Although deep water operations remain important, it is critical that Sailors and Marines learn how to operate in this rather unique environment. In the littoral, there are a number of weather and oceanographic factors which can affect our ability to fight. Here, we present only a few of the more prominent. It will cover constricted channels and bays regardless of depth and ridges of 1 to 3 meters may occue with maximum thickness of 2 to 3 meters. Ice will modify the salinity of water.
Ice can become an extreme navigational hazard.
Coastal ports are often inaccessible without icebreaker support. Ice may also be a formidable obstacle to amphibious craft, swimmers and torpedo. It impairs submarine operations due to decreased depths. They represent a danger to airborne operations and can degrade communications and mobility. This reduced visibility can hamper coastal surface operations and cause potential dust-related aircraft engine problems at sea.