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DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY FIELD MANUALCAMOUFLAGE
BASIC PRINCIPLESANDFIELD CAMOUFLAGE

HEADQUARTERS,DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMYJANUARY 1959

*FM 5-20
HEADQUARTERS,FIELD MANIUALl

No. 5-20

CAMOUFLAGE,

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMYWASHINGTON 25, D. C., 21 January 1959

BASBC PRINCIPLES AND FIELDCAMOUFLAGE
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PART ONE. BASIC PRINCIPLES OF CAMOUFLAGE
CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION-...........................

2. THE PROBLEM OF CONCEALMENT
Section 1. Types of observation ------------------II. Types of photographs -------------------------III. Preventing recognition__-CHAPTER 3. PRINCIPLES AND METHODS OF CAMOUFLAGE ------------------4. GEOGRAPHIC FACTORS
Section I. Temperate zone..............................
II. Desert --------------------------------III. Jungle _____---------------------------IV. Snow and ice --------------------------------CHAPTER 5. USE OF NATURAL AND ARTIFICIAL MATERIALS
Section I. Natural materials and their uses --------------II. Artificial camouflage materials and their use -----III. Maintenance of natural and artificial materials -.IV. Disruption of form --------------------------PART TWO. FIELD CAMOUFLAGE
CHAPTER 6. INDIVIDUAL CAMOUFLAGE -------------7. FIELD FORTIFICATIONS
Section I. EmDlacements -------------------------II. Individual weapons --------------------_--CHAPTER 8. VEHICLES ------------------------------

9. BIVOUACS, COMMAND POSTS, AND FIELD
72-81
SERVICE INSTALLATIONS -___-7 ------10. ANTIAIRCRAFT ARTILLERY, FIELD ARTILLERY, AND GUIDED MISSILE INSTALLATIONS
Section I. Antiaircraft artillery and field artillery ---------82-92
II. Guided missile ---------------- -------------93-97
CHAPTER 11. AIRFIELDS, LANDING SITES, AND AIRCRAFT
Section I. Airfields and landing sites -.-98-100
101-115
II. Camouflage of aircraft -----------------------

110

137
157
164
187

*This manual supersedes FM 5-20 9 February 1944; FM 5-20A, 9 February
1944; FM 5-20B, 2 April 1944; FM 5-20C, 1 May 1944; FM 5-20D, 9 February
1944, including C 1, 14 January 1955; FM 5-20E, 1 June 1944; and FM 5-20F,
1 May 1944, including C 1, 17 January 1955.

Paragraphs

Page

CHAPTER 12. FIELD EXPEDIENTS.------------------116-118
APPENDIX I. REFERENCES ---------------------------II. TECHNICAL INFORMATION AND DATA ON
INDIVIDUAL DRAPE NETS AND DRAPE
NET SETS -----------------------------------204

INDEX ___________________________________-----------------------

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PART ONEBASIC PRINCIPLES OF CAMOUFLAGE
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1. Purpose
This manual provides guidance for military personnel on camouflage doctrine and on methods of applying camouflage in the field.

2. Scopea. The manual covers the three basic- principles of camouflage;
factors of recognition, geographic factors effecting camouflage, andcamouflage methods. It describes methods of applying camouflage in the field and suggests expedients that may be used in camouflaging the following: Individuals, weapons, vehicles, aircraft, antiaircraft and field artillery, guided missile firing positions andinstallations, pioneer and hasty airfields, landing sites, bivouacs,
supply points, field fortifications, and other objects and installations.
In addition, information on camouflage nets and net sets, drape-type,including component parts listings and erection procedures is covered.
b. The introduction of nuclear weapons onto the battlefield poses
many new problems and imposes many new requirements on bothindividuals and commanders. Nuclear weapons will be used against
those targets which appear to be most renumerative. The best meansof reducing the chance of a unit becoming the target of nuclear attack is to deny the enemy information as to the unit location andstrength, or to fool the enemy by deception. Habitual use of proper
camouflage will greatly assist in denying this information to theenemy. This manual describes the basic principles and the methods
for the effective use of camouflage to deny essential target information to the enemy. The material presented herein is applicable toboth nuclear and nonnuclear warfare.

3. Generala. Camouflage is a French word meaning disguise and is used todescribe actions taken to mislead the enemy by misrepresenting thetrue identity of an installation, an activity, or an item of equipment.

3

Camouflage, as an element of military deception, permits us to approach unseen and to remain hidden within striking distance of theenemy. It also affords protective concealment for a firing position,material, and personnel. Camouflage permits the individual to see
without being seen, thereby enabling him to strike first, conclusively
and at minimum cost.
b. Camouflage uses concealment and deception to promote our offensive or defensive action, to surprise, to mislead the enemy, and toprevent the enemy from inflicting damage. Concealment includes
hiding from view, making hard to see clearly, arranging obstructions
to vision, deceiving, and disguising. It also enhances deception bymeans of sound. Concealment and deception provide the tools to lure
the enemy into a trap, or to place himself in a position of disadvantage, where he can be quickly and easily destroyed.

4. Camouflage as a Tactical Aida. Dispersion as a Means of Camouflage. Dispersion must becomea key word and action for the individual soldier. The natural but
extremely dangerous tendency to "bunch up" is to be avoided. Onceobserved, any concentration of men or material, or both, immediately
presents a prime target for the enemy.
b. Factors in Dispersion. When subject to hostile aerial observation or upon establishing contact with enemy ground forces, a unit
commander disperses his troops. When taking up a position or preparing to build an installation of any sort that may risk becoming a
potential target to the enemy, he also disperses its various elements
to the fullest extent, dependent on the tactical situation. By taking
these security measures two things are accomplished. First, it permits men and material from presenting a profitable target. Second,
they become more difficult to see. The governing factors in dispersion
are the tactical situation, the nature of the terrain, and the control oftroops.
c. Detection by the Enemy. Even when a position is perfectly
camouflaged or completely concealed by the natural protection ofwoods or other terrain features, the possibility of the eventual detection by the enemy must be taken into consideration. Except for theuse of natural concealment afforded by wooded areas, trees, bushes,
and terrain features, proper dispersion of a command offers the mostconvenient short cut to successful camouflage. If the troops or installation cannot be seen, they are difficult to hit. However, even though
the enemy may be able to see the position, camouflage is still used toprevent him from recognizing it. Even if the enemy could recognize it, camouflage would be used to prevent him from estimating
how large an installation it was and how many troops comprise it.
The first aim of camouflage is to hide an object, men, or equipment

4

and the first step in hiding is to break a large group up into manysmall units which are harder to see individually and also easier toconceal. This dispersion is important for two additional reasons.
First, it is more difficult to hit one small object than a group. Second, a single unit is less valuable a target. One tent, one tank, or one
man may escape attack if the enemy is looking for bigger and bettertargets where he can do more damage.
d. Deception as an Element of Camouflage. The second aim of
camouflage is deception. This is attained by the use of ,any meansor measure to mislead, distract, or misrepresent any installation,equipment, or activity. Deception is covered in FM 5-23.
5. Responsibility for Camouflagea. Irndividual. The individual soldier is responsible for individual
concealment. The soldier must know as much about individual concealment as he does about his weapon. Rifle marksmanship teaches
him how to hit enemy targets; camouflage teaches him to avoid becoming a target himself. The concealment of the area is also vitalto individual safety and is maintained through strict camouflage
discipline.
b. Staff. Camouflage planning is an important phase of counterintelligence activities and as such may be delegated:to the staff engineer under the general staff supervision of the intelligence section.
Plans for area camouflage are coordinated with the operations sections for operational planning and with the staff supply or logistics
section for the necessary materials.
c. Corps of Engineers. The Corps of Engineers is the Army technical service responsible for camouflage doctrine; the development of
camouflage methods, materials, and supply; and the organization of
Army-wide training in procedures, discipline, supervision, and inspection. The Corps of Engineers may be required to provide camouflage
support for the Air Force. The nature of this camouflage support isprimarily in the form of technical assistance.

5

CHAPTER 2
THE PROBLEM OF CONCEALMENT
Section I. TYPES OF OBSERVATION
6. General
Of man's five perceptive senses, sight is by far the most useful tothe enemy; hearing is second; while smell is of only occasional importance. The comparative usefulness of the perceptive senses is
primarily a matter of range. For this reason, basic camouflagestresses visual concealment which is relatively long range while soundcamouflage is covered only briefly. Most persons are accustomed tolooking from one position on the ground to another position on the
ground. Before the soldier can conceal himself from aerial observation, he must become familiar with what his activities look like fromthe air, both in an aerial photograph and from direct observation.
Also, the soldier must have an understanding of the types of observation used by the enemy. There are two categories of observation,
direct and indirect.
a. Direct Observation. Direct observation refers to the process
whereby the observer looks directly at the object itself, with or without the use of telescopes, field glasses, or sniperscopes (fig. 1). Direct
observation may be made from the ground or from the air. Direct
aerial observation becomes more and more important because of rapid· 1.

Figure 1.

6

Directobservation.

changes in the tactical situation due to greater mobility of troops,
weapons, and possible use of guided missiles by enemy forces. Reconnaissance airplanes over enemy lines report locations of troops, vehicles, and installations as seen from the air to the ground control
stations. Immediate fire can be brought onto targets thus found andreported.
b, Indirect Observation. Indirect observation refers to the use or
study of a photograph or an image of the subject (fig. 2). Photog-

Figure 2.

Indirect observation, aerial photo.

raphy, radar, and television are examples of indirect observation.
This form of observation is becoming increasingly more varied andrapid, and may be used from either manned or unmanned positions.
7. Comparison of Direct and Indirect Observationa. The principal advantage of direct observation is that the observer can readily see movement of troops or equipment in the observed area and observation can be maintained over relatively long
periods of time. The main disadvantage lies in human frailty, suchas the physical condition of the individual affecting his power ofobservation.
b. The advantages of indirect observation are many. Indirect observation can be far reaching, cover large areas, and can be very accurate. It also produces a record of the area observed so that therecorded picture can be studied in detail, compared, and evaluated.
The principal disadvantage is that a photograph covers a very shortperiod of time, making detection of movement difficult. This disadvantage can be overcome partially by taking pictures of the same
area at different intervals and comparing them for changes (1 and
2, fig. 3).

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Area before occupation

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Conparing photographs of the same area for enemy activity.

Section II. TYPES OF PHOTOGRAPHS
8. Generala. Angles of View. In modern day warfare, photography (indirect observation) has assumed a place of extreme importance; incamouflage detection and inspection, photography is now practicallyindispensable. Aerial photographs are of three types.
(1) Vertical. The vertical photograph is one taken directly
above the subject (fig. 4). It shows practically no details
in the third dimension other than shadow. It may compare
to the plan view of a building on a blueprint. When taking
a vertical photograph, the line of sight of the camera isperpendicular or nearly so to the line of flight of the
airplane.
VERTICALHIGH OBLIQUEENEMYLOW OBLQUE
GRUND OBSERVER
EFILADE a...
CAMOUFLAGED
EQUIPMENT
Figure 4.

Diagramillustratingangles of view.

(2) HIigh oblique. This type of photograph shows the horizon
and gives an idea of the third dimension by giving the sideand the top view of the subject (fig. 4).
(3) Low oblique. The low-oblique photograph is similar to thehigh-oblique except that it does not show the horizon (fig. 4).
b. Stereovision. In photo interpretation the process of stereovision
is used extensively. By using two photographs of the same subject
taken at slightly different angles (stereoscopic pairs) and viewing
them with the assistance of stereoscopic lens, the third dimension(depth) can be seen. In military aerial photography the apparent
depth is exaggerated because of the distance traveled by the aircraft
between successive photographs. This magnification of vertical dimension permits an observer to detect elevation differences not detectable by the unaided vision. Normally, photographic coverage of anarea that is to be studied will provide a minimum of 60 percent overlap to permit stereoscopic analysis with these stereoscopic pairs. This
is of great advantage when examining enemy camouflage construction
10

or when inspecting our own camouflage construction. For further
information on stereovision see FM 21-26.
.c. Lenses. Cameras used in aerial photography may be equippedwith different type lenses. The lens may be a normal-angle lens,wide-angle lens, narrow-angle lens, or telephoto lens depending on thescale, increased or decreased ground coverage, or depth perception
qualities needed in the photograph by the photo interpreter.
9. Types of Film, ',Different types of film have been developed for use in aerial photography. The following four types of "film for photography camouflage detection are ayailable:a.- Black and White Film. The most common film in use today isth; ordinary black and white filmi (1, fig. 5). This film records

1Black and white

Figure 5.

Types of film.

images in tone gradation of gray between white and black. Although
its sensitivity is different than the eye and does not reproduce color
it provides a permanent record of tonal differences subject to prolonged study. Select filters are often used to improve the photograph or to record only the light that is known to give the greatest
tonal differences between natural backgrounds and the object beingsought.
b. Color Film. Color film approaches the sensitivity of the eye(2, fig. 5). However, owing to its chemical makeup and its principleof operation, this film will give best results only under ideal conditions
112

Color film

Figure5-Continued.

(sunlight). The advantage of using color film is twofold. First, it
provides color contrasts inll additioll to tonal contrasts, and second
because the film is slightly different in sensitivity to the eye it often
reveals camouflage by recording color differences not discernible tothe unaided eye.
c. Infrared Film. Infrared film (3, fig. 5) is sensitive to radiation
which has the same properties as light but which is of wave lengths
that are not detectable by the human eye. However, photographic
film identified as infrared-type film is sensitive to these wave lengths.
12Therefore infrared photographs may be made of objects and terrain
utilizing these wave lengths of radiation exclusively by filtering out
the visible wave lengths of light. This film has many advantages inthat it can be used to take photographs in darkness, provided there
is a source of infrared radiation. Of particular advantage to camouflage detection is the fact that living green vegetation reflects theinfrared waves very readily and in great quantities. This characteristic enables photographs of an area to be taken which provide pictures showing contrasting tones between living green vegetation andartificial plants and materials. However, camouflage infrared reflective paints have been developed that curb this advantage
considerably.

3

Infrared film

Figure5-Continued.

d. Camonfiage-Detection Film. Camouflage detection is a color
film in which the sensitivity has been altered from recording blue,
green and red light to recording green, red, infrared radiations (4,fig. 5). Since live green plant life has ic particular and consistent
relative reflection of these radiations, the film is so made as to reproduce an image of. live plant life as red. All other combinations ofreflection are recorded as some other color. Thus camouflage which
does not have the same reflectance characteristics will be reproduced
in some other color than red in the photograph; usually green or blue
green. A photo interpreter trained in the use of this film is better
able to detect camouflaged positions because of the high color contrast of the position and its background when the position is situatedin an area of living vegetation.
13

4

Camouflage detection film.
Figure 5-Continued.

Section III. PREVENTING RECOGNITION
10. General
Recognition is the determination through appearance or behavior
or movement of the hostile or friendly nature of objects or persons.
One objective of camouflage concealment is to prevent recognition.
In deceiving, the objective is to induce false recognition. This implies that camouflage is not always designed to be a "cloak of invisibility"; sometimes camouflage is designed to allow direction and often
nature and circumstances do not permit the denial of detection, but
recognition can be denied. For example, the use of improperly
garnished drape nets over decoy equipment. Recognition throughappearance is the result of conclusions drawn by the observer fromthe position, shape, shadow, texture, or color of the objects or persons.
Recognition through behavior or movement includes deductions madefrom the actual movements themselves or from the record left bytracks of persons or vehicles or by other violations of camouflage
discipline.
11. Factors of Recognition
Regardless of the type of observation, there are certain factorsthat help to identify an object. These factors are called factors ofrecognition. These are the telltale elements that determine how
14quickly the object will be seen or how long it will remain unobserved.
The 8 factors of recognition are position, shape, shadow, texture,color, tone, movement, and shine. These factors must be consideredin camouflage to insure that 1 or more does not reveal the location.
a. Position. Position is the relation of an object or person to its
background. When choosing a position for concealment, a background should be chosen that will virtually absorb personnel or an
object or installation. 1, figure 6 illustrates improper position; 2, figure 6 illustrates an excellent position.
b. Shape. Shape is the outward or visible form of an object or
person as distinguished from its surface characteristics and color.
Shape refers to outline or form (fig. 7). Color or texture is notconsidered. At a distance the form or outline of objects can be recognized before the observer can make out details in their appearance.
For this reason camouflage has much to do with concealing the shapeof an object or person. A vertical photograph could show several
different objects with similar shapes. For instance, a rectangularshape could be a building, a pool, a truck, or a parking lot. To positively determine the true identity, other factors are needed in addition
to shape; one such factor is shadow.
c, Shadow. Shadow may be more revealing than the object itself,
especially when seen from the air (fig. 8). Objects such as factorychimneys, utility poles, vehicles, and tents have distinctive shadows.
Conversely, shadows sometimes may assist in concealment. Objects
in the shadow of another object are more likely to be overlooked. It
is more important to break up (make irregular), disrupt, or obliterate
the shadow of an object by adding natural or artificial materials or
both in the shadow area, than to conceal totally the object itself.
d. Texture. Texture is a term used to describe the relative characteristics of a surface, whether that surface is a part of an object
or an area of terrain. Texture affects the tone and apparent coloration of things because of its absorption and scattering of light.
Highly textured surfaces tend to appear dark (2, fig. 9) and remain
constant in tone regardless of the direction of view and lighting,whereas relatively smooth surfaces (1, fig. 9) change from dark tolight with a change in direction of viewing or lighting. The application of texture to an object often has the added quality of disrupting its shape and the shape of its shadow making it more difficult to
detect and identify as something foreign to the surroundings in which
it exists. As an example a surface having the same color but withheavy "nap" or texture is tall grass. Each separate blade is capableof casting a shadow upon itself and its surroundings. The lightreflectance properties have been cut to a minimum. It will look andphotograph dark gray. Looking straight down, the aerial observersees all of the shadows whereas the man on the ground may not. The
15

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Helmet after texturing
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18

Texture.

textured surface may look light at ground level but to the aerial observer the same surface produces an effect of relative darkness. The
material used to conceal an individual or an object must approximate
the texture of the terrain in order to blend in with the terrain. Personnel walking or vehicles moving across the terrain will change thetexture by mashing down the growth. Therefore, this will show up
clearly from the air as vehicle tracks or foot paths.
e. Color.
(1) Contrast. Color is an aid to an observer when there is contrast between the color of an object and its background. The
greater the contrast in color, the more visible the object
appears (fig. 10).

Figure 10.

Color contrast; lack of color contrast increases camouflage quality.

(2) Color characteristics and camouflage. Color differences ordifferences in hue, such as red and green-yellow, become increasingly difficult to distinguish (or tend to merge) as theviewing range is increased. This is because of atmosphericeffects. Colors in nature, except for certain floral andtropical animal life, are not brilliant. The impression ofvividness of nature's colors results from the large areas oflike colors involved and the contrast of these areas with eachother. The principal contrast is in their dark and light
qualities. However, the dark and light color contrast does19

not fade out quickly and is distinguishable at greater distances. Therefore, as a first general principle, the camouflage should match the darker and light qualities of the
background and be increasingly concerned with the colors
involved as the viewing range is decreased or the size of theobject or installation becomes larger. A second general rule
to follow is to avoid contrasts of hues and when treating
mobile objects in foliated terrains, light toned colors are to
be avoided as they tend to attract.
(3) Tone. Tone is the effect achieved by the mixing of light,
shade, and color. In a black and white photograph, theshades of gray in which an object appears is known as tone.
By adding texturing material to a smooth or shiny surface,
the surface can be made to produce a darker tone in a photograph because the textured surface now absorbs more lightrays. Objects become identifiable as such because of contrasts between them and their background. Camouflage
blending is the process of eliminating or reducing these contrasts. The principal contrast is that of tone, i. e., the dark
and light relationship existing between an object and its
background. The two principal means available for reducing this contrast or difference in tone are the application ofmatching coloration and the use of texturing. As an example of coloration effects, a light-colored aircraft on a lightcolored runway is most easily located by its shadow (1,fig. 11), while the same aircraft on a darker runway is easily
picked out through its own contrast with its background (2,fig. 11). If all color contrasts are reduced, a dark-colored
aircraft on a dark-colored runway is relatively inconspicuousor practically disappears from view (3, fig. 11). Installations
subject only to high aerial observation can best be concealed
by toning down contrasts in shade and color rather than byattempting complicated disruptive patterning. Poorly chosen
disruptive patterns tend to make the object more conspicuous
instead of concealing it.
f. Movement. Movement is the strongest factor in attracting attention. The eye is very quick to notice any movement in an otherwise
still scene. The aerial camera can record the fact that something has
moved when two photographs of the same area are taken at different
times (1 and 2, fig. 12). If an object has moved, the changed position
is apparent when the two photographs are compared.
g. Shine. Shine (fig. 13) is a particularly revealing signal to an
observer. Whenever light strikes a smooth surface such as windshields, headlights, mess gear, or a person's face, light may be reflected
directly into the observer's eye or the camera's lens with striking
emphasis.
20

1 Light colored aircraft on light colored runway
2 Light colored aircraft on dark colored runway
3 Dark colored aircraft on d(lark colored runway
Figure 11. Tontc con trast bt'ceen aircraft atud backgroundl.

21

Figure 12.

Movement.

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23

CHAPTER 3
PRINCIPLES AND METHODS OF CAMOUFLAGE
12. Factors in Concealment
No matter how applied, camouflage can be successful only by observing three fundamental requirements. These are the basic principles of camouflage: choice of position, camouflage discipline, andcamouflage construction.
a. Choice of Position. When choosing a position to gain concealment a background is chosen that will visually absorb the elementsof the position. The appearance of the background must be changed
as little as possible by the presence of individuals, weapons, or equipment, or both. The position selected must not hinder the accomplishment of the mission. With these requirements foremost in mind, a"natural" position is located; that is, a position that can be usedalmost as it is, such as a natural cover or a defilade. The terrain
should accommodate the layout of the installation when properly
dispersed. Isolated landmarks such as individual trees, haystacks,
or a house should be avoided because they attract attention to themselves. At times, by making use of background, complete concealment
against visual and photographic detection may be gained with noconstruction. In terrain where natural cover is plentiful, this is a
simple task. By taking advantage of terrain irregularities, eventhough natural cover is scarce, complete concealment may be gained
without added camouflage construction (fig. 14).
b. Camouflage Discipline.
(1) Daytime. Camouflage discipline is the avoidance of activity
that changes the appearance of an area or reveals military
objects to the enemy. A well camouflaged position is only
secure as long as it is kept well maintained. Concealment
is worthless if obvious tracks point like directional arrows
to the heart of the location or if signs of occupancy are permitted to appear in the vicinity (fig. 15). Tracks, spoil,and debris are the most common signs of military activity
that indicate concealed objects. Therefore, existing tracks,
paths, roads, or natural lines in the terrain are to be used.
Exposed routes are not to end at a position, but are extended24

Figure 14.

Position selected to take advantage of terrain irregularities.

to another logical termination. If practical, exposed tracks
are camouflaged by brushing them out, by covering themwith material, or where time permits by planting local vegetation. Spoil and debris are covered or placed to blend
with the surrounding terrain. Smoke from kitchen fires

must be controlled and dispersed.

1

Tracks of tank parked among trees
Figure15.

2

Tracks of supply vehicles to gun position

Obvious tracks revealing position.

25

(2) Night. Concealment at night is less necessary than in thedaytime. Therefore the enemy can use the cover of darkness to his advantage. He can do this much easier than hecan in daylight if he is given clues to guide him. Camouflage discipline thus becomes doubly important at night tokeep from attracting attention. Aerial photos taken atnight by light furnished by flares dropped from planes canpick up breaches of camouflage discipline which are more
likely to occur at night than during the day. Light discipline is very important at night. Sound discipline is always important. Noises seem magnified at night; clanking
gears or snoring may prove fatal. Calling to one another,talking, even whispering, should be kept to a minimum. By
far the most important phase of night discipline is light
discipline. Necessary work lights are to be shielded byusing them inside an inclosure, such as a lightproof tent or
bunker. Even on the darkest nights eyes grow accustomed
to the lack of light in approximately 30 minutes. Everytime a match is lit or a flashlight is used the eyes must go
through the complete process of getting adjusted to thedarkness again. Smoking is to be prohibited at night inareas of close proximity to the enemy because the light is
impossible to conceal. A cigarette light aggravates the situation by creating a reflection which completely illuminates the face (fig. 16).
(3) Sound. Sound can be lessened by precautionary measures.
Loud orders, talking, calling, and sneezing must be avoided.
Walking on hard surfaces should be avoided and full use
should be made of soft ground for digging. Hand signals
or signs should be used when possible. Individual equipment should be padded and fastened in such a manner as toprevent banging noises. Loading and unloading of vehicles must be accomplished in silence; every piece must be
carefully lifted and gently set down; and straw, wood shavings, or other muffling agents should be used for packaging.
It may become necessary to disconnect vehicle horns andshut off engines. The noise of engines and tracked vehicles
cannot be diminished while in movement. However, it canbe drowned out by the noise of artillery fire and planes andother loud noises created by sound simulators. In orderto prevent the enemy from locating gun positions, decoy
positions equipped with flash and sound simulators are to
be used. Troops used as decoys and equipped to simulate thesound of firing or for the use of simulator devices makesound ranging more difficult. If this system cannot be em26

ployed, other more elaborate battlefield noise and light deceptive devices should be employed. For additional information on noise and flash simulation, see FM 5-23.
c. Camouflage Construction. Camouflage construction is used fora camouflaged position that requires additional concealment. Camouflage construction is the employment of artificial and natural materials to help blend personnel and equipment with the surrounding
terrain. Artificial materials are manmade and include such items
as paint, wire, burlap, chicken wire, fiberglas, garnished nets ofvarious types and sizes, and osnaburg, a cotton cloth more closely

Figure 16. Light reflected on face revealing position at night.
woven than burlap. For additional information on artificial materials see FM 5-22. If proper choice of natural materials is madethey will resemble the surrounding terrain pattern in form and color.
One disadvantage is that after cutting, vegetation quickly fades,
wilts, and must be constantly replaced.
d. Blending Artificial Materials. If artificial materials are used
they must be arranged to blend with the surrounding terrain (fig. 17)
and must be capable of withstanding local weather conditions. Seasonal changes may require gradual alteration in the color or kind of27

Figure 17.

Artificial materials blending with surroundings.

material used. Construction must be hidden and work parties mustobserve camouflage discipline.
13. Camouflage Methods
There are three fundamental ways of concealing installations andactivity: by hiding, blending, and deceiving.
a. Hiding. Hiding is the complete concealment of an object.
The art of hiding (fig. 18) is to be mastered by every soldier.
b. Blending. Blending is the arrangement of camouflage materials on, over, and around an object so that it appears to be part ofthe background. The aim is to prevent detection of the object by achange in the natural appearance of the position. Because the worksof man are usually geometric in form, they present easily recognizedoutline and rectangular shapes and shadows which are very unlike
the average terrain in features. Blending (fig. 19) distinctive manmade objects into the normal terrain pattern is necessary in order torestore and simulate its normal and natural appearance.
c. Deceiving. Deceiving simulates an object or situation or disguises it so that it appears to be something else. Deception misleads
the enemy as to identity, strength, intentions, or activity; deception
divides his attack and draws his fire away from essential targets. Wellplanned and cleverly executed decoys are among the most effective
ways to deceive the enemy as to our strength, intention, and locationof positions. Pneumatic devices, called targets, have been manufac28

tured for use in the field and look like various vehicles and artillery
pieces (fig. 20). If these decoy devices are not available, units canmake expedient ones from materials at hand. For more information
on deception see FM 5-23.

Figure 18.

An example of hiding.

29

I-·~~~~~~m

,r

, k

8I
n~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
i~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~, I

Figure 19.

30

Blendi.

~~1

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~4--

Figure 20.

Deceiving by use of decolts.

31

CHAPTER 4GEOGRAPHIC FACTORS
Section I. TEMPERATE ZONE
14. General
When not otherwise specified, temperate zone terrain is to be assumed
in this manual. Desert, snow, and ice areas are mostly barren and-require much construction effort. Jungle and semitropical areas aremostly wooded and heavily vegetated and afford excellent concealment
with very little construction effort.

15. Seasonal Changes
The cycles of the seasons bring marked changes in vegetation, coloring, and terrain pattern requiring corresponding changes in camouflage. Concealment which is provided in wooded areas during thesummer is lost when leaves fall in the autumn. This will create a needfor additional camouflage construction. Where rainfall is heavy, provisions must be made to anchor flattop net posts. When ground isfrozen, counterbalances are used instead of pickets, or anchor stakes.
Camouflage construction must provide strength to support heavy loads
of snow in winter.

Section II. DESERT16. Concealment Factors
a. Lack of natural concealment, high visibility, and bright tone(smooth texture), all emphasize the need for careful selection of aposition. Deep shadows in the, desert (fig. 21), dispersion, strict
observance of camouflage discipline, and the skillful us, of deception
and camouflage materials aid in concealment of a unit in a desert area.
b. Desert areas (fig. 22) are not always flat, single-toned areas.
They are sometimes characterized by strong shadows with heavy
broken terrain lines and sometimes by a mottled pattern (fig. 23).
Each type of desert terrain presents its own problems. Because
shadows of equipment located in the desert are inky black and are instrong contrast to their surroundings, they are extremely conspicuous.
To minimize effect of these shadows, it is desirable to dig in equipment whenever possible. Some concealment is afforded by the
shadows of deep gullies and scrub growth.
32

o

A W,

.

Fiigtbre

<
.!

8

~

i* -

e't.s

'~~~~~~~~~~~ar

1

/''

.'S.,
Figoure 21.

-t

t'

'

d

>~ma* -';

Desert area presenting problems in concealment.

_

.

22.

Figure 22.

f

D

_

D~esert arears offeing

Desert are.

, ,.
1<S:
if~~~~~~~~

aidlemin concealmzent.

~~~~~~>~~

7:· · : ""eoferg aid in concealment.

;-;i3333

Vehicles concealed in mottled pattern in desert.

Figure23.

c. Many objects which cannot be concealed from aerial observation
can be effectively screened from ground view. Even though theseobjects are observed from the air, lack of reference points in theterrain will make them difficult to locate on a map. For example,
netting, garnished with naturalan antitank ditch covered with wire ~I·
is visible from the air because
terrain,material to match surrounding
Unaodg otono nitan dic'I":o attakdic
portinnd
camouflged
2
Coveredof their limited range
becausetanks,of its deep shadow, but attacking
itankditchnFigur 24~~.Caofae
from its surroundditch
often cannot distinguish theof observation,
34heiings (fig. 24). This is true also of well-camouflaged trenches.

",;:: .G3:-·.^~~kto~~~~~~~~~~~"'b·Fit`·;:`~j-- ,'A _ ,
-.

" :,

2

34

.

*

'

_ -__

.

_

._

-

d

A AA:A'A
A A

AA:

1 Uncamoufiaged portion of antitank ditch
Covered and camouflaged portion of antitank ditch
Figure 24. Camouflaged antitank ditch.

--

A

A

A,

*

Covered and irregularly positioned, they become much more difficult
to distinguish from the ground.
d. Siting a unit is the most important factor of concealment in thedesert (fig. 25). Full advantage must be taken of any terrain patternencountered. Slopes into valley floors are usually cut by dry washes
and offer limited defilade and natural concealment for vehicles andartillery. Valley floors in most deserts have little or no naturalconcealment. Occupation of dry washes and arroyos (deep gullies)
exposes the unit to the hazards of flash floods. High areas must be
used during rainy seasons.

J

Figure25.

V

Siting in the desert.

17. Artificial Materials
Suitably garnished drape nets are useful in concealing equipmentin the desert. The drape nets must be heavily garnished and aremost effective when tied in with the natural terrain features and usedover dug-in installations (fig. 26). The slope of screens to avoid
shadow-casting angles must be low and gentle for best protection.
Paint can be used to reduce tone contrast. Colors in desert areas
must generally be light, and simulated shadows must be very dark.

35

Figure26.

Drape net concealing equipment in the desert.

Section Ill. JUNGLE
18. General
The abundance of natural concealment, both overhead and at groundlevel, limits military observation to the ground view and, normally,at very close, almost hand-to-hand range. For these reasons camouflage in jungle operations is a more personal, individual effort than intemperate or desert climates. Wide use is made of natural concealment
by hiding, by blending with backgrounds and shadow patterns, and by
screening individuals and emplacements with natural materials (fig.
27). There are many opportunities for small-scale deceptive practices
such as simulated small arms fire and mortar fire. Overhead foliage
must be preserved, particularly in clearing fields of fire for weapons.
Slashings of jungle vegetation draw immediate attention from enemy
aircraft.

19. Combat Concealment
Jungle fighting requires the use of great stealth and taking advantage of the concealment offered by the jungle growth. Full advantage
of jungle growth must be taken to mask all operations and confuse,trap, and destroy the enemy.
36

Figurc 27.

('onecalnlcnt in the jlungle.

37Section IV. SNOW AND ICE
20. General
From the air, snow-covered terrain (fig. 28) is an irregular patternof white, spotted with dark tones produced by objects projecting above
the snow, their shadows, and irregularities in the snow-covered surface
such as valleys, hummocks, ruts, and tracks. It is necessary, therefore,
to make sure that dark objects have dark backgrounds for concealment,
to control the making of tracks in the snow, and to maintain the snow
cover on camouflaged objects. For camouflage purposes, the snow-

4,

w·i
-&0
-a
,d .

l

Lus

^~F'
.'.u

L1

'2 8 ,

Figure 8

Aerial view of snow-covered terrain.

covered ground can be divided into the main types of terrain listed
below.
a. Mountain Areas Above Timberline and Arctic Areas. Common
characteristics of these areas are an almost complete snow cover witha minimum of opportunities for concealment. Only a few dark objects
protrude above the snow. The exceptions to this are on very rugged
mountain peaks.
b. Mountain Areas Below the Timberline and Subarctic Areas.
Common characteristics of these areas are forests, rivers, lakes, andmanmade features such as trails and buildings. The appearance of38

c. Areas Between the Subarctic Zone and the Southern Boundary of
the Temperate Area. These have the same characteristics as thosegiven for b above.
21. Blending With BackgroundNo practical artificial material has yet been developed which will
reproduce the texture of snow sufficiently well to be a protection against
recognition by aerial observers. Concealment from direct groundobservation is relatively successful with the use of white snowsuits(fig. 29), white paint, and whitewash; these measures offer some
protection against aerial detection.

Figure 29.

Snowsuits and comparison between rifles, whitewashed anduncamouflaged.

22. Use of Decoys
Snow-covered terrain offers many possibilities for deceiving theenemy. If ski tracks are used for decoy purposes, the tracks should be
renewed occasionally to keep them looking fresh. The methods arecovered in FM 31-70.
23. Concealment Practices
Camouflage construction must be strong enough to support theweight of heavy snow loads (fig. 30), and the buffeting of high winds.
Tracks must be controlled because in snow they show up as lines ofdark shadows and it is almost impossible to obliterate them completely
by brushing or other means. Tracks should always be continued on
past installations to logical destinations. Cotton twine nets garnishedin white can be made up in the field from issue materials. When con39

STURDY POST AND WIRE MESHCONSTRUCTION
Figure 30.

Camouflage construction in snow regions.

ditions warrant, dark-colored garnishing materials can be interspersedwith the white fabric. The fine-meshed wire screening shown in figures
30 and 31 or feather-garnished white chicken wire are the most prac-

Figure 31.

40

Nets used to catch snowfall.

tical means for concealing supplies in a snow-covered area. The
following precautions are to be taken in snow areas:a. Care must be taken to muffle the sounds of moving men andequipment because sound carries farther in snow country.
b. In arctic regions the length of the hours of darkness assists inconcealing movement, but during extended periods of daylight concealing movement is extremely difficult.
c. Concealed movements can often be made successfully in arctic
regions during the frequent periods of cloudiness which hamper
aerial observation.
d. When tanks or other tracked vehicles turn quickly small moundsof snow are piled up and reveal the nature of the vehicle. Suchsnow mounds should be brushed out. If tanks turn slowly in a
gradual arc these snow mounds are not formed.
e. A road grader may be used to help obliterate tank tracks on
ice or a hard crust road surface.
f. Movement of troops and supplies, in the arctic during the summer months, creates quite a problem as far as concealment is concerned,
because of long periods of daylight. However, during twilight hours
movement of troops and supplies can be conducted successfully andwith considerably less chance of visual detection by enemy observers
because the eye automatically adjusts to the light of the bright sky,
reducing the contrast in the darker terrain. Maximum advantage
should be taken of the twilight hours. for such movements.
g. Because shine is often the only revealing feature of an object,
it is to be eliminated.
h. Full use should be made of terrain irregularities in the parkingof vehicles.
i. If white covers are not available, dark ones can be used if they
are covered with a layer of snow.
j. Thawing conditions are advantageous to camouflage since they
reveal dark patches and form a disruptive pattern.
k. The degree of whiteness of artificial materials used for camouflage in snow terrain must be carefully chosen. A tint of yellow
or red will betray the camouflage. White with a bluish tinge ispreferable. Fluorescent bleaches common to laundry detergents may
be used to increase the apparent whiteness of fabrics.

41

CHAPTER 5
USE OF NATURAL AND ARTIFICIAL MATERIALS
Section I. NATURAL MATERIALS AND THEIR USES
24. General
Any type of material indigenous to the locality of the site to be
camouflaged may be classified as natural material. Natural materials
consist of foliage, grasses, debris, and earths. These materials match
local colors and textures and when properly used are an aid against
both direct and indirect observation. The use of natural materials
provides the best type of concealment, is more economical, and reducestransportation requirements for artificial materials to and within thearea of operations. The chief disadvantage of natural foliage
materials is that they cannot be prepared ahead of time, are not always
available in usable types and quantities, wilt after cutting, and must
be replaced periodically. Foliage of coniferous trees (evergreens)retains its camouflage qualities for considerable periods, but foliagethat sheds leaves wilts in a day or less depending on the climate andtype of vegetation. The various types of materials used for camouflage purposes are described below.

25. Natural Materials
a. Live Vegetation. The principal advantage in the use of live
vegetation is its ability to reflect infrared waves and to blend in withsurrounding terrain. In some instances relatively large trees aretransplanted to furnish concealment; however, the planting or transplanting of plant material requires time, skilled labor, and an adequate
water supply, especially in the early stages. Live vegetation is permanent and, when firmly rooted, requires a minimum of maintenance.
Planted vegetation often takes considerable time to grow to a size
providing maximum concealment. For this reason its value is limited
in field use. Small trees and bushes can be potted successfully with nospecial skill or equipment if adequate water is available. In barren
areas, scrub growth is an excellent supplement to artificial garnishingon nets.
b. Grasses.
(1) Controlled mowting. The controlled mowing of grasses is atechnique sometimes included in camouflage plans of airfields
and rear area installations. Controlled mowing means mow42

ing one section or area all at the same height and in the same
direction; with adjacent areas of different heights and directions. This result produces effective changes in the color
and texture of the ground areas and makes them appear to be
fields with different crops (fig. 32).
(2) Toning. Grass may be toned to simulate fields by spraying with chemicals such as iron sulphate, sodium arsenite,or ammonium thiocyanate. The process must be carefully
controlled. The vegetation will be discolored, but the damage will be slight and temporary. After a period of a few- ;' , .:- .4:',, (ff.

Figure 32.

-. X-i%Ground patterning by controlled mowing.

days to a few weeks, depending on the rates of application
employed, the grass resumes normal growth. In the case ofammonium thiocyanate, the grass turns a rich deep green
following the burn, because of the nitrogen supplied by thespray. Asphalt emulsions and tannin dye also are suitable
for toning. Waste oil may be used, but it prevents growthof grass for several months after application. For more
information on toning, see FM 5-22.
43

c., Cut Vegetation.
(1) When cut vegetation is used as garnishihg or screening, it
must be replaced with fresh-cut materials or painted before
it has wilted sufficiently to change the color or the texture.
If vegetation is not maintained it is ineffective. Thorn
bushes, cacti, and other varieties of desert growth retain
growing characteristics for long periods after being cut.
Evergreens are also long lasting.
(2) The arrangement of cut foliage is important. The uppersides of leaves are dark and i-'axy, the under sides are"It

lit jLidr
Figure 33.

tesi.;

Placing cut foliage in a natural growing position.

lighter. In camouflage, therefore, cut foliage must be placed
as it appears in its natural growing state (fig. 33), top sideof leaves up and tips of branches toward the outside of theinstallation. Cut foliage must be matched to existing
foliage. For example, foliage from trees that shed leaves
must not be used in an area where only evergreens are growing. Foliage with leaves that feel leathery and tough should
be chosen. Branches grow in irregular bunches and, whenused for camouflage, must be placed in the same way. Whenbranches are placed to break up the regular, straight lines
of an object, only enough branches to accomplish this pur44

pose need be used; it is not necessary to cover the object
completely.
d. Use of Debris in Concealment. Debris furnishes valuable meansof concealment. Frequently it may be used just as it is found. Positions concealed by debris require little maintenance. Debris also
makes excellent decoys. Salvage aircraft, for instance, may be placedin partly concealed positions and, with the addition of simulated
activity nearby, make effective decoys. Rusty tin cans cut into strips
and combined with cloth and shaped to resemble plants can be used
to garnish wire nets.
e, Earths. Earth, sand, and gravel are used to change or add
color, provide coarse texture, simulate cleared spots or blast marks,
and create shapes and shadows.
(1) Earth. Earth, in mud form, provides good material for
tonedown of bright surfaces. With mud, the combat soldier
can quickly tone down his shoes, web equipment, and vehicle.
(2) Sand. Sand adhering to paint or oil provides means fortoning down vehicles in the desert. In the desert, dispersed
supply points of low and irregular outline covered by tarpaulins can be hidden effectively by covering them withsand.
(3) Gravel. Gravel is used to provide texture on roads, roofs,
and other flat surfaces (except runways).
Section II. ARTIFICIAL CAMOUFLAGE MATERIALS AND THEIR
USE

26. General
Artificial camouflage materials may be defined as issued or captured
materials which have been manufactured for the express purposeof camouflage. These artificial materials are not used until every
effort has been exhausted to conceal the object within the natural
terrain. Artificial materials are only an aid in helping to conceal
the object and they are used in conjunction with the basic principles
and methods of camouflage.

27. Artificial Materials
a. Coloring Materials. Coloring materials include paints, stains,and dyes. For further information see FM 5-22.
b. Wire. A particular advantage of both 10-gage and 16-gageissue-type wire is that it will not glare or shine if placed in the sun.
It is normally employed as follows:(1) Number 10 wire is used as a supporting wire for flattops,
as guys, and as strands for wire cable.
45

(2) Number 16 wire is used to attach the perimeter wire on flattops, to support natural material in an upright position, tosew burlap, and for wired paths. It can also be twisted into
cables.
c. Garnishing and Screen Material. Artificial garnishing has theadvantage of being relatively permanent, available through supply
channels, and prefabricated. Its color will not always match the surrounding terrain. This is especially true when pregarnished nets areused. In such cases, garnishing materials to match the terrain mustbe substituted. Of these, burlap garnishing is the best since it isvery loosely woven and therefore has a texture that is superior tothe other materials discussed. Burlap garnishing material is available in all standard camouflage colors except white, and osnaburgmaterial is available in all standard colors except black.
d. Supporting Materials. Nets and netting of the large-mesh typeare used extensively for screening materials. Nets are of no value
for concealment unless the openings are filled in and textured with
garnishing materials. Large-mesh nets of twine and netting of wire
are issued either garnished or ungarnished. The design of the nets
makes them adaptable for use in nearly all types of terrain, but they
are particularly useful in concealing weapons in barren or desert
areas where natural aids to concealment are lacking. The two mainclasses of supporting materials are wire netting and cotton twine nets.
(1) Wire netting. Wire netting (netting, camouflage wire,
steel) is issued in 6-foot-wide rolls of various lengths andis available either ungarnished or garnished with steel wool,feathers, glass fiber, or fabric. It is rustproof and fire
resistant and has less tendency to sag or deteriorate in use
than do the cotton twine nets. Because it is bulky andstiff, wire netting is not intended for numerous erections
and dismantlings in the manner that twine nets are employed by mobile units. In molded or shaped screens, hownever, it will hold a shape indefinitely and it is the bestcovering material for such use.
(2) Twine nets. Large-mesh twine nets are used as individual
camouflage drapes for equipment, as component parts of
camouflage net sets (drape-type), or as covers for flattops
in temporary installations. Twine nets shrink as they become wet and expand when drying out. Nets, when garnished as drape-type, are effective in concealing an object
from direct and aerial observation. Nets, when garnished
as flattops, are effective in concealing an object from aerial
observation.
46

28. Garnishing Patterns
There are 2 types of garnishing patterns used in garnishing twine
nets. The drape pattern (fig. 34) and the flattop pattern (fig. 35).
To provide for blending into a variety of seasonal and geographic
terrain characteristics, pregarnished nets are available in 2-color
blends, all-seasonal and desert. The overall color blend of a net isachieved by indiscriminately mixing the garlands of the various col-Figure 34. Drape pattern.

ors required for a particular blend and placing the garlands in the
net at random as an overall mixture of colors. Long straight runs,
large areas, or blocks of 1 color, or regularity of a color pattern in a
net should be avoided. In broken and mottled terrain patch garnishing is to be used to match the terrain pattern and in densely
wooded areas bow-tie garnishing is to be used.

47

29. Drape Nets
Drape nets (individual) are pregarnished twine nets, designed toprovide concealment for vehicles, tanks, trailers, other similar equipment, and installations. Properly garnished and properly employeddrape nets conceal from both air and ground level observation. The
low silhouette and gradually sloped sides of drape nets eliminate
sharp telltale shadows which are usually the most important factor
in ground target identification from the air. These drape nets areavailable in two seasonal blends: all seasonal and desert.

#

H

Figure 35. Flattop pattern.

30. Drape Net Sets
a. These pregarnished net sets consist of pregarnished nets, hardware, and necessary tools and equipment needed for erection. Eachcomponent net is so garnished that when assembled in the net set, asingle overall garnishing pattern is obtained. These net sets canbe quickly and easily erected. They are designed not only to conceal
equipment and weapons but also entire emplacements from all angles

48

of observation. This is necessary because each weapon has a characteristically shaped emplacement which is easily detected and identified, especially from the air. Thus the critical factor in determining
the size of the net or a net set to be used for a particular piece ofequipment is the emplacement rather than the equipment itself.
b. The scarred area in the immediate vicinity of the emplacement
must be covered for effective concealment. Freshly turned earth
usually is brighter than the untouched surroundings and can be detected even through the garnishing of a net, especially when the nets
are suspended close to the spoil. To make the fresh earth lessconspicuous it may be covered or toned down by colored tarpaulins,
sandbags, bushy vegetation, or other suitable materials.
c. In circular emplacements the areas outside the site beneath thedrape net set can be used for foxholes or ammunition storage. Support poles are conveniently placed in these areas to provide head
space and approaches to the pit. In rectangular emplacements, theside area outside the pit may also be used for these purposes.
EMBASURE SUPPORT POLE

OUTER GUY ROPEOUTERGUYROPE STAKESSUPPORT POLE CAP

INNER GUYROPE

INNER GUY ROPE STAKES

Figure36. Cutaway of typical drape net set.

d. The straight lines presented by the overall net set are to be
disrupted. This is accomplished by staggering support poles atvarious intervals and heights (fig. 36). Uniformity of appearance
in net sets is not desired because this in itself might furnish the necessary information to enable the enemy observer to detect the type andkind of emplacement.

31. Composition of Drape Net Sets
Garnished nets are held rigidly in place by guyropes. Poles of
1-inch steel tubing, with wire caps (fig. 36) are used to support the
nets over the weapons to be concealed. Each pole section is 4 feet
3 inches long. The poles are designed to be extended in segmentsof 4 feet by inserting 1 pole section into the pipe on the end of anotherpole section. The pole sections are held together by spring locks.
To prevent damage to the nets and to avoid a jagged or telltale outline caused by the appearance of sharp points at intervals along thenets, lightweight wire caps, shaped like inverted cups, are placed on
top of the poles. These caps have a diameter of 20 inches and areheld in place on the poles by 3 wire prongs which are designed to49release themselves automatically when the pole falls to the groundin order to prevent damage to the caps. Each drape net set is
equipped with quick-opening embrasures which bisect the lengthand in some cases the width of the set. These embrasures are located along the lines where the nets are joined and permit the nets
to be partially opened or dropped so that they will not interfere withelevating the tube of the weapon and will not be damaged by muzzle
blast or rocket blast.
32. Flattops
A flattop consists of a twine net (or chicken wire for more permanent installations) that is stretched parallel with the ground andFigure 37.

Flattop concealing firing position.

garnished with natural or artificial materials to blend with the surrounding terrain. When properly erected and garnished, the flattop
conceals from vertical and high oblique aerial observation (fig. 37).
The following points should be considered in planning the erectionof a flattop:
a. Flattops must be parallel with the ground. On a hillside, anerected flattop is to follow the slope of the hill. A flattop coveringa large area must have variations in the elevation to conform to theslope of the ground.
50

b. Flattops are suitable for flat-trajectory weapons such as machineguns.
c. Normally a flattop should be 11/2 to 2 feet above the top of theobject to be concealed to allow for visibility and activity under theflattop.
d. The area under the flattop should be matched to its surroundings
with sod, leaves, and other natural materials. Concealment is more
complete if the object is toned to blend with the surroundings.
e. Large permanent flattops are to be strong enough to support theweight of men engaged in repair and maintenance of the flattop.
The area to be concealed is staked off and wire or tape is installed toshow the limits of the emplacement and to prevent breaches of camouflage discipline that will disclose the position. Access paths areconstructed under cover or along natural terrain lines to prevent telltale tracks.
33. Height of Flattops
The closer that a flattop can be placed to the ground, the morechance it has to escape detection. A high flattop may not be disclosed in a single aerial photograph, but under stereoscopic examination it will appear to be floating in the air. Shadows cast by thegarnishing of a high flattop can be seen. For complete concealment
flattops should be no more than 3 feet above the general height of thevegetation at their edges. If the position does not permit this, theinstallation is to be dug in or the flattop is to be supplemented byslope nets or terracing.
34. Protective Area of a Flattop
A flattop should extend past the area to be concealed on each side
by a distance equal to-twice the height of the flattop above the ground.
This provides a margin to protect from high-oblique observation andto allow for thinning the garnishing at the edges. The outer areaof the net provides little concealment unless the net is used at groundlevel. Objects placed near the edge of the net must be concealed by asupplementary cover of vegetation, foliage, or sloped screens madefrom additional nets.
35. ScreensRoad screens may be used to conceal actual or decoy roads fromground observation, character and extent of movement along a road(fig. 38), and turnoffs and loading points on roads at supply points
and other installations. Only overhead screens are effective against
aerial observation (fig. 39).
a. Screens for concealing roadblocks from ground observation may
be made of any camouflage material; debris, vegetation, or properly
51

,

.

I~~~~~~~~~~~4~~~~Figure38.
Oonncealmgmvnde~
vredscreen
ln

52

r

oa d.fo rudobevoin

garnished artificial material. One technique is illustrated in figure
40. The purpose is to hide the block so that the enemy must makea choice either to crash the screen and risk what is behind it or tostop and investigate it. If he stops, he is vulnerable to fire. If hetries to run over it, he cannot take advantage of possible weak points
in the obstacle.
b. Vertical screens to protect bivouacs from enemy patrols are madeof natural materials blended with the background.

.g,$

2 Antitank mines
Figure 40.

4

~

o

/

, /

Screen on concertina wire

Concealing a roadblock from ground observation53

c. Vertical screens have a further use as deceptive devices in barren
areas, where they can mask gun positions from ground observation.
d. Another method of improving overhead concealment at such
points is to pull branches and small trees together at the top andfasten them with wire or rope.
e. Sides may be added to a flattop and sloped gradually to theground. These sides should not make more than a 15 ° angle with
the net; otherwise, a regular hard "ridge" line will be formed where
the sides join the large net and the sloped portion will differ in appearance from the horizontal part. They must be gradual extensionsof the top to form a sort of inverted shallow bowl with a flat bottom.
If the area to be covered is not too large, a dome-shaped slope screen
can be constructed (fig. 41). The dome shape is acquired by adding
uprights of intermediate height in line with the required vertical upCROSS- SECTIONAL WIREsiL

Figure 41.

/

.'

~.~ _

SMALL STRUCTURE

REQUIRED UPRIGHTINTERMEDIATE UPRIGHT

Cutaway drawing of dome-shaped screen.

rights and by running wire along the tops of these uprights, rising
gradually from stakes in the ground on one side, up and across the
middle of the curve, and down again on the opposite side. A uniform
and even-sloping surface is obtained by the addition of cross-sectionalor radial wires. There is little or no definite flat area in a dome typenet. The sides slope continually to gradual curves to form an angleof 150 or less with the ground, again forming an inverted shallow
bowl, but with a round bottom.
36. Smoke
Smoke is sometimes used to screen an operation such as a rivercrossing or to hide or reduce the visibility of large fixed installations
such as railroad yards or docks.
a. Methods of Smoke Screening. The use of smoke to protect reararea installations or activities requires production and maintenance54

of large clouds or screens over a broad area. The most satisfactory
method of accomplishing this, from the standpoint of economy ofmaterials and operating personnel, is by the use of oil. Vaporizationand condensation of special oils in a mechanical smoke generator produce a dense, persistent smoke with ample obscuring power to hidesurface objects from aerial observation.
b. References. For further information on smoke, see appendix I.
Section III. MAINTENANCE OF NATURAL AND ARTIFICIAL
MATERIALS
37. Pattern and Appearance
Camouflage training in the erection of drape nets and in the use ofnatural materials should include instruction in proper maintenance.
Maintenance of camouflage structures, such as drapes, which are always larger than the objects they conceal, is another vital part ofcamouflage discipline (par. 12). If they are permitted to sag, fade,or otherwise change their original appearance, they may easily bemore conspicuous than the unconcealed installation would be. In thesame way, natural materials must be renewed before they noticeably
wither or change color, which in summer may mean as often as twice
daily. Seasonal changes in the colors of the terrain must be anticipated, and the colors of artificial camouflage materials changed accordingly, by regarnishing or repainting. Plans must be made wellin advance and must be flexible because the time of change is variable
and may come suddenly.
38. Control of Activities
Signs of activity are generally the results of essential routine actions. Camouflage discipline techniques are intended either to control the performance of those actions in such a way as to prevent
visible changes in the appearance of the terrain or to make necessary
camouflage changes to mislead the enemy observer or photointerpreter. Damage from accident or enemy action must be repaired
without delay.
Section IV. DISRUPTION OF FORM
39. General
Disruption of form is accomplished by adding irregular outlines toregularly shaped objects and by using disruptive patterns of paintand other materials (fig. 42). Paint is the most commonly usedmaterial. Disruption of form is not a positive preventive against
direct observation or aerial photography, but it aids in confusing theaim of a bombardier, tank gunner, or rifleman and in many instances
will deceive an observer.

55

Figure 42. Disruptive pattern painting.

40. Silhouettes
Disruption of the outlines, shapes, and shadows of tents and temporary buildings is aided by the use of silhouettes usually attached tothe edge of roof surfaces or tents. They must be irregular and conspicuously clear. Materials such as plywood or stiff chicken-wiregarnished frames have the necessary firmness and durability. Scaffolding, nets, or framed decoy structures are also used as describedin FM 5-22.

41. Pattern Painting
a. In pattern painting, the object is painted 2 or 3 contrastingcolors, applied in irregular shapes. Colors should be similar to thepredominant colors in the object's surroundings. Objects are painted
darker on top and lighter below, for the reason that upper parts
receive and reflect more light. This principle is especially importantin vehicle painting. Patterns should extend around corners and overvulnerable points.
b. There is no definite rule governing pattern sizes. They dependon the size of the object, the size and type of the surroundings, andthe type and range of enemy observation. When seen from a distancesmall patterns blend into one overall color, and do not destroy theshape of the object. Small differences in color cannot 'be distinguished by aerial observers, and, therefore, small patterns are ineffective.
56

c. Painted patterns alone do not give reliable concealment. To beeffective the object must be seen against the background for which
the colors have been chosen.
d. Disruptive painting of vehicles is tactical protection. It is
protective coloration intended to conceal vehicles in well-selected
positions. The following basic color schemes are recommended for
painting patterns on military objects:(1) Temperate zone. Olive drab, field drab (or other light color
to match terrain), black.
(2) Desert. Sand or earth yellow, earth red (or other lightcolor to match terrain), black.
(3) Snow or ice area. White, olive drab, or a combination ofboth colors depending on the color needed to blend withthe predominant background color.

57

PART TWO
FIELD CAMOUFLAGE
CHAPTER 6
INDIVIDUAL CAMOUFLAGE
42. General
Individual camouflage is that personal concealment which a soldier
uses in combat to surprise and deceive the enemy. The ground is thesoldier's observation post, jumn)poff point for attack, obstacle, route ofadvance, and means of fortification and protection. He must know
how to use the ground for effective concealment (fig. 43). He adapts
his dress for the best concealment while in the firing position, andcarefully selects his routes between positions for as much concealment
as possible (fig. 44). The simple principles in this manual have beenbattle-tested. If the soldier learns and practices them continuously
in training, he will know what to do about concealment in battle.

Figure 43.

Individual concealment in a firing position.

59

J. -5

1

Unconcealed

route of approach

Figure 44.

2-

Route affording best concealment in movement

Selection of route in advancing.

43. Enemy Observation
Camouflage activities of the individual aredesigned to deceive two-types of enemy observers-ground observers and air observers. Views
from the ground are familiar and commonplace, but views from theair are different. Many things that are invisible from the groundcan be seen from the air. The differences in appearance of different
types of terrain views from the air as compared with their appearance from the ground can be used as a basis for achieving camouflage. Methods of protection from observation from the air can belearned in this manner. It can be expected that the enemy will use
electronic surveillance devices, suckf as radar, to increase the range ofview and to penetrate screening devices.

44. Concealment in Various Geographic Areasa. General. Effective concealment of the individual depends
largely on the choice and proper use of background. · Backgroundvaries widely in appearance, and trie soldier may find himself in, ajungle setting, in a barren or desert ar'ea, in a farmyard, or a 'city
street. Each location will requiretirdividual treatment because'·ocation governs every concealment measure taken by the individual.
60

Clothing which blends with the predominant color of the backgroundis desirable. The uniform is designed to be as inconspicuous as possible under most conditions. There will be occasions, however, when
the uniform color must be altered to blend with a specific background.
The color of the skin must receive individual attention and be toned
to blend with the background (fig. 45). Equipment must be treatedsimilarly; shine must be eliminated and contrast in tone reduced as

1

Figure45.

Wrong

Skin tonedown.

much as possible. Practice during training should be continued until
the individual automatically blends with his background, avoids
contrast, and does not present a silhouette.
b. Individual Camouflage (Jungle). Certain individual preventive measures in the jungle are most important. The close proximity of the enemy makes sound, light, and movement revealing anddangerous. Special care is necessary in moving forward to avoid
61

2

Right

Figure 45-Continued.

springing enemy traps or otherwise giving warning. Backgroundsilhouette is to be avoided. Skin is to be covered to eliminate shine.
Metal gear is to be toned down to eliminate shine (fig. 46).
c. Individual Camouflage (Snow).
(1) Troops operating in open areas covered with snow shouldwear the complete white camouflage snowsuit (fig. 47). If
the snowsuits are not available a snow cape may be fashioned
62

Figure46.

Shine.

63

from white cloth or white osnaburg. Individual and crewserved weapons should be whitewashed or painted whitewith a semigloss paint or wrapped with strips of white cloth.
Normally if white camouflage is necessary the helmet will becovered by the white parka hood which eliminates the necessity for whitening the helmet. Figure 48 illustrates how
inconspicuous a camouflaged soldier appears as comparedwith a soldier without a snow cape.
(2) Troops operating in a heavily wooded area under normal
conditions require only the white camouflage pants (fig. 49).

Figure 47. Troops wearing snowsuits.

However, following or during a heavy snowfall when thetrees are well covered with snow, the wearing of the complete
white camouflage suits is necessary to properly blend withbackground (fig. 50). Auxiliary equipment, such as packs,
should be covered with white material or painted white.
Ski equipment should be painted white because the skis are
kept in snow even when men are in a static defense position.
45. Helmet
The outline of the helmet is oneof the striking characteristics ofthe soldier'ees equipment. Its curved shape is familiar to the enemy.
individualistodisrupt the
One of the first steps in camouflage
64
6i

Figure49.

Iniviual

conealed in forest area.
65
65

shape of the helmet and thereby eliminate the strong, straightlined
shadow that it casts. The following ways of disrupting the shapeof the helmet and reducing its shine or contrast can be employed.
The choice of method depends on the tactical situation and time andmaterials available.

Figure50.

Individuals after heavy snowfall.

a. Paint. A disruptive paint pattern is to be used on the helmet(fig. 51). Care is to be taken to carry the pattern across the curvedlines to the edges, especially those seen from the front.
b. Bands. Rubber bands can be used as holders for garnish ofnatural materials (fig. 52). A band cut from a discarded inner tube
makes a good expedient for the issue band. Bands are not to be66

placed too high on the helmet. Strips of cloth are acceptable expedients. When natural materials are not available or not advisable for
garnish, the shape of the helmet is to be disrupted with bow ties
(fig. 53) made of burlap or osnaburg. They should be small enoughso that they do not readily catch in bushes or branches and large
enough to disrupt the form of the helmet.
c. Helmet Co'vers. An improvised cover can be made for the helmet from a circular piece of osnaburg, burlap, or other coarse-weave
cloth. Burlap being the best, helps to tone down the color of thehelmet, disrupts its shape, and eliminates shine. The circular pieceshould be 20 inches in diameter. A 1-inch hem is sewn around the

Figure 51.

Disruptive painting applied to steel helmet.

edge, a tape or drawstring is pulled through the hem, and the coveris pulled loosely onto the helmet. It should be painted or smearedwith mud to break up the continuous tone. Slits are to be cut in the
cover to allow for the insertion of foliage (fig. 54) as in the issue
cover. No matter what kind of helmet cover is used, it is incomplete
if the shadow underneath the helmet is not broken up by arranging
bits of foliage or other garnish so that pieces of it hang over the rimof the helmet. Small irregular fringes of cloth, similarly arranged,
will accomplish the same purpose and will, at the same time, keep
gnats and mosquitoes away from the face and neck (fig. 55).
67

46. Skin Tonedown
The contrast in tone between the skin of face and hands and thatof the surrounding foliage and other background must be reduced.
The skin is to be made lighter or darker, as the case may be, to blend
with the surrounding natural tones. The issue face paint stick may
be used whenever natural materials are not available. The shine
areas are the forehead, the cheekbones, nose, and chin. These areas

A.

!'

Figure 52.

Helmet concealed by use of natural material held in place byrubber band.

should have a dark color. The shadow areas such as around theeyes, under the nose and under the chin should have a light color(fig. 45). The hands, arms, and any other exposed areas of skinmust also be toned down to blend with the surroundings. Burnt cork,
charcoal, lampblack, and mud call all be used as toning materials.
Because soils contain harmful bacteria, a medical officer will determine which soils are safe for use. A mesh mosquito face net, properly toned down, is an effective method of breaking up the outlines
68

~$·' i

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I--·a-_,i_X]~~~~~~~~~~~~:·
11;~~~~~~~~~~I|.
g E . Zi·511a
II
Figure 53.

Bow ties used to break up the,shape of the helmet.
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vr my:
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Fiue5.Saeo
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Sa
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hle

irpe
irt

~5~··:5"1::~"'~ra~Rlucrr-69

y aua
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oE
a

aei2

of the face and ears. Such a net can be dyed in strong coffee whenmanufactured dye is not available.
47. Canvas Equipment
Clean canvas equipment is correct for inspections, but in combat
such equipment violates the principles of camouflage (1, fig. 56).
Patches of higher or darker color are easily spotted. One of thefirst tasks in dressing for the job of fighting is to reduce the contrast
in tone between the equipment and the surroundings. This will re-:i 'Figure55.

Helmet camouflaged with burlap oover.

quire darkening the equipment in some instances and making it
lighter in tone in others -(2, fig.-56). Reducing tone contrast can bedone with paint, cloth, mud, chkarcoal, or any other suitable substancethat is available.

48. Camouflage Clothing
Individual concealment requires only a little planning and thought,
and the use of materials at hand. This applies to camouflage forclothing as well. The soldier can make his own camouflage suit,70

1Light equipment producing vivid contrast

Figure 56.

2

Darkening equipment aids concealment

Reducing tone contrasts between equipment and the 8urrounding8s.

71adapting its color and form to the situation and the terrain. Anycoloring material can be used: Dyes, crankcase oil, or even a mixtureof mud and cup grease. The important thing is to make the clothes
look more like the terrain than like a uniform. The personal camouflage is just a beginning in the job of concealment. Camouflage
clothing and camouflaged equipment alone won't conceal, but must
be used intelligently in accordance with the basic principles of camouflage and the principles of scouting and patrolling. The following
paragraphs of this chapter explain how to take advantage of terrain
with the use of camouflaged clothing.

49. Snowsuits
The Army snowsuit is a two-piece garment, plain white, designed
to blend with a white or mottled white and black background (fig.

13X

.

..

.
Figure 57.

View of snow country.

47). Because snow country is not all white (fig. 57), shadows anddark objects appear darker than usual. The snowsuit cannot conceal the small.patches of shadow caused by the human figure, butthat is not necessary if the background, too, contains numerous darkareas. If the background does not contain numerous dark areas,
maximum use is to be made of defiles, snowdrifts, and folds in the
ground to aid the individual concealment.
7250. Blending With the Background
Losing the body's silhouette in the silhouettes of other objects
in the background is accomplished by making use of the shadowsin the background. The soldier should be constantly aware of these
two factors, silhouette (fig. 58) and shadow (fig. 59). From a concealment point of view backgrounds consist of terrain, vegetation,manmade objects, sunlight, shadows, and color. The terrain may
be flat and smooth or it may be wrinkled with gullies, mounds, orrock outcroppings. Vegetation may be dense jungle growth, or no

Figure 58.

Silhouette.

more than small patches of desert scrub growth. The size of manmade objects may range from a signpost to a whole city block. Theremay be many colors in a single background, and they may vary fromthe almost black of a deep woods to the sand pink of some desert valleys. Blending means simply the matching with as many of thesebackgrounds as possible and the avoidance of as much contrast as
possible (fig. 60). If it is necessary for a soldier to expose himself
in front of a contrasting or fixed background, he must be aware ofhis position and take cover in the shortest possible time. The next
point to which he will move for concealment must be selected inadvance and reached as quickly as possible.
73Figure 59.

Shadow.

51. Silhouette
Although the soldier shown in figure 61 blends with the ground, heis sharply silhouetted against the sky. Such clearly defined edges
must be avoided. The correct way to look over the bank is from the
midst of objects that are irregular in shape and that can conceal(fig. 62).

52. Action at NightAs in the daytime, silhouette and background are still the vitalelements in concealment. A silhouette is always black against a nightsky, and care must be taken at night, as in the daytime, to keep off
the skyline. On moonlit nights the same precautions must be taken
as in daylight. It should be remembered that the position of the74enemy observer, and not the topographic crest, fixes the skyline. At
night sound is an amplified, revealing signal. Movement must be
careful, quiet, and close to the ground. If the pop of a flare is heard
before the illuminating burst a soldier must drop to the groundinstantly and remain motionless. If he is surprised by the light, hemust freeze in place, with his face down.

53. Movement
Routes must be carefully chosen, whether by day or by night.
Screens, backgrounds, and shadows must be used to the fullest advantage. A daylight route is shown in 1, figure 63. This choiceof route assumes that there is fairly adequate concealment offered byundergrowth and shadow. Under favorable conditions it is possible

Figure 60.

Blending with background.

75

Ftu~e61;~~~~~

eyu~a~edtofo-ev
Imrve
r

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U,

-r-

i

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~J4
Pi~~gnre
Proper 62.
concealment of observer",i~'76~~~~iS~a~&rJ·a~~·;~~~:

for the enemy to see as much as 100 yards into an open woods. In
the case of light undergrowth the route must be farther into thewoods for safety. Woods with medium undergrowth also furnish
many good observation points. Heavier undergrowth is an obstacle
to movement, and, where rapid movement is more important than fullconcealment, the outside edge of the woods may be the most desirable
route. Where only a hedge or fence is available, movement is to bein the shadow of the hedge or fence. The route shown in 2, figure
63, would be used on a dark night only. A dark night furnishes
shadow, and a route is also chosen to provide concealing background.i~it~

1

Daylight route

Figure 63.

2

Route on a dark night

Selection, of routes.

and to avoid the skyline. On bright, moonlit nights the shadow
along the edge of the woods is probably the best route. It is difficult
to walk quietly in the woods at night. Low places in the terrainoffer temporary concealment. In any plan the mission must always
be considered first, then the other factors, ease of movement, amountof shadow, and types of background. Each factor should be evaluated and the most feasible route determined. Targets are easily
recognized at night because natural materials reflect a large quantityof infrared waves and artificial materials such as the uniform andother materials do not. The only protection against detection atnight is to keep close to the ground and with the use of natural materials in concealing position and movement.
7754. Points to Remember
The following instructions summarize this chapter and are basic
to good individual camouflage. As such they should be followed at
all times. This paragraph should be used as a checklist to determine
the completeness of individual camouflage application.
a. Concealment is to be effective and protect from hostile observation from the ground view as well as from the air view.
b. Natural terrain lines are to be used for the advance wheneverpossible.
c. Varying speeds are to be used in moving: quickly across open
areas, slowly along natural lines of concealment, and alternately fastand slow across neutrally colored areas.
d. The area in front is to be observed carefully from the concealment of low bushes; look through or under them, not over.
e. Every possible feature of the terrain is used for concealment.
f. A place is found in which observation to the front is possible;
a good field of view is important.
g. The next stopping point is located and the best route to it isdetermined before starting out.
h. A silhouette against the sky is to be avoided. When it is necessary to cross the skyline at a high point in the terrain, crawl to it
and approach the crest slowly using all natural concealment possible.
How the skyline is to be crossed depends on whether it is likely thatthe skyline at that point is under hostile observation. When a choiceof position is possible, the skyline is crossed at a point of irregularshapes such as rocks, debris, bushes, or fencelines.
i. Every effort is to be made to reduce tone contrast and eliminate
shine. Generally speaking, these are the two features which set theindividual off from his surroundings: the shine of his equipment andthe difference in tone between his skin and the background. This isespecially true at night.
j. A position is chosen with easy access to and from a point ofadvantage for the individual or the unit. The appearance of theplace is to be kept as unchanged as possible. Every bush, shrub,
tree, and pile of debris must be occupied in such a manner as to leave
it undisturbed. Changes in pattern and motion in parts of a normallystatic landscape are attention-calling signals to the trained observer.
The individual must come and go without advertising his presence.
When leaving a stopping point it should be left as it was before,
without signs of former occupancy.

78

CHAPTER 7
FIELD FORTIFICATIONS
Section i. EMPLACEMENTS
55. Site Selection
Proper site selection is the most important consideration in planning field fortifications. However, to serve in their fullest capacity,
field fortifications and obstacles are to be camouflaged in such a

Figure 64.

Camouflage task made easier by proper site selection.

manner that they are a complete surprise to the enemy. The camouflage task is made easier by proper site selection (fig. 64).
a. Field fortifications are sited to take advantage of the terrain
and at the same time permit camouflage which is vital for the security and stability of these installations. A position is selected thatwill not require a change in the appearance of the terrain. Consideration of the camouflage aspect will save time and labor in effecting good concealment. To reduce ground observation, a position
should be located with a good background so that occupants are notsilhouetted (fig. 65). Field fortifications or obstacles cannot be concealed solely by siting, but when proper advantage is taken of the
79

1
2

Position located with good background
Framework for cover added

Figure 65.

3
4Garnishing with natural materials
Completed position; ready for firing

Mortar position sited for good camouflage and support of unit
mission.

terrain, positions can be rendered inconspicuous from ground observation. To reduce the possibility of aerial observation, regular
geometric layouts of positions are to be avoided, and decoys and dummies are to be used to confuse the enemy. Positions are to be locatedunder trees, bushes, or in dark areas of the terrain. However, locations should not be isolated to the extent of being a landmark or anaiming point (fig. 66).
b. Postponing erection or construction of field fortifications isoften the best way to camouflage a position. However, where theenemy has nuclear employment capabilities, the erection or construction is not to be postponed.
56. Camouflage Construction
a. General. Before any excavation is started, all natural materials necessary for camouflage construction, such as turf, sod, leaves,
forest humus, or snow are removed (fig. 67). This material is placedor scraped aside, so as not to interfere with the digging of the position, and replaced over the spoil when the work is completed (2, fig.
68). Spoil that is not used is carried away (1, fig. 68), and dumped
in a concealed place such as under bushes and low trees. Concealment is vital during camouflage construction. To prevent detection80

of camouflage construction that has little or no overhead cover, camouflage nets are suspended above the position (fig. 69). The nets
are placed so as to permit unhampered excavation work. Workers
confine their activities to the area beneath the camouflage. (For

Figure 66.

Typical isolated landmarks.

additional information on nets, see ch. 12.) Construction of tallobjects such as observation towers or water towers in predominantsnow areas, desert or barren areas, or sparsely vegetated areas is to
be avoided.
81

b. Wooded Areas. Positions in wooded areas are sited to takeadvantage of natural concealment. Full use is made of natural
materials, such as boughs of trees, grass, and other forest vegetation(figs. 70 and 71). Constant maintenance of the camouflage is necessary to keep the position looking natural (fig. 72).
c. Desert Areas. Field fortifications in the desert must takeadvantage of the irregular terrain pattern, terrain depressions, andthe sparse vegetation that is available. Shadows are a greater threat

Figure 67.

Removing natural camouflage material before construction of
positiont.

in barren sandy desert areas than in other areas. Camouflage covers(par. 57) can be used to good advantage.
d. Jungle Areas. Abundant vegetation is available for camouflage construction in jungle areas. Because of this abundant vegetation, observation is close range and, therefore, more individual
effort is required. Foliage is preserved whemi fields of fire are clearedby selective cutting and trimming of vegetation. Wanton slashingwill draw immediate attention to any position (figs. 73 and 74).
e. Snow Areas. The individual should take advantage of snowbanks, defilades, and lea or sheltered areas of large objects (figs. 75
and 76). Camouflage covers (par. 57) may be used to provide a82

base for falling snorw which will increase the concealment of theposition.

57. Camouflage Covers
Camouflage covers are essential for positions that cannot be sitedunder natural concealment and are a valuable aid in preventing detection of the position. Natural materials native to the site are used
to a good advantage (fig. 77). Artificial or manufactured material
may be used if garnished or pattern-painted to match terrain features.
Covers made from these natural or artificial materials for hasty field
fortifications are light in weight so that they can be removed easily(fig. 78). Firing openings are provided for in the cover.

\w\(DSPOIL~\

BEING CONCEALED(QSPOIL BEING REMOVED
Figlure 68.

CORRECTLY

CORRECTLY

Spoil.

83

Figure 69. Work being done on bunker, using net to conceal activity.

Figure 70.

84

Concealed fomhole.

Concealed weapon emplacement.

Figure 71.

r'

i~~~~

~~~

,,~~~~~~'~
1

Figure 72.

fi:I

.~:

.

Withered plants and grass that need mai~ntenance.

85

86

Figure 73.

Foxrhole in jungle.

Figure 74.

Dugout in jungle.

Figure75.

Emaplacement in snow area.

Figure 76.

Foxhole in the snow.

87

~~~~Tha

Figure 77.

1

Figure 78.

88-~~~~~~~~~~~iCover of naturalmaterial.

Net closed over position

Cover made from net garnished with natural and artificial materials
and easily dropped for firing.

a. Foxhole Covers. The foundation of a foxhole cover (fig. 79)
is a flat or round frame shaped from short branches bound together
with available materials. Covers of burlap, corrugated iron, or wood
may be used for the foxhole (fig. 80), but any type of cover usedshould be kept looking natural to blend with terrain patterns.
b. Emplacement Covers. Emplacement covers are constructed ona much larger scale. Due to the size of the position, sturdier materials are used for the frame to support a greater amount of natural
camouflage such as large plants, limbs of trees, or snow (fig. 81).
Flattop or drape nets are also used to good advantage if natural
materials are not available or the cutting of natural materials would
reveal the position (fig. 82).

2

Net open for firing

Figure 78-Continued.

89

?a

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, J~ .,, .,j/'~,, ,~, ,,,,~,~ ,,, ,.
.
-- ~,,~-. cr\.,~.~:,~---x.

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Figure 79.

90

Foxhole cover.

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91

_Z~~~~~~~~~~,

Figure 81.

.S

,.-

Machine gun emplacement using logs to support natural camoullage.

t'

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Figure 82.

92-'

Emplacement using net cover.

Section II. INDIVIDUAL WEAPONS
58. Weapon Outline
The individual weapon must be concealed to complete the camouflage of a position. Weapon outline and shiny surfaces are the two
factors involved in concealment of the weapon by camouflage. The
rifle, carbine, machine gun, and recoilless and antitank weapons havedistinctive outlines that 'are easily identifiable (fig. 83). Conceal-

Figure 83.

Silhouette of machine gun.

ment of the weapon by digging it in to present a low silhouette or
by use of nets or natural cover are excellent methods. However, thetactical situation does not always permit sufficient time for thesemethods. Therefore the weapon outline has to be concealed by othermeans. One of the simplest ways to distort the outline of the weapon
is by wrapping it with standard burlap garnishing or strips of cloth(fig. 84) dyed to match the surrounding terrain. Foliage placed on
various parts of the weapon is another field expedient but is difficult
to maintain when the weapon is operational. Pattern painting of

Figure 84.

Rifle wrapped with cloth.

93

/Figure85.

DARK AREA: BLACK
LIGHT AREA: NATURAL COLOR

Rifle patternpainted.

the weapon (figs. 85 and 86), using colors that blend with terrain features, is another excellent method of camouflage used to distort the outline of the weapon. Any type of camouflage used must
not interfere with the tactical effectiveness of the weapon.
DARK AREA: BLACK
LIGHT AREA: GUN METAL

Figure 86.

Machine gen, pattern painted.

59. Shiny Surfaces
Shiny surfaces of the weapon can be concealed by various field
expedients; cloth and paint, mentioned above, not only distort outline
but can also be used to cover the shiny surfaces of the weapon. Mudor lampblack is also used to cover these surfaces (fig. 87). Mud usedmust dry to the desired color. Care must be exercised in the application of the mud to prevent stoppages in the sighting and firing of
the weapon.

94

Figure 87.

Covering shine on weapon with mud.

95

CHAPTER 8
VEHICLES
60. General
Application of the basic camouflage principles outlined in chapter
3 are just as important in concealing vehicles as preventive maintenance is to the operation of the vehicle.

61. Tracks
Tracks of vehicles are especially revealing to the aerial observer
and the interpreter of aerial photographs. Single tracks of vehicles
and the gradual turn of the track of tanks are clearly visible. Tracks
reveal type, location, strength, and even intentions of the unit. Responsibility for maintaining the normal appearance of the terrain
rests with the operator or driver of the vehicle. Tracks should follow
closely and be parallel to hedge lines, fence lines, cultivated lines, or
natural terrain lines if naturally concealed roads do not exist (fig.
88) or if road screens are not in use. Tracks should always continue
past real installations to a logical destination (fig. 89).

62. Concealment in Movement
Completely concealed routes are rarely found. Even the comparatively small amount of timber that is cut to clear a roadway reveals
the road to the aerial observer. However, partially concealed roads
are better than exposed roads and are to be used when possible. Gapsin overhead cover may be concealed by erecting overhead screens of
natural or artificial material or a combination of both (fig. 90). All
routes should be marked in advance and guards posted to insure thatno deviation from the marked routes occurs (fig. 91).

63. Dispersion of Vehicles
Dispersion serves two purposes; it aids in concealment of the vehicles and it reduces the possibility of damage to the vehicles frombombing or strafing (ig. 92). Distance between vehicles depends on
the terrain and the tactical situation.

64. Shine
Shine may nullify even the best site or track discipline. Shine canexist when there is natural or artificial light in the sky. Shine may
come from any part of a vehicle, and can be revealed through any of96

z~~~~~~~~~RIGHT

WRONG ,i'-31;Figure88.

.'l1:

Blending tracks with terrain.

97

LtLL

L

Figure 89.

98

Tracks ending at logical destination.

Figure 90.

Screen concealing road.

99
99

RIGHT

WRONG

(II

fi(

D

Insufficieners cut dispersion;,ofvehicles
three

newly

mrtde

8

i

Inconspicuousng
tracks usto
head covertracks point to position
Figure 92.

100

Use of terrain and dispersion.

forcultivatedaccessld

the numerous gaps which exist in overhead concealment.
concealed by using natural or artificial materials (fig. 93).

Shine is65. Shadow
Use of shadow is the primary step in the concealment of vehicles.
The concealing shadows cast by objects such as buildings, trees, androck formations can be used to good advantage (fig. 94). However,vehicles must be moved during the daylight hours to keep themwithin the concealing shadows. The overall outline and the shad-

Figure 93.

Shine concealed by natural moterials.

owed areas, such as underneath fenders and the open back of the
cargo space, are to be concealed. The shadow cast by the vehicle
itself is thus eliminated because this shadow reveals and identifies
the vehicle (fig. 95).

66. Site Selection
Selecting an advantageous site in the terrain pattern enables vehicles to occupy an area without altering the appearance of the terrain. Vehicles are parked under natural cover wherever it isavailable (fig. 96). In an area of inadequate cover, vehicles are101

parked so that the shape of the vehicle with the aid of a garnished
net appears to be a natural part of the terrain (fig. 97). Drivers ofvehicles must learn how different types of terrain appear from the air,
before they can properly site their vehicles. The main types of terrain consist of areas which are wooded, agricultural, urban, or desert
and barren. Vehicles are sited to take advantage of different patterns found in these areas.
67. Wooded Terrain'Wooded terrain because of its irregular pattern provides excellent
concealment (fig. 98) for a vehicle and its tracks. To preserve thenatural appearance of wooded terrain, vehicles must be dispersedand parked at varying angles and at unequal distances. Vehicles

Figure94.

Use of shadow.

can be pattern painted, partially covered by dark canvas, or completely covered with small trees or branches (fig. 99).

68. Agricultural Terrain
The dominant characteristic of an agricultural pattern is a networkof lines: fencelines, hedge lines, cultivation lines. A high degree ofconcealment is obtained if vehicles are dispersed parallel to terrain
lines so that the lines remain more prominent than the vehicles (fig.
88).

69. Urban Terrain
The pattern of cities, towns and villages affords many opportunities for concealment (fig. 100). Urban areas usually provide large
shadow areas and some overhead cover. The wall lines of buildings
102

UX

_

Ma~~~~~~~~

0

~

~

In

Y

=

3c

a~

e~

~~ ~~~~~~'
F

.if

_

:

~~~~~~

0'0

sIF

Y

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'
-1~103

v,

v,

103

can be used in the same way as hedge lines were used in agricultural
pattern. Screens can be attached to roofs or eaves of buildings to
aid in the concealment of vehicles.

70. Desert or Barren Terrain
When time and spoil permit, every effort must be made to dig inimportant vehicles. Digging-in aids concealment and reduces thepossibility of damage from bomb and shell fragments (fig. 101).

Ftgure 96.

Vehicle under natural cover.

71. Snow and Ice Areaa. Snow-covered terrain is seldom all white. The snow patternnormally is broken up by dark areas such as woods, scrub growth,and shadowed areas made by irregularities in the ground. Patternpainting of vehicles in partial snow areas aids greatly in siting(fig. 102). In all snow terrain the vehicle may be painted all whiteor covered with whitewash (fig. 103). White osnaburg may be
used to drape over the vehicle to facilitate siting.
b. Tracks are a major obstacle to good siting in snow and ice
areas. In even light snow, tracks make strong shadow lines. Sharp
104

I

_,-

Figure 97.

*'vZi

4,.

Vehicle concealed with aid of net.

v

:

i~K

Figure 98.

Ai

Tank concealed in wooded area.

105

V

/

Figure99.

Truck concealed by use of canvas and branches.

turns by vehicles should be avoided because ridges of snow castheavy shadows. Whenever possible, vehicles should follow shadow
casting terrain lines, staying on the side where shadows are constantthroughout the day. It is important that all vehicles keep to thesame tracks. Short lengths of tracks which are not too deep may
be trampled down with snowshoes.

1
Figure 100.

106

wrong

Vehicles parked in urban area.

t~j~jjRIGH T

4

A-ii

2

Right

Figure 100-Continued.

c. Dark shadows stand out clearly in snow and ice areas. Shadows are distorted or concealed by use of natural materials, by siting
so vehicle shadows fall on the dark vegetation or another shadow,
or by use of drape nets garnished to match the terrain.

AL-

Figure 101.

Camouflaging a dug-in vehicle.

107

i·2~

mi

V

~

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3wX3
-jr
fi

f

Figure 102.

''so

~

Vehicle in partial snow area.

*W,3>

>

!Lot;
.>,.¢
Is

Figure 103.
108

.i

~

In

Vehicle in snow area that requiree paint or whitewash.

Figure 104.

Aerial view of all white vehicles in snow area.

109

CHAPTER 9
BIVOUACS, COMMAND POSTS, AND FIELD.
SERVICE INSTALLATIONS
72. General
The problems of concealment of bivouacs, command posts, andfield service installations are similar in the various geographic terrain areas. Each is an activity in which personnel and equipment
are closely grouped in a particular area for more than a few hours.
Elements of the unit are concentrated in a smaller area than usual
and, except for security elements, the men are less alert than whenengaged in combat. The breaches in camouflage discipline which
can occur when a unit has occupied an area for some time (fig. 105)
must be avoided. A thorough reconnaissance of the terrain to beoccupied should be accomplished prior to occupation, taking into
consideration the tactical situation and camouflage. This will eliminate confusion in moving into the area, prevent any unnecessary
camouflage construction, and insure an orderly occupation of thearea.

73. Development of the Bivouac
There are four critical stages in the development of a bivouac.
Listed in the order in which they occur, they are planning stage,occupation stage, maintenance stage, and evacuation stage.

74. Planning Stage
a. General. Frequent bivouacs are characteristic of mobile warfare. In such warfare, there is seldom time or facilities to erect
elaborate constructions for concealment. Bivouacs are usually hastily
occupied and quickly evacuated. Camouflage measures are hasty innature, and dependent upon local natural materials. The most important elements in the planning stage of a bivouac are the missionsof the advance party and the quartering party.
b. Advance Party. The advance party should consist of a representative from the headquarters that ordered the move, a representative from each subordinate unit and a camouflage expert. This
party should make a thorough reconnaissance of the area proposed
and then divide the area into subordinate unit areas. The quartering party, from each subordinate, then makes its reconnaissance of110the assigned area, taking into consitleration both the tactical andcamouflage capability.
c. Quartering Party. Before going into the area the quartering
tile
party should become as famili:lar as possible with tile terrain 11andgound pattern, through a careful stiudy of nil)ps a11d aerial phlotographs, anid should be fully acqainited with both the tactical plahnalnd the camlouflage requirements. They should designlate disl)ersal
ploints and concealment areas for the suIxbrdinate mlits, select cuttilngareas for naltural materials, tape motor park and roadways, andl post2
3
4

Uncontrolled tracks_xposed_
Exposed spoil
Tents in open
vehiclesUnconcealed_
Figunrc 105.

5t7

aundry drying in open
litt3r
Smoke
Exposed supplies

Breaches in camouflage discipline.

traffic regulations and guides. The critical elements which the quartering party must keep in mind are(1) M i.on of the ,dit. The tactical plan and its demnands,
which normally inchides the concealment of the bivoliac, mustbe satisfied as completely as possible.
(2) Acces.s roiotexs. Effectiveness of concealment depends greatly
on a well-prepared and well-maintained track plan.
(3) E£ri.sting concealment qualities of the area.
(4) Area in relation to the size of unit. The area should bethrough disatural concealment
large entiough to afford
111persion, taking advantage of terrain features, and the useof natural materials.
(5) Concealment of the all-round defense element of the position.
Even though other elements of a bivouac are well concealed,a conspicuous all-round defense may betray the position.
d. Siting. Proper siting solves to a large degree the concealment
problem. An ideal bivouac area, for example, is a large wooded area
containing many existing routes of approach (fig. 106). However,such an ideal place is seldom found. Military units should be sitedwhere possible to take advantage of terrain features such as shadow,
terrain lines, rocky areas, villages, farms, and defilades. The individual must be ready to fit himself and his equipment inconspicuously
into any type of terrain.

Figure 106.

112

Bivouac area containing existing routes of approach.

75. Occupation Stage
a. General. The occupation stage is limited to the period during
which the unit is moving into the bivouac area. A carefully controlled traffic plan is mandatory during this stage of the bivouac.
This is the most critical stage in the bivouac. Guides posted at routejunctions should be fully informed as to the camouflage plan. Oneof their duties is to enforce camouflage discipline. Vehicle turn-ins
must be wired to prevent widening of corners. Foot troops must follow wired paths through the areas (fig. 107).

Figure 107.

Wired path.

b. Dispersion. Dispersion should be automatic and should provide
for a minimum of 50 square yards per man and no less than 20 yards
between tents (figs. 108 and 109). Vehicles will seldom be less than
50 yards apart in ordinary terrain or less than 100 yards in desert
areas. The kitchen area should be carefully selected to provide forthe various parts of the kitchen. The three main congested areasthat must be dispersed are the food dispensing area, mess kit washingarea, and eating area.
c. Imvmediate Camouflage Measures. Camouflage is not something
applied as an afterthought to other activities. Camouflage measures
must be immediate and continuous. Vehicles and equipment should113

Figure 108.

Dispersal of tents.

be concealed as soon as they are properly sited (fig. 110). Immediate steps should be taken to obliterate vehicle and equipment tracks.
This may be accomplished buy using leaves, brush, or other natural
materials to cover up tracks (fig. 111). In sandy areas a dragor rake
can be used to eliminate tracks.

Ce

sso -ocae

diatestepb

~~

ste

takn sholdrprystd(i.10.Ine

tooblieratevehilead7;' '40

·

114
~~

~

Figure 109.
114

ecuipmnt~

Camouflaged tent.

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tac-

s

2

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i

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.

.

!

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4~~~~~~
Figure 110.

~~~~~~
Vehicles properly
sited and camouflaged.
~~.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~.~

Figure 111.

"~~S

Covering tracks.

115

d. Tracks. When it is impossible to stay on existing routes andpaths, three courses are open to the unit.
(1) Make new paths and tracks along existing lines (fig. 112).
New tracks adjacent to and paralleling such lines are farless conspicuous than fresh tracks breaking a "clean" area.
(2) If a new path in an open area must be made, it must be extended beyond its destination to a natural termination, suchas a junction with a road. This false section must appear aswell traveled as the true section. A new route must enter
concealment some distance from its destination. Turnarounds are to be avoided. Traffic-control plans which include a one-way system of travel must be strictly enforced.

1

Fignre 112.

eTroops moving to bivouac along existing communication lines.

(3) In some cases, tree tops can be pulled and wired together tocover exposed areas. A more elaborate and difficult procedure (possible only in somewhat prolonged bivouacs) isthe construction of overhead screens to conceal small sectionsof newly created paths and roads. This is a time-consuming
operation and should be considered only as a last resort insuch temporary operations as bivouacs.
76. Maintenance Stage
a. General. The maintenance stage of a bivouac commences when
the unit has arrived in the area and terminates when the last element departs. If the occupation stage has been successful from acamouflage standpoint, the maintenance stage is relatively easy. Suc116

cessful maintenance involves frequent ground inspection of thebivouac area, active patrol measures for camouflage discipline, and, if
possible, aerial observation and photography and the correction of
defects.
b. Kitchen Areas. Critical activities of a unit in bivouac are thosewhich call for the congregation of troops; water facilities (fig. 113)

Figure 113.

Camouflage of lister bag.

and messing. Mess facilities must be centrally located in a wellconcealed area. The track plan must be rigidly enforced. Messareas should provide ample space for mess lines, wash lines, andeating. Artificial overhead cover may be necessary to conceal messareas (fig. 114). Garbage disposal pits should be accessible, but not
117too close to the mess area. The spoil from the pits must be carefully
concealed (fig. 115). In the kitchen itself, if cooking stoves otherthan issue gasoline burners are used, the problem of smoke should be
met by constructing a baffle above the stove so that the smoke is welldispersed. The baffle itself should be camouflaged and concealed
from aerial view.
c. Night Discipline. Camouflage discipline at night is just as important as daylight camouflage discipline. The rigid rules for daylight must be observed because the enemy can use infrared surveil-

ZP -Figure 114.

Camouflage over mess wash area.

lance equipment and aerial photography to detect any breach of night
camouflage discipline. Night photographs are surprisingly revealing. Wired and taped paths (fig. 107) must be followed and blackout control must be enforced. No lights or fires are to be permitted
except under adequate concealment such as inside lightproof tents,
dugouts and caves. Material or articles of clothing are concealed atnight to prevent reflection or shine (fig. 116) from the light of aircraft photoflares.

11877. Evacuation Stage
The camouflage of a bivouac is not terminated when the unit moves
out. An evacuated area can be left in such a state of disorder thataerial photographs taken by the enemy will reveal the strength of theunit which occupies it, the kind of equipment carried, and the direction in which it went. It is part of camouflage discipline to leave thearea looking undisturbed because friendly advancing troops may want
to use the same area. Decoy bivouacs may sometimes be used as partof the tactical plan, during occupation or after departure.

Figure 115.

Covered disposal pit.

78. Geographic Areasa. Bivouac in Open Terrain. Concealment in terrain which lacks
natural overhead cover, such as open fields or the outskirts of villages,
depends mainly on careful siting, dispersion and effective camouflage discipline. Shelter tents should be pitched along lines which
are normal in the terrain pattern, such as fence and hedge lines, or
beside folds in the ground or other shadow-casting irregularities in
the ground surface. Disruptive patterns made with charcoal (fig.
117), paint, mud, or stain from vegetation may be applied to tents
to help blend them with their environment. During the daytime,tents should be struck and concealed with natural materials. If time
permits, equipment should be at least partially dug in and spoil
119placed around it in such a manner as to minimize the shadows. Spoillightens in color as it dries out and must be toned down with othernatural materials.
b. Snow-Covered Terrain. Although camouflage in snow-covered
terrain follows exactly the same principles as other camouflage, it
presents several special problems. A blanket of snow often eliminates
much of the ground pattern, making blending difficult. Differencesin texture and color disappear or become less marked. However,

_i

kc:iW

;

i

Ar~l:

Figulre 116.

Covering used ration cans to prevent shine.

snow-covered terrain is rarely completely white, and by taking advantage of dark features in the landscape, a unit on the move or inbivouac may often blend itself successfully into the terrain (fig. 118).
(1) Good route selection is usually more important than any
other camouflage measures because exposed tracks are difficult to conceal. If, in selecting a route, advantage is takenof the dark features of the landscape, tracks will blend invery well (fig. 112). However, this does not mean that120

exposed tracks in open terrain of this nature cannot be concealed or toned down. Tracks may be concealed by using a
drag to smooth out the snow or to slope the tracks obliquely
at the sides in order to minimize their shadows. When
moving into a bivouac area, extreme care must be exercised
to avoid leaving exposed tracks pointing toward the site tobe occupied. One method of eliminating this is to continue
tracks past the entrance to the bivouac area to a predetermined destination. Skis and snow shoes should not be usednear the bivouac since their mark (tracks) are more sharply

Figure117.

Charcoal UIsed for pattern painting of tents.

defined and more easily seen than foot tracks. To help avoid
detection, personnel, vehicles, and materials should be restricted from open areas.
(2) Vehicles may be pattern painted or painted a solid white,depending on the terrain. This applies to tentage and otherfacilities as well as vehicles (fig. 119). Bivouacs whichhave been well concealed in snow terrain for some length oftime can be identified easily when the snow melts, unlessprecautions are taken. This is because the compacted snow
on much-used paths melts much more slowly than virgin
121

snow, leaving clearly visible white lines on a dark background. When this occurs, the compacted snow must be
broken up and spread out to hasten melting.
(3) The arctic 5- or 10-man tent should be dug into the snow andthe entire tent camouflaged by placing the white inner lining
over the outside. Tools, rations, and other items may be concealed under the white canvas cover of the 200-pound sled.
(4) In wooded areas, the following measures can be used. The
arctic 5- or 10-man tent is dug into the snow close to bushy-<V

Figure 118.

Bivouac in snou; terrain.

trees whenever possible (fig. 119). The outline of the tent
is broken by placing white camouflage parkas on the tent
or by pattern painting. Sometimes, in forest areas, a bough
platform supported by the nearest trees can be built above
the tent. This diverts the smoke coming from the stove
pipe; otherwise the smoke can be easily seen from long distances, especially on extremely cold mornings. Snow shoeand ski racks should be located under bushy trees.
122

c. Bivouac in Desert or Barren Areas. Experience in the desert
has taught much about concealment in areas where large, convenient
trees are seldom found. Such areas, comparable to the desert as far
as camouflage is concerned, are unplowed fields, rocky areas, grasslands, and other sparsely vegetated areas. Certain kinds of predominately flat terrain have shadows which are made by folds inthe ground and which are deep enough to allow some concealment
by siting (fig. 120). Proper use of drape nets will accomplish muchin rendering objects inconspicuous in areas where very little or nonatural materials are available. Figure 121 is a ground view of atent situated in desert terrain. Because it is bare, except for shortgrass, this terrain offers few advantages for successful siting. However, in desert terrain the identity of objects is hidden by keeping
each installation as low to the ground as possible, by draping so as

Figure 119.

Pattern painted tent in wooded area.

to break up characteristic form, and by giving them gently sloping
sides. Even in essentially barren terrain (fig. 122) excellent concealment is possible when the configuration of the ground is irregularenough to produce a strong shadow pattern. Bivouacs should be
dispersed in the shadows of underbrush and among natural terrain
features such as gullies and rocks. Tents are to be painted withcanvas preservative to match the terrain color.
79. Camouflage of Command Posts
a. General. Command posts have functional requirements which
result in the creation of characteristic signs by which they can bereadily identified. Some of the signs which indicate to the enemy
observer the possible presence of a command post are123

(1) Converging communication lines-wire and road.
(2) Concentration of vehicles.
(3) Heavy traffic, which causes widened turn-ins.
(4) New access routes.
(5) Protective wire and other barriers surrounding
installation.

I:

~o

,A

Figure 120.

--

the

:

_

Aerial view of desert terrain;folds in the ground are used in siting
tents and vehicles.

(6) Defense weapons and emplacements around the installation.
A good example of common breaches of camouflage discipline of a CP in a rural area is shown in figure 123.
b. General Consideration. The requirements of a large command
post or a company size CP (fig. 124) are essentially the same as fora bivouac: Preliminary reconnaissance and layout by quartering
parties, rapid concealment of elements, and camouflage discipline,
to include a well-policed track plan. One additional consideration124

is that a large headquarters is likely to remain in an area for agreater length of time than a bivouacked unit. The site must be
capable of being continuously occupied while offering a minimum
chance of being disclosed through changes in the surroundings. It
is unwise to locate a headquarters in the only large building within
an extensive area of military operations. If the CP is located in abuilding, there should be sufficient other buildings in the neighborhood to prevent pin-pointing the target.
c. Site Layout and Canoouflage Discipline. Once the command
post site has been selected, the proper organization of the position
will considerably simplify the maintenance of camouflage and camou-

area several
yards
hudredfrom the CP will reduce the traffic, noises,

Fiqure 121.

Tenttr int dc

t terrain.

dust, and track problems at the CP itself (fig. 125). Security wVeapons should be positioned to make maximum use of natural concealmenlt; they should be located so that tracks to the positions will remain inconspicuous and all spoil may be easily concealed. Protective
wire (barbed wire) must follow natural terrain lines and be as wellconcealed as possible. Night blackout discipline must be rigidly enforced in and around the CP area.
d. ('ominnunications. Command posts that are located to take advantage of existing roads and wire lines are more easily concealed.
The terrain remains undisturbed whell new routes are not required.
125

.

1

Truck

Exposed communication lines
Exposed vehicles
New tracks

Figure 123.

126

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,'·.'

1
2
3

.-',.

2

Supplies

4
5
6

3

Tents

Park vehicles in shadows
Use existing road
Communication lines strung in trees.

Rural CP showing breaches in camouflage and correct procedure
to be used.

Figure 124.

Company VP erected with minimum changes inurrounding area.

I

7

.

Figure125. Pos8ible solution for vehicle parking at CP.
127

.

ROAD
BLOCK

~'--.......
PROTECTIVE WIRE\FOXHOLE.

N

Zi AAA\FOXHOLEA

TRACKS.

BURIED CABLE
FOXHO LESVEHICLES
~

-

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TRACKSFOXHOLE
AAA(A''

WRONG"FOXHOLE1

Command post improperly organized

Figure126. Organizationof command post.

128'

PROTECTIVE

.

WIRE

VEHICLE PARKFOXHOLEilB
FOXHOLE... e
".,
:'
AAA 2

^
^
.

CABLE BURIED
ALONG ROAD'S EDGEFOXHOLES'FOXHOLES. CORNERWIRED IN

A

A

RIGHT
FOXHOLES
X
2

Properly organized command post site

Figuire 126-Continvued.

129

As with other type installations, new communication lines are to follow
existing terrain lines to the maximum possible extent (fig. 126).
e. The Command Post in Open Terrain. In open terrain where
natural concealment is afforded only by small scrub growth and rocks,
protection from overhead observation can be obtained by the use ofdrapes and flattops. The site for the command post must be chosen
so that the installation may be tied into terrain features. Even in thedesert, broken ground and scrub vegetation form irregular patterns
with which artificial materials may be blended (fig. 127). In open
terrain particularly, wide dispersion is a. necessity. Routes between
units must be either concealed or made by indirect courses-not bystraight lines.

Figure127.

Comnandc post in desert.

f. The Command Post in Urban Areas. The location of a headquarters in existing civilian structures presents the problems of hiding
movement by day and of concealing the evidence of activity at night,
when blackout conditions usually prevail. Military movement in avillage or group of farm buildings is not easily discovered if kept toa minimum. Attempts to alter the appearance of buildings by disruptive painting is evidence of occupation and simply reveals a military installation. Erection of a small structure simulating a new
garage or other auxiliary civilian building is unlikely to arouse
130suspicion, but major changes will be closely scanned by enemy air
observers. When buildings are partially destroyed and debrislittered, installations may be camouflaged with debris to blend withthe rough and jagged lines of their surroundings. A few broken
timbers, pieces of lath, plaster, and scattered rags will accomplish
quick and effective concealment. Other debris usually available ascamouflage material includes rubble, scrap metal, and wreckedvehicles.
80. Camouflage of Maintenance and Supply Points
a. General. The problem of camouflaging supply points includes
all the difficulties of both bivouac and command post concealment,
plus a number of particularly troublesome factors. Supply points
vary in size from large concentrations of material in rear areas tosmall piles of supplies behind the 'battlelines. From a camouflage
standpoint, the large area occupied by a supply point is the primary
problem. Supplies of equipment of all kinds hauled to forward areas
must be unloaded quickly to release the carriers for return, must beconcealed quickly, and yet must be accessible for redistribution and
SUPPLY-EXISTINGSTORAGE
SHEDS
DECOYSHEDSDECOYFIRESof*OPERATIONS
WGOUT

/i

:

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_DECOYROAD

Figure 128.

/

POINT

AS WELL CAMOUFLAGED
AS POSSIBLE
ACTIVITY KEPT 1TOMINIMUM

i,//DECOY

SUPPLY POINT

Drawing showing supply point and decoy/ supply point layout.

reloading on other carriers. Concealment must be obtained throughproper siting and by use of natural materials supplemented by artificial material if necessary. For supply points which cannot be concealed, decoy supply points will often divert the enemy observer(fig. 128).
b. Planning of Su&pply Points. Supply points are planned to obtain dispersion and to take maximum advantage of natural concealment (fig. 129). Access roads and paths are planned to use existing
overhead concealment. In some semipermanent field installations,
tracks running through short open areas can be concealed by overhead nets hung between trees. Strict traffic control, including traffic
guides and wired-in roads, must be used to conceal activity andmovement at, to, and from the installation. Even when natural concealment is scarce, terrain features are used to utmost advantage.
Terrain features are used by stockpiling supplies in the shadows or
dark areas created by these features or by stockpiling supplies so that
131

i

P!4

Figure129.

Z7

at;

?=

l-

E

.

.

Supplies under naturalconcealment.

the supplies resemble the terrain features (fig. 130). Camouflage
discipline at supply points includes track plans that result in a minimum of changes in the appearance of the terrain, control of debris
so that it does not accumulate and attract the enemy's attention, concealment and control of trucks waiting to draw supplies, and maintenance of camouflage measures. When supplies are stacked in arectangular shape, they are made to blend with the color and texturesof the backgroundeitherby distributing natural materials overthe ., -.
Aim
P$,i~~~~~~~~~~~~~a#C,
me l·c,,;W-w·^_'}s;tarpaulin covering the supplies or by draping supplies with garnished

132upisrsebetetran

etrs(ir

Figure130

Supplies stacked to resemble terrain
field.
eatures of plowed

132

10.Cmulg

camouflage nets (fig. 131). Nets are propped above the supplies so
the shape of the supplies is irregular. Supplies stacked in a pyramidal shape can be made to resemble bushes and small trees by placing natural materials on the pyramid or by draping with a garnishednet. Another advantage of a pyramidal stack is that it makes asmaller shadow than other shapes. Supplies can be stacked in the
shadows besides walls or stone fences, in or along ditches, trenches(fig. 132), folds in the ground; or among rock outcrops. Supplies
resembling real stones in stone walls preserve an innocent appearanceA;.

I

Figure 131

Supplies concealed wvith aidl of garnished net.

(fig. 133). Supplies can be stacked to simulate many other terrain
features, such as native structures, haystacks, rubbish dumps, croprows, and so on.
81. Camouflage of Water Points
a. General. There are two characteristics peculiar to water supply
points which must be concealed if the position is not to be disclosed.
The first of these is the one-way traffic loop which leads from themain road to the water point and back to the main road. The
second is the shape of the water tanks and associated equipment.
133

b. Camnouflage of Water Point Area. The one-way traffic loop
characteristic of many water points is easily identified from the air
unless proper concealment measures are taken. Selection of a position
offering the best possible overhead concealment is required. Foliage
too thin for perfect concealment may be supplemented by other natural materials or by artificial materials such as drapes, hammocks, andflattops. The traffic loop can be eliminated when two parallel allweather roads flank the water point. Where possible, use should bemade of all-weather roads. Gravel and dirt roads tend to become
muddy and disintegrate unless the area has an excellent drainage

A

-A

.
, _ _,

Figure 132.

,t+

Using abandoned trenches and emplacement for supplies.

system. Inadequate drainage also causes the formation of pools of
stagnant water resulting from spillage. These pools must be eliminated or covered with tarps or foliage, or the resulting reflections will
disclose the position to an enemy aerial observer.
c. Camnouflage of Water Tanks. In the camouflage of water tanks,
the first consideration is the reflection of the water, which must beconcealed, preferably with canvas cover or other solid woven substitutes. The characteristic shape of the tanks should also be concealed or broken up, either by foliage or artificial camouflage materials (fig. 134). Associated equipment may be covered with drape
nets or hammocks, and drainage ditches or pipes should be concealedwith natural materials.
134

o.~

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_i

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133.

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Figure 134.

Camoultaged tanks at water point.

d. Camouflage Discipline at Water Points. Camouflage discipline
at a water point includes all the usual precautions, plus a, water supply schedule for using units. Lack of a schedule, or violation of theschedule usually produces a concentration of vehicles which cannot
be concealed. In some instances congestion may be avoided by theprovision of a concealed auxiliary parking area. Where several small
water points are available, it is preferable to use them rather thana single large one, for both ease of concealment and convenience ofusing units. The above principles are equally applicable to water
distributing points served by tank trucks.

136

CHAPTER 10
ANTIAIRCRAFT ARTILLERY, FIELD ARTILLERY, AND
GUIDED MISSILE INSTALLATIONS
Section I. ANTIAIRCRAFT ARTILLERY AND FIELD ARTILLERY
82. General
The importance of camouflage to antiaircraft and field artillery
operations cannot be overstressed. Camouflage will vary with themission of the unit. When skillfully used in defensive or attack
positions, camouflage of antiaircraft and field artillery can be aneffective weapon of surprise. Concealment is greatly aided by propersite selection.

83. Site Selection
a. Information which will be of great value in the selection ofbattery positions can be obtained initially by studying aerial photographs of an area prior to occupation. Extensive reconnaissancemay be necessary to find a position which will satisfy the need forgood concealment and other requirements for successful completionof the assigned mission. The siting of the elements of a battery
within the area assigned is governed by the following factors:(1) Need for clear field of fire. Antiaircraft artillery musthave a 360° field of fire; normally field artillery requires a
60 ° to 650 field of fire.
(2) Room for dispersion of guns, vehicles, and other equipment
organic to the battery.
(3) Necessity for access and supply routes.
(4) Opportunity for the establishment of communications.
(5) Possibilities for concealment from hostile observation.
b. Although sited for concealment and properly camouflaged thegun positions may be still obvious to the enemy observer. Wheel
tracks made when siting guns, blast marks, paths made in bringing
up ammunition, and carelessly strewn ammunition cases are indications of the presence of artillery (fig. 135). However, signs causedby activity around the battery position or the truck parks may notindicate the nature of the position, but they do attract closer enemy
observation. To obtain a well-concealed battery of artillery, the137necessity for concealing all elements of the position is considered in
the camouflage plan.
c. Every man in the unit should be taught what terrain and artillery installations look like from the air and what signs the enemy
looks for (fig. 135). Units should also be trained in movement into
position after dark and complete camouflage during the night. An
area newly occupied by artillery at night must appear unchangedby the next morning.

Figure 135.

Indicatior of artillery.

d. An inspection is made, including aerial observation and photocamouflage requirements.

84. Reconnaissance
During reconnaissance ofthe

cases intoarea before a battery movunition

position, careful consideration is given to concealment of the various
elements.

If practical, a location is chosen for each gun which will

enablethe gun to be made to seem a part of an existing clump of
a gr
p,
oup
smallof buildings, or an irregularbushes, a scrap hea
formation in the terrain. Fire-control instruments are emplaced topractithetake the utmost advantage of the terrain pattern withinparallaxof corrections and cable lengths. Headquarters
cable limits138

and headquarters units in the vicinity of firing units should be located in concealed and dispersed positions. When practicable, headquarters and headquarters units, supply points, bivouacs, vehicle
parks, and similar installations are located far enough from firing
units so that discovery of one segment of the battery will not reveal
the other components.
85. Access Routes
It is highly desirable that a battery be located in the vicinity ofgood roads, with routes available to the front, flanks, and rear. Thisis especially important in situations where it may be necessary to
make a sudden change of position. When personnel, ammunition,equipment, and other supplies are moved into a position, they must
follow a prepared traffic-circulation plan. Traffic signs and guides
are to be posted, and routes within the position are to be wired or
NEW _ ACSS

!i_

I

v$fE.

L -:U

MACHIN

1
2

Aerial view before occupation by a 40-mm gun
Occupation plan showing access routes

Figure136.

Typical layout of a 40-mm gun position.

taped. Traffic loops are established before the position is assigned.
Where access routes do not exist, the number
notof new access and interior routes is kept to a minimum, and they are planned to carefully
conform to the surrounding terrain pattern. New tracks made will
be seen from the air and will point like arrows to the position. 1,
figure 136, is a view of an area before occupation by a 40-mm AA
gun. 2, figure 136, is an occupation plan of the same area, showing
access routes. The gun is sited at a point of dark ground coveradjacent to a furrowed field, taking advantage of the low brush which
absorbs the dark shadows of the position. A new access route leaves
an existing road and follows the edge of the field, where it is un139

noticed. The machinegun position is sited on one side of the field,
and its access path follows the field boundary to the access route forthe 40-mm emplacement.

86. Blending With the Terrain
Every type of terrain and every area within it has an individual
or distinctive pattern when seen from the air. These individual
patterns are the product of variations in color, surface texture,shadows, and ground formations. The aim of blending is to fit
the position into an area with the least possible change in the normal
appearance of the area. The first step in blending an installation
with the terrain is to study the features of the pattern and to decide
which can aid and which will hinder concealment. Camouflage
methods used to blend the shape, shadow, and texture of an object
with its surroundings vary in different types of terrain.

87. Blending Antiaircraft Artillery With the Terrain
a. Open Terrain. From the air, barren terrain has a mottled pattern, the product of scattered scrub growth, rock outcrops, andirregular ground formations. This mottled pattern is able to absorb
the pattern of guns and auxiliary units of a battery. Choosing agood position in this kind of terrain is largely a matter of choosing
access routes which blend with the terrain pattern. In 1, figure 137,
the tracks running from the hi'ghway to the upper left are incorrectly
blended with the terrain pattern and are easy to see from the air,cutting across the lines of numerous small drainage channels. In thesame photograph, the tracks indicated by an arrow follow the ridge
above the.highway and fade almost completely into the terrain pattern. 2, figure 137, suggests a plan for an AAA position. All elements are located so that they could be connected by a single line of
new tracks following the natural lines or breaks in terrain texture.
Against this mottled pattern, both battery and tracks would be hard
to see. To accomplish their mlissions, most elements of a battery musthave an uninterrupted field of view, and for this reason open terrain
has many advantages. However, since the concealment in open
terrain is hard to achieve from the ground, extra care must be taken
to locate even the smallest changes in ground texture and then havethe guns and equipment placed on a boundary line between thesechanges (fig. 138).
b. AgriculturalTerrain. Agricultural terrain usually offers excellent opportunities for concealment of new tracks and paths. Such
terrain almost always possesses a closely knit system of roads, which
provide good access. Figure 139 shows a farm area with a layoutof a 90-mm AA battery. Full advantage is to be taken of naturallines and breaks in texture in the terrain pattern for gun positions,140

1

Tracks correctly a nd

FgJrc157.

incorrectly blended with terrain features

AAA ibatteryz

n open terrain.

. r:1411

layoutcks
alternate
can be arrectly
anged incorrectly blended with equal

2

Suggestedlayoutof AAA Battery

effectivenuress.

1
2

An SCR 268 tracks point to position
Unit is less conspicuous

Figure138.

12

An SCR 268 in open terrain.

Incorrectly laid cable line
Cables laid correctly following natural terrain lines
Figure 139.

Battery layout.

142

Figure 140. Conspicuous battery layout.
142

seen by a plane approaching at a low altitude from the left of theview in 1, figure 141.
c. Urban Areas. AAA positions in urban areas must be madeinconspicuous. The pattern areas are usually so full of variety thatlittle difficulty is experienced in blending battery layouts into them1

High altitude view

2

Figure141.

Low altitude view

Battery partiallyconcealed along natural terrainlines.

(2, fig. 142). However, extensive reconnaissance is sometimes required to find sites that provide suitable fields of fire as well as adequate concealment.
d. Industrial Areas. Key industrial areas, harbor and dock facilities, and railroad centers are usually protected by AAA batteries.
143

_ I-

.S

________:ili

1 Conspicuous circular 90-mm gun emplacements
2

Figure 142.

Inconspicuous rectangular 90-mm gun emplacements

Typical layout of 90-mm gun emplacement in an urban area.

Often important industrial objectives are well camouflaged and precautions must be taken to prevent an AAA installation from betraying the area it protects. In situations of this kind, the pattern ofmassed buildings of various sizes and the network of communicationlines offer a confusion of geometric shapes into which the elementsof a~n AAA installation are usually easily blended (fig. 143).
e. Ruins. AAA elements laid out among ruins and debris must
blend with a cluttered background (fig. 144). The lines of a wrecked
144
144

building are rough and jagged. To create an irregular outline whichmatches them, sandbags are distributed haphazardly on and aroundrevetments. Scraps of timber, metal, and other debris are scatteredirregularly to break up the straight lines of guns, auxiliary equipment, and their shadows when seen from the air.
f. Snow Terrain. From a concealment point of view, snow usually
obliterates many of the most useful features of the terrain pattern.
It is important, therefore, to use those features which remain, suchas brush, clumps of trees, streams, roads, irregular ground formations, and the edges of snowdrifts, especially where the latter caststrong shadows (fig. 145). Fence lines and other normal terrain lines

ACCESSORY

1
2
Figure 143.

EQUIP.

Aerial view of industrial area
Suggested layout of 90-mm battery
Layout of battery in an industrial area.

145

i

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:

2

b~~~

view of snow teri
Suggested layout of battery~Fgre15 Lyu
146~~~~~~~~~~~~·i:~·a 'iu
snwara.145--0C

are tollowect tor access routes. W heel tracks are to De levelea out
to reduce shadows within them. Snow can be shoveled over blast
marks resulting from ground fire.

88. Blending Field Artillery With the Terrain
a. Wooded Areas. Good concealment can usually be found amonglarge trees. However, batteries must be located so that the need forslashings to obtain field of fire is avoided (fig. 146). If it becomes
necessary to cut down trees to prepare a position, small standing
trees can be bent and wired together to mask the exposed area (fig.

k it
A~~~~~i,,u-~~~~~T&A~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~:1~;0
Azz~~~
Fiue16.Gnpstini
147)

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ecase f btte
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fig. 148).~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ib.ArcltrlAea.I
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146.
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49, howsthe
eplacmentwith
et cosedafte com147). Terrain with scattered trees and bushes is often more desirt" fig.
~~~~~~~~~~~~4148). A(1,
able than thick bwoods, because of better field of fire *.
dispersed battery can be concealed in this type of terrain by using
camouflage net sets to supplement existing natural concealment (2,fig. 148).
b. Agricultural Areas. It is difficult to conceal battery installations completely from aerial observation in open country, without theuse of artificial materials. 1, figure 149, illustrates dug-in artillery
emplacement in open terrain with net set opened to permit firing.
2, figure 149, shows the same emplacement with net closed after com147

pletion of firing mission. Partial concealment may be obtained along
hedge lines and brush patches and in overgrown gullies and folds inthe ground. Figure 150 is an aerial photo of an artillery battery
preparing positions in a clearing. Four pits have been dug and nets
will be used to supplement natural materials to complete the camouflage. Existing roads give quick access to all elements of the battery.
c. Urban Areas. Positions in towns or near groups of farm buildings offer good possibilities for concealment. Existing roads orstreets conceal tracks and debris and ruins furnish camouflage materials (fig. 151).
d. Desert and Snow Areas. Terrain features, such as cliffs, winderoded gullies, and mottled areas of sparse vegetation or rocks, are'.

>'0,,,,.

-C

Figure 147.

-

Small trees bent to conceal exposed area.

used for partial concealment. Nets with artificial garnishing aid incompleting camouflage (figs. 152 and 153).

89. Use of Natural Materials
For information on natural materials, see paragraphs 24 and 25.

90. Use of Artificial Materials
Artificial camouflage materials most useful to AAA and artillery
units are twine nets and wire netting. Wire netting, althoughheavier and bulkier, holds its form better, is more durable, and isinvaluable in concealing positions of a permanent nature. A clear
field of fire for guns requires camouflage nets which can be opened
or removed instantly. Both twine nets and wire netting can be gar148

IA

1

2

105-mm battery (weapons should be dispersed)

280-mn gun position, with net being partially opened for firing

Figure 148.

Gun positions in area fwith scattered vegetation.

149

1

2

Net closed after completion of firing mission

Figure 149.

150

Net open for firingDug-in artillery in open terrain.

nished with either cloth strips or natural materials or with a combination of both.
91. Observation and Command Posts
Observation posts should not be placed in the most salient positions
because the enemy will examine these areas minutely. The camouflage problem of observers is similar to that of frontline infantry,
and all personal concealment measures should be taken. Command
posts and fire-direction centers require special care in concealment
and in camouflage discipline because of their importance to operations
and the large amount of traffic to them. Drape and flattop nets may

Figure 150.

Aerial photo of battery preparing position in a clearing.

be used to cover fire-direction crews and equipment. Radio vehicles
should be dispersed and concealed. In some places they may be dugin and covered with nets. In certain situations the only solution
may be to disguise the radio vehicles to resemble general purpose
vehicles by adding bows, tops, and false hoods. Where new tracks
must be made to reach the command post the tracks are carried past
the command post to a logical termination.
92. Pattern Painting of Field Artillerya. Field artillery pieces to which painted camouflage patterns havebeen applied are difficult for the enemy to distinguish. Figure 154
151

shows a pattern painted artillery piece. However, the paint does notgive complete concealment to the piece or its emplacement. Patternpainting is only an aid to concealment.
b. Patterns are designed for use in different types of terrain.
Colors in each pattern should be chosen to match the dominant colorsof the particular terrain in which the piece will operate.
(1) The three-color pattern used for temperate and jungle terrain is shown in figure 155. The three colors are olive drab,
field drab, and black.

7-~j1:;'- '-1

Debris used for camouflage

2

Gun positioned in ruin

Figure 151.

Artillery in urban area.

(2) Figure 156 shows a 155-mm gun painted with earth yellow
and olive drab. This pattern is suitable for light desert
backgrounds. In reddish desert backgrounds, the earth yellow should be changed to earth red.
(3) The howitzer in figure 157 is painted white for snow terrain
with wooded areas, with about 15 percent of the piece leftolive drab. In predominant snow areas, where there are no
woods to break up the snow, the piece should be painted solid
white.
152

IJl g 1.Sy
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3 Gun camuflaged
wth rubbl

FiyQ~rem

Sol-Continued.

Gun camouflaged with rubble
Figurel

S.Continued.

153

153

1

2

120-mm gun sited in desert area

105-mam gun sited in ruins in barren area

Figure 152.

154

Artillery in desert area.

«K

4

1

Camouflage aided by recent snow

2

Incorrect camouflage in snow area

Figure 153.

Artillery in snowi areas.

155

Figure 154.

] _Pattern painted artillery.

3

>

OLIVE

Figure 156.

156

W

H~~~~~~~~WITE COUNTER

DRAB

Pattern for light desert terrain.

Figure 157.

Pattern for mottled snow area.

Section II. GUIDED MISSILE
93. GeneralIn planning the camouflage requirements for concealing a typicalguided missile firing battery, consideration must be given not only
to the missile itself but also to support areas and support and organic
equipment that is in the general area of the firing position. This
includes the missile fueling area (when applicable), storage dumps,
ground guidance equipment, and missile erectors and other special
equipment (when applicable). If observed, these areas, equipment,
and installations will indicate to the enemy observer that there is
missile activity in the area (1, 2, and 3, fig. 158). In siting the firing
position, several prerequisites should be taken into consideration:
the area should be large enough to permit dispersion of the firing
position; in most instances the firing pad must be level; and the needfor entrances and exits for fueling when fueling is accomplished withthe missile in the erect position. This will require considerable earth
work, resulting in scarring the area. One method of concealing thescarred area is to confine it and remove the sod. The sod is replaced
over the scarred area as soon as construction is completed. In constructing the emplacement consideration should be given to the shapeof the emplacement. For example, circular shaped positions in terrain where the pattern is predominately rectangular will be eyecatching to the enemy observer. The shape of the firing position
should be modified to resemble the most common ground pattern in
the immediate terrain.
94. Concealment During Movement
a. Day. The problem of concealment in movement is quite complex since a missile battery on the march is vulnerable to hostile
enemy observation, especially during daylight hours. To the enemy
157

observer, the characteristically shaped special equipment is a definite
giveaway of the type of missile organization on the move. The identity of one special piece of missile equipment (1 and 2, fig. 159) isindication that a Corporal guided missile unit is on the move.
b. Night. One method of movement of a guided missile organization to insure maximum concealment is to move at night under blackout conditions. The organization should arrive at the predesignateddestination in ample time to conceal the firing position and all equipment during the hours of darkness.

Rib

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4,,

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tg o

1

MissileFigure158.

2

Tracks3

Organic equipment

Uncamouflaged missile positions.

95. Sitinga. General. Prior to occupation of a firing position a thoroughreconnaissance of the area to be occupied should be accomplished,taking into consideration the tactical situation, the possibilities of bothconcealing and dispersing the firing position, and the availability ofaccess and supply routes. These same requirements should be considered when selecting alternate positions. During the occupation of
the site and the moving in of personnel, equipment, ammunition, andother supplies a traffic circulatory plan should be in effect which issimilar to the traffic plans for vehicles, artillery, and bivouacs. These
traffic loops should be concealed and other roads and paths within
the firing position should either be wired or taped in to insure their158

1

Oblique view

2

Figure159.

Closeup

Aerial photo of a missile unit in movement.

159

use (fig. 107). When access routes do not exist, the number of newaccess routes should be kept to a minimum and planned to conformto the surrounding terrain pattern. Routes of approach should passnear the firing position and accessory locations and go beyond thefiring position to a predetermined logical destination (fig. 89).
b. Siting in Open Terrain. In siting a firing position in barren
terrain it must be remembered that from the air the terrain pattern
appears to be mottled due to scattered scrub growth, rock outcrops,
and irregular ground formations (fig. 160). In siting the firing
positions, if advantage is taken of the dark shadows cast by the outcropof rocks, irregularities in the terrain, and scrub growth, both the firing position and equipment organic to the firing battery usually may

Figure 160.

Net used to conceal missile in the desert.

be blended into the terrain and be inconspicuous. If the terrain isof such a nature that adequate concealment cannot be obtained bytaking advantage of the terrain features, then proper siting should
be supplemented by the use of camouflage drape nets and drape net
sets (fig. 161).
c. Wooded Areas. In siting a guided missile firing battery in awooded area, a thorough reconnaissance of the area should be accomplished prior to occupancy. This eliminates confusion in moving
into the area and results in maximum advantage being taken of
natural concealment. For example, if a missile firing battery issited in a wooded area adjacent to the bend in a river or turn in a road(fig. 162) it may be concealed in most instances with a minimum
amount of construction effort. The clearing afforded by the roadway
160

Figure 161.

Drape net set in barren terrainsite.

Figure 162.

Aerial %viewof site formissile.

161

or river serves as an excellent field of fire for a horizontal launch.
On the other hand, a vertical launch missile can be sited in the immediate vicinity of a group of large trees which will virtually absorb
the shape and shadow of the missile in the erect position. In areas ofsparsely wooded terrain, concealment of the missile and organic
equipment is aided by the use of nets (fig. 163).
d. Towns and IndustrialAreas. An ideal place for siting guided
missile firing positions is in towns and industrial areas where buildings are massed and of various sizes (fig. 164). The equipment organic to the firing battery may 'be concealed inside the buildings or in

Figure 163. Concealment of missile aided by use of net.

the shadows. The missiles themselves may be placed alongside thespire of a church or the smokestack of a factory and remain inconspicuous.
96. Concealment of Blast Areaa. The blast area created by the heat and velocity of pressure in
firing the missile leaves a burned or scarred area that should beconcealed immediately after firing, because it is a definite sign ofmissile activity and one of the first clues for the enemy observer.
b. One aid in concealing the blast or burned area is to confine it asmuch as possible. This may be accomplished by watering down thearea in the immediate vicinity of the launcher or by placing a fire162

proof pad under the launcher. In the event none of the above solutions are feasible, the missile may be sited under trees or other typesof natural concealment and moved out into the open to fire and after
completion of the firing mission the launcher may be sited in its
original location. This will eliminate the scorching of natural concealment (vegetation, and so on). However, the blast area still
exists. This may be concealed by covering the scarred or burnt areawith brush, sod, or other vegetation. If drape nets are available,
they may be used to conceal the blast area by spreading them over the
blast or burnt area in an irregular pattern; or if a drape net set isused to initially conceal the firing position, the re-erection of the4, K-Eigure164.

IDEAL

M ISSILE

SITE

Aerial view of toiwn and industry.

drape net set may conceal the blast area, depending on how large anarea is scarred.
c. If none of these solutions are feasible, the scarred area can be
toned down by painting the area with a lusterless paint. The color
used must blend with the immediate surroundings of the firing
position.

97. Painting of Missiles
The missile may be painted a disruptive pattern to blend with thesurrounding terrain, provided the paint used does not affect thetemperature requirements of the missile. Missiles painted withhighly reflective paints, to reflect solar heat, should be covered witha cloth or canvas cover dyed to match the predominant terrain color.
The cover will provide camouflage for the missile until positioned forfiring.
163

CHAPTER 11
AIRFIELDS, LANDING SITES, AND AIRCRAFT
Section 1. AIRFIELDS AND LANDING SITES
98. Generala. Camouflage is one of the first considerations during the location,
design, construction, and operation of an airfield or landing site, regardless of whether the construction classification of the installationis pioneer (fig. 165), hasty (fig. 166), or deliberate (fig. 167). Detailed information on airfields and landing site selection and construction is found in TM 5-250 and TM 5-251.
b. The tactical situation and the personnel, materials, and time
available determine the amount of effort to be expended on camouflage.
Friendly aircraft, under certain conditions, can provide cover against
enemy aerial observation and attack. With air superiority, camouflage may become a secondary consideration. However, with a temporary loss of air supremacy, camouflage becomes of immediate
importance.
c. Landing sites and airfields are easily identified from the air because of their size and characteristic features (fig. 167). The mostnoticeable features of airfields or landing sites are the straight, smoothrunways. This creates a pattern unlike that made by any existing
civilian road system. The second conspicuous set of patterns is composed of the troop housing areas, operational structures, and circulatory road net inclosing the entire installation.
d. Uncamouflaged, an airfield or landing site presents a clear target
to attacking aircraft (fig. 168). The vital points for attack, structures, dispersal areas, runways, and troop housing areas, are easily
pinpointed. Much can be done, however, to render an installationa difficult target. When terrain and time are favorable, an airfield
can be completely concealed. This can be done only by the careful
preparation, execution, and maintenance of a camouflage plan.

164

-

1

2

Pioneer heliport

Pioneer airfield in use during Korean conflict

Figure165.

Pioneer aircraft installations.

165
165

S.

i:

Figure166.

Hasty airfield built during World War II.

1

Figure167.

166

Deliberate heliport

Deliberateaircraftinstallations.

2

Deliberate airfield

Figure 167-Continued.

167

Figure 168.

Uncamouflaged airfield.

99. Camouflage Plan
a. The first step in the camouflage plan of airfields and landing sites,
as in all camouflage operations, is the study of the terrain. The study
should include capabilities of terrain features and natural vegetationin aiding concealment. Air observation and aerial photographs are
made in order to study more closely the terrain color and distinctive
pattern (fig. 169). After the ground formation, predominant colors,
and pattern of the area are analyzed, the camouflage shape, color, andpatterns can be planned.
(1) Dispersed parking sites (fig. 170) should be located withindark and heavily textured parts of the area (fig. 171), avoiding sites where aircraft would be in sharp contrast to theirsurroundings or close to an unusual or isolated terrain
feature. Use should be made of overhead concealment,
clumps of bushes, scrub growth, folds in the ground, andother shad4w-casting irregularities.
(2) Circulating traffic should be confined if possible to existingroads and paths for movement within the area and for access to security outposts (1, fig. 172). New routes should
be kept to a minimum. Advantage should be taken of overhead concealment (2, fig. 172) and vehicles should be sited
close to and along natural terrain lines (3, fig. 172).
168

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4

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2

Figure169.

Wooded terrain
Desert terrain

Aerial ph otos of types of terrain.

169

3

Agricultural terrain

4Jungle terrain

Figure 169-Continued.

170

5

Urban terrain

Figure169-Continued.

(3) Pioneer Army airfields and landing sites should be locatedin the least obvious areas that are available. All terrain
features must be utilized to the fullest extent for good concealment.
b. Runways. Familiar ground patterns of farming areas which
may be created on an all-turf airfield situated in agricultural terrain
are illustrated in the aerial view below. Here the runways are madeto appear as orchards (1, fig. 173) and cultivated fields (2, fig. 173),
normal in size, separated by hedges (3, fig. 173) and narrow country
lanes. The principal methods of simulating these terrain patterns
are burning (1, fig. 174), distributing material, such as used crankcase oil (2, fig. 174), and controlled fertilizing and mowing (3, fig.
174).
(1) The greater the traffic at an airfield, the more difficult it
becomes to camouflage runways and taxiways. Sod airfields
do not ordinarily present too great a problem unless paths
have been worn through heavy and continued use. In sucha case it may be possible to conceal the true purpose of the
strip from air observation by extending the strip outline
into a road or group of trees, thus making it appear to be aroad or trail. Pilots must cooperate by restricting theirlandings, takeoffs, and turnarounds to designated areas andrefrain from making new tracks that may be observed fromthe air. Portable landing mats and prefabricated metal
panels laid upon the natural surface may be concealed byencouraging the growth of grass. The simulation of roads
171

1

2
Figure172

Parked airplanes

Parked helicopters
170.

Dispersed parking.

~~
...
i~~t
~i,~
*
~
~*, ;
~*

-!i;!ia~, !i
Fiii;f;!ai!

~~~i~

¸¸

**~i!ii~~eZ ~:!i !i~~i·~......

? !

*:S~~~~~~~~~·~ v ~ ;z~~'~,~~!~ ~~~', '~~, '~i~,q i~ ,~ i*~'~ :~ i~.* x , ~Figur 171

Figuxre 171.

,~, ·

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i1
!

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,

~, ~ .~~ .~,Prknsielaedidakhevlteurdera.

Parking site located in dark, heavnilyu textured terrain.

173

1

2
3

Figure 172.

174

Existing roads
Overhead concealment
Natural terrain lines

Features to consider in good traffic plan of airfield.

1 Orchard
2 Fields
3 Hedges
Figure173.

Ground patterns created on all-turf airfield.

3
Figure 174.

1
Burning2Distributing material
Mowing

Methods used to simulate ground patterns.

175

or paths, or both, crossing the runways is an effective methodof disrupting the regular pattern. Hard surfaced runways
and taxiways may be textured and colored to blend into thesurrounding terrain by the use of various materials describedin FM 5-22.
(2) It is to be expected that the enemy will be able to discover
the location of an airfield, particularly the runways and taxiways, through a careful study of aerial photographs, intelligence reports, and from observation of military activities.
In many cases, it is not the intent of camouflage to conceal

.CA,

1
2
3
4

Figure 175.

';

Portion of runway toned down
Untreated portion of airfield
Simulated road
Toned down structures

Texturing of airfield and simulation of road on installation.

the runways completely but to reduce their visibility to apoint where the enemy bombardier will have difficulty inobtaining a clear sight from the distance necessary for successful bombing and to eliminate a target of opportunity.
Figue 175 shows the runway of a tactical airfield. The left
portion of the runway is toned down (1, fig. 175). The right
portion has not been treated (2, fig. 175). A simulated roadcrosses buildings and runways (3, fig. 175). Tonedownbuildings are shown in 4, figure 175. Paint, alone, applied
to a smooth runway surface does not produce a satisfactory
tonedown. Texturing material, such as stone chips, must176

be firmly attached to the runway by means of an adhesiveto create the texture necessary to blend the runway surface
with the terrain. Figure 176 shows the contrast between
a textured and an untextured portion of a runway, and thecontrast between painted and textured runways.
c. Overall Pattern. When the expenditure of materials and labor
is permissible, the next step in camouflage of airfields is the application of an overall pattern. The aim of this step is to give the1

2

Figure176.

Foreground of runway has been painted

Texturing material has been added to runway

Contrast between textured and an untextured portion of runway.

177

entire airfield the appearance of the surrounding country. 1, 2, and3, figure 177, show an airfield oil which hedge and tree and grass
patterns have been simulated by texturing and painting the surfaceof the entire base. Tbie size, shape, and color of the newly createdground patterns have been designed to match the patterns of thesurrounding country. The roads which have been simulated on' theairfield continue to actual road nets existing outside the installation(4, fig. 177).
-

F

Figure 177.

1

Simulated trees

2
3
4

Simulated grass terrain
Simulated hedges
Simulated roads

Airfield with simulated terrain features.

d. Treatment of Revetments. Because revetments have a regularshape and a contained shadow, which is a shadow created within
the revetment by the revetment itself, their camouflage is a difficult
problem to solve. When revetments are partially dug into the sidesof hills, the problem is easier. The more irregular the shape andthe more gradual the slopes of revetments, the easier they are to
camouflage. Earthwork revetments may be seeded to give themtexture and color and to conceal new spoil. This treatment may be
improved by planting small shrubs or vines to break up the form
178

and contained shadow. If time and facilities permit, tree planting
is an effective measure (fig. 178). The construction of simulated
civilian structures, such as farm buildings, over revetments is anelaborate method of concealing them. Another method requiringmuch material is to completely screen the inclosure of a revetment
with overhead netting. However, this method rarely fools an aerial
camera, although it may succeed in concealing the fact that an aircraft or supplies are beneath the netting.
e. Large Operational Structures. Although maintenance facilities and other structures are partially blended into their surroundings either by a single-color tonedown or by pattern-painting, these.

4

Figure 178. Trees planted on revetment to break up shape and shadow.

measures do not eliminate the large shadows of such structures (fig.
179). The most practical way to eliminate these shadows is to site
structures among trees or tall shrubs. Trees close to a building
distort and break up the shape and size of the shadow. If necessary, trees and shrubs can be transplanted near structures to supplement existing growth. Pattern painting is combined with thisgrowth to complete the blending of such structures with the terrain(fig. A80). When the terrain has little or no vegetation, nets supported on cables and garnished with artificial materials are stretchedfrom the outer edge of structures to the ground in a gentle slope(fig. 181). If the terrain is mottled with scattered growth, thesloping nets should be blended into the terrain pattern created by
the scattered growth.
f. Small Structures. Methods of concealing small airfield structures include proper site selection, digging in, construction resembling
179

8

7Q

Figure 179.

Airfield structure pattern painted but obvious because of large
shadow.

Figturc 180.

Pattern painted structure sited among trees to eliminate shadow.

180

V/

Figure 181.

Slope net.

native structures (fig. 182), and tonedown by pattern-painting or
texturing and by use of artificial and natural materials. Isolated
operational structures, such as radio and control huts, are best concealed by digging them in and covering them with natural materials(fig. 183).

¢
_,

at

,,

Figure 182.

u i',

i

'

.

X

Airfield structure built to resemble native houitng.

181

g. Dispersed Cantonments. A typical well-dispersed cantonmentis shown in figure 184. Concealment offered by existing trees andshrubs has been used to advantage. The hutments on the left are
more conspicuous than those on the right. because the buildings havenot been toned down. Except at low altitudes, the righthand can-FtgnreOer~tynlstucur~~ 18

tomnareamgteaiyecpedrc
tometbulinsca b

permits,
dirptv
~
~

patrn
·-

Figure 183.

dg n

neyosrato.Cn
onddonwihisuecmofag

oe

nto

rthe

olr

ait

nces

Operationalstructure dug in.

tonment area might easily escape direct enemy observation. Can182i~
tonment
buildings can be toned down with issue camouflage paint.
For a hasty job, one well-chosen color is to be used. When time
permits, disruptive patterns done in two or three colors increase
concealment against low-altitude observation.
h. Camouflage Discipline. Refer to paragraph 12b.
182

i. Landing Aids. Panels and other landing aids are displayed
only when required. When pilots are familiar with the landing area,
the aids are removed and displayed only for visiting aircraft.
j. Aircraft Parking. Adequate parking areas for visiting aircraft
should be provided together with signs or other means to guide pilots
to concealment.
k. Field Lighting. Field lighting must be concealed to prevent
ground or oblique aerial observation. Light emitted from airfieldlighting fixtures can be controlled by use of the combat hood attached
to all fixtures for this purpose. Fixtures may be blended into the

Figure 184.

Dispersed cantonment.

terrain pattern by use of natural materials or by painting and texturing to match the terrain color. See TM 5-251 for a descriptionof runway and landing area lighting.
100. Illustrating Camouflage Plan for Airfields
a. Major steps in the camouflage of an airfield are shown in thefollowing series of illustrations. Camouflage construction proceeded concurrently with the construction of runways, taxiways,
housing, and technical buildings. The camouflage plan consisted ofleaving undisturbed many of the farm groups existing in the area,
texturing and painting all paved surfaces, and frequent use of netting
183

-I=It;-<1

Proposed layout

-,,

2

{^

Construction scars

FigDure 185. Illustrating camouflage
plan for airfield.

184

t'

. a

for purposes of hiding, blending, and deceiving. Uniformity of texture was given to artificial ground patterns, where they extended beyond the limits of paved surfaces, by the use of stabilized mats, whichwere not designed to carry traffic. Texturing materials were woodchips, corncob chips, and sand. Textured and painted patterns represented solid fields, striped and mottled fields, buildings, and trees.
Some roads and buildings were simulated by spraying ground witha weed-killing chemical.
b. An aerial photo of site and surroundings before work was started
is shown in 1, figure 185. Proposed layout is superimposed to show
relationship to surroundings. 2, figure 185, shows construction scars.

ingsbut roof netting is not yet installed.
3

Large

In 3 figure 185 a large

net has been erected over parking area

Figure 185--Continued.

f3

Laattoprge
net has been erected over parking Stabilized
area.
areas arenot yet textured and painted.
c. The photograph in 4, figure 185, was taken from 2,000 feet. It
shows the appearance of one runway after stabilized mats have been
textured, but before all of them have been painted. The runway has
begun to disappear in the pattern of farming sections. In the foreground, within the triangle formed by runways, is a group ofabandoned farm buildings left intact. Fields within the triangle
continue to be cultivated, bearing crops common to the locality, such
185

^

·

4

Appearance of one runway after stabilized mats have been texturedN

4~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Z ?, _ f5Camouflage plan nearing completion
Figure 185-Continued.

A

1\0-db--d

_.

4b

86

-·

j

*i

he

Camouflage plan nearing· completionFigu~re 185--Continued.

186

as corn, soy beans, and barley. The texture of fields bearing each ofthese crops varies from dark to light and great care has been takenin the assignment of crops to fields, in order to produce an overall
pattern which is indistinguishable from the pattern of the neighborhood. An aerial photo taken at 10,000 feet, 5, figure 185, shows work
nearing completion. Sharp contrasts in mottled fields are being toned
down and blended together. Rough fringes of runways are not yet
entirely painted. The completed job from 7,000 feet is shown in 6,
figure 185.

6

Camouflage plan completedFigure 185-Continued.

Section II. CAMOUFLAGE OF AIRCRAFT
101. Operational Requirements
Camouflage measures designed to conceal Army aircraft on the
ground range from simple field expedients in which locally available
materials are used, to the use of the shadow net, a net used to absorb
the shadow of aircraft. Even without the use of special camouflage
materials, aircraft can be overlooked by high-altitude observation if
shine and glare are concealed. Aircraft must be able to get into the
air quickly and get off the runway quickly when they land. Camouflage measures must not interfere with these operational requirements.
187

1
2

Figure 186.

,-y'i '."6--.P;-

Incorrect parking
Correct parking

Parking of aircraft to blcnd with natural terrain features.

4

,

+_

Figure 187. Proximn4ty of shadow-casting trees helps make concealment of Army188

102. Site Selection
Aircraft should be sited in an area where there is quick access totaxiways and runways (1 and 2, fig. 170). For this reason particularcare should be taken to select parking sites with which aircraft may
be made to blend quickly and easily with natural terrain and foliage
which helps to eliminate shadow (fig. 186). In some cases it may benecessary to move aircraft to a new location once or twice a day to
reduce the possibility of detection through the changing shadowscaused by the various positions of the sun.
a. Wooded Terrain. When choosing a hasty site for the parkingof aircraft in wooded terrain, an opening is required for the tail orrotors of the aircraft and also overhanging foliage to break thestraight-lined silhouette of the aircraft (fig. 171).
b. Snow Country. In snow-covered terrain concealment is difficult.
Some concealment is gained by dispersal to take advantage of scattered tree shadows (fig. 187).
c. Cultivated Areas. In agriculturally patterned terrain hedgerows and patterns of cultivation are used to make aircraft less conspicuous. Tracks of the aircraft are controlled to follow natural
planting lines from roads to parking sites (fig. 188).

Figure 188.

Aircraft in cultivated area.

189

Figure 189.

Aircraft in desert area.

ofb reeusd
mat eimiateorton don larin

ufcsscd. Desert Areas. Aircraftcan be inconspicuous in desert terrain if
asisigia
lexglaan
nd ovredcneleti
istrt
he hap ad sado
ofthparkedof
scrub
growth(fig. 189).
aircrf in clumps
fg10
hro thinve103. Natural Materials
Good site selection in itself does not eliminate the possibility ofenemy observers detecting the location of aircraft. To further reduce this possibility, natural materials are used to improvise overhead
cover where it is not otherwise available. A few freshly cut branchesof trees may be used to eliminate or tone down glaring surfaces suchas plexiglas and insignia and to distort the shape and shadow of theaircraft (fig. 190). Where overhead concealment is too thin overaircraft placed between small trees, branches and treetops may bepulled together with rope, wire, or vines. In open and treeless terrain, the shadow of the aircraft may be toned down by parking theplane
in a naturalsedepression
in the ground ongain
and placing scrub
growth190esmyboeiiaeortn
ufcsscon the tail assembly, nose, and all glaring surfaces (fig. 191). Although the shadow is still present it is so close under the wing that
it is not easily detected from the air.

190

Figure 190.

Figure191.

Foliage used to distort shape and shadow.

Scrub growth used for camouflage in open terrain.

104. Dispersion
Proper dispersion means more than spacing parked aircraft at a
distance from one another; it means scattering them so they wvill sustain the least possible damage from bombing or strafing attack. In
figure 192 the aircraft parked at (1) should be moved to parking area(2) for adequate dispersion. Aircraft in line are extremely vulnerable to such attacks. Dispersion also facilitates the use of naturalconcealment and thus reduces the visibility of targets. Properly dispersed aircraft offer the enemy an unprofitable target.

105. Track Concealment
The enemy observer may not be able to see aircraft which are wellconcealed or dispersed on the ground (2, fig. 193). However, if hesees tracks leading from a landing strip or taxiway to the parking
191

4,

1
2

Improper parking locations
Parking with adequate dispersion

Figure 192.

Dispersed aircraft parking.

area or a wooded area, he can often determine the type of aircraft(2 and 3, fig. 193). To lessen this possibility the tracks must be concealed by one of several methods. Cut vegetation may be placed over
the tracks (1, fig. 193). The tracks may be brushed out with saplings,
shovels, or brooms, or it may even be necessary to plant grass.

106. Shine and Insignia
a. Light reflects from metal and plexiglas surfaces with a shinethat can be seen from great distances. The shine of uncovered metaland plastic surfaces can be detected through well-garnished camouflage nets. The moment an aircraft is parked camouflage must begin.
All glass, plastic, and unpainted metal surfaces must be covered (fig.
194). Dark cloth is the most practical material to use. Light-coloredcloth affords no concealment and is not to be used except in predominantly snow areas. If cloth is not available, freshly cut foliage
or similar locally available material can be substituted (figs. 190 and191). The insignia on the upper surface of the left wing, if a plane,
and on the rear and sides of the fuselage of planes and helicoptersmust also be covered. An otherwise well-concealed aircraft may be

192

1
2
3

Aircraft has not been camouflaged, tracks have been concealed by brush
Parking area of completely concealed aircraft revealed by tracks
Tracks of aircraft and servicing vehicles reveal parking area of partially concealed
aircraft

Figure 193.

Parking areas revealed by lack of camouflage.

Figure194.

Covering shine and insignia on H-19 helicopter.

193

spotted from low-altitude observation by the color and shape of theinsignia (figs. 194 and 195).
b. In order to conceal windshields, windows, propellers of planes,
and helicopter rotor blades and other highly reflective areas whichhave not been camouflaged, covers should be used. These covers
should be of a color that best matches the general camouflage schemeof the aircraft. Lightweight camouflage covers may be fabricatedfrom standard camouflage materials.

Figure 195.

Covering shine and insignia.

107. Shadow Nets
Shadow nets placed on the ground, particularly under an aircraft,break its outline and distort its shadow even when it is completely
in the open. The effectiveness of a net increases in proportion to thenumber of shadows or other dark areas. Shadow nets are camouflage
nets garnished to appear to be a group of irregular dark patches.
Garnishing should be 60 percent black and 40 percent olive drab.
A 10-inch border of dark green garnishing is added in the temperatezone to blend the net with the terrain (fig. 196). If these materials
are not available, dark cloth with holes torn in it can be used successfully. Dark patches can also be produced by burning rags, brush, orother debris to produce ashes or by pouring crankcase drainings or
black paint on the ground. Nets or cloth have an advantage however194

in that they can be reused. If helicopters are to land and take offfrom these nets or cloth, care must be taken to anchor the nets or cloth
securely against the air turbulence caused by the rotor blades.
108. Umbrellas
Another technique of supplementary concealment in wooded areas isto suspend a series -of overhead frames, or umbrellas, from wires strung
between the trees. These umbrellas can be made of cut branches,
trimmed and tied together with wire. Hung at varying heights
29' 0"_r _.Holes~. ,10" Border of darkgreen garnishing(temperate zone)
Figure 196.

· _X
~\

in netto distortpattern

60% Black garnishing
40% Olive drab
Typical shadow net.

above aircraft, the umbrellas simulate treetops (fig. 197). Freshfoliage is used for garnishing the frames and must be replaced as
it withers. Umbrellas may also be garnished with other camouflage
materials such as burlap, steel wool, glass fiber, and chicken feathers.
109. Hammock
A twine or wire net hammock hung between trees gives additional
overhead protection in thinly wooded areas. Nets are to be garnished with artificial materials or with a combination of natural andartificial materials. Hammocks are effective only against verticalview (fig. 198).
195

'_

,+

. i. ;~2~~*

Figure 197.

~

~

~

~

Umbrella simulating treetops installed over H-2 helicopter.

9,

Figure 198.

196

Halmocke

~

~

~

~

~A
~

, "''

above aircraft to give additional overhead cover.

110. Checklist for Effective Concealment of Aircraft
a. Revealing signs of activity nearby are to avoided.
b. Shiny parts and brightly-colored insignia are to be covered.
c. Shape is to be distorted by placing foliage at edges or corners.
d. Aircraft are to be located, whenever possible, near shadow-casting trees or structures to facilitate concealment but landmarks or
isolated features are to be avoided.
e. Constant inspection and maintenance is performed to insure theeffectiveness of the camouflage plan.
/. Strict adherence to camouflage discipline is to be maintainedat all times.

111. Camouflage Painting
a. General. Camouflage painting is one of several camouflage
measures which should be taken to make army aircraft less visible
to hostile observation. Proper camouflage painting will enable anaircraft to blend into its surroundings by distorting features, minimizing contrast with terrain coloration, and reducing the shine which
results from high gloss finishes. It should be pointed out, however,that camouflage painting is only effective against observation when
the terrain is in the background. Its ability to blend into thisirregular terrain background provides an appreciable degree of concealment, not only against ground-to-ground and air-to-ground observation but against air-to-air observation from above as well. Camouflage painting is of little use to an aircraft silhouetted against thesky since the distinct outline of the aircraft stands out against thebrightness of the sky. Thus camouflage painting against groundto-air observation is of negligible value.
b. Basic Canouflage Color.
(1) General. The principal step in the camouflage paintingof aircraft is the painting of the exterior with a lusterless
paint of the optimum color for the terrain over which theaircraft will operate. The paint used for this basic camouflage color will normally be emulsifiable camouflage paint,
but gasoline-removable paint can be used if only a temporary
coat is desired.
(2) Temperate and jungle areas. The basic camouflage color
recommended for use in temperate and jungle areas andother areas of heavy vegetation is olive drab.
(3) Desert areas. Because of large variations in desert coloring, no single color can be used as the basic camouflage color
in all desert areas. Sand, desert sand, earth yellow, earth
red, or even mixtures of these may be better in certain areas.
197

Use should be made of the color that best matches the predominate color of the particular terrain over which theaircraft is to be used.
(4) Snow areas. In partial snow areas where the terrain is
not predominately snow covered or where there are snowsof short duration, olive drab should be used as the basic
camouflage color.
(5) Arctic areas. In areas where the terrain is predominately
snow covered such as winter arctic, or in partial snow areas
where there is considerable snow for long periods of time,
aircraft should be painted completely white.
c. Disruptive Pattern.
(1) General. The basic camouflage color alone provides a highdegree of concealment. In some situations, camouflage may
be improved by the use of a disruptive pattern. The best
pattern for general use consists of one or more large irregular areas of a second color to give the aircraft the appearance of being broken into unrelated portions. A disruptive
pattern is effective only as long as it is discernible as apattern. It is discerned because of the color and brightness
contrasts involved. Greater contrasts permit detection of
the pattern from greater distances. However, the allowable
contrast in the pattern is limited by the contrasts in thesurrounding terrain. Color or brightness contrasts which
are not present in the terrain background cause the patterned item to become more conspicuous than if no pattern
had been applied, and should not be used. Figures 199,
200, and 201 illustrate possible camouflage schemes. These
are simply suggestions, however; no one set pattern should
be followed because variation in the appearance of aircraft
is desirable (fig. 202). The number of areas of application is largely dependent on the size of the aircraft. Eacharea should be large enough to disrupt the shape of theaircraft. Because small areas tend to blend into one color
when viewed at a distance, intricate and multicolor patterns
are not effective for aircraft camouflage. A disruptive pattern may be sprayed on, brushed on, or applied by any othermethod available.
(2) Temperate and jungle areas. Black should be used for the
disruptive pattern in temperate and jungle areas and inother heavily vegetated areas.
(3) Desert areas. Ordinarily black should be used for the disruptive pattern in desert areas. However, in areas of very
light shadows, olive. drab should be used.
198

I

I

BASIC CAMOUFLAGE COLORDISRUPTIVE

Figure 199.

PATTERN

Pattern for H-34 helicopter.

WI BASIC CAMOUFLAGE COLOR
Ei~jFigure 200.

DISRUPTIVE PATTERN
Pattern for H-21 helicopter.

199

BASIC CAMOUFLAGE COLORDISRUPTIVE PATTERN
fti/urre o20. Pattertn for L-20.

200

-

1
2
3
4
Figure 202.

Standard
Solid color with cloth pattern
Interim pattern
Field pattern
Variations of disruptivc patterns.

201

(4) Snow areas. In partial snow areas where the terrain is notpredominately snow covered or where there are snows ofshort duration, aircraft should remain olive drab without
a disruptive pattern. In areas where the terrain is predominately snow covered or areas where there is considerable
snow for long periods of time, aircraft should be painted
completely white without a disruptive pattern.
(5) Alterrnate Jmeasures. In parking areas where it is undesirable to use paint for the disruptive pattern, one or twolarge, irregular pieces of cloth in the disruptive patterncolor can be used.
112. Undersurfaces and Antiglare Surfaces
Painting of undersurfaces has little or no value as a camouflage
measure and it is recommended that these surfaces be left in the basic
camouflage color of the aircraft. Light-colored undersurfaces do notconceal aircraft in flight except at very high altitudes, because theaircraft is silhouetted against the sky and appears as a dark object
regardless of its color. All antiglare surfaces such as the top of thefuselage in front of the pilot's compartment and the inboard upper
one-fourth of the engine nacelles forward of the leading edge of thewing on multiengine aircraft should be left in lusterless black.
113. Helicopter Rotor Bladesa. When other technical considerations are not prohibitive, helicopter rotor blades should be painted as follows:(1) Upper surface (except in Arctic areas)--olive drab.
(2) Upper surface (Arctic areas)--white.
(3) Under surface-black.
b. In cases where rotor blades have not been painted in the above
manner, covers should be used.
114. Markings
For concealment on the ground it is essential that conspicuous
identification marking such as "U. S. ARMY," the national insignia,
and radio call numbers be hidden; otherwise, even the best of camouflage efforts might be defeated. These conspicuous markings are
detrimental even to camouflage which may be complete in all otherrespects. In some instances it may be feasible to obliterate thesemarkings by painting over them. In other cases it may be desirable
to use markings intermittently. When markings cannot be removed,care should be taken that markings are well concealed with clothor foliage or by other means. Simply replacing glossy yellow, white,
red, or blue colors in markings with lusterless black will greatly reduce the conspicuousness of markings while still retaining them for
identification purposes.
202115. Limitations
It is important to understand that the camouflage painting of anaircraft, whether in pattern or solid color, affects only the color andto some degree the shine of the item. While these aspects of visibility
are often the identifying features, it is more often true that the item's
shape and shadow and the surrounding evidence of activity are soconspicuous as to permit detection regardless of color. The camouflage painting of aircraft is therefore to be regarded as a valuableasset, but only when used in conjunction with normal camouflage
precautions. Full advantage of camouflage painting can only be
gained if intelligent use is made of good siting, dispersion, track
concealment, camouflage discipline, natural foliage, and artificial
materials.

203

CHAPTER 12
FIELD EXPEDIENTS
116. General
Field expedients are used only after all means of natural concealment have been exhausted. Expedients such as nets, dummy shelters,
and artificial garnishing add to the logistical problem. Therefore
artificial materials are to be used only in areas of sparse vegetation
or in areas where slashings of natural material will disclose theposition. Field expedients discussed in the following paragraphs are
adaptable to infantry weapons emplacements, antiaircraft artillery,field artillery, and vehicles:
a. Machinegun Flattop. The simple flattop for the machinegun
with a ground fire mission requires no framework. Four posts about
2 feet long, No. 10 wire, and a garnished 15- by 15-foot twine net isall that is required. Corner posts are not driven; they rest on the
ground and are held in place by strands of wire tightened by racking
the guys. When wire is not available tent guyropes can be used.
Corners of the net are slipped over the posts before racking. To
dismantle the flattop the corner posts are knocked out, allowing theflattop to collapse. 1, figure 203, shows this type of flattop. The
garnishing is thinned out toward the edges and the whole structure is
as close to the -ground as possible. The corner posts, 2, figure 203, areguyed to the ground. This type of flattop net can also be made withnatural material such as vines and bushes interwoven.
b. Buggy Top. For a firing position, especially in terrain withnatural foliage, the folding buggy top conceals the machinegun andaffords a 3600 field of fire for antiaircraft firing and 180 ° field offire for ground missions. The buggy top can be folded back quickly
allowing the gunners to engage aerial or ground targets. When
opened for firing, the whole structure lies flat on the ground. Construction details are shown in figure 204. The frame can be made ofpipe, saplings, or.lumber. Hinges are made either of No. 10 wire,
driftpins, pieces of scrap leather, or stock door hinges and stakes
pivoted on pins made of wire. The net used is a 15- by 15-footgarnished twine net. Care must be taken to insure that the vegetation around the position is not disturbed by the buggy top when
opened. If the vegetation does become damaged, steps must be
taken immediately to restore it to its natural appearance. To com204

12

Pregarnished net on wire frame
Detail showing post guyed upright

Figutre 203.

Mocbinegun #attop.

plete concealment, small bushes can be placed irregularly aroundedges of net.
c. Swinging Flattop. For a firing position, especially in terrain
with natural foliage, the swinging flattop conceals a machinegun andaffords a 360 ° field of fire for antiaircraft and 180 ° for ground fire
missions. The swinging flattop is a cantilever structure hinged on a
post or stump of a tree at one corner. The swinging flattop pivots
205

a)

3~~~~~

w wZ

Z cr
0

m
4
M

:

r:m
U
0

.zw~

/ 0~~~~~~
/
Z
,-

206

'A-

-

206

z~

nr~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~con a simply constructed hinge, as illustrated in figure 205, and although the suspended span is easily pushed aside, construction demands a slight upward slope from hinge to outer edge to equalize
the tension and pressure on the post; the whole structure should be
as low to the surrounding vegetation as possible.
d. Sliding Cover. In some situations it will be advantageous to
use a field expedient sliding cover over the emplacement (1 and 2,
fig. 206). This is constructed from materials at hand and in a manner dictated by the nature of the materials used. The entire cover isdesigned to slide across the top of the emplacement to provide
concealment.
,,WIRE EDGE FOR NET

RP
SUSPENSIONa="'FRAMEPOLE

PIVOT POST~FRAMEPOLEFRWIRE EDGE
FORNETSUSPENSIONROPE

PIVOTING A-FRAME

IVOT POST

Figure 205.

Swinging flattop construction.

e. Igloo. In deliberate positions, where the emplacement cannot
be dug in and the terrain is broken with bushes and rocks, an igloo(fig. 207) is an effective quick-opening cover for mortars. Simply
constructed, it is made of two sapling bows covered with two 15- x
15-foot garnished twine nets and wire hinges. A wire hook holds
the top of the bows together when the igloo is closed. Lifting thehook permits igloo to open.
f. Hinged Fallaway Tree8. One method of concealing a .50 caliber ground or antiaircraft firing position is illustrated in (1, 2, and3, fig. 208). Trees are cut and hinged at their base and guyed tolean outward (1, fig. 208) so they fall away from the position wheninside guys which are 'hooked to notched stakes (2 and 3, fig. 208)
are released.
207

-

DIRECTIONOF SLIDEHOLDFAST

4"DIA. POSTS t
USE BOARDORSPLITLOG FOR FOOTING.

1'
SECTION

3Dim.
/P

a//a~~~~~6O/-/

mmr~~rAND WRAPE'.-PIECE
FOR SPACER -//CORNERS-

WlRE BETWEENFRAMING DETAILRACK TWO#IO \WIRES FOR SLIDENOTE WIRE SLINGFOR POSITIONING-',4" DIA. POST_-ll___~~~~~REAR

TIL.;7~~~~~O

USE SPLIT LOG FOR
FOOTINGSUSPENSION aSLIDE DETAIL
2

Figure 206.

208

W

Suspension and slide detail

Sliding cover construction detail.

POLE RESTSYSLIDE
-ON

0

z

W

g~~~~~

0WCDzo~~~~~

5~

~

~~

W(D

20

0

=

C-~~~~~~~C

20

W
C/)

2

1
2
3

Erected
Opened ready for firing
Notched stakes

Figure 208.

Hinged fallaway trees.

g. Dummy House. The canvas house shown in 1 and 2, figure
209, can be constructed quickly and with materials normally available
in the area. With this type of concealment of the emplacement anantiaircraft gun can fire at targets of opportunity and more likely
remain undetected by the enemy.
h. Dummy Rocks. A dug-in antiaircraft gun can be effectively
concealed by means of a rolling cover such as the one shown in figure
210.
i. Sliding Flattop for AA Gun. The sliding flattop, in two sections designed to move to opposite sides, enables an AA gun in a
defensive dug-in position to fire quickly from a concealed emplacement. This flattop consists of two wooden frames, each 13 x 16 feet,210

CANVAS HOUSE WITH
COLLAPSIBLE ROOF
FOR AA GUNLOCKING UNITSHINGES

CLOSED\"\:.OPEN"'1",,,',,CORD

STIFF WIRE

DETAIL OF WI RE LOCKCANVASHANGING FLAPWIRE LOCKCANVAS-COVERED-'"-'~/ I--"-~lgl- t24

J\-ENDELEVATION24J

END ELEVATION
Elevation and isometric views
Canvas house with collapsible roof for AA gun.
1

Figure 209.

211

CABLE AND CANVASFOR LEFT HALF OFCANVAS ROOF

Ii'

CABLE, CANVAS, AND LOCKINGUNIT FOR RIGHT HALF OF ROOF

ai~
RESTRAINING
LOOP

f/I

-~~~~~~>--~ ~CANVASROOF-

ST RIPI.rS

.-

,

STRIP
FOR PULLING RIDGE

CORD

CABLES TOGETHER'/4 CABLE SUPPORTING

CORD

ROOF CANVASDEN,/h330SIDE ELEVATION
2

Details of cable. canvas, and locking unit

Figure 209-Continued.

212

ROLLING COVER OF DUMMYROCKS FOR AA GUN

,

'

81'

{ APPROX.

',, :WIRES SUPPORTINGGARNISHEDWIRE NETTING

II I

'

ARTIFICIAL

I',! '..ROCKS

,,

i,
~
! '~ ,

,
i,

:

i
;

i

5'

.--)

SHADED AREAWIRE GARNISHED
WITH FEATHERSROCKS PULLEDTOGETHER BY
PULLEY AND ROPESECTION(COVER HALF OPEN)

ROCKS MADE OF PLASTER
SMEARED OVER BURLAP
COVERING WOOD AND_PLATFORM

WIRE FRAME
TRACK. .~ Pv

TROCKSMADE.

DETAIL OF
ROLLER ON TRACK
Figure 210.

GARNISHED WIRE

OF.PLASNETTINGCROSS SECTION(ALONG LINE OF OPENING)

Rolling cover of dummnly rocks for AA gun.

213

covered with garnished wire netting. Frames are supported on two
wire cables, on which they slide. Cables are attached to pointed
stakes, 1, figure 211, by strips of tin. Grooved end stakes, 2, figure
211, stop the frames when they are pushed open. Frames slide on
tin-lined and greased blocks, 3, figure 211. Netting projects irregularly at sides of frame.
j. Umbrella Type for 3-Inch Mobile AA Gun. In a situation wherea more permanent type of camouflage is desired the cover shown in
1 and 2, figure 212, can be constructed.
117. Drape Nets
a. Drape nets are the principal artificial expedient used for the
camouflaging of vehicles or equipment. Drape nets are used whenconcealment by natural methods or materials cannot be obtained,or to supplement natural methods or materials in sparsely vegetatedareas such as desert or barren areas, predominant snow areas, andthinly wooded areas (fig. 213). The drape nets vary in size, depending on the size of vehicle or piece of equipment to be covered. Drape
nets are pregarnished and are a standard item of issue. For information on drape net sizes, see appendix II.
b. Drape nets are usually erected over the vehicles or equipment
after it has been dispersed and sited in the parking area. However,if the length, width, and height of the vehicles or equipment to becovered is known, the nets may be erected in the parking area before
the vehicles or equipment arrives in the area. In either method oferection the drape nets may remain erected while the vehicles or
equipment are being used to support the unit mission (fig. 214).
118. Erection Proceduresa. The erection procedures described and illustrated in this paragraph can be used for all types of vehicles or equipment. The vehicles
were sited for clear and concise illustrations of erection procedures.
The ideal place to site the net in this type terrain is shown in figure
213.
b. The vehicle should be sited to eliminate as much shine andshadow as possible. To eliminate the remaining shine the windshield,
lights, and reflectors are covered (fig. 215). Shine of the vehicle iscovered before net is erected over the vehicle or immediately after
the vehicle, being used, is parked under the net.
c. The drape net is placed on top of the vehicle and unfolded
diagonally to the long axis of the vehicle as indicated in figure 216
or if the vehicle is in operation, the net is unfolded so the net will
be diagonal to the long axis of the vehicle when parked under the
net (fig. 217).
214

SLIDING FLAT-TOP
FOR AA GUNGUN EMPLACEMENTrPERSPECTIVE(r
SLOPING

PROTRUDING|'~1 -|~ -..':.~=-.-:-

~

/

,~-

'"II1"'"t.
,..

~,.

.~

IJ~ 3

GARNISHEDWIRE NE~TT/NG

WITH TIN. :DETAIL 3.

WIRE

This flat-top consists of two wooden frames, each 13 by 16 feet, covered
with garnished wire netting.
Frames are supported on two wire cables,on which they slide. Cables are attached to pointed stakes, 1, by stripsof tin. Grooved end stakes, 2, stop the frames when they are pushedopen. Frames slide on tin-lined and greased blocks, 3. Netting
projects irregularly at sides of frames.
123Figure 211.

Pointed stakes
Grooved end stakeTin-lined greased blocks

Sliding flattop for AA gun.

215

UMBRELLA-TYPE COVER
FOR 3-INCH MOBILE AA GUN

1Figure212.

:216

Plan andclevation

Umbrella type oover for 3-inch, mobile AA gun.

BARREL

PLAN
101

A

.

3

5

SCALE IN FEET

2" x 2" x /4"
P

IRON.SNGLEII~~~

I" STEEL
ROD

2

,

I

i

TE
L BOLLARTODCRADLECL
GUNFORBCARRIAGE
~

~

l

a-

ELEVATION

MOUFRONT

2

Detail sowing bracingr--_
DETAIL OF_

LEFT SIDE ELEVATION AT TRUNNIONQCOLLAR
MOUNT

2Detail showing bracing

Figltre 212--Continued.

217

Figure 213. Drape net erected over vehicle in wooded area.

Figure 214. One edge of drape net raised for departing vehicle.

218

ii~~~~~~~~~~~~!!i~a~IFigure~15.

-U-i,-1

Cdrewn covering windshield, lights, and reflectors.

219

!

:

S

ti
;ig
.;

ti1

A

. S.1

·;w

S- .

Li;~~~i;:'',<Is;,,:

,,''

Si

t;.,,

,

*_,,

bb?

,

.

,,,,

t,

%0

^

.

*2.2
;b

.w
.bo.
iff';f-:Yl 0;?
? ,.*,

V,·~~~~f·"-f(t~ i'1ri

X, l|iEg j,:.S:Jft216.
Figre216.
Figz~re

220

X,

5

9

Rill

E |

l

r

9

ev1~~~~~~
lzi~;A

.?

<

<:,

r+,

>

'

.',,

.:':

i

vei.t le.
d;a-onallyover -elliele.
unfolded diagonallynet unfolded
Drape net
Drape

.:'

,

.

1

Figure 217.

Unfolding drape net On the ground.

221d. The drape net is unrolled and the corners are extended (1, fig.
218). Corney guy ropes are now extended, stakes driven, and guy
ropes looped over stakes as indicated in 2, figure 218. Similar steps
are followed in the erection of a drape net without vehicle in place(1 and 2, fig. 219).
e. The drape net should be raised to a minimum of 18 inches above
any part of the vehicle with support poles, made from saplings, as
indicated in figure 220. To prevent the saplings from cutting thenet, the ends of the saplings are padded with dark cloth.

1

Figure 218.

Extending corners of drape net

Extending and staking corners of drape net uwith vehicle in place.

f. Intermediate stakes should now be located and driven at approximately 12-foot intervals along the edges of the net as indicatedin figure 221 for both methods of erection. Guy ropes should now
be looped over stakes and adjusted.
g. The tracks of the vehicle should now be brushed out or covered
as illustrated in figure 111.
h. Net should now be trimmed by placing support poles to disrupt
any straight line effect and to insure that net gradually slopes toground and presents a low silhouette.
222

A

2

Staking corners of drape net

Figure 218-Continued.

1

Extending corners of drape net

Figure219. Extending and staking corners of drape net without vehicle.

223

2

Staking corners of drape net

Figure 219-Continued.

CROSS-SECTION OF NET ERECTED OVER VEHICLE
CAUTION: if this space
between net and vehicle
is not maintained,net
will not conceal.

hgphts covered with brush,
windshieldwith blanket
or torpaulin.

Figure 220.

224

saplings with tops podded,withdark cloth.
canvas flap lowered
to hide theshodowobreak up recognizable
shadows with brush.

net held tautby stakes.

Cross section of drape net erected over vehicle.

Figure 221.

Placing and driving intermediate stakes along the edges of thedrape net.

225

APPENDIX IREFERENCESDA Pam 108i1 IndexSof Army Motion Pictures, Film Strips, Slides,
and Phono-Recordings.
DA Pam 310-5 Military Publication-Index of Graphic Training
Aids and Devices.
DA Pam 310-Series Military Publications (as applicable).
AR 220-70 Companies General Provisions.
AR 320-5 Dictionary of United States Army Terms.
AR 320-50 Authorized Abbreviations.
FM 3-5 Tactics and Techniques of Chemical, Biological, and Radiological Warfare.
FM-3-50 Chemical Smoke Generator Battalion: and Chemical
Smoke Generator Company.
FM 5-5 Engineer Troop Units.
FM 5-6 Operations of Engineer Troop Units.
FM 5-15 Field Fortifications.
FM 5-22 Camouflage Materials.
FM 5-23 Field Decoy Installations.
FM 5-34 Engineer Field Data.
FM 5-35 Engineer's Reference and Logistical Data.
FM 21-5 Military Training.
FM 21-6 Techniques of Military Instruction.
FM 21-30 Military Symbols.
FM 30-5 Combat Intelligence.
FM 31-70 Basic Arctic Manual.
SM 5-4-1080-SO9 Camouflage Net Set, Field Artillery.
TM 3-240 Field Behavior of Chemical Agents.
TM 5-250 Roads and Airfields.
TM 5-251 Army Airfields and Heliports.
TM 30-245 Photographic Interpretation Handbook.
TM 30-246 Tactical Interpretation of Air Photos.
GTA 5-1 Concealment and Camouflage.
A Subj Scd 17-3 Scouting and Patrolling.

226

APPENDIX IITECHNICAL INFORMATION AND DATA ON INDIVIDUAL
DRAPE NETS AND DRAPE NETS SETS
Section I. INDIVIDUAL DRAPE NETS
1. Generala. This section provides a guide in determining the proper size andnumber of individual drape nets necessary to camouflage standard
military equipment. The drape nets described are standard items ofequipment and are stocked in the following sizes:(1) 22 ft. x 22 ft.

(2) 29 ft. x 29 ft.
(3) 36 ft. x 44 ft.

(4) 45 ft. x 45 ft.
b. These nets are issued in two garnishing color blends, the allseasonal and desert.

2. Determination of Net Sizes
In determining net sizes for military equipment in the field the ruleof thumb formula described in a, b, and e below, should be followed.
a. Width of Net. To obtain the width of a net, add width of theequipment to twice the height of the equipment, and then add 5 feet.
The purpose of the 5 feet is to gain enough net surface to keep the
net at least 11/2 feet above the equipment on all sides.
b. Length of Net. To obtain the, length of a net, add the length ofthe equipment to twice the height of the equipment, and then add
an additional allowance of 5 feet for the same purpose outlinedin the preceding paragraph.
c. Final Analysis. If the net size computed from this rule ofthumb formula falls between two standard issue net sizes, use thelarger size. In some cases two standard nets must be, jointed toobtain the proper sized net. Table I lists standard items of equipment and the size and number of drape nets required to conceal
equipment. If the particular item of equipment is not listed inthis table the formula outlined in a and b above, should be used.
227

Table I. Individual Drape Nets
Size individual drape nets
Type of vehicle or equipment

22 ft. x
22 ft.

29 ft. x
29 ft.

36 ft. x
44 ft.

45 ft. x
45 ft.

No. required per vehicle or equipment

Ambulance, %ton ----------------------------.
.__
1I
Ambulance, metro -------------------------------Ambulance, 1$• ton, 12 litter -................................
Asph and soil agg mixing plant 25 ton per hr:
Unit 1 -------------------------------------Unit 2 -------------------------------------Unit 3 -------------------------------------Unit 4 ----------------------------------.-.
1
Asphalt plant 10-30 ton per hr:
Unit 1 -------------------------------------Unit 2 -------------------------------------Auger, earth, skid-mtd -----------------------.....- Bulldozer, tank mtd, MiA1, M2, and M3 -.......................
Bus 4 x 2 .---------------------------------Bus, amb. 18 litter 4 x 2 ------------------------.........- Car, armored, light, M8-M20 --------------------.---- ----Car, halftrack, M2A1...
...................--------..
Carriage, half track, M16, M19A1, T106, M41, fulltrack -----------------------------Carriage, motor, M15A1, M18, M36B1, 105-mm
how M7, 240-mm how M1.-..................................
Carriage, motor, 90-mm gun, M36, M36B2, 155-mm
gun M40, 8 in. how M43 ------------------------------Carrier, halftrack, M3, M3A1 --------------------------Carrier, cargo, M29, M29C, T46E1......
Carrier, 81-mm mortar, halftrack M4, M4A1, M21.......--...
Carrier, universal T16...............................-Carrier, personnel, full track, M59
Crane, trk mtd, and tractor mtd -----------------..------Crane, trk mtd, M2_____.............................-- Conveyor belt, 24 ft x 57 ft -------------------3
Crushing & screening plant, 25 cu yd per hr:
Unit 1 ------------------------------------..
2
Unit 2 ---------------....-------...--------Distribution, bituminous, trailer mtd & water, trk
mtd-..--------.-.-.-.-.-.--.-.-.-------- -----------Dolly, trailer M363, M364, M197, 8-ton and 10-tono----1 Dryer, aggregate, 80 to 150 ton per hr, trailer mtd--.---------Finisher, asphalt crawler mtd, 12-ton ------------------1
Generator and charging plant, trl mtd, hydrogenand carbon dioxide
Generator and charging plant semitrailer mtd,
oxygen, nitrogen, and acetylene gas ------------...---Gradation, control unit, trl mtd ---------------------..
Grader, road, motorized -----------------------Gun, machine, .30-cal and .50-cal -.............
1
228

1
1
1
1
1

1
1
1 ....
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
2
1 --1 ----1
1-12
2

2
1
2

l--------------------......
2
1
1
I-

Table I. Individual Drape Nets-Continued
Size individual drape nets
Type of vehicle or equipment

22 ft. x
22 ft.

29 ft. x
29 ft.

36 ft. x
44 ft.

45 ft. x
45 ft.

No. required per vehicle or equipment. 1-1-----Gun, twin 40, T141 -------------------------..
2.....................-Gun, 155-mm T97-------_-1
Hearse, /4-ton 4 x 2 -------------------------1...........--............
Heater, asphalt, trailer mtd2...
..............-- -.
Howitzer, 155-mm, T99E1
1-_
Kettle, asphalt repair, trailer mtd -----------------.
1
Landing vehicle tracked MK4, LVT (4)2
Landing vehicle MK4, LVT (a) (4)__2--------.---------------MK5, LVT (a) (5)1Loader, shovel, tractor mtd %3cu. ydLoader, aggregate crawler mtd ---------------------1
I1
Mixer, rotary trl mtd power takeoff-_·_Mixer, rotary gas engine driven, trl mtd -------- -1-2
Mixer, asphalt diesel engine driven tral mtdMortar, 60-mm, 81 mm, and chemical 4.2 in .
...1
-1
Plow, snow, trk mtd 7Eton, 4 x 4 ---------------1--Pump, Water trl mtd and asphalt, trl mtd _--------Reproduction equip. 22 in. x 29 in. motorized trk,
1
4 ton, 6 x 6, van type body -------------------..............
Roller, road, gas driven, or towed, 2 axle 5- to 8-ton
13 w --------------------------------------------1
Roller, road, gas or diesel driven 3 w, 3 axle 9- to
1I----14-ton --------------------------------1
Scraper, road, towed type 1{ cu yd -----------.-------23}% cu. yd. and 6 cu. yd ---------------------......
8 cu. yd. or 12 cu. yd---1__, .
...................
1
1- ......1
Scraper, road, motorized, 1'2 cu. yd -..............Semitrailer, stake and platform, 31,4-ton to 5-ton,
2w
...
...
.
. .......................----------1--2
Semitrailer, stake and platform and cargo 6-ton ---........-----2
Semitrailer, van type, 3-ton 2w to 15-ton 2w_----------1------..............
Semitrailer 16-ton 2w to 25-ton 2w_
2
Semitrailer, transporter 40-ton-45-ton 2-wheel -----..............2
Semitrailer, w/dolly 20-ton, low bed ------------------1............--.......
Shop equip gen repair trk 2/i-ton 6 x 61.----------.......
Shop, mobile set No. 1, 12-ton
Sled,.cargo, 1 ton M1, M1A1, M14 and M14A1 ...
.1----------1
Station wagon 7 & 8 passenger 4 x 2 ...
1
Sweeper, rotary broom, 3w trl mtdTank, asphalt steel, trailer mtd, 1,500-gal --------------]
11--Tank, asphalt steel, trk mtd 800-gal, 4-ton, 6 x 6 --..................------1
Tank, water, steel semitrailer mtd --...
...
--.-.---1 -----Tank, light, M24 ---------------------------Tank, 76-mm gun, M4A1, M4A3, M26, M26A1,
2.....-- -.
M46, & M46A1 and 90-mm gun M47
1-----------.
Tank, medium, 75-mm gun, M4A1, M4A3_----229

Table I. Individual Drape Nets-Continued
Size individual drape nets
Type of vehicle or equipment

22 ft. x
22 ft.

29 ft. x
29 ft.

36 ft. x
44 ft.

45 ft. x
45 ft.

No. required per vehicle or equipment

Tank, medium, 105-mm how M4, & M4A3..
.
.
.
....................
1
Tank, medium, M45__
1
Tractor, crawler type, 20 DBHP.----.
1
Tractor, wheel type -...........................
1
Tractor, high-speed 7-ton -----------------------......
1
Tractor, crawler type, 36 to 45 DBHP.....--..
1
Tractor, high-speed, 12- to 18-ton.
---------.----1
Tractor, crawler type, 36 to 45 DBHP w/angle
dozer ---------------------------------1
Tractor, crawler type, 24,100 to 32,000 lb. DBP ---......- ---1
Tractor, earth moving, crawler, 46 to 140 DBHP
No. 1.....................................
1Tractor, wheel, pneumatic, 3-wheel 14,025 to
20,000 DBH -----------------------------------1
Tractor, high speed 28-ton and 38-ton -...........
1
Tractor, cargo M8E2 -..........................
1
Trailer, /4-to >'-ton 2w, Amm M10, oxygen servicing type El and E2 mount N-20 ----------1
Trailer, cargo, /4-ton, 2w, M101
I1
Trailer, cargo, 1-ton, 2-wheel...........--.......
1Trailer, cargo, 1z-ton, 2w, M104 ------------1
Trailer, tire repair, 1-ton, 2w, load A & B M-25___1
Trailer, water tank, 1-ton, l-ton 2w ---------------- __1Trailer, 14-ton, 2w, ARC welder -------------1
Trailer, 12-ton, 2w, 2-ton to 352-ton, 2w & 4w..
1Trailer, 2¼-ton, 2w cargo amphibian -.........
1
Trailer, 2/2-ton, 3w, M5 .-..............---------_
1
Trailer, 5-ton, 2w, cable splicer
1lTrailer, 6-ton, cargo tracked, (ATHEY), model
BT-898-1.................---...........
1
Trailer, 7- to 14-ton special tandem (4DT)...--.
1
Trailer, chemical handling, M2 ----------___
1
Trailer, clothing and textile repair 2w ------------..
1
Trailer, fire pumper 2w, 500 gpm-1
Trailer, laundry mobile, 2w, Nos. 1 & 22------ 1
Trailer, MT, M17 ------------------_'......
1
Trailer, 2w shoe repair..
1............--......
.
Trailer, shower bath ----------------------.......
1
Trailer, 1-ton, 2w, antenna, mount U 141t, 2-horse
van -----------------------------------1
Trailer, ly-ton, 2w cargo and lubricator ----------.... ----1 -Trailer, 2-ton, 2w director..........................-- 1
Trailer, 2-ton 4w, w/smoke generator M7 ---------...---1 -----Trailer, director, 2t, 4w, M13, M14, & M22 -------........1
Trailer, bomb, 2¼t, 3w, M5...........1230

Table I. Individual Drape Nets-Continued
Size individual drape nets
Type of vehicle or equipment

22 ft. x

29 ft. x

36 ft. x

45 ft. x

22 ft.

29 ft.

44 ft.

45 ft.

No. required per vehicle or equipment
Trailer, clamshell, 3t, 2w, M 16 -----------------------------1 Trailer, ammunition, 4t, 2w, M21_-------------i.....
1
Trailer, 6t, cargo tracked (model BT 898-4) ------..
--------1
Trailer, 7t, 4w, antenna mount ---------------1------------I
Trailer, tractor, crane, M6, 7t -------------------i.....
1
Trailer, 7t, 4w, pole type, flatbed, 8 cu. yd. trk
crane attach --------------------------------1
Trailer ST, 4w, M23 ammunition ----------------------......
1
Trailer, 8-, 16-, 20-, and 60-ton, full low bed (whenempty)--........................-.......................
1
Trailer, 22t, 6w, low bed ------------------I
1---------Trailer, 45t, 12w, transporter, Mg -----------------------.
.1
Trailer, chemical handling, M1 -----------------------------.
1
Trailer, dump, motorized, cable operated & pneumatic, 112 cu. yd. and 13 cu. yd.............-------------1
Trailer, fuel servicing 2w, 600-gal ---------------------------1
Trailer, tilting type, searchlight 60 in. 4w, MI ___------------- .
..
1
Trailer, van dir, station M259 -------------------------......
2
Trailer, van, fire control, 2t, 4w, M244 -----------..........2
Trailer, van launching control, M262 ------------------......
2
Trailer, van, radar tracking control M258 ---------.- ---------2
Trailer, low bed, wrecker, 12t, 4w M269 and M270 --....----...
2
Trailer, low bed, 25t, 4w, M172 ------------------------......
2
Trailer, cargo 20t, tracked (ATHEY).......................2
Trailer, 5, 7, and 12t, 2w, van -...................................
1
Trailer, 14t, 4w antenna mount ------------------........... --1
Trailer, 20t, cargo, tracked, (model ET 1076-1) -.......................
1
Trailer, flat bed guided missile M261 -...............................
1
Trailer, dropbed antenna mount M260 ----------------------------1
Trailer, transporter 45t, 12w, M9...................................
1
Truck %t, 4 x 2 to truck It, 4 x 4-.....................
1
Truck, ambulance ½2t, %t, 4 x 4, M43 and (lb) ---------------1
Truck, it, 4 x 2 to 2/2t, 4 x22 -------------- ------------......
1-Truck, it, 4 x 4 to 1' 2t, 4 x 4 --------------------............
1
Truck, tractor, 21 2 t, 6 x 4 -----------------------------......
1
Truck, prime mover, 2t, 6 x 4, M20 (Diamond T
models 980 and 981) ------------------------------------.
1
Truck, personnel, cargo l/ 2 t, 6 x 6 to truck, dump,
flat bed 4t, 6 x 6 ----------------------------------...
1
Truck, tractor 4 to 5t, 4 x 4 ---------------------------......
1
Truck, dump, tractor, M425 and M426 5 ton 4 x 2 --....------1
Truck, ponton tractor 5 to 6t, 4 x 4, COE____---------------1
Truck, dump, chassis, tractor, 5t, 6 x 6 .-----1
Truck, gasoline tank, 6t, 6 x 6, 2000 gal --------------------1
Truck, tractor, 6t, 6 x 6................--..................
1231

Table I. Individual Drape Nets-Continued
Size individual drape nets
Type of vehicle or equipment

22 ft. x
22 ft.

29 ft. x
29 ft.

36 ft. x
44 ft.

45 ft. x
45 ft.

No. required per vehicle or equipment

Truck, fire powered brush, class 30, 4 x 2 and 4 x 4 -----------Truck, fire, powered, pumper, class 325, 4 x 2, 4 x 4,
class 500, 4 x 2 class 525, 4 x 2 and 4 x 4, class
530, 6 x 6 class 750 4 x 2 -.................
Truck, tractor, 20t, 6 x 4 diesel -..............
Truck, gasoline tank 2%ht, 6 x 4, 1,250-gal -..................
Truck, amphibian, shop van 2%ht, 6 x 6 -.
...-Truck, cargo, ponton & wrecker, AT, 6 x 6Truck, chassis, 5t, 6 x 6, M139 -................
Truck, crane, chassis, cargo, heavy wrecker prime
mover, 6t, 6 x 6 -..........................
Truck, prime mover 7¼t, 6 x 6-.............
Truck, tractor, 12t, 6 x 6, M26 and M26A1Truck, cargo, 2%/t, 6 x 4 -------------------------------------Truck, surgical & van type body 22t, 6 x 6 -.................
Truck, cargo & dump 2/t, 6 x 6.........--.
Truck, 5t, 4 x 2 ------------------------------------Truck, dump body 10 cu. yd. 4 x 2 (2DT)..........--....
Truck, ponton tractor, 5 to 6t, 4 x 4 -........................
Truck, prime mover 12t, 6 x 4, M20...........--.
Truck, 4t to 12t, 6 x 6 -------------------------------------.
Vehicle, armored, full track, T18E1; utility, M39;
and tank recovery, medium M74 -..........
Vehicle, tank recovery M-32 series and heavy M51Wagon, dirt or rock, crawler mtd 11 cu. yd -.......
Water, purification equip. set No. 3 portable 35
gpm

I1

1
1
2
22
2
2
22
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
12
1
1

Section II. CAMOUFLAGE NET SETS, FIELD AND ANTIAIRCRAFT
ARTILLERY, DRAPE
3. General
These camouflage net sets, drape, are designed with quick-opening
embrasures to satisfy the firing requirements of all artillery weapons.
Each net set is so designed that the embrasures can be partiallyopened and the set remain standing (fig. 222); or the embrasurecan be fully opened and the net set dropped (fig. 223). The former
method is used for normal field artillery during firing and the latter
is used for 3600 antiaircraft artillery firing. These net sets can beeasily adapted to conceal either field or antiaircraft artillery. In
order to facilitate the erection of these net sets, personnel should become familiar with the parts of the net sets that effect erection. These232

parts are illustrated in figures 224, 225, and. 226. The component
parts of the net sets covered in this section are interchangeable between the net sets with the exception of nets which vary in size andstructure. However, these nets are interchangeable within the net
set. (For information on component parts, see table II.) The net
sets covered in this section can be erected by 1 leader and 8 men inapproximately 18 minutes during daylight hours. During the hoursof darkness an additional 15 minutes is required.
Table II.

Consolidated Component Parts List of Camouflage Net Sets, Drape
Camouflage net sets; field andantiaircraft, artillery, drape;
Nomenclature descriptions

72 ft. w
88 ft.t. g

58 ft. w
58ft.t. g

44 ft. w 34 ft. w
44 ft. Ig 35 ft. Ig

No. of each required

32
Box, pole carrying, 4 ft. 4 in. x 7h/2 in. x 6 in. deep__
Net, camouflage, cotton twine, commercial No. 18
b44
to 24, with hardware and fabric garnishment*__60
Support, camouflage-net, steel pole 4 ft. 3 in-90
40
Pin, tent, wood, olive drag, 24 in-100
84
Net release cable, wire rope, }'-in. dia, w/pins
Rope, camouflage net, cotton-braided, guy, 54-in.
...................
6
4
dia x 55 ft. long -.
22Maul, wood, with 36-in. handle, 6- x 8-in. head-Strap, artillery mounting, cotton web, for camouflage sets:
10
6
2 in. x 108 in -......................
2 in. x 72 in-..
.
......................
2
2
20
40
Cap, camouflage net, supporting, round, 20 in. dia_
3Bag, camouflage net, canvas carrying-5

1

1

4
30
40
2

d 2

2
2

2
2

6
2
15
3

4
2
15
2

30
40
2

Interchangeable within net set only.
*36 ft. x 44 ft. (size of each net).
b 29 ft. x 29 ft. (size of each net).
c 22 ft. x 22 ft. (size of each net).
d 17 ft x 35 ft. (size of each net).

4. Camouflage Net Set, Field Artillery, Drape (72 Feet Wide x
88 Feet Long)a. General. This camouflage net set consists of 4 pregarnished
36 x 44-foot cotton twine nets placed together to form a rectangle
72 x 88-feet long. The total area of the set is 6,336 square feet. The
area of effective concealment is somewhat less due to the garnishingthin-out area and the height of the net. The nets are held rigidly
in place by 30 guyropes attached at intervals to the outer edge andanchored to wooden stakes. Tent slips on the guyropes make it possible to adjust tension on the net set. The net set -weighs 1,065
233

a~~~~~~~~I

,S

__

.i

~~~2a

t~~~~~~~~X
234~~~~~~~~~~4,Wpounds and has a cubage of 60 cubic feet. It is packaged and carriedin 5 canvas bags and 3 carrying boxes. Component parts for the net
set are listed in table II. The following equipment can be concealedby this net set:
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)

Gun 120-mm AA.
Gun 90-mm AA.
SCR 584.
Radar tracking station for Corporal.
Antiaircraft fire control system M-33 series (less augmentation antenna assembly).

Figure 223.

Embrasure fully opened for firing.

b. Methods of Erection. The net set can be erected with or without equipment in place. In the latter method the net set can bepropped up and the equipment emplaced upon completion of erection.
An erection crew of 1 leader and 8 men should be selected. Steps in
the erection of the set are as follows:(1) Rolled nets should be placed in proper location, with poles
and caps close to weapon (fig. 227).
(2) Nets should now be opened so that inside corners are close
to center of weapon and embrasure edges are facing eachother (fig. 228x).
(3) To place the nets in proper position one of the front nets
is pulled over the weapon tube by using the inner guyropes
as illustrated in figure 229.
235

w~~ !.

I_

v

_

_

:,

z~~~~~·a:z

W~~~~~~~rz-tk Zll i X X $~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

o

r r

To

Z~~~~~~~~

z

1

w

1 s z

w

cr

~S
II

236

~~~~~~~~~~m
z
w

236

z

cu

z

w

FASTENER

PI N

CABLE

BLUE PLASTIC TAPESPRING SNAP

Figure 225. Net release cable.

WIRE CAP

3 LONG PRONGSSPRING LOCKSSUPPORT POLE SECTIONS

Figure 226.

Support and cap assembly details.
237

1
2
3
Figure 227.

Placement of nets and components to facilitate erection.

Figure 228.

Figure 229.

238

Nets
Caps
Support poles

Nets opened.

Using inner guyropes to pull net over weapon tube.

Figure 230.

Connecting embrasure edges.

(4) The next step is to pull the embrasure edges together (fig.
230) and at the same time the color code markers should bematched. The color code markers are red and blue and arelocated along the embrasure edges. Their purpose is to aid
in matching up the nets to facilitate the connecting of thenets together to form the embrasure. The red color code
markers indicate the net release cable length along theembrasure. The blue color code markers indicate the midpoint of the net release cable along the embrasure edge. The
midpoint of the net release cable is also color coded blue
(fig. 225). The nets are now pinned together by inserting
the first pin of the net release cable through the first ring ofadjoining embrasure edges (fig. 231). This action forms thequick-opening embrasure. To speed up closing the embrasure
FASTNER LOOP IN PIN RING LOOPS

CABLE

CABLE

Figure 231.

Details of embrasure connections.

239

match up the blue color marker on net 'release cable withthe blue color code marker on the embrasure edges. The
net release pin nearest the blue color code marker should be
inserted into the adjoining rings closest to the blue color
code marker along the embrasure edge. The, remaining pins
are inserted in a like manner and this operation is continued
until the embrasure is completely closed. For artillery
weapons the pins should be pointed away from center ofnet set. For antiaircraft weapons the pins should be pointed
toward the center of the net set.
(5) The 2 rear nets are connected to one another using the procedures described in the previous step. In a like manner thefront nets are connected to the rear nets (fig. 232). Guyropes should now be extended to 3/4 length and a stake placed,by each guyrope (fig. 232).

lopFigure232.

(6)Connecting rear nets and front nets.

The four corner guyropes should be pulled taut, stakes
driven, and guyropes looped over stakes and adjusted (fig.
233). At the same time the front and rear embrasures
should be centered over the highest point of the weapon (fig.
233). Stakes should now be driven for the other guyropes.
(7) Supports should now be assembled to required length andcaps inserted in the upper section (fig. 226).
(See (9)below, for length requirements). Supports should be locatedat various positions under the nets to support the net uniformly and at the same time to disrupt the shape of the net
and eliminate any straight line effect. The supports mustbe leaned away from the weapon to aid in dropping thenets when embrasure. is opened (fig. 234).
240

Figure 233.

Corner guyrope detail and centering Let set over highest point of
wceapon.

(8) To minimize the billowing of the net set during high winds
and to keep the net set erect when one embrasure is opened,
inner guyropes are attached to the front and rear nets. Thisis accomplished by snapping inner guyropes to reinforcement tape on the front and rear nets at the side embrasure(fig. 235). Stakes to anchor the inner guyropes are now
located and driven toward each corner of the net set as
illustrated in figure 235. Inner guyrope is now looped overstakes and adjusted.
(9) Supports should now be placed so that net is a minimum of
3 feet above the highest point of the weapon. For antiaircraft weapons, supports should be located outside of emplacement pit (fig. 236). Net set should be adjusted so thatit presents an irregular shape and a low silhouette (fig. 237).

Figure 234.

SapportA leancd away from;iCapon.

241

c. Preparationof Positionfor Firing.
(1) To drop nets for firing antiaircraft artillery, the ends of thetwo net release cables, which are located at the outside edgesof each embrasure, are pulled simultaneously (figs. 223 and238). To reerect the net set all guyropes are unhooked andthe erection procedures outlined in b above, are repeated.
(2) To open an embrasure for field artillery firing, the net embrasure release cable suspended at the center of the net set'ANN

INNER GUYROPE

Figure 235.

Figure 236.

Inner guyrope details.

Supports outside emplacement pit for antiaircraft weapons.

is pulled. This action opens the forward embrasure and theremainder of the net set remains erect (fig. 222). To close
this embrasure follow the procedures outlined in b(3) and(4) above.
5. Camouflage Net Set, Field Artillery, Drape (58 Feet Wide x
59 Feet Long)a. General. This net set is identical in design to the net set coveredin paragraph 4, except that it is smaller. This net set is equipped
242

1

.5

% :~~~~~Wtr·~~~~.3.1

h· ~~~·· 4~~~~~~

""

!^

oWJ

j

X

I

,,~~~~~~At
4lD .L'

;;

i;

O

r24

RELEASE
Figure 238.

CABLE

Location of the ened of two net release cables.

with 4 garnished 29- by 29-foot cotton twine nets placed together togive an overall dimension of 58 feet by 58 feet, with a total area of
3,364 feet. The net set weighs 648 pounds and occupies 34 cubic feet.
It is packaged and carried in 3 canvas bags and 2 carrying boxes.
Component parts of this net set are listed in table II. The following
equipment can be concealed by this net set:(1) Gun, 75-mm, AA, T-69 series.
(2) Howitzer, 155-mm, towed.
(3) Howitzer, 105-mm, towed.
(4) SCR 784.
b. Methods of Erection. The procedures outlined in paragraph
4b and c should be followed.
e. Preparationof Position for Firing and Reerection of the Net
Set.
(1) The procedures outlined in paragraph 4c(1) and (2) should
be followed.
(2) To open an embrasure for field artillery firing, the releasecable suspended at the center of the net set is pulled. Thisaction opens the forward embrasure and the remainder ofthe net set remains erect. To close this embrasure the procedures outlined in paragraph 4b(3) and (4) should be
followed.
6. Camouflage Net Set Antiaircraft Gun, Drape, (44 Feet Wide x
44 Feet Long)a. General. This net set is similar in design to the 2 net sets
covered in paragraphs 4 and 5. The nets are smaller in size andonly 1 quick-opening embrasure extends from front to rear. The
front nets are connected to the rear nets by lacing loops. The net
set consists of 4 garnished 22- by 22-foot cotton twine nets placed
together to give an overall dimension of 44 feet by 44 feet or 1,936
244

square feet. The area of effective concealment is somewhat less dueto the garnishing thin-out area and the height of the ere;cted net
set. The net set weighs 367.5 pounds and occupies 21.5 cubic feet.
It is packaged and carried in 3 canvas bags and 2 carrying boxes.
The component parts of; this net set are listed in table II. The following equipment can be concealed by this net set:(1) Gun, 40-mm, M-2 series.
(2) Carriage, motor, twin, 40-mm gun, M14A1.
(3) Carriage motor combination, M-15 series.
(4) Carriage motor multiple, MGM-16 series 308-1-26.
b. Erection. This net set should be erected after the weapon isin place. The erection procedures outlined in paragraph 4b(1) and(2) should be followed initially. Then the front nets should be connected to the rear nets by lacing the loops. Completion of this operation forms a single net on each side of the weapon. Lacing thefront nets to the rear nets is accomplished with 9-inch loops of 1/sinch cotton sash cord attached at intervals of 4 meshes on the rearedge of the front nets. Lacing is begun by extending the end loopof the front net diagonally across and through a mesh in the rear
net, leaving the end of the loop hanging free. The next loop is inserted through the loose end of the previous loop and then diagonallyacross to the rear net and back again to the front net, once again
allowing the loop end to hang free. This process is repeated acrossthe width of the net and the end of the last loop is tied securely tothe outer edge of the net. Then the procedures outlined in paragraph 4b(3) through (9) should be followed for completion oferection.
c. Preparationof Position for Firing and Reerection of Net Sets.
The procedures outlined in paragraph 4c(1) and (2) should be
followed.
7. Camouflage Net Set, Antiaircraft Machinegun, Drape (34Feet Wide x 35 Feet Long)a. General. This net set is similar in design to the other net sets
discussed in this section except that it consists of only 2 garnished17-x 35-foot cotton twine nets placed together to give an overall
dimension of 34 x 35 feet, having a total area of 1,190 square feet.
The area of effective concealment is somewhat less due to the garnishing thin-out area and the height of the net set. This net set
weighs 306 pounds and occupies 15 cubic feet. It is packaged andcarried in 2 canvas bags and 1 carrying box. The component parts
for this set are listed in table II. The following equipment can beconcealed by this net set:(1) Mount, trailer, multiple, caliber .50 machinegun, M-55.
(2) Acquisition antenna assembly of AA FCS, M-33 series.
245

b. Erection of Net Set. This net set is erected after the equipment is in place. The erection procedures outlined in paragraph 4
are followed except the step in paragraph 4b(5) is eliminated.
c. Preparationof Position for Firing and Reerection of the Net
Set. The procedures outlined in paragraph 4c(1) and (2) should
be followed.

246

INDEX
Paragraphs

Pages------------------------------------75c
Paths---74c (2), 85
Routes .-.- To Runways ----------------------------------- 99a (2), 102
Aerial:83d
Inspection ---------------------------- - - 6
Observation --- - - - - - - 68
Agricultural terrain -------------------------------Aircraft:
101
Camouflage .---------------------110
Checklist for camouflage ------------------106b
Covers ----------------------------------106, 114--Insignia ---------99a (1), 102-----------Parking Sites -----111
Pattern Painting -...--Shine.---------------------------- 106..-- 80b, 83b
Ammunition concealment .----------------------8aAngles of view ---12d, 17, 27
Artificial materials --82
Artillery -----------------------------46
Bacteria in soils ---------------------------------35c, 70, 78c........................-......
Barren terrain

113
111, 139
168, 189

Access:72................................-Bivouacs96
Blast area -...
Blending:
12d, 17
Artificial materials -............................
le (2).
Camouflage -..................
21, 50With background -........................
With terrain -------------------------------86
28, 45b
Bow-ties -..............................
116b
Buggy-top ----------------------------99b (2), 99e, f
Building tonedown -............................
Camouflage:
Ile (2)Blending -....................................
48
Clothing -.............................
lie (3)
Color characteristics ----------------------------12c, 57
Construction 58
Covers -................................
.-...........
3
Definition
12b
Discipline
45
Helmet -------------------------------:3
Importance of ------------------------------------83d
Inspection -..........................
13
Methods -....................................
5..-..---..
Responsibility

138
6
102

187
197
194
192, 202
168, 189
197
192
131, 137
10
27,35,45137
68
54, 104,
123
110
162
...........................-27, 35
19
39, 73140
47, 66
204
176, 179
1970
20
27, 8:3
93
3
24
64
3
138
28
5

247

Canvas equipment --------------------------Charcoal -----------------------------

Paragraphs
47
46, 47, 78

Checklist of aircraft camouflage ---------------------110
Clothing ------------------------------48
Color --------------------------------lieCommand posts ------------------------------79
Component parts of net sets, drape_-- -_ _ App.
...--- II
Composition of drape net sets -----------------------31
Concealment -----------12
Ammunition...........-- -_80b, 83b
Blast areas ------------------------------96
Combat -----------------------------19
Desert --------------------------------------16, 70
During movement -------------------------______ 53, 62, 94
Individual -------------------------------42
Jungle -------------------------------18
Practices snow ---------------------------------23
Supplies ----------------------------82aTracks -------------------------_--12b, 61, 71b, 75d
Vehicles ---------------------------60
Weapons individual -------------------------59
Wooded areas --------------------------------- 67
Construction, camouflage ----------------------- 12c, 57
Controlled mowing -................
25b (1), 99b
Corps of Engineers responsibility --------------------5c
Cover, emplacement -----------------------57b
Cover, foxhole ----------------------------57a
Covers, aircraft ------------------------------------106b
Cut vegetation -----------------------------25c
Debris --------------------------------------------25d
Deceiving ----------------------------13c
Deception ---------------------------------------3b, 4d
Decoys-----------------------------------13c, 22
Desert areas --- ------.......----------------16, 56c,
70, 78c,88d,
102d,
35, 94,109
Differences in tone ----------------------------------lle(2)Direct observatiofin.------------------------6a, 7
Discipline:
Camouflage ---------------------------12b, 79c
Night -.................................
12b (2)
Water points -------------------------------81d
Dispersion:
Aircraft_- .-. __......................__
104
As a means of camouflage -------------------------4a
Factors -4-------------------------------4
Tents_--------------------------------75b
Troopsl-------------------------------4c
Vehicles ------------------------------------63

248

Pages
70
68, 70,
119
197
70
19
123
227
49
24
131, 137
162
36
32, 10475, 96,
157
59
36
39
137
24, 96,
104, 116
96
94
101
27, 8342, 171
5
89
89
194
44
45
28
4, 5
28, 3932, 82,
104, 123,
148, 190,
51, 157,
195
19
6, 8
24, 125
26
136
191
4
4
113
4
96

Paragraphs

Pages

Disruption of form ---___ _-_-___- __- __ __39
55
Disruptive pattern:
Aircraft --------------------------11 lc
198
Artillery ---------------------------------------92
151
Vehicles --------------------------------41d57
Drape net sets ---------------------------------------30
48
Drape net sets, composition ---------------------------31
49
Drape nets ------------------------------------------29
48
Earths:Earth-- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 25e (1)45
G ravel ------ --- --- --- -- --- --- -- --- --- -25e (3)45Sand ----------------------------------25e (2)45Embrasures --...
31..------------------49
Emplacments ------------------------------------55
79
Covers -------------------------------57
83
Erection of Camouflage net sets, drape -----------------App. II
227
Expedients ----------------------------116
204
Factors:
Concealment --------------------------16
32
Dispersion ----------------------------4b4
Geographic areas --------------------------------14
32
Recognition --------------------------11
14
Field service installations -----------------------__
80, 81
131, 133
Films types of -----------------------------------911Black and white --............
............-......
9a
11
Color ---------------------------------9b
11Camouflage detection ----------------------------9d
13
Infrared -----------------------------9c
12Narrow-band --------------------------9d
13
Flattop net for machine gun --------------------------116a
204
Flattop net sliding cover AA gun ----------------------116i
210
Flattop nets ------------------------------------------32
50
Height of -----------------------------------33
51
Maintenance of ---------------------------------34
51
Materials for ---------------------------------27d, 27b, 32 46, 45, 50
Procedures for erection ---------------------------116
204
Form, disrupting ofGeneral --.
...
.
.
.........---------------------39
55
Helmets ----------------------------------------45a66
Garnishing
Artificial material -----------------------------27c
46
Bow-tie ----------- -----------------------------28, 45b
47, 66
Color blends -------------------------------28
47
Natural material ----------------_-----24, 25
42
Patterns -----------------------------28
47
Guided missiles -----------------------------93
157
Blast area ---------------------------------------96
162
Painting -----------------------------97
163
Siting --------------------------------95
158
Grasses -------------------------------25b42
Gravel --------------------------------25e (3)45Grease --------------------------------48
70
Ground observation:
Direct -------------------------------6a6General----------------------------------66249

Helicopters ------------------------------------

Paragraphs

Pages

101

187

Helmet, camouflage -----------------------------Hiding -----------------High oblique ----------Igloo ----------------Indirect observation ----------Individual -------------------------Blending ------------------------------Camouflage in jungle areas -----------------------Camouflage in snow areas -----------------------Snow suits_.----------------------

64
45
13a
28
8a (2)
S-------------------10
116e
207
6b
7
42
59
50
73
44b
61
44c
62
49
72

Concealment ---------------------------Insignia army aircraft ------------------------------Landing site --.----------------------Lampblack ---------------------------------Live vegetation use of --------------------------------Logistical data nets and net sets, drape -----------------Machinegun, flattop --------------------------------Maintenance:
Artificial materials -----------------------------Natural materials -----------------------------Nets, drape -------------------------------------- I-----Nets, flattop ------------------------------Markings of aircraft --..........--Methods, basic --------------------.---Mountain areas ---------------------------------

42
106
98
46
25a
App. II
116a

59
192
164
68
42
227
204

37
25c
App. II
32e
114
12
20a

55
44
227
51
202
24
38

-

1 if
25b (1), 99b
46, 5920
42, 171
68, 94-12c
50, 5327
73, 75

59
64

94
96

Movement ---------------------------Mowing, controlled ---------------------Mud -----------.-.----------.

Natural materials:
Maximum use-Use in camouflaging individual ---------------

Use in camouflaging weapons ---------------------Use in camouflaging vehicles ----------------------Nets:---------Drape (individual) ----------------Drape (net sets) ----.----...--..---.

............

29, 11748, 21430, App. II

48, 227

32
App. II
52
2b

50
227
74
3

6
43
6a, b
91

6
60
6
151

111
92
39

197
151
55

-------------------------Flattops ---------Net release cable ----------------------Night action -----.Nuclear -------Observation:
Aerial ------------------------------------Enemy -----------------------------------------Ground ----------Posts--------------------------Painting:
Aircraft -- -- - - -- - - - -- - - -- - - Artillery field ---------------------------------Disruptive ----------------------------Helicopters ---------------------------H elm et ------ ------- ----------Missile ---------------Vehicles ----------------

250

----

111
197
45a
66
97
163
39, 41d, 78b (2) 55, 57, 121--

Paragraphs

Pages

168, 189
99a (1), 102
Parking sites for aircraft --------------------------Pattern painting:
197
111
Aircraft ------- - - - - - - - - - - - 151
92
Artillery -------------------------45a66-------Helmets ---93
58
Individual weapon --------------------------------55, 57, 121_.----.---- 39, 41d, 78b (2).-----Vehicles
Patterns:
47
28
Garnishing ----------------------------15
32
Terrain ------------------------------108b
S-Photointerpreter ------Planning:
168, 183
99, 100--------------Airfield camouflage -----110
74
Bivouacs -------------------96, 111,
61, 74c (2), 75d, 85- - ----- .
Track---------116, 139
51
34
Protective area of a flattop -----------------------Responsibility:
55-Camouflage Roads:
75, 13953, 85
Access --------------------------------96, 168,62, 99a (2):Concealed ------.....
171, 189
99b (1), 102
171, 189-------------Taxiways ------ 45
25e (2)- --- - Sand -------.- - - - - - 51, 96
35, 62---------------.
----------------Screens --------32
15
Seasonal changes -----------------------------15, 73,
lic, 50, 65, 99d, e--........Shadow .---101, 178
107
194
Shadow nets ---------------------------------65
101----Shadows, vehicle -----20
llg
Shine --------------------Siting:
102
189
Aircraft ------------------------------83
137
Artillery battery -------------------.-----------101
66
Equipment --------------------------------56
80
Field fortifications -------------------------------158
95
Guided Missile battery ---------------------------56, 73
40, 50, 51
Silhouettes ---------------------------68
44a, 46
Skin tonedown -.-----------------------207116d--------------------------------Sliding cover ---54
36
Smoke -----------------------------------------------

Snow:
Areas --------------------_____-

21
23
44c
49

38, 82,
104, 120,
145, 148,
189
39
39
62
72

12b (3)12b (3)30b, 57a26
26
49, 8920, 56e, 71, 78b, 87f, 88d, 102b

Blending with --------------------.-.
.--.----Concealment practices
Indiviaual camouflage ----------------.------------.
-----Suits ------Sound:--- ----.
---------------------Control Ranging ------------------------------Spoil ----------------------------------

251

Paragraphs

Pages

Staff responsibilities for camouflage --------------------5b
Swinging flattop --------------------------------116c
Terrain:Agricultural-..--------------68, 78a, 87b, 88b, 102c

5
205

Desert ----------------------------

16, 56c, 70, 78c, 88d, 102d

Snow ---------------------

20, 4 4c, 56e, 71, 78b, 87f, 88d, 102b

Urban -- ----

----

----

----

Wooded -------------------

----

----

---....

69, 87c, 88c
57b, 67, 88a, 102a

Texture -li-- -- - - - -- - - - -- - - - -- - - 11d
Texturing -li--------------------------11d, 99b (2)Tone, differences --------------------------lie (2)Toning down:
Earth scars ---------------------------------93, 96
Grass - .--- --- --- -- --- --- -- --- --- -- 25b (2), 99b (2)Skin ----------------------------------46
Weapons individual ----------------------------59
Tracks ---------------------------------12b, 61, 71b, 75d
Training camouflage -----------------------------98b
Truck park ----------------------------------79c
Twine nets ----------------------------------------27d (2)Urban terrain -------------------------------69, 87c, 88c
Vehicles camouflage in general ..-..
60
By dispersion ----------------------------63
During movement ------------------------------62
In snow areas ---------------------------------71
Vegetation:
Vines, use----------------------------------116a
Visual deception -------------10, 13c
Weapons tonedown ----------------------------59
Wooded terrain ------------------------------57b, 67, 88a, 102a
[AG 300.7(22 Oct'58)]

2.52

102, 119,140, 147,
189
32, 82,
104, 123,
148, 190
38, 62,82, 104,
120, 145,
148, 189
102, 143,
148
89, 102,
147, 18915
15, 17619
157, 162
43, 17668
94
24, 96,
104, 116164125
46102, 143,148.
..............
96
96
96
104
204
14, 2894
89, 102,
147, 189

By Order of Wilber M. Brulcker, Secretary of the Army:
MAXWELL D. TAYLOR,
General, United States Army.
Chief of Staff.

Official:
R. V. LEE,
Milajor General, United States Akriy,
The Adjutant General.
Distribution:
Active Army:
DCSLOG (2)Technical Stf, DA (2)USCONARC (10)ITSA Arty Bd (2)IUSA Armor Bd (2)USA Inf EBd (2)IJSA Air Def Bd (2)IISA Abn &Elct Bd (2)ITUSA Avn Bd (2)ITS ARADCOM (2)ITS ARADCOM, Rgn (2)O)S Maj Cormd (10)()S Base Conid (2)Log Conld (2)MDAV (2)
Armies (10)Corps (5)D)iv (10)Bn (1) except TOE's:
5-15 (5), 5--35 (2), 5-55, 5-215,
5-225, 5-315 (5), 5-355 (3),5-525 (5)CO (1) except TOE's:
1-7, 1-17, 1-57, 1-67, 1-107, 1117, 1-127, 1-137, 75-16 (5), 5-

17 (2), 5-36 (5), 5-37 (2), 556 (5), 5-67 (2), 5-96 (10),"-97 (5), 5-192 (3), 5-217, 5218 (2), 65-226 (3), .5-227, 5i262, 5-266 (2), 5-301, 5-312(5), 5-316 (3), 75-317, 5-346,
5-356, r-359, 5-367 (2), 5-526(5), 5-527, 6-100, 6-200, 7-52,
11-54, 17-2, 17-51 (2), 55-57,
575-58, 57-5 (5)ITSMA (10)
Svc Colleges (2)Br Svc Sch (2) except USAES(462)
Trans Terminal Comrd (2)D)iv Engr (1)Engr Dist (1)Mil Dist (1)Sector Comllds (Res) (1)ITSA Corps (Res) (1)Units organized under following
TOE's:
20-300 (1)29-500 (HA, EB, EC, ED, EE,
EF, EG) (1)

NG: State AG (3): units--same as Active Army except allowance is one
copy to ea(ch unit.
USAR: None.
For explanation of abbreviations used, see AR 320-50.

253'

U. S. GOVERNMENTPRINTING OFFICE 1959

0-490298