleet Numerical METOC Detachment (FLENUMMETOC Det), Asheville, NC
- Theater Operational Weather Squadrons (AF) and METOC Centers (Navy), as
appropriate
USSPACECOM has one METOC billet, a GS-12 civilian meteorologist. SPACECOM has
three component commands: Air Force Space Command (AFSPC), Army Space Command
(ARSPACE), and Naval Space Command (NAVSPACE).
• Senior METOC Officer: Mr. Mike Baker

DSN: 692-3029 MSG: USSPACECOM PETERSON AFB
SECURE: call first CO//J33W//
COMM: 719-554-3029 Mail: USSPACECOM/J33W
FAX (unclass): 692-6986 250 S. Peterson Blvd, Ste 116
FAX (secure): call Peterson AFB CO 80914-9060
EMAIL (unclass): [email protected]
EMAIL (secure): [email protected]
SIPRNET: http://www.usspace.spacecom.smil.mil/sj3/j33/j33m.htm
1-9
- AFSPACE Vandenberg AFB, CO Staff Weather Officer
- AFSPC Peterson AFB, CO Staff Weather Officer
- USA ARSPACE Colorado Springs, CO No METOC staff
- NAVSPACE Dahlgren, VA Staff Oceanographer (N5)

USTRANSCOM has 3 METOC billets (1 AF O-5, 1 Navy O-4, 1 AF O-4) and three component
commands: Air Mobility Command (AMC), Military Traffic Management Command (MTMC),
and Military Sealift Command (MSC).

DSN: 576-8406
MSG: USCINCTRANS SCOTT AFB IL//J3-ODM//
SECURE: same Mail: USTRANSCOM TCJ3-ODM
COMM: 618-256-8406 508 Scott Drive
FAX (unclass): 576-8144 Scott AFB IL 62225-5357
FAX (secure): 576-8029
Note: all phone and fax numbers (including DSN prefix) will change by early Summer 2000.
New numbers have not been assigned; old numbers will be valid for a 120-day period
following the change.
SIPRNET: https://websvr1.transcom.smil.mil/j3/mcc/wx/METOC_Home.html
- AMC Scott AFB, IL Director of Weather
- MTMC Falls Church, VA No METOC staff
- MSC Bayonne, NJ No METOC staff

- Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO), Stennis Space Center, MS
- All Air Force Operational Weather Squadrons (see paragraph 8.5.2)
- All Navy Meteorology and Oceanography (METOC) Centers (see paragraph 7.5)
1-10
2-JTF Formation and Planning
Chapter 2 - Joint Planning and Task Force Formation
References: a. Joint Pub 5-0, “Doctrine for Planning Joint Operations”, 13 April 1995.
b. Joint Pub 5-00.1, “Joint Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Joint
Campaign Planning. (Draft)”
c. Joint Pub 5-00.2, “Joint Task Force Planning Guidance and
Procedures”, 13 January 1999.
d. JP 3-33, “Joint Force Capabilities”, 13 October 1999.
e. JP 2-01.3, “Joint Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Joint
Intelligence Preparation of the Battlespace”, 24 May 2000.
f. CJCSM 3122.01, “Joint Operation Planning and Execution System,
Vol. I, Planning Policies and Procedures”, 14 July 2000.
g. CJCSM 3122.02() – “Joint Operation Planning and Execution System,
Vol. III Crisis Action Time-Phased Force and Deployment Data
Development and Deployment Execution”, 17 July 2000
h. CJCJI 3122.03, Joint Operation Planning and Execution System Vol.
II, Planning Formats and Guidance”, 6 September 2000.
i. CJCSM 3500.05 – “Joint Task Force Headquarters Master Training
Guide”, 15 April 1997.
2.1 Joint Planning - Overview

2.1.1 Joint Planning for Peace and Crises.
Joint operation planning is conducted within the chain of command that runs from the
NCA to the combatant commanders and is primarily the responsibility of the CJCS and
the combatant commanders. The Joint Planning and Execution Community (JPEC)
includes the NCA, NSC, State Department, DOD, CJCS, Combatant Commands and their
components, the Services, USTRANSCOM, and other supporting commands. Joint
operation planning includes mobilization, deployment, employment, sustainment, and
redeployment. See Figure 2-1 for an overview.
• Campaign Planning. Combatant commanders develop theater campaign plans to

implement national and theater level strategy. Campaign planning encompasses both
deliberate and crisis action planning. The campaign plan describes how a series of
joint major operations are arranged to achieve a strategic objective (e.g., Desert Storm
Campaign Plan). Campaign plans guide the development of supporting OPLANs or
OPORDs and facilitate national level coordination of strategic priorities and resource
allocation. Campaign plan models are contained in proposed Joint Pub 5-00.1, “Joint
Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Campaign Planning”.
• Deliberate Planning. Deliberate planning is conducted principally in peacetime to

develop joint operation plans for contingencies identified in strategic planning
documents. The Joint Strategic Capabilities Plan (JSCAP) apportions the forces and
2-1
identifies the minimum required deliberate plans for the combatant commander.
Plans developed during deliberate planning provide a foundation for and ease the
transition to crisis resolution. The Deliberate Planning Process has five phases:
Phase I, Initiation; Phase II, Concept Development; Phase III, Plan Development;
Phase IV, Plan Review; and Phase V, Supporting Plans (See Figure 2-2).
JOINT OPERATION PLANNING
CAMPAIGN PLANNING
DELIBERATE PLANNING CRISIS ACTION PLANNING
OPLAN CONPLAN FUNCTIONAL CAMPAIGN OPORD

with/without PLAN PLAN
TPFDD
Figure 2-1. Joint Operation Planning
- OPLANs (Operation Plan). A complete and detailed operation plan contains a

full description of the concept of operations and all required annexes and
appendixes. OPLANs are written when the contingency has a compelling
national interest, a specific threat is critical to national security, and whose scope
and nature (large scale) requires detailed prior planning.
- CONPLANs (Concept Plans). CONPLANs (with or without a TPFDD) are

operation plans in an abbreviated format, requiring considerable expansion for
conversion into an OPLAN, campaign plan, or OPORD. CONPLANs are written
for common type missions that may develop rapidly but take on many different
forms; e.g. noncombatant evacuation operations.
- Functional Plans. Functional plans involve the conduct of military operations in a

peacetime or permissive environment. These plans are developed for specific
functions or specific tasks, such as disaster relief, peacekeeping, or counter drug
operations.
• Crisis Action Planning (CAP). CAP is based on current events and is conducted in
time-sensitive situations. Forces for planning are allocated by the NCA through the
CJCS. A crisis is defined as an incident or situation involving a threat to the U.S., its
territories, citizens, military forces, and possessions or vital interests that develops
rapidly and creates a condition that commitment of U.S. military forces and resources
is contemplated to achieve a national objective. In crisis situations, formally
established CAP procedures are followed (see references above). CAP procedures
provide for the rapid and effective exchange of information and analysis, the timely
2-2
preparation of military COAs for consideration by the NCA, and the prompt
transmission of NCA decisions to supported commanders.
Threat Strategy COA Detailed

Identification Determination Development Implementation
Planning
& Assessment
JSCP APPROVED FOR

FURTHER PLANNIG
Phase III
Plan
Development
DELIBERATE
PLANNING Phase II
Concept
Phase IV
Plan
PROCESS Develoment Review
Phase V
Phase I Supporting
Initiation Plans
CRISIS ACTION WARNING ALERT EXECUTE

PLANNING PROCESS ORDER ORDER ORDER
Phase I Phase II Phase III Phase IV Phase V

Situation Crisis COA COA Execution Phase VI
Development Assessment Development Selection Planning Execution
Figure 2-2. JOPES Deliberate Planning Process and Crisis Action Planning Process
Functional Alignment
- Operation Order (OPORD). OPORDs are created during crisis action planning
using prescribed formats. They are in the form of a directive issued by a
commander to subordinate commands to effect the coordinated execution of an
operation.
• Joint Operations Planning and Execution System (JOPES). JOPES is policies and
procedures that guide joint operation planning efforts. Detailed policies, procedures,
planning formats, and guidance are contained in JOPES Vol I, II, and III as
referenced above.
2.1.2 Crisis Action Planning (CAP) Procedures
• Phase I - Situation Development. The focus of this phase is on the combatant

commander in whose areas the event occurs and who will be responsible for the
execution of any military response. The initial report of the incident may be reported
by the combatant commander or from the National Military Command Center. The
supported commander prepares and submits an assessment of the event to the NCA
and the CJCS. The assessment includes amplifying information regarding the
situation, actions being taken, forces available, expected time for commitment of
forces, and major constraints on the employment of forces.
2-3
• Phase II - Crisis Assessment. The NCA, CJCS and other members of the Joint Chiefs
of Staff analyze the situation through available intelligence and determine whether a
military option should be prepared. The crisis assessment phase ends with a strategic
decision by the NCA to return to pre-crisis situation or to have military options
developed for consideration and possible use.
• Phase III - COA Development. The COA development phase implements an NCA
decision or CJCS planning directive to develop military options. The CJCS issues a
planning guidance directive to the supported commander directing the preparation of
COAs. Normally the directive will be a CJCS WARNING ORDER. The directive
establishes command relationships and identifies the mission and any planning
constraints. In response to the directive, the supported commander develops and
analyzes COAs. Joint operation plans are reviewed for applicability and used when
needed. Supporting commanders, subordinate joint force commanders, and
component commanders begin TPFDD development. USTRANSCOM reviews the
proposed COAs and prepares deployment estimates. The supported commander
analyzes the COAs and submits his recommendations to the NCA and the CJCS.
This phase ends with the submission of the supported commander’s estimate.
• Phase IV - COA Selection. The focus of this phase is on the selection of a COA by
the NCA and the initiation of execution planning. The CJCS reviews and evaluates
the COAs provided in the supported commander’s estimate and prepares
recommendations and advice for consideration by the NCA. The NCA selects a COA
and directs that execution planning be accomplished. Upon the NCA decision, the
CJCS issues a CJCS ALERT ORDER implementing the NCA decision. The ALERT
ORDER describes the COA in sufficient detail to allow the supported commander
and other members of the JPEC to conduct the detailed planning to deploy forces. In
some cases, a PLANNING ORDER initiates the execution of planning activities
before the NCA selects a COA.
• Phase V - Execution Planning. An NCA approved COA is turned into an OPORD

during the execution phase. Actual forces, sustainment resources, and strategic
mobility resources are identified and the concept of operations is described in
OPORD format. Following CAP procedures and using capabilities provided through
JOPES, the supported commander develops the OPORD and supporting TPFDD by
modifying an existing OPLAN, expanding an existing CONPLAN (with or without a
TPFDD), or developing a new plan. Supporting commanders identify and task
specific units and provide movement requirements. Component commanders identify
and update sustainment requirements in coordination with the Services.
USTRANSCOM develops transportation schedules. CJCS monitors execution
planning and reviews the supported commander’s OPORD. This phase terminates
when the NCA decides to implement the OPORD.
2-4
• Phase VI - Execution. The execution phase begins when the NCA decides to execute
a military option in response to the crisis. A military response is implemented and the
supported commander conducts operations until crisis resolution. The CJCS
EXECUTE ORDER directs the deployment of forces and employment of forces,
defines the timing for the initiation of operations, and conveys guidance. The
supported CINC issues an EXECUTE ORDER to subordinate and supporting
commanders. The execution phase continues until the crisis terminates or the mission
terminates and force redeployment is completed.
Figure 2-3. Summary of the Deliberate and Crisis Planning Processes
2.1.3 METOC Support during Crisis Action Planning
METOC personnel must be involved in every CAP phase. METOC resources may be
required on very short notice to help assess the crisis, determine and make known to
decision makers the impact of the environment on possible courses of action, and to
provide forecasts for the execution area.
• Phase I. During Situation Development, any major METOC constraints on the

employment of forces should be considered. This includes current and forecast
METOC conditions in the crisis area, climatological factors, the space environment,
the suitability of sites for employment of forces, and the degree of accuracy and
limitations of forecast products.
• Phase II. During Crisis Assessment, METOC conditions are monitored while the
NCA and CJCS assess the situation. The CINC Senior METOC Officer should
interact with the Joint Staff METOC officers at this time. A “first cut”
2-5
communication concept can be developed at this time, with emphasis on

communications capabilities both into and out of the theater and between the
components. METOC support can help determine if/when military action should
begin, or how environmental conditions could impact the potential military
operations.
• Phase III. COA development involves Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield and
preparation of the Intelligence Estimate and the Commander’s Estimate. (Formats for
these two documents are in Appendix C of this handbook). Climatological and
environmental databases must be searched and summarized for operational planners.
Senior METOC personnel must work closely with the Intelligence section to provide
the impacts of METOC on the COA. Within OPSEC constraints, liaison with
component commands (including theater SOCs), to coordinate METOC requirements
for personnel and equipment. TPFDD development begins.
• Phase IV. During COA Selection, continue monitoring METOC conditions and
TPFDD development. This phase is a time for communication between the planners
and the proposed subordinates who will be tasked to carry out the plan. This is also a
critical time for communication between the CINC Senior METOC Officer (SMO),
the Joint Force METOC Officer (JMO), on the staff of the Joint Force Commander or
to be assigned, and Service component METOC planners, who will provide
personnel, resources, and services to support the planned operation. The SMO and
the JMO can discuss manning requirements for the JTF HQ and functional JTF
component commands. Liaison with METOC Forecast Centers for initial products
and services for the joint operation area.
• Phase V. The OPORD is developed during the Execution planning phase. Formats
for the required METOC inputs (Annex H and other annexes) to the OPORD are
contained in Appendix B. Actual forces are identified at this time. Coordinate with
supporting commands for identification of METOC personnel and equipment.
Liaison with subordinate METOC planners to identify any shortfalls in personnel and
equipment.
• Phase VI. During the execution phase, the JMO assembles his organization and
implements METOC operations. Real-time observations and forecasts will be critical
during the execution phase. The EXECUTE ORDER will deploy forces and
commence operations. The CINC SMO and JTF JMO chapters detail the duties and
responsibilities during the execution phase of a joint operation.
2.2 Joint Task Force Headquarters Master Training Guide
2.2.1 JTF HQ MTG Task Steps for METOC Support Operations.
The JTF HQ MTG is a Joint Staff sponsored document written and updated every three
years by U.S. Joint Forces Command and used to train JTF staffs. This section is taken
2-6
from Task Number 215J and is assigned to the JTF METOC Officer (JMO) and related to
Universal Joint Training List (UJTL) Tasks OP 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, and 2.5.
TASK 215J: Develop Operations Estimate - METEOROLOGICAL &

OCEANOGRAPHIC (METOC) SUPPORT OPERATIONS
ELEMENT: J2/J3/METOC Officer

(JMO)
(Relates to UJTL Task OP 2.2, 2.3, 2.4,
Joint Task Force Planning Process
2.5)
CJTF Planning COA
Guidance Selection
MTG TASK SITUATION: The JTF has MA Cdr’s Est
been assigned a mission from the CINC.

Brief Brief
JPG JTF Mission JTF COA JTF COA JTF COA Plan/Order
A Joint Planning Group has been

Analysis Development Analysis Comparison
Development
Draft
assembled and the planning of an Plan or

OPORD
operation is beginning. The Joint Task Other

JTF
Staff
Force METOC Officer (JMO) has been Staff Estimates
assigned.
MTG TASK PURPOSE: To provide meteorological and METOC

oceanographic (METOC) input into a JTF’s planning effort.
METOC
METOC incorporates all facets of meteorological, Situation
Analysis
oceanographic, and space environmental phenomena from the Develop
bottom of the earth’s oceans to the space environment. The JTF METOC Spt
Options
use of Service component METOC assets, as well as Service- Analyze
Staff
Estimate
Process
METOC Spt
unique assets that support the components, must enhance joint Options
planning and execution of operations. Climatology, real-time Compare

METOC Spt
data, and accurate forecasts are considered in a manner that Options
Develop
supports the campaign or major operation and prepares the JTF METOC Spt input
Plan or
Order
to exploit environmental windows of opportunity. The structure to OPORD
of this input is the same as the overall planning processes

described in this MTG. See the references below for task detail.
REFERENCES: JP 2-0, JP 3-0, JP 3-59, JP 5-00.1 , JP 5-00.2; US Joint Forces Command

Joint METOC Handbook
MTG TASK STEPS
1. Contribute to JTF’s overall mission analysis (Task 215J-01-JMO)

a. Determine known facts, current status, or MA
conditions. Brief
(1) Conduct an initial METOC analysis. Provide
past, present, and future states of space, air, and METOC JTF Mission
Situation Analysis
ocean environments to JTF staff. Consider Analysis
climatology of operational area, observations, and Understanding the
JTF’s mission
forecasts, including forecast product accuracy and
2-7
limitations.
(2) Provide METOC input into the Joint Intelligence Preparation of the
Battlespace.
(3) Provide METOC input to the Joint Planning Group (JPG).
(4) Provide METOC input to the J4/JLRC affecting logistics.
(5) Provide METOC input to the J6/JCCC affecting communication.
b. Develop assumptions to replace missing or unknown facts.
(1) Consider effects of METOC in operational area.
(2) Determine status of friendly METOC support.
(3) Identify METOC data requirements for METOC support operations.
c. Analyze the CINC’s mission and intent from a METOC perspective.
d. Determine limitations caused by METOC conditions.
(1) Things the JTF’s METOC forces must do (constraints).
(2) Things the JTF’s METOC forces cannot do (restraints).
(3) Others (e.g., use of riot control agents--see CJCSI 3110.07 for advance
authorization to use these agents).
e. Identify tasks to be performed by joint METOC forces.
(1) Determine specified tasks.
(2) Determine implied tasks.
(3) From (1) and (2) above, determine essential tasks.
f. Conduct an initial METOC force structure analysis. Determine shortfalls in forces
or capabilities, which will impact the conduct of METOC support operations.
g. Conduct an initial risk assessment based on METOC conditions.
h. Assist in development of the mission analysis briefing for the CJTF.
2. Receive CJTF planning guidance (Task 215J-02-JMO). CJTF should provide

guidance at this point (see Task 202). Planning guidance should be disseminated to
METOC personnel and the components. If needed, ask the CJTF for any guidance
necessary for continued planning.
3. Develop METOC support options to the JTF’s courses of action (Task 215J-03-
JMO). The JTF staff should now develop multiple friendly COAs. METOC personnel
should advise JTF planners on how METOC conditions impact each developing JTF
COA. See Task 206 for more information.
a. Determine METOC impacts on land forces, air
forces, maritime forces, special operations forces, and Develop JTF COA
METOC Spt Development
space operations conducting maneuver, firepower, Options
protection, support, and establishment of command & Ways to accomplish
control. the mission
b. Test the validity of each COA. Conduct a

preliminary test for feasibility within the constraints of the physical environment.
c. Provide input to other staff estimates:
(1) Prepare METOC input to the Intelligence Estimate. Provide METOC
characteristics of area of operations and effect on military operations.
(2) Prepare METOC input to the Operations Estimate. Provide METOC impacts
on combat and supporting operations.
2-8
(3) Prepare METOC input to the Logistics Estimate. Provide METOC impacts
on logistics situation (key installations, transportation routes).
(4) Prepare METOC input to the Command, Control, Communications, and
Computers (C4) Estimate. Provide METOC impacts on C4 systems (line of sight,
satellite (SATCOM), UHF SATCOM, ground mobile command post, Defense
Satellite Communications System (DSCS) ground mobile segment, and Defense
Communications System (DCS) interface).
d. Provide input to JTF COA statement and sketches.
e. Coordinate support options with the CINC Senior METOC Officer (SMO),
Service METOC planners, and METOC Forecast Centers (MFCs) as appropriate.
4. Participate in COA analysis (war-gaming) (Task 215J-04-JMO). Be prepared to

contribute to the process of war-gaming by mentally “fighting the battle” in time and
space. The process may use the structure of action-reaction-
counteraction sequences for critical events (e.g., D-Day actions). JTF COA
a. METOC impacts on critical events and decision points. War gaming Analysis
b. METOC impacts on the duration and timing of critical
events. Analyze
c. Opportunities for deception and surprise using expected METOC Spt
Options
METOC conditions.
d. METOC impacts on high payoff targets.
e. METOC impacts on required reconnaissance and surveillance.
f. METOC impacts on required logistics support and constraints.
g. METOC impacts on communications requirements.
5. Participate in COA comparison (Task 215J-05-JMO). Provide quantitative impact

of METOC conditions on the COAs.
a. Participate in determining the criteria to be used for
comparing COAs. Criteria could come from: Comparing
COAs against JTF COA
(1) Commander’s intent. a selected set of Comparison
(2) Factors of METT-T: criterion
(a) Mission accomplishment.
(b) Enemy. Compare
METOC Spt
(c) Terrain and Weather Options
(d) Troops available.
(e) Time available.
b. Ensure that recommendations for METOC have been coordinated with
components of the JTF, as well as the CINC SMO, the Service METOC planners, and
MFCs, as appropriate.
6. Receive CJTF’s decision on COAs (Task 215J-06-JMO). The CJTF may select or
modify the recommended COA. Based on that decision, the Commander’s Estimate
document (or slides) will normally be sent/briefed to the CINC for approval.
7. Develop Annex H and METOC perspective in JTF plan/order (Task 215J-07-

JMO). After the COA is selected the plan/order is physically developed. Most of the
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information needed for this task should have already been developed through the estimate
process (mission analysis through COA selection). METOC input can be in many
sections of the plan/order. See Task 210 for the joint
(JOPES) plan/order format.
Writing JTF Plan/
a. Prepare Annex H. Document METOC CONOPS and & issuing Order Devel
task coordination (use a Letter of Instruction (LOI) to directives Plan or
provide additional information, if necessary). Order
b. Provide METOC input to Annex B. Identify METOC

Develop
characteristics of, and impacts to, the operational area. METOC spt
Input
c. Provide METOC input to Annex C. Identify METOC
conditions relating to conduct of combat and supporting
operations.
d. Provide METOC input to Annex D. Identify transportation and logistic
requirements for METOC support operations.
e. Provide METOC input to Annex J. Indicate channels for command and control of
METOC operations if different from the command relationships outlined in the Basic
Plan or Annex J.
f. Provide METOC input to Annex K. Identify METOC initial and sustaining
communications requirements.
g. Provide METOC input to Annex M. Identify METOC GIS requirements. This is
important to identify those elements of METOC information that is expected to be on
the Commanders Common Relevant Operating Picture (CROP)
g. Provide METOC input to Annex N. Identify METOC space requirements.
h. Provide METOC input to the Basic Plan. Use “Coordinating Instructions” to include
instructions common to two or more components or subdivisions, and “Administration and
Logistics” for broad guidance on how logistics and administration support for METOC
forces is to be furnished (can reference Annex D).
i. Coordinate (during execution planning) with supporting commands and METOC
planners to identify and task METOC personnel and equipment.
2.3 Additional Guidance

2.3.1 Joint Publications.
Joint publications provide guidance on JTF formation, planning, and operations. Access
to the Joint Electronic Library (JEL) is available through the NIPRNET
(http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine) or
SIPRNET (http://nmcc20a.nmcc.smil.mil/~dj9j7ead/pages/doctrine/jel/ )
• JP 0-2, Unified Action Armed Forces (UNAAF), discusses functions of DoD, the
Joint Chiefs, and the Services at a top level
• 5-series provides guidance on planning
- JP 5-0 provides an overview of joint planning, including mobilization and
employment planning, types of plans and orders, and deliberate versus crisis
action planning
- JP 5-00.2 outlines JTF planning guidance and procedures, as well as JTF and
component functions and responsibilities
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- CJCSM 3122-series (Joint Operation Planning and Execution System contains

formats for such documents as deployment and warning orders, Commander's
Estimate of the Situation, etc.
• 3-series covers joint operations, covering the entire spectrum of war, including
multinational operations and specific areas, such as air and amphibious operations,
interdiction, close air support, reconnaissance, and meteorological and oceanographic
operations (JP 3-59)
2.3.2 US Joint Forces Command.
The USJFCOM J-7 Training Directorate acts as a lead in developing and refining joint
doctrine, and has initiatives underway to improve availability of joint training and lessons
learned to improve JTF formation and planning processes. Refinements to joint doctrine
and information on specific functions of JTFs are available online on the
NIPRNET (http://www.jtasc.acom.mil), with more information available on
SIPRNET (http://www.jwfc.jfcom.smil.mil/home.html).
2.3.3 Joint Forces Staff College.
JFSC publishes the "Purple Book", The Joint Staff Officer's Guide, which is a
comprehensive, overall guide to DoD organization and joint staff guidance. The volume
includes information on the Joint Staff, combatant commands, staff work, a survey of key
joint publications, and overviews of the deliberate and crisis action planning processes,
including formats for important documents (e.g., Intelligence Estimate, Commander's
Estimate of the Situation, OPORDs, etc.) The Guide, known officially as AFSC Pub 1, is
available through the Superintendent of Documents, US Government Printing Office,
Washington DC 20402, or from the school at Armed Forces Staff College, Joint and
Combined Staff Officer School, ATTN: Pub 1 Coordinating Editor, 7800 Hampton Blvd,
Norfolk VA 23511-1702. The Guide is also available online at
http://www.afsc.edu/pub1/afsc0000.htm (NIPRNET) or on SIPRNET at Joint Electronic
Library under Other Publications. A .PDF (Adobe Acrobat) version is available on the
USJFCOM METOC SIPRNET homepage,
http://157.224.120.250/j3/j33/j335/metochome.nsf (Pubs & Documents on the left frame,
then scroll down on the right hand frame). PDF and html versions are also available on
the Joint METOC CD published by the U.S. Joint Forces Command METOC branch.
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3-JTF HQ METOC Support
Chapter 3 - METOC Support to Joint Task Force

Headquarters
This chapter summarizes the structure of a Joint Task Force headquarters and the types of
METOC support that might be required by its various elements (J-codes, boards, and centers).
3.1 Joint Task Force Headquarters METOC Support

3.1.1 Structure.
The JTF METOC organization may range in scope from a small briefing cell to a full-function
METOC forecast activity. With the current emphasis on minimizing the footprint of US forces
forward, the size of the JTF staff and thus the allowable number of JTF METOC personnel
collocated with the headquarters will be small. Economy of force will normally dictate the use
of METOC Regional Centers to provide products and services that the JTF HQ METOC
personnel will be unable to provide.
3.1.2 Relationship.
JTF METOC personnel report to the Joint Force METOC Officer (JMO; see Chapter 6), who is
responsible for the direction and coordination of METOC activities under the Joint Force
Commander's Operational Control (OPCON). OPCON is the authority exercised by
commanders at or below the combatant command, to organize and employ commands and
forces, assign tasks, designate objectives, and give authoritative direction necessary to
accomplish the mission; it does not include authoritative direction for matters of administration,
discipline, internal organization, or unit training.
3.1.3 Assets.
Variable, depending on scope of the organization and assigned responsibilities.
3.1.4 Roles and Responsibilities.
As assigned to directly support CJTF/JMO.

• To the maximum extent allowable, produce products and forecasts (e.g., the Joint Operations
Area Forecast, JOAF) to support ongoing operations and give METOC guidance to the
components.
• Assist the JMO in providing full spectrum support to the JTF HQ staff, boards, and centers.
• Functionally coordinate METOC data and product support from externally tasked assets per
Annex H.
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3.1.5 METOC Support Capabilities and Requirements.
Will vary with scope of JTF’s mission and Service requirements:
• Considerations
- Customer backbone communications and data collection
- Minimum numbers of personnel and appropriate equipment available
> Contingency manning (no days off). Additional manning required for long term
events
• Manning. Will vary depending on the scope of the operation. Recommend augmentees
from Services apart from that of the JTF Commander. As a minimum per shift:
- Air Force officer/forecaster with JFACC/AOC experience
- Air Force officer/forecaster with Army/ground experience
- Oceanographer and/or Navy forecaster
- USMC officer/forecaster (Depending on scope of MARFOR involvement)
• METOC-related duties to support JTF Headquarters. Assist in assessing METOC impacts

to ongoing and planned operations:
- Prepare/present briefings
- Prepare SITREP input
- Provide climatological information to staff
- Assist in developing Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield (IPB) products
- Attend briefings and provide decision assistance to planners
- Pass local weather warnings advisories to staff
- Develop a collection strategy and manage collection program
- Obtain support for JTF/METOC (e.g. Admin, Log)
- Validate special support requests of combat echelons
- Assist JTF staff to fill METOC force needs/shortfalls (e.g. Comm, Personnel, Log)
- Stay abreast of ongoing and planned operations and potential METOC impacts.
• METOC duties. These duties will depend on personnel manning, equipment, connectivity,
and location of METOC assets. The JMO should ensure the following are accomplished,
whether by JMO or other designated METOC assets:
- Obtain and analyze METOC data (all types)
- Prepare and disseminate JOAF and Discussion (2-4 x per day)∗
- Prepare and disseminate special support products
- Prepare and disseminate AR forecasts
- Prepare and disseminate JOA Hazards and NEPH prognoses
- Metwatch forecast areas
- Amend/update products, as required
- Perform QC of products
• ∗ The JOAF is the cornerstone of the “One Theater, One Forecast Concept”. This forecast
belongs to the JMO an the JMO is the responsible for it, regardless of who drafts it. This
forecast is not issue without JMO approval.
3-2
- Interface with C4 Systems

- Operate METOC communication net, if one has been established
3.2 JTF METOC Support Requirements to JTF HQ Elements
3.2.1 JTF Structure.
Organization of the Joint Task Force is up to the JTF Commander. A JTF may be built by
augmenting a core organization (e.g., XVIII Airborne Corps, II Marine Expeditionary Forces) or
ad hoc from various "contributors"; additionally, it may have select Service components,
subordinate joint task forces, and/or functional components. The JTF Commander will also
determine what joint boards, centers and cells will meet--each of which may require METOC
support. Figure 3-1 depicts the doctrinal organization of a JTF headquarters.
3-3
Figure 3-1. Typical Joint Task Force Headquarters Structure (JP 5-00.2)
3-4
3.2.2 Potential METOC Support Requirements to the JTF Headquarters.
The JMO, or his representative, should visit each of the elements within the JTF headquarters to
determine METOC support requirements. This section highlights the roles of the various JTF J-
codes and boards and centers, and potential METOC support required by each.
3.2.2.1 J1/JIB (Personnel/Joint Information Bureau). Daily forecasts.
3.2.2.2 J-2/JIC (Intelligence/Joint Intelligence Center)
• Assets
- Joint Deployable Intelligence Support System (JDISS)
- National Technical Means (NTM) imagery analysis from Naval Oceanographic Office or
other sources.
- Ability (through CINC) to task National collection assets as required
- Global Command and Control System (GCCS)
• Roles and Responsibilities

- Provide METOC Essential Elements of Information (EEIs) during mission planning
phase
- JMO SCI access, possibly SPECAT access, required
- Monitor spot reports for directly-reported or implied weather data/impacts
- Provide METOC input to INTSUM
- Provide communications access to Special Weather Intelligence (SWI) data.
• METOC Requirements
- Briefings
- Collection management impacts (cloud-free forecasts, etc.)
- IPB (friendly and enemy impacts to operations)
3.2.2.3 J-3/JOC (Operations/Joint Operations Center)
• Provide 24-hour watch personnel in the JOC

• Prepare and present briefings
• Warfighting impacts
• 0-24 hour (short range) planning forecasts. Focused on situational awareness - what is going
on now and in the near future, and the impact upon ongoing operations
• 24-XX hour (long range) planning forecasts
• Answer METOC Requests for Information (RFIs)--generate RFIs when required
• Contribute to or manage the Common Operational Picture (COP) on GCCS
• Participate in collaborative planning as required
3.2.2.4 J-4/LRC (Logistics/Logistics Readiness Center) and Medical/Surgeon
• Sea/Air POE/POD and en route weather

• Intra-theater weather (trafficability and air impacts)
3-5
• Human factors (wind chill, heat indices, etc.)

• Host nation agreements with respect to METOC support
3.2.2.5 J-5(J-3 Plans)/Joint Planning Group (JPG)
• 24+ hour planning forecasts. Focused on medium and long range forecasts, used to determine
the feasibility (due to weather and space environment impacts) of planned operations. If the
weather will be detrimental, then a determination to delay or follow alternate courses of
action must be made.
3.2.2.6 J-6/JCSE (Communications/Joint Communications Support Element)
• Weather impacts on comm equipment using various portions of the electro-magnetic

spectrum
• May include day/night HF propagation conditions; rain rate impacts on SHF & EHF
communications systems; or ducting of UHF & VHF signals; x-ray flare and geomagnetic
effects on HF propagation and scintillation effects on satellite communications and GPS
navigation
3.2.2.7 JPOTF (Joint Psychological Operations Task Force). Psychological operations are
activities designed to persuade or influence a target audience to accept or support United States
(or Coalition) efforts to assist the local population and/or authorities. This is accomplished
through such varied activities as leaflet drops, radio and TV broadcasts, loudspeaker operations,
handbills and posters.
• METOC requirements: PSYOPS units are normally attached to conventional units and
receive weather support from the conventional unit weather team. However, a SOWT-
element may deploy with the PSYOPS unit to provide target area forecasts, surface and
upper air, in support of these operations. These teams have a critical need for upper air data
to provide accurate forecasts for leaflet drop operations.
3.2.2.8 JSAR (Joint Search and Rescue)/CSAR (Combat Search and Rescue)
• High resolution satellite imagery. Computer derived SAR forecasts are available to assist
over water search patterns from NAVFOR METOC.
3.2.2.9 JTCB (Joint Target Coordination Board). Chaired by the JTF Deputy Commander,
composed of component commanders or their representatives, to determine/assign target sets for
use in planning of the joint forces campaign. The JFACC’s ATO target lists for the next several
cycles (72+ hours) are typically addressed in detail. Target sets, or specific targets, may be
assigned to elements of the joint force (JFACC & JSOTF in particular) for planning and
execution.
• Stand-up briefing at the daily meeting. Should touch on METOC impacts to operations and
reconnaissance for the next four to five days including impacts due to space weather.
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3.3 Joint METOC Tools

3.3.1 Theater METOC Products.
The JTF METOC cell (or, alternatively, the Joint METOC Forecast Unit, JMFU) may want or
need to develop METOC products such as those listed below for their customers, or have a
regional or major forecast center produce supporting products. Additional products required by
the functional components (e.g., the JFACC, JFMCC, JFLCC, etc.) are detailed in Chapter 4,
JTF Component METOC Support. Additionally, the JTF METOC cell may need to maintain a
capability to produce component METOC products, in case a component command "goes
down".
• Joint Operational Area Forecast (JOAF)

• Drop Zone Forecast
• Weapons Performance
• Air Refueling (AR) Route Forecasts
• Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts (TAFs)
• Mission Planning Forecasts (MPFs)
• Mission Control Forecasts (MCFs)
• Lower and Upper Level Horizontal Weather Depiction (HWD)
• Significant Weather Prog
• Electro-optics Bulletin
• Surface Analysis
• Specialized Support Bulletins (as requested)
3.3.2 Joint METOC Forecast Unit.
Consistent with the scope and mission of the joint force, the JMO via the J-3 recommends to the
CJTF the establishment, manning, and location of the JMFU. THE CJTF determines if there
is a need for a JMFU. The CINC, then designates from existing resources, the forces that will
compose the JMFU. The Senior METOC Officer (SMO) acting as the Action Officer for the
CINC, may select a location for a Joint METOC Forecast Unit (JMFU) in the absence of a JMO,
either because a CJTF has not yet been named or a JTF will not be established. The JMFU may
be established from existing resources or as a new organization within the Joint Force
Organization. Most often, the JMFU is established within the JTF HQ METOC cell (afloat or
ashore), or as a cell within any of the theater METOC facilities available (e.g., the Naval
European METOC Center or the USAFE Operational Weather Squadron in Europe) with
appropriate augmentation from other services. The JMFU should integrate and maintain the
METOC database for the Joint Operations Area (JOA), and will most likely manage the JTF
NIPRNET/SIPRNET homepage(s).
• A "virtual" JMFU may be useful: products are produced by JTF and component METOC
personnel, and/or by METOC personnel located at a regional forecast center in a rear area,
and are hosted on a server at a designated regional METOC center for all to access.
3-7
Homepage (and database) management is handled by experienced webmasters at the

centralized facility.
• Reach-back Forecast Capability. Air Force Weather reengineering and the concept of reach-
back has modified how the USAF provides or arranges for "one theater, one forecast" or "one
operation, one forecast". Traditionally, the term JMFU implied a single, forward-deployed,
operational level facility. Alternatively, using reach-back, METOC planners can minimize
the forward-deployed footprint by reaching back to Air Force and Navy regional centers not
located in the JOA or AOR for operational level products and services; these centers need
joint augmentation to satisfy joint operational requirements.
• Using collaborative planning tools and networked communication pathways, a “distributed”

JMFU can be established where the personnel and equipment making up the JMFU may be
widely dispersed. This can bring the full spectrum of METOC expertise into the JMFU.
• If a regional forecast center is used as a JMFU, it is important to follow Joint Doctrine TTP
and establish a cell within the center as the JMFU, rather than the entire center. The JMO is
responsible for tasking and directing the JMFU for the CJTF and this eliminates any OPCON
or Chain of Command problems, particularly with centers not located in the CINC’s AOR.
3.3.3 Meteorological Equipment
3.3.3.1 Joint METOC equipment. METOC equipment available to the JTF METOC cell will
vary, based on the mission and required capabilities at the JTF HQ. Most tactical-level METOC
equipment will be located at and below the JTF component level. The JTF METOC cell at a
minimum requires computers with NIPRNET/SIPRNET connectivity and access to the Global
Command and Control System (GCCS). Depending upon the communications requirements,
secure VTC, collaborative planning tool sets and secure voice communications may be needed.
3.3.3.2 Service METOC equipment. Brief descriptions of tactical meteorological equipment can
be found in the Service chapters of this Handbook, as well as in an Appendix of Joint Pub 3-59
(http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/operations.htm or
http://nmcc20a.nmcc.smil.mil/~dj9j7ead/pages/doctrine/jel/new_pubs/jp3_59.pdf) and the
Federal Directory of Mobile Meteorological Equipment and Capabilities, published by the Office
of the Federal Coordinator for Meteorological Services and Supporting Research
(http://www.ofcm.gov/Homepage/text/pubs_linx.htm).
3.3.4 Communications and Computers
This section describes joint command and control, communications, computers systems, and
infrastructure. The discussion is conceptual in nature and highlights DoD's approach toward
developing joint collaboration tools the common operational picture (COP).
• The DII and Joint Technical Architecture. The Defense Information Infrastructure (DII)
provides a seamless, global, standards-based end-to-end joint command and control
architecture that provides assured, flexible and affordable information services to the
3-8
warfighter. The DII encompasses the resources to accomplish information transfer and
processing. Information transfer and processing includes data management and storage,
information management, computers, communications, applications, security, people,
training, and support. The DII is managed by the Defense Information Systems Agency
(DISA) under the sponsorship of the Joint Staff. The DII architecture encompasses the Joint
Technical Architecture (JTA), DII Common Operating Environment (COE), DISN, GCCS,
and GCSS. The Joint Technical Architecture (JTA) mandates the technical standards and
specifications required for interoperability among systems within the DII. The DII COE
provides an open systems development and operating environment for information systems
within the DII. The Global Command and Control System (GCCS) and Global Combat
Support System (GCSS) are systems within the DII COE. The Defense Information System
Network (DISN) is the global telecommunications infrastructure that provides end-to-end
information transfer and value-added network services. The DISN architecture provides an
integrated network service to meet all DoD requirements for voice, video, and data
communications. The DISN includes the Secure Internet Protocol Router Network
(SIPRNET).
• Global Command and Control System (GCCS). The GCCS is a global C4I system that is
robust, reliable, interoperable, secure, responsive, and survivable. It presents essential
information to the warrior whenever and wherever the warrior directs. It enables the warrior
to synchronize actions. The following general description is from the Joint Staff J6 Joint C4
systems description document. The GCCS:
- Provides a fused, near real-time, true picture of the battle space

- Provides open, modern, client-server systems
- Provides real-time battlefield awareness to commanders
- Uses sensor, intelligence, and plans data as principal input
- Uses an evolutionary acquisition strategy
- Has core functions, to include: crisis planning, force deployment, force status, air
operations, intelligence, message handling capability, METOC and narrative information
- Consists of three elements: core common software, common standards, and CINC
unique software
- Composed of ongoing service C4I modernization programs
- GCCS METOC Applications. With DISA’s fielding of the Joint METOC Segments
(JMS) and Tactical Forecast System (TFS) in GCCS 3.0, the first METOC segments are
available within the DII COE for use by joint METOC personnel. These segments ingest
gridded, observational and imagery data for processing and display in the joint mapping
and visualization segment. The significance of these segments is twofold: first, the
segments provide systems (e.g., GCCS) within the DII COE the capability to display
METOC products in the situational awareness picture. Secondly, the Applications
Programming Interfaces (APIs) used by the segments are available to other segment
developers so that METOC data can be fully integrated in mission support applications
(e.g., satellite vulnerability, joint air defense planning, UAV mission planning). The
APIs are based on WMO communications formats for binary data exchange (GRIB and
BUFR). These formats are included in the Joint Technical Architecture (JTA). GRIB
3-9
formatted gridded fields are available from all of the major production centers. Air
Force Weather Agency products are available as gridded fields on SAFWIN. Navy
products are available from FLENUMMETOCCEN and Navy METOC regional centers.
- GCCS Configuration. Typically, the JTF HQ will have two UNIX servers and any
number of PCs configured as GCCS workstations. The GCCS 3.X software is
implemented within a client/server model, meaning a UNIX server can provide data to a
number of clients (other UNIX workstations and/or PCs). One possible configuration is a
UNIX database server, UNIX applications server, PC web server, and a large number of
PC client desktops. The UNIX applications server can host the Enhanced Linked Virtual
Information System (ELVIS-II), which provides the COP and other GCCS products
(including METOC products) to any client using web-based (JAVA) technology. The PC
web server can host the CJTF's METOC site with updated METOC products.
• Defense Messaging System (DMS). DMS is the primary means through which text
messages are transmitted to the warfighter. DMS replaced AUTODIN in 1999.
• SATCOM Systems. The MILSATCOM programs provide basic long-haul communications

support to the warrior. The four key components are UHF systems, SHF systems, EHF
systems, and commercial satellite communications. UHF systems are not secure and provide
low data rate (LDR) connectivity to deployed forces, while EHF systems are survivable and
jam-resistant. Direct broadcast satellite systems, such as the Global Broadcast System, use
small, low-cost, commercial type terminals to provide high-capacity transfer of information
directly to the warrior. Commercial satellites carry non-sensitive administrative and combat
support information. Wideband (Ku and C band) SATCOM systems can add extra
bandwidth in support of crisis situations without requiring the Government to launch and
operate additional military satellite systems.
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4-JTF Component METOC Support
Chapter 4 - METOC Support to Joint Task Force Components
This chapter summarizes the types of METOC support that may be required to support functional
components of a Joint Task Force: that is, the Joint Force (JF) Air Component Commander
(ACC), Land Component Commander (LCC), Maritime Component Commander (MCC), and
the Joint Special Operations Task Force (JSOTF).
4.1 JTF Component Structure

Figure 4-1 below depicts several variations for forming a Joint Task Force. The CJTF can form
along Service or functional component lines or a combination of both.
CJTF
O perational Control
(OPCON)
JTF HQ
DCJTF
Com m and Relationship JTF STAFF
Determ ined by CJTF
A
ARRM
MY NA VY
NAVY A IR FO RCE
AIR M ARINE CORPS
CO M PONENT
PO NEN T CO M PONENT
PO NEN T COMPONENT
CO M PONENT CO M PONENT
PO NEN T
SERVICE COM PO NENTS
JO INT FO RC
RCEE LA ND JO INT FO RC
RCEE A IR JOINT FORC E M AR ITIM E SPECIAL O PS
CO M PO NEN T COM PONENT
COMPONENT COM PO
PONNEN
ENTT COM PONENT
JOINT CIVIL JOINT PSYC HOLO G ICAL

A FFAIRS TASK FO RCE
AFFAIRS OPN S TASK
TA SK FOR CE JTF
Functional Com ponents
Figure 4-1. Joint Task Force Component Commands
Note: the Joint Special Operations Task Force (JSOTF) and the Joint Force Air Component Commander
(JFACC) are usually established. The Army and Marine Corps components may stand-alone or combine
to form the Joint Force Land Component Commander. The Joint Civil Affairs Task Force (JCATF) and
Joint Psychological Operations Task Force (JPOTF) are frequently formed as part of the JTF HQ. When
two service components are combined, the functional component commander’s staff weather officer or
oceanographer should be the primary METOC contact for that functional command.
4-1
4.2 Joint Task Force Components: METOC Structure and Support

4.2.1 JFACC (Joint Force Air Component Commander)
• Structure. JFACC Staff Weather Officer (may be the JMO if the JFACC is collocated with
the JTF Commander’s staff), forecasters and briefers as required performing assigned tasks
and responsibilities. The JFACC is typically the Commander of a Numbered Air Force
(NAF), and the SWO is the senior weather officer on his staff.
• Relationship
- Tied closely with JFACC plans cell, intel/recce cell, Joint Guidance and Apportionment
Targeting cell (GAT), and the current operations cell
- Typically works for the Director, Joint Air Operations (JOAC) Center (para 4.2.1.1)
• Assets. No special requirements aside from telephones, PCs, etc.

- Advise JFACC commander of operational limitations due to weather
- Met-watch launch, landing, and alternate airfields
- Coordinate with JMO and components as required
- Establish LCC data collection plan (to include FALOP)
- Establish ACC data collection plan
• JFACC METOC Support Requirements

- Primary emphasis is briefing and coordinating
- Monitor execution forecasts (e.g., TAFs and AR route forecasts) and observations
> JOAF should provide the basis for these forecasts
- Met-watch JFACC airfields/ships
> Pass local weather warnings and advisories to staff
- Target and en route forecasts (as required), to include Tomahawk support
- Support the Joint Air Operations Cell (JAOC) and the Air Tasking Order (ATO) cycle
> Prepare/present planning electro-optical/IREPS data
> Provide decision assistance to ATO planning cell
- Request special products (Send to JTF JMO)
- Assist JFACC staff in working METOC support needs/shortfalls
• Manning. JFACC minimum recommended manning (assumes collocation with full support
METOC unit):
- One O-5/O-4 OIC
- Two O-3/5 briefers
- Three E-6/7 forecasters
- One GCCS operator
4.2.1.1 JAOC (Joint Air Operations Cell) METOC Cell. Responsible for supporting the full
range of the JTF’s air operations. Aside from developing routine staff/mission weather
packages, one of the JFACC METOC cell’s key roles is to provide critical METOC input to the
4-2
joint targeting and air tasking cycle (see Figure 4-2). The JFACC and JAOC may be collocated,
or more likely, there will be a JFACC-Forward (including the JFACC Commander) and a JAOC-
Rear (to minimize the footprint forward).
JFA C C
DEPUTY
JFA C C
LNO CELL JA O C
D IR E C T O R
R E P R E S E N T A T IV E
CELL
A D M IN PLANS O P E R A T IO N S BCE
COMM ATO A IR S P A C E
P R O D U C T IO N
IN T E L
GAT CELL
A IR D E F E N S E
Figure 4-2. JFACC Organization
• Targeting and tasking for joint air operations:
- The ATO cycle (refer to Figure 4-3) begins approximately three days before expected
mission date with air planners reviewing JTF objectives and targeting requirements to
develop a preliminary target list
- After input from weaponeers and other sources, a shell of the main mission-planning
document, the air tasking order (ATO) is generated. The ATO is then passed to flight
and support planners to add in specific unit and resource data. The final ATO is
published approximately one day before expected mission execution. After any last-
minute revisions are made, the ATO is executed, combat assessment is performed, and
the cycle begins again.
JFC MISSION
OBJECTIVE/GUIDANCE TARGET
BDA REQ’S
TARGET
COMBAT
DEVELOPMENT
ASSESSMENT
STRIKE JTCB JIPTL
FORCE
WEAPONEERING /
EXECUTION
ALLOCATION
SORTIEALOT
ATO CONF ALLOREQ
SPINS AIRSUPREQ
ATO / SPINS MAAP
DEVELOPMENT
ATO SHELL
Figure 4-3. Air Tasking Order (ATO) Planning Cycle
4-3
• Aerospace roles and missions. Early in the ATO cycle, planners consider which aerospace
roles and missions are required to meet a given tasking. In most instances, an ATO will
incorporate a majority of the roles/missions listed here:
- Aerospace Control (Counter-Air and Counter Space)
- Force Application (Strategic Attack, Interdiction and Close Air Support)
- Force Enhancement (Airlift, Air Refueling, Spacelift, Electronic Combat,
Surveillance/Reconnaissance, Special Operations)
- Force Support (Base Operations and Base Defense, Logistics, Combat Support, and On-
Orbit Support)
• METOC Support Requirements for the joint targeting and tasking cycle
- Close coordination between the ATO planners and the METOC cell is extremely
important. Planners routinely ask for METOC input throughout the ATO cycle because it
directly influences the number and type of aircraft and type of weapons that may be used.
Thus, METOC staff normally need to prepare forecast products for each ATO package
covering conditions expected at 72, 48, 24, 12 hrs before mission execution. Some
forecasts out to 120 hours may be required
> Since the ATO cycle is ~96 hrs in duration (from initial planning to ATO execution),
there is more than one ATO being developed at any given time. It is important that
METOC support units keep close track of both the briefed weather and developing
weather conditions for each active ATO package
- Most ATO forecast products are comprised of routine aviation weather data: plain
language forecast, winds aloft, hazards, cloud decks, etc. Specific missions may also
require special METOC products, such as EOTDA or IREPS output. METOC
sensitivities for USAF operations are outlined in Appendix C.
Note: This is not an all-inclusive list and does not include any classified criteria.
- To maximize effectiveness, Navy personnel on the JFACC METOC staff should have
aircraft carrier experience
4.2.2 JFLCC (Joint Force Land Component Commander)
• Structure. JFLCC SWO and supporting forecasters/briefers as required performing assigned

tasks and responsibilities. ARFOR- and MARFOR-assigned roles will require representation
for their specific needs.
• Relationship
- Army Land Component Commander (LCC): SWO works for G-2, close coordination
with G-3
- Marine LCC: SWO works for G-2, close coordination with G-3
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• Assets. Generally organic to LCC commander’s unit, augmented as needed (EAC, Corps,
Division, or Brigade SWOs and their weather teams)

- Detailed METOC support to the JFLCC/ARFOR/MARFOR combatant command staff
- IPB and Intelligence Collection missions
- Climatology studies for operations time-frame
- Establish LCC data collection plan
- Coordinate with the JMO and components as needed
- Weather inputs to Effective Downwind Messages (EDM)/Chemical Downwind Message
(CDM)
- Met-watch all areas of interest, including APODs, SPODs, and areas requiring Fire
Support Coordination Measures
• JFLCC METOC Support Requirements. JFLCC operations will vary based on the JTF
mission, forces, and duration of the military operation. JFLCC support will center around
meeting the planning and mission execution requirements of the JFLCC staff, ARFOR,
MARFOR, and when required, SOF. Support may also be required to the Joint Tactical
Operations Center (JTOC). Weather impacts provided to Army commanders are typically in
"stoplight" format: green--favorable / minimal operational restrictions; amber--marginal /
moderate operational restrictions; red--unfavorable / severe weather impacts to operations.
- Long-range forecasts for the JOA and the adjoining Threat Force occupied areas (30, 15,
and 7 days) based on climatology and long range trends
- Execution forecasts for the JOA (3-5 days, 48-hour, 24-hour)
- Forecasts as needed for Air and Sea Point of Departures (APODs/SPODs), supply routes,
and staging areas
- Briefings
- METOC requirements for Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield (IPB):
Level Forecast Time Interest
EAC Beyond 96 hours
Corps Up to 96 hours
Division Up to 72 hours
Brigade Up to 24 hours
Battalion Up to 12 hours
- Typical ground force operations and operational thresholds. Specific mission
requirements and weapon systems will most likely require modification of these values.
Not all criteria impacting operations are listed; a more complete list is given in
Appendix C and in Army Field Manuals 34-81 and 34-81-1.
Airborne Cig/Vis: 1250-2500’/4000-4800m, Wind 10-13 kts

Air Assault Cig/Vis 500-1000’/800-4800m
Attack Helo Cig/Vis 150-300’/1600-4000m
Armor/Trafficability Wet/Snow Covered Ground, Cold Temperatures
Artillery Cig/Vis /1000-2000’/1600-3200m
Infantry/Personnel Mod Rain/Snow, HI 90-105, ECT 15-25
4-5
Air Defense Cig/Vis 500-1000’/3200-4800 m

CAS (A-10) Cig/Vis 1000-1500/4000-4800m
Recce (High Alt) Cloud Cover 2-4 eighths, Vis 4000-4800m
Recce (Low Alt) Cig/Vis 1000-2500’/4000-8000m
UAV Depends on platform: Low Cig/Vis, Icing, Wind
Chemical/Smoke Light Neutral Stability, Wind 4-10 kts
4.2.3 JFMCC (Joint Force Maritime Component Commander)
• Structure. Numbered Fleet or Battlegroup Oceanographer. The JFMCC METOC cell is

typically embarked in the NAVFOR's flagship, though it may be ashore, if the JFMCC is
ashore.
• Relationship. In a large JTF, a SOF METOC liaison officer or senior NCO may be assigned,
reporting to Maritime Component Commander (MCC) N-3
• Assets
- Carrier (CV) and large-deck amphibious (LHD/LHA/LPH) OA divisions or command
ship OA division
- Mobile Environmental Teams
- Marine Theater Support from NAVMETOCCEN (Norfolk, Pearl Harbor, Rota)

- OPTASK METOC (optional DMS message)
> Combination of Annex H (METOC Operations) and a Letter of Instruction, detailing
METOC relationships within the Battle Group and reoccurring procedures and
requirements while the Battle Group is operating
> Usually updated by the Battle Group before deployment
- Coordinate with the JMO and components as needed
• JFMCC METOC Cell Support Requirements. The Cell will direct support to subordinate
warfare commanders. Typically forecasts will be generated at the lowest level possible
within the battle group. All or some forecasts may be generated onboard the METOC
capable unit.
- Briefings
- Maritime data collection
- Specific forecasts as required for various naval force missions:
> Undersea Warfare
> Surface Warfare
> Air Warfare
> Amphibious Warfare
> Mine Warfare
> Special Warfare
> Command & Control Warfare
> Information Warfare
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> TLAM go/no-go, strike warfare and target weather
- The NAVFOR Commander sets critical METOC thresholds for maritime missions.
Reference Pub 1 (RP-1), “Environmental Effects on Naval Weapons Systems and Naval
Warfare,” contains suggestions of limits for maritime operations; a few possible
thresholds are listed in Appendix C. Other threshold considerations can be determined
from a variety of Naval Warfare Publications (NWP), particularly those governing
classes of ships and their weapon systems. Items to be considered:
> Surf conditions (denoted with the Modified Surf Index, MSI)
> Sea State (SS) impacts on flight ops, mobility, replenishment at sea, airborne & ship
borne MCM, and Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) Ops
> Ceiling and visibility impacts on shore and shipboard flight operations and target and
strike weather (for aircraft and Tomahawk missions)
> Radar performance (refractivity profile)
> Sonar performance (sound speed profile)
> Electro-optical systems performance
> Sensible weather (temperature, visibility, precipitation, altimeter setting, etc.)
4.2.4 JSOTF/JFSOCC (Joint Special Operations Task Force/Joint Force Special

Operations Component Commander)
• Structure
- Term JSOTF is generic and does not apply to any specific organization, unit or level of
command
- May be small and temporary or large and permanent depending on mission
- May be deployed as a joint organization or formed around an existing service force
structure with an augmented staff
- May consist of elements of the theater Special Operations Command (SOC) or may
deploy as a complete package from outside of theater at direction of NCA
- JSOTF normally subordinate to Theater SOC, but other command arrangements are
possible
• Relationship. A METOC liaison officer or senior NCO should be assigned to the HQ JTF to
keep the JMO aware of impending SOF missions, requirements, and ensure effective
coordination with the JSOTF METOC cell (see Figure 4-4).
4-7
JSOTF
NSWTG AFSOC/
SFOB
JSOAC
FOB FOB FOB NSWTU NSWTU NSWTU AFSOD AFSOD AFSOD
Figure 4-4. JSOTF Command Arrangement
• Assets.
- Special Operations Weather Teams (SOWT) deployed at forward operating bases and
other SOF command elements
- USN Mobile Environmental Teams assigned to SEAL team support.
• Roles and Responsibilities. SOF-unique support

- Mission-specific requirements
- Products tailored from large to small operating team missions
• JSOTF METOC Cell Support Requirements. Support varies depending on scope and extent
of the assigned mission(s); the JSOTF must have highly flexible support providers.
- Basic METOC support package includes 2 officers, 4 enlisted forecasters

- Basic forecast and observing data provided by JTF JMO, then is tailored and distributed
to SOF component teams
> JSOTF SMO works closely with JMO to meet SOF mission requirements
> JSOTF SMO and tactical SOF METOC teams may be supported directly by the
SOFWOC, the Navy's Warfighting Support Center (WSC), and AFCCC as required.
Support will be coordinated and deconflicted with the JTF JMO, designated JMFU,
and applicable Major Forecast Center (OPSEC permitting)
- JSOTF METOC team composed of personnel with proper mix of Army, Navy, and Air
Force SOF support experience to effectively exploit the environment for the assigned
mission
- Possible METOC support requirements for JSOTF headquarters:
> Limited weather observations
> Briefing support to headquarters
> Forecasting support - planning forecasts, point and target forecasts, route forecasts,
mission control forecasts, EO forecasts, surf and oceanographic forecasts, solar and
lunar data
- METOC support to an Air Force Special Operations Base. Same as tactical AFFOR
support. Up to 7 man team provides:
4-8

> Briefing support
> Forecast support (TAFs, mission planning forecasts, route forecasts, EO forecasts,
flight weather briefings)
- METOC support to an Army Special Operations Base. Up to 7 man team provides:
> Briefing support
> Forecasting support (point and target forecasts, some EO forecasts, Army flight
operations support)
- Other Special Operations Forces METOC support: selected SOF weather teams may
deploy to take and disseminate weather observations as determined necessary by the
JSOTF CC and JSOTF JMO
4-9
5 - The Senior METOC Officer
Chapter 5 - The Senior METOC Officer
This chapter describes, in general, the job requirements for a Senior METOC Officer (SMO) at a
Unified Command. Paragraph 5.2.3 describes actions the SMO should consider during Crisis
Action Planning (CAP) and operation execution, including actions to support a Joint Task Force
(JTF) operating in the Area of Responsibility (AOR).
5.1 Job Background

5.1.1 Billet requirements.
Need Top Secret (TS) clearance. Additionally, some Unified Commands require Specialized
Compartmentalized Information (SCI) clearance as well. Intermediate/Senior Service School
(ISS/SSS) is highly desired and required for some joint billets. Service school is Phase I of Joint
Professional Military Education (JPME); Armed Forces Staff College (AFSC) is Phase II of
JPME. Military officers (04 and above) need JPME Phase I (Service school by correspondence
is accepted) and JPME Phase II, and the required tour length (36 months, day for day, unless
SECDEF waiver) to obtain Joint Specialty Officer (JSO) designation. Joint officers typically
attend JPME Phase II (three months in Norfolk VA) before beginning joint duties, or sometime
during the first 12-18 months they're assigned to their Unified Command (mission requirements
permitting).
5.1.2 Structure.
The METOC Branch at each Unified Command has a small number of personnel (actual number
assigned varies) to provide all METOC support to the CINC and the staff. At some Unified
Commands there is no METOC officer directly assigned; support may be provided by liaison
officer(s) from another METOC agency, or alternatively, support may be provided by a METOC
officer at a designated component. This support ranges from providing daily METOC update
briefings and climatology, to developing annexes to OPLANs and OPORDs, to designing and
implementing the entire METOC support force for a theater contingency or large-scale (multi-
service or multi-national) exercise.
5.1.3 Relationship.
The CINC designates a SMO, who normally works through the Operations Director (J3), to
coordinate all METOC operations within the AOR. SMOs should liaison with the CINC’s
component commands’ staff weather and oceanography officers to facilitate this coordination.
5.1.4 Assets.
Each combatant command has components which provide forces to joint operations; most
components will have a staff weather officer or oceanographer who becomes the Joint Task
Force Joint METOC Officer (JMO) or component METOC officer (see Chapter 3 and applicable
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Service chapters). Forces needed, which are not available in-theater, can be requested through
the Joint Staff from another combatant command. U.S. Joint Forces Command has
approximately 80 percent of the Armed Forces and is usually a supporting CINC. The SMO has
global and in-theater METOC resources (see Chapter 1).
5.2 Job Requirements

5.2.1 SMO Routine Duties and Responsibilities
• "Job Description"
- As CINC’s executive agent for meteorology and oceanography develops and overseas
execution of a METOC concept of operations that integrates with and compliments the
CINC’s concept of operations.
- Provide or arrange for all METOC support to the CINC and his staff (includes daily
briefings, environmental impacts to operations, climatological support, specialized
forecasts, METOC-based research, and METOC expertise in Command projects and
programs)
- Assist the JMO and service components in the development and operation of JTF
METOC operations in your CINC's AOR (see paragraph 5.3). Coordinate and validate
personnel, equipment, data, and product requirements for exercises and operations.
- Coordinate and assign METOC tasks to Service component METOC assets to fulfill
operational needs within the AOR.
- Through the deliberate planning and execution cycles, ensure Annex H is developed for
each CINC OPORD, OPLAN, and CONPLAN as appropriate.
- Liaison with the Joint Staff, other CINCs, and the Services on joint support issues,
including doctrine, tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP), communications, and
ongoing operations.
- Augment the CINC’s Joint Operations Center (JOC) as required.
- Provide/arrange theater SOC/JSOTF METOC augmentation and support.
- Assess potential METOC impacts to and / or support the Command's Advanced Concept
Technology Demonstrations (ACTDs).
- CINC's Integrated Priority List (IPL). Coordinate with the appropriate staff action officer
to learn the process. The CINC IPL is a valuable tool for METOC officers to annually
list their unfilled METOC requirements or to ask for resources to satisfy the operational
mission. Component METOC officers should coordinate their inputs, through their
5-2
component staff, to the SMO. The SMO can facilitate this recommendation at the
Unified Command level by promoting entry onto the Unified Command IPL.
- Additional duties can be found in CJCSI 3810.1() and Joint Pub 3-59.
• Helpful hints
- Upon reporting, review current Joint Strategic Capabilities Plan List (JSCP) for OPLANs
and CONPLANs required for your CINC. Maintain file/knowledge of all current Annex
Hotel for OPLANs, CONPLANs, Functional Plans, OPORDs, and any applicable
standard operating procedures (SOPs).
- Review/understand the Deliberate Planning and Crisis Action Planning processes as the
planning processes apply to your CINC. Use Joint Staff Officer's Guide, Joint Pub 5-0,
and your CINC's instructions. Know your responsibilities to the CINC when a crisis
response cell (CRC) or Crisis Action Team (CAT) is stood up.
- Know your manning: reserves and augmentation personnel. Obtain/review copy of your
Joint Table of Distribution (JTD) and Joint Table of Mobilization Distribution (JTMD).
- Know your available communications and systems; e.g., GCCS, SIPRNET, NIPRNET,
GBS, AFWIN, AWDS, and SAFWIN. Liaison with your J6 and component command
METOC Officers to understand available communication paths, compatibility of
component communications, and viable methods to interface component METOC forces
in joint operations. Learn the various communication pathways to obtain METOC data
via homepage or bulletin boards within your division and at the command center. Learn
to display METOC products in GCCS.
- Have a basic understanding of the effects on military operations of space weather and the
space weather support infrastructure.
- Review/learn the climatology of your area of responsibility (AOR). Develop and

maintain climatology for your OPLANs and CONPLANs. Maintain climatology
reference publications for AOR. Use AFCCC, FNMOD Asheville, Commander, Naval
METOC Command (CNMOC), and NAVOCEANO as necessary.
- Review/learn METOC software applications available from all Services. Obtain the
necessary hardware to support the various software applications. Some of the software
you may need at the CINC level are Joint METOC Viewer (JMV), CD-ROM library
from Asheville and NAVOCEANO, a solar/lunar program (e.g., NiteLight), Joint
METOC Segment, NTFS, and a tropical storm tracking program,. AFCCC has a
publication catalog and CNMOC publishes a list of available software.
- Review/learn other software that you may be required to use and support. Software often
used at a CINC level is HPAC, CATS, ARCVIEW, FALCONVIEW and other WMD and
GIS based software.
5-3
- Review the universal list of METOC equipment. Refer to the Office of the Federal
Coordinator for Meteorology (OFCM) weather equipment manual. Know what is
available for an operation and what Service needs to be tasked to provide.
- Have a broad knowledge of Time Phased Force and Deployment Data (TPFDD)/List
(TPFDL) and some of the key personnel/equipment Unit Type Codes (UTCs) by service.
See Appendix A for further discussion of Service TPFDD information. Liaison with your
J3/J4/J5 to learn how your CINC validates/ manages TPFDD and TPFDL. Liaison with
USTRANSCOM to get the schedule of upcoming scheduling conferences and attend one
if possible.
- Review Joint Universal Lessons Learned (JULLS) and After Action Reports (AARs). (A
good starting place is the Joint Center for Lessons Learned (JCLL)). Know your CINC's
internal process for submitting and reviewing JULLS and AARs. Submit and review
JULLS after each operation/exercise if appropriate. Contact Joint Staff for any JULLS
that have been tasked out. Distribute METOC AARs to components for distribution to
tactical units.
- Know foreign METOC Services/organizations, including NATO, that have roles in your
AOR.
- Long Term Projects. On a very broad scope, learn about the METOC-related issues at
the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD), Joint Staff Service, Headquarters, and The
Office of the Federal Coordinator for Meteorology.
> OSD: Joint METOC data standardization, GCCS, support during Weapons of Mass
Destruction (WMD) incidents.
> Joint Staff: joint METOC communications architecture, METOC Roadmap to Joint
Vision 2010 (and JV 2020), GCCS METOC issues
> DISA: GCCS, GBS.
> Navy/Air Force Joint Requirements board: XOW/NO96 initiative to coordinate
AF/Navy issues.
> N096/SPAWARS: NITES, Joint METOC Segment to GCCS, Joint METOC Viewer,
NPOESS and METMF®, METOC UAV.
> ARL: C/NOFS and other AF ACTDS.
> 88th WS: BENVINT, other AF METOC initiatives.
> AF XOW/AFWA: SIPRNET connectivity, New Tactical Forecast System (N-TFS),
CAFWSP.
> USSOCOM: SOF METOC, Remote Miniature Weather Station (RMWS) and
CINCSOC METOC billets.
> USEUCOM: WMD support, SOCEUR SWO function.
5-4
5.2.2 Publication List
• Must-read list:
- Joint Strategic Capabilities Plan (JSCP)

- CJCSI 3810.01A, "Joint Meteorology and Oceanography Operations"
- Joint Pub 3-59
- The Joint Staff Officer's Guide 2000 (Purple Book)
- CJCSM 3500.05 Joint Task Force HQ Master Training Plan (MTP)
- CJCSM 3500.04B Universal Joint Task List (UJTL)
- Office of the Federal Coordinator for Meteorology (OFCM) Federal Directory of Mobile
Meteorological Equipment and Capabilities
- JOPES (CJCS Instructions, Joint Staff J5)
- Army FM 34-81-1 Battlefield Weather Effects
- Staff instructions
• Recommended list:
- NATO Pubs: Allied Weather Publication (AWP) 1 (Maritime MET Procedures and
Services), AWP 2, and various Partnership for Peace weather effects manuals
(Multinational Weather Manual, MWM), as appropriate
- Unified Command Plan (UCP)
- Joint Pub 0-2, “Unified Actions Armed Forces”
- Joint Pub 1-02, “DOD Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms”
- Joint Pub 2-0, “Joint Doctrine for Intelligence Support to Operations”
- Joint Pub 2-01.3 “Tactics techniques and Procedures for Joint Intelligence”1
- Joint Pub 3-0, “Doctrine for Joint Operations”
- Joint Pub 5.0, “Doctrine for Planning Joint Operations”
- Joint Pub 5-00.2 “JTF Planning Guidance and Procedures” 2and other joint pubs as
necessary
5.2.3 Operations and Exercises.
The supported CINC and supporting CINC Senior METOC Officers (SMOs) must be closely
involved in a successful operation or exercise.
5.2.3.1 SMO Checklist. During exercise and/or Crisis Action Planning, the SMO may need to
accomplish some or all of the actions delineated below. Once the Joint Task Force forces and
structure are announced and a JMO assigned, the JMO should consider the JMO actions in
Chapter 6, and the SMO assumes a monitoring and assistance role. Tasks that may need to be
completed:
• Initial actions:
- Answer climatology input requests (may be first clue to pending operation)
1
This contains doctrine concerning METOC thresholds.
2
This pub covers the guidance concerning who stands up METOC cells and organization.
5-5
- Determine force structure (CJTF, JFACC, NAVFOR, MARFOR, AFFOR, ARFOR,

JSOTF)
> Additional METOC resources may be requested in two ways:
◊ Request support from the supported CINC's components, who provide the
requested support from their resources or ask for assistance from their Service.
◊ Request support from a supporting CINC (often US Joint Forces Command). The
supported CINC's J-1 can facilitate the request process: if the event is a JCS pre-
approved Significant Military Exercise Brief (SMEB), the request can go directly
to the supporting CINC. If the event is a contingency or non-SMEB, the request
must be coordinated with the Joint Staff.
- Coordinate climatology/real time METOC data requirements with regional and strategic-
level METOC Forecast Centers (MFCs). Consider data availability, accuracy, and
limitations; if JTF Commander has determined need for a JMFU, consider designation of
appropriate forces.
- Coordinate/tailor METOC support product requirements for the CINC.
- Assign/coordinate METOC tasks as appropriate to component SWO(s) to ensure unity of
effort.
- Provide input to CINC staff estimates, including Commanders Estimate of the Situation
(CES), Intelligence, Operations, Logistics, and C4, as well as Course of Action (COA)
development and analysis.
- Begin building CINC OPORD Annex H, and inputs to Annex B (Intelligence), Annex C
(Ops), Annex K (Communications), Annex M (Geospatial Information and Services
(GI&S)), and Annex N (Space).
- Manage special METOC needs at the national / theater level: national assets, MM5 model
runs from AFWA, space environment support from AFWA, NOGAPS/COAMPS from
FNMOC, and National Weather Service or foreign weather service support applied to the
operation/exercise.
• After JTF formation:

- When identified, liaison is required with the JTF JMO. Parallel or collaborative planning
may be required. Once completed, provide your CINC OPORD Annex H and input to
other annexes to the JMO. Coordinate and assist the JMO in the following areas as
required: organization, personnel augmentation, identification and location of component
SWOs, theater and joint area of operations communications, equipment, logistics, data
requirements, products and timelines.
- Coordinate climatology/real time METOC data requirements with regional and strategic-
level METOC Forecast Centers (MFCs), the JMO, and component SWOs
- Coordinate with JMO on Allied METOC support.
- Develop, in conjunction with the JMO, the METOC CONOPS and, if amplification of
Annex H is needed, a Letter of Instruction (LOI) specific to the operation, describing
general guidance such as JMFU designation, communication plans, equipment
requirements, and theater observation collection plan. The CONOPS should be included
in the JTF's Annex H.
- Monitor deployment status of Service component METOC assets, and subsequently,
METOC operations in the Joint Operations Area (JOA).
- Maintain awareness of operations under other staff proponency.
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6-The Joint METOC Officer
Chapter 6 - The Joint Force METOC Officer
6.1 Structure.
The Joint Force METOC Officer (JMO) is the senior METOC officer assigned to the Joint Force
Commander’s (JFC) staff. The CINC Senior METOC Officer (SMO) could also be the JMO, if
the CINC is also the Joint force Commander.
6.1.1 Relationship.
The JMO is a member of the JTF J3 (USAF, USN organizational lines) or the J2 organizations
(USA,USMC organizational lines). During the execution phase, the JMO should be collocated
with the Joint Operations Center (JOC). In either case, the Joint Force Commander designates
who is the JMOC.
6.1.1.2 SMO/JMO relationship. The relationship between SMO and JMO is one of close
coordination--it is not a senior-subordinate relationship. Each is a member of their respective
staff (whether pre-existing or ad-hoc) and, as such, reports within that organization. The SMO is
the expert on how the CINC prefers METOC support within the AOR and should ensure that
these preferences are communicated to the Joint Force Commander (JFC) and his staff. If a JFC
has not been named, the SMO should perform JMO checklist tasks. When the JFC is named, his
Staff METOC Officer will normally assume JMO responsibilities. (If there is no staff METOC
Officer assigned, the SMO needs to discuss with the JTF Staff (usually the J3) whether or not
there is a need for a JMO and should one be assigned to the JTF Staff.) At this time the SMO
and JMO checklists must be exchanged with a shift of responsibilities to the JFC’s METOC
Officer. A close relationship should continue as staff planning at both the CINC and JFC levels
continues until the OPORD/OPLAN is complete. The SMO, with established resources and
organizational ties, provides a significant wealth of knowledge, experience and support, which
the JMO should draw upon as the plan shifts into execution.
6.1.2 Assets.
The JMO coordinates with the SMO for augmenting personnel and equipment and for METOC
Forecast Center (MFC) support to the operation. However, the actual requests should come via
the normal Request For Forces (RFF) channels that the staff uses.
6.2 Roles and Responsibilities.

The JMO acts for the JFC to direct and coordinate METOC activities under the JFC's operational
control.
6-1
6.2.1 JMO considerations and actions in planning and executing support to a JTF:
6.2.1.1 Support JTF Crisis Action Planning (CAP) for a joint operation. A crisis situation is
developing. The JMO starts with Phase I or II and progresses through five phases of Crisis
Action Planning (see Chapter 2).
• Contribute to the Joint Task Force's overall mission analysis

- Provide past, present, and future states of the space, air, and ocean environments to the
JTF. Consider:
> Past states: climatology of the region. Consider topography and general weather,
climatic controls, special meteorological phenomena, tropical weather, and statistical
climatology; solar, lunar, and light level data; tidal data; bathymetry; currents and
oceanography; ionospheric / geomagnetic impacts.
> Present state: observations. Data sources land and ship reports, upper air soundings,
satellite earth sensors, weather radars, lightning detection systems, profilers, solar
telescopes, ionosphere sensors, buoys, and aircraft.
> Future state--forecasts. Global, regional, and tactical level forecasts can come from
METOC Forecast Centers (MFCs), regional METOC centers, tactical level units, and
indigenous sources.
- Provide input to J-2's Intelligence Estimate and Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield
(IPB), as well as Joint Planning Group (JPG), J-3 Operations, J-4 Logistics, and J-6
(Communications) estimates, as appropriate.
- Provide impact of METOC conditions on the Courses of Actions (COA).
- Provide input to Commander’s Estimate of the Situation (CES).
- Develop Annex H (see Appendix B) and provide METOC input and/or requirements for
Annex B (Intelligence), Annex C (Operations), Annex D (Logistics), Annex J (Command
and Control), Annex K (Communications), Annex N (Space), and the Basic Plan
(paragraph 4.f), as required.
STAFF CJTF
Mission Mission
Analysis Analysis
End Planning
State Guidance
COA COA
Development Development Warning
Staff Orders
Estimates COA COA
Analysis Analysis
COA
COA
Comparison
Comparison
COA
CJTF’s Selection
Estimate
to CINC OPORD
Development
Figure 6-1. JTF Operation Planning Process
6-2
6.2.1.2 Plan and integrate METOC operations into the joint operation. JTF mission analysis and
staff and commander’s estimates are complete. The establishing authority has directed Phase V
(Execution Planning of CAP). The NCA selects the COA and the CJCS has conveyed the
decision to the CINC. The CJTF has directed the JTF staff, components, and commands to
conduct detailed planning to convert the COA into an OPLAN and supporting plan. The CJTF’s
intent and concept of the operation identifies requirements for planning METOC operations,
preparatory to completion of the plan.
• Review CINC’s apportionment of METOC assets and resources.

• Identify force, equipment, communications, and data requirements for METOC support,
including augmentation for the JTF headquarters (JTF HQ).
- Provide input to the Time-Phased Force Deployment Data (TPFDD).
- Monitor deployment of METOC resources (personnel, equipment, communications).
- Identify METOC shortfalls through the JFC to the CINC.
> Manning.
> Communications.
> Information requirements.
> Service requirements beyond the capabilities of assigned METOC assets.
• Develop operational support plans and procedures that support the concept of operations
documented in Annex H.
- As required, establish and tailor joint force METOC forecast activities to CONOPS and
composition of assigned forces.
- Consider use of MFCs, component and tactical level assets and capabilities, and
capabilities at rear operating areas.
- Consider formation and composition of a Joint METOC Forecast Unit (JMFU).
- Establish product requirements (content and scheduling) and coordinate support services
for JTF HQ (Chapter 3) and JTF components (Chapter 4).
• Direct/coordinate initial activities of METOC assets in Joint Operations Area (JOA) (see
paragraph 6.2.1.3 below).
- Begin critical METOC functions to support JTF operations: data sensing and collection,
analysis, forecasting, tailored application of products to enhance JTF decision-making
processes, dissemination, and evaluation (see Joint Publication 3-59 Chapter 4).
• Sustain METOC operations in the JOA.
- Ensure compatibility, consistency, and timeliness of information exchange among
METOC assets and resources.
- Identify transportation and logistic requirements for METOC support.
6.2.1.3 Control and execute METOC operations. The Secretary of Defense and supported CINC
have issued execution orders for JTF operations which will include METOC operations.
Sufficient elements of the joint force have deployed to begin operations, or the whole joint force
has deployed. Operations have begun per CJTF’s concept and are continuing.
• Monitor METOC operations in support of the JTF.

- Collect information from all sources. Keyed to:
> Previously determined information plan - requirements, sources, and timing.
> CJTF’s critical information requirements (CCIRs).
6-3
> Maintain awareness of operations under other staff proponency.

- Monitor deployment and employment status of Service component METOC assets
> Recommend changes to the Time-Phased Force and Deployment List (TPFDL) for
METOC assets, as required.
- METOC Forecast Centers.
- Past, present, and future states of space, air, and ocean environments, utilizing all-source
observations and forecasts (land, upper air, ship, buoy, ionospheric, lightning, aircraft,
unmanned aerial and underwater vehicles, satellite).
6.2.1.4 Assess effectiveness of METOC operations

• Assess information architecture:
- METOC information systems; access to operational information and force status.
- Assess information exchange processes and reporting requirements.
• Evaluate organization of METOC operations.
- Simple, clear, responsive command lines, IAW CJTF intent.
- Unity of effort - JMO guidance.
- Apportionment of METOC assets.
• Assess support missions assigned to METOC assets.
- Missions appropriate for tasked components/units.
- Missions integrated with operational missions (e.g., appropriate support provided
throughout the ATO cycle).
- Missions supported by sufficient JTF resources.
• Deconflict METOC operations with 'conventional' missions. Consider:
- METOC reporting requirements.
- Command, Control, Communications, and Computers (C4) interoperability.
- Frequency allocation.
- Reconnaissance/intelligence collection efforts.
- Surface and airspace deconfliction.
- Coordination of logistic support.
6.2.1.5 Prepare plans and orders related to METOC operations (ongoing)

• Maintain current estimate of METOC operations (paragraphs 6.2.1.3 and 6.2.1.4).
• Assess progress of current METOC operations and their effect on JTF operations.
- Relate information to attainment of desired conditions.
> Current operations.
> Future operations.
> Campaign endstate and/or termination conditions.
- Relate to decision points for current or future operations.
• Develop/refine friendly COA(s) with regard to METOC operations.
- Consider continuing METOC operations IAW current apportionment, guidance, and
prioritization.
- Develop branches and sequels to METOC operations (i.e., changes based on the evolving
situation or additional requirements).
• Develop enemy COA(s) that impact or affect METOC operations, or current and future
environmental or civil conditions.
- Evaluate current, apparent operations/conditions.
6-4
- Develop branches to current, apparent operations/conditions.

• Analyze friendly COAs.
- Analyze wargames against enemy COAs or current and future environmental or civil
conditions.
- Analyze all feasible alternatives, using best information available.
• Compare friendly COAs.
- Determine the COA that best achieves objectives against most probable and/or most
dangerous enemy COA, or against most likely or most dangerous/complex environmental
or civil conditions.
- Determine feasible alternatives, using best information available, as well as advantages
and disadvantages of each.
• Prepare discussion and/or recommendations to current estimates.
• Coordinate and update changes to Annexes B, C, D, H, K, and N, as appropriate.
6.2.1.6 Direct and lead subordinate operational METOC operations

• Approve plan and order related to METOC operations.
• Organize and direct the JMFU (if one is designated), and Service component assets.
• Synchronize actions IAW established timelines and conditions.
• Coordinate actions and/or operations, where lines of authority and responsibility overlap
and/or conflict.
- Advise components/units of adjacent or related actions/operations.
- Direct supporting operations, as required.
- Resolve conflicts.
• Adjust control measures, as required, or relay component adjustments to adjacent, supported,
or supporting units.
• Decide on operational actions/direction.
• Change, recommend change, or continue METOC operations and priorities.
- Seek CJTF/supervisors guidance if a change appears necessary.
- Ensure change remains supportive of current mission and intent, based on continuing
estimate of the situation.
- Coordinate and conduct appropriate planning for change.
- Write plan and/or order for change.
• Approve and issue plan and/or order.
6.2.1.7 Acquire and communicate operational information about METOC operations

• Display and brief information as required.
• Inform supervisors, decision makers, other JTF staff, and staff counterparts, based on:
- CCIRs (Commander’s Critical Information Requirements.
- Planned hierarchy of significant information.
- Information that could affect a commander’s decision.
- Understanding of information requirements of commanders and other staff.
• Report - formal (required / periodic) and informal (hasty / as required).
• Develop general military information--briefings, reports, analyses, etc.
• Monitor COMSEC, COMPUSEC, SIGSEC related to METOC operations.
• Conduct public affairs operations related to METOC operations.
6-5
6.3 Advice to the JMO. Keyword: coordinate!
• Call the SMO for review of developments and the commander’s intent. Get turnover of any
climatology or METOC staff planning to date. Discuss possible JTF component (Service or
Functional Component) structure. Continue to coordinate with the SMO throughout the
operation.
• Call the JTF Service and functional component METOC officers. Discuss initial METOC
CONOPS and establish lines of communication. Solicit input for their concept of operations.
Continue to coordinate throughout the operation. Update the components as often as
necessary, depending on the situation. Identify any of their unit shortfalls and required
products and services as early on as possible.
• Get involved in the JTF planning process, described in Chapter 2. The SMO may have
already gathered and provided much of the information required during this planning
process. The formats for Intelligence Estimate, Commander’s Estimate, and OPORD
annexes (contained in Appendix B) are the same for the CINC planning process as for the
JTF staff.
• Review the CINC’s OPLAN/OPORD, with particular attention to Annex H (METOC

Operations), Annex B (Intelligence), Annex C (Operations), Annex K (Command, Control
and Communications Systems), Annex M (Geospatial Information and Services) and Annex
N (Space).
• Determine what products are required from centralized or theater METOC Forecast Centers
(MFCs). Coordinate with SMO if necessary to discuss theater strategy and use of global and
in-theater METOC resources.
• Develop or modify the JTF OPORD (same annexes as listed above) as time and situation
allow. Develop a JTF METOC concept of operations and issue a METOC Letter of
Instruction (LOI), if necessary.
• Develop a JTF METOC information management plan:

- Understand JTF and subordinate as well as CINC’s Battle Rhythm.
- Determine required customer/component/JTF staff information.
- Briefings to JTF commander and staff, JFACC, JTCB, J3/5.
- Collect weather impact sensitivities from components.
- Clarify roles in strategic, operational, and tactical level forecasting.
> Ensure components focus on tactical level forecasting (e.g., bombs on target, DZ/LZ
forecasts, AR forecasts) and provide significant impacts to the JFC and/or JMO as
required. Determine who issues advisories and weather warnings (e.g., locally-issued
advisories for airfields versus area weather warnings).
> Detail/refine JTF HQ METOC-produced bulletins/forecasts (e.g., the JOAF), to
include information for components without organic weather support. Consider use
of existing bulletins for designation as the JOAF.
6-6
> Determine METOC information required to satisfy requirements for, or data required
from:
◊ Observations and soundings.
◊ TAFs, trafficability and other forecasts.
◊ Ocean, space, and atmospheric model output.
◊ Radar and METSAT imagery.
◊ Climatology, oceanographic, and hydrologic data.
◊ Non-METOC and/or non-traditional sources (seismic, volcanic, etc.).
◊ Coordinate/direct ARTYMET reports.
◊ Weather or SOF special reconnaissance missions.
◊ Establish indigenous weather reporting networks.
◊ Determine the source of this information (national, regional, and indigenous
centers; JTF assets; reconnaissance flights; TARWI/PIREPs). Determine who or
what group or component will put out the various forecasts (Air Refueling,
Landing Zone, Drop Zone, etc.).
◊ If the JMO does not issue the JOAF, determine how the JMO will approve it prior
being released.
- Coordinate use of bulletin boards, broadcasts/intercept (HF, Fleet Multichannel, Metassi,
GBS), homepages, WAN/LAN, AWN, MIST, DMS, NIPRNET/SIPRNET, etc.).
• Review JTF HQ joint manning documents, update and modify as necessary, ensuring that
METOC personnel required to support the HQ are reflected in the TPFDD. Consider
composition, skills, experience levels, and service mix of JTF HQ METOC personnel.
• Obtain SIPRNET/NIPRNET access identification numbers and passwords into MFCs, if

necessary.
• Identify METOC communications requirements, coordinate with the J6 (through J-2/3 if

appropriate). This includes communications at the JTF HQ (telephones, comm circuits, etc.)
and for connection to the components. (Note: This complements your information
management plan).
• From components, determine requirements for MANOP headers (FOXX** XXXX).

Coordinate to have DMS messages entered directly into the AWN/MIST as required. Work
through appropriate Service channels to relay requests for MANOP headers to AFWA or
FLENUMMETOCCEN, as appropriate.
• From components, determine requirements for KQ identifiers to include data types for the
KQs (SA, UJ, SD, etc.). Note: Obtain the KQ identifiers from AFWA or
FLENUMMETOCCEN, as appropriate.
• Encourage coordination among component staff weather officers and oceanographers. Also
coordinate for strategic airlift and tanker mission METOC support with deployed air mobility
elements or the Air Mobility Command functional manager, and with the appropriate
6-7
numbered Fleet METOC officer and Military Sealift Command for METOC issues regarding
strategic sealift.
• Ensure customers/components have plans to accommodate natural disasters (e.g., hurricanes,

volcano eruptions, etc.).
• Be aware of possible challenges resulting from the various Service cultures:

- Communications:
> Navy widely uses SIPRNET, the USAF/Army use NIPRNET, particularly for
peacetime/garrison operations.
> Type of coordination: USAF/Army use emails and formal memos, while the Navy
tends to use messaging (DMS) via classified routing (typically available on ships).
> USAF/Army typically issue detailed instructions in Letters of Instruction (LOIs),
because each deployment's missions vary and must be synchronized; the Navy's
mission and operations are largely the same each time out, with much less detailed
guidance promulgated.
- Planning cycles may differ:
> USAF/Army plan exercises and set requirements often with a 1-2 year lead time,
using Initial, Mid, and Final Planning Conferences; Navy METOC often takes a look
at what the Fleet is doing, and develops supporting requirements at the last minute.
> Air operations: the USAF likes the Joint Force Air Component Commander (JFACC)
concept, and uses the Air Tasking Order (ATO) to centralize air operations planning.
AF weather must look out 3-5 days to support the ATO cycle. Navy carrier operators
(who want to reserve part of the air assets for Fleet defense, as do the Marines for
Air-Ground Task Force defense) typically require much shorter-term outlooks.
- Philosophies on JMFU operations may differ between Services.
> Is one even required? AF philosophy--minimize footprint and use regional hubs and
reach back capabilities to issue theater forecasts. Navy uses regional centers more as
a place to host deployed ships' products centrally.
> "Virtual" JMFU--Navy METOC centers responsive to changing information
requirements / database management for deployed ships; USAF regional hubs'
responsiveness variable.
- Remember coordination is the name of the game, even when the rank structure within the
JTF METOC structure is "out of whack".
> Can happen that the JMO will be junior in rank to senior weather officers on
component staffs. This is more likely when a MEF forms the core of a JTF, with a
Numbered Air Force (NAF) and a Navy fleet serving as AFFOR and NAVFOR.
> Remember each Staff METOC Officer works for their Commander, not another
staff’s METOC Officer. Think positional authority.
• THINK JOINT. Use Joint Doctrine, Instructions and SOP. Leave Service Tactics,
techniques and Procedures to the components.
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Chapter 7 - U.S. Navy METOC
This chapter describes U.S. Navy organizational structure, command relationships, and support
capabilities and requirements, including typical Navy METOC and communications equipment.
7.1 Naval Forces (NAVFOR)

Navy METOC is designed to support forces afloat worldwide and their associated Navy air,
surface, subsurface, special warfare, and amphibious forces. To do this, Navy forward deploys
meteorology and oceanography personnel aboard large deck aviation capable units: Aircraft
Carrier (CV), Nuclear Aircraft Carrier (CVN), Amphibious Assault Ships (LHA, LHD, LPD),
and Command Ships (LCC, MCS, AGF). These units have a fully capable METOC office and
are supported from the Navy regional METOC Forecast Centers (MFCs), the large production
centers (FNMOC, NAVOCEANO, AFWA), and any other available sources (AF OWS, National
Weather Service, and foreign weather sources). These ships provide METOC support to
associated forces deployed or operating in company and are fully capable of performing as a
JMFU for JTF. Additionally, the Navy provides mobile environmental teams (MET) to smaller
Navy surface ships and in support of joint operations ashore. METs provide a full range of
tactical support and are scaled (staffed) on a mission basis. Navy METOC shore activities
provide support to various CINCs as requested. In addition, all enlisted Navy navigators,
Quartermaster rating (QM) are trained to take synoptic observations on ships that do not carry
Navy enlisted METOC personnel, Aerographers (AGs).
Figure 7-1. Navy Afloat METOC Support Structure
Chief of Naval Operations (CNO)

N096 Oceanographer of the Navy
Commander in Chief Commander in Chief Commander in Chief Commander in Chief

U.S. Atlantic Fleet U.S. Navy Europe U.S. Pacific Fleet Naval Forces, CENTCOM
(CINCLANTFLT) (CINCUSNAVEUR) (CINCPACFLT) (NAVCENT)
Norfolk, VA London, UK Pearl Harbor, HI Bahrain
Staff Oceanographer Staff Oceanographer Staff Oceanographer Staff Oceanographer
Commander, Second Fleet Commander, Third Fleet Commander, Seventh Fleet

(COMSECONDFLT) (COMTHIRDFLT) (COMSEVENTHFLT)
Norfolk, VA San Diego, CA Yokosuka, Japan
Staff Oceanographer Staff Oceanographer Staff Oceanographer
Commander, Sixth Fleet Commander, Fifth

(COMSIXTHFLT) Fleet
Gaeta, IT (COMFIFTHFLT)
Staff Oceanographer Bahrain
Staff Oceanographer
Carrier Battle Groups (CVBG) or Amphibious Ready Groups (ARG) as assigned

with organic METOC assets (see Figure 7-2)
• Skill issues for Navy METOC personnel:
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7-Navy
- Oceanography Officer designator is 1800 and 6460 for Limited Duty Officers (LDOs).
Typically senior O-3s and above have attended Naval Postgraduate School and hold a
Master of Science degree in Meteorology and Oceanography or Geospatial Information
Services (GIS)
- NEC 7412 indicates a graduate of Aerographer’s C School (forecaster)
- NEC 7412 is required for advancement to Chief; therefore, all E-7s and above have been
to forecasting school
- There is no NEC assigned to weather observers; however, all Aerographer’s attend AG-A
School (observer). Quartermasters are required to attend annual refresher training
provided by Aerographers.
7.1.1 Navy Employment Concepts
FLEET COMMANDER
Battle Group Commander

(Cruiser Destroyer Group/Carrier Group)
Staff Oceanographer (O-4 / O-5)
Carrier LPH/LHA/LHD Mobile

OA Division OA Division Environmental Team
Figure 7-2. Navy Battle Group Organization
• Shipboard weather offices conduct:

- Operations Area (BG/TF) Forecasts
- Sea and surf conditions, current and forecast
- Local area severe weather warnings/advisories
- Continuous surface weather observation program
- Upper atmospheric soundings
- Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts for the ship’s flight deck and the local area along track
- Climatological, astronomical, and tidal data
- Pilot to METRO Services (PMSV) on authorized radio frequencies
- Aviation weather briefs as required by OPNAVINST 3710.7
- Electro-Optic Tactical Decision Aids (EOTDAs) for mission planning and weapons
system optimization
- Electro-magnetic effects products such as Integrated Refractive Effects Prediction
System (IREPS) or Advanced Refractive Environmental Prediction System (AREPS) for
mission planning and optimization of Electronic Warfare Support (ES), Electronic Attack
(EA) and Electronic Protection (EP)
- Target area, en route, mission, and staff weather briefings
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7-Navy
- Acoustic propagation and non-acoustic forecasts to support undersea warfare (USW)

- Tailored support to submarines included in or operating with the battle group
- Amphibious ships (or carriers when amphibious ship’s weather office is not available)
provide amphibious objective area forecasts that include flight weather, surf conditions,
and refractive conditions for the littoral area where amphibious operations will be
conducted
• OA Division:
- Division Officer (1 x O-3/O-4)
- Leading Chief (1 x E-7/E-8)
- Forecasters (2-3 x E-6)
- Enlisted Operators/Techs (7-10)
- Equipment/software: Navy OA divisions use the Navy Integrated Tactical
Environmental Subsystem (NITES), the SMQ-11 satellite receiver, UMQ-12: Mini
Rawinsonde System (MRS), HF radio receivers, and the Geophysics Fleet Mission
Program Library (GFMPL) on desk top/lap top computer systems. Equipment and
software descriptions are at paragraph 7.2.
• Mobile Environmental Team:

- Afloat or ashore
- Officer and/or enlisted - typically 1-3 members
- METOC communications limited at times. Will usually have NIPRNET/SIPRNET
capability
- HF receiver (fax and/or RATT)
- 75 wpm AWN receive only
- AUTODIN (or Defense Messaging System (DMS), when available)
- Limited number of satellite receivers/INMARSAT sets
- Lap tops with GFMPL and JMV
7.2 Navy METOC Equipment and Key Software
• Hardware
- Navy Integrated Tactical Environmental Subsystem (NITES) is a UNIX workstation

based system that is connected to SIPRNET via ship’s router and SHF satellite
communications. NITES provides a modular, interactive METOC analysis and
forecasting system to receive, process, display, and disseminate METOC data.
> NITES is installed at primary afloat sites, including 30 capital ships which have an
OA (Operations Aerology, i.e., METOC) division embarked. Receives and processes
onboard METOC sensor data (winds, temps, vis, etc.), AWN/MIST data, and
AN/SMQ-11 imagery (including Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP),
geostationary satellite, and TIROS data). The NITES/SMQ-11 interface is also used
to display WEFAX products. Details on the software suite in NITES are contained in
the user manual.
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7-Navy
> NITES is also installed at some Navy METOC shore commands to provide the link to
move METOC information from NITES to the Global Command and Control System
- Maritime (GCCS-M) system. NITES is connected via a gateway to the ship’s
tactical LAN and via ship’s communications to the SHF tactical IP network for
SIPRNET connectivity.
- Mini Rawinsonde System (MRS) is installed in ships and carried by METs.
- MOSS (Mobile Oceanographic Support System) and the Interim MOSS (IMOSS),
installed on desktop/laptop computers, are used by Mobile Environmental Teams when
deployed at sea and ashore. Generally includes communications software to connect to
INTERNET/SIPRNET. Also contains GFMPL and EOTDA software.
- Expendable Bathythermograph Recorder (XBT) installed in ships and carried by METs.
- HF radio receivers for fax and/or RATT installed in ships.
- The Navy relies quite heavily on AUTODIN/Defense Messaging System (DMS)

communications. Most ships with a METOC Division use SIPRNET, e-mail, IRC chat
and Joint METOC Viewer (JMV) for data acquisition.
• Software
- Laptop/desktop computers
> Communications software
> JMV. Joint METOC Viewer downloads "thumbnails" that include gridded METOC
data fields, permitting the user to view data fields of choice
> Unclassified Geophysical Fleet Mission Program Library (GFMPL) and Secret
GFMPL (SFMPL)
> Electro-optical decision aid software (Target Acquisition Weather Software (TAWS))
> HF Prophet
> IREPS/AREPS (Advanced Refractive Environmental Prediction System)
- Commercial web browsers
7.3 Navy METOC Communications and Computers
• Information Systems
- Global Command and Control System - Maritime (GCCS-M) and the Joint Maritime
Communications Strategy (JMCOMS). The Navy, through architectural initiatives such
as the Joint Maritime Command Information System (JMCIS) and Joint Maritime
Communications Strategy (JMCOMS), is standardizing its C4I applications and services
within the Defense Information Infrastructure (DII) Common Operating Environment
(COE). JMCIS is the maritime Command and Control (C2) program that supports U.S.
Navy and Coast Guard operational units. JMCOMS supports the transfer of C2
information in a manner transparent to the user.
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The Navy has identified seven information functional categories that encompass a
number of operational needs: (1) plan operations, (2) manage readiness, (3) manage the
battlespace, (4) fuse intelligence/sensor information, (5) correlate information, (6)
command forces, and (7) support C4I system operations. In order to satisfy these
functional needs the Navy has established a number of system requirements for
JMCOMS. Although not listed here, these requirements are allocated to the various
applications, the DII COE and communications. GCCS-M uses plug-and-play software
to define functionality and to provide access to common services. Plug-and-play
components enable the user, according to his/her privileges, to access the following:
> Core Systems Services > Status of Forces

> Warfare Applications > Cryptologic Support
> Undersea Warfare Systems > Messaging
> Briefing Support > LAN/WAN
> Logistics Support > Tactical/Track Management
> Training > NATO Support
> USMC Support > Imagery
> Joint Intelligence > Employment scheduling
> Communications interface > Remote Access
> METOC > Systems and Resource Management
> Utilities/Tools
- GCCS-M. The Navy has transitioned to the Global Command and Control System –
Maritime. The GCCS-M software has a METOC segment known as NITES II. The
NITES II METOC segment enables the GCCS-M user to ingest gridded field,
observational, and imagery data. Gridded fields (available via JMV 3.0 and
FLENUMMETOCCEN) are displayed as contours (standard and color filled) and wind
barbs. A threshold feature enables GCCS-M users to view areas of potential hazards
(high winds and seas), plus imagery and METOC status boards (stop light displays). The
user can display bathythermograph, radiosonde, and surface observations, as well as
atmospheric refractivity and acoustic conditions.
- TBMCS/JDISS. Command ships and selected aircraft carriers are capable of supporting
the CJTF and functional component commanders. These ships routinely host the Theater
battle Management Core System (TBMCS). Existing GCCS workstations can easily be
configured for joint staffs by installing additional segments for joint planning. These
ships also host the Joint Deployable Intelligence Support System (JDISS).
• Satellite Communications Systems. Naval forces located at sustaining bases and

command centers ashore, use the DII DISN for information push and pull. The DISN
provides a seamless web of high capacity communications networks, computer databases,
applications, and other information processing and transport. Naval forces not at
sustaining bases and command centers transfer information via the Copernicus
Architecture pillars known as TADIXS and BCIXS. The Tactical Data Information
Exchange System (TADIXS) and Battlecube Information Exchange System (BCIXS)
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rely upon RF media. This requires the efficient utilization and networking of
communications resources at all available frequency bands (i.e., ELF, VLF/LF, HF/VHF,
UHF, HF, EHF). Commercial SATCOM systems used by the Navy include the GTE
SpaceNet, International Maritime Satellite System (INMARSAT), and Challenge Athena.
Table 7-1. Military SATCOM Attributes
Attribute UHF SHF EHF

Service Ship-to-Shore Ship-to-Shore Ship-to-Shore
Shore-to-Ship Shore-to-Shore Ship-to-Ship
Ship-to-Ship Shore-to-Ship Shore-to-Ship
Probability of High Low Low
Intercept
Threat Protection None Limited Anti-Jam (AJ) High AJ and
Scintillation Protection
Missions Tactical Tactical/Strategic Tactical/Strategic
Platforms Surface Ships, Major Combatants and Major Combatants and
Connectivity Submarines, Selected Surface Selected Surface
Airborne Terminals Ships, Airborne Ships, Submarines,
Terminals and Airborne
Terminals
Frequency Band 0.3 to 3.0 GHz 3 to 30 GHz 30 to 300 GHZ
Interoperability Joint/Allied/Non- Joint/Allied Joint
DOD
Operations Supported Netted (multi-user), Netted, Point-to-Point, Netted, Point-to-Point,
Half-duplex Full-duplex, Broadcast Half-duplex, Full-
Services, Broadcast duplex, Broadcast
EMP Hardened No Selected Terminals Yes
Polar Coverage 5 kHz chnls only None Potential/Not
implemented
Ongoing Performance DAMA, Auto- DAMA Mode, MDR Mode (increase
Upgrade DAMA, Quad- Broadcast, Mode, from 2.4 to 1544 Kbps
DAMA Improved AJ planned)
7.4 Navy METOC Data

7.4.1 Navy METOC Data Sources
The following represent the most significant sources of METOC data within the Navy tactical
structure: Battle Force Surface Ships, Carrier Air Wing, Maritime Patrol Aircraft, and
Submarines. METOC observations taken by these units consist of surface weather, upper air,
pilot reports (PIREPs), and bathythermograph data.
• Battle Force Surface Ships. All Battle Force/Group surface combatants (aircraft carriers,
cruisers, destroyers, frigates, amphibious, mine warfare, and logistics support ships) provide
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METOC surface weather observations every six hours while at sea. These reports are
submitted on the synoptic hours of 0000Z, 0600Z, 1200Z, and 1800Z. If visibility is less
than 1 NM, winds exceed 35 knots, or the seas exceed 12 feet, the reporting rate increases to
every three hours until the condition(s) improve. All ships at sea are required to take regular
observations, but when ships are steaming in company or in close proximity the Officer in
Tactical Command (OTC) may designate one ship to report for the group.
- All anti-submarine warfare (ASW) ships (cruisers, destroyers, and frigates) collect
bathythermograph (BT) data by dropping an expendable temperature sensor into the sea.
The collection rate of BT data is driven by operational requirements.
- Upper-air observations are regularly collected by those Navy vessels with a permanently
assigned METOC division (OA Division) or embarked Mobile Environmental Team
(MET). Upper-air observations are taken at the synoptic times of 0000Z and 1200Z, as
operations permit.
• Carrier Air Wing. Aircrews provide meteorological observations, pilot reports (PIREPs), as
specified by their mission, or when required in areas of sparse data (e.g., oceanic, target
weather). PIREPs are submitted via radio or upon return from the flight to the carrier
weather office (or shore-based weather office, if the aircraft recover ashore).
• Maritime Patrol Aircraft. Aircrews provide meteorological observations as specified by their

mission, or when required in areas of sparse data (e.g., oceanic). Aircraft observations are
transmitted when radio contact is made, or are delivered, along with observations of
unexpected en route weather, to the NAVMETOCCOM activity at the air station at which the
aircraft lands. Sonobuoy-equipped aircraft take airborne expendable bathythermograph
(AXBT) observations in open ocean areas where depths exceed 100 fathoms. A minimum of
one BT observation is taken during each anti-submarine warfare (ASW) flight which uses
sonobuoys. Collected data is submitted to the NAVMETOC activity at the air station at
which the aircraft lands.
• Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs). UAVs and
UUVs are an increasingly important source of weather and oceanographic information in the
battlespace near strategic and tactical locations. METOC data are made available via the C2
systems used for piloting and reconnaissance imagery.
• Submarines. Submarines are exempted from these requirements only when operational
requirements preclude the taking of observations. They are capable of collecting surface
weather and bathythermograph observations and can be tasked with this mission.
• Aegis cruisers. Selected Aegis cruisers will have a new capability, Tactical Environmental
Processor (TEP), in which the phased array radar on an Aegis cruiser acts as a weather
sensor. Among the capabilities are refractivity profiling and acting as a Doppler Weather
radar.
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• Communication Procedures. Navy METOC data are classified at the same level as the
platform mission (often to protect operating location). METOC observations collected by the
Navy are forwarded to the Collective Address Designator (CAD) message address,
"OCEANO WEST" and “OCEANO EAST”. This CAD distributes these observations to the
NAVPACMETOCCEN Pearl Harbor HI, NAVLANTMETOCCEN Norfolk VA,
FLENUMMETOCCEN Monterey CA, NAVOCEANO Stennis Space Center MS, and
AFWA Offutt AFB NE for use in their forecast models and for further distribution to all
Navy fleet units requiring observation data.
• Other Sources of Data
- Fleet Multichannel Broadcast - (channel 8/15) 300 bps AWN / MIST data broadcast
tailored by the Theater METOC Center for their AOR
- HF Facsimile broadcast – The USN no longer broadcasts, but many foreign countries still
do.
- SEALS - Surf observations, beach survey data
- Drifting buoys - automated weather observations, ocean temps at surface and at depths,
sea height and period
- Deployed Mobile Environmental Teams with MRS
- PIREPs
- Special Weather Intelligence (SWI)
- Internet activities. Both government and commercial activities (e.g., National Weather
Service, USA Today, Weather Underground)
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7.4.2 Navy METOC Data Products
7.4.2.1 Navy METOC Centralized Products

NAVY METEOROLOGY AND OCEANOGRAPHY COMMAND
Stennis Space Center, MS
FLENUMMETOCCEN NAVOCEANO NAVLANTMETOCCEN NAVEURMETOCCEN

Monterey, CA Stennis Space Norfolk, VA Rota, SP
Center, MS
FLENUMMETOC DET
NAVPACMETOCCEN NAVLANTMETOCFAC NAVEURMETOC DET
Asheville, NC
Pearl Harbor, HI NAVICECEN Jacksonville, FL Naples, IT
Tinker AFB, OK
Suitland, MD Sigonella, IT
Souda Bay, CR
NAVLANTMETOC DET
NAVPACMETOCCEN SNR’S Guantanamo Bay, CU
Yokosuka, JA Key West, FL
OCEANOGRAPHIC Mayport, FL
NAVPACMETOC DET New London, CT
SHIPS
Atsugi, JA Roosevelt Roads, PR
Kadena, JA Kings Bay, GA
Misawa, JA Oceana, VA
Sasebo, JA Brunswick, ME
Keflavik, IC
NAVCENTMETOCCEN Patuxent River, MD
Bahrain
NAVCENTMETOCDET NAVTRAMETOCFAC
Diego Garcia
Pensacola, FL
NAVPACMETOCCEN NAVTRAMETOC DET

San Diego, CA Corpus Christi, TX
Kingsville, TX
NAVPACMETOC DET Fort Worth, TX
Bangor, WA Meridan, MS
El Centro, CA New Orleans, LA
Fallon, NV NAVPACMETOCFAC Newport, RI
Lemoore, CA Whidbey Island, WA Whitiing Field, FL
Willow Grove, PA
Figure 7-3. Navy Shore METOC Organization
7.4.2.1.1 Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO, NAVO) and the Warfighting Support
Center (WSC)
• Organization. Navy-controlled, named organization assigned to the Commander, Naval

Meteorology and Oceanography Command (CNMOC).
• Mission. Primary oceanographic production center for the Navy. Operational support
includes near real-time oceanographic products, detailed front and eddy analysis/guidance to
Naval Regional Oceanography and Command centers worldwide in support of Fleet
Operations.
• Products and Services
- Analyzed imagery of littoral areas
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> Images obtained from LANDSAT, USGS, aerial, SPOT, or National Technical
Means (NTM)
> Images analyzed to extract oceanographic parameters
> Time series correlated with seasons, tidal cycles, and atmospheric forcing
> Analysis information fused with oceanographic database
> Analysis displayed as image overlay, graphic, or short text write-up
> Image is geo-rectified and latitude-longitude scale is applied
> METOC information displayed on such charts includes:
◊ Any detected obstructions, reefs, or shoals
◊ Estimate of nearshore currents during ebb and flood tides
◊ Turbidity plumes
◊ Location of any sewage outfalls
◊ Typically expected sea surface temperatures
◊ Any available data on water clarity
◊ Hazardous biological marine life
> Annotated imagery typically produced on 1:50000 or 1:25000 scale
> Image can be transmitted via JDISS, classified email, SIPRNET, FTP, or classified
PC bulletin board system
> Full resolution file size 100-300 MB, although screen capture and compression
techniques (with decrease in clarity) reduce size to 1 MB or less
> NAVOCEANO can produce 3 ft by 4 ft product on high quality printer
• Special Tactical Oceanographic Information Chart (STOIC)

- 1:25000 scale 8 nm x 8 nm special purpose chart depicting nearshore hydrographic
conditions with oceanographic data tailored for mine warfare, amphibious operations, or
special operations (e.g., tides, currents, bottom sediments) displayed along the chart
border
- Produced for fleet operations, exercises or mission planning purposes
- Available hard copy or on the SIPRNET
- Land portion of chart may consist of an image, when appropriate.
• Environmental Support Packages (ESP)

- Describes nearshore oceanographic conditions by providing available, evaluated data on
nearshore hydrography, tides, currents, marine life, water clarity, etc.
- Can complement annotated imagery, or be a stand-alone product
- OESs are communication efficient and can be produced for short-fused requests while
imagery is enroute
• Special Support. Examples of WSC-CSB support includes:

- Detailed analysis of water density and currents at a specific location
- Analysis of the suitability of beach landing zones
- Summary of oceanographic conditions in support of new technology deployments
- Users should submit requests via AUTODIN/DMS message
- Call POCs for product availability
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• Product Strengths and Limitations

- Strengths:
> Oceanographic products based upon imagery significantly increases the warfighters’
battlespace awareness
> Analysis of oceanographic features based upon remote sensing is frequently the only
way to qualitatively or quantitatively describe specific near-shore oceanographic
conditions for a beach or harbor
> Recent remote sensing data updates oceanographic surveys taken years or decades
ago
- Limitations:
> Much of METOC data directly derived from remote sensing is qualitative
> NRL and Navy TENCAP are engaged in quantitative analysis of such parameters;
when quantitative analysis techniques are validated, they will be considered
operational
> High resolution imagery equates to small areas
◊ LANDSAT and SPOT products typically cover an area no larger than 40 nm by
50 nm.
◊ Images based on NTM imagery describe smaller areas.
◊ STOIC chart normally describes an area 8 nm by 8 nm.
• Product Dissemination
- Some image products are available from the NAVOCEANO SIPRNET homepage or can
be uploaded
- Overnight mail (when time allows)
- Shipped via regional METOC center for further transfer (overseas/afloat units)
- Sent via JDISS, SOCRATES, classified PC-PC BBS, or AUTODIN (products requiring
quicker transmission)
- Will work with customer and regional METOC center to determine best method
• Request Procedures
- Submit routine requests to the regional METOC centers by record message (preferred) or
via telephone (info NAVOCEANO Stennis Space Center MS//N22//)
- Submit short fused requests to NAVOCEANO (info the appropriate regional METOC
center)
- Requests requiring higher levels of classification may be received via “backchannel”
traffic
- Requests should contain the following information:
> Command requesting the product
> Name of exercise or operation
> Location of request (be as specific as possible; a latitude-longitude box is preferred)
> Forces being supported (e.g., amphibious, SOF, mine, etc.). Include description of
intended use of the product to ensure product is tailored to the specific operation
> Required date to receive product.
> Desired transmission method of product (i.e., JDISS, mail, etc.).
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> Name and telephone number for a POC.
• Points of Contact:. All phone numbers are commercial (228) 688-XXXX; DSN prefix 828
- Requests for products, or status of requests:
> Customer Rep: X4369/ X5216.
> Products Home Page: 199.208.205.50/products.html
- Warfighting Support Center:
> Director: X5152, X4555.
> Deputy Director: X5152, X4135.
- After hours (24 hours/day operations):
> NAVOCEANO CDO: X5176.
7.4.2.1.2 Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography Center (FLENUMMETOCCEN,

FNMOC)
• Organization. Navy-controlled, named organization assigned to the Commander, Naval

Meteorology and Oceanography Command.
• Mission. Produces the Department of Defense automated numerical meteorological and

oceanographic guidance, manned 24 hours/day.
• Products and Services. FNMOC and the National Center for Environmental Prediction
(NCEP) are the only production centers (i.e., run models to produce global METOC
forecasts) in the USA and act as mutual backup. As well as running the Navy’s own suite of
models, FNMOC also provides selected NCEP products along with those produced by two
other global production centers; the European Center (ECMWF) and the Japanese Center
(JMA). FNMOC has a suite of “state of the art” oceanographic and meteorological models.
Products are in the form of satellite images, satellite derived data (special sensor microwave
imager or SSMI), and numerical fields, which users can display using JMV or NITES, or as
input into GFMPL or JMCIS to run tactical decision aids (TDAs). A standard list of
products is updated twice daily with special high resolution products and Data Request
Products (DRPs) available on request.
• Standard Products
- Navy Operational Global Atmospheric Prediction System (NOGAPS)

> NOGAPS 4.0 utilizes 159 spectral waves (82 km resolution) in the horizontal and 24
vertical atmospheric levels in sigma coordinates
> Multi-Variate Optimal Interpolation (MVOI) scheme is run twice daily producing
global prognostic fields through 120 hours
> Cressman (moisture) analysis of dew point depression including synthetic moisture
soundings consistent with SSM/I precipitable water samples
> Cumulus parameterization is a relaxed Arakawa-Schubert routine
> Model tends to develop systems faster and retain energy longer, however, explosive
deepening systems continue to be lagged
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> Increased skill in detecting tropical low formation verified
- Coupled Ocean / Atmosphere Mesoscale Prediction System (COAMPS)

> Incorporates non-hydrostatic physics, explicit moisture and improved data
assimilation
> Globally relocatable
> Supports nested grids at resolutions of less than 10 km
> Can be run stand-alone basis or fully coupled
> Provides for a fully interactive two-way coupling between the ocean and atmosphere
> Typically run at FNMOC, with capabilities being fielded at the regional centers
- Third-Generation Wave Model (WAM)

> Replaces Global Spectral Ocean Wave Model
> Based on wind stresses from either NOGAPS or NORAPS
> Produces wave forecasts out to 72 hours
> Run on a global 1.0 degree spherical grid with 15 degree angular resolution for
directional spectra, using a 20 minute propagation and source term time step
> Wave heights exhibit smaller mean errors, RMS errors, and scatter index indices than
those predicted by the GSOWM
- Thermodynamic Ocean Prediction System (TOPS 4.0)

> Predicts response of upper thermal structure of ocean to local atmospheric forcing and
provides surface currents for Search and Rescue applications
> Synoptic mixed-layer model consisting of conservation equations for temperature,
salinity, and momentum in the upper ocean
> Forced by heat flux and wind stress predicted by NOGAPS
> Includes horizontal advection of temperature and salinity due to wind drift and
geostrophic components of the current
- Optimal Thermal Interpolation System (OTIS 4.0)

> Produces SSTs on a global basis and a surface to bottom analysis of temperature and
salinity in two western boundary current regions
> Optimum interpolation data assimilation scheme which incorporates real-time
observational data and makes use of bogus front and eddy features provided by
NAVOCEANO
> Noted improvements in representation of warm and cold eddies and front and eddy
interaction events
> Grid mesh of 0.2 deg. latitude by 0.2 deg. longitude
> In Atlantic, western boundary region includes entire coastal and littoral environments
with bogus routine providing the Florida Loop Current, Gulf Stream, North Atlantic
Current, and the Shelf-Slope frontal system
> In Pacific, model includes Sea of Okhotsk and area east of Kamchatka, with bogus
providing Kuroshio, Oyashio, Soya, Kuril, and east Kamchatka Currents
- Polar Ice Prediction System (PIPS)
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> Dynamic/thermodynamic sea ice model based on formulation of Hibler and Semtner
> Consists of conservation equations for ice momentum, concentration, and thickness
which are coupled with ice rheology and ice-strength formulation
> Covers central Arctic basin and most of the marginal seas
> Driven by NOGAPS heat fluxes and surface wind stresses
> Model run once per day, providing 120 hour forecasts of ice drift, concentration, and
thickness
> Model updated weekly by NAVICECEN analysis of satellite-based ice concentration
- Special Products. Special high resolution forecast fields can be produced on request.
- Data Request Products. FNMOC services a limited number of Data Request Products
including:
> Bathythermograph Data Extract (BTXT)
> Environmental Lines (ENVR)
> General Environmental Message (GEM)
> Point Data Extract (PNTDT)
> Search and Rescue (NSAR)
> Refractive Information By Station (RIBS)
> Spout Data (SPOUT)
> Ballistic Wind and Density (BALW)
> Grid Data Extract (OMDAT or FEXT)
> Sound Focusing (SNDFO)
> Climatological Bathythermograph Extract (JJPRO)
- Standard products available via NODDS.
- Joint METOC Viewer available on SIPRNET / NIPRNET.
- A selection of products is available via JDISS, SIPRNET, and NIPRNET.
- Standard products: JMV products available directly from FNMOC on SIPRNET /
NIPRNET; NODDS products available directly from FNMOC by modem / NIPRNET
- Special products:
> Special areas can be produced within 7-10 days
> Early liaison essential to meet customer needs
> Send request via letter or message to FNMOC (ATTN: OPS Officer)
> Send short notice requests to Fleet Liaison Officer via telephone (DSN 878-2255,
COMM 408-656-2255) or e-mail ([email protected])
- Data Request Products

> Send requests for SARs via telephone to Command Duty Officer (DSN 878-4325;
Comm (408) 656-4325)
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> All other DRPs should be requested by AUTODIN message to the regional METOC
center which will format and forward it to FNMOC
- Points of Contact
> Products on SIPRNET, NIPRNET, JDISS
◊ DSN 878-4219
◊ SIPRNET homepage: http://www.fnmoc.smil.mil
◊ Unclass email: [email protected]
◊ NIPRNET Home Page: http://www.fnmoc.navy.mil
> Products on JMV/NODDS
◊ Bill Ensley DSN 878-4376
> Technical details about ocean models
◊ Mike Clancy DSN 878-4414
> Technical details about atmospheric models
◊ Charlie Mauck DSN 878-4374
> Data Request Products. CDO: DSN 878-4302/4326, Comm 408-656-4302/4326,
[email protected]
7.4.2.1.3 Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography (FLENUMMETOC) Detachment

(DET) Asheville
• Organization. Fourth echelon activity reporting to FLENUMMETOCCEN, within the

organizational structure of the Commander, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography
Command.
• Mission. To provide the best available climatological products, data, and services to support
the global operating forces of the Navy, Marine Corps, and DoD.
• Background. FLENUMMETOC DET Asheville is a member of the Federal Climate

Complex. We are co-located with the National Climate Data Center (NCDC) and the Air
Force Combat Climatology Center (AFCCC) in Asheville, North Carolina. A cooperative
agreement between the three agencies provides us access to the world’s largest active archive
of meteorological data, as well as, global baseline data sets developed for global climate
monitoring, and a wide variety of climatological summaries and products.
• Functions. FLENUMMETOC DET Asheville's major functions include: (a) Archive and
quality control surface and upper air meteorological observation data submitted by fleet and
shore-based Navy and Marine Corps units, (b) Archive selected FLENUMMETOCCEN
model output analysis fields, (c) Plan, direct and supervise the development, and routine
update of an interactive, digital-based product suite of climatological references, (d)
Develop, submit, and maintain configuration management of designated atmospheric
summarized climatological and observation databases for utilization in the Oceanographic
and Atmospheric Master Library (OAML), Naval Warfare Tactical Data Base (NWTDB) and
Master Environmental Library (MEL).
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• Products and Services.
The products listed below provide customers visiting our web site the opportunity to display
climatological information/data in the form of a chart for predefined areas.
Web Site: http://navy.ncdc.noaa.gov/
Upper Air - The NCEP/NCAR Reanalysis Data from a Joint Project between the
National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP, formerly "NMC") and the National
Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR). Data are on a 2.5-degree lat./long grid for 1000-
10 mb levels by year-month (1949-2000) and period of record-month for 1958-1997.
Fleet Historical Fields - One-degree data received from FLENUMMETOCCEN
Monterey, CA. Currently available NOGAPS levels are surface -10 mb, and elements
include Relative Humidity (%), Temperature (Celsius), Geopotential Height (m), Wind Barbs
(kts) and from WAM are Significant Wave Heights (ft), Significant Wave Direction,
Significant Wave Period (sec) (1997-current).
Surface Marine Gridded Climatology- 1-degree lat./long. summary containing
mean, median, std deviation, max, min, and count of occurrence for every element in a ship
synoptic observation derived from the Comprehensive Oceanographic and Atmospheric Data
Set (COADS) (1854-1997).
Other Products available on Web site are

Tropical Summaries - displays similar to those on GTECCA CD-ROM updated with
latest tracks, and narratives, plus charts of Climatological Preferred Tracks, Basin Statistical
Graphs, and Initial Point of Hurricane Stage Images.
Internet Dynamic Environmental Atmospheric Summaries, Data Display System
(DDS) - is downloadable software program that provides an interactive, clickable and
zoomable map that allows users to define a geographic region of interest (ROI), and displays
in chart form, Upper Air, Fleet Historical Fields, Surface Marine Gridded Climatology, and
Tropical Summaries over the ROI.
Global Marine Climatic Atlas Version 1.2 - derived from the Comprehensive
Ocean Atmospheric Data Set (COADS), which includes virtually all marine data from 1854
through 1997. GMCA data is stored in 1-deg. x 1-deg. boxes. The user can define the
geographic area, beginning and ending; month, year and hour. Data is extracted and
summarized on-the-fly which is then displayed as statistical analysis in tabular form (Mean,
Median, Min, Max, Std Dev, and Mode) for all elements and as a graphical display for user
selected elements (Single and Bi-Variate Frequency Distribution).
Digital Publications - the complete collection of "Near Coastal Zone Studies", "U.S.
Navy Regional Climatic Studies", and the "U. S. Navy Marine Climatic Atlas of the World,
Volumes 1-5" have been scanned into ADOBE readable format. Individual publications are
available on CD-ROM upon request.
CD-ROM Climatology Products

These CD-ROMs are DOS based products and DO NOT operate on all
Windows platforms. However, most of the information available on these
CD-ROMs is now available on our web site.
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International Station Meteorological Climate Summary

Marine Climatic Atlas of the World
Global Upper Air Climatic Atlas, Vol. I & II
Global Tropical and Extratropical Cyclone Climatic Atlas
Global Historical Fields
• Future Plans:
FLENUMMETOC DET will establish a SIPRNET web site sometime during the summer of
2002. Funds have been made available for the project and the paper work has been
submitted.
It is also working with the other agencies in the Federal Climate Complex on the
development of an Integrated Surface Hourly (ISH) database. The ISH project will not only
replace, but also exceed the capability of the International Station Meteorological Climate
Summary CD that was released in 1996. The first phase of the ISH should be completed in
the fall of 2002, with further development planned for 2003.
• Points of Contact:
FLENUMMETOCCEN DET Asheville

Federal Building, Room 563
151 Patton Avenue
Asheville, NC 28801-5014
Telephone: (828) 252-7865, 271-4852/4232
STU-III: (828) 271-4874
Facsimile: (828) 271-4672
Message: FLENUMMETOCCEN DET ASHEVILLE NC//00//
E-mail: [email protected]
Web: http://navy.ncdc.noaa.gov/
7.4.2.1.4 U.S. Naval Observatory (USNO)
• Organization. Navy-controlled organization assigned to the Oceanographer of the Navy

(N096)
• Mission. Determine the positions and motions of celestial bodies, the motion of the Earth,
and precise time; provide astronomical and timing data required by the Navy and other DoD
components for navigation, precise positioning, and command, control, and communications
• Products and Services. USNO provides a wide range of practical astronomical data and
timing products. The products are available as hardcopy publications, stand-alone computer
applications, and data services accessible via the Internet and other sources
• Standard Products
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- Practical astronomical data

> STELLA: stand-alone PC software available directly from USNO; provides basic
almanac data for navigational bodies, full sight planning and reduction, times of
twilight, sunrise, sunset, moonrise, and moonset for fixed sites or vessel underway,
and moon illumination
> Nautical Almanac: annual hardcopy publication distributed by the Defense Supply
Center Richmond (DSCR) provides basic almanac data for use in marine navigation
and other applications
> Air Almanac: annual hardcopy publication distributed by DSCR provides basic
almanac data for use in air navigation and other applications
> Data services and astronomical information available on the USNO Astronomical
Applications website, http://aa.usno.navy.mil/AA/
> Information on astronomical standards and astronomical reference frames available at
the Astrometry Department website, http://aa.usno.navy.mil/ad/
- Precise time--dissemination of USNO master clock time

> Two-Way Satellite Time Transfer (TWSTT): USNO time can be transferred to users
via geostationary communications satellites to an accuracy of 1 nanosecond
> Global Positioning System: USNO time can be acquired from GPS satellites. Precise
Positioning Service (PPS) GPS timing receivers can receive time to an accuracy of
about 30 nanoseconds and Standard Positioning Service (SPS) GPS timing receivers
can receive time to an accuracy of about 200 nanoseconds, provided the receivers
have been calibrated and certified at USNO
> Network Time Protocol (NTP): USNO time can be acquired via the NIPRNET and
SIPRNET to an accuracy of about 10 milliseconds
> Time via telephone modem: USNO time can be acquired via telephone modem to an
accuracy of about 1/100 of a second
> Telephone time voice announcer: USNO time can be acquired via telephone time
announcer to an accuracy of about 1/10 of a second
> USNO Master Clock time data and personnel contact information is available on the
Time Service website, http://tycho.usno.navy.mil
- Earth orientation
> International Earth Rotation Service (IERS) Bulletin A: reports of the latest
determinations and predictions for polar motion, UT1-UTC, and nutation offsets at
daily intervals are distributed twice weekly by email; subscription form is available at
http://maia.usno.navy.mil/
> Earth orientation files: updated daily and available by anonymous ftp; full
descriptions available at http://maia.usno.navy.mil
> Leap seconds: announcements made in IERS Bulletin C, available at
http://maia.usno.navy.mil
> DUT1: these course values for (UT1-UTC) are transmitted with timing signals and
announced in IERS Bulletin D, available at http://maia.usno.navy.mil
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• Point of contact:
Scientific Director Address: US Naval Observatory
DSN: 762-1513 3450 Massachusetts Ave., NW
Secure: DSN 762-1513 Washington DC 20392-5420
Facsimile: DSN 762-1461 PLAD: NAVOBSY WASHINGTON DC//SD//
7.4.2.2 Navy METOC Theater Products
• Navy METOC Regional Centers, Facilities, and Detachments shown in Figure 7-3 can
provide some or all of the following products:
- Prog blends - charts and messages/bulletins that merge the various models to determine
the best regional forecast
- Sea height analysis and forecasts - sea height analysis based on ship observations and
buoy information; high sea forecast areas are derived from projected tracks of low
pressure systems, tropical systems, and/or significant wind gradients
- OPAREA forecasts - forecasts for designated fleet operating areas, including synoptic
weather and 24-hour forecasts
- WEAX - enroute forecasts to ships operating at sea
- OTSR (Optimum Track Ship Routing) - keeps ships out of destructive weather that
would adversely impact their operations
- Tropical weather forecasting
- Satellite imagery
- Oceanographic analysis and support
- JOAFs or point forecasts until the JTF HQ METOC cell is established.
- Mobile Environmental Team (MET) deployment
- Quality control and overview of Navy afloat or JOAF forecasts
- GCCS data - NITES can provide METOC overlays to include various warnings such as
high wind and sea, tropical, special weather advisories, Gulf Stream and ice edge data for
specific areas of interest (e.g., Joint Operational Area)
7.5 Key Naval METOC Centers and Facilities:
• Commander, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Center (CNMOC)—Stennis Space

Center MS
NIPRNET: http://www.cnmoc.navy.mil;
SIPRNET: http://www.cnmoc.navy.smil.mil
DSN 485-4582 / comm (228) 688-4582
• Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVO)—Stennis Space Center MS

NIPRNET: http://www.navo.navy.mil;
SIPRNET: http://www.navo.navy.smil.mil (199.208.205.50/index.html)
DSN 485-4357 / comm (228) 688-4357
• Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography Center (FNMOC), Monterey CA

NIPRNET: http://www.fnmoc.navy.mil;
SIPRNET: http://www.fnmoc.navy.smil.mil
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DSN 878-4302/4325 / comm (831) 656-4302/4325
• Naval Pacific Meteorology and Oceanography Center (NPMOC) and Joint Typhoon
Warning Center (JTWC), Pearl Harbor HI
NIPRNET: http://www.npmoc.navy.mil;
SIPRNET: http://www.npmoc.navy.smil.mil
NPMOC DSN 471-0004/4599; JTWC DSN 474-2320
• Naval Pacific Meteorology and Oceanography Center (NPMOC-SD), San Diego CA

NIPRNET: http://www.npmoc-sd.navy.mil;
SIPRNET: http://www.npmoc-sd.navy.smil.mil
DSN 735-2218 / comm (619) 545-2218
• Naval Pacific Meteorology and Oceanography Center - West (NPMOC-W), Yokosuka JA

NIPRNET: http://www.yoko.npmoc.nav.mil
SIPRNET: http://www.yoko.npmoc.navy.smil.mil
Outside Pacific: DSN 315-243-5595/7798; within Pacific: DSN 243-5595/7798
Comm 011-81-311-743-5595/7798
• Naval Atlantic Meteorology and Oceanography Center (NLMOC), Norfolk VA

NIPRNET: http://www.nlmoc.navy.mil
SIPRNET: http://www.nlmoc.navy.smil.mil (206.36.246.98)
DSN 564-7583/7750 / comm (757) 444-7583/7750
• Naval European Meteorology and Oceanography Center (NEMOC), Rota SP

NIPRNET: http://www.nemoc.navy.mil;
SIPRNET: http://www.nemoc.navy.smil.mil (199.10.143.131)
From CONUS: DSN 314-727-2410 / comm 011-34-956-82-2410
In Europe: DSN 727-2410 / comm 34-956-82-2410
• Naval Central Meteorology and Oceanography Center (NCMOC), Bahrain

SIPRNET: http://www.ncmoc.navy.smil.mil
DSN 318-439-4083 / local 724-083 / comm 973-72-4083
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8-USAF
Chapter 8 - U.S. Air Force METOC
This chapter describes U.S. Air Force organizational structure, command relationships, and
support capabilities and requirements, including typical USAF METOC and communications
equipment.
8.1 Air Force Forces (AFFOR)
8.1.1 Air Force Weather Support to Joint and Air Force Organizations.
Air Force Weather (AFW) personnel provide weather support to unified commands, major
commands (MAJCOMs), joint task forces (JTFs), numbered air forces (NAFs), operational
flying units (wings/squadrons), and air expeditionary forces (AEFs).
• Staff support to MAJCOMs is through Directors of Weather (typically designated DOW or

XOW), usually an O-6 with a staff of weather officers and senior NCOs. A NAF typically
has a Staff Weather Officer (SWO) and a small staff that is assigned to an attached
Operational Weather Squadron (OWS).
• Air Force weather support to flying operations is provided at three levels: strategic,
operational, and tactical, corresponding to the levels of war. This weather support is
provided by strategic level production centers (e.g., AFWA, AFCCC), operational level
squadrons (the OWSs), and tactical level combat weather teams (CWTs) assigned to flying
wings, squadrons, and AEFs. For Global Power missions, the lead weather support provider
is the ACC Weather Support Unit (WSU) at Langley AFB.
• When a NAF is tasked to deploy the Air Force component (AFFOR) and/or the Air
Operations Center (AOC), the AFFOR Commander and his staff will be supported by a SWO
(and possibly additional weather officers/NCOs). The AOC will have dedicated weather
support consisting of a mix of officer and enlisted personnel. (The number of personnel and
the capability deployed is determined by the size and scope of the planned operation.)
• When a JTF is formed, USAF weather personnel may be tasked to deploy and form or
augment a Joint METOC Forecast Unit (JMFU). Air Force weather personnel may also be
tasked to deploy a small cell (officer and enlisted) to support the Joint Task Force
Commander (JFC), the Joint Force Air Component Commander (JFACC), the Joint AOC
(JAOC), and the deployed (joint) staff.
• Deployed weather teams supporting flying units, AOCs, and/or staffs, reach back to the OWS
responsible for a Regional CINC’s Area of Responsibility (AOR) for theater/operational
level weather products. The OWS Combat Operations cell may act as the JMFU. (See
paragraph 3.3.2: AFW reengineering and use of "reach-back" makes use of a Joint METOC
Forecast Capability (JMFC), rather than utilizing a forward-deployed, operational level
production facility (the JMFU).
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U.S. AIR FORCE

HEADQUARTERS (XOW)
Director of Weather
AIR COMBAT AIR MOBILITY PACIFIC AIR AIR FORCE SPACE U.S. AIR FORCES
COMMAND (ACC) COMMAND (AMC) FORCES (PACAF) COMMAND (AFSPACE) IN EUROPE (USAFE)
LANGLEY, AFB SCOTT AFB, IL HICKAM AFB, HI PETERSON AFB RAMSTEIN AB, GE
(DOW) (DOW) (DOW) (DORW) (DOW)
14TH AIR FORCE

1ST AIR FORCE (ANG) 15TH AIR FORCE 5TH AIR FORCE 3RD AIR FORCE
VANDENBERG AFB, CA
TYNDALL AFB, FL TRAVIS AFB, CA YOKOTA AB, JAPAN RAF MILDENHALL, UK
(SWO)
(SWO) (SWO) (SWO) (SWO)
20TH AIR FORCE

8TH AIR FORCE 21ST AIR FORCE 7TH AIR FORCE 16TH AIR FORCE
F.E.WARREN AFB, WY
BARKSDALE AFB, LA MCGUIRE AFB, NJ OSAN AB, S. KOREA AVIANO AB, ITALY
(SWO)
(SWO) (SWO) (SWO) (SWO)
9TH AIR FORCE TANKER AIRLIFT 11TH AIR FORCE

SHAW AFB, SC CONTROL ELMENDORF AFB, AK
(SWO) CENTER (TACC) (SWO)
SCOTT AFB, IL
(SWO)
12TH AIR FORCE 15TH AIR BASE WING
DAVIS-MONTHAN HICKAM AFB, HI
AIR MOBILITY (SWO)
AFB, AZ AIR FORCE MATERIEL AIR EDUCATION AND
WARFARE
(SWO) COMMAND (AFMC) TRAINING COMMAND
CENTER
FT DIX, NJ 13TH AIR FORCE WRIGHT-PATTERSON (AETC)
AIR WARFARE ANDERSEN AFB, GUAM
AFB, OH RANDOLPH AFB, TX
CENTER (SWO)
(DOW) (DOW)
NELLIS AFB, NV
(SWO)
- - - communications (functional oversight) 2ND AIR FORCE 19TH AIR FORCE AIR UNIVERSITY
KEESLER AFB, MS RANDOLPH AFB, TX MAXWELL AFB, AL
MAJCOMs have command authority over NAFs; MAJCOM (SWO) (SWO) (SWO)
SWOs have functional oversight of subordinate weather units
Figure 8-1. Weather Support to Air Force
8.1.2 Air Force "Air Expeditionary Force" (AEF)
8.1.2.1 Commander, Air Force Forces (COMAFFOR) is designated for any operation conducted
by deployed USAF forces. USAF elements deployed in an expeditionary role are designated as
an Aerospace Expeditionary Task Force (ASETF). The ASETF is the designated USAF
organization to fulfill the JTC's and JFACC's campaign objectives. (Usually, the COMAFFOR
will also serve as the JFACC.) The command element includes the ASETF commander (the
COMAFFOR), staff, and a command and control function (the AOC). The NAF is the senior
warfighting echelon of the USAF; when participating in a joint operation, the tasked NAF(s) will
present USAF forces to the JFC within the framework of an ASETF.
8.1.2.2 Aerospace Expeditionary Force (AEF). An AEF is an organizational structure

composed of force packages of capabilities to provide warfighting CINCs with rapid, responsive
aerospace power. The force packages (including their support and C2 elements) are tailored to
meet specific needs across the spectrum of response options and deploy within an ASETF as
aerospace expeditionary wings (AEWs), groups (AEGs), or squadrons (AESs).
• An AEF, by itself, is not a deployable or employable entity. An AEF is composed of a lead

wing and several other sister wings and squadrons assigned to a regularly scheduled, 15-
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month rotation (Figure 8-2), tailored to meet theater-specific needs across the spectrum of
military operations. Rotation includes 10 USAF units programmed out 3-5 years, to deploy
to support operations such as Operations Northern and Southern Watch, plus two units on
alert status for 90-day periods, prepared to deploy as directed in response to new crises.
Operational
Figure 8-2. Air Force Air Expeditionary Force (AEF) Timeline
• Once deployed, an AEF is composed of one or more Air Expeditionary Wings (and/or
Groups), with the AEW (or AEG) commander(s) reporting to the COMAFFOR. An AEW
contains an Expeditionary Operations Group (EOG), in which the airfield AF weather unit
(the Combat Weather Team, CWT) is embedded within the Expeditionary Operations
Support Squadron (Figure 8-3).
8.1.2.2 Expeditionary Weather Forces.
8.1.2.2.1 The expeditionary weather force structure is based on the three levels of warfare--
strategic, operational, and tactical--and is supported by specific organizations.
• Strategic level. Strategic weather centers (e.g., Air Force Weather Agency (AFWA) and AF
Combat Climatology Center (AFCCC)) produce climatological, space weather, and strategic
level forecast products (including numerical weather prediction) emphasizing the
global/hemispheric and longer temporal domains.
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COMAFFOR
ASETF/CC
Special Staff AOC Operational Level
AEW AEW AEW
Wing Ops
Staff
Center
Expeditionary Expeditionary
Operations Group Logistics Group Tactical level
Expeditionary
Expeditionary
Support Group
Operations Support
Squadron
(incl the CWT) Expeditionary
Medical Group
Figure 8-3. Notional Command Structure for an Aerospace Expeditionary Task Force
• Operational/theater level. The OWS is the main provider of data, products, and services for
the theater. Typically aligned with a NAF Air Operations Center, the OWS continuously
monitors, evaluates, and assesses current conditions and predicts future weather events,
tailoring strategic level products from the strategic centers. Part of the OWS may deploy
with the AFFOR, AOC, and/or JFACC, as required, to influence and support weaponeering,
targeting cells, campaign planning, and combat operations. The OWS issues terminal
aerodrome forecasts (TAFs) and resource protection products (watches/warnings) previously
issued by CWTs
• Tactical level. The Combat Weather Team (CWT), collocated with the Air Force's basic
warfighting unit--the squadron--concentrates on specialized weather support to the mission
execution functions. Meteorologists and technicians at the CWT are experts on AEF weapon
systems and tactics; they develop specific AEF mission execution weather information based
on fine scale, operational level weather information provided by the OWS.
8.1.2.2.2 Categories of AEF weather forces. AEF weather forces are built around three basic
categories: lead weather element, weapon system experts, and expeditionary airfield support.
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These three elements join at the fixed and/or "warm" base to form and AEF Weather Flight
within the AEF structure. This AEF weather flight is part of the deployed expeditionary
operational support squadron (OSS).
• Lead weather element. The senior weather officer, who normally supports the lead-flying
unit, deploys to support the AEF Senior Leadership Command Echelon (AEF Commander
and staff). The lead weather force will usually include the expeditionary airfield support if
the AEF command element deploys to a "warm" or bare base.
• Weapon system specialists. These personnel, subject matter experts on weather effects on
weapon systems and mission capabilities, are organized, trained, equipped, and structured to
support air superiority (OCA/DCA), precision attack with guided munitions (PGMs),
suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD), close air support/counter armor (CAS/CA), and
global attack (GA) missions.
• Expeditionary airfield support. Comprised primarily of NCOs, these forecasters' duties

involve direct support to airfield operations, including taking observations, coordinating with
the OWS for TAF and resource protection support, and coordinating with host nation weather
services, as required. The deployed template for AFFOR airfield support consists of one
officer and two NCOs for 24-hour leadership, three NCOs for 24/7 airfield observing and
CWT operations, and one additional NCO per assigned flying squadron. If a flying squadron
requires electro-optical (EO) and/or Night Vision Goggle (NVG) support, an additional NCO
is added (e.g., two NCOs per F-15E squadron rather than one).
8.1.2.2.3 AEF weather unit locations. An AEF may deploy to multiple beddown sites, but
always remains under the control of the overall AEF commander.
• AEF forces deploy to either Main Operating Bases (MOBs; e.g., Incirlik AB) or Collocated
Operating Bases (COBs). MOBs usually have existing weather functions in-place, reducing
deploying CWT requirements. COBs usually have no indigenous forecasting or observing
equipment available.
• Operating locations should have KQ identifiers, acquired by the JMO from the appropriate
USAF or Navy agency and included in the governing Letter of Instruction (LOI)
• Dispersed operating locations means coordination is required to ensure consistency between

forecasts (CWTs, JFACC/SWO, the Joint Operations Area Forecast (JOAF), and JMFU or
OWS products, as applicable)
• Host nation support. Deploying AFFOR wings generally do not use host nation METOC
personnel because of their lack of expertise in supporting US military operations. Also, the
sensitivity of many tactical missions precludes using non-US government METOC
personnel. METOC planners should not assume host nation assets will be used, even if
available, until their mission support capabilities are confirmed. In many cases, the host
nation will provide airfield observations for their airfields, which serves as the official
airfield observation.
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8.1.3 Global Power Missions.
Global Power missions are those flown by bombers and tankers from CONUS to a target
overseas, returning to home base or a staging location. Coordination between involved agencies-
-the local weather unit, the theater JMFU or tasked OWS, and the ACC WSU--is a must, to
ensure required forecasts (mission planning, mission control, mission execution) are consistent.
The lead weather unit is the ACC WSU. (For more on coordinating other types of forecasts, see
paragraph 8.1.5.2.)
8.1.4 AFFOR Structure and Support for Strategic Airlift
USTRANSCOM
HQ AMC
TACC Mission C2 AME
TTF TALCE TALCE
Figure 8-4. AFFOR Strategic Airlift Command Structure
• Air Mobility Command (HQ AMC/DOWX, DSN 576-5082) plans and coordinates weather
support for AMC operations, establishes policies and procedures on weather readiness issues,
and provides weather support to all strategic airlift operations via the following weather
organizations and teams:
• Tanker Airlift Control Global Mobility Weather Flight (TACC/WXM, DSN: 576-4794/96,
COM: 1-800-AIR-MOBL) provides weather support to AMC strategic airlift operations from
Scott AFB, IL. Provides centralized strategic air refueling forecasts for over-water refueling
routes. The TACC's unclassified website is available at
http://tacc.scott.af.mil/directorates/xow/wxhome.asp.
• Air Mobility Element (AME) provides the strategic air mobility C2 element. Monitors and
coordinates USTRANSCOM-assigned strategic air mobility operations supporting a theater
or AOR. In-theater focal point for strategic airlift. Works closely with the Airlift
Coordination Cell to interface strategic airlift with theater airlift. Monitors and coordinates
AMC deployed forces (TTF, TALCE) that support a theater commander.
• Tanker Airlift Control Element (TALCE) is a deployed AMC organization established at

fixed, en route, and deployed locations that remains under AMC operational control
(OPCON). The TALCE provides support to missions transiting locations where command
and control, mission reporting, or required support functions are nonexistent. A typical
TALCE is composed of an operational center and functional area mission support elements
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such as weather, aerial port, intelligence and logistics. When existing weather support is
available at a deployed location, additional weather personnel may not be included with the
TALCE. When included in the TALCE, combat weather teams (CWT) provide “first-in”
weather support providing forecasting, observing and flight weather briefing services. Once
a sustaining force is established, weather support responsibilities will shift from the TALCE
to the sustaining force. The number of personnel assigned to the TALCE CWT is a function
of: (1) the capabilities of the existing weather support infrastructure at the deployed location,
(2) rate of strategic airflow and (3) duration of the mission. A typical TALCE CWT may
have one officer and three dual-qualified forecasters, and may be tailored as required.
• A Tanker Task Force (TTF) will consist of two or more KC-10 or KC-135 aircraft to provide
air refueling support to fighter deployments, air mobility operations, intercontinental bomber
operations, theater employment missions, or training and exercise requirements. The TTF
CWT provides forecasting and observing services along with staff weather support while
remaining under AMC operational control (OPCON) when deployed outside the CINC's
AOR. The number of personnel assigned to the TTF CWT is a function of: (1) existing
weather support at the deployed location, (2) aircraft sortie rates, and (3) duration of the
mission. A typical TTF CWT may consist of one officer and three dual-qualified forecasters,
and may be tailored as required. The TTF normally changes operational control (OPCON) to
the theater when deployed within the CINC's AOR.
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8.1.5 Air Force Weather Employment Concepts
8.1.5.1 Forecast process
• Air Force Weather’s core competencies--collect, analyze, predict, tailor, and

disseminate—provide the foundation for AFW’s “forecast funnel” process
Weather Intelligence
NCA at key points in the
operational decision
cycle
UNIFIED
DELIBERATE COMMAND
PLANNING PROCESS
CLIMATOLOGY, SPACE WX,
AND STRATEGIC-LEVEL
FCST PRODUCTS (incl NWP) COMPONENT
ATO PROCESS OPERATIONS
OPERATIONAL FORECAST PRODUCTS

- TAFs SQUADRON/
- WA/WW SORTIE BRIGADE
GENERATION
MISSION
EXECUTION
FORECASTS
(eg, MISSION WX
BRIEFING)
BOMB on TARGET
Figure 8-5. The Air Force Weather "funnel" forecast process
• Air Force Weather has aligned organizations to "funnel" the forecast process
- Strategic centers (Air Force Weather Agency, AF Combat Climatology Center) provide
strategic-level space and terrestrial weather support
> Products focused on global/hemispheric or long periods of time
> NWP model output, climatology, METSAT, mission forecasts, space environment
data, and mission forecasts
- Operational Weather Squadrons provide operational or theater-level terrestrial and space

weather support
> Fine-scale weather forecast products within their Area of Responsibility
◊ Products geared to the synoptic and mesoscale
> Produce Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts, weather warnings, regional visualizations
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- Weather Flights (Combat Weather Teams) at base level provide tactical-level terrestrial
and space weather support. CWTs are experts on how weather and the space
environment impact missions and weapon systems
> Provide direct support to the customer's mission
> Collocated with warfighters, operators, and trainers
> Provide mission execution forecasts (e.g., flight weather briefings)
8.1.5.2 Coordinated weather support. Air Force Weather offers guidance to coordinate weather
support to missions involving more than one unit. Generally, the lead weather unit will be the
one supporting the mission's command and control element (i.e., the unit closest to the
commander's go/no go decision). The lead weather unit is responsible for coordinating with all
weather units supporting the operation to ensure a common and consistent forecast is used
(reference AFI 15-126 and AFMAN 15-135).
Table 8-1. Determining Lead Air Force Weather Units for Multi-Unit Missions
Rule/Type of Mission Designated Lead Weather Unit

1 / Joint missions Joint METOC Officer defines wx support in an Annex H,
Letter of Instruction (LOI), or message1
2 / Global Power Wx unit supporting the ACC C2 element
3 / Coronet Wx unit supporting the ACC C2 element
4 / Global Reach Wx unit supporting the TACC C2 element
5 / Air refueling Wx unit supporting the lead receiving aircraft unit
6 / JA/ATTs & DZ Wx unit supporting the lead airlift aircraft unit
7 / LZ and land maneuver Wx unit supporting the lead Army unit
8 / Deployed or transient Wx unit assigned to support the unit at home station
Special Operations Lead wx unit depends on nature of the operation2
Notes:
1. If the lead wx unit or a coordination process is not defined, use the guidance in Rules
2-9 to determine the lead weather unit.
2. Rules for missions with Special Operations Forces (SOF):
a. When SOF operates with conventional forces under a CINC's control, the lead
weather unit is determined using rules 1-8. SOF should use the Mission Control Forecast
(MCF) and appropriate OWS products.
b. SOF operating solely within SOCOM chain of command, will use their
standard theater support.
8.2 Air Force METOC Equipment and Key Software

8.2.1 Hardware.
A deployed, fixed-site airfield requires systems that provide the capability to take 24-hour
airfield observations, access a full suite of centrally produced weather forecast products, and
generates mission execution forecasts. Equipment requirements are determined by the Air Force
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component theater weather planner and tasked to appropriate MAJCOMs. Descriptions and
additional hardware are also detailed in Joint Publication 3-59.
• Tactical meteorological (TACMET) systems for airfield observations include:

- AN/GMQ-33, Cloud Height Set. Self-contained, portable unit that determines and
displays the base height of cloud layers directly overhead by the use of a laser
- AN/TMQ-34, Meteorological Measuring Set. Portable, hand-held multi-sensor system
that measures and displays standard elements of surface weather observations
- AN/TMQ-36, Tactical Wind Measurement System. Self-contained, portable unit that
provides measurement of wind speed and direction
- Manual Observing System (MOS Kit). Collection of individual, hand held instruments
for measuring standard elements of surface weather observations
- AN/UMQ-12, MARWIN Tactical Upper Air Measuring Set. Automatic tracking,
ruggedized portable unit that provides upper air wind direction and speed, temperature,
and relative humidity to an altitude of 30 km.
• Forecast support hardware includes:

- New Tactical Forecast System (N-TFS). Upgraded computers and software in man-
portable containers that will be the primary deployable METOC data handling system
- Weather facsimile and teletype systems. Commercial, off-the-shelf facsimile
receiver/recorders to display teletype observations, weather map products, and imagery
from weather satellites and worldwide HF broadcasts. Fielded systems include Alden
9315TRT, TRTR, and TRT-S
- METSAT receivers. Various systems to ingest direct broadcast METOC imagery and
derived data from DMSP, GOES, NOAA, METEOSAT, GMS, and other satellite
systems. Fielded systems include the WRAASE receiver and the Small Tactical
Terminal (STT)
- AN/TMQ-43 Small Tactical Terminal (STT). The STT comes in three configurations:
basic STT, enhanced STT, and JTFST (Joint Task Force Satellite Terminal). The STT is
a small, deployable, computer-based satellite imagery reception and analysis system,
which can receive data from DMSP as well as civil polar orbiting and geostationary
weather satellites
- Electronic SWO Kit (ESK). A laptop computer loaded with software (e.g., Joint
METOC Viewer) to access METOC dial-in databases and SIPRNET/NIPRNET
(SAFWIN/AFWIN)
- Tactical Wx Radar (TWR). Deployable Doppler and non-Doppler weather radars for use
at fixed sites. Examples include ITWR--Kavouras Doppler; TWR--Raytheon Doppler;
and, Ellison, a highly-transportable non-Doppler radar
- Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) and Tactical VSAT (T-VSAT). Provides in-
garrison or deployed users the ability to receive critical weather information in a timely
manner. AFWA produces or provides a wide range of weather products and sends them
to a teleport facility for upload to the VSAT system. (Products are from multiple sources,
including AFWA, the Navy and other US government sources (civil and military),
commercial vendors, and allied weather agencies, and are available for subscription or
one-time request.)
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8.2.2 Software.
Deploying units also require software for remote data access and specialized customer support.
• JAAWIN (Joint Army and Air Force Weather Information Network), JAAWIN-S (Secure
JAAWIN). Provides access to METOC products at AFWA (Offutt AFB) via
NIPRNET/SIPRNET
• JMV (Joint METOC Viewer). Runs as a helper application for your web browser
(NIPRNET or SIPRNET). Displays, in graphical format, the output of FNMOC's numerical
meteorological and oceanographic models, as well as real-time, worldwide observations.
JMV allows the user to create weather charts, overlay images, looping fields, and briefing
images. Available from FNMOC (NIPRNET or SIPRNET sites)
• Electro-optical tactical decision aid software. Target Acquisition Weather Software (TAWS)
and Night Vision Goggle Operations Weather Software (NOWS) help develop weather
impacts to missions employing IR-, TV-, and laser-guided weapons
- TAWS is an EO weather decision aid that provides the operator several types of
performance predictions for mission planning. TAWS computes lock-on and detection
ranges based on pilot, targeteer, and weather forecaster inputs. Pilots enter the time and
mission profile data, targeteers input target information (e.g., composition, backgrounds,
and dimensions), and the forecaster enters the atmospheric data
- NOWS is an NVG weather decision aid that provides the operator several types of
performance predictions for mission planning. NOWS computes illumination levels and
detection ranges based on natural (moon and stars) and man-made illumination sources,
as well as weather effects
• Internet software (Netscape Communicator, Microsoft Internet Explorer) to access other
METOC data sources (NOAA, universities, commercial activities, etc.)
• Solar/lunar calculation support programs or websites
8.3 Air Force METOC Communications and Computers

Air Force METOC communication and computer systems are in accordance with C4I plans and
instructions.
• Tactical AFFOR Communications. Information passed over tactical AFFOR

communications systems feeds fixed base weather stations and various C4I systems that
contain METOC data (TBMCS, AFMSS, GCCS). Data transfer can be accomplished
through:
- Hardwire data lines (dedicated or commercial)
- SATCOM (T-VSAT, GBS, reach-back, INMARSAT)
- High Frequency broadcasts (HFRB, QRCT III)
- SIPRNET/NIPRNET access
• Strategic AFFOR Communications

- Since an AME is normally collocated with the AOC, communication capabilities are
comparable to the AOCs
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- As a first in force, TALCE weather personnel deploy with very limited communication
capabilities
> Data/voice SATCOM is normally the primary and sometimes the only means of
communication
> When available, INMARSAT is used as a backup
> May deploy with HF (QRCT) capabilities when an HF net is established
> Dedicated hard lines (DSN or Commercial) are rarely available
- A TTF will normally have dedicated circuits along with data/voice SATCOM capabilities
8.4 Air Force METOC Data
8.4.1 Air Force METOC Data Sources
• There are several sources of METOC data within the Air Force tactical structure:
- Fixed-site airfield observations
- Mobile/remote weather teams
- Aircrew debriefings and pilot reports
- Radar (primarily tactical)
- Satellite (METSAT)
- Upper air observations (MARWIN)
• Deployed CWTs may or may not be tasked to take/disseminate surface and/or airfield
observations. In some cases, the host nation takes the official airfield observation, and the
host nation must make these observations available for dissemination via the Automated
Weather Network (AWN). CWTs pass information to the responsible OWS and may
disseminate select information into the AWN, or post appropriate information on
NIPRNET/SIPRNET homepages.
• METOC personnel can obtain pilot reports of weather conditions through aircrew
debriefings. This information is used to verify mission forecasts and refine forecast products.
• The unclassified AWN is the main communication path for all Air Force collected METOC
observations and forecasts. Also, an increasing amount of Air Force METOC data is being
disseminated through NIPRNET/SIPRNET dial-in / homepage services.
• Special Weather Intelligence (SWI) Data. SWI is weather reports for locations that are not
available in global broadcasts or through mutual exchange agreements. These data can be
current observations, forecasts, PIREPS, SIGMETS, and other formatted METOC
information. SWI is currently provided via various national and theater intelligence data
systems. These data are and can be of particular value to operations centers for mission
planning, en-route updates, and near real-time awareness of target area/mission weather
during execution. Further information on types of data and available of connectivity to
sources may be obtained by contacting a combatant command’s Senior METOC Officer.
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8.4.2 Air Force METOC Data Products
8.4.2.1 Air Force METOC Strategic Support
HQ USAF/XOW
Director of Weather
AF Weather Agency
Offutt AFB NE
AFCCC AFCWC 55 SWXS

AF Combat AF Combat Space Forecast
Climatology Center Weather Center Center
Asheville NC Hurlburt Field FL Schriever AFB CO
Figure 8-6. Air Force Weather Organization.
8.4.2.1.1 Air Force Weather Agency (AFWA)
• Organization. The Air Force Weather Agency is a Field Operating Agency (FOA) under the
HQ USAF Director of Weather (HQ USAF/XOW), located at Offutt AFB, NE. AFWA
resulted from the merger of Air Force Global Weather Central and Air Weather Service.
• Mission. Provide mission-tailored, worldwide decision assistance for warfighters, the

National Command Authorities, and Air Force Precedence 1-1 programs controlled by the
Secretary of the Air Force. Tailor products to meet a customer’s critical weather thresholds
and format (alphanumeric, vector graphic, TIFs/GIFs, raster scan, etc) according to
customer’s requirements. Provide aviation/maneuver parameters and applications to
worldwide DOD agencies. DOD center of excellence for satellite meteorology and space
weather forecasting.
• Products and Services. Most routine AFWA products are listed and described in the
JAAWIN or JAAWIN-S catalog of products. If what you want is not listed in the catalog or
available from other agencies linked from JAAWIN-S, call the Operations Control Center
Team Chief (OCCTC) at DSN 271-2586. AFWA may have added the product since the last
update of the list, or may be able to provide the product via a Support Assistance Request
(SAR). AFI 15-118, Requesting Specialized Weather Support, provides SAR procedures.
The following is a general listing of the types of products available from AFWA.
- Visualized products (GIF type images):

> Up to 10-day theater outlook, based on customer thresholds for ceiling, visibility, and
significant weather
> Wind-chill and heat index forecasts
> Standard level (surface to 200mb) forecasts
> Icing and turbulence forecasts
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> Precipitation forecasts (amount, type)

> Severe thunderstorm indices (e.g., CAPE, Total Totals, etc.)
> Low level wind shear forecasts
> Surface temperature forecasts
> Surface temperature change forecasts
> Forecast Skew-Ts (for select locations)
> Forecast relative humidity and wind cross sections (for select locations)
> Surface wind vector/magnitude (for select theaters)
> Contrail forecasts (for low, non, and high by-pass engine types)
> Medium range forecast products (1000-500 mb thickness and 500mb
heights/isotachs)
> Jet stream forecasts
> Absolute humidity
- Satellite Products: visual, infrared, and some multi-spectral from GOES, DMSP, NOAA,
GMS, and METEOSAT platforms. Availability varies with the theater in question.
Products include 1.5 and 3 nautical mile resolution, with city overlays, geography, and
SSMI/MSI derived areas of fog, thunderstorms, and surface wind speeds.
- Charts and/or alphanumeric bulletins:

> Point analyses
> Surface analyses/forecasts
> Surface pressure centers, fronts, and sensible weather analyses/ forecasts
> Upper air analyses/forecasts
> Satellite imagery/DMSP special sensor information
> Nephanalyses/cloud forecasts (bases/tops, total cloud amounts, and cloud layers)
> Ceiling, visibility, and precipitation forecasts
> AGROMET (precip/evapotranspiration/soil moisture) analysis estimates
> Snow and ice analyses
> Terminal aerodrome forecasts
> Meteograms (worldwide, based on the MM5 and MRF models)
> Synoptic discussion bulletins
> Effective downwind/trajectory messages
> Tropical storm positions/intensities
> Drop zone forecasts*
> Air refueling route forecasts*
> Low-level route forecasts
> Reconnaissance mission forecasts*
> Joint Operational Area Forecasts/Mission Planning Forecasts*
> En route hazards (i.e. turbulence, icing, and/or thunderstorms) information/forecasts
> Severe/advisory weather information
> Contrail forecasts (for low, non, and hi by-pass engine types)
> Anomalous propagation bulletins
> National Weather Service analyses/forecast products
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> National Weather Service model output

> National Weather Service radar summaries
* Available via SAR
• Space Weather Products
- AFWA provide analyses, forecasts, and warnings of space weather phenomena that may
impact DoD or enemy operations. These products are disseminated to customers
worldwide. The products identify the state of the space weather environment and focus
on phenomena that may affect communications, satellite operations, space tracking,
navigation, and intelligence collection
- Space weather products in support of communications include analyses and forecasts of

ionospheric conditions that affect high frequency (HF) communications and ultra high
frequency (UHF) satellite communications (SATCOM). Product contents include, but
are not limited to, predictions of usable frequencies for point-to-point HF
communications and predictions of space weather-caused disruptions to UHF SATCOM
- Space weather products in support of satellite operations include analyses and forecasts
of ionospheric and magnetospheric conditions that may affect the ability of a satellite to
perform as expected. Product contents include analyses and predictions of energetic
electrically charged particles influences and fluxes (the number of charged particles
bombarding a satellite). In those cases that anomalous behavior within a satellite is
reported by satellite controllers, space weather products also include assessments of
whether or not the space weather environment was disturbed enough to cause the
anomalous behavior
- Space weather products in support of space tracking include analyses and forecasts of
ionospheric conditions that may affect the ability of ground-based space tracking radars
to perform as expected. Product contents include, but are not limited to, correction
factors required to account for the ionospheric-induced errors in tracking radars
- Space weather products in support of navigation include analyses of ionospheric

conditions that may reduce the positional accuracy of single-frequency Global
Positioning System (GPS) applications. Product contents include geographic maps that
depict locations where single-frequency GPS accuracy is most likely to be affected by
large ionospheric-induced positional errors
- Space weather products in support of intelligence collection include a variety of classified

products to assist customers in identifying when, how, and how much space weather is
affecting both friendly and adversary operations
- Classified/unclassified
- Dedicated/common user circuits
- SIPRNET/NIPRNET access
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- FTP to servers/BBSs
• Request Procedures. Send requests for "normal" operational support to:
Normal (CONUS) duty hours:

AFWA/XOOR DSN (312) 271-1631/3/4
106 Peacekeeper Drive, Ste 2N3 comm (402) 294-1631/3/4
Offutt AFB NE 68113-4039 unclass fax: DSN (312) 271-1637
Email: [email protected]; can also use "first name.last [email protected]" if an
individual's first and last names are known
Secure email: [email protected]
For urgent, short notice requests, call the OCCTC:

AFWA 24-hour Point of Contact:
Ops Control Center Team Chief: DSN (312) 271-2586 / comm (402) 294-2586
Secure voice: DSN (312) 271-6558 / comm (402) 294-6558
Unclass fax: DSN (312) 271-5872 / comm (402) 294-5872
Secure fax: DSN (312) 272-5426 / comm (402) 232-5426
Email: [email protected]
Contingency requests for the AFWA Special Support Operations Branch (SSOB):
SSOB Branch Chief: DSN (312) 271-3072 / comm (402) 294-3072
Unclass voice: DSN (312) 272-8139/271-6558 / comm (402) 232-8139/294-6558
Secure voice: DSN (312) 272-8139/271-6558 / comm (402) 232-8139/294-6558
Unclass fax: DSN (312) 271-6557 / comm (402) 294-6557
Secure fax: DSN (312) 272-5426 / comm (402) 232-5426
Secure email: [email protected]
Each Unified Command may have additional guidance and procedures for requesting joint
METOC products and services in its AOR (e.g., in Annex H of the CINC's OPLANs or
OPORDs). It is important that Joint METOC Officers (JMOs) and deploying METOC
personnel understand these Unified Command specific requirements by contacting the
CINC SMO.
Web access
SIPRNET homepage: http://safwin.offutt.af.smil.mil
NIPRNET homepages:
AFWIN: http://www.afwin.afwa.af.mil (password required)
AFWA (FOA information): http://wwwmil.offutt.af.mil/afwa/
8.4.2.1.2 Air Force Combat Climatology Center (AFCCC)
• Organization. AFCCC, formerly known as the USAF Environmental Technical Applications

Center (USAFETAC), is assigned to AFWA, a field-operating agency (FOA) under the Air
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Force Directorate of Weather (HQ USAF/XOW). AFCCC is collocated with NOAA’s

National Climatic Data Center in the Federal Climate Complex in Asheville, NC.
• Mission. AFCCC develops and produces climatological and operational weather impact
information by using international climatic databases to prepare environmental analyses to
support:
- Planning and execution of worldwide military operations of the Air Force, Army, Navy,
Marine Corps, unified commands, and allied nations
- Weather-sensitive, SECAF-controlled National Programs
- Engineering design, testing, and employment of weapon systems
• Products and Services. See AFCCC/TN-95/005, Ch.2 for more details.

- Aerial spray analyses - Atmospheric profiles
- Bibliographies - Atmospheric stability summaries
- Climatic summaries - Modeled ceiling/visibility
- Climatic briefs - Temperature/dew point summaries
- Crosswind summaries - Heating/cooling deg day summaries
- Precipitation summaries - Modeled diurnal curves
- Cloud data summaries - Electro-optical climatologies
- Tailored exercise support - Heating and cooling data
- Illumination data. - Lightning climatology
- Low-level route climatology - Mission success indicators
- Post-event analyses - Pavement temperature summaries
- Pressure reduction ratios - Rainrate analyses
- Simulation support - Range reference atmospheres
- Refractive index analyses - Raytrace diagnostic models
- Vector wind models - Upper air climatologies
- Graphical visualizations - Temperature duration summaries
- Wind duration analyses - Journal accession lists
- Technical publications - Operational climatic data summaries
- Wet-bulb globe temperature climatologies
- Surface observation climatic summaries
- Wind-stratified conditional climatologies
- Daily temperature/precipitation summaries
- Cloud-free/visible clear line-of-sight (CFLOS/VCLOS) probabilities
- Point/small area; large/intermediate area; & regional descriptive climatologies
- Engineering design and construction data
- Environmental simulation (includes ceiling/visibility observations & forecasts and
CFLOS)
- Space Environmental Support System (SESS) climatology
- Uniform Gridded Data Field (UGDF) historical data grids
- Online climatology data and gridded climatology services (see Advanced Climate
Modeling and Environmental Simulations (ACMES) on the unclassified and classified
AFCCC homepages
> NIPRNET address: http://www.afccc.af.mil (password required)
> AFW Technical Library: http://www.afccc.af.mil/afwtl/afwtl.html
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> SIPRNET address: http://afccc.asheville.af.smil.mil/index.html

> JWICS address: http://afccc.ic.gov
- Unified Commands, Air Force, Army, and other government agencies:
Send requests directly to: Phone: DSN 673-9004
AFCCC/DOO STU III: DSN 673-9003
151 Patton Ave, Room 120 Commercial: (828) 271-4291
Asheville, NC 28801-5002 24-hr beeper: DSN 673-9022
Unclass fax: DSN 673-9024 Secure fax: DSN 673-9020
www: use the Support Assistance Request (SAR) form available at AFCCC’s NIPRNET
and SIPRNET homepages
- Navy and Marine Corps:
> Routine requests to the nearest Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Center (IAW
NAVOCEANCOMINST 3140.1 series).
> Urgent requests to:
Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography Center
Detachment (FNMOD)
Note: Send info copy to AFCCC/DO,
151 Patton Avenue Room 120, Asheville, NC 28801-5002
Phone: (704) 271-4232 STU-III: (704) 271-4852
Fax: (704) 271-4672
• Requests for Tech Library (AFWTL) support:

Phone: DSN 673-9019
Commercial: (828) 271-4277
Email: [email protected] or online (address above)
8.4.2.2 Air Force METOC Theater (Operational) Products. Each Operational Weather
Squadron (OWS) supports its theater by providing regional and theater weather guidance for the
planning and execution of Air Force and Army operations in their supported CINC's AOR. The
OWS Combat Operations Flight (which can deploy forward, if required) provides decision
assistance to USAF and Army C2 activities at the operational level. Each OWS also manages
the weather observing collection strategy for its region. To contact the theater hubs, see the
organizational listing below (paragraph 8.5.2). Combat Weather Teams (CWTs) use OWS
guidance and products to develop mission-specific planning and execution forecasts, maintaining
a constant meteorological watch (metwatch) for briefed missions.
• Operational Weather Squadrons provide 24/7, operational-level aerospace weather support

to operational units assigned within and/or deployed into its AOR. Products include
Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts (TAFs), visualization forecast products for the theater that
support CWT mission execution forecasts (e.g., air refueling, drop zone, low-level routes),
tactical decision aid forecasts, and weather watches and warnings for resource protection
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The Combat Operations Flight is the primary forecast center for day-to-day operations in the
AOR--as such, they produce theater guidance, discussions, analysis, TAFs, and resource
protection products, and are poised to provide additional forecast support during transition to
deployed operations. Each OWS can provide these additional products:
Regional/theater forecast discussion bulletin

- Horizontal weather depiction
- Surface weather analysis
- Military Weather Advisory (MWA)
- Flight Hazards Advisory
- Flight weather briefing
- Pilot-to-Metro Service (PMSV) radio
- Metwatch
90 o N 90 o N
60o W
11 OWS
60o E
Elmendorf AFB 10 o W
USAFE OW S
30o W
15 OW S Sembach AB
Scott AFB AFWA
46 o N AOR
46 o N 20 OWS
AFWA 28 OWS, Shaw AFB
607 W S Yokota AB
159o E
Offutt AFB
26 OW S Yongsa
Barksdale AFB 28 o N n 123 o E 22 o N
D-M AFB 28 OW S
140o W
68o E
AOR
17 OWS
Hickam AFB
5o S
92o W
30o W
42o E
66.5 o S 66.5 o S
90 o S 90 o S
11 OWS 15 OWS 25 OW S 26 OW S 28 OWS
Location of Operational
W eathers
USAFE OW S 607 WS 17 OW S 20 OW S AFWA
Figure 8-7. Air Force Operational Weather Squadron Areas of Responsibility
8.4.2.3 Air Force Mission Execution (Tactical) Products. Combat Weather Teams supported by
their respective OWS use OWS guidance and products, plus their access to highly perishable,
real-time weather observational data, to develop mission-specific planning and execution
forecasts, and to maintain a constant metwatch for those missions. The CWT's primary role is to
develop accurate weather products to enhance mission planning and execution; secondarily, they
may provide surface and upper air observations (as required) at their location to implement the
collection strategy coordinated with the OWS. The CWT is capable of providing the following
products:
• Mission planning forecast
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• Mission execution forecast (launch, enroute, target, and recovery)

• Surface observations (as required)
• Upper air observations (as tasked)
• Supervisor of Flying (SOF) support
• Flight/staff weather briefings
• Metwatch
• PMSV. The CWT provides PMSV for all local missions; the OWS provides PMSV service
to transient aircrews. The CWT may supplement this support if the OWS PMSV cannot be
accessed
8.5 Key Air Force METOC Organizations

The Air Force Observer magazine publishes an annual Almanac that provides phone and fax
numbers and email addresses for most Air Force weather organizations. Contact AFWA Public
Affairs (DSN 272-8166 / comm (402) 232-8166, [email protected], or look on the
AFWA/PA homepage, http://wwwmil.offutt.af.mil/afwa/) for a copy of the latest issue.
8.5.1 USAF Strategic Weather Centers
• Air Force Weather Agency (AFWA)—Offutt AFB NE

DSN (312) 271-2586 / comm (312) 294-2586; secure (312) 272-6558
JAAF Weather Information Network:
NIPRNET: http://www.weather.af.mil/ (password required)
SIPRNET: http://safwin.offutt.af.smil.mil
• AF Combat Climatology Center (AFCCC)—Asheville NC

NIPRNET: http://www.afccc.af.mil (password required)
SIPRNET: http://afccc.asheville.af.smil.mil/index.html
DSN 673-9004 / comm (828) 271-4291; secure 673-9003
• Space Weather Information (AFWA)

NIPRNET: http://www.weather.af.mil/ (password required; click a region, then "Space
Weather")
SIPRNET: http://www.55swxs.spacecom.smil.mil/index.htm
DSN 560-6312 / comm (719) 567-6312
• Tanker Airlift Control Center (TACC)--Scott AFB IL

NIPRNET: http://tacc.scott.af.mil/directorates/xow/wxhome.asp
DSN 576-4794/96 / comm 1-800-AIR-MOBL
8.5.2 USAF Operational Weather Squadrons and Regional Support
• ACC Weather Support Unit—Langley AFB VA

NIPRNET: http://www.acc.af.mil/weather
DSN 574-2007/2008 / comm (757) 764-2007/2008
Email [email protected]; [email protected]
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SIPRNET: http://wwwacc2.langley.af.smil.mil/xo/ (link to Weather PPT presentation)
• Korean Operational Weather Squadron (607 WS)—Yongsan KO

NIPRNET: http://607ws.yongsan.af.mil
DSN 315-725-6155/6158 / comm 011-822-7915-6155/6156; secure 315-725-3517/6509
Email [email protected]
• 11th Operational Weather Squadron—Elmendorf AFB AK

NIPRNET: http://weather.elmendorf.af.mil
DSN 317-552-2719 / comm 907-552-2719; secure 317-552-1022
Email [email protected] (webmaster)
• USAFE Operational Weather Squadron (European hub)—Sembach AB GE

NIPRNET: http://131.54.133.238/index.html or http://ows.sembach.af.mil
SIPRNET: http://204.21.12.42
DSN 314-496-6114/6116 / comm 011-49-06302-67-6116; secure 314-496-6151/6190
• 25th Operational Weather Squadron (SOUTHCOM hub)—DM AFB AZ

NIPRNET: http://25ows.dm.af.mil (password required);
DSN 228-2027/2149 / comm (312) 228-2027/2149
Email [email protected]
• 28th Operational Weather Squadron (CENTCOM hub)—Shaw AFB SC

NIPRNET: http://131.46.188.21 or http://28ows.shaw.af.mil;
DSN 965-0588 / comm (803) 895-0588; secure 965-0565
• 26th Operational Weather Squadron (USJFCOM hub)—Barksdale AFB LA

NIPRNET: http://26ows.barksdale.af.mil
SIPRNET:
http://130.90.26.151/index.cfm?fuseaction=main&UNIT_ID=&bandwidth=H&aor=1&sc=14
4404
DSN 781-0209/4004 / comm (318) 456-0209/4004
• 15th Operational Weather Squadron (TRANSCOM hub)—Scott AFB IL

NIPRNET: http://15ows.scott.af.mil;
TACC is at http://tacc.scott.af.mil/directorates/xow/wxhome.asp
DSN 576-4794 / comm (618) 256-4794
• 20th Operational Weather Squadron (20 OWS)--Yokota AB JA

Yokota Base Weather DSN (315) 225-9005
NIPRNET: http://www.yokota.af.mil/weather/index.htm
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• 17th Operational Weather Squadron (17 OWS):

Hickam Base Weather DSN (315) 449-6262
NIPRNET: http://www.hickam.af.mil/Weather/index.html
SIPRNET: http://17ows.hickam.af.smil.mil/
8.5.3 Key USAF METOC Staff Organizations
• Air Combat Command (ACC/XOW)—Langley AFB VA

NIPRNET: http://xo.acc.af.mil/xow
DSN 574-8452/8456 / comm (757) 764-8452/8456; secure 574-3603
EMAIL: [email protected]
• US Air Forces Europe (USAFE/DOW)—Ramstein AB GE

NIPRNET: http://www.usafe.af.mil/direct/do/dow-miss.htm
DSN 314-480-7001/7564 / comm (49) 6371-47-7001/7564
• Pacific Air Forces (PACAF/DOW)—Hickam AFB HI

NIPRNET: http://www2.cidss.af.mil/dow/dow_menu/index_dow.html
DSN 449-6174/8481 or 448-1533/2033
• Air Mobility Command (AMC/DOW)—Scott AFB IL

NIPRNET: http://www.amc.af.mil/do/dow/dow.htm
DSN 576-4337 / comm (618) 256-4337
• Air Force Combat Weather Center (AFCWC)—Hurlburt Field FL

NIPRNET: http://www.hurlburt.af.mil/afcwc
DSN 641-5700 / comm (850) 881-5700
• AF Space Command (AFSPC/DORW)—Peterson AFB CO

NIPRNET: http://midway.spacecom.af.mil/weather/index.htm
SIPRNET: http://www.vandenberg.af.smil.mil/recent.html
DSN 692-3143 / comm (719) 554-3143
• AF Special Operations Command (AFSOC/DOOW)—Hurlburt Field FL

DSN 579-5640 / comm (904) 884-5640
• Weather Support Systems Cadre (WSSC) East—Robins AFB GA

NIPRNET: http://wssc.robins.af.mil
DSN 468-5934 / comm (912) 926-5934 / (800) 344-5625
• Weather Support Systems Cadre (WSSC) West—Tinker AFB OK

NIPRNET: http://www-int.tinker.af.mil/wssc3i/wssc.html
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DSN 844-2246/2247 / comm (405) 734-2246/2247
• USAFE Weather Support Systems Cadre (WSSC)--Sembach AB GE

Contact the USAFE WSSC by calling or emailing the USAFE OWS at Sembach
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9-US Army
Chapter 9 - U.S. Army METOC
This chapter describes U.S. Army organizational structure, command relationships, and support
capabilities and requirements, including typical Army METOC and communications equipment.
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY

FORCES COMMAND ARMY PACIFIC ARMY FORCES U.S. FORCES U.S. ARMY FORCES
(FORSCOM) COMMAND CENTRAL COMMAND EUROPE SOUTH COMMAND
Fort McPherson, GA (USARPAC) (USARCENT) (USAREUR) (USARSO)
(SWO) Fort Shafter, HI MACDILL AFB, FL Hiedelberg, GE San Juan, PR
(SWO) (SWO) 7WS (SWO) Fort Buchanon
Third Army (SWO)
Eighth Army V CORPS
Fort McPherson, GA
(U.S. Forces Korea) Heidelberg, GE
(SWO)
Seoul, Korea SWO
III CORPS 607WS SWO
1st ARMORED DIVISION (1 AD)
Fort Hood, TX Wiesbaden, GE (SWO)
3WS (SWO) 2nd INFANTRY DIVISION (2 ID)
Camp Stanley, Korea (SWO) Fort Riley, KS
Fort Lewis, WA (SWO) Hanau, GE
1st CAVALRY DIVISION
(1 CAVDIV) Camp Red Cloud, Korea (SWO)
1st INFANTRY DIVISION (1 ID)
Fort Hood, TX (SWO)
Wurzburg, GE (SWO)
17th AVN Bde Fort Riley, KS
4th INFANTRY DIVISION (4ID) (SWO)
Fort Hood, TX (SWO)
11th Aviation Reg
Fort Carson, CO I CORPS
6th Cav Bde (11 AAR)
Fort Lewis, WA Illesheim GE (SWO)
3rd ARMORED CAV REG (SWO)
1WS (SWO)
(3 ACR)
12th Aviation Bde
Fort Carson, CO (SWO)
25th INFANTRY DIVISION (25 ID) (12 AAB)
Schofield Barracks, HI (SWO) Giebelstadt GE (SWO)
XVIII ABN CORPS
Fort Bragg, NC Southern European Task Force
172nd Infantry Brigade (Separate) (SETAF)
18WS (SWO) Fort Wainwright, AK (SWO) Vincenza, It (SWO)
11th ACR 101st ABN DIVISION (AIR ASSAULT)
10th INFANTRY DIVISION (MOUNTAIN)
Fort Irwin, CA (10 MTN DIV) (101 ASSLT DIV)
(SWO) Fort Drum, NY (SWO) Fort Campbell, KY (SWO)
7th Trans Group 3rd INFANTRY DIVISION (3 ID) 82nd AIRBORNE DIVISION 2d ARMORED CAVALRY REG
Fort Eustis, VA Fort Stewart/Hunter AAF, GA (SWO) (82 ABN DIV) (2 ACR)
(SWO) Fort Benning, GA Fort Bragg, NC (SWO) Fort Polk, LA (SWO)
Figure 9-1. Weather Support to Conventional Army Operational Forces
9.1 Army Forces (ARFOR)
• In accordance with the National Defense Act of 1947, which split the Air Force away from
the Army, the Air Force maintained responsibility to provide weather support to US Army.
• In the past few years, Air Force Weather has reengineered to streamline weather intelligence
production to the Air Force and the Army. Much of the home station support that was once
provided to users by garrison weather teams is now done at regional operational weather
squadrons (OWSs). See figure 8-7 for OWS areas of responsibilities.
• Figure 9-2 shows those Army units that retain direct weather forecasting and observing
support (Combat Weather Teams or CWTs). The garrison and deployed forecasting mission
of the CWT is refined to the general forecast products created by the OWS into tailored
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9-US Army
weather intelligence needed by that particular Army unit. The observing mission is to record
the current state of the atmosphere and convey that intelligence to decision makers.
ARFOR Weather Support

Typical Levels of Weather Support
ARFOR HQ Theater Aviation Bde

(Theater Army) (O-6)
Aviation Bde Corps Corps Aviation Bde

(O-6) (Three-star) (Three Star) (O-6)
ACR Division Division Division ACR

(O-6) (Two-Star) (Two-Star) (Two Star) (O-6)
Aviation Bde Aviation Bde Aviation Bde

(O-6) (O-6) (O-6)
Figure 9-2. ARFOR Organization
• AFJPAM 15-127 details ARFOR organizational structure, command relationships, and basic
weather support responsibilities and capabilities. AR 115-10/AFJI 15-157 identifies specific
service logistics support responsibilities to Army-support weather teams.
• AFI 15-126 details observing and forecasting roles and responsibilities for all Air Force
Weather Strategic Centers, Operational Weather Squadrons, and Combat Weather Teams.
Combat Weather Teams are at the center of operational weather support to Army forces.
• AFMAN 15-135, Combat Weather Team (CWT) Operations, is the CWT’s manual for the
AF weather team and Army weather support.
• Army artillery units have organic ARTYMET teams, which can provide periodic upper air
observations. These units are normally at division-level artillery units or higher but can be
requested through the Army component.
• The T-UAV teams have the requirements to pass on limited observations at their take-off and
landing-site back to the CWT.
• An Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) indicates overall enlisted or officer weather skill level.
Weather officer AFSCs are 15W4 and 15W3. 15W4 is usually an O4-O5 with at least 12
years of experience. 15W3 is O2-O3 with 1 to 11 years experience. 1W071A is usually an
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E6-E8 forecaster with 6 to 20 years of experience but can be at the E-5 level. The “A” suffix
indicates a graduate of forecaster school. 1W051A represents E4-E5 forecasters with 3 to 10
years of experience. Army CWTs will typically be manned with 15W3s, 1W071As, and
1W051As.
9.1.1 Army Employment Concepts
• Task-organized Army units will be allocated weather personnel and equipment

commensurate with the scope and duration of the mission to be accomplished. However,
below are doctrinal support to Army organizations
• Echelon Above Corps (EAC) ARFOR Weather Support: 12 personnel (4 officers, 8

enlisted), broken out as follows:
- Staff Weather Officer (SWO) (15W3/4)
- Assistant SWO (15W3)
- 24 hour Operations (4 x 1W071A/51A)
- 24-hour ACE Support (1 x 15W3 and 2 x 1W071A/51A)
- 24-hour Rear Operations Support (1 x 15W3 and 2 x 1W071A/51A)
- Subordinate EAC Aviation Brigade (1 officer, 8 enlisted--see below)
- Typical Equipment: Multiple Subscriber Equipment (MSE) telephones, New Tactical
Forecast System (N-TFS), AN/TMQ-43 (Small Tactical Terminal or STT), Tactical Very
Small Aperture Terminal (T-VSAT) (see Joint Pub 3-59 for equipment descriptions)
• Corps Weather Support: 12 personnel (2 officers, 10 enlisted), broken out as follows:

- 24-hour Deep Operations Cell Support (2 x 1W071A/51A)
- 24 hour OBS Augmentation (location TBD) (2 x 1W071A/51A)
- Subordinate Aviation Brigade (1 officer, 8 enlisted--see below)
- Typical Equipment: AN/GMQ-33, AN/TMQ-34, AN/TMQ-53 (Automated Surface
Observing System), Multiple Subscriber Equipment (MSE) telephones, Maneuver
Control System (MCS) terminal access, New Tactical Forecast System (N-TFS),
AN/TMQ-43 (Small Tactical Terminal or STT), T-VSAT (Tactical Very Small Aperture
Terminal) and AN/TMQ-40 (Integrated Meteorological System or IMETS (see Joint Pub
3-59 for equipment descriptions)
• Divisional Weather Support: 6 personnel (2 officers, 4 enlisted), broken out as follows:

- Operations (3 x 1W071/51A)
- Operations NCOIC (1 x 1W071A/91)
- Subordinate Aviation Brigade (1 officer, 8 enlisted--see below)
Observing System), MSE telephones, MCS, N-TFS, STT, T-VSAT (Tactical Very Small
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Aperture Terminal) and AN/TMQ-40 IMETS (see Chapter 8 or Joint Pub 3-59 for
equipment descriptions)
• EAC, Corps and Division Aviation Brigade Weather Support: 9 personnel (1 officer, 8
enlisted), broken out as follows:
- SWO (15W3/1W071A)
- 24-hour Operations (2 x 1W071A/51A)--could pull out to support 1 AVN BN
- 24-hour Operations (2 x 1W071A/51A)--could pull out to support 1 AVN BN
- Landing Zone (LZ) OBS Augmentation (location TBD) (2 x 1W071A/51A)
Observing System), MSE telephones, Small Tactical Terminal (STT), Tactical Very
Small Aperture Terminal (T-VSAT), laser range finder, AN/TMQ-40 IMETS x 3 (1 ETS,
2 x IMETS-L), and vehicles, weapons and Common Table of Allowance – 50 (TA-50)
personal issue, tactical equipment and MCS terminal access.
9.2 METOC Equipment and Key Software

9.2.1 Equipment and Hardware
• The Army provides:

• Table of Organization and Equipment (TOE) equipment (including vehicles, protective
masks, NVG’s and weapons) and TA-50 (personal equipment).
• Logistical items such as tents, field tables, cots, heaters etc.
• Integrated Meteorological System (IMETS, AN/TMQ-40). An Army-fielded system
consisting of a weather analysis and forecast system, plus tactical decision aids for the
commander. IMETS is designed to automate decision aid processes and provide
information into existing Army command and control systems
• The Air Force provides:
• All tactical meteorological (TACMET) sensing equipment.
• Air Force-provided Tactical VSAT, a deployable communications system, to provide the
means to gather weather data for the IMETS
• New Tactical Forecast System (N-TFS)
• Small Tactical Terminal (AN/TMQ-43, STT)
9.2.2 Software
• Integrated Weather Effects Decision Aids (IWEDA): IWEDA uses observed and forecast
weather data fields. MM5 data fields from AFWA or Battlefield Forecast Model (BFM)
populate the IWEDA database for forecasting . IWEDA applies operational rules to build
graphic overlays of GO (green), MARGINAL (Amber), and NO-GO (Red) weather
conditions based on the mission. In the event of a communications failure, the CWT can run
it’s own very short-range (temporal) forecast to run IWEDA.
• Electro-optical decision aid software, including Target Acquisition Weather Software

(TAWS) and Night Vision Goggle Operations Weather Software (NOWS). TAWS apply
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physics-based rules to observed and forecast weather data sets to compute identification and
lock-on ranges for electro-optic weapons. Can be used to exploit capabilities/limitations of
friendly electro-optical weapons systems. Modules include target acquisition ranges for
visual & IR systems, thermal crossover times, and target to background contrast information.
9.3 METOC Communications and Computers

Currently, AFWA and the OWSs transmit weather data and some satellite imagery to the CWTs via T-
VSAT. The CWT uses this data and IMETS to create weather intelligence products for the other
battlefield functional areas (BFA) in the tactical operations center. They host the weather intelligence as
still images on the IMETS homepage, or use the TOC's tactical local area network (TACLAN) to move
the weather products to the various BFAs. Army Objective Forces use the Army Battle Command
System (ABCS) to share this intelligence with the other BFAs. If available, CWTs can use SIPRNET or
TROJAN SPIRIT to send observed weather conditions from the deployed location to AFWA or the OWS.
Finally CWTs can use MSE and MCS to move weather products to non-collocated customers, and other
deployed CWTs.
Below are most of the METOC communications and computers used by CWTs;
• GCCS/TACLAN
• NIPRNET/SIPRNET/JWICS
• STACCS (Standard Theater Army Command and Control System). The Army's primary
command and control software. Used primarily as an electronic mail system, including file
transfer protocol (ftp) capability. The Army’s Global Command and Control System
(GCCS-A) will replace this system in the near future.
• Tactical Very Small Aperture Terminal (T-VSAT). An Air Force-provided and maintained,
commercial off-the-shelf satellite communications system to receive alphanumeric, graphic,
and gridded METOC data transmitted by AFWA and Operational Weather Squadrons
(OWSs) via the Air Force Weather VSAT network. Provides for integration into IMETS
operations
• NAMIS. A German satellite-based, two-way communications system used to receive
alphanumeric and graphic weather data and transmit alphanumeric data in EUCOM AOR.
NAMIS is a NATO system.
• MSE (Multiple Subscriber Equipment). Army multi-channel communications network.
Weather teams use it primarily for phone and fax communications.
- MCS (Maneuver Control System). Sub-component of MSE for command and control.
Terminal equipment and software used to connect with other elements of the MSE.
• TROJAN SPIRIT (Special Purpose Integrated Remote Intelligence Terminal). A HMMWV-
based processing and dissemination system, which uses C-band and Ku-band SATCOM
connectivity for worldwide service to deployed and split-based operations. SPIRIT provides
all source dissemination capabilities as well as secure voice, fax, and data. IMETS Block II
system includes TCP/IP connectivity capability allowing use of the TROJAN SPIRIT
communications path on a non-interference basis. IMETS Block I system upgrade will also
add TCP/IP capability.
• GCCS-A (Army Global Command and Control System). Army component of GCCS.
Army’s tactical link into the SIPRNET.
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• N-TFS Computer
9.4 Army METOC Data

9.4.1 Army METOC Data Sources
The US Air Force provides the bulk of weather support required by the Army. This includes
direct support to Army garrisons provided by USAF Operational Weather Squadrons (OWSs) in
accordance with AFI 15-126/AFMAN 15-135, Aerospace Weather Operations/CWT Operations.
Air Force Army weather support CWTs provide operational weather support to assigned Army
customers during exercises, training, contingencies, and war. In addition to the weather services
listed above, the Army has the organic capability to measure or observe some weather
conditions. The following represents the most significant sources of weather data within the
Army tactical structure: ARTYMET sections, Air Traffic Service (ATS) units, engineer units,
ground reconnaissance and surveillance elements, imagery interpretation elements, brigade and
battalion intelligence personnel, aviation squadrons/brigades, and Tactical Unmanned Aerial
Vehicle (T-UAV) limited observations from take-off and landing sites.
Each Army element possesses a limited measuring capability designed to meet its own
immediate needs, as described below. Consequently, their weather observing capabilities are
supplemental to their primary mission. They should not be viewed as a replacement or substitute
for USAF CWT support. USAF weather observation responsibility ends at the division
Command Post (CP).
• Artillery Meteorological Sections. ARTYMET sections provide meteorological data for

artillery firing units. They also provide upper-air observations and artillery limited surface
observations (ALSOs) to Air Force CWT.
- ARTYMET: Each field artillery brigade has an assigned ARTYMET team. Their
mission involves sampling weather parameters above firing batteries with balloon-borne
sensors. The ARTYMET team transmits that upper air data back to the Division Artillery
(DIVARTY) via Single Channel Ground/Air Radio(SINCGARS), where it is used to
improve the accuracy of fires. In addition to its importance in ballistic calculations, a
knowledge of the vertical profile of the atmosphere is an invaluable forecasting tool for
deployed CWTs.
- Meteorological sections are located where they can best sound the atmosphere through
which weapon trajectories will pass. The section should be well forward and within the
general proximity of a compatible communications facility. Considerations in selecting
the position for a meteorological section are:
> Prevailing winds

> Location of artillery units
> Communications facilities and capabilities
> Administrative support
> Local security
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- ARTYMET sections are equipped to perform electronic and visual upper-air observations
employing a balloon-sounding method. Normally, they are equipped with FM radio and
Multiple Subscriber Equipment (MSE) communications.
- ARTYMET sections in a corps area communicate with each other and exchange data on
the corps ARTYMET net. Artillery obtain meteorological data by monitoring this net at
specified times. DIVARTY units may also obtain meteorological data over the
DIVARTY combat net radio (CNR) system using the Single-Channel Ground and
Airborne radio System (SINGARS), a secure FM radio with data handling capability, and
through tactical fire direction computer system (TACFIRE) automatic data processing
(ADP) systems.
- ARTYMET sections sound the atmosphere to heights of 98,424 feet (30,000 meters), day
or night, and in all types of weather except during severe surface winds. A limiting factor
is time required for a sounding balloon to reach a required height. Where high altitude
soundings and several types of messages are required, meteorological sections are
capable of sounding the atmosphere every 4 hours. A meteorological section in position
is capable of producing a ballistic message for light artillery 30 minutes after releasing
the balloon. The minimum time required to produce a maximum height fallout message
is about 2 hours. If electronic equipment fails, sections have an alternate, but limited,
method of measuring upper-air winds by observing pilot balloons (PIBALs). Upper-air
densities and temperature are computed by using climatological tables with the current
surface values of each element (assuming there is no low cloud cover).
- All ARTYMET sections are trained to produce:

> Ballistic meteorological messages
> Computer meteorological messages
> Fallout messages
> Upper-air data for transmission to AWN / MIST
> Target acquisition meteorological messages
> Limited surface weather observations
• Air Traffic Service (ATS) Units. ATS units may have weather-observing instruments to
measure surface pressure, temperature, and surface wind velocity. In addition, aircrews,
flight operations personnel, and control tower operators visually estimate horizontal visibility
and obstructions to visibility, as well as observe and report such special phenomena as
lightning, thunderstorms, and tornadoes. Control tower operators assigned to ATS units are
trained by Air Force weather personnel to take limited weather observations.
• Engineer Units. Engineer elements can measure surface pressure, temperature, humidity,
and precipitation to determine the effects of weather on the terrain. The engineers can
provide stream flow measurements and predictions of river stages and floods.
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• Ground Reconnaissance and Surveillance Elements. Cavalry units provide the corps and
division principal ground reconnaissance capability. Cavalry and maneuver battalions have
organic ground reconnaissance capability that may be used to obtain information related to
weather, terrain, and overall environmental conditions requested by the G2 or S2. In
addition, long-range surveillance units (LRSUs) at division and corps may be required to take
weather observations deep across the forward line of own troops based on specific weather
requirements meeting the given situation.
• Imagery Interpretation Elements. These units can provide information on visibility, cloud
cover, traffic-ability, and flooding.
• Armored Cavalry Regiment (ACR), Brigade, Battalion, and Squadron Intelligence Personnel.
The Army G2 tasks ACR, brigade, battalion, and squadron intelligence officers to provide
weather observations as part of the FALOP. The frequency of observations depends on the
Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield (IPB) process, which identifies critical areas where
adverse weather may have a major impact on Army weapons, personnel, and tactics. High
priority must be placed on these messages to transmit them immediately to the SWO at the
division main CP.
• Aviation Squadrons/Brigades. Aircrews provide en route pilot reports via radio to ATS units
and/or USAF CWTs; or, upon return from the flight, to the USAF CWT operating location
for inclusion in their forecast products.
• T-UAV. T-UAV operators will provide limited observations back to the CWT via an
automated observing sensor. T-UAV operators will not manually send observations back to
CWT’s. At the same time, CWT’s will not be co-located with the T-UAV operators so a
communication link needs to be established to send forecasts from the CWT and receive the
limited observations from the T-UAV operators.
• USAF Combat Weather Teams (CWT)

- The following represent the most significant sources of METOC data provided by USAF
CWTs attached to Army organizations:
> Echelon Above Corps (EAC)

> Corps
> Division
> Aviation or Separate Brigades
> Armored Cavalry or Ranger Regiments
> Special Forces Groups and Battalions
> Special Operations Aviation Regiment
> Transportation GP/BN
> PSYOPS GP/BN
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- CWT composition varies depending on the nature and duration of the Army mission, the
theater of operations, and manning levels of the weather station itself. CWTs are
composed of one or more of the following: Staff Weather Officer, and officer and
noncommissioned officer forecasters.
- METOC data produced or collected by these units include surface weather observations,
upper air observation produced by Army units, pilot reports, and terminal forecasts.
• Communications procedures. Since Army units are mobile, locations must be included as
part of the METOC report; consequently, the Army requires these reports to be classified and
transmitted over secure communications channels. Within the Army structure, secure
METOC communications are passed from IMETS over MCS, MSE, or secure local area
networks (LANs) within the battalion or brigade Tactical Operations Center (TOC) or CP.
IMETS transmits to the JMO or OWS using SIPRNET through the MSE connection. This
echelon will relay the data to the supporting MFC via available secure means. IMETS also
provides connectivity with Army C2 systems.
9.4.2 Army METOC Data Products
9.4.2.1 Army METOC Centralized Products

• Army METOC organizations produce no "centralized" products. They receive strategic
weather products from AFWA, AFCCC, or FNMOC
9.4.2.2 Army METOC Theater Products

• METOC theater products are produced by the supporting OWS. METOC theater products
typically include graphical products, such as horizontal weather depictions and military
weather advisories. These products are produced on a daily basis. Other special METOC
theater products needed from an OWS must be pre-coordinated as part of the typical exercise
or crisis planning functions.
• Army units such as Third U.S. Army, I Corps, III Corps, or XVIII ABN Corps may be tasked
to form the core of a Joint Task Force. Under this scenario, units such as the 2d Weather
Flight, 1st Weather Squadron (1 WS), 3rd WS, or 18 WS would likely be tasked to form the
JTF Weather Cell and be required to establish requirements for, or produce and/or
disseminate, JTF-level weather products to lower echelons in-theater and back to the
supporting OWS or Navy METOC Center. In many cases, the supporting OWS or Navy
METOC Center will issue the Joint Operational Area Forecast (JOAF), with portions of the
JOAF designed to support Army operations.
• Army Tactical Operational Area Forecast (TOAF). The TOAF serves as the foundation for
operational support to Army customers; it may be a subset of the JOAF, tailored to fit Army
operations. The TOAF is written to address specific regions of operations, such as "Area A"
for V Corps and "Area B" for III Corps. Staff Weather Officers (SWOs) at their field
locations tailor the TOAF to their supported customers' operational thresholds.
9.4.2.2.1 Army CWT Products. Army CWTs produce customer-oriented, mission execution
forecasts and briefings used directly by their customer. These can include but are not limited to
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drop zone forecasts, aircrew briefings, METOC impacts to operations briefings, staff briefings,
and wind/stability data used by the nuclear/biological/chemical unit to produce chemical
downwind messages (CDMs).
- CDMs are usually produced by the CWT in coordination with their Army unit’s Nuclear,
Biological, and Chemical (NBC) section. AFWA provides the atmospheric data
necessary to run dispersion models within the CONUS and OWSs for OCONUS
locations. The CWT receives the data via T-VSAT, SIPRNET, NIPRNET, TROJAN
SPIRIT, or other common user communications systems and routes the data to the NBC
unit for incorporation into local dispersion model.
9.5 Key Army METOC Organizations

9.5.1 Key Army organizations that may form the core for Joint Task Forces:
• Third US Army - 2d Weather Flight, Ft McPherson GA

NIPRNET:
SIPRNET: http://arcent-86.arcent.army.smil.mil/sub/g2/swo/swo.html
DSN 367-4084/1686 / comm (404) 464-4084/1686; secure DSN 367-4898/1686
• XVIII Airborne Corps - 18th Weather Squadron, Ft Bragg NC

NIPRNET: http://www.bragg.army.mil/www-18ws
DSN 239-3150/3151 / comm (910) 432-3150/3151
• III Corps - 3rd Weather Squadron, Ft Hood TX

NIPRNET: http://www.hood-pao.army.mil/3dASOG_3dWS/wthr.htm
DSN 738-1190/1313 / comm (254) 288-1190/1313
• I Corps - 1st Weather Squadron, Ft Lewis WA

NIPRNET: http://www.lewis.army.mil/1ws
DSN 357-7061/5967 / comm (253) 967-7061/5967
• U.S. Army Europe (USAREUR) - 7th Weather Squadron, Heidelberg GE

NIPRNET: http://www.dcsintweb.hqusareur.army.mil/swo
SIPRNET: http://www.dcsintweb.hqusareur.army.smil.mil/swo
DSN (314) 370-8653/8583 / comm +49 6221 57 8583
Comm 24-hr POC 0171-216-5393
9.5.2 Key Army staff METOC organizations:
• Forces Command (FORSCOM)--2nd Weather Flight, Ft McPherson GA

NIPRNET: http://www.forscom.army.mil/weathr/default.htm
DSN 367-5403/6570 / comm (404) 464-5403/6570; secure DSN 367-5403
• Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC)--Ft Monroe VA.

DSN 680-2319 / comm (757) 727-2319
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• U.S. Army Central Command (USARCENT)--Ft McPherson GA

SIPRNET: http://arcent-86.arcent.army.smil.mil/sub/g2/swo/swo.html
DSN 367-4084/1686 / comm (404) 464-4084/1686; secure DSN 367-4898/1686
• U.S Army Intelligence Center (USAIC)--Ft Huachuca AZ

NIPRNET: http://huachuca-dcd.army.mil/WX_SPT/index.htm
DSN 879-6472/6493 / comm (520) 538-6472/6493 Fax: 1892
• U.S. Army Combined Arms Center (CAC)--Ft Leavenworth KS

NIPRNET: http://leav-www.army.mil/weather/home.htm
DSN 552-4056 / comm (913) 684-4056
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Chapter 10 - U.S. Marine Corps METOC
This chapter describes U.S. Marine Corps organizational structure, command relationships,
capabilities, equipment, and support requirements.
10.1 Marine Corps Forces (MARFOR)

10.1.1 Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF)
• Structure. Marine Corps METOC is structured to support the Marine Air Ground Task Force
(MAGTF). The MAGTF is a task organization consisting of a Ground Combat Element
(GCE), an Aviation Combat Element (ACE), a Combat Service Support Element (CSSE),
and a Command Element (CE). A MAGTF will vary in size based on the mission. The
Marine Corps has three structured MAGTFs which include a Marine Expeditionary Force
(MEF) built around a Division, a Marine Expeditionary Brigade (MEB) built around a
reinforced Regiment, and a Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) built around a reinforced
Battalion.
• Employment. Upon the employment of a MAGTF, tactical METOC support will transition
from garrison-based to on-scene METOC support as either a Meteorological Mobile Facility
Replacement (MetMF(R)) or a MEF Weather Support Team (MST). These tactical METOC
elements will forward deploy by attaching to the GCE, CSSE, CE and MEU as required.
- The MetMF(R) unit is a fully capable METOC facility, supported from the regional
offices (maritime theater centers), the large production centers (FNMOC,
NAVOCEANO, AFWA), and any other available sources (foreign facsimile, force
weather). They are organic to the Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) and normally
deploy in direct support of the ACE.
- The MST is a five man METOC team task organized to the mission with limited stand-
alone capability. The MST is also organic to the MWSS and is normally deployed to
support the Command Elements of a MEF, MEB, or MEU, as well as the GCE and
CSSE. When attached, the MST is organized within the Intelligence Section (S?G-2) of
the supported command and provides staff level METOC support for mission planning
and operational execution.
• Personnel. USMC METOC Military Occupational Skills (MOS):

MOS 6802 - Weather Service Officer. All 6802s are prior enlisted (Warrant Officers or
Limited Duty Officers)
MOS 6877 - (Secondary MOS) Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI)
MOS 6821 - Weather Observer
MOS 6842 - Weather Forecaster
MOS 6493 - Meteorological Equipment Technician
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10.1.2 Fleet Marine Force (FMF) METOC Structure
The structure and location of Fleet Marine Forces (FMF) is shown below in Figure 10-1. The
majority of Marine Corps METOC personnel are organized within the Marine Wing Support
Squadron Table of Organization (T/O) and participate in the Fleet Assistance Program (FAP) to
augment Marine Corps Air Station Weather Offices when not deployed.
HEADQUARTERS
Marine Corps
Marine Forces Atlantic (&) Marine Forces Pacific (&)

Norfolk, VA Camp Smith, HI
II MEF (*) III MEF (*) I MEF (*)

Camp Lejeune, NC Okinawa, JA Camp Pendleton, CA
Second Marine Air Wing (&) First Marine Air Wing (&) Third Marine Air Wing (&)
Cherry Pt, NC Okinawa, JA Mirimar, CA
MWSG 27 (*) MWSG 17 (*) MWSG 37 (*)

Cherry Pt, NC Futenma, JA Miramar, CA
MWSS 271 (*) NWSS 272 (#) MWSS 171 (#) MWSS 371 (#) MWSS 371 (#)
Bogue Field, NC New River, NC Iwakuni, JA Yuma, AZ Camp Pendleton, CA
NWSS 273 (#) MCAS 274 (#) MWSS 172 (#) MWSS 373 (#) MWSS 374 (#)
Beaufort, SC Cherry Pt, NC Futenma, JA Miramar, CA 29 Palms, CA
* Weather Officer Assigned
& Collateral Duty for closest assigned Weather Officer
# Weather Officer FAPed to MCAS/MCAF Weather Office
Figure 10-1. Location of Fleet Marine Force Activities
10.1.2.1 Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) METOC Structure. There are three MEFs within
the Marine Corps: I and II MEF each have four MWSSs, while III MEF has two. Both I MEF
and II MEF have 10 Weather Officers, 31 Weather Forecasters, and 48 Weather Observers,
while III MEF has 6 Weather Officers, 16 Weather Forecasters, and 24 Weather Observers. The
total FMF METOC force consists of 26 Weather Officers, 78 Weather Forecasters, and 120
Weather Observers. Figure 10-2 depicts FMF METOC personnel within a given MEF.
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MEF
(1) 6802
(1) 6842
Division MAW FSSG
MWSG
(1) 6802
F/W MWSS R/W MWSS F/W MWSS R/W MWSS
METMF(R) METMF(R) METMF(R) METMF(R)

(1) 6802 (1) 6802 (1) 6802 (1) 6802
(6) 6842 (5) 6842 (6) 6842 (5) 6842
(10) 6821 (10) 6821 (10) 6821 (10) 6821
MST MST MST MST

(1) 6802 (1) 6802 (1) 6802 (1) 6802
(2) 6842 (2) 6842 (2) 6842 (2) 6842
(2) 6821 (2) 6821 (2) 6821 (2) 6821
Figure 10-2. Current FMF METOC Organization
10.1.2.2 FMF METOC Command Relationships and Responsibilities.
• MEF Staff Weather Officer (SWO). Each MEF has established staff billets for 1 Weather
Officer and 1 Weather Forecaster. These Marines serve in the G-2 section under the
cognizance of the Intelligence Operations Officer and provide METOC support to the MEF
Commanding General and his staff. As such, they serve as the Subject Matter Expert (SME)
on all METOC related issues, ensuring that relevant, timely and accurate METOC support is
provided throughout the MAGTF. Additionally, the MEF SWO maintains liaison with other
Service counter-parts and represents the Commanding General at Joint Service METOC
meetings.
• Marine Wing Support Group (MWSG) Weather Officer. The MWSG Weather Officer is the
senior Weather Officer within the Marine Air Wing (MAW), responsible for coordinating all
METOC personnel and assets to meet support requirements validated by higher HQ, to
include METOC training within the MAW. Additionally, the MWSG Weather Officer
serves as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) on all METOC related issues for the MAW.
• Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) Weather Element. The MWSS Weather Element
is the primary source for METOC support. Manning at the MWSS consists of 1 officer, 5
forecasters, 10 observers, and 3 meteorological equipment technicians. Odd numbered
MWSSs are designated as fixed wing support squadrons and have an additional forecaster
and technician assigned. While in-garrison, most weather personnel FAP to the co-located
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MCAS/MCAF weather office in order to augment the Air Station work force and to maintain
technical proficiency. Each MWSS also has one MST within its structure. The MWSS
Weather Element can provide:
- An in-theater METOC production and processing facility using the Meteorological

Mobile Facility (Replacement) (MetMF(R)), TMQ-44A, as a central hub to maintain a
common METOC database.
- A continuous surface weather observation program
- Doppler Radar observations/imagery
- DMSP and NOAA satellite imagery in Fine/Smooth resolution
- Two remote weather sensors for surface weather observations
- Upper atmospheric soundings
- Receive Fleet Multi-Channel Broadcasts
- Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts for airfield and local area (25 NM radius)
- Local area severe weather warnings/advisories
- Climatological, astronomical, and tidal data
- Sea and surf conditions, current and forecast
- Secure and Non-Secure Pilot to METRO Services (PMSV)
- Aviation weather briefs as required by OPNAVINST 3710.7
- Electro-optic TDAs (TAWS) for Mission Planning and weapons system optimization
- Electro-Magnetic effects (AREPS) for mission planning and optimization of Electronic
Warfare Support (ES), Electronic Attack (EA), and Electronic Protection (EP)
- Target area, enroute, mission, and staff weather briefings
• MEF Weather Support Team (MST). The MST is a task-organized METOC team developed
to provide direct support to elements of the MAGTF other than the Aviation Combat Element
(ACE). The MST is normally employed within a Command Element's Intelligence Section in
order to integrate METOC impacts into the staff's deliberate and contingency planning as
well as the execution phase of an operation. Manning consists of 1weather officer, 2
forecasters, and 2 observers, although a full team is not always required to provide adequate
METOC support. The number of personnel deployed is primarily based on the operational
battle rhythm expected during the operation and anticipated METOC requirements. Although
the MST is organic to the MWSS, the MST manning is additional structure separate from the
manning required for the MetMF(R) and is requested via the MEF G-2/SWO.
- The MST has a very limited stand-alone capability and relies heavily on
NIPRNET/SIPRNET connectivity in order to ingest required METOC products from the
MetMF(R), regional centers, and HHQ METOC elements. MST organic equipment
includes the Interim Mobile Oceanographic Support System (IMOSS) which can receive
Weather Facsimile (WEFAX), APT Satellite, and HF Radio Broadcast. Each MST has
the capability to provide:
> A continuous surface weather observation program

> 24 – 96 hour Forecasts
> Severe weather warnings/advisories
> Climatological, astronomical, and tidal data
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10-USMC
> Sea and surf conditions, current and forecast

> Electro-optic TDAs (TAWS) for mission planning and weapons system optimization
> Electro-Magnetic effects (AREPS) for mission planning and optimization of
Electronic Warfare Support (ES), Electronic Attack (EA), and Electronic Protection
(EP)
> Target Board, impact, amphibious objective area (AOA), and staff weather briefings
10.2 USMC METOC Key Equipment and Software

USMC METOC has two primary pieces of equipment for meteorological communications, data
processing, and sensing: the Meteorological Mobile Facility Replacement (MetMFR) and the
Interim Mobile Oceanographic Support System (IMOSS).
10.2.1 Meteorological Mobile Facility Replacement (MetMFR).
Each MWSS is equipped with a MetMF(R).
10.2.1.1 MetMF(R) Overview. The MetMF(R) is a transportable system designed to provide

tactical METOC support to the MAGTF. It is a fully integrated system capable of automatic
data acquisition from communication channels providing METOC data, meteorological satellite
down links, and local and remote meteorological sensors. The MetMF(R) is capable of
disseminating METOC data and products via communication links and an indigenous video
briefing system. The MetMF(R) consists of ten subsystems: Processing Subsystem (PCS),
Communications Subsystem (CMS), Meteorological Satellite Subsystem (MSS), Rawinsonde
Subsystem (RWS), Local Sensor Subsystem (LSS), Remote Sensor Subsystem (RSS), Video
Subsystem (VDS), Meteorological Radar Subsystem (MRS), Portable Meteorological Subsystem
(PMS), and Shelter Subsystem (SSS).
10.2.1.2 MetMF(R) Subsystems
• Processing Subsystem (PCS). The PCS is a modular, software-intensive system designed to

process METOC data and produce METOC products. The PCS consists of a resident master
database and receives raw and processed data from local and remote meteorological sensors,
meteorological satellites and meteorological radar. Presently, the PCS is operating with the
Tactical Environmental Support System/Next Century (TESS/NC) Transition and Global
Command and Control System – Maritime (GCCS-M). The PCS will be replaced by the
Navy Integrated Tactical Environmental Subsystem (NITES) version I, principal METOC
analysis and fusion system, and NITES version II, GCCS-M, METOC input to mission
planners, timeframe to be determined. It will be Defense Information Infrastructure
(DII)/Common Operating Environment (COE) compliant and compatible with evolving joint
communication and METOC architectures.
• Communications Subsystem (CMS). The CMS enables the MetMF(R) to transmit and
receive secure and non-secure METOC data from meteorological channels, worldwide
meteorological broadcast frequencies, and satellite communications. The CMS will have
interoperable connectivity between the various other subsystems of the MetMF(R), the
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MAGTF C4I Local Area Network (LAN), and joint/government agencies and allied nations
via the GCCS-M. Two-way communications is accomplished through existing Marine Corps
communication infrastructure, normally the SIPRNET.
• Meteorological Satellite Subsystem (MSS). The MSS receives both high and low resolution
meteorological imagery from polar orbiting satellites and low resolution meteorological
imagery from geostationary satellites.
• Rawinsonde Subsystem (RWS). The RWS collects upper air soundings and will
automatically be ingested by the PCS.
• Local Sensor Subsystem (LSS). The LSS is installed within close proximity of the
MetMF(R) (within 150 feet) shelter and collect weather parameter measurements for
automatic ingestion into the PCS. The LSS will be a “WeatherPak” sensor suite designed to
measure and report: surface wind direction and speed, surface air and dew point temperature,
liquid precipitation rate, cloud height, visibility, atmospheric pressure and altimeter setting.
• Remote Sensor Subsystem (RSS). The RSS consist of two sets of sensors capable of being
installed at separate sites located up to 200 nautical miles from the MetMF(R). Each set of
“WeatherPak” sensors measures and reports: surface wind direction and speed, surface air
and dew point temperature, liquid precipitation rate, atmospheric pressure and altimeter
setting. The RSS transmits its measurements to the MetMF(R) by use of Meteorburst (VHF)
communications. During periods of low meteorite shower activity, an alternate means of
communications may be required. The PMW-185 METOC office is presently working to
resolve the issue.
• Video Subsystem (VDS). The VDS is capable of disseminating weather products,

meteorological imagery, and alphanumerics to one monitor located within 2000 feet of the
MetMF(R).
• Meteorological Radar System (MRS). The MRS (AN/TPS-76) provides real-time

surveillance and advanced warning of potentially hazardous atmospheric conditions in the
vicinity of the MetMF(R). The Doppler weather radar will measure rainfall intensities and
predict the likelihood of hazardous activity, such as conditions for hail, potential flooding,
and analyze the behavior of winds inside convective storm activity. The radar has a max
range of 200 nm with a severe weather range of 60 nm
• Portable Meteorological Subsystem (PMS). The PMS will consist of two Navy Integrated
Tactical Environmental Subsystem (NITES) version IV systems networked with the
MetMF(R) PCS through the MAGTF C4I LAN and SIPRNET. METOC data and products
received will be obtained from deployed MetMF(R)’s, Navy shipboard OA divisions, or
directly from METOC regional and processing centers. NITES IV is currently under
development and is expected to be ready for Fleet introduction during FY03. In the
meantime, three Interim Mobile Oceanography Support Systems (IMOSS) are provided as
adequate substitutions for the PMS.
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10-USMC
• Shelter Subsystem (SSS). The SSS consist of an Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)

International Organization for Standards (ISO) shelter, a Joining Corridor (8ft X 8ft X 10ft)
to provide the forecaster with a work/briefing area, two B0013 Environmental Control Units,
a power distribution system, and a grounding system.
10.2.1.3 MetMF(R) Communications Requirements:
Frequency Requirements: Approval must be granted for primary and secondary frequencies in
the following bands:
Table 10-1. MetMF(R) Frequency Requirements

Band Equipment Description Range Transmitting
Power
HF RT 7000 Transceiver 1.6- 29.999 MHz 125 watts
UHF AN/GRC-171B(V)4 METRO 200-399.999 MHz 50 watts
VHF MCC-520B Meteor Burst Master 41.7 MHz (fixed) 250 watts
Station
MCC-545A Meteor Burst Remote 41.7 MHz (fixed) 100 watts
Terminals
AN/VRC-90A SINCGARS 30-87.975MHz 50 watts
SHF AN/TPS-76 SWR 5.3-5.7 GHz 250 KW
COMSEC Equipment:
KWR-46 UHF SATCOM Fleet Multi-channel Broadcast (FMCB)

KY-58 UHF LOS Secure Pilot to Forecaster METRO
KG-44 DMSP Meteorological Satellite Imagery
USC-43(V)1 ANDVT Secure Voice
4
KG-84A SIPRNET/MAGTF C I Secure LAN
KG-84C HF data Air Force High Freq. Regional Broadcast
SECTEL 1100 AT&T STU III w/Key Secure voice/data, landline
10.2.1.4 METMF Siting Considerations:
• Sensor Placement - location must be free of obstructions which might block or alter wind
flow
• High Energy Emissions - due to high-energy radio frequency emissions from the complex,
ordnance, fuel, and personnel areas must be located a minimum of 100 yards away
• Radio Frequency Interference - other high-energy radiation sources must be placed at least
1/2 mile away from the complex
• Signal Blocking - a clear line of sight must be maintained for the operation of the weather
radar and satellite receivers
• Security - communications security (COMSEC) equipment and classified material storage
require tactical security measures to provide protection for Top Secret materials
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• Power - requires 120/208 VAC, 3 phase, 60 HZ Class L Power from either a commercial
source or dedicated generators(s) (100amp)
10.2.2 Interim Mobile Oceanographic Support System (IMOSS).
Each MWSS and MST is equipped with an IMOSS to provide forward support. The IMOSS is a
modular system, which provides the capability to provide limited METOC support in a stand-
alone mode with increasing capabilities realized with the addition of SIPRNET/NIPRNET
connectivity.
10.2.2.1 System Configuration. The IMOSS consists of three sub-systems, the main sub-system,
the communication sub-system and the satellite sub-system. Each subsystem can be a stand-
alone system depending upon mission requirements. Network Interface Cards (NIC) included in
each sub-system allows them to be networked together for easy file transfer and data
communications. The ability to network also allows the IMOSS user to tie into a Local Area
Network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN) to obtain products and data from remote
sources.
10.2.2.2 Main Module. The main module is designed primarily for briefing support and the
production of products from the GFMPL-NT suite of software.
• Hardware. The Main Module consists primarily of a laptop computer, classified and
unclassified hard drives, printer, and network interface devices.
- Laptop Computers. The main sub-system can be one of several types of laptop
computers that have been fielded. Due to rapidly changing technology and the
procurement cycle for the IMOSS, current laptop types and configurations may vary.
• Software. Due to rapidly changing technology and the procurement cycle for the IMOSS,
liaison with the Marine METOC officer will be required to learn what products are currently
available.
10.2.2.3 Communications Module. The Communication Module receives alphanumeric weather

data and facsimile broadcast via the HF receiver. The receiver of the module has the capability
to connect to the host ship’s HF antenna system or be deployed independently with its own
antenna. The communication sub-system consists of a laptop computer (any of several that have
been fielded), an HF radio, HF receiving antenna, interface devices, Weather Fax for Windows
software, and associated cabling.
10-8
10-USMC
Kenwood HF Receiver Dymek antenna system
Laptop Computer demodulator
Figure 10-3. IMOSS Communications Module Hardware
• Communications equipment
- HF Receivers
> Kenwood R-5000 HF Receiver

◊ HF all band short-wave multimode receiver
◊ Double conversion superheterodyne receiver
◊ Frequency range of 100KHz to 30MHz
◊ Receives all AM (Amplitude Modulation), USB (Upper Sideband), LSB
(Lower Sideband), FM (Frequency Modulation), CW (Continuous Wave),
and RTTY (Radio Teletype)
> Drake R8A/B communication receiver

◊ Frequency ranges 100 - 30,000 kHz
◊ Modes AM, LSB, USB, CW, RTTY, FM
◊ Microprocessor controlled, synthesized, all mode, world wide receiver
◊ RS 232 compatible interface
◊ Programmable memory
• Interface Devices
10-9
10-USMC
- DYMEK DA100D Tuner/Power Supply receiver antenna

> Receives frequencies between 50KHz and 30MHz
> Four foot fiberglass whip antenna
> HF pre-amp doubles as the whip antenna mount
> Tuner/power supply supplies 12VDC to the pre-amp and acts as a pre-selector,
amplifying only the frequencies desired
- DYMEK DA 100E all wave receiving antenna

> General coverage antenna
> Performance from 0.5 to 30 MHz
> Outdoor pre-amp with 4’8” telescopic element
> 50 foot of RG-58/U coax lead-in and control box
> Output impedance is selectable at 50, 100 or 500 ohms
IMOSS Communications Module Functional Diagram

COMM MOD
Antenna Host
Antenna
Tuner/Preamp
Laptop
Demodulator HF receiver
Computer
Figure 10-4. IMOSS Communications Module Hardware Configuration.
• Software. IMOSS includes the Weather Facsimile System for Windows (version 3) with
Demodulator
- Works with Windows NT 4.0
- Multitasking windows 3.1 and Windows 95 multiple document interface program
- Operates while other programs are running
- Unattended operations either by timer or by schedule
- Supports Weather Fax 60, 120, 240-LPM IOC 288 and 576
- Supports Fax tones 1500-2300 Hz and 600-900 Hz
- Supports TELEX, Baud 45, 50, 75 and 100 Baud
- Stores pictures in windows standard DIB format with 256 gray shades
- Printing and print preview
- Written in C++
- All processing is done off line
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10-USMC
- Software configurable to run on COM1 through COM4
10.2.2.4 Satellite Module. The IMOSS SAT MOD receives, stores, and displays data from
meteorological satellites. Depending on the antenna selected, Automatic Picture Transmissions
(APT) data from polar orbiters, as well as WEFAX data from geostationary satellites, can be
received and managed by WEATHERTRAC software. The SAT MOD can be linked to the
COM MOD and the MAIN MOD to provide data transfer and briefing support. It may also be
independently deployed. The network interface card (NIC) and modem, which are included in
the laptop computer, allow for Local Area Network (LAN) and Wide Area Network (WAN)
connectivity.
• Equipment Description. The SAT MOD contains (4) major components:
- Laptop computer (may be one of several different types that have been fielded)
- Worldport satellite receiver/demodulator

> Measures 9.5” deep x 7.5” wide x 1.5 “ high and weighs approximately 1 lb. Metal
encased VHF receiver and demodulator, capable of receiving weather satellite
imagery signals from APT, WEFAX, and wideband WEFAX sources. It can also
demodulate, but cannot receive, HF-FM/FSK from external SSB communications
receivers
- APT receiving antennas (V20 or Quadrifilar)

> High-performance volute APT WeatherTrac model V20A, with integral preamp--
totally enclosed in a 6” x 44” PVC pipe shell with no exposed radials; includes an
integral 20dB nominal low noise preamp. This antenna has an N-type connector, and
the internal preamp can be bypassed with a BNC barrel adapter.
> ¼ wave Quadrifiler antenna with external pre-amp--constructed of stainless steel and
designed to withstand the hardships of the marine environment.
- WEFAX receiving antenna. A six-foot diameter, mesh parabolic antenna (see Figure 10-
5). The antenna mounts to a “Patio Mount” and must be oriented toward a geostationary
satellite to receive WEFAX. The Integrated 1691 MHz Linear Feed/Downconverter,
manufactured by Quorum Communications, receives the signal at 1691 MHz and
converts it to 137.5 MHz.
10-11
10-USMC
Worldport
Laptop Computer
Quadrifilar
Antenna
V20/A Antenna WEFAX Antenna
Figure 10-5. IMOSS Satellite Module Components
• Software. Three applications are necessary to capture, ingest and display the satellite data.
These are WtCap, WtView, and WtAnim. The GPS0183 Utility is available but is not
necessary to receive data. Each application’s function is apparent in its name. For example,
the primary function of WtCap is to configure the SAT MOD to capture the data. WtView
allows image display and analysis. WtAnim is used to loop WEFAX images. The GPS0183
Utility allows IMOSS to receive time and location data from a GPS instrument (not currently
an IMOSS allowance item).
10.2.3 Software.
METOC software used by the USMC is comparable, and in most instances identical to, that used
by the USN.
10.3 USMC METOC Data

10.3.1 USMC METOC Data Sources
The Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS) is the primary source for weather observations
from the Marine Corps participants in joint operations. Aviation operations conducted at
expeditionary air fields will be supported by MWSSs, which are equipped with Meteorological
Mobile Facilities Replacements (MetMFRs) These facilities can operate semi-autonomously or
participate in a weather network. Figure 10-6 illustrates common data sources available to the
MWSS.
10-12
10-USMC
Basic observational capabilities of the MWSS include temperature, dewpoint, wind

speed/direction, weather phenomena, pressure, altimeter settings, cloud height/amounts/ and
upper air data types,
Navy Fleet
Multi-Channel
Broadcast 75 Baud
Channel 8/15
USN Fleet Fax
NIPRNET
120 SPM
SATCOM
UHF
HF
HF Intercept
HF (Indigenious
Broadcasts)
SIPRNET WJ-06
METMF(R)
Artillery
Ballistic
Soundings
Models: NOGAPS
COAMPS Satellite
MM5 Pireps Imagery
Locally Collected TIROS/DMSP
Data (Observations-Local
& Remote,MRS, Pibal,
Doppler Radar)
Figure 10-6. Marine Corps Data Sources
10.3.2 USMC METOC Data Products
10.3.2.1 USMC METOC Centralized Products
• The US Marines have no centralized METOC facility; instead, METOC organizations use
theater and centralized US Navy and US Air Force support.
10.3.2.2 USMC METOC Theater Products. The following products are produced at the
discretion of the senior weather officer when not provided by higher headquarters or to provide
greater detail:
• MAGTF WEAX. Includes the current METOC situation, 24 hour forecast, and 48 hour
outlook. Astronomical data and radiological fallout data is appended as required
• Tactical Atmospheric Summary (TAS). Includes an atmospheric refractive summary, tactical

assessment, electromagnetic sensor performance predictions, infrared sensor detection range
predictions, and communication range predictions
• Amphibious Objective Area (AOA) forecast. Includes meteorological situation, 24-hour

forecast for objective area, surf forecast for target beaches, tactical assessment, abbreviated
atmospheric summary, and astronomical data
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10-USMC
• Strike forecast. Provides a coordinated forecast whenever multiple strike

(OAAW/SEAD/DAS) platforms are operating as an integrated force under one tactical
commander
• Assault forecast. Provides a coordinated forecast whenever multiple assault support

platforms (VMGR/HMH/HMM/HMLA) are operating as an integrated force under one
commander.
10.4 Key USMC METOC Organizations
• II MEF METOC Officer

- DSN 751-8558 / comm (919) 451-8558
10-14
11-Special Ops
Chapter 11 - Special Operations Forces (SOF) METOC
This chapter describes U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) organizational structure,
command relationships, and support capabilities and requirements, including SOF METOC and
communications equipment.
11.1 Special Operations Forces (SOF)
SPECIAL OPERATIONS
COMMAND
Senior METOC Officer
NAVAL SPECIAL AIR FORCE SPECIAL JOINT SPECIAL ARMY SPECIAL

WARFARE COMMAND OPERATIONS COMMAND OPERATIONS COMMAND OPERATIONS COMMAND
(NAVSPECWARCOM) (AFSOC) (JSOC) (USASOC)
CORONADO, CA (OC) HURLBURT FIELD, FL (SWO) FT BRAGG, NC (SWO) FT BRAGG, NC (SWO)
NAVAL SPECIAL 16TH SPECIAL 1ST SPECIAL 75TH RANGER

WARFARE GROUP ONE OPERATIONS WING FORCES GROUP REGIMENT
CORONADO, CA (AG) HURLBURT FIELD, FL FT LEWIS, WA FT BENNING, GA
Naval Special Warfare Unit I (SOWT) (SOWT) (SOWT)
SEAL Team One
SEAL Team Three 3RD SPECIAL
352 SPECIAL 160TH SPECIAL
SEAL Team Five FORCES GROUP
OPERATIONS GROUP OPERATIONS
FT BRAGG, NC
MILDENHALL, UK AVIATION REGIMENT
(SOWT)
NAVAL SPECIAL WARFARE (SOWT) FT CAMPBELL, KY
GROUP TWO (SOWT)
5TH SPECIAL
LITTLE CREEK, VA (AG)
353 SPECIAL FORCES GROUP
Naval Special Warfare Unit 2
OPERATIONS GROUP FT CAMPBELL, KY 1ST BATTALION
Naval Special Wafare Unit 4
KADENA AB, JAPAN (SOWT) 1ST SPECIAL
(SOWT) OPERATIONS GROUP
7TH SPECIAL OKINAWA, JAPAN
SEAL Team 2
FORCES GROUP (SOWT)
SEAL Team 4
FT BRAGG, NC
SEAL Team 8 4TH PSY OPS (SOWT)
GROUP 1ST BATTALION
SPECIAL BOAT SPECIAL BOAT FT BRAGG, NC 10TH SPECIAL 10TH SPECIAL
SQUADRON 1 SQUADRON 2 (SOWT) FORCES GROUP FORCES GROUP
CORNADO, CA LITTLE CREEK, VA FT CARSON, CA BOEBLINGEN, GE
(SOWT) (SOWT)
(SWO) Staff Weather Officer (OC) Staff Oceanographer (AG) Staff Aerographer’s Mate (SOWT) Special Operations Weather Team
Figure 11-1. Weather Support to Special Operations Forces
• METOC personnel support SOF missions to plan, prepare, and conduct special operations,
civil affairs, and psychological operations in support of geographic CINCs. Incorporating
SOF METOC requirements early in the planning process will be critical to ensuring the
success of these missions.
- SOF include U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC), U.S. Army Special
Forces, U.S. Army Rangers, and U.S. Navy Seals
- USAF Weather Teams provide direct support to AFSOC, U.S. Army Special Forces, U.S.
Army Rangers and 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment
11-1
11-Special Ops
• Specialized training for METOC personnel supporting SOF includes: U.S. Army Airborne
School, USAF Survival School, Introduction to Special Operations, Joint Special Operations
Staff Officer Course, and Theater Orientation Course
• Establish Joint Special Operations Task Forces (JSOTFs) as required. A JSOTF is a

deployed special operations headquarters providing command and control for all theater
SOF.
- JSOTF manning is tailored to the mission. Normally for a large operation, contingency,
or exercise, a joint USAF and USN team is formed
- Joint weather team provides support for air, land, and sea operations normally conducted
in the deep battlefield environment
- Navy Seals normally acquire weather information from the deployed JSOTF or from the
nearest Navy METOC activity.
• Only SOCCENT has a permanently assigned METOC officer. All other Theater SOC
METOC support is provided or arranged on an additional duty basis by theater METOC
assets.
GEOGRAPHIC CINC
NAVAL MARINE SPECIAL OPERATIONS AIR FORCE ARMY

COMPONENT COMPONENT COMPONENT COMPONENT COMPONENT
JSOTF
SPECIAL
CVBG/ARG METOC Cell OPERATIONS
CORPS
LIAISON ELEMENT
AIR FORCE SPECIAL (SOLE)
NAVAL SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES *
WARFARE TASK Special Operations
UNIT (NSWTU) Coordinator
ARMY SPECIAL
OPERATIONS FORCES *
NAVAL SPECIAL
OPERATIONS FORCES *
Figure 11-2. Geographic CINC’s Special Operations Forces
- Theater SOCs and supporting METOC Organization
SOCACOM Mobile Environmental Team (MET) Naval Atlantic

Meteorology and Oceanography Center
(NAVLANTMETOCCEN), Norfolk, VA
SOCCENT Staff Weather Officer, U.S. Central Command

MacDill AFB, FL (Permanent Billet)
SOCKOR 607th Weather Squadron, Yongsan, Korea
11-2
11-Special Ops
SOCEUR Staff Weather Officer, U.S. European Command,

Vaihingen, GE
SOCPAC Mobile Environmental Team, Naval Pacific

Meteorology and Oceanography Center
(NAVPACMETOCCEN), Pearl Harbor, HI
SOCSOUTH Staff Weather Officer, U.S. Southern Command,

Miami FL
11.2 SOF METOC Equipment, Communications, and Key Software
• Equipment used by SOF METOC personnel includes MARWIN, SOF METOC, Electronic
SWO Kit (ESK), tactical weather radar, Manual Observing System (MOS), ALDEN 9315
TRT, New Tactical Forecast System (N-TFS), Small Tactical Terminal (STT), and Remote
Miniature Weather Station (RMWS). Equipment is compatible with Automated Weather
Distribution System (AWDS), AWN/MIST, and Navy Integrated Tactical Environmental
System (NITES) data streams.
• Several equipment/communications items are discussed in paragraph 8.2, Air Force

equipment
11.3 SOF METOC Data

11.3.1 SOF METOC Data Sources
• Observations are collected by the Special Operations Command (SOC) Special Operations
Weather Team (SOWT) from subordinate bases and detachments, but they will not normally
be transmitted outside of SOC communications channels due to OPSEC constraints.
11.3.2 SOF METOC Data Products
• SOF METOC teams rely upon the Special Support Operations Branch at the AF Weather
Agency, Offutt AFB NE, the Warfighting Support Center (WSC) at NAVOCEANO, Bay St.
Louis, MS, the Air Force Combat Climatology Center (AFCCC) at Asheville, NC, and
service regional/theater forecast centers/facilities to assist them in providing tailored support
to SOF
• Support capabilities:
- Target area, en route, mission and staff weather briefings for air, land, and water
operations
- Sea and surf conditions
- Climatological, astronomical and tidal data
- Electro-optic TDAs for mission planning and weapon employment
11-3
11-Special Ops
- Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts for airfield/forward operating base and local area (25 nm
radius)
- Customer tailored weather warning and advisories
- Coordinate tailored weather warning and advisories
- Coordinate Joint SOF mission forecasts
11.3.3 Key USAF METOC Staff Organizations
USSOCOM Meteorology and Oceanography

SIPRNET: http://soop.socom.smil.mil/weather/
DSN: 299-2519
AFSOC/DOW
SIPRNET: http://www.afsoc.af.smil.mil/cac/DO/DOW/index.htm
DSN: 579-2924
NAVSPECWAR FORCE METOC

SIPRNET: http://www.nsw.socom.smil.mil/cnswc/N3wx/weather.htm
DSN 577-0974
11-4
A-TPFDD
Appendix A - Time-Phased Force and Deployment Data

(TPFDD)
This appendix provides a brief overview of the Unit Type Codes (UTCs) used in TPFDDs, which
control force flow into (and out of) a theater during deployments.
A.1 TPFDD Planning Guidance and Formats

References: a. Joint Strategic Capabilities Plan (JSCP)
b. CJCSM 3122.03, Joint Operation Planning and Execution System, Vol II,
Planning Formats and Guidance
c. Army Mobilization Operations Planning and Execution System (AMOPES)
d. Navy Capabilities and Mobilization Plan (NCMP) and fleet planning guidance
e. Marine Capabilities Plan (MCP)
f. Air Force War and Mobilization Plan (WMP)
g. Joint Forces Staff College Pub 1, Chapters 6 and 7
h. AFI 10-400, Aerospace Expeditionary Force Planning
i. AFM 10-401, Operation Plan and Concept Plan Development and
Implementation
j. AFI 10-402, Mobilization Planning
k. AFI 10-403, Deployment Planning
• Process. In the Deliberate Planning Process, the TPFDD is developed during the Plan Development
Phase and forces for planning are apportioned in the Joint Strategic Capabilities Plan (JSCP). The
TPFDD is a computer database used to identify types of forces and actual units required to support an
OPLAN or OPORD. The data are time-phased, showing cargo and passenger movement from home
base to place of employment. TPFDD development involves four phases: force planning (identify
units), support planning (identify lift requirements), and transportation planning, leading to
deployment/redeployment execution. In Crisis Action Planning, forces for planning are allocated in
the WARNING, PLANNING, ALERT, or EXECUTE ORDER. The Joint METOC Officer will
need to be involved during the early phases of Crisis Action Planning to track METOC personnel
and equipment needed for execution of the operation. Navy and Marine Corps METOC personnel
and equipment deploy with their units and do not need to be added to the TPFDD. However, detailed
planning must be done for weather support to Air Force and Army units. Weather support is not pre-
packaged and must be tailored for each operation. Individual METOC personnel will also need to be
added to the TPFDD for the Joint Task Force headquarters (JTF), Joint Force Air Component
Command (JFACC), Joint Force Land Component Command (JFLCC), Joint Force Maritime
Component Command (JFMCC), and the Joint Special Operations Task Force (JSOTF). The
Staff Oceanographer or Weather Officer should work closely with the Senior METOC Officer at the
CINC level to assist in METOC augmentation. Additional METOC resources can come from the
supported CINC's components or from a supporting CINC (see paragraph 5.2.3).
A-1
A-TPFDD
CJCS JFCOM
GENERIC INITIATES PLAN
PROCESS EXAMPLE
CINC’s CONCEPT
JTF FORMED USJFCOM
SUBORDINATE COMMAND FORSCOM/ACC

FORCE LIST ESTABLISHED
FORCES VALIDATED NAVY/MARINE
TPFDD INITIATED
SUPPORTING COMMANDS FORSCOM/ACC

ADDS CS/CSS NAVY/MARINE
FUNCTIONAL MANAGERS WEATHER

ADDS SPECIALTY SUPPORT
SUPPORTING COMMANDS FORSCOM/ACC

APPROVES FUNCTIONAL MANAGERS
INPUT NAVY/MARINE
SUBORDINATE COMMAND FORSCOM/ACC

APPROVES SUPPORTING COMMANDS
INPUT
NAVY/MARINE
TRANSCOM
STRATEGIC LIFT FEASIBILITY
CINC ANALYSIS & EXECUTION
APPROVES FORCES/TPFDD JFCOM
CJCS
APPROVES PLAN
Figure A-1: JTF Force Planning/TPFDD Process
JTF POCs
- J-1 is the Manpower and Personnel section and usually handles individual augmentation
requirements
- J-5 is the Plans section and usually enters records into the TPFDD. The J-4 (Logistics), if not the
primary POC, will have a major part in the process
A-2
A-TPFDD
• Sample TPFDD record (reference: AFM 40-101)
ULN FORCE INDICATOR FIC UNIT

CRD SERVICE PROV-ORG UTC UIC
ORIGIN RLD MODE / SOURCE POE ALD MODE/
SOURCE POD EAD LAD MODE/ SOURCE DEST
RDD
#PAX TONS PRIORITY
(ready to load) (port of embarkation) (available to
load) (earliest arrival) (latest arrival) (destination)
(required delivery)
(port of debarkation)
TAAWA(plan unique #) STANDARD DEPLOY 0 18
WEA SQ ICR(serv specific)USAF CDR ACC
XWQA1 FFHNR0
FT BRAGG C002 L(land) G(mtmc) POPE AFB C036 A(air)
K(amc)
RAMSTEIN C040 C075 L(land) H(unit) BAD TOLZ C076
1(req pax) 0.3(equip weight)
In this sample, Ft Bragg (ORIGIN) will have 1 passenger and 0.3 tons of
equipment ready to load by C+2 (C is the designated deployment date),
travelling by government-provided land transportation to Pope AFB (POE).
Deploying individual and equipment will be available at Pope to load by C+36
(ALD), then deploy by Air Mobility Command airlift to Ramstein AB, arriving
anywhere from C+40 to C+75 (EAD, LAD). The unit then will provide its
own land transportation to get to Bad Tolz (DEST) by C+76 (RDD).
A.2 TPFDD Requirements (personnel and equipment)
A.2.1 Air Force.
TPFDD requirements for tactical AFFOR assets are controlled and maintained by the
Unified/Component commands. METOC planners should contact HQ ACC, HQ PACAF,
USCENTAF, SOUTHAF, and HQ USAFE weather plans sections for TPFDD information
regarding their METOC forces and assets:
• ACC Weather Plans (ACC/DOWO): DSN 574-8459/8462

• PACAF Weather Plans (PACAF/DOWX): DSN 449-8479
• USCENTAF Weather Plans (USCENTAF/A3-DOOWP): DSN 965-2297
• USAFE Weather Plans (USAFE AOS/AOXX): DSN 480-8564
• SOUTHAF: DSN 228-4514/4529
• Tactical AFFOR UTCs and Description
XW0BS WEA OBSERVATION KIT (GMQ-33 AND TMQ-34)
A-3
A-TPFDD
XWE0E WEA ELECTRONIC SWO KIT (LAPTOP COMPUTER)

XWNAM NATO AUTO MET INFO SYS (NAMIS) (USAFE ONLY)
XWPAC WEA COMMAND METEOROLOGIST (SENIOR O3 AND UP)
XWQA1 WEA FORECASTER/OBSERVER (E6 AND BELOW)
XWQA2 WEA OPERATIONS MANAGER (E7 AND UP)
XWQA3 WEA FORECASTER (E6 AND BELOW)
XWQAB WEA OPERATIONAL METEOROLOGIST (O1-O3)
WXQCT WEA QUICK REACTION COMM TERMINAL (QRCT) (PACAF ONLY)
XWSTT SMALL TACTICAL TERMINAL (TMQ-43)
XWTFS New-TACTICAL FORECAST SYSTEM (N-TFS)
XWTRT WEA RADIO FAX RECEIVER (9315TRT)
XWTWD WEA TACWIND (TMQ-36)
XWTAC Air Force Jump Qualified Weather Officer
XWTAD Air Force Jump Qualified Weather Observer
• Individual Air Force Weather Augmentees
Weather Officer (O4-O5) AFSC 15W3

Weather Officer (O1-O4) AFSC 15W3
Weather Chief (E9) AFSC 1W000
Weather Forecaster Superintendent (E8) AFSC 1W091
Weather Forecaster Craftsman (E6-E7) AFSC 1W071A
Weather Forecaster Journeyman (E4-E5) AFSC 1W051A
Weather Forecaster Apprentice (E1-E3) AFSC 1W031A
Weather Observer Analysts (E3-E5) AFSC 1W051
Weather Observer Apprentice (E1-E3) AFSC 1W031
A.2.2 Army
• Since the Air Force provides Army weather support, Air Force weather organizations
manage UTCs for weather support to the Army. POCs are listed at paragraph 8.5.2 (USAF
MAJCOMs) and paragraph 9.5.2 (Army staff organizations)
- POC for all FORSCOM augmenting forces is ACC/XOWO, delegated to

FORSCOM/SWO
- POC for all USAREUR augmenting forces is USAFE/DOW, sometimes
- delegated to USAREUR/SWO
- HQ USAF/XOW is the POC for all Army-support weather UTCs
- POC for all USARPAC augmenting forces is PACAF/DOW
• Tactical Army weather support UTCs and description
XWAAC ARMY SUPPORT COMMAND METEOROLOGIST (SENIOR O3 AND UP)

XWAA2 ARMY SUPPORT WEA OPERATIONS MANAGER (E7 AND UP)
XWAAB ARMY SUPPORT OPERATIONAL METEOROLOGIST (O1-O3)
XWAA1 ARMY SUPPORT WEA FORECASTER/OBSERVER (E6 AND BELOW)
A-4
A-TPFDD
• Supplies. AR 115-10/AFJI 15-157 identifies specific service logistics support

responsibilities to Army-support weather units
A.2.3 Navy
• Navy METOC personnel UTCs are:
UTC Description Qty Rank/Rate

KWP01 METOC Officer 1 01-04
KWP02 METOC Forecaster 1 E5-E8
KWP03 METOC Observer 1 E1-E5
KWP04 METOC Upper Air Team 2 E1-E5
• Navy METOC equipment UTCs are:
UTC Description Designator

KWC01 Automated Meteorological Observing Sys AMOS
KWC02 GOLDWING Tactical Comms System II AN-GRQ/27
KWC03 Mini-Rawin System AN/UMQ-12
KWC04 ICS-9700 UltraLite INMARSAT Systems INMARSAT
KWC05 Mini Facsimile Recorder TR-4
KWC06 Mobile Oceanographic Support System MOSS
KWC07 Interim Mobile Oceanographic Support Sys IMOSS
• The following UTCs are still valid, though the ones listed above should be used. If they are
used, they are limited to non self-deploying elements going to a JTF HQ, JFACC, or JSOTF.
- Personnel: use XWZ99 for UTC and insert the following information:
> Oceanographer Officer: Designator 1800
> Enlisted Forecaster: Navy Enlisted Code (NEC 7412); E5/E6
> E7-E9 (AGC, AGCS, AGCM)
> Enlisted Observer: E1-E5 (AGAR,AGAA,AGAN,AG3,AG2)
- Equipment: XWZ99 IMOSS (Interim Meteorology and Oceanographic Support System):
0.5 short ton
A.2.4 US Marine Corps
• Military Occupation Specialty (MOS):

Weather Officer WO1-CWO5; O3-O5 (MOS 6802)
Weather Forecaster E5-E9 (MOS 6842
Weather Observer E1-E5 (MOS 6821)
• Marine forces UTCs. All METOC equipment is contained within the first two UTCs;
METOC personnel are carried in any of the last 6 UTCs as a part of their unit
A-5
A-TPFDD
- 8DSF1: Fixed Wing Support Meteorology Mobile Facility (equipment only)

- 8DWR1: Rotary Wing Support Meteorology Mobile Facility (equipment only)
- 8MLUA: Rotary Wing Support Squadron (entire squadron to include METOC
personnel)
- 8MLUB: Rotary Wing Support Squadron with Maritime Pre-positioned Shipping (MPS)
- 8MLUP: Rotary Wing Support Squadron as a fly-in echelon
- 8MMUA: Fixed Wing Support Squadron (entire squadron, to include METOC
personnel)
- 8MMUB: Fixed Wing Support Squadron with MPS
- 8MMUP: Fixed wing Support Squadron as a fly-in echelon
A.2.5 Special Operations Forces (SOF)
• UTCs for JSOTF Headquarters:
- XWQAB Air Force Weather Officer 15W3

- XWQA1 Air Force Weather Forecaster 1W071A
- XWTAB Air Force Jump Qualified Weather Forecaster J1W071A
- KWP01 Navy METOC Officer
- KWP02 Navy METOC Forecaster
- KWP03 Navy METOC Observer
- KWP04 Navy METOC Upper Air Team
A-6
B-JOPES Formats
Appendix B - Joint Operations Planning and Execution System

(JOPES) Formats
References: a. CJCSM 3122.01, “Joint Operation Planning and Execution System,

Volume I, Planning Policies and Procedures”, 14 July 2000
b. CJCSM 3122.03, “Joint Operation Planning and Execution System,
Volume II, Planning Formats and Guidance”, 17 July 2000
This appendix details the standard locations that METOC information is used within JOPES.
Extracts from references (a) and (b) provide document formats. Reference (a) refers to the
Intelligence Estimate and Commander’s Estimate of the Situation. Reference (b) details the
formats for Operation Plans (OPLANs), Concept Plans (CONPLANs) and Operation Orders
(OPORDs): Basic Plan , Annex B (Intelligence), Annex C (Operations), Annex H
(Meteorological and Oceanographic Operations), Annex K (Command, Control, and
Communications Systems), and Annex N (Space Operations).
B.1 JOPES Volume I, Planning Policies and Procedures

This document contains procedures and formats for the CJCS Warning Order, Commander’s
Estimate, CJCS Planning Order, CJCS Alert Order, CJCS Deployment Order, CJCS Execute
Order, and the Operation Order. The CINC’s Strategic Concept (for deliberate plans) or the
Planning Directive (Crisis Action Planning) (also called the CINC’s guidance) is used by staffs
to develop the Staff Estimates, which are used to form the Commander’s Estimate.
B.1.1 Staff Estimate Formats
B.1.1.1 Intelligence Estimate (CJCSM 3122.01, Enclosure T, Appendix C)
1. MISSION.
2. ENEMY SITUATION. Statement of conditions which exist and indication of effects of these
conditions on enemy capabilities and the assigned mission. This paragraph describes the area
of operations, the enemy military situation, and the effect of these two factors on enemy
capabilities.
a. Characteristics of the Area of Operations. This paragraph discusses the effect of the
physical characteristics of the area of operations on military activities of both combatants. If
an analysis of the area has been prepared separately, this paragraph in the intelligence
estimate may simply steer to it, then discuss the effects of the existing situation on military
operations in the area.
(1) Military Geography.
(a) Topography.
B-1
B-JOPES Formats
(b) Hydrography.
1. Existing Situation. Describe the nature of the coastline; adjacent islands;

location, extent, and capacity of landing beaches and their approaches and exits;
nature of the offshore approaches, including type of bottom and gradients;
natural obstacles; surf, tide, and current conditions.
2. Effect on Enemy Capabilities. This section discusses the effects of the existing
situation on broad enemy capabilities.
3. Effect of Friendly Courses of Action. This section discusses the effects of the
existing situation on broad COAs for friendly forces.
(c) Climate and Weather.
1. Existing Situation. Describe temperature, cloud cover, visibility, precipitation,

light data, and other climate and weather conditions and their general effects on
roads, rivers, soil trafficability, and observation.
2. Effect on Enemy Capabilities. Discuss the effects of the existing climate and
weather situation on broad enemy capabilities.
3. Effect on Friendly Courses of Action. Discuss the effects of the existing

climate and weather on the broad COAs for friendly forces.
Note: METOC and Intelligence personnel produce this information.
B.1.1.2 Logistics Estimate (CJCSM 3122.01, Enclosure T, Appendix D)
The Logistics Estimate will summarize data about the area, taken from the Intelligence Estimate
with specific emphasis on significant factors affecting logistics activities. Specific METOC
concerns (e.g. trafficability) should be passed to the Logistics personnel if applicable to the
operations.
B.1.1.3 Commander's Estimate of the Situation (CJCSM 3122.01, Enclosure T, Appendix F)
1. MISSION.
2. THE SITUATION AND COURSES OF ACTION.
a. Considerations Affecting the Possible Courses of Action.
(1) Characteristics of the Area of Operations.
(a) Military Geography.
B-2
B-JOPES Formats
1. Topography.
2. Hydrography. Include the characteristics of offshore sea areas, approaches to

the beaches, currents, tides, the beaches themselves, ports, docks, and similar
maritime considerations.
3. Climate and Weather. Extremes of temperature, wind velocities, cloud cover,

visibility, precipitation, and other such factors that can affect military operations.
Sunrise, sunset, and twilight data are normally given in this subparagraph.
Note: METOC and Intelligence personnel produce this information.
B.1.2 OPLAN/OPORD/CONPLAN Formats (CJCSM 3122.03, Appendix)
B.1.2.1 Basic Plan/CINC’s Strategic Concept
Paragraph 4. Administration and Logistics, subparagraph f, Meteorological and Oceanographic

Operations. In preparing the Basic Plan, refer to Annex H. Ensure that when Annex H is
published, it is included in the list of Annexes at the end of the Basic Plan.
Refer to Annex H when included in the OPORD. For an OPLAN/CONPLAN which may not
include an Annex H, a more descriptive paragraph should be included.
B.1.2.2 Annex B, Intelligence
1. Situation.
a. Characteristics of the Area.
b. Hydrographic, Amphibious, Topographic, and Weather.
(1) Summarize the hydrographic data (sound, tides, wave height, and currents) and
amphibious considerations (beach defenses and obstacles, slope, consistency, and routes of
ingress and egress) needed to support amphibious and logistics over-the-shore operations
(LOTS). References Annex H and M.
(2) Address topographic aspects, including trafficability, key terrain, obstacles, cover,
concealment, and avenues of approach. Reference M.
(3) Include, as appropriate, climate and weather aspects as they pertain to the operational
environment. Coordinate with the staff weather officer or oceanographer and refer to
Annex H.
Note: METOC personnel prepare this information. Astronomical, climatic, and oceanographic
data may be published in appendices to this annex.
B-3
B-JOPES Formats
B.1.2.3 Annex H, Meteorological and Oceanographic Operations
ANNEX H TO CJTF XXX OPLAN XXXX-00

METEOROLOGICAL AND OCEANOGRAPHIC OPERATIONS
( ) REFERENCES: List documents that provide additional guidance and information.
1. ( ) Situation.
a. ( ) Concept of METOC Support. State the general concept of METOC operations to

support for the forces assigned to the OPLAN. May consider highlighting key products
(existing, new, tailored; distribution)
b. ( ) Assumptions. State the assumptions that affect the METOC operations required by
the plan. Provide estimates of the availability of data and facilities in the operational area,
availability of support from non-US and US nonmilitary agencies, and the feasibility of
obtaining METOC data from radar and satellites.
c. ( ) Planning Factors. Identify any significant METOC conditions that may influence the
execution of the plan. The purpose of this paragraph should be to establish the requirement
for any unusual METOC operations that will clarify the assignment of specific
responsibilities. Include METOC factors that may influence operations and the probability
of their occurrence (broad brush, seasonal patterns: temperature, winds, precipitation,
humidity, aviation impacts (clouds, fog, thunderstorms), maritime impacts (currents (ocean
and littoral), tides, water levels, sea surface temperature (SST), salinity, acoustics, waves),
optical phenomena (mirages), space environmental factors, Mission-Oriented Protective
Postures (MOPP) factors (endurance, acclimatization, hydration, exposure), solar/lunar data
d. ( ) Resource Availability. Identify items supporting units need to bring to support the
mission for a minimum of 90 days. Identify conventional and non-conventional weather
resources (INTERNET, INMARSAT, etc.) planned to be used. Consider including key IP
addresses, JOAF/special product headers and availability, and non-US capabilities (host
nation, coalition, non-government organizations (NGOs), humanitarian relief organizations
(HROs).
2. ( ) Mission. State in a clear, concise statement the METOC operations objectives in support
of the plan. Should answer how, when, who, what and where. Suggestions:
- When: usually WHENDI (when directed)
- Who: JTF and METOC support units
- What: accurate, consistent, coordinated, tailored METOC support
- Where: every applicable level of the JTF
- Objective: provide tailored support, timely advice to maximize effectiveness of JTF
operations, and provide force and resource protection
B-4
B-JOPES Formats
3. ( ) Execution.
a. ( ) Concept of Operations. Describe the METOC operations structure and how it will
function in the implementation of the plan. Refer to other documents available to tasked
units that establish doctrine and procedures, as appropriate. Note deviations from
standard practices and any additional procedures peculiar to the operation. Include the
operation’s phasing in separate subparagraphs; for example:
- Predeployment (climatology as planning tool, TPFDD planning, weather data to be
used, JMO/SMO coordination, astronomical data)
- Deployment (climatology/real world data, transition to Joint METOC Forecast Unit
(JMFU), JMO/SMO coordination)
- Employment (real world/climatological data; observe, analyze, and predict the state
of the battlespace and advise on impacts; determine customer requirements; evaluate
adequacy of support)
- Transition (same as before; JMO/SMO coordination; deactivation/transfer of JMFU
responsibilities)
- Redeployment (continues until forces redeployed or integrated into follow-
on/transition force; JMO/SMO coordination on redeployment requirements)
b. ( ) Tasks and Responsibilities. Identify the Service or Services responsible for providing
space and atmospheric, oceanographic, and terrestrial environmental support during the
operation, including weather communications, data base, and production responsibilities.
Delineate specific responsibilities to specific units:
- Requested SMO/CINC support (management of national/theater assets, manpower,
equipment, and communications)
- JMO tasks (climatology; Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield (IPB); METOC
impacts on Courses of Action (COAs); integration of METOC operations into joint
operations, including personnel, equipment, communications, organizational
structure, and logistics; coordination with components of JTF; assessment of METOC
effectiveness; data management; JMFU management)
- Sample component tasks (METOC structure should mirror JTF structure):
◊ ARFOR (battlespace meteorological watch; observations and forecasts; nuclear,
biological, and chemical (NBC) focal point; assess METOC impacts; coordinate
with JTF)
◊ NAVFOR (battlespace metwatch affecting maritime conditions in/near JOA;
surface and upper air observations; forecast for air, surface, and sub-surface
operations; assess METOC impacts; Amphibious Objective Area (AOA)
forecasts; coordinate with JTF)
◊ AFFOR (battlespace metwatch affecting air force operations in/near JOA;
observations and forecasts; assess METOC impacts; provide air-unique forecasts
(refueling, low-level, airdrop) if JFACC; coordinate with JTF)
◊ MARFOR (battlespace metwatch affecting MARFOR operations; observations
and forecasts; assess METOC impacts; coordinate with JTF; AOA forecast (if
NAVFOR not doing it)
◊ JSOTF (battlespace metwatch affecting joint special operations; assess METOC
impacts; coordinate with JTF)
B-5
B-JOPES Formats
◊ JPOTF (battlespace metwatch affecting joint psychological operations (e.g.,

leaflet drop forecasts); assess METOC impacts; coordinate with JTF. May be
handled by another component; i.e., ARFOR)
◊ Joint Civil-Military Operations Task Force (CMOTF provides potential interface
with NGOs/HROs)
◊ JFACC (battlespace metwatch for air operations in/near JOA; requirements for
alternate and divert airfields; observations; air-unique forecasts (air refueling,
low-level, airdrop); assess METOC impacts; coordinate air forecasts
◊ Service components (i.e., Navy, USAF, Army, USMC—provide support as
requested through CINC; coordinate with JMO and SMO as required; manage KQ
identifiers and MANOP headings)
c. ( ) Coordinating Instructions. Include instructions common to two or more components.

Suggestions:
- JOAF as coordinating forecast
- Assess JTF products for consistency, accuracy
- Develop local, tailored products
- Weather warning and advisory responsibility (may be on-scene or centralized facility)
- Satisfy subordinate units’ requirements
- Transmit products to JMFU
- Standardize/coordinate use of software (e.g., NITELITE)
- Designate production center(s), if appropriate (regional, oceanographic, space)
- Forward lessons learned, support deficiencies to JMO (for forwarding to SMO)
4. ( ) Administration and Logistics. Provide broad guidance on how logistic and administrative
support is to be furnished for METOC operations. (Reference to Annex D or pertinent command
directives may suffice.) If required, tell units to deploy a minimum x-day supply of expendables.
5. ( ) Command and Control. Indicate the channels for control of METOC operations if
different from the command relationships outlined in the Basic Plan or in Annex J. May want to
include:
a. ( ) A general statement of the scope and type of METOC C4I support applicable to the
operation (e.g., GCCS; can reference Annex K.) Include specific details explaining the
METOC communications concept and requirements in Annex K.
b. ( ) Instructions to cover periods when communication circuits are not operational. Cite
potential impacts to METOC operations and available backup resources.
c. ( ) Instructions for transmitting METOC information at echelons where special circuits

are not available.
d. ( ) Mechanism(s) for reporting METOC personnel and equipment status.
e. ( ) Instructions for implementation of METCON, OCEANCON, and ICECON.
B-6
B-JOPES Formats
f. OPSEC considerations (can reference Annex L).
Appendixes: None are specified in JOPES; however, appropriate matters above may be placed
in appendixes, when required, by length or detail of guidance required.
B.1.2.4 Annex K, Command, Control, and Communications Systems
Ensure that METOC communication requirements are included in Annex K Especially see
Appendix 3 to Annex K, Communications Planning and Appendix 4 to Annex K, Satellite
Communications Planning. Include Global Broadcast System (GBS) and bandwidth
requirements, SIPRNET/NIPRNET connectivity, radio networks (HF, VHF, UHF), telephone
networks, fiber optic networks, weather communications, air-to-air and air-to-ground
communications, fleet broadcast communications, and ship-shore-ship communications.
B.1.2.5 Annex M, Geospatial Information Services (GIS)
Ensure that any METOC requirements for GIS is included in this Annex. This includes any special
METOC products formatted Geospatially, METOC input to Geospatial Databases and any special
Oceanographic/Hydrographic survey requirements such as a Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA).
B.1.2.6 Annex N, Space Operations
1. Situation.
c. Friendly. Identify all friendly space forces and assets in theater and to be deployed in
theater. Include METOC satellite requirements as well as any associated receivers and
sensors.
2. Execution.
b. Space Activities. Ensure all required METOC information from space assets is stated in
paragraph (2) of Annex N.
Note: the word “environmental” in Annex N refers to any meteorological, oceanographic,

geodetic, and other environmental support information provided by space assets that affect space,
air, surface, or subsurface activities and assets. Describe detailed environmental services in
Annex H, Meteorological and Oceanographic Operations.
B.1.2.7 Other Annexes Potentially Requiring METOC input

• Annex D, Logistics (see Logistics Estimate)
• Annex P, Wartime Host-Nation Support
• Annex Z, Distribution
B-7
B-JOPES Formats
B.2 NATO/PfP (Partnership for Peace) Format

METOC operations can be documented in Annex T or Annex U, METOC Support. The format
will probably be finalized by the ad hoc Combined Joint Task Force (CJTF). The following
layout is similar to what is typically used:
1. Plan Identification (operations plan being implemented, if any)
2. References
3. Task Organization (in an exercise environment, may be Time Zone)
4. Situation
a. General (can reference the basic Operations Order (OPORD))

b. Strategic Conceptions, Scope, and Objectives (similar to objectives listed in
“Mission”, para 2 of Annex H of a U.S. OPORD)
c. Risk Assessment and Enemy Forces (probably N/A; could address safety, force
protection, supportability, and communications risks)
d. Centers of Gravity (critical aspects of METOC operations)
e. Friendly Forces (can reference basic OPORD)
f. Attachments and Detachments (may not be used)
g. Assumptions (similar to Annex H para 1.b.; may want to include additional NATO
factors)
h. Planning Factors and Constraints (similar to Annex H para 1.c.)
- Include general characteristics of the region (may be included in appendixes to the annex)
5. Mission (similar to Annex H para 2, “Mission”)

- Can include specific missions being supported, if known
6. Execution
a. Commander’s Intent (JMO’s intent)

b. Concept of Operations (similar to Annex H para 3.a.)
c. Task Allocation (similar to Annex H para 3.b.)
d. Coordination and General Tasks (similar to Annex H Para 3.c., “Coordinating
Instructions”)
e. Service Support
f. Designate production centers and supporting commands’ responsibilities
7. Command and Signal
a. Communications (circuits, backup, etc.)

b. Effectiveness of Support (report deficiencies in support)
c. Control of Information (for naval forces, exercise of METCON/OCCON/ICECON)
B-8
C-METOC Impacts
Appendix C - METOC Impacts on Operations
Purpose: This appendix provides a list of METOC impacts for typical operations (ground, air,
naval, amphibious), various platforms, and weapons systems. This is not an all-inclusive list.
Operational commanders set critical METOC thresholds. The METOC values listed below
are UNCLASSIFIED examples of critical thresholds, which can significantly effect tactical
operations or weapon systems. During the planning phase of each exercise or operation,
METOC limiting factors and thresholds must be reevaluated to ensure mission success.
Joint missions are affected by a wide variety of METOC conditions. Mission planners must be
aware of METOC factors that will affect their operations, ensuring the greatest chance of
mission success. All planners must be familiar with critical METOC thresholds in order to
effectively use weapon systems and to provide maximum safety for friendly personnel. Planners
must communicate their mission-specific thresholds to METOC personnel, so that ‘heads-up’
alerts can be issued. METOC personnel must be knowledgeable about critical METOC
thresholds for the weapon systems they support, to ensure they provide important information
required by decision makers.
Weather impacts are typically provided in “stoplight” format:
green (Favorable) minimal operational impacts

amber (Marginal) moderate operational impact
red (Unfavorable) severe operational impact
C.1 Ground Thresholds

OPERATIONS: FAVORABLE MARGINAL UNFAVORABLE
NBC WIND < 5 KTS WIND 5 - 10 KTS WIND> 10KTS
CHEMICAL WIND TO ENEMY WIND FM ENEMY
NO PRECIP LGT PRECIP MDT PRECIP
CLG>5000FT
NO LTNG LTNG<3.1NM
HUM>60% 30%<HUM<60% HUM<30%
*EACH CHEMICAL AGENT HAS ITS OWN SPECIFIC METOC CRITERIA
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NBC SMOKE WND> 5 KTS WND 5-18KTS WND > 18KTS
TEMP >120F
LGT PRECIP MOD PRECIP HVY PRECIP
VIS>1000M 400M<VIS<1000M VIS<400M
SFC INVERSION
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PERSONNEL/ 20< TEMP<85F -15F TO 20F TEMP>95F or <-15
LAND LGT PRECIP MOD PRECIP HVY PRECIP
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PERSONNEL/ CIG >1000FT
AIRBORNE WNDS < 17KTS WND 13-17KTS WND>18KTS
NO PRECIP LGT PRECIP MOD PRECIP
DENS ALT 4000-6899F DENS ALT>6900F
C-1
C-METOC Impacts
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FARP TSTMs > 25nm TSTMs WITHIN 5-25nm TSTMs W/IN 5 NM
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CROSS COUNTRY GROUND/DRY GROUND MOIST GROUND WET
MANEUVERS RAIN < .1IN/HR >1” RAIN/12 HRS >2”RAIN/12HR OR
OR > .1”/HR > .5”/HR
VIS > 3200M VIS 1000-3199M VIS < 1000M
NO SNOW SNOW ACC<6IN SNOW ACC>6IN
CLG>3000FT 1000FT<CLG<3000FT CLG<1000FT
TEMP>89.6F,<32F
WND<20KTS 20KTS<WND<30KTS WND>30KTS
ILLUM<10FCAND
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BRIDGING WND LT 10KTS WNDS >= 10KTS WNDS >= 35KTS
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ARMOR GUN VIS > 2000M VIS 1000 - 2000M VIS < 1000M
SIGHTING
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOW VIS > 3000M VIS 2000 - 3000M VIS < 2000M
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HELO OPS CIG > 500FT CIG 300 - 500 FT CIG < 300FT
VIS > 1600M VIS 800 - 1600M VIS < 800M
LGT TURBC/ICING MDT TURB/ICING
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HELLFIRE CIG > 2000FT CIG 800 - 2000FT CIG < 800FT
VIS > 5000M VIS 3000 - 5000M VIS < 3000M
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LOBL- LOCK ON CIG > 1900FT CIG 400 - 1900FT CIG < 400FT
BEFORE LAUNCH VIS > 7000M VIS 500 - 7000M VIS < 500M
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LOAL-LOCK ON CIG > 1700FT CIG 800 - 1700FT CIG < 800FT
AFTER LAUNCH VIS > 7000M VIS 1700 - 7000M VIS < 1700M
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
COPPERHEAD CIG > 3000FT CIG 1000 - 3000FT CIG < 1000FT
VIS > 2500M VIS 1000 - 2500M VIS < 1000M
NO PRECIP MDT PRECIP HEAVY PRECIP
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AIR SUPPORT CIG > 2000FT CIG 1000 -2000 FT CIG < 1000FT
VIS > 8000M VIS 3200 - 8000M VIS < 3200M
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PARADROP SFC WND< 13 KTS SFC WND 13-18 KTS SFC WND>18 KTS
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ARTILLERY CLG> 1500FT CLG 600-1499FT CLG < 600FT
VIS > 3000M VIS 1000-2999M VIS < 1000M
WND< 30KTS WND 30-35KTS WND >35KTS
TEMP< 20F >125F
LGT PRECIP MOD PRECIP HVY PRECIP
<10-3 FTCANDLE
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
COMBAT LGT PRECIP MOD PRECIP HVY PRECIP
SFC SUPPORT
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AIR DEFENSE CLG > 5000FT CLG 2500-4999FT CLG < 2500FT
VIS < 5000M
TEMP>120F
WND<20KT 20KT<WND<30KT WND>30KT
C-2
C-METOC Impacts
ILLUM<10-3FTCAND
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C.2 Air Thresholds

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CONVENTIONAL >= 3/8 CLDS >= 5/8 CLDS <= 6/8 CLDS
BOMBING MIDLEVEL BELOW BELOW BELOW
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CONVENTIONAL CIG>= 2000FT CIG >= 500FT CIG < 500FT
BOMBING LOWLEVEL VIS >= 5NM VIS >= 3NM VIS < 3
NM
500FT OVER NO ICG/TURB LGT ICG/TURB MDT ICG/TURB
TERRAIN AT FL AT FL AT FL
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DRONES (UAV) CIG > 6000FT CIG 4000-6000FT CIG < 4000FT
VIS > 8000M VIS 5000-8000M VIS < 5000M
ALT WND<40KTS ALT WND 40-60KTS ALT WND>60KTS
SFC WND<=15KTS SFC WND> 15KTS
HEAD WND<=25KTS HEAD WND>25KT
TEMP 25-125F TEMP<25,>125F
PRECIP-NONE PRECIP LGT PRECIP-MDT
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RECON-HIGH <4/8 CLD COVER 4/8 CLD COVER >4/8 CLD COVER
VIS > 6000M VIS 3700-6000M VIS < 3700M
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RECON LOW CIG > 4000FT CIG 2000-4000FT CIG < 2000FT
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RECON GRD VIS > 3000M VIS 1000-3000M VIS < 1000M
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AERIAL FL VIS>=6NM FL VIS >=1NM FL VIS <=1NM
REFUELING NO ICG/TURB LGT ICG/TURB AT FL MDT ICG/TURB
NO TSTMS NO TSTMS W/IN 25NM TSTM W/IN 10NM
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TACTICAL CIG >=1000FT 200<=CIG>= 500FT CIG<= 200FT
AIRLIFT VIS >= 5NM 1/2NM<=VIS>= 3NM VIS <= 1/2NM
LGT ICG MDT ICG SVR ICG
LGT TURBC AT FL MDT TURBC AT FL SVR TURBC
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INFRARED TRANS >=.6 TRANS>=.3 TRANS < .3
SYSTEMS NO FOG LGT FOG FOG
VIS >= 1NM VIS <= 1NM
NO PRECIP LGT PRECIP PRECIP
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PREDATOR NO PRECIP LGT PRECIP MOD PRECIP
CROSSWIND< 10KTS CRWND 10-15KTS CRWIND> 15KTS
SUS WND < 20KTS SUS WND 20-30KTS SUS WND > 30KT
CLG > 2000FT CLG 800-2000FT CLG< 800FT
VIS > 3 NM VIS 2-3NM VIS < 2NM
CLD COVER< 30% 30%-50%CLD COVER CLD COVR > 50%
NO ICING LGT ICING MDT/SVR ICING
LGT TURBC LGT- MDT TURBC MDT TURBC
TEMP>-19C AT 18000 <-19C BELOW 18000 <-19C BLW 13000
FREEZING PRECIP
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C-3
C-METOC Impacts
COMBAT CLG> 1500FT CLG 200-1499FT CLG < 200FT

SFC SUPPORT
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HELO (GEN) CLG > 1000FT CLG 300-999FT CLG < 300FT
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HELO (ATTACK) CLG > 2600FT CLG 1100-2599FT CLG < 1100FT
VIS > 3200M VIS 1000 - 3199M VIS < 1000M
WND < 25KTS WND 25-40 KTS WND > 40 KTS
TEMP > 90F
PRECIP LT PRECIP MOD PRECIP HVY
NO TSTMS SCAT TSTMS FEW TSTMS
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLOSE AIR CLG> 3500FT CLG 1000-3499FT CLG <1000FT
SUPPORT/AIR VIS > 3200M VIS 1600-3199M VIS < 1600M
INTERDICTION NO TURBC LGT-MOD TURBC HVY TURBC
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ELECTRICAL CLG SCT CLG BKN-OVC CLG OVC
OPTICAL/ NVG FULL MOON MOONRISE NO MOON
ABS HUM< 14g/m3 ABS HUM 14-18 g/m3 ABS HUM>18g/m3
TRANSMITTANCE>.4 TRANS .2-.4 TRANS<.2
ICING
TURBULENCE
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INTEL/ WND< 30KTS WND 30-45KTS WND > 45KTS
ELECTRONIC TEMP 33-84F TEMP 85-120F TEMP< 32F,>120F
NO PRECIP .1IN/HR<PRE<.5IN/HR PRECIP>.5IN/HR
CLG>3000FT 1000FT<CLG<3000FT CLG>3000FT
VIS > 1NM
NO TSTMS TSTMS W/IN 3NM
ILLUM>=10-3FTCAND
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INTEL/ CLDS < 45% CLDS 45-55% CLDS > 55%
RECCE TGT SFC VIS > 2000M 1000<SFC VIS<1999M TGT SFCVIS<1KM
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NVG- NIGHT VISION > 5 MILLILUX 2.5 5 MILLILUX <2.5 MILLILUX
GOGGLES
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C-4
C-METOC Impacts
C.2.1 Weather Sensitivities for Air Combat Command (ACC) and Marine Corps Aircraft
Aircraft Type: A-10

Max X-Wind Comp: 25 Kts
RCR#:
Max X-Wind for RCR#:
Induction Icing Thresholds:
Icing: Lgt may degrade msn, cannot operate in fcst mdt
Turbulence: May operate in lgt, avoid mdt or greater
Lightning/TSTMS: Avoid all TSTMs
In-Flight Refueling: Vsby >= 1nm
____________________________________________________________________________________
Aircraft Type: B-1
RCR#: 0 to 5 6 to 8 >8
Max X-Wind for RCR#: No Ops 15 20
Induction Icing Thresholds: Critical for engine start: Temp <= +47F with RH >= 50% and visible moisture
present. Visible moisture includes fog (vby<= 1nm), rain, wet snow, etc.
Icing: Icing limits operations
Turbulence: Avoid mdt/svr, prohibited from mdt/svr mtn waves.
Lightning/TSTMS: 10nm below FL250, 20 nm at and above.
In-Flight Refueling: FL180 to FL210, vsby >= .5nm
Remarks: Very sensitive to induction icing. Crew may ask for LL and aerial refueling
route forecasts.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Aircraft Type: B-2
RCR#:
Induction Icing Thresholds: Critical for engine start , temp at or below 4C, with relative humidity greater
than or equal to 50 percent and visible moisture preent. Visible moisture
includes fog, (vis < 1 m), rain, snow, water or slush on ramp, etc.
Icing: Limited anti-icing, no de-icing equipment, avoid all areas
of observed icing.
Turbulence: Cat 4 aircraft with few turbulence limitations except during
refueling.
Lightning/TSTMS: Avoid all thunderstorms by 25 nm.
Radar: Weather radar mode installed.
In-Flight Refueling: Altitude 21-26,000 ft, vis > 0.5 nm or more
Flight characteristics: Cruise airspeed - 350 kts, range - 500 nm (depend on
flight altitude profile), endurance - 10-12 hrs, maximum
cruise altitude - 50,000 ft, normal cruise altitude - 30,000 ft.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Aircraft Type: B-52
RCR#: 0 to 5 6 to 8 Greater than 8
Max X-Wind for RCR#: No Ops 15 Kts 20 Kts
Induction Icing Thresholds: Temp <= +47F and visible moisture. Visible moisture includes fog (vsby <=
1nm), rain, wet snow, etc. Temp <= +47F and the Tdp is within +40F of the
temp even though visible moisture is not present.
Icing: May operate for short periods in mdt
Turbulence: May operate in mdt
Lightning/TSTMS: 10nm below FL250, 20nm at and above
In-Flight Refueling: Vsby >= .5nm
Remarks: Aircrew may ask for LL and aerial refueling route forecasts.
C-5
C-METOC Impacts
____________________________________________________________________________________
Aircraft Type: C-17
RCR#:
Induction Icing Thresholds: Temp < 7C with precip., or standing water or ice present,
temp < 7C with dew point depression < 4C, dew point temp
between -4C and -1C and relative humidity > 80 percent.
Icing: Some anti-icing equipment, may operate in light-moderate.
Turbulence: May operate in moderate turbulence, no operations in areas
of forecast or observed severe.
Lightning/TSTMS: Avoid all thunderstorms by 10 nm (below 23,000 ft) and 20
nm (above 23,000 ft).
Radar: Weather radar installed.
Inflight Refueling Altitude 22-27,000 ft, vis > 1 nm or more.
Flight characteristics: Cruise Airspeed - 500 kts high alt, 350 kts low alt. Range -
2500 nm (loaded, no refuel). Endurance - 7 hrs. Max cruise
alt - 45, 000 ft. Normal cruise alt - 31,000 ft.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Aircraft Type: C-130
RCR#: 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 11 12 23
Max X-Wind for RCR#: 2 5 7 10 12 15 17 20 22 25 35
Icing: Avoid svr
Turbulence: Avoid svr
Lightning/TSTMS: 10nm below FL250, 20nm at and above (5nm tactical); must brief potential for
lightning.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Aircraft Type: E-3
RCR#: Acft may not taxi when <6
Icing: Prefers operating outside of icing areas
Turbulence: Avoid all turbc
____________________________________________________________________________________
Aircraft Type: E-4
RCR#: 0 to 5 6 to 8 9 to 13 >13
Max X-Wind for RCR#: No Ops 10 15 20
Icing: Avoid svr
Turbulence: Avoid svr of fcst svr, may operate in mdt
In-Flight Refueling: Vsby>= 1nm
____________________________________________________________________________________
Aircraft Type: F-15
RCR#:
Icing: May penetrate areas, no loitering
Turbulence: Avoid mdt or greater
C-6
C-METOC Impacts
Lightning/TSTMS:
____________________________________________________________________________________
Aircraft Type: F-15E
RCR#:
Icing: Anti-icing equipment, no loiter in icing operating
conditions.
Turbulence: Avoid observed moderate-severe turbulence.
Lightning/TSTMS: 10nm below FL250, 20nm at and above (5nm tactical); must brief potential for
lightning.
Inflight refueling: Vis > 1 nm.
Radar: Weather depiction radar mode.
Flight characteristics: Cruise alt - 515 kts. Range -1800 nm, ferry w/ dropped
tanks. Endurance - 3.5 hrs. Max cruise alt - 45,000 ft.
Normal cruise alt - 36,000 ft.
Remarks: Typical mission climb to combat cruise altitude (22-28,000
ft) at 475 kts, refuel inbound to target area (22-24,000 ft).
Normal combat duration 20 min., refueld outbound. Note:
future F-22 will have similar weather sensitivities.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Aircraft Type: F-16
Max X-Wind Comp: 25 kts
RCR#: 5 23
Max X-Wind for RCR#: 5 20
Induction Icing Thresholds: Values vary by unit operating the acft; 40F may be critical
Icing: Minimize duration of icing conditions
Turbulence: May degrade msn and acft
Lightning/TSTMS:
In-Flight Refueling: Vsby >= 1 nm
____________________________________________________________________________________
Aircraft Type: F-111/ EF-111A
RCR#: Wet runway
Max X-Wind for RCR#: 25 (day) 15 (night)
Icing: Icing degrades acft operations
Turbulence: May operate in lgt/mdt
In-Flight Refueling: FL180 to FL300, vsby >= .5nm
____________________________________________________________________________________
Aircraft Type: F-117
Max X-Wind Comp: 25 kts dry runway
RCR#: wet runway
Max X-Wind for RCR#: 15 kts
Induction Icing Thresholds: Engine icing can occur between ambient air temp -29 C
(-20 F) and 4 C (40 F), if dew point is within 4 C (7 F) of
ambient air tem. Accumulated sheets of thick ice may
break off inlet components when engine anti-ice
is turned on.
Icing: Anti-icing equipment installed at inlets, de-icing for wings,
avoidance policy
Turbulence: Avoid areas of moderate-severe turbulence
Lightning/TSTMS: Must avoid all TSTMS by 10 nm. Avoid all hail, no matter what
C-7
C-METOC Impacts
size.
In-Flight Refueling: Vsby >= 0.5nm, 18,000-22,000 FT.
Radar: Limited weather depiction radar using FLIR.
Flight characteristics: Cruise Airspeed: 450 kts (max level speed 560 kts. Range:
900 nm. Endurance: 2 hrs. Max cruise alt: 25,000 ft. Normal
cruise alt: 20,000 ft.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Aircraft Type: KC-10
RCR#: 0 to 5 6 to 8 >8
Max X-Wind for RCR#: No Ops 20
Icing: Icing limits operations
In-Flight Refueling: Vsby>= .5nm
Remarks: Cannot T/O with >.5in of slush or water on runway or 4 in of dry snow on
runway. Crew may need aerial refueling route forecast.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Aircraft Type: KC-135
Max X-Wind Comp: 25 Kts (C-135 & WC-135 = 30 kts)
RCR#: 0 to 5 6 to 8 >8
Icing: May operate up to 10 min in mdt, never in svr or fcst svr. WC-135 may operate
up to 15 min in mdt
In-Flight Refueling: Some KC-135s refuelable; EC, WC and RC-135s are refuelable.
Remarks Cannot T/O with >.5 in of slush or water on the runway. Pilots may need
height/temp of tropopause and temp at flight level. Crew may need aerial
refueling route forecast. C-135 is allowed to T/O and Lnd when afld is below
published wx minimums.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Aircraft Type: T-38
RCR#:
Icing: Avoid all icing
Turbulence: May operate in lgt/mdt
Lightning/TSTMS: Avoid by at least 20nm
In-Flight Refueling: No capability
____________________________________________________________________________________
Aircraft Type: TR-1/U-2
RCR#: 0 to 5 6 to 8 >8
Turbulence: Avoid more than ocnl lgt
Remarks: Max X-Wind Comp man depend on pilot’s experience
____________________________________________________________________________________
Aircraft Type: HH-1/UH-1
C-8
C-METOC Impacts

RCR#:
Turbulence: May operate in areas of lgt/mdt
Remarks: Operates under visual wx conditions only
____________________________________________________________________________________
Aircraft Type: HH-3/CH-3
Max X-Wind Comp:
RCR#:
Turbulence: May operate in areas of lgt/mdt
In-Flight Refueling:
Remarks: Vsby >= 1nm
____________________________________________________________________________________
Aircraft Type: AV8B (Harrier)
Convential Take Off (CTO) 20 kts day/night
Short Take Off (STO) > 120 kts - 15 kts day/night; < 120 kts - 10 kts
Rolling Vertical Take Off 10 kts day/5 kts night
Vertical Take Off (VTO) 10 kts
NOTE: Crosswind components of 20 kts are red, 10-19 kts are amber,
less than 10 kts is green. Unless there is some limitation, the
aircraft may be turned into the wind for a vertical takeoff.
Landings w/ approach speeds > 140 kts - 20 kts day/night; < 140 kts - 15 kts day, 10 kts night
NOTE: Daytime - > 20 kts red, < 15 kts green. Nighttime - > 15
kts red, < 10 kts green
Remarks: Uses the All Weather Landing System (AWLS). The AWLS is
authorized for use down to ceilings of 400 feet and visibility of
1 mile. Displays typical airframe reactions to thunderstorms,
water ingestion, icing and turbulence.
C-9
C-METOC Impacts
C.2.2 Air Mobility Command (AMC) Operational Airdrop Limits

EQUIPMENT AIRDROPS: SFC WND LIMITS
AF EQUIPMENT USING GROUND DISCONNECTS 17KTS
AF CDS USING G-12 PARACHUTES 13KTS
AF CDS USING G-13/14 PARACHUTES 20KTS
HAARS OR HIGH VELOCITY CDS. NO RESTRICTION
AF TRAINING BUNDLES 25KTS
NON-AF EQUIPMENT SUPPORTED DZCO DISCRET
PERSONNEL DROPS:
AF STATIC LINE (LAND) 13KTS
AF STATIC LINE (WATER) 17KTS
AF HALO/HAHO 17KTS
UNILATERAL PARARESCUE (WATER) 22KTS (S/L), 25KTS (HGRP)
UNILATERAL PARARESCUE (TREE) 17KTS
NON-AF PERSONNEL SUPPORTED DZCO DISCRET
C.3 Navy/Amphibious Thresholds

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NAVAL REFUEL WV HGT < 5 FT WV HGT 5-9FT WV HGT > 9FT
WND < 20 KTS WND 20-30 KTS WND > 30 KTS
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FLT OPS WV HGT< 7 FT WV HGT 7-12 FT WV HGT > 12FT
CARRIER WND < 25 KTS WND 25-35 KTS WND > 35 KTS
VIS> 3NM VIS .5NM-3NM VIS<.5NM
CLG > 1500FT 200FT-1500FT CLG < 200FT
TEMP>89.6F,<32F
RAIN< .01IN/HR 01IN/HR<RAIN>.5IN/HR RAIN>.5IN/HR
LTNG> 5NM FM SHIP 1.2NM<LTNG>5NM LTNG<1.2NM
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASM (MISSILE OPS) WV HGT< 6FT WV HGT 6-10FT WV HGT> 10 FT
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW (ANTI- WV HGT< 6FT WV HGT 6 -10FT WV HGT > 10 FT
SUB WARFARE)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SPODS- SFC WND 20-35 KTS SFC WND>35 KTS
SEAPORTS PRECIP .1-2IN/12HRS PRECIP>2.1IN/12
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
APODS- 1500FT AGL/4800M 200FT AGL/900M
AIRPORTS 8-12 RCR < RCR 8
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AIR TO AIR NO CLDS +/-5000FT NO CLDS +/- 3000- CLDSW/IN3000FT
AFTER VISUAL FM FLT LVL 5000FT FM FLT LVL OF FLT LVL
FL VIS >= 5NM FL VIS >= 3NM FL VIS < 3NM
NO CONTRAILS
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PATROL WV HGT < 8FT WV HGT 8-12FT WV HGT > 12FT
BOAT OPS WIND < 25KTS WND 25-40KTS WND > 40 KTS
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PERSONNEL OPS WATER 32 DEG F
Use Water Chill with or w/out Anti-Exposure Suit nomogram for hypothermia/survival parameters
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AMPHIB WV HGT < 6FT WV HGT 6-8FT WV HGT > 8FT
C-10
C-METOC Impacts
OPS WND < 20KTS WND 20-30 KTS WND > 30KTS
General MSI > 6
LITT CURR>3KT
RIPTIDE
TEMP>89.6F,<32F
CLG>3000FT 1000FT<CLG<3000FT CLG<1000FT
NO TSTMS TSTMS W/IN 3NM
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NVG’S HIGH > .0022 LUX MED .0011-.0022 LUX LOW < .0011 LUX
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AIR ASSAULT VFR SVFR IFR
(H-53/CH-46/COBRA)
DAY >1000FT/>3MI 500-1000FT/1-3MI <500 FT/<1MI
NIGHT >1000FT/>3MI 500-1000FT/<3MI <1000FT/<3MI
*SURFACE WINDS <25 KTS 25-45 KTS > 45 KTS
*Relative winds must be within ship launch envelope
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*WATERBORNE ASSAULT (GENERAL)
CCRC SS1 SS2 > SS2
LCM8 SS2 SS3 > SS3
LCU SS2 SS3 > SS3
LCAC SS3 SS4 > SS4
(Surf and/or combined seas have greater impact on exiting well deck rather than onshore arrival)
*Landing Craft parameters based on normal troop loadout for AMW assault.
Max Surf
CCRC < 2 FT 2-3 FT > 3 FT
LCM8 < 6 FT 6-7 FT > 7 FT
LCU < 6 FT 6-7 FT > 7 FT
LCAC < 7 FT 7-8 FT > 9 FT
Winds
LCAC < 25 KTS > 25-30 KTS > 30 KTS
Breaker Type
LCAC Spilling Surging Plunging (steep)
Littoral Current (LCU) < 1 KT 1-2 KTS > 2 KTS
(This is very generalized and can change significantly depending on user/mission type.)
Modified Surf Index (MSI)
LCM8 <7 7-8 >8
LCU < 11 11-12 > 12
LCVP <4 4-5 >5
*SIG Breaker HGT 0-4 FT 4-8 FT 8-12 FT
LCAC 75 tons overload 60 tons (normal) 45 tons (reduced)
*MSI criteria does not impact LCAC operations, limiting conditions for LCAC operations are based on load size
and significant breaker heights.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AMPHIB MARINE CLG > 5000FT CLG 300-4999FT CLG < 300FT
WARFARE/HELO VIS > 4800M VIS 1000-4799M VIS < 1000M
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AMPHIB MARINE CMBD SEAS < 1FT CMBD SEAS 1-5FT CMBD SEAS> 5FT
WARFARE/ MSI< 8 SURF IND 8-10 SURF IND > 10
LND CRAFT BRKER HGT< 5FT BRKER HGT 5 -8FT BRKER HGT>8FT
WAKE PERIOD> 8SEC WAKE PERIOD 6-7SE WAKE PRD<6SEC
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANTI-SFC SEAS < 6FT SEAS 6-8FT SEAS > 8FT
WARFARE/OVER LGT PRECIP MDT PRECIP HVY PRECIP
THE HORIZON TEMP > 103F
C-11
C-METOC Impacts
WNDS > 60 KTS

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
COMBAT SFC CMBD SEAS < 12FT CMBD SEAS 12-19FT CMBD SEA> 19FT
SUPPORT VIS > 400M
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MINESWEEPER CLG< 300FT
WARFARE (MIW)/ VIS > 1000M
AVIATION WND< 25KTS WND 25-35KTS WND>35KTS
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MIW EOD CURRENT< 1KT CURRENT 1-2 KT CURRENT >2FT
DIVERS CMBD SEAS < 3FT CMBD SEAS 3-5FT CMBD SEA > 5FT
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MIW/ HUNT CMBD SEAS < 3FT CMBD SEAS 3-5FT CMBD SEA > 5FT
WND< 20 KTS WND 20-30 KTS WND > 30 KTS
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MIW/SWEEP CMBD SEAS< 3FT CMBD SEAS 3-6FT CMBD SEA > 6FT
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C.4 Special Operations.

The U.S. Special Operations Command publishes critical Meteorological and Oceanographic
thresholds for SOF operations. The current version is on the USSOCOM SIPRNET homepage
(http://soop.socom.smil.mil/html/metocadm.html). METOC elements, critical thresholds, and
impacts on operations are provided for the following areas:
• Appendix A. USASOC Critical METOC Thresholds

- Army Special Operations Aviation/Airdrop
- Ground Operations
- Communications/Electro-Optical/Infrared Operations
- Maritime/SCUBA/Swim Operations
- Psychological Operations/Civil Affairs
• Appendix B. AFSOC Critical METOC Thresholds

- MC-130E/H/P, Combat Talon I & II
- HC-130P Combat Shadow
- AC-130H/U Specter
- C-130 Pathfinder
- C-141 SOLL II
- CASA 212
- MH-53J PAVE LOW III E/MH-60 PAVE HAWK
- MH-60G Shadow Hawk
- Airborne Operations: Personnel
- Airborne Operations: Equipment
• Appendix C. Naval Special Warfare Critical METOC Thresholds

- Parachute Operations
- SEAL Delivery Vehicle (SDV) Operations
- Combat Rubber Raiding Craft (CRRC):
- MK IV Patrol Boat (PB)
C-12
C-METOC Impacts
- Mini-Armored Troop Carrier (MATC)

- Patrol Boat, Light (PBL)
- Patrol Boat, Riverine (PBR)
- Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIBS)
- High Speed Boat (HSB)
- Patrol Craft (PC)
- MK V Special Operations Craft (MK V SOC)
- Swimmer Operations
C.5 Space Weather Impacts on Systems.

Tutorials on space weather and impacts are available from 55 Space Weather Squadron
(SIPRNET http://204.20.247.68/index_tutor.htm).
C.5.1 Space-based Systems
• Satellite Operation. As satellites are used more and more to support warfighters, space
weather effects on satellites become more important. Geomagnetic storms and high energy
particles from solar flares can cause satellites to behave abnormally and become useless for
extended periods. In the most extreme cases, these events can cause permanent failure of a
satellite.
• SATCOM. Many theater warfighters are becoming increasingly reliant upon satellite
communications (SATCOM), which is susceptible to scintillation. Scintillation produces a
rapid fluctuation in signal strength similar to the shimmering effect sometimes visible over a
road on a hot summer day. This “shimmering” causes a SATCOM signal to fade or be lost
completely for short periods of time, hindering or preventing communications. Scintillation
is most severe at high latitudes and within about 25 degrees of the equator. In addition to
scintillation, radio bursts from solar flares produce interference (usually for less than an hour)
for ground receivers that are pointed towards the sun.
• GPS Navigation. Scintillation also affects GPS navigation signals. Under extreme
conditions, GPS signals could be intermittently lost for several hours at a time. Potentially,
the signals from enough satellites could be lost as to cause loss of navigation capability. This
is especially important for GPS-guided munitions and GPS-guided aircraft landings. In
addition, extreme bending of GPS signals by the ionosphere can introduce errors of up to 100
meters in single frequency GPS receivers.
• High Altitude Aircraft. High energy particles from solar flares can pose a significant
radiation hazard to pilots of high altitude reconnaissance aircraft.
C.5.2 Ground-based Systems
• HF Radio Systems. HF (or shortwave) communications reflect signals off of the ionosphere,
enabling radio transmissions over large distances. Since the ionosphere can be highly
variable, shortwave communications depend heavily on good space weather conditions for
C-13
C-METOC Impacts
operation. X- rays from solar flares can change the ionosphere so much that sometimes
shortwave radios cannot operate for one to two hours over the whole sunlit half of the earth.
Geomagnetic storms and high energy particles from flares can cause shortwave radio
blackouts over and near the polar regions that can last for days.
• LF and VLF Navigation Systems. During solar flare-induced disturbances, LF and VLF
systems can experience large errors and signal problems.
• Compass Navigation. Intense geomagnetic storms can cause errors to compass readings.
• Radar returns. Solar flare activity and resulting geomagnetic storms can cause false returns
and radar interference if the radar is pointed poleward or sunward.
C-14
D-JOAF
Appendix D - Joint Operational Area Forecast (JOAF)

Examples
D.1 JOAF Format.

Consider use of existing bulletins as the JOAF. If a new product is required, a suggested format
could include:
• Prognostic Discussion
• Forecast out 24 or 48 hours (for Area 1, Area 2, etc. Include clouds, winds, temperature,
weather, visibility, etc.)
• Impacts on warfare areas (air, ground, amphibious, etc.)
• Tides/sea or Astronomical data
• TAFs available:
• Next JOAF / coordination, Remarks
D.2 JOAF Examples

D.2.1 JOAF Example 1
EXER/JTFEX 95-1//
SUBJ/JOINT OPAREA FORECAST//
POC/FURZE/CDR/J335/(804) 322-5990 EXT 7744/DSN 836-5990 EXT 7744//
RMKS/1. INTENT OF THIS MESSAGE IS ALIGNMENT OF WEATHER FORECASTS THROUGHOUT THE
JOINT TASK FORCE. DAILY UPDATES TO THIS OPAREA FORECAST WILL BE ISSUED PRIOR TO
1700Z. DIRECT QUESTIONS TO CJTF 950 METOC.
2. PROGNOSTIC DISCUSSION: HIGH PRESSURE OVER KARTUNA, KORONA AND TELARI MOVES
NORTH-NORTHEAST INTO THE LABRADOR SEA. AN INTENSE ARCTIC LOW OVER THE WESTERN
GREAT LAKES MOVES EASTWARD. ASSOCIATED COLD FRONT EXTENDING SOUTH THROUGH
TELARI MOVES RAPIDLY OFF THE EAST COAST BY SATURDAY EVENING. A NEW LOW DEVELOPS
OVER SOUTHEAST KORONA SATURDAY MORNING. MERGES WITH THE FRONTAL SYSTEM (FORE
MENTIONED) AND MOVES RAPIDLY NORTH-NORTHEAST ALONG FRONT. 1038MB HIGH OVER
MIDWEST MOVES EASTWARD TO WESTERN TELARI SUNDAY, PRODUCING STRONG NORTHWEST
FLOW OVER THE OPAREA. HIGH REMAINS IN PLACE THROUGH WEDNESDAY.
3. FORECAST FOR COASTAL REGION AND 150 NAUTICAL MILES OFFSHORE FROM KORONA NAVAL
BASE 1 (NORFOLK, VA) TO SABANI AIR BASE 1:
A. SATURDAY- CLOUDY WITH MIXED AND FROZEN PRECIPITATION IN NORTHERN TELARI,
NORTHEAST KORONA AND KARTUNA. HEAVY RAIN/ EMBEDDED SHOWERS THROUGHOUT
REMAINDER OF THE OPAREA. MODERATE SOUTHEAST FLOW AHEAD OF FRONT WILL VEER AND
BECOME STRONG WEST-NORTHWEST AFTER FRONTAL PASSAGE. SEA STATE 5 BECOMING 6,
EXCEPT COASTAL, SEA STATE 2.
B. SUNDAY- CLEARING RAPIDLY OVER ENTIRE OPAREA AS HIGH PRESSURE RIDGES SOUTHEAST.
STRONG NORTHWEST WINDS OVER NORTHERN TELARI AND ADJACENT WATERS; MODERATE
NORTHERLY FLOW OVER SOUTHERN TELARI, KORONA AND KARTUNA; STRONG NORTHERLY
FLOW OVER GULF OF SABANI. TEMPERATURES 18-22F, WIND CHILLS -11F INLAND, 28-32F
COASTAL. SEA STATE 5 BECOMING 6 OVER THE GULF STREAM, EXCEPT COASTAL.
C. MONDAY- CLEAR TO PARTLY CLOUDY. WINDS LIGHT AND VARIABLE OVER LAND, MODERATE
NORTHERLY FLOW OFFSHORE. SEA STATE 5, 4 IN SOUTHERN GULF OF SABANI.
D-1
D-JOAF
D. TUESDAY- CLEAR TO PARTLY CLOUDY WITH COASTAL MORNING FOG OVER SOUTHERN
KORONA AND SOUTHEASTERN TELARI. WINDS LIGHT AND VARIABLE OVER LAND REGIONS OF
OPAREA. MODERATE NORTHERLY FLOW OVER GULF OF SABANI. SEA STATE 5 DIMINISHING TO 4
NOON.
E. WEDNESDAY- CLEAR TO PARTLY CLOUDY WITH COASTAL MORNING FOG. WINDS LIGHT AND
VARIABLE OVER ENTIRE OPAREA. SEA STATE 4 DIMINISHING TO 2.
4. WEATHER IMPACTS ON WARFARE THRU FIVE DAYS :
SAT SUN MON TUE WED
AIROPS RED GREEN GREEN GREEN GREEN
AMPHIB OPS RED YELLOW GREEN GREEN GREEN
AIR/LAND OPS RED YELLOW GREEN GREEN GREEN
MARITIME RED RED YELLOW GREEN GREEN//
/OPER/UPHOLD DEMOCRACY/
MSGID/GENADMIN/NAVLANTMETOCDET GTMO//
SUBJ/JOINT OPAREA FORECAST/ JOAF (PART TWO)//
RMKS/1. SYNOPTIC SITUATION AT 050000Z: AREA OF LOW PRESSURE NR 29N 76W IS MVG EAST AT
08 KTS. ASSOCIATED TROF XTNDS SWD FROM LOW THROUGH THE FL STRAITS INTO THE
EASTERN GULF OF MEXICO AND IS SLOWLY MVG SOUTH, AND WILL INFLUENCE THE HAITI AND
GTMO OPAREAS ON THURSDAY. EASTERLY TRADES PREVAIL OVER THE CARIBBEAN WITH
RIDGING FROM THE MIDDLE ATLANTIC HIGH INFLUENCING THE NORTH-CENTRAL AND
NORTHEASTERN CARIBBEAN. WAVE PREVIOUSLY ALONG 70W IS NOW NR 75W SOUTH OF 17N
MVG W AT 12 KTS AND WILL NOT AFFECT THE HAITI OR GTMO OPAREAS. ANOTHER WAVE
ALONG 64W MVG W AT 10-15 KTS WILL WEAKEN AS IT MOVES UNDER AN AREA OF UPPER LEVEL
CONVERGENCE AND WILL NOT AFFECT THE OPAREAS. ELSEWHERE, WAVES ARE LOCATED ALG
53W, AND 35W MVG W AT 10-15KTS.//
2. 24 HR FCST COMMENCING AT 050600Z OCT 94 FOR THE FOLLOWING AREAS:
3. CITY OF PORT-AU-PRINCE:
A. SKY/WX: PTLY CLDY OCNL MSTLY CLDY WITH ISOLD RASH/TSTMS THRU EARLY AFTN AND
EVENING HOURS.
B. VIS (NM): UNRSTD, 1-3 IN PRECIP
C. SFC WINDS (KTS): ESE 4-8, INCRG 6-12 BY MID MRNG, THEN BCMG WESTERLY 10-15 BY MID
AFTN (SEABREEZE). ESE 4-8 AFT SUNSET.
D. MAX/MIN TEMP (F/C): 95/35, 78/26.
E. ASTRONOMICAL DATA (ALL TIMES ZULU) COMPUTED FOR 18.5N 72.3W
SUNRISE: 05/1041 SUNSET: 05/2235
MORNING NAUTICAL TWILIGHT: 05/0954
EVENING NAUTICAL TWILIGHT: 05/2322
MOONRISE: 05/1100 MOONSET: 05/2300
PCT MOON ILLUM: 00
SUNRISE: 06/1041 SUNSET: 06/2234
MORNING NAUTICAL TWILIGHT: 06/0954
EVENING NAUTICAL TWILIGHT: 06/2321
MOONRISE: 06/1204 MOONSET: 06/2351
PCT MOON ILLUM: 04
F. PORT-AU-PRINCE TIDES (FT) VALID 05 OCT - 08 OCT (ALL TIMES ZULU)
HIGH: TIME HEIGHT LOW: TIME HEIGHT
05/0636 .22
05/1318 1.91 05/1942 .48
06/0112 1.44 06/0718 .12
06/1412 2.02 06/2036 .52
07/0154 1.39 07/1506 2.08
08/0242 1.34
D-2
D-JOAF
4. 24 HR FCST COMMENCING 050600Z FOR FOLLOWING AREAS:

THE GULF OF GONAIVES TO INCLUDE SEAWARD OF PORT-AU-PRINCE (EAST OF A LINE FROM
19.6N 73.4W TO 18.4N 74.5W).
NORTH OF HAITI AND NORTHERN WINDWARD PASSAGE (NORTH COAST OF CUBA AT 75.4W TO
21.5N 75.4W TO 21.5N 70.6W TO NORTH COAST OF HAITI AT 70.6W COASTAL TO 19.6N 73.4W TO
20.2N 74.2W COASTAL TO COAST OF CUBA AT 75.4W) SOUTH OF HAITI (18.4N 74.5W TO 18.4N 75.4W
TO 17.3N 75.4W to 17.3N 70.6W TO SOUTH COAST OF DOMINICAN REPUBLIC AT 70.6W COASTAL TO
18.4N 74.5W)
A. SKY/WX: PTLY CLDY OCNL MSTLY CLDY WITH ISOLD RASH/TSTMS OVER LAND AREAS MID
AFTN/’EARLY EVENING, AND OVER WATER AREAS MIDNIGHT TO SUNRISE.
B. VIS (NM): UNRESTRICTED, 1-3 IN PRECIP.
C. SFC WINDS (KTS): ESE 10-15 KT, XCPT SSW 10-15 KTS NORTH OF HAITI AND THE WINDWARD
PASSAGE DUE TO RIDGING FROM THE MIDDLE ATLANTIC HIGH.
D. SEAS (FT): ESE 2-4, XCPT EAST 1-2 IN EASTERN GULF OF GONAIVES. SSW
2-4 NORTH OF HAITI AND WINDWARD PASSAGE.
5. 24 TO 48 HR OUTLOOK: DEVELOPING WAVE ALONG SURFACE TROF NR 25N 74W WILL CREATE
AN AREA OF LOW LEVEL CONVERGENCE OVER HAITI AND EASTERN CUBA ENHANCING
CONVECTIVE ACTIVITY THURSDAY. EXPECT MSTLY CLDY SKIES WITH SCATTERED RASH/ISOLD
TSTMS. WINDS SSW 10-15 KTS, SEAS SSW 3-5 FT.
6. 48 TO 72 HR OUTLOOK: NORMAL DIURNAL CONDITIONS RETURN AS WAVE TRACKS NE AND
WEAKENS. PTLY CLDY TO MSTLY CLDY SKIES WITH ISOLD RASH/TSTMS. WINDS E 10-15 KTS,
SEAS E 2-4 FT.
7. 3 TO 5 DAY OUTLOOK: XPCT CONTD NORMAL DIURNAL CONDITIONS THROUGH THE PERIOD.
WAVE NEAR 53W WILL APPROACH THE HAITI OPAREA BY SUNDAY WITH MOST OF THE
CONVECTIVE ACTIVITY REMAINING SOUTH OF 18N.
8. REQ SHIPS IN OPAREA AND WATERS SURROUNDING HISPANIOLA PROVIDE 6 HRLY/3HRLY WX
OBS AND UA SOUNDINGS TO:
NAVLANTMETOC DET GUANTANAMO BAY CU//00//JMFU//
9. 24 HR TAFS (02Z, 08Z, 14Z, 20Z) AND HOURLY OBS FOR PORT AU PRINCE AND CAP HATIEN ARE
AVAILABLE UNDER HEADERS KQUU AND KQUW, RESPECTIVELY.
10. NEXT JOAF 060202Z.
11. MINIMIZE CONSIDERED. RELEASED BY LCDR HELM//
SUBJ/JOINT OPAREA FORECAST/JOAF (PART THREE)//
RMKS/24 HR TAFS FOR THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS:
1. PORT AU PRINCE:
TAF 1818 27005KT 9999 SCT010 SCT030 BKN100 QNH 2980INS CIG100 BCMG 2223 09005KT 9999 SCT010
BKN030 BKN100 QNH2984INS CIG030 VCTSRA TILL 03
2. CAMP D APPLICATION:
TAF 1818 2800515KT 9999 SCT015 SCT030 BKN080 QNH2980INS CIG100 VCSHRA
TEMPO 2203 3200 TSRA BKN020 OVC030 CIG020 BCMG 0506 12009KT 9999 SCT030 SCT080 BKN250
QNH2983INS CIG250
3. CAP HAITIEN:
TAF 1818 32007KT 9999 SCT030 BKN080 QNH2980INS CIG080 VCSHRA WND VRBO4 AFT 05
TEMPO 2002 VRB10G15KT 4800 TSRA SCT020 BKN030CB OVC055 CIG030 BCMG 1415 03009KT 9999
SCT030 SCT250 QNH2984INS
4. GONAIVES:
TAF 1818 27005KT 9999 BKN030 BKN100 BKN250 QNH2985INS CIG030 VCSHRA
TEMPO 2202 VRB10G15KT 4800 -TSRA BKN020CB BKN030 OVC080 CIG020 BCMG 0405 12003KT 9999
SCT030 SCT080 BKN250 QNH2985INS
5. JACMEL:
TAF 1818 16012G15KT BKN030 BKN080 BKN250 QNH2985INS CIG030 VCSHRA
TEMPO 2003 VRB15G20KT 3200 TSRA BKN015CB BKN030 OVC080 CIG015 BCMG 0506 18005KT 9999
SCT030 BKN080 BKN250 QNH2983INS CIG080
6. TAFS WILL BE ISSUED AT 00Z, 06Z, 12Z, 18Z
7. MINIMIZE CONSIDERED. RELEASED BY CAPT REINS//
BT
D-3
D-JOAF
SUBJ/JOINT AREA FCST (JOAF)//

RMKS/ THE MISSION PLANNING FORECAST WILL BE METWATCHED AND AMENDED AS
REQUIRED//
1. FLIGHT MINIMUM DEFINITIONS:
VFR: GTE CIG040, VIS 8000
MVFR: CIG039-020, VIS 7000-6000
IFR: LT CIG020, VIS 6000
2. JOAF NUMBER 347. VALID 100900Z TO 110900Z DEC 95.
A. SYNOPTIC SITUATION: HI PRES CONTS TO RDG SOUTHEAST ACRS REGION PRDCG XTNSV LO
CLDS AND HVY FOG.
B. MARITIME ADRIATIC FORECAST
WEATHER: MSTLY CLDY OCNLY OVC
WIND (KTS): NORTH: NORTHEAST 10-15 CNTRL/SOUTH: EASTLY 6-12
TURBC: NONE
ICING: NONE
MAX/MIN TEMP (F/C): 50/10 46/08
MIN ALTSTG: 30.49
SEAS (FT): NORTH: NORTHLY 1-3 CNTRL/SOUTH: NORTHEAST 1-2
SEA SURFACE TEMP (C): NORTH: 15 CNTRL: 15-16 SOUTH: 16
DITCH HEADING (MAGNETIC): NORTH: 330 CNTRL/SOUTH: 110
C. COASTAL REGION UP TO DINARIC ALPS
AREA FORECAST: 2000 BR SCTVBKN050/010 BKNOVC020/040 TEMPO 0921 0800 FG OVC006 BECMG
2123 0800 F BKNOVC005/010 TEMPO 2109 2000 BR SCTVBKN 010/020
TURBC: NONE
ICING: NONE
MAX/MIN TEMP (F/C): 46/08 43/06
MIN ALTSTG: 30.47
D. CENTRAL MOUNTAIN REGION AROUND SARAJEVO AND TUZLA
AREA FORECAST: 0400 FG BKNVOVC005/008 BKNOVC 015/030 TEMPO 1021 2000 BR SCTVBKN010/030
TURBC: NONE
ICING: NONE
MAX/MIN TEMP (F/C): 36/02 32/00
MIN ALTSTG: 30.39
E. ZAGREB AND NORTHERN REGION
AREA FORECAST: 0400 FG BKNVOVC010/030 TEMPO 1120 2000 BR SCTVBKN010/030
TURBC: NONE
ICING: NONE
MAX/MIN (F/C): 34/02 30/M01
MIN ALTSTG; 30.38
F. 48 HOUR OUTLOOK VALID 110900Z DEC 95: HI PRES CONTS TO RDG SOUTHEAST DOMINATG
REGION PRDCG 15-20KT BORA WINDS ACRS ENTIRE EASTRN SHORE EARLY IN PRD. FOG AND
XTNSV LO CLDS LIFT OVR WATER WHILE LO CLDS AND HVY FOG RMN OVR MTN AREAS.
G. 72 HOUR OUTLOOK VALID 120900Z DEC 95: HI PRES PRESISTS THRU PRD PRDCG SLIGHTLY
INCRG BORA WNDS. HVT FOG RMNS OVR MTN REGIONS.
H. FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT NAVEURMETOCCEN ROTA SP BY MSG OR DSN 727-
2410/3985.
FORECASTER: SMITH//
D-4
E-METOC LOI
Appendix E - METOC Letter of Instruction (LOI) Examples
E.1 METOC Letters of Instruction.

In developing a METOC LOI, be sensitive to differences between the Services. The Air Force
tends to be explicit and will explain and task many items in an LOI. The “plan” is developed,
and deviations or additional actions are coordinated as required during the “decentralized
execution”. The Navy minimizes amplifying guidance, maximizing use of existing internal
directives. If the CONOPS or LOI doesn’t say not to do it, you can do it (command by
negation). Each mission is much like the previous, and Navy personnel usually know what to do
without need for coordination. Suggested format for an LOI (from JP 3-59):
• Originator
• Addressees: units in the JTF, supporting force commanders, and supporting activities
• Classification
• Subject: unclassified exercise/operation name, followed by 'METOC LOI'
• Reference: applicable/supporting OPORDs, OPLANs, etc.
• Points of contact
• Purpose: what does this LOI achieve?
• Situation: why is a joint force METOC operation required?
• Concept of METOC operations: how will the METOC function operate? Can reference
Annex H
• Assumptions
• Planning factors: METOC conditions that may affect plan execution
• Mission: METOC objectives in support of the Joint Force Commander's plan
• Execution: time period of expected operations, coordinating instructions, tasks and
responsibilities. Paragraph B.1.2.3 of the Handbook includes suggestions for paragraph 3
(Execution) of Annex H that are applicable in an LOI
• Deployment: on-station time
• OPSEC
• Coordination instructions: instructions common to two or more components or subdivisions
• Operational constraints: limiting factors, such as manning or equipment
• Administration and Logistics
• Equipment and Supplies
• Command and Control: command relationships
• METCON, OCEANCON, ICECON, SPACECON: conditions for implementation
• Communications: METOC data flow/availability; homepages, KQ identifiers, etc.
• Reporting: after action reports, equipment/personnel status, product assessments, etc.
• METOC Assistance Requests: how to request special products
E-1
E-METOC LOI
E.1.1 METOC LOI Example 1
MSGID/GENADMIN/USEUCOM/J33/DEC//
SUBJ/METOC LETTER OF INSTRUCTION-OPERATION JOINT ENDEAVOR//
REF/A/DOC/CJCS1 3810.01, METEROROLOGICAL AND OCEANOGRAPHICAL SUPPORT, 30 JUN 93//
REF/B/DOC/JOINT PUB 3-59, JOINT DOCTRINE FOR METEOROLOGICAL AND OCEANOGRAPHIC
SUPPORT, 22 DEC 93//
REF/C/DOC/CINCSOUTH OPLAN 40105, 24 NOV 95//
REF/D/DOC/CINCEUR OPLAN 4243, 2 DEC 95//
NARR/REF A AND B DESCRIBE NOTIONAL METOC SUPPORT TO OPERATIONS. REF C IS THE NATO
OPLAN DESCRIBING OVERALL NATO FORCES OPERATIONS IN SUPPORT OF “OPERATION JOINT
ENDEAVOR”, AND REF D IS THE US SUPPORTING PAGE 03 RUSNMHS1026 UNCLAS
OPLAN TO REF C.//
POC/T. E. COE/MAJ/DSN: 314-430-8141//
RMKS/1. PURPOSE. THIS METOC LETTER OF INSTRUCTION (LOI) IS FORWARDED TO AMPLIFY
INFORMATION PROVIDED IN REFERENCE D. COORDINATION BETWEEN NATO METEOROLICAL
AND OCEANOGRAPHIC (METOC) ELEMENTS IS CRITICAL FOR OPERATION JOINT ENDEAVOR (JE)
IN ORDER TO ACHIEVE UNITY OF EFFORT. THIS LOI DESCRIBES US METOC FORCE
AUGMENTATION TO NATO HEADQUARTERS AS REQUESTED BY SHAPE IN THEIR CRISIS
ESTABLISHMENT DOCUMENT, AND US FORCES DEPLOYING IN SUPPORT JE.
2. CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS (CONOPS). US METOC PERSONNEL WILL PROVIDE METOC SERVICES
AND PRODUCTS TO NATO AND US HEADQUATRERS ELEMENTS, AND TO US FORCES SUPPORTING
US, NATO, AND UN OPERATIONS IN THE JE AOR IAW REFERENCES A AND B. SINCE JE IS A NATO
OPERATION IAW REF C, ALL US METOC FORCES (EXCEPT TALCE SUPPORT) WILL BE PLACED
UNDER THE OPERATIONAL CONTROL OF THE SENIOR US METOC OFFICER (SMO), LOCATED WITH
THE NATO IMPLEMENTATION FORCES (IFOR) COMMANDR. THE FOXX BULLETINS PRODUCED BY
THE EUROPEAN METOC CENTER (EMC) AT PAGE 04 RUSNMHS1026 UNCLAS
TRABEN-TRARBACH, GE, ARE THE OFFICIAL LAND FORECASTS FOR US OPERATIONS SUPPORTING
JE. THE EMC WILL COORDINATE THESE FORECASTS WITH THE NATO UNIFIED WEATHER
FORECAST, PRODUCED BY THE AFSOUTH METOC BRANCH AT NAPLES, ITALY; AND WITH THE
NAVY EUROPEAN METOC CENTER (NEMOC) AT ROTA, SPAIN. ANY DEVIATION FROM THESE
FORECASTS SHOULD BE COORDINATED IN ADVANCE WITH THE EMC. EACH SERVICE
COMPONENT WILL COLLECT METOC INFORMATION FROM AND DISSEMINATE INFORMATION TO
THEIR SUBORDINATE UNITS (SEE PARAGRAPH 4).
3. LOCATIONS AND TASKS. ALL DEPLOYMENT LOCATIONS ARE CURRENT AS OF 12 DEC 95.
A. IFOR HEADQUARTERS, ZAGREB, HR (KQLM). THE IFOR SENIOR US METOC OFFICER (SMO)
WILL DEPLOY TO SUPPORT THE NATO IFOR SENIOR US METOC OFFICER (SMO) WILL DEPLOY TO
SUPPORT THE NATO IFOR HEADQUARTERS. HE WILL DPLOY WITH THE AFSOUTH NATO CHIEF
MET OFFICER (C MET O), AND ONE AF AND ONE NAVY METOC TECHNICIAN (E-6/E-7). HE WILL BE
RESPONSIBLE FOR COORDINATING THE COLLECTION AND DISSEMINATION OF NATO AND US
OBSERVATIONS AND FORECASTS. THIS INCLUDES DETERMINING WHICH UNIT WILL PROVIDE
THE OFFICIAL OBSERVATION AND/OR FORECAST FOR EACH
PAGE 05 RUSNMHS1026 UNCLAS
LOCATION WHERE THERE IS MORE THAM ONE UNIT. IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT THIS TIME-
SENSITIVE DATA BE TRANSMITTED INTO THE AWN / MIST AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. EUCOM WILL
DISSEMINTE THE HQ IFOR KQ IDENTIFIER ONCE THEY DETERMINE THE FINAL HQ IFOR
DEPLOYMENT LOCATION.
B. ALLIED RAPID RESPONSE CORPS (ARRC) MAIN, SARAJEVO, HR (KQLR). ONE USAF OFFICER
WILL DEPLOY TO SUPPORT THE NATO SENIOR MET OFFICER AT THE ARRC, PROVIDING METOC
SUPPORT TO THE LOGISTICAL HEADQUARTERS OF THE NATO MAIN FORCE.
C. USAREUR FORWARD, TASZAR, HU (KQKA; AIRFIELD: KQKB; ISB: KQKH). A TWO-OFFICER
ELEMENT WILL DEPLOY TO PROVIDE METOC SUPPORT TO THE NATIONAL SUPPORT ELEMENT ON
TH EUS MAIN BODY FORCE.
D. 1ST ARMORED DIVISION (1 AD), TUZLA, HR (TOC: KQAC; AIRFIELD: KQLH). THE 1 AD 18-
PERSON STAFF WEATHER OFFICE, DET 2, 617 WS, WILL DEPLOY WITH THE PRIMARY US IFOR
E-2
E-METOC LOI
UNIT. THEY WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR PROVIDING ALL METOC SUPPORT FOR THE DIVISION,
INCLUDING ALL AIR ASSETS.
E. THERE WILL BE FOUR USAF TACTICAL AIRLIFT CONTROL ELEMENTS (TALCE), LOCATED AT
TUZLA, HR; SARAJEVO, HR; TASZAR, HU, AND RHEIN
MAIN AB, GE. MANNING FOR THESE UNITS HAS NOT BEEN FINALIZED AT THIS TIME; AGAIN,
EUCOM WILL DISSEMINATE THE TALCE KQ IDENTIFIERS ONCE THEIR MANNING AND LOCATIONS
ARE KNOWN.
F. SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES WILL ALSO DEPLOY A NUMBER A NUMBER OF TEAMS INTO THE
FORWARD AREAS. EUCOM WILL DISSEMINATE THE KQ IDENTIFIERS ONCE FIRM LOCATIONS
KNOWN.
G. DETACHMENT 4, 617TH WEATHER SQUADRON (USAFE) AT TRABEN-TRARBACH, GE WILL
PRODUCE THE OFFICIAL US OPERATIONAL FORECASTS (FOXX BULLETINS). THESE BULLETINS
ARE/WILL BE ABAILABLE BE VARIOUS MEANS; SEE PARAGRAPH 4.C.
H. THE NAVAL EUROPEAN METOC CENTER (NAVEURMETOCCEN) ROTA, SPAIN WILL PROVIDE
THE OFFICIAL ADRIATIC SEA FORECASTS AND SUPPLEMENT DISSEMINATION BY POSTING
METOC BULLETINS ON THIER BROADCASTS AND BBS, AS WELL AS COORDINATING SUPPORT
WITH COMSIXTHFLT METOC OFFICER FOR FORCES AFLOAT. NAVEURMETOCCEN WILL BE
RESPONSIBLE FOR COORDINATING AND POSTING METOC DATA AN THE TAC III SIPRNET (NITES)
WORKSTATION FOR
ACCESS VIA THEIR HOMEPAGE.
I. MARITIME METOC FORCES: OA DIVISION - USS WASP, MOBILE ENVIRONMENTAL TEAMS: CDS-
14 EMBARKED USS SCOTT, USS SOUTH COAROLINA, AND USS NORMANDY. THE SENIOR METOC
OFFICER AFLOAT SUPPORTING JOINT ENDEAVOR WILL COORDINATE METOC SUPPORT FOR
AFLOAT UNITS, AS DIRECTED BY COMSIXTHFLT METOC OFFICER IN OPTASK METOC.
4 METOC BULLETINS
A. THE OFFICIAL NATO CENTRALIZED FORECAST FOR JE, THE UNIFIED WEATHER FORECAST
(UWF), IS ONLY AVAILABLE ON THE NATO COMMAND AND CONTROL SYSTEM (CCIS). SINCE CCIS
IS NOT ROUTINELY ACCESSIBLE TO EVERONE, THE EMC AND NEMOC ROTA WILL CONTINUE TO
PRODUCE THE FOLLOWING BULLETINS.
(1) FOXX 21 ETTT: FORECASTS FOR SARAJEVO, SPLIT, SKOPJE, DUBROVNIK, BIHAC, BANJA LUKA,
MOSTAR, TUZLA, KAPOSVAR/TASZAR, AND AN ADRIATIC SEA FORECAST. AS UNITS DEPLOY TO
TESE LOCATIONS AND BEGIN ISSUING TAFS, THAT LOCATION WILL BE DROPPED FROM THE
BULLETIN
(2) FOXX 21 EUTT: LONG-RANGE FORECAST FOR THE FRY. NO CHANGE.
(3) FOXX 23 ETTT: GOUND FORECAST AND IMPACTS TO OPERATIONS FOR SARAJEVO. WILL BE
TRANSFERED TO DPLOYED FORCES UPON ARRIVAL.
(4) FOXX 24 ETTT: GROUND FORECAST AND IMPACTS TO PPERATIONS FOR SKOPJE. NO CHANGE.
(5) FOXX 25-26 ETTT: GROUND FORECAST AND IMPACTS TO OPERATIONS FOR ZAGREB AND
TUZLA, RESPECTIVELY. WILL BE TRANSFERRED TO DEPLOYED FORCES UPON ARRIVAL.
(6) FOXX 27 ETTT: GROUND AND RAIL MOVEMENT TO THEATER FORECAST. WILL BE EXPANDED
TO INCLUDE THEATER LOGISTIC POINTS.
(7) FOXX 35 LERT: ADRIATIC AIR TO AIR REFUELING FORECAST
(8) FOXX 36 LERT: JOINT TASK FORCE PROVIDE PROMISE JOAF, ISSUED BY NEMOC.
DISCONTINUED MID-LATE DECEMBER. (COORDINATION REQUIRED BETWEEN EMC,
NAVEURMETOCCEN, AND JTFPP METOC OFFICERS.)
(9) MSME 31 LERT: ADRIATIC SEA FORECAST
(10) WWMM 30/31 LERT: MED, BLACK SEA, BALTIC HIGH WINDS AND SEAS FORECAST.
(11) FOXX15 ETAX: UNOFFICIAL WEATHER INFORMATION FOR TUZLA AND TASZAR.
B. THERE WILL BE TWO NEW BULLETINS COMPILED AND TRANSMITTED BY GMGO; NEITHER
HAVE YET BEEN ASSIGNED A NUMBER. ONE WILL BE A THEATER KQ TAF OBSERVATIONS
BULLETIN, THE OTHER A THERATER KQ TAF BULLETIN. BULLETIN HEADERS WILL BE PASSED
AS SOON AS THEY ARE AVAILABLE.
E-3
E-METOC LOI
C. BULLETINS AND DATA WILL BE ROUTINELY AVAILABLE ON THE FOLLOWING SYSTEMS: AWN
/ MIST, NODDS, AWDS, GMGO SATCOM SYSTEM (MATASSIS), STANDARD THEATER COMMAND
AND CONTROL ARCHITECTURE, MSE AND DSN 617 WS BBS (DUDS), 617 WS HOMEPAGE ON
INTERNET, 66 MI HOMEPAGE ON SIPRNET, NAVEURMETOCCEN ROTA BBS (JEMEDES), AND
NAVEURMETOCCEN ROTA HOMEPAGE ON SIPRENET.
5. REPORTS.
A. MANPOWER TRACKING. HQ USEUCOM, INCLUDING THE METOC BRANCH, IS TASKED TO
PROVIDE FORCE STATUS AND TRACKING INFORMATION TO CINCEUR
PAGE 04 RUSNMHS 2636 UNCLAS
AND THE JOINT STAFF FOR ANY DEPLOYMENT, ESPECIALLY THOSE WITH SEVERE MANNING
CAPS LIKE JE. TO ACCOMPLISH THIS TASKING, AND TO PREVENT DUPLICATION OF EFFORT AND
UNDER-UTILIZATION OF MANPOWER, WE NEED EACH COMPONENT HEADQUARTERS TO PROVIDE
A FORCE LIST OF ALL DEPLOYED PERSONNEL, AND THEIR DEPLOYED AND HOME STATION
LOCATIONS. WE REQUEST AN INITIAL, BASELINE REPORT NLT 1 JANUARY; THEN FOLLOW-UP
REPORTS (IF THERE ARE ANY CHANGES) ONCE PER MONTH NLT THE 10TH.
B. AFTER ACTION REPORTS AND TRIP REPORTS. THE US SMO WILL PROVIDE A REPORT TO HQ
USECOM J33-WE WITHIN 10 WORKING DAYS AFTER COMPLETING AN OFFICIAL SMO TDY/TAD
TRIP, AFTER BEING REPLACE, OR UPON HQ IFOR DEACTIVATION. THIS REPORT WILL COVER
SINIFICANT SMO ACTIVITIES, SIGNIFICANT METOC IMPACTS ON JE OPERATIONS, AREAS OF
EXCELLENCE, PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED/RESOLVED, SHORTFALLS, AND COORDINATION
PROBLEMS BETWEEN SMO AND SUBORDINATE METOC SUPPORT ELEMENTS.
C. METOC LESSONS LEARNED. ALL METOC OFFICERS WILL ENSURE ALL SIGNIFICANT LESSONS
LEARNED ARE ENTERED IN TO THE JOINT UNIFORMED
LESSONS LEARNED SYSTEM (JULLS).
D. SIGNIFICANT METOC IMPACTS ON OPERATIONS AND SHORTFALLS IN METOC OPERATIONS
AND SUPPORT MUST BE INCLUDED IN THE SUPPORTED UNIT’S SITUATION REPORTS (SITREPS).
PROVIDE INFORMATION COPIES TO THE SMO, WHO IN TURN WILL PROVIDE THEM TO HQ USECOM
METOC BRANCH (USCINEUR VAIHINGEN GE//ECJ33-WE//).//
E.1.2 METOC LOI Example 2
SUBJ: JTF-180 METEOROLGICAL AND OCEANOGRAPHIC (METOC) INITIAL CONCEPT OF

OPERATIONS
1. THIS RETRANSMISSION INCLUDES CORRECTED COPY 1, 151530Z SEP 94(S) AND SUPPLEMENT 1,
161514Z SEP 94. THE FOLLOWING REFERENCES STILL APPLY:
A. JOINT PUB 3-59, JOINT DOCTRINE FOR METEOROLOGICAL AND OCEANOGRAPHIC SUPPORT
(NOTAL).
B. CJCS INSTRUCTION 3810.01, METEOROLOGICAL AND OCEANOGRAPHIC SUPPORT (NOTAL).
C. CINCUSACOM MSG, 111551Z SEP 94, USACOM ANNEX H TO OPORD UPHOLD DEMOCRACY
(NOTAL)
D. CINCUSACOM MSG, 111915Z SEP 94, USACOM OPORD FOR UPHOLD DEMOCRACY (NOTAL)
E. CINCUSACOM MSG, 131656Z SEP 94, JOINT METOC OFFICER (JMO) DESIGNATION (NOTAL).
F. USCINCLANT OPORD 2410-86, WEATHER SUPPORT FOR JOINT OPERATIONS USLANTCOM
(NOTAL).
G. NAVOCENCOMINST 3140.1 SERIES, “US NAVY OCEANOGRAPHIC AND METEOROLOGICAL
SUPPORT MANUAL” (NOTAL).
H. AR 115-10/AFR 105-3, METEOROLICAL SUPPORT FOR THE US ARMY (NOTAL).
I. ACCR 105-1, AIR COMBAT COMMAND WEATHER SUPPORT (NOTAL).
J. AMCR 105-1, AIR MOBILITY COMMAND WEATHER SUPPORT REQUIREMENTS (NOTAL).
2. PURPOSE: PROVIDE THE CONCEPT OF OPERATION, INSTRUCTIONS AND PLANNING GUIDANCE

FOR OPERATION UPHOLD DEMOCRACY PARTICAPANTS.
E-4
E-METOC LOI
3. UPHOLD DEMOCRACY IS A CJCS-DIRECTED, US ATLANTIC COMMAND (USACOM) SPONSORED,

COMMANDER JOINT TASK FORCE 180 (CJTF-180) EXECUTED, JOINT OPERATION. THE PURPOSE IS
TO IMPLEMENT CONTINGENCY FORCES AND STAFF IN SUPPORT OF OTHER CINC’S
REQUIREMENTS; IMPLEMENT JTF, COMPONENT TASK FORCES (CTF) AND STAFFS IN PLANNING
AND CONDUCTING JOINT OPERATIONS USING CRISIS ACTION PROCEDURES AS WELL AS
CONDUCTING JOINT OPERATIONS. THE ENDSTATE WIL RESULT IN DEMOCRATICALLY ELECTED
PRESIDENT OF HAITI, JEAN BERTRAND ARISTIDE, BEING RETURNED AS THE HEAD OF STATE. 10
SEPTEMBER 1994 WAS DECLARED C-DAY. D-DAY IS YET TO BE DETERMINED.
4. METOC SUPPORT OBJECTIVES
A. IMPLEMENT JOINT METOC DOCTRINE CONCEPTS AS DOCUMENTED IN CJCS INSTRUCTION

3810-01 AND JOINT PUB 3-59; ENSURE INTEROPERABILITY AND ACHIEVE METOC OPERATIONAL
CONSISTENCY IN SUPPORT OF A JOINT FORCES TO PROVIDE UNITY OF EFFORT; AND ENSURE
TIMELINESS AND ACCURANCY OF METOC PRODUCTS, IN AN EFFORT TO ENSURE SAFETY OF
MILITARY PERSONNEL, AIRCRAFT, AND EQUIPMENT.
5. METOC SUPPORT. DEPLOYED METOC SUPPORT FORCE WILL CONSIST OF: (DEPLOYMENT
DATES ARE APPROXIMATE)
OFF/FCSTR/OBS SUPPORTED FORCE LOCATION DATE
A. 1/1/0 CJTF-180 (MAIN) FT. BRAGG C+3
B. 1/0/0 CTF-180 (FORWARD) MT WHITNEY/PAP C+4
C. 1/1/0 JFACC/AFFOR POPE AFB C+4
(1) 0/3/0 AIR OPS CTR (AOC) POPE AFB C+4
(2) 0/3/0 TANKER AIRLIFT CONTROL PORT-AU-PRINCE C+10
ELEMENT (TALCE)-1
(3) 0/2/1 TALCE-2 CAP HAITTEN C+10
(4) 1/2/0 AUGMENTATION ROSEY RDS PR C+9
(5) 1/2/0 TANKER SUPPORT HOMESTEAD, FL
(6) 0/3/0 MISSION SUPPORT MACDILL, FL C+6
D. ARFOR
(1) 1/2/2 82D ABN DIV PORT-AU-PRINCE C+6
(2) 0/2/2 82D AVN BDE HST THEN C+4
PEGASUS DZ
E. NAVFOR
(1) 6 CTF-185 MT WHITNEY C+4
(2) 12 CTF-185 EISENHOWER
(3) 12 CTF-185 WASP
(4) 12 CTF-185 AMERICA
F. 1/3/1 JOINT SPECIAL OPS GTMO THEN PAP C+3
TASK FORCE (JSOTF)
(1) 0/4/0 FORWARD OPERATING PORT-AU-PRINCE C+12
BASE (FOB)
(2) 1/2/0 AFSOC GTMO
(3) 0/1/0 AFSOC SAVANNAH C+2
(4) 1/0/0 4TH PSYCHOLGICAL PORT-AU-PRINCE C+10
OPS GP (POG)
G. 2/5/0 JMFU GTMO
6. CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS
A. JTF-180 JOINT METOC OFFICER (JMO). RESPONSIBLE TO THE JTF-180 FOR OVERALL METOC
SUPPORT AND FOR EXECUTING METOC SUPPORT FOR OPERATION UPHOLD DEMOCRACY. THE
JMO WILL TASK METOC CAPABILITIES AND COORDINATE REQUIRED SUPPORT. THE JTF-180 MAIN
JMO WILL REMAIN AT FT BRAGG. ANOTHER WEATHER OFFICER WILL SAIL ON THE USS MT
WHITNEY TO SUPPORT THE JTF-180 COMMANDER ON C+4. AT A DESIGNATED TIME PRIOR TO
THE D-DAY, THE COMMANDER JTF-180 WILL DEPLOY TO THE USS MT WHITNEY WHERE THE JTF-
E-5
E-METOC LOI
180 FORWARD WILL FORMALLY STAND-UP AND BE SUPPORTED BY THIS DEPLOYED METOC
OFFICER. IF THE CJTF GOES ASHORE, HIS METOC OFFICER WILL ALSO GO ASHORE.
O 171500Z SEP 94 PSN 557688L39
B. JFACC/AFFOR METOC OFFICER. RESPONSIBLE FOR METOC SUPPORT TO ALL SUBORDINATE AIR
FORCE UNITS. WILL COORDINATE REQUESTS FOR AIR REFUELING FORECASTS, DROP ZONE
FORECAST, AND FLIGHT WEATHER BRIEFINGS AND FORWARD TO THE JMO ANY PRODUCT
REQUESTS THAT THE AOC WEATHER CELL CAN NOT FULFILL.
(1) AIR FORCE WINGS FLYING FROM HOME STATION WILL BE SUPPORTED BY THEIR METOC
PERSONNEL USING ALL IN-PLACE WEATHER EQUIPEMENT.
(2) TALCE-1. ONE TANKER AIRLIFT CONTROL ELEMENT (TALCE) METOC TEAM WILL DEPLOY
WITH A SATELLITE RECEIVER, 9315TRT, AND ESK.
(3) TALCE-2. ANOTHER TALCE METOC TEAM WILL DPLOY WITH A SATELLITE RECEIVER,
9315TRT, AND ESK.
(4) AUGMENTATION. AN AUGMENTATION METOC TEAM WILL DEPLOY TO A FIXED LOCATION
(5) TANKER SUPPORT. A FOURTH METOC TEAM WIL DEPLOY TO A FIXED LOCATION.
(6) MISSION SUPPORT TEAM WILL DEPLOY TO A FIXED LOCATION.
C. ARFOR/82D AIRBORNE DIVISION METOC OFFICER. RESPONSIBLE FOR METOC SUPPORT TO THE
82D AIRBORNE DIVISION (82 ABN DIV0 AND SUBORDINATE UNITS. WILL COORDINATE REQUESTS
FOR ANY SPECIAL ARMY PRODUCTS AND FORWARD TO THE JMO ANY PRODUCT REQUESTS THAT
THE METOC TEAM AND SUBORDINATE UNITS CANNOT FULFILL. THE 82D ABN DIV METOC TEAM
WILL HAVE AN INMARSAT TERMINAL, PRC104 RADIO, PORTABLE SATELLITE AND BWK.
(1) 82 ABN BDE METOC OFFICER. RESPONSIBLE FOR METOC SUPPORT TO THE 82D AVIATION
BRIGADE (82D AVN BDE). THE 82 AVN BDE METOC TEAM WILL DEPLOY WITH A PRC104 RADIO,
ESK, AND BWK TO A STAGING BASE. THEN MOVE FORWARD INTO THE AO.
D. NAVFOR METOC OFFICER. RESPONSIBLE FOR METOC SUPPORT TO SPECIAL OPERATIONS

COMMAND ATLANTIC (SOCLANT) AND ALL SUBORDINATE SPECIAL OPERATIONS UNITS. WILL
COORDINATE REQUESTS FOR SPECIAL OPERATIONS METOC PRODUCTS AND FORWARD TO THE
JMO ANY PRODUCT REQUESTS THAT THE JSOTF METOC CELL CAN NOT FULFILL. THE JSOTF
METOC CELL WILL DEPLOY WITH AN ESK, GOLDWING, 9315TRT, WRAASE SATELLITE SYSTEM
AND BWK.
(1) AFSOC METOC OFFICER. RESPONSIBLE FOR METOC SUPPORT TO THE AIR FORCE SPECIAL
OPERATIONS COMMAND AND SUBORDINATE UNITS. WILL COORDINATE REQUESTS FOR SPECIAL
PRODUCTS AND FORWARD TO THE JSOTF METOC OFFICER ANY PRODUCT REQUEST THAT THE
AFSOC METOC CELL CAN NOT FULFILL.
(2) 3 SFG FOB METOC OFFICER. RESPONSIBLE FOR METOC SUPPORT TO THE 3 SFG FOB. WILL
DEPLOY WITH AN ESK, GOLDWING, 9315TRT, AND BELT WEATHER KIT.
(3) 4TH PSYCHOLOGICAL OPERATIONS GROUP (POG) METOC OFFICER. RESPONSIBLE FOR METOC
SUPPORT TO THE 4 POG FOR LEAFLET DROPS. WILL DPLOY WITH A MARWIN AND ESK.
F. JMFU. THE JOINT FORECAST METOC UNIT IS COMPOSED OF FORCES DRAWN FROM ALL
SERVICES TO ENSURE THAT QUALITY SERVICE-UNIQUE METOC SUPPORT IS PROVIDED.
PRODUCTS PROVIDED BY THE JMFU AR LISTED IN PARAGRAPH 9.
7. CENTRALIZED PRODUCTS
A. THE JOINT METOC FORECAST UNIT, ESTABLISHED AT GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA WILL ISSUE
THE JOINT OPERATIONS AREA FORECAST (JOAF) UNDER THE BULLETIN HEADERS FXXX3 JFCA,
FXXX4 JFCA, FXXX5 JFCA, FXXX6 JFCA. (AF PIDS 661, 662, 663, 664) THE JOAF IS THE OFFICIAL
JOINT FORECAST THAT CAN BE TAILORED FOR USE AT ALL LEVELS. THE JOAF FORECASTS WILL
BE IDENTIFIED BY THE HEADERS SWO33, SWO34, SWO35, AND SWO36, RESPECTIVELY. THEY WILL
BE ISSUED AT 0201Z, 0202Z. 0203Z, 0204Z (1401Z, 1402Z, 1403Z, 1404Z). THESE BULLETINS ARE
AVAILABLE VIA AUTODIN, ON THE AUTOMATED WEATHER NETWORK (AWN) / MIST, AND ON THE
AIR FORCE DIAL-IN SYSTEM (AFDIS). ON AFDIS HEADERS ARE: FXX1 (FOR SWO 34 AND SWO 35)
AND FXX8 (FOR SWO 33 AND SWO 36). THE JMFU FORECAST SHOULD BE CONSIDERED THE
OFFICIAL FORECAT AND IS TO BE USED BY ALL AGENCIES IN THE JOINT FORCE AREA OF
OPERATIONS. SIGNIFICANT DEVIATIONS FROM OFFICIAL FORECASTS BY SUBORDINATE
E-6
E-METOC LOI
ACTIVITES SHOULD BE COOORDINATED WITH THE JMO AND JMFU PRIOR TO ISSUANCE, EXCEPT
TO SATISFY AN IMMEDIATE SAFETY OF PERSONNEL OR EQUIPMENT. UNDER SUCH CONDITIONS,
COORDINATION WILL BE ACCOMPLISHED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. COORDINATION WILL ASSIST IN
THE ACCOMPLISHMENT OF THE “ONE THEATER/ONE FORECAST” CONCEPT. THE JOAF WILL BE
ISSUED TWICE DAILY AT 02Z AND 14Z. A SPECIFIC FORECAST FOR THE CITY OF PORT-AU-PRINCE
WILL BE INCLUDED. THIS FORECAST WILL ALSO BE USED AS THE OFFICIAL DROP ZONE
FORECAST IN THE EVENT A DROP OCCURS.
B. THE NAVFOR METOC OFFICER ABOARD THE USS MT WHITNEY WILL ISSUE A TAILORED
NAVAL OPERATIONAL AREA FORECAST (NOAF) THAT WILL BE SPECIFIC FOR SEA AND NAVAL
OPERATIONS. THE NOAF WILL BE IN AGREEMENT WITH HOAF EXCEPT THAT IT WILL BE MORE
SPECIFIC. THE HEADER FOR THE BULLETIN WILL BE FXXX3 XXXX (THE PRODUCT
IDENTIFICATION NUMBER FOR AF UNITS IS 3413). THIS BULLETIN WILL BE AVAILABLE VIA AWN /
MIST REQUEST, AFDIS (FXX2), AND AUTODIN. THE NOAF WIL BE ISSUED AT O4Z AND 16Z.
FORMAT WILL BE STANDARD.
C. THE TANKER AIRLIFT CONTROL CENTER (TACC) AT SCOTT AFB WILL ISSUE ALL AIR
REFUELING (AR) FORECAST UNDER THE FOLLOWING BULLETIN HEADER FXXX4 XXXX (PID 9096).
ONCE THE AFFOR IS IN PLACE, THEY WILL ASSUME THESE DUTIES FOR INTRA-THEATER
REQUIREMENTS AS SOON AS EQUIPMENT IS UP AND OPERATIONAL. SEE PARAGRAPH 9(D). THE
TACC WILL CONTINUE TO SUPPORT ALL STRATEGIC AIRLIFT IN AND OUT OF THE AOR. BOTH
BULLETINS ARE AVAILABLE VIA THE AWN / MSIT AND AFDIS (FXX2). FOR THE LOCATIONS AND
NAMES OF THE AR REFER TO 12 AF AIRSPACE CONTRAOL ORDER (ACO). FOR FURTHER
INFORMATION CONTACT THE TACC AT DSN 576-4794/5/6.
D. THE JFACC/AFFOR METOC SUPPORT CELL IN THE AOC WILL TAILOR THE JOAF AND OTHER
JMFU PRODUCTS TO PREPARE FORECAST GUIDANCE TO MEET SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL
INTRA-THEATER AIR OPERATIONS: NAVY, AIR FORCE, ARMY AND MARINES. THE BULLETIN
HEADER (AND PID FOR AIR FORCE UNITS) IS STILL TO BE DETERMINED). UNITS WILL NEED TO
REFER TO THE FRAG ORDER FOR SPECIFIC INFORMATION. THE A/R FORECAST IS NOT A
DUPLICATE OF THE FXXX4 JFCA BULLETIN ISSUED BY THE JMFU, OR THE FXXX4 XXXX ISSUED
BY THE TACC. THE JFCA/AFFOR METOC CELL A/R FORECAST WILL USE THE JMFU PRODUCT TO
PRODUCE A DETAILED A/R FORECAST FOR SPECIFIC MISSIONS.
E. THE NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER (NHC) , MIAMI , FL, ISSUES CYCLONE BULLETINS WHEN
STORMS ARE ACTIVE. BULLETIN HEADERS ARE AVAILABLE ON AFDIS )FXX5). NHC TROPICAL
CYCLONE BULLETINS ARE RE-TRANSMITTED FOR ALL DOD UNITS BY NAVLANTMETOCCEN
(NLMOC). NLMOC WILL ALSO ISSUE SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS TO SHIPS FOR EVASION OF
ADVERES WEATHER.
F. HAITI DMSP AND NOAA SATELLITE PICTURES CURENTLY LOADED IN AFDIS CAN BE PULLED
UP UNDET THE FOLLOWING HEADERS: F10I75, F10I75, F10I76, F11I76, N11I75 AN N11I76 FOR IR
PICTURES. F10V75, F11V75, F10V76, F11V76, N11V75 AND N11V76 FOR VISUAL PICTURES.
G. RE-LOCATABLE WINDOW MODEL (RWM): THESE PRODUCTS HAVE BEEN REPLACED BY MM5
MODEL OUTPUT PRODUCTS.
H. NAVLANTMETOCCEN NORFOLK IS THE COORDINATING METOC CENTER SUPPORTING THE

JMFU. NLMOC WILL ALSO PROVIDE QUALITY CONTROL AND COORDINATION FOR ALL OPAREA
FORECASTS.
I. ALL BULLETINS AND ANY SPECIAL PRODUCTS WILL BE AVAILABLE ON THW AWN / MIST AND
AFDIS. ACTION ADDRESSES OF THIS MESSAGE WILL ALSO RECEIVE THE JMFU FORECASTS
PRODUCTS VIA AUTODIN MESSAGE. THE BULLETINS AND SPECIAL PRODUCTS WILL ALSO BE
BROADCAST ON THE ELKHORN HIGH FREQUENCY RADIO BROADCAST (HFRB). ATTEMPTS TO
GET HEMESTEAD HFRB UP AND RUNNING ARE UNDER WAY IF OPERATIONAL.
E-7
E-METOC LOI
J. NAVLANTMETOCCEN WILL ALSO TRANSMIT DATA PACKAGES VIA THE NAVY HF FAX.
K. THE FOLLOWING KQ-IDENTIFIERS ARE ASSIGNED TO THE FOLLOWING K. THE FOLLOWING

KQ-IDENTIFIERS ARE ASSIGNED TO THE FOLLOWING UNITS:
JSOTF - KQGF TALCE -1 - KQUE
3 SFG FOB - KQGG TALCE-2 - KQUW
D MAIN - KQGD AVN BDE - KQGH
FT DRUM - KQGC
DEPLOYED UNITS THAT TAKE OBSERVATIONS WILL PASS THESE OBSERVATION USING THEIR
ASSIGNED KQ VIA COMM LINES OR HF BACK TO THE JMFU FOR INCLUSION IN THE AWN / MIST.
ONLY 2 GOLDWINGS ARE BEING DEPOLYED -- THE JSOTF AND FOB.
L. FLENUMMETOCCEN WILL PROVIDE DETAILED BATHYMENTRIC AND BEACH DATA AS

CENTERED ON OPAREA. FILDS WILL BE AVAILABLE VIA NITES AND NODDS.
M. NAVOCEANO WILL PROVIDE DETAILED BATHYMETRIC AND BEACH DATA AS REQUIRED.

REQUEST SHOULD BE COORDINATED THROUGH NLMOC.
8. REPORTS. SEND SITUATION REPORTS OF PERSONNEL AND EQUIPMENT STATISTIC TO THE JTF-
180 METOC OFFICER, LT SHANNON, ABOARD THE USS MT WHITNEY. HE WILL IN TURN COMPILE
THE INFORMATION FOR THE FTF COMMANDER AND PASS THE INFOR BACK TO THE JMO FOR
INCULSION IN JMO SITREP TO USACOM.. IF YOU CAN NOT REACH THE USS MT WHITNEY,
ATTEMPT TO PASS THE INFO TO THE JMFU WHO WILL RELAY IT TO THE JMO.
9. SECURITY. ALL PARTCIPANTS MUST ADHERE TO SOUND SECURITY PRACTICES. FAILURE TO

DO SO COULD RESULT IN CASUALTIES. PROTECT ALL CLASIFIED MATERIAL. USE COVERSHEETS
AND MARK OR STAMP ALL CLASSIFIED. DO NOT TALK AROUND CLASSIFIED AND USE THE STU-
III AT ALL TIMES. REMEMBER, THIS IS NOT AN EXCERCISE AND LIVES DEPEND ON OUR
KNOWLEDGE AND SAFEGUARD OF CLASSIFIED INFORMATION.
10. SAFETY. IT GOES WITHOUT SAYING THAT THE ENVIRONMENT COULD BE EXTREMELY
DANGEROUS. LEARN ABOUT YOUR SURROUNDINGS IN DAY AND NIGHT. DO NOT TAKE
CHANCES AND BE ALERT TO ALL KINDS OF SITUATIONS.
11. FOLLOW-ON OPERATIONS. IN THE EVENT THE SITUATION BECOMES SUCH THAT THE
ENVIRONMENT BECOMES PERMISSIVE, USACOM OPORDS 2370-95 AND 2375-95 WILL NOT BE
EXECUTED, AND THE 82D AIRBORNE DIVISION WILL NOT FORCIBLY ENTER. INSTEAD, USACOM
OPORD 2380-95 (JTF-190 WILL BE EXECUTED AND THE 10TH MOUNTAIN DIVISION WILL ENTER
HAITI. FT DRUM WEATHER PERSONNEL (2/10/6) WILL SUPPORT THE 10TH MTN DIV COMMANDING
GENERAL WHO BECOMES THE JTF-190 COMMANDER. IN THE EVENT 2375-95 (JTF-180) DOES
EXECUTE, THE 10TH MTN DIV WILL FOLLOW0ON AN DWILL RECEIVE THE HANDOFF FROM THE
JTF-180 COMANDING GENERAL NLT D+14. THE JTF-180 METOC OFFICER AND 82D ABN AND AVN
BDE METOC PERSONNEL WILL DEPART WITH THEIR CUSTOMERS. FT DRUM METOC PERSONNEL
WILL FORM THE NEW JTF AND PROVIDE SUPPORT WHER NECESSARY. SOF AND AF METOC
FORCES WILL REMAIN UNTIL MISSIONS ARE COMPLETE.
12. JMO SENDS/LTC STANLEY
E-8
F-METOC Briefing Slides
Appendix F - METOC Briefing Slides and Tools
These are examples of previously used briefing slides and tools successfully used in
various exercises. These are in predominately in Power Point and Excel . As future
operations unfold, other formats like GIS based information systems may be used.
Flexibility and working closely with the Information Management (IM) personnel is
critical to make sure that METOC information is widely available to those individuals
that must have it.
Caution! Take care to ensure the definitions of red, yellow, and green are widely
understood and properly annotated on all briefing packages. Also remember that
graphics take a lot of bandwidth to transmit—beware of communications limitations.
F.1 Joint Task Force Headquarters Command Brief Slides

These are examples of some slides used for briefing the JTF Commander and Staff on
overall METOC conditions.
WEATHER IMPACTS ON OPERATIONS

VALID: 27/03Z-28/03Z Created 26/23Z
03 05 07 09 11 13 15 17 19 21 23 01 03
LOGISTICS
AIR OPS TS C V
LAND OPS TF V
MARITIME OPS HS HS
SPACE OPS C
TROPICAL TROPICAL STORM
SIG IMPACT SOME IMPACT NO IMPACT

C CLOUDS/CEILINGS TF TRAFFICABILITY
HI HEAT INDEX TS THUNDERSTORMS
HS SEA STATE V VISIBILITY
HP HEAVY PRECIP W WINDS
F-1
WEATHER IMPACTS ON OPERATIONS

VALID: 28/0300Z - 30/0300Z Created 26/2300Z
24HR 48HR 72HR
LOGISTICS
AIR OPERATIONS
LAND OPERATIONS
MARITIME OPERATIONS
SPACE OPERATIONS
NO IMPACT
FRIENDLY FORCES
SOME IMPACT
OPPOSING FORCES SIG IMPACT
JOINT OPERATIONAL AREA

5-DAY WEATHER OUTLOOK
F Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
O Nov 17 Nov 18 Nov 19 Nov 20 Nov 21
R
E
C
A
S
T
HI: 84F HI: 86F HI: 85F HI: 86F HI: 86 F
TEMPS
LO: 74F LO: 76F LO: 76F LO: 78F LO: 78F
LESS THAN LESS THAN LESS THAN LESS THAN LESS THAN
WINDS
10KTS 10KTS 10KTS 10KTS 10KTS
080-100BKN
SKY/VIS/WX WITH PERIODS OF PM: 030-080BKN PM: 030-080BKN PM: 100-120BKN PM: 100-120BKN
CONDITIONS IN TSTMS IN TSTMS IN TSTMS IN TSTMS
NO CEILINGS
4-6 NM SHWRS
AIRBORNE
CAS OPS
RECON
HELO OPS
SEA COND 1-3 FT 1-3FT 1-2FT 1-3FT 1-3FT
F-2
F.1.1 Joint Task Force Headquarters Staff Mission Planning
This is an example of an Excel Spreadsheet tool useful for staff planners.
MISSION OPERATION EVOLUTION PARAMETER MARGINAL SEVERE T00 T12 T24 T36 T48 T60
GROUND LAND NBC CHEMICAL WIND 5-10KTS >10KTS
GROUND LAND NBC CHEMICAL WIND WIND FROM ENEMY
GROUND LAND NBC CHEMICAL PRECIPITATION LGT PRECIP MDT PRECIP
GROUND LAND NBC CHEMICAL CEILING <5000
GROUND LAND NBC CHEMICAL LIGHTING N/A LTNG<3.1NM
GROUND LAND NBC CHEMICAL HUMIDITY 30%<HUM60% <30%
GROUND LAND NBC SMOKE WIND 5-18 KT >18KTS
GROUND LAND NBS SMOKE TEMPERATURE >120F
GROUND LAND NBS SMOKE PRECIPITATION MDT HEAVY
GROUND LAND NBC SMOKE VISIBILITY 400M-1000M <400M
GROUND LAND NBC SMOKE INVERSION INVERSION PRESENT
GROUND LAND PERSONNEL TEMPERATURE neg 15F to -20F < neg 15F
GROUND LAND PERSONNEL TEMPERATURE >95F
GROUND LAND PERSONNEL PRECIPITATION MODERATE (0.1- HEAVY (.0.3 in/hr)
GROUND AIRBORNE PERSONNEL WIND 13-15 KT >18KTS
GROUND AIRBORNE PERSONNEL PRECIPITATION LGT PRECIP MDT PRECIP
GROUND HELO/REFUELING FARP THUNDERSTORMS WITHIN 5-25NM WINTHIN 5NM
GROUND LAND ARMOR GUN SIGHTING VISIBILITY 1000M-2000M <1000M
GROUND AIRBORNE PARADROP SURFACE WIND 13-18 KT > 18 KT
GROUND AIRBORNE ARTILLERY CEILING 600-1499FT <600FT
GROUND AIRBORNE ARTILLERY VISIBILITY 1000-2999M <1000M
GROUND AIRBORNE ARTILLERY WIND 30-35 KT >35 KT
GROUND AIRBORNE ARTILLERY PRECIPITATION MDT HEAVY
GROUND AIRBORNE AIR DEFENSE CEILING 2500-4999FT <2500FT
GROUND AIRBORNE AIR DEFENSE VISIBILITY <5000M
GROUND AIRBORNE AIR DEFENSE TEMPERATURE >120F
GROUND AIRBORNE AIR DEFENSE WIND 20-30 KT >30KT
F.2 JTF / Components (format applicable to all)
F-3
F.3 JFACC
METOC IMPACTS
Valid: 281000Z JUL 96
28 JULY 29 JULY 30 JULY
OCA/DCA C Ceiling
P Precipitation
STRIKE I Icing
F Fog/Haze
STRIKE SUP V Visibility
T Temperature
TS Thundertorm
RECCE WA Winds Aloft
W Surface Winds
CAS S Seas
SF Surf
SOF
LOG
NO IMPACT
SOME IMPACT
MAJOR IMPACT
SR/SS 0635/1939E 0635/1939E 0636/1938E

MR/MS 1800/0431E 1857/0535E 1952/0641E
MOON ILLUM 92 % 97 % 100 %
BEDDOWN FIELD CONDITIONS

24 Hour Forecast Predominant Conditions
CECIL FIELD MACDILL
JACKSONVILLE OPA LOCKA
EGLIN HOMESTEAD
PATRICK POPE
KEY WEST BARKSDALE
VFR CONDITIONS
IFR CONDITIONS
BELOW FIELD MINS
ELECTRO-OPTICS DATA UPDATE

Location: Target:
Absolute Humidity: 19 g/m3

4 km TRANS: 77%
F-4
F.4 JFMCC / NAVFOR / MARFOR (format applicable to all)
MARITIME IMPACT
00 02 04 06 08 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24
Weax/Climo
Winds/Seas/Swell
Tides/Surf/MSI
Acoustics
EM Propagation
-Evap. Duct
-Surface Duct
-Elevated Layers
HF Comms
Sat Comms
Sig Impact Some Impact No Impact
JFMCC (METOC)
From 242000ZJUL96
24th 25th 26th

NAVIGATION
C Ceiling
FLIGHT OPS P Precipitaation
I Icing
HELO OPS w w
F Fog/Haze
STRIKE V Visibility
T Temperature
AMPHIBIOUS 2.7 2.4 1.3 TS Thunderstorm
MINE OPS WA Winds Aloft
W Surface Winds
USW ACOU S Seas
USW N/ACOU s s s SF Surf
RADAR PROP
NO IMPACT
MARGINAL
SR/SS 0634/1941 0634/1941 0634/1941
MR/MS 1459/---- 1559/0143 1700/0234 EXCEEDS LIMITS
OR VERY POOR
F-5
F.5 Supported CINC
EgyptAir Salvage Operations: METOC Impacts UNCLAS
Current Operations Update

Forecast 13 Nov 14 Nov
ISOLD
Sky: PM
Winds: SE 10 NE 10-15 S10 SW 15

Visibility: UNR/2-4 in rain unrestricted
Seas: 3’-5’ bcmg 4’-6’ 5’-7’ 7’-9’
Air temp (max/min): 37 / 52 40 / 54
SST: 56º F
Diving Operations: Sidescan Sonar Operations:

Submersible Operations:
UNCLAS
F-6
F-7
F-8
F.6 Climatology
C E ILIN GS 15 ,0 00 FE E T A ND BE LO W
% O F TIM E
FA V OR AB LE WE A TH E R FR OM 18 00 Z - 030 0Z A ND 07 00 Z - 1 10 0Z
F-9
G-Reserve METOC Personnel
Appendix G - Reserve METOC Personnel
G.1 Air Force

G.1.1 Air National Guard (ANG).
The Air National Guard weather flight program supports Army, Army Reserve (USAR), ANG,
and AF Reserve Component (AFRC) units with a full range of meteorological services. Thirty-
three weather flights can deploy with their customers when required. Each flight has a full-time
Meteorological Technician (MT) to run the unit during the week. Guard units have unique
capabilities to deploy, operate, and communicate in tactical environments, especially during and
after natural disasters. Taskings for ANG personnel should be directed to:Air Combat Command
(ACC), ACC/XOWO, Langley AFB, VA (DSN 574-8445/8441, fax 574-8455). The ANG
functional manager is ANG/DOOSW, located at the Air National Guard Readiness Center,
Andrews AFB MD (DSN 327-3286/3256, fax 327-2833). A website for the National Guard
Bureau is available at http://www.ngb.dtic.mil; Air National Guard websites are available at
http://www.ang.af.mil and http://ga14.af.pentagon.smil.mil/ang/. The Air National Guard
Weather Flight program website, http://airguard.ang.af.mil/DO/DOO/doos/weather/doosw.htm,
has information about the ANG weather program.
G.1.2 Air Force Reserve (AFRES).
There are two components of AFRES that include METOC resources.
• The AFRES Individual Mobilization Augmentee (IMA) program supports gaining units for
backfill and wartime mission needs. Individuals can volunteer for duty assignments, or be
ordered to duty during a mobilization. IMAs are on twenty-four hour notice for call-up.
Typical non-mobilization taskings include Operational Readiness Inspections (ORIs),
backfill at a weather unit, and/or any active duty shortfall that creates a requirement.
Reservists are normally permitted to be on extended active duty (EAD) 179 days each fiscal
year. Information on the Air Force Reserve is available at http://www.afrc.af.mil.
• There are also several AFRES weather units, supplemented by civilian/contractor workers,
that provide full aviation meteorological support to AFRES flying customers. Air Reserve
bases with weather units include Dobbins (GA), Westover (MA), March (CA), Grissom
(NY), and Homestead (FL).
• Additionally many staffs (both Army and Air Force) have AFRES METOC personnel
assigned to fulfill a variety of reserve tasks.
• For availability and/or tasking of AFRES resources, contact the METOC office of the
appropriate AF Major Command:
G-1
- Air Combat Command (ACC), ACC/XOW, Langley AFB, VA (DSN 574-8452/8441, fax
574-8455)
- Air Mobility Command (AMC), AMC/DOW, Scott AFB, IL (DSN 576-4337/2922/5082,

fax 576-5801)
- Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC), AFSOC/DOOW, Hurlburt Field, FL

(DSN 579-5640, fax 579-2243)
G.2 Navy
• Navy METOC reservists include commissioned officers designated as 1805 (Restricted

Line), Limited Duty Officers designated as 6465, and Aerographer’s Mates. Management of
Navy Reserve METOC Officers falls under the cognizance of either NAVAIRRESFOR or
NAVSURFRESFOR.
• The Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command manages the NAVAIRESFOR

METOC personnel. Those officers and enlisted selected reservists (SELRES) drill in 12
Naval METOC Reserve Activities (NMORAs) that provide contributory support to gaining
commands within the Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command. A typical NMORA
consists of 3 -5 officers and 20 -25 enlisted members.
• The NAVSURFRESFOR METOC personnel are typically assigned to staffs and other units
that the Surface Fleet arm of the Navy Reserves manages. They are not managed by the
Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command and requests for any personnel assigned in
one of those units should go to the appropriate Navy and Marine Corps Reserve Center.
• Qualified observers and forecasters can augment shipboard personnel during underway
(deployed) periods, or serve at a Joint METOC Forecast Unit (JMFU) during a joint exercise
or operation. To inquire about qualified augmentees for a specific exercise, the Senior
METOC Officer can contact CNMOC (Code N434) at:
Commander, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command

Attn: Code N434
1020 Balch Blvd.
Stennis Space Center, MS 39529-5005
DSN 485-4531
• Information on the Naval Reserve is available at http://www.navres.navy.mil/navresfor/.
G-2
G.3 Joint Reserve Units

The Joint Reserve Unit (JRU) at the U.S. Joint Forces Command consists of 600+ reservists in
USAF, Navy, Army, Coast Guard and National Guard / Air Guard components. METOC
reservists assigned to the USJFCOM JRU help the SMO support the CINC’s staff, assisting with
daily operations and during USJFCOM training exercises. USJFCOM reservists could deploy to
support joint training events. Information is available on NIPRNET at
http://137.246.33.101/jru/njru/index.html.
G-3
H-References
Appendix H - References
H.1 Joint
CJCSI 3810.01A Joint METOC Operations
CJCSM 3122.01, “Joint Operation Planning and Execution System, Vol. I,
Planning Policies and Procedures”, 14 July 2000.
CJCSM 3122.02() “Joint Operation Planning and Execution System, Vol. III
Crisis Action Time-Phased Force and Deployment Data
Development and Deployment Execution”, 17 July 2000
CJCJM 3122.03, Joint Operation Planning and Execution System Vol. II,
Planning Formats and Guidance”, 6 September 2000.
CJCSM 3500.05 “Joint Task Force Headquarters Master Training Guide”,
15 April 1997.
215J Develop Ops Estimate--METOC Support Ops
431 Control METOC Operations
JFSC Publication 1 Joint Staff Officer’s Guide, 2000
Joint Pub 1 “Joint Warfare of the Armed Forces of the United
States”,14 November 2000.
Joint Pub 1-02 “Department of Defense, Dictionary of Military and
Associated Terms” 12 April 2001
Joint Pub 2-01.3, “Joint Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Joint
Intelligence Preparation of the Battlespace”, 24 May 2000.
Joint Pub 3-33 “Joint Force Capabilities”, 13 October 1999.
Joint Pub 3-59 “Joint Doctrine, Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for
meteorological and Ocanographic Operations”, 23 march
1999.
Joint Pub 4-05 “Joint Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Manpower
Mobilization and Demobilization Operations: Reserve
Component (RC) Callup”, 11 November 1998,
Joint Pub 5-0, “Doctrine for Planning Joint Operations”, 13 April 1995.
Joint Pub 5-0.1, “Joint Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures
for Joint Campaign Planning. (Draft)”
Joint Pub 5-00.2, “Joint Task Force Planning Guidance and Procedures”, 13
January 1999.
Joint Pub 6-0 “Doctrine for C4 Systems Support to Joint Operations”, 30
May 1995.
H.2 Air Force

AFPD15-1 Atmospheric and Space Environmental Support
AFMAN15-125 Weather Station Operations
AFI15-128 Aerospace Weather Operations- Roles and Responsibilities
AFMAN15-129 Aerospace Weather Operations- Processes and Procedures
H-1
H-References
AFMAN15-135 Combat Weather Team Operations

AFJI15-157 Weather Support for the U.S. Army
AFCCC/TN 95/005 Capabilities, Products and Services of the AFCCC
AFCCC/TN 96-001 Directory of Climatic Databases
ACCI 15-150 ACC Weather Operations
ACCM 15-151 ACC Weather Readiness
AMCI 10-404 Air Mobility Element/Tanker Task Force/
Tanker Airlift Control Element
AMCI 10-406 Tanker Task Force/Tanker Airlift Control Element
617 WSR 16-2 Weather Support
617 WSP 16-X Weather Communications
H.3 Army
AR 115-10/AFJI 15-157 Meteorological Support for the U.S. Army
FM 1-230 Meteorology for Army Aviators
FM 3-3 Chemical Downwind Messages
FM 6-15 Field Artillery Meteorology
FM 34-81/AFJPM 15-127 Weather Support to Army Operations
FM 34-81-1 Battlefield Weather Effects
FM 34-130 Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield (IPB)
FM 100-5 Operations
FM 100-16 Support Operations: EAC
FM 101-5 Staff Organization and Operations
H.4 Navy
RP 1 Environmental Effects on Naval Weapons Systems and
Naval Warfare
RP 33 Fleet Oceanographic and Acoustic Reference Manual
RP 50 Catalog of Classified Naval Oceanographic Office
Publications
RP 51 Catalog of Naval Oceanographic Office Unclassified
Publications
OPNAVINST 3710.7 Aviation Weather Briefs
NAVOCEANOINST 3140 METOC Products Available From Warfighting Support
Center Classified Services Branch
FNMOD Asheville (3146) Climatology Program Services and Publications
CNMOCINST 3140.1() U.S. Navy Oceanographic and Meteorological Support
System Manual
H-2
H-References
H.5 Marine Corps

NAVAIR 19-25-158 Meteorological Mobile Facility
MCWP 3-35.7 Marine Corps Warfighting Publication; MAGTF
Meteorological and Oceanographic Support
H.6 SOF
USSOCOM M 115-2 METOC Support to SOF Operations
USSOCOM M 525-6 Critical METOC Thresholds for SOF Operations
H-3
I - Definitions
Appendix I - Definitions
adverse weather — Weather in which plan and conduct operations. 2. In naval
military operations are generally usage, a predefined area of enemy
restricted or impeded. See also marginal terrain for which supporting ships are
weather. responsible for covering by fire on
known targets or targets of opportunity
aerospace — Of, or pertaining to, and by observation. Also called AOR.
Earth’s envelope of atmosphere and the
space above it; two separate entities combatant command (command
considered as a single realm for activity authority) — Nontransferable command
in launching, guidance, and control of authority established by title 10 (“Armed
vehicles that will travel in both entities. Forces”), United States Code, section
164, exercised only by commanders of
afterwinds — Wind currents set up in unified or specified combatant
the vicinity of a nuclear explosion commands unless otherwise directed by
directed toward the burst center, the President or the Secretary of
resulting from operation. updraft Defense. Combatant command
accompanying the rise of the fireball. (command authority) cannot be
delegated and is the authority of a
aerospace expeditionary task force — combatant commander to perform those
A deployed numbered air force (NAF) or functions of command over assigned
command echelon immediately forces involving organizing and
subordinate to a NAF provided as the employing commands and forces,
US Air Force component command assigning tasks, designating objectives,
committed to a joint operation. Also and giving authoritative direction over
called AETF. See also air all aspects of military operations, joint
expeditionary force; air expeditionary training, and logistics necessary to
wing. (JP 3-33) accomplish the missions assigned to the
command. Combatant command
air tasking order — A method used to (command authority) should be
task and disseminate to components, exercised through the commanders of
subordinate units, and command and subordinate organizations. Normally
control agencies projected sorties, this authority is exercised through
capabilities and/or forces to targets and subordinate joint force commanders and
specific missions. Normally provides Service and/or functional component
specific instructions to include call signs, commanders. Combatant command
targets, controlling agencies, etc., as well (command authority) provides full
as general instructions. Also called authority to organize and employ
ATO. commands and forces as the combatant
commander considers necessary to
area of responsibility — 1. The accomplish assigned missions.
geographical area associated with a Operational control is inherent in
combatant command within which a combatant command (command
combatant commander has authority to authority). Also called COCOM.
I-1
I - Definitions
authoritative; as such, joint doctrine will

combatant commander — A be followed except when, in the
commander in chief of one of the unified judgment of the commander, exceptional
or specified combatant commands circumstances dictate otherwise. It will
established by the President. Also called be promulgated by or for the Chairman
CINC. of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, in
coordination with the combatant
commander — The commander within commands and Services.
a unified command, subordinate unified
command, or joint task force responsible joint force air component commander
to the establishing commander for — The joint force air component
making recommendations on the proper commander derives authority from the
employment of maritime forces and joint force commander who has the
assets, planning and coordinating authority to exercise operational control,
maritime operations, or accomplishing assign missions, direct coordination
such operational missions as may be among subordinate commanders,
assigned. redirect and organize forces to ensure
unity of effort in the accomplishment of
fleet — An organization of ships, the overall mission. The joint force
aircraft, Marine forces, and shore-based commander will normally designate a
fleet activities all under the command of joint force air component commander.
a commander or commander in chief The joint force air component
who may exercise operational as well as commander’s responsibilities will be
administrative control. See also major assigned by the joint force commander
fleet; numbered fleet. (normally these would include, but not
be limited to, planning, coordination,
integrated priority list — A list of a allocation, and tasking based on the joint
combatant commander’s highest priority force commander’s apportionment
requirements, prioritized across Service decision). Using the joint force
and functional lines, defining shortfalls commander’s guidance and authority,
in key programs that, in the judgment of and in coordination with other Service
the combatant commander, adversely component commanders and other
affect the capability of the combatant assigned or supporting commanders, the
commander’s forces to accomplish their joint force air component commander
assigned mission. The integrated will recommend to the joint force
priority list provides the combatant commander apportionment of air sorties
commander’s recommendations for to various missions or geographic areas.
programming funds in the planning, Also called JFACC.
programming, and budgeting system
process. Also called IPL. joint force commander — A general
term applied to a combatant commander,
joint doctrine — Fundamental subunified commander, or joint task
principles that guide the employment of force commander authorized to exercise
forces of two or more Military combatant command (command
Departments in coordinated action authority) or operational control over a
toward a common objective. It is joint force. Also called JFC.
I-2
I - Definitions
support to a joint force commander. Also

joint force land component called JMO.
commander — The commander within
a unified command, subordinate unified joint force special operations
command, or joint task force responsible component commander — The
to the establishing commander for commander within a unified command,
making recommendations on the proper subordinate unified command, or joint
employment of land forces, planning and task force responsible to the establishing
coordinating land operations, or commander for making
accomplishing such operational missions recommendations on the proper
as may be assigned. The joint force land employment of special operations forces
component commander is given the and assets, planning and coordinating
authority necessary to accomplish special operations, or accomplishing
missions and tasks assigned by the such operational missions as may be
establishing commander. The joint force assigned. The joint force special
land component commander will operations component commander is
normally be the commander with the given the authority necessary to
preponderance of land forces and the accomplish missions and tasks assigned
requisite command and control by the establishing commander. The
capabilities. Also called JFLCC. joint force special operations component
commander will normally be the
joint force maritime component - The commander with the preponderance of
commander within a unified command, special operations forces and the
subordinate unified command, or joint requisite command and control
task force responsible to the establishing capabilities. Also called JFSOCC.
commander for making
recommendations on the proper joint meteorological and
employment of maritime forces and oceanographic forecast unit — An
assets, planning and coordinating organization consisting of a jointly
maritime operations, or accomplishing supported collective of meteorological
such operational missions as may be and oceanographic personnel and
assigned. The joint force maritime equipment formed to provide
component commander is given the meteorological and oceanographic
authority necessary to accomplish support to the joint force commander.
missions and tasks assigned by the Also called JMFU.
establishing commander. The joint force
maritime component commander will joint mission-essential task — A
normally be the commander with the mission task selected by a joint force
preponderance of maritime forces and commander deemed essential to mission
the requisite command and control accomplishment and defined using the
capabilities. Also called JFMCC. common language of the universal joint
task list in terms of task, condition, and
joint force meteorological and standard. Also called JMET.
oceanographic officer — Officer
designated JFC to provide direct joint operations — A general term to
meteorological and oceanographic describe military actions conducted by
I-3
I - Definitions
joint forces or by Service forces in for planning, monitoring, and guiding

relationships (e.g., support, coordinating the execution of the commander’s
authority) which, of themselves, do not decisions. Also called JOC.
create joint forces.
joint operations area forecast (JOAF)
Joint Operation Planning and provides the official forecast for
Execution System — A continuously operational planning and should be used
evolving system that is being developed by all operational planners in the joint
through the integration and enhancement operational area. It provides a discussion
of earlier planning and execution and rationale for the expected METOC
systems: Joint Operations Planning conditions that impact joint force
System and Joint Deployment System. It operations during the forecast period.
provides the foundation for conventional The JMO is the final authority for the
command and control by national- and JOAF.
theater-level commanders and their
staffs. It is designed to satisfy their joint special operations task force —
information needs in the conduct of joint A joint task force composed of special
planning and operations. Joint Operation operations units from more than one
Planning and Execution System (JOPES) Service, formed to carry out a specific
includes joint operation planning special operation or prosecute special
policies, procedures, and reporting operations in support of a theater
structures supported by communications campaign or other operations. The joint
and automated data processing systems. special operations task force may have
JOPES is used to monitor, plan, and conventional non-special operations
execute mobilization, deployment, units assigned or attached to support the
employment, and sustainment activities conduct of specific missions. Also called
associated with joint operations. Also JSOTF.
called JOPES
joint task force — A joint force that is
joint operations area — An area of constituted and so designated by the
land, sea, and airspace, defined by a Secretary of Defense, a combatant
geographic combatant commander or commander, a subunified commander, or
subordinate unified commander, in an existing joint task force commander.
which a joint force commander Also called JTF.
(normally a joint task force commander)
conducts military operations to joint tactics, techniques, and
accomplish a specific mission. Joint procedures — The actions and methods
operations areas are particularly useful that implement joint doctrine and
when operations are limited in scope and describe how forces will be employed in
geographic area or when operations are joint operations. They are authoritative;
to be conducted on the boundaries as such, joint tactics, techniques, and
between theaters. Also called JOA. procedures will be followed except
when, in the judgment of the
joint operations center — A jointly commander, exceptional circumstances
manned facility of a joint force dictate otherwise. They will be
commander’s headquarters established promulgated by the Chairman of the
I-4
I - Definitions
Joint Chiefs of Staff, in coordination Combat Climatology Center, Fleet

with the combatant commands and Numerical METOC Center Detachment,
Services. Also called JTTP. Asheville, North Carolina, and the Air
Force and Navy theater and/or regional
Marine expeditionary force — The METOC production activities. Also
largest Marine air-ground task force called MFC.
(MAGTF) and the Marine Corps
principal warfighting organization, operational control — Transferable
particularly for larger crises or command authority that may be
contingencies. It is task-organized exercised by commanders at any echelon
around a permanent command element at or below the level of combatant
and normally contains one or more command. Operational control is
Marine divisions, Marine aircraft wings, inherent in combatant command
and Marine force service support groups. (command authority). Operational
The Marine expeditionary force is control may be delegated and is the
capable of missions across the range of authority to perform those functions of
military operations, including command over subordinate forces
amphibious assault and sustained involving organizing and employing
operations ashore in any environment. It commands and forces, assigning tasks,
can operate from a sea base, a land base, designating objectives, and giving
or both. Also called MEF. authoritative direction necessary to
accomplish the mission. Operational
Marine expeditionary unit — A control includes authoritative direction
Marine air-ground task force (MAGTF) over all aspects of military operations
that is constructed around an infantry and joint training necessary to
battalion reinforced, a helicopter accomplish missions assigned to the
squadron reinforced, and a task- command. Operational control should be
organized combat service support exercised through the commanders of
element. It normally fulfills Marine subordinate organizations. Normally
Corps forward sea-based deployment this authority is exercised through
requirements. The Marine expeditionary subordinate joint force commanders and
unit provides an immediate reaction Service and/or functional component
capability for crisis response and is commanders. Operational control
capable of limited combat operations. normally provides full authority to
Also called MEU. organize all levels of war.
Meteorological and Oceanographic operational task — USN command

Forecast Center — The collective of and control tasking message, more
electronically connected, shore-based commonly referred to as OPTASKs,
meteorological and oceanographic outlining a commander’s instructions to
(METOC) production facilities that subordinate units. Usually includes TTP
includes centers such as Air Force as well as any reporting instructions.
Weather Agency, Navy Fleet Numerical These taskings are normally reserved for
METOC Center, 55th Space Weather a FleetCINC to all Fleet units (known as
Squadron, Naval Oceanographic Office, Navywide OPTASKs) or a Battle Group
Warfighting Support Center, Air Force Commander to subordinate units.
I-5
I - Definitions
to be deployed; d. Movement data

senior meteorological and associated with deploying forces; e.
oceanographic officer — Estimates of non-unit-related addressee
Meteorological and oceanographic or responsible relay agency cargo and
officer responsible for assisting the personnel movements to be conducted
combatant commander and staff in concurrently with the deployment of
developing and executing operational forces; and f. Estimate of transportation
meteorological and oceanographic requirements that must be fulfilled by
service concepts in support of a common-user lift resources as well as
designated joint force. Also called SMO. those requirements that can be fulfilled
by assigned or attached transportation
time-phased force and deployment resources. Also called TPFDD.
data — The Joint Operation Planning
and Execution System database portion Universal Joint Task List — A menu
of an operation plan; it contains time- of capabilities (mission-derived tasks
phased force data, non-unit-related cargo with associated conditions and
and personnel data, and movement data standards, i.e., the tools) that may be
for the operation plan, including the selected by a joint force commander to
following: a. In-place units; b. Units to accomplish the assigned mission. Once
be deployed to support the operation identified as essential to mission
plan with a priority indicating the accomplishment, the tasks are reflected
desired sequence for their arrival at the within the command joint mission
port of debarkation; c. Routing of forces essential task list. Also called UJTL.
I-6
K-Acronyms and Abbreviations
Appendix K - Acronyms and Abbreviations
A/C AIRCRAFT
AAR AFTER ACTION REPORT
ABN AIRBORNE
ACC AIR COMBAT COMMAND
ACC AIR COMPONENT COMMANDER
ACE AVIATION COMBAT ELEMENT
ACR ARMORED CAVALRY REGIMENT
ADDU ADDITIONAL DUTY
ADP AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING
AEF AEROSPACE EXPEDITIONARY FORCE
AEG AEROSPACE EXPEDTIONARY GROUP
AES AEROSPACE EXPEDITIONARY SQUADRON
AEW AEROSPACE EXPEDITIONARY WING
ASETF AEROSPACE EXPEDITIONARY TASK FORCE
AFCCC AIR FORCE COMBAT CLIMATOLOGY CENTER
AFDIS AIR FORCE DIAL-IN SYSTEM (discontinued)
AFFOR AIR FORCE FORCES
AFGWC AIR FORCE GLOBAL WEATHER CENTRAL (now AFWA)
AFI AIR FORCE INSTRUCTION
AFMAN AIR FORCE MANUAL
AFMSS AIR FORCE MISSION SUPPORT SYSTEM
AFRES AIR FORCE RESERVE
AFSC AIR FORCE SPECIALTY CODE (USAF)
AFSC ARMED FORCES STAFF COLLEGE
AFSOC AIR FORCE SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMPONENT
AFSPC AIR FORCE SPACE COMMAND
AFWA AIR FORCE WEATHER AGENCY (formerly AFGWC)
AFWIN AIR FORCE WEATHER INFORMATION NETWORK
AFWTL AIR FORCE WEATHER TECHNICAL LIBRARY
AGCCS ARMY GLOBAL COMMAND AND CONTROL SYSTEM
ALSO ARTILLERY LIMITED SURFACE OBSERVATION
AM AMPLITUDE MODULATION
AMC AIR MOBILITY COMMAND
AME AIR MOBILITY ELEMENT
ANG AIR NATIONAL GUARD
AOA AMPHIBIOUS OBJECTIVE AREA
AOC AIR OPERATIONS CENTER
AOR AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY
API APPLICATION PROGRAMMING INTERFACE
APOD AERIAL PORT OF DEBARKATION
APT AUTOMATIC PICTURE TRANSMISSION
AR AIR REFUELING
ARC ARMORED CAVALRY REGIMENT
ARCENT ARMY CENTRAL COMMAND
ARFOR ARMY FORCES
ARQ AUTOMATIC RESPONSE TO QUERY
ARSPACE ARMY COMPONENT, SPACE COMMAND
ARTYMET ARTILLERY METEOROLOGY
ASNE AIR AND SPACE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
ASW ANTI-SUBMARINE WARFARE
ATO AIR TASKING ORDER
K-1
ATS AIR TRAFFIC SERVICE

AUTODIN AUTOMATED DIGITAL INFORMATION NETWORK
AVN AVIATION
AWDS AUTOMATED WEATHER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM
AWN AUTOMATED WEATHER NETWORK
AWP ALLIED WEATHER PUBLICATION
AXBT AIRBORNE EXPENDABLE BATHYTHERMOGRAPH
BBS BULLETIN BOARD SYSTEM
BCIXS BATTLECUBE INFORMATION EXCHANGE SYSTEM
BG BATTLE GROUP
BN BATTALION
BPS BITS PER SECOND
BT BATHYTHERMOGRAPH
BTXT BT DATA EXTRACT
C2 COMMAND AND CONTROL
C4I COMMAND, CONTROL, COMMUNICATIONS, COMPUTERS AND
CAFWSP COMBAT AIR FORCES WEATHER SOFTWARE PACKAGE
CAP CRISIS ACTION PLANNING
CAS CLOSE AIR SUPPORT
CAS/CA CLOSE AIR SUPPORT/COUNTER ARMOR
CAT CRISIS ACTION TEAM
CBRNE CHEMICAL, BIOLOGICAL, RADIOLOGICAL, NUCLEAR AND
EXPLOSIVE
CCIR COMMANDER'S CRITICAL INFORMATION REQUIREMENT
CDM CHEMICAL DOWNWIND MESSAGE
CDM CONFIGURATION DATA MANAGER
CE COMMAND ELEMENT (USMC)
CENTAF U. S. AIR FORCES, U. S. CENTRAL COMMAND
CES COMMANDER'S ESTIMATE OF THE SITUATION
CFLOS CLOUD FREE LINE OF SIGHT
CIG CEILING
CINC COMMANDER IN CHIEF
CJCS(I) CHAIRMAN JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF (INSTRUCTION)
CJTF COMMANDER JOINT TASK FORCE
CM COMMAND METEOROLOGIST
CMS COMMUNICATIONS SUBSYSTEM (USMC TMQ-44A)
COA COURSE OF ACTION
COAMPS COUPLED OCEAN-ATMOSPHERE MESOSCALE PREDICTION
SYSTEM
COB COLLOCATED OPERATING BASE
COE COMMON OPERATING ENVIRONMENT
COMNAVMETOCCOM COMMANDER NAVAL METOC COMMAND
COMSEC COMMUNICATIONS SECURITY
CONOPS CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS
CONPLAN CONCEPT PLAN
CONUS CONTINENTAL UNITED STATES
CP COMMAND POST
CRC CRISIS RESPONSE CELL
CSAR COMBAT SEARCH AND RESCUE
CSPDS CENTRAL SITE PRODUCT DISPLAY SYSTEM
CSSE COMBAT SERVICE SUPPORT ELEMENT
CV AIRCRAFT CARRIER
CVN NUCLEAR AIRCRAFT CARRIER
CW CONTINUOUS WAVE
CWT COMBAT WEATHER TEAM
DAS DIRECT AIR SUPPORT
K-2
DCA DEFENSIVE COUNTERAIR

DCS DEFENSE COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM
DII DEFENSE INFORMATION INFRASTRUCTURE
DISA DEFENSE INFORMATION SYSTEMS AGENCY
DISN DEFENSE INFORMATION SYSTEM NETWORK
DIVARTY DIVISION ARTILLERY
DMS DEFENSE MESSAGING SYSTEM
DMSP DEFENSE METEOROLOGICAL SATELLITE PROGRAM
DOD DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
DRP DATA REQUEST PRODUCTS
DSCR DEFENSE SUPPLY CENTER RICHMOND
DSCS DEFENSE SATELLITE COMMUNCATION SYSTEM
DSN DEFENSE SWITCHED NETWORK
DZ DROP ZONE
EA ELECTRONIC ATTACK
EAC ECHELON ABOVE CORPS
EAD EXTENDED ACTIVE DUTY
EAF EXPEDITIONARY AIR FORCE
ECU ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL UNIT
EDM EFFECTIVE DOWNWIND MESSAGE
EEI ESSENTIAL ELEMENT OF INFORMATION
EHF EXTRA HIGH FREQUENCY
EMC EUROPEAN METOC CENTER
EMI ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERFERENCE
ENVR ENVIRONMENTAL LINES
EO ELECTRO-OPTICAL
EOC EXPEDITIONARY OPERATIONS CENTER
EOD EXPLOSIVE ORDINANCE DISPOSAL
EOG EXPEDITIONARY OPERATIONS GROUP
EOSS EXPEDITIONARY OPERATIONS SUPPORT SQUADRON
EOTDA ELECTRO-OPTICAL TACTICAL DECISION AID
EP ELECTRONIC PROTECTION
ES ELECTRONIC WARFARE SUPPORT
ESC ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS COMMAND
ESK ELECTRONIC SWO KIT
ESP ENVIRONMENTAL SUPPORT PACKET
FALOP FORWARD AREA LIMITED OBSERVATION PROGRAM
FAP FLEET ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
FARP FORWARD AND ARMING REFUELING POINT
FAX FACSIMILE
FLENUMMETOCCEN FLEET NUMERICAL METOC CENTER
FM FIELD MANUAL
FM FREQUENCY MODULATION
FMF FLEET MARINE FORCE
FNMOC FLEET NUMERICAL METOC CENTER
FOA FIELD OPERATING AGENCY
FOB FORWARD OPERATING BASE
FORSCOM FORCES COMMAND
FTP FILE TRANSFER PROTOCOL
GA GLOBAL ATTACK
GAT GUIDANCE AND APPORTIONMENT TARGETING
GBS GLOBAL BROADCAST SYSTEM
GCCS GLOBAL COMMAND AND CONTROL SYSTEM
GCCS-M GCCS-MARITIME
GCSS GLOBAL COMBAT SUPPORT SYSTEM
GCE GROUND COMBAT ELEMENT
K-3
GEM GENERAL ENVIRONMENTAL MESSAGE

GFMPL GEOPHYSICAL FLEET MISSION PROGRAM LIBRARY
GIS GEOSPATIAL INFORMATION SERVICES
GI&S GEOSPATIAL INFORMATION AND SERVICES
GOES GEOSTATIONARY ORBITING EARTH SATELLITE
GPS GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM
HAWK TOMAHAWK SUPPORT MESSAGE
HDR HIGH DATA RATE
HF HIGH FREQUENCY
HFRB HIGH FREQUENCY RADIO BROADCAST
HMMWV HIGH MOBILITY MOTORIZED WHEELED VEHICLE
HQ HEADQUARTERS
HRO HUMANITARIAN RELIEF ORGANIZATION
HWD HORIZONTAL WEATHER DEPICTION
IAS INTELLIGENCE ANALYSIS SYSTEM
IER INFORMATION EXCHANGE REQUIREMENT
IERS INTERNATIONAL EARTH ROTATION SERVICE
IMA INDIVIDUAL MOBILIZATION AUGMENTEE
IMETS INTEGRATED METEOROLOGICAL SYSTEM
IMOSS INTERIM MOBILE OCEANOGRAPHIC SUPPORT SYSTEM
INMARSAT INTERNATIONAL MARITIME SATELLITE
INTSUM INTELLIGENCE SUMMARY
IPB INTELLIGENCE PREPARATION OF THE BATTLEFIELD
IPL INTEGRATED PRIORITY LIST
IREPS INTEGRATED REFRACTIVE EFFECTS PREDICTION SYSTEM
ISO INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR STANDARDS
ISS INTERMEDIATE SERVICE SCHOOL
IWEDA INTEGRATED WEATHER EFFECTS DECISION AID
JA/ATT JOINT AIRBORNE/AIR TRANSPORTABILITY TRAINING
JAC JOINT ANALYSIS CENTER
JAOC JOINT AIR OPERATIONS CELL
JCCC JOINT COMMAND, CONTROL, AND COMPUTERS
JCLL JOINT CENTER FOR LESSONS LEARNED
JCS JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF
JCSE JOINT COMMUNICATIONS SUPPORT ELEMENT
JDISS JOINT DEPLOYABLE INTELLIGENCE SUPPORT SYSTEM
JF JOINT FORCE
JFACC JOINT FORCE AIR COMPONENT COMMANDER
JFC JOINT FORCE COMMANDER
JFFC JOINT FORCE AIR COMPONENT COMMANDER
JFLCC JOINT FORCE LAND COMPONENT COMMANDER
JFMCC JOINT FORCE MARITIME COMPONENT COMMANDER
JFSOCC JOINT FORCE SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMPONENT
JIATF-EAST JOINT INTERAGENCY TASK FORCE - EAST
JIB JOINT INFORMATION BUREAU
JIC JOINT INTELLIGENCE CENTER
JIPTL JOINT INTEGRATED PRIORITIZED TARGET LIST
JJPRO CLIMATOLOGICAL BT EXTRACT
JLOTS JOINT LOGISTICS OVER THE SHORE
JMA JOINT MISSION AREA
JMCIS JOINT MARITIME COMMAND INFORMATION SYSTEM
JMCOMS JOINT MARITIME COMMUNICATIONS STRATEGY
JMD JOINT MANNING DOCUMENT
JMFC JOINT METOC FORECAST CAPABILITY
JMFU JOINT METOC FORECAST UNIT
JMO JOINT FORCE METOC OFFICER
K-4
JMS JOINT METOC SEGMENT

JMTC JOINT MARITIME TACTICS COURSE
JMV JOINT METOC VIEWER
JOA JOINT OPERATIONS AREA
JOAF JOINT OPERATIONS AREA FORECAST
JOC JOINT OPERATIONS CENTER
JOPES JOINT OPERATION PLANNING AND EXECUTION SYSTEM
JP JOINT PUBLICATION
JPEC JOINT PLANNING AND EXECUTION COMMUNITY
JPG JOINT PLANNING GROUP
JPME JOINT PROFESSIONAL MILITARY EDUCATION
JPOTF JOINT PSYCHOLOGICAL OPERATIONS TASK FORCE
JRC JOINT RECON CENTER
JSAR JOINT SEARCH AND RESCUE
JSCAP JOINT STRATEGIC CAPABILITIES LIST
JSCP JOINT STRATEGIC CAPABILITIES PLAN
JSO JOINT SPECIALTY OFFICER
JSOSOC JOINT SPECIAL OPERATIONS STAFF OFFICERS COURSE
JSOTF JOINT SPECIAL OPERATIONS TASK FORCE
JTA JOINT TECHNICAL ARCHITECTURE
JTCB JOINT TARGETING CONTROL BOARD
JTD JOINT TABLE OF DISTRIBUTION
JTF JOINT TASK FORCE
JTF-CS JOINT TASK FORCE - CIVIL SUPPORT
JTFST JOINT TASK FORCE SATELLITE TERMINAL
JTMD JOINT TABLE OF MOBILIZATION DISTRIBUTION
JTOC JOINT TACTICAL OPERATIONS CENTER
JULLS JOINT UNIFORMED LESSONS LEARNED SYSTEM
JV JOINT VISION
KFU KOREAN FORECAST UNIT
LAN LOCAL AREA NETWORK
LANTFLT ATLANTIC FLEET
LAWC LOCAL AREA WORK CHART
LCC AMPHIBIOUS ASSAULT SHIP
LCC LAND COMPONENT COMMANDER
LDO LIMITED DUTY OFFICER
LDR LOW DATA RATE
LOS LINE OF SIGHT
LPD AMPHIBIOUS TRANSPORT DOCK
LPH AMPHIBIOUS ASSAULT SHIP
LRC LOGISTICS READINESS CENTER
LRF LASER RANGE FINDER
LRSU LONG RANGE SURVEILLANCE UNITS
LSB LOWER SIDEBAND
LSS LOCAL SENSOR SUBSYSTEM (USMC TMQ-44A)
LZ LANDING ZONE
MAGTF MARINE AIR GROUND TASK FORCE
MAJCOM MAJOR COMMAND
MANOP MANUAL OF OPERATIONS
MAR METOC ASSISTANCE REQUEST
MARCENT MARINE COMPONENT, US CENTRAL COMMAND
MARFOR MARINE FORCES
MARFOREUR MARINE FORCES EUROPE
MARFORLANT MARINE FORCES ATLANTIC
MARFORPAC MARINE FORCES PACIFIC
MARFORSOUTH MARINE FORCES, SOUTHERN COMMAND
K-5
MAW MARINE AIR WING

MC&G MAPPING, CHARTING, AND GEODESY
MCAS MARINE CORPS AIR STATION
MCC MARITIME COMPONENT COMMANDER
MCC MOBILITY CONTROL CENTER
MCF MISSION CONTROL FORECAST
MCM MINE COUNTERMEASURES
MCS MANEUVER CONTROL SYSTEMS
MDR MEDIUM DATA RATE
MEB MARINE EXPEDITIONARY BRIGADE
MEF MARINE EXPEDITIONARY FORCE
MEF MISSION EXECUTION FORECAST
MET MOBILE ENVIRONMENTAL TEAM
METMF METEOROLOGICAL MOBILE FACILITY
METMF(R) METEOROLOGICAL MOBILE FACILITY-REPLACEMENT
METOC METEOROLOGY AND OCEANOGRAPHY
METSAT METEOROLOGICAL SATELLITE
METT-T MISSION ACCOMPLISHMENT/ENEMY/TERRAIN/TROOPS
AVAILABLE - TIME AVAILABLE
METWATCH METEOROLOGICAL WATCH
MEU MARINE EXPEDITIONARY UNIT
MFC METOC FORECAST CENTER
MIST METEOROLOGICAL INFORMATION STANDARD TERMINAL
MM5 MESOSCALE MODEL VERSION 5
MOB MAIN OPERATING BASE
MOPP MISSION-ORIENTED PROTECTIVE POSTURE
MOS MANUAL OBSERVING SYSTEM
MOS MILITARY OPERATIONAL SKILL (USMC)
MOSS MOBILE OCEANOGRAPHIC SUPPORT SYSTEM
MPF MISSION PLANNING FORECAST
MRS METEOROLOGICAL RADAR SUBSYSTEM (USMC TMQ-44A)
MRS MINI RAWINSONDE SYSTEM
MSC MILITARY SEALIFT COMMAND
MSE MULTIPLE SUBSCRIBER EQUIPMENT
MSEA MODELING AND SIMULATION EXECUTIVE AGENT
MSG MESSAGE
MSI MODIFIED SURF INDEX
MSS METEOROLOGICAL SATELLITE SUBSYSTEM (USMC TMQ-44A)
MST MEF WEATHER SUPPORT TEAM
MT METEOROLOGY TECHNICIAN
MTG MASTER TRAINING GUIDE
MTMC MILITARY TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT COMMAND
MTP MISSION TRAINING PLAN
MVOI MULTI-VARIATE OPTIMAL INTERPOLATION
MWSG MARINE WING SUPPORT GROUP
MWSS MARINE WING SUPPORT SQUADRON
NAF NUMBERED AIR FORCE
NAMIS NATO AUTOMATED METEOROLOGICAL INFORMATION SYSTEM
NATO NORTH ATLANTIC TREATY ORGANIZATION
NAVAF NAVY/AIR FORCE
NAVCENT NAVY COMPONENT, US CENTRAL COMMAND
NAVEUR NAVY COMPONENT, EUROPEAN COMMAND
NAVEURMETOCCEN NAVAL EUROPEAN METOC CENTER
NAVFOR NAVAL FORCES
NAVICECEN NAVAL ICE CENTER
NAVLANTMETOCCEN NAVAL ATLANTIC METOC CENTER
K-6
NAVOCEANO NAVAL OCEANOGRAPHIC OFFICE

NAVPACMETOCCEN NAVAL PACIFIC METOC CENTER
NAVSPACE NAVY SPACE COMMAND
NBC NUCLEAR, BIOLOGICAL, CHEMICAL
NCA NATIONAL COMMAND AUTHORITIES
NCEP NATIONAL CENTER FOR ENVIRONMENTAL PREDICTION
NCO NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICER
NEC NAVY ENLISTED CODE
NGB NATIONAL GUARD BUREAU
NGO NON-GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATION
NIC NETWORK INTERFACE CARD
NIPRNET NON-SECURE INTERNET PROTOCOL ROUTER NETWORK
NITES NAVY INTEGRATED TACTICAL ENVIRONMENTAL SUBSYSTEM
NOAA NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION
NODDS NAVAL OPERATIONAL DATA DISPLAY SYSTEM
NOGAPS NAVAL OPERATIONAL GLOBAL ATMOSPHERIC PREDICTION
NORAPS NAVAL OPERATIONAL REGIONAL ATMOSPHERIC PREDICTION
NPOESS NATIONAL POLAR ORBITING ENVIRONMENTAL SATELLITE
SYSTEM
NRL NAVAL RESEARCH LAB
NSAR NATIONAL SEARCH AND RESCUE
NSC NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
NSWC NAVAL SPECIAL WARFARE COMMAND
N-TFS NEW TACTICAL FORECAST SYSTEM
NTM NATIONAL TECHNICAL MEANS
NTP NETWORK TIME PROTOCOL
NVG NIGHT VISION GOGGLES
NWS NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE
OA OPERATIONS AEROGRAPHER
OA OPERATIONS AREA
OCA OFFENSIVE COUNTERAIR
OCCTC OPERATIONS CONTROL CENTER TEAM CHIEF (AFWA)
OES OCEANOGRAPHIC EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
OFCM OFFICE OF THE FED COORDINATOR FOR METEOROLOGY
OIC OFFICER IN CHARGE
OL OPERATING LOCATION
OPAREA OPERATIONS AREA
OPCON OPERATIONAL CONTROL
OPG OPERATIONS PLANNING GROUP
OPLAN OPERATIONAL PLAN
OPORD OPERATION ORDER
OPSEC OPERATIONS SECURITY
OPTASK OPERATIONS TASK
ORI OPERATIONAL READINESS INSPECTION
OSD OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE
OSS OPERATIONAL SUPPORT SQUADRON
OTC OFFICER IN TACTICAL COMMAND
OTIS OPTIMAL THERMAL INTERPOLATION SYSTEM
OTSR OPTIMAL TRACK SHIP ROUTING
OWS OPERATIONAL WEATHER SQUADRON
PACAF PACIFIC AIR FORCES
PACFLT PACIFIC FLEET
PC PERSONAL COMPUTER
PCS PROCESSING SUBSYSTEM (USMC TMQ-44A)
PfP PARTNERSHIP FOR PEACE
PGM PRECISION GUIDED MUNITION
K-7
PIBAL PILOT BALLOON

PIPS POLAR ICE PREDICTION SYSTEM
PIREP PILOT REPORT
PLAD PLAIN LANGUAGE ADDRESS
PMS PORTABLE METEOROLOGICAL SUBSYSTEM (USMC TMQ-44A)
PMSV PILOT TO METRO SERVICE
PNTDT POINT DATA EXTRACT
POC POINT OF CONTACT
POD POINT OF DEPARTURE
POE PORT OF EMBARKATION
POTS PLAIN OLD TELEPHONE SYSTEM
PPS PRECISE POSITIONING SERVICE
PSBRT PORTABLE SATELLITE BROADCAST RECEIVE TERMINAL
PSYOPS PSYCHOLOGICAL OPERATIONS
QC QUALITY CONTROL
QRCT QUICK REACTION COMMUNICATIONS TERMINAL
RATT RADIO TELETYPEWRITER
RDIT RAPID DEPLOYABLE IMAGERY TERMINAL
RECCE RECONNAISSANCE
RFI REQUEST FOR INFORMATION
RIBS REFRACTIVE DATA BY STATION
RSS REMOTE SENSOR SUBSYSTEM (USMC TMQ-44A)
RTTY RADIO TELETYPE
RWS RAWINSONDE SUBSYSTEM (USMC TMQ-44A)
SAFWIN SECURE AIR FORCE WEATHER INFORMATION NETWORK
SAR SUPPORT ASSISTANCE REQUEST
SATCOM SATELLITE COMMUNICATION
SCI SPECIALIZED COMPARTMENTALIZED INFORMATION
SEAD SUPPRESSION OF ENEMY AIR DEFENSE
SECAF SECRETARY OF THE AIR FORCE
SECDEF SECRETARY OF DEFENSE
SESS SPACE ENVIRONMENTAL SUPPORT SYSTEM
SHF SUPER HIGH FREQUENCY
SIPRNET SECURE INTERNET PROTCOL ROUTER NETWORK
SITREP SITUATION REPORT
SME SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT
SMEB SIGNIFICANT MILITARY EVENT BRIEF
SMO SENIOR METOC OFFICER
SNDFO SOUND FOCUSING
SOC SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMMAND
SOCCENT SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMMAND, CENTRAL COMMAND
SOCEUR SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMMAND, EUROPEAN COMMAND
SOCJFCOM SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMMAND, JOINT FORCES COMMAND
SOCPAC SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMMAND, PACIFIC COMMAND
SOCSOUTH SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMMAND, SOUTHERN COMMAND
SOF SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES
SOF SUPERVISOR OF FLYING (AIR FORCE)
SOFWOC SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES WEATHER OPERATIONS CENTER
SOP STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
SOWT SPECIAL OPERATIONS WEATHER TEAM
SPAWARSYSCOM SPACE AND WARFARE SYSTEMS COMMAND
SPECAT SPECIAL CATEGORY
SPOD SEA PORT OF DEBARKATION
SPOUT SPOUT OUTPUT
SPS STANDARD POSITIONING SERVICE
SS SEA STATE
K-8
SSMI SPECIAL SENSOR MICROWAVE IMAGER

SSOB SPECIAL SUPPORT OPERATIONS BRANCH (AFWA)
SSS SENIOR SERVICE SCHOOL
SSS SHELTER SUBSYSTEM (USMC TMQ-44A)
SST SEA SURFACE TEMPERATURE
STACCS STANDARD THEATER ARMY COMMAND & CONTROL SYSTEM
STELLA SYSTEM TO ESTIMATE LATITUDE AND LONGITUDE
ASTRONOMICALLY
STOIC SPECIAL TACTICAL OCEANOGRAPHIC INFO CHART
STT SMALL TACTICAL TERMINAL
SWI SPECIAL WEATHER INTELLIGENCE
SWO STAFF WEATHER OFFICER
SWXS SPACE WEATHER SQUADRON
TA TABLE OF ALLOWANCE
TACC TANKER AIRLIFT CONTROL CENTER
TACFIRE TACTICAL FIRE
TACMET TACTICAL METEOROLOGY
TADIXS TACTICAL DATA INFORMATION EXCHANGE SYSTEM
TAF TERMINAL AERODROME FORECAST
TALCE TACTICAL AIRLIFT CONTROL ELEMENT
TAMPS TACTICAL AIRLIFT MISSION PLANNING SYSTEM
TARWI TARGET AREA WEATHER INDICATOR
TAS TACTICAL ATMOSPHERIC SUMMARY
TAWS TARGET ACQUISITION WEATHER SOFTWARE
TBD TO BE DETERMINED
TDA TACTICAL DECISION AID
TBMCS THEATER BATTLE MANAGEMENT CORE SYSTEM
TENCAP TACTICAL EXPLOITATION OF NATIONAL CAPABILITIES
TESS/NC TACTICAL ENVIRONMENTAL SUPPORT SYSTEM/NEXT CENTURY
T/O TABLE OF ORGANIZATION (USMC)
TOAF TACTICAL OPERATIONS AREA FORECAST
TOC TACTICAL OPERATIONS CENTER
TOE TABLE OF ORGANIZATION AND EQUIPMENT
TOPS THERMODYNAMIC OCEAN PREDICTION SYSTEM
TPFDD TIME-PHASED FORCE DEPLOYMENT DATA
TPFDDL TIME-PHASED FORCE DEPLOYMENT DATA LIST
TS TOP SECRET
TTF TANKER TASK FORCE
TTPC TOMAHAWK TACTICAL PLANNERS COURSE
T-VSAT TACTICAL VERY SMALL APERATURE TERMINAL
TWR TACTICAL WEATHER RADAR
TWSTT TWO-WAY SATELLITE TIME TRANSFER
UAV UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE
UCP UNIFIED COMMAND PLAN
UGDF UNIFORM GRIDDED DATA FIELD
UHF ULTRA HIGH FREQUENCY
UJTL UNIVERSAL JOINT TRAINING LIST
UNAAF UNIFIED ACTION ARMED FORCES
USAFE US AIR FORCES IN EUROPE
USAR U.S. ARMY RESERVE
USAREUR US ARMY FORCES, EUROPEAN COMMAND
USARPAC US ARMY FORCES, PACIFIC COMMAND
USARSO US ARMY FORCES, SOUTHERN COMMAND
USASOC US ARMY SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMMAND
USB UPPER SIDEBAND
USCENTCOM US CENTRAL COMMAND
K-9
USEUCOM US EUROPEAN COMMAND

USGS US GEOLOGICAL SURVEY
USJFCOM US JOINT FORCES COMMAND
USNO US NAVAL OBSERVATORY
USPACOM US PACIFIC COMMAND
USSOCOM US SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMMAND
USSOUTHAF US AIR FORCES, US SOUTHERN COMMAND
USSOUTHCOM US SOUTHERN COMMAND
USSPACECOM US SPACE COMMAND
USSTRATCOM US STRATEGIC COMMAND
USTRANSCOM US TRANSPORTATION COMMAND
USW UNDERSEA WARFARE
UTC UNIT TYPE CODE
UUV UNMANNED UNDERWATER VEHICLE
VCLOS VISUAL CLEAR LINE OF SIGHT
VDS VIDEO SUBSYSTEM (USMC TMQ-44A)
VHF VERY HIGH FREQUENCY
VSAT VERY SMALL APERTURE TERMINAL
WAM NAVY WAVE MODEL
WAN WIDE AREA NETWORK
WEAX WEATHER
WEFAX WEATHER FACSIMILE
WMD WEAPON OF MASS DESTRUCTION
WME WEAPON OF MASS EFFECTS
WMO WORLD METEOROLOGICAL ORGANIZATION
WS WEATHER SQUADRON
WSC WARFIGHTING SUPPORT CENTER
WSU WEATHER SUPPORT UNIT
WTI WEAPONS AND TACTICS INSTRUCTOR
WX WEATHER
WX WEATHER
XBT EXPENDABLE BATHYTHERMOGRAPH RECORDER
K-10
Z-Distribution
Appendix Z - Distribution
This publication is intended for DOD personnel only. Local reproduction is authorized for DoD
organizations and personnel.
DISTRIBUTION:
Joint Staff, J-38/ROD, Pentagon Room 2D921G-6, Washington DC 20318-3000
Joint Staff, J-33/JOD, Pentagon Room 2B885, Washington DC 20318-3000
U.S. Joint Forces Command, USJFCOM/J335WX, 1562 Mitscher Ave Ste 200, Norfolk
VA 23551-2488 (50 copies)
U.S. Central Command, CCJ3-OW, 7215 South Boundary Rd, MacDill AFB, FL
33621-5101 (2 copies)
U.S. European Command, J33-WE, Unit 30400 Box 1000, APO AE 09128 (20 copies)
U.S. Pacific Command, J316, Camp H. M. Smith HI 96861-5025 (2 copies)
U.S. Southern Command, SCJ3/SMO, c/o HQ 24 WS/CC Unit 0640, APO AA 34001
U.S. Space Command, J33W, 250 S. Peterson Blvd, Ste 116, Peterson AFB CO
80914-3090
U.S. Strategic Command, J315, 913 SAC Blvd, Suite 1B25, Offutt AFB NE 68113-6300
U.S. Special Operations Command, J3-OW, 7701 Tampa Point Blvd, MacDill AFB FL
33621-5323 (2 copies)
U.S. Transportation Command, TCJ3-ODM, 508 Scott Dr., Scott AFB IL
62225-5357 (2 copies)
U.S. Forces Korea, FKJ2-SWO, c/o 607th Weather Squadron, Unit 15173, APO AP
96205-0108 (5 copies)
Headquarters, U.S. Air Force, XOW, 1490 Pentagon, Washington DC 20330-1490
(2 copies)
Headquarters, Dept of the Army, Attn: DAMI-POB/Room 2B459, 1000 Army
Pentagon, Washington DC 20310-1067 (5 copies)
Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps, Code ASL-44, Room 2316, Washington DC 20380
(15 copies)
Office of the Oceanographer of the Navy, USNO Bldg 1, 3450 Massachusetts Ave., NW,
Washington DC 20392-5421 (2 copies)
U.S. Atlantic Fleet, Code N37, 1562 Mitscher Ave., Suite 250, Norfolk, VA23551-2487
(5 copies)
Headquarters, Air Combat Command, ACC/DIW, 205 Dodd Blvd., Langley AFB, VA
23665-2789 (10 copies)
U.S. Forces Command, SWO, 2nd Weather Flight/CC, 200 Hardee Ave., Fort
McPherson, GA 30330-6000 (2 copies)
Commander, Second Fleet, Code N335, FPO AE 09506-6000 (2 copies)
3rd Weather Squadron/CC, Bldg 90049 Clarke Rd, Fort Hood, TX 76544-5076
8AF/AOOW, 245 Davis Ave. East, Ste. 250, Barksdale AFB, LA 71110-2269
18th Weather Squadron/CC, Parham Blvd., Bldg. P-4541, Fort Bragg, NC 28307-5000
(2 copies)
Commander, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command, 1020 Balch Blvd.,
Z-1
Z-Distribution
Stennis Space Center, MS 39529-5005 (200 Copies)

Air Force Weather Agency/XO, 106 Peacekeeper Dr., Ste 2N3, Offutt AFB NE 68113-4039
(200 copies)
Naval Atlantic Meteorology and Oceanography Center, NAS Norfolk, 9141 3rd Ave.,
Norfolk, VA 23511-2394 (3 copies)
Naval Atlantic Meteorology and Oceanography Facility, P.O. Box 85, NAS, Jacksonville,
FL 32212-0085 (2 copies)
Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography Center, 7 Grace Hopper Ave., Stop 1,
Monterey, CA 92943-5005 (2 copies)
Naval Oceanographic Office, Warfighting Support Center, 1002 Balch Blvd., Stennis
Space Center, MS 39522-5001 (3 copies)
Air Force Weather Agency, 106 Peacekeeper Dr., Ste. 2N3, Offutt AFB NE 68113-4039
(2 copies)
Air Force Combat Climatology Center, 151 Patton Ave Rm 120, Asheville, NC
28801-5002 (2 copies)
Air Force Combat Weather Center, Bldg. 91027, 595 Independence Road, Hurlburt Field,
FL 32544-5614 (5 copies)
Marine Aviation Weapons Tactics Squadron (MAWTS), Box 99200, Yuma, AZ
85369-9200 Attn: METOC Officer (1 copy)
Additional copies of this publication can be obtained through Service METOC Headquarters:
Air Force: Air Force Weather Agency (AFWA), DSN 271-5984

Code XOO
106 Peacekeeper Dr., Ste 2N3
Offut AFB NE 68113-4039
Navy: Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command, DSN 485-5051

Code N332
1002 Balch Blvd
Stennis Space Center, MS 39529-5005
Army: HQDA ODCSINT (DAMI-POB), DSN 329-2499 / 2500 / 2501

2511 Jefferson Davis Hwy. Suite 9300
Arlington, VA 22202-3910
Marine Corps: Headquarters Marine Corps, DSN 224-1835

Code ASL-44
2 Navy Annex, Room 2316
Washington, D.C. 20380-1775
Z-2

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U.S.

Joint Forces Command

Joint Meteorology & Oceanography

MEMORANDUM FOR: Distribution List (Annex Z)

EDMOND M. FROST MARK W. LEVSKY

Change Copy Date of Date Posted By Remarks

RECORD OF CHANGES .............................................................................................................. ii

Chapter 5 - The Senior METOC Officer........................................................................... 5-1

9.1.1 Army Employment Concepts..................................................................................... 9-3

Figure 1-1. Organization for National Security .......................................................................... 1-1

Table 7-1. Military SATCOM Attributes ....................................................................... 7-6

Chapter 1 - Joint Structure and Organization

1.1 Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Joint Staff

1.1.1 Organization for National Security

Commander Commander Commander

Operational Responsibilities Support Responsibilities

Figure 1-1. Organization for National Security

1.1.2 Joint Staff METOC Resources

• Joint Staff J-38/ROD (AF O-5 billet)

• Joint Staff J-33/JOD (Navy O-5 billet)

1.2 Unified Commands

U.S. U.S. U.S. U.S. U.S. U.S.

U.S. U.S. U.S. U.S.

Regional Responsibilities Functional Responsibilities

Figure 1-2. Unified Combatant Commands

Awaiting UCP 2002 Update

Figure 1-3. Geographic Commander’s Area of Responsibility

USSOUTHCOM. Strengthen democratic institutions in Central and South America by assisting

USSOCOM. Prepare special operations forces to successfully conduct worldwide special

USSPACECOM. Conduct joint space operations to include: Space Forces Support--placing

1.2.2 Unified Command METOC, Components, and Supporting METOC Staff

• Senior METOC Officer

LANTFLT Norfolk, VA Staff Oceanographer

• Supporting theater METOC forecast centers:

• Senior METOC Officer:

• Supporting theater METOC forecast centers:

• EUCOM SMO (USAFE Liaison Officer)

MSG: USCINCEUR VAIHINGEN GE//ECJ33-WE//

• Supporting theater METOC forecast centers:

• Senior METOC Officer:

• Supporting theater METOC forecast centers:

- 20th Operational Weather Squadron , Yokota, Japan

• Senior METOC Officer:

• Supporting theater METOC forecast centers:

• Senior METOC Officer:

- JSOC Ft Bragg, NC Staff Weather Officer

• Supporting METOC forecast centers:

• Senior METOC Officer:

• Supporting METOC forecast centers:

• Senior METOC Officer: Mr. Mike Baker

• Supporting METOC forecast centers:

• Senior METOC Officer:

• Supporting METOC forecast centers:

Chapter 2 - Joint Planning and Task Force Formation

2.1 Joint Planning - Overview

• Campaign Planning. Combatant commanders develop theater campaign plans to

• Deliberate Planning. Deliberate planning is conducted principally in peacetime to

JOINT OPERATION PLANNING

DELIBERATE PLANNING CRISIS ACTION PLANNING

OPLAN CONPLAN FUNCTIONAL CAMPAIGN OPORD

Figure 2-1. Joint Operation Planning

- OPLANs (Operation Plan). A complete and detailed operation plan contains a

- CONPLANs (Concept Plans). CONPLANs (with or without a TPFDD) are