Class IV resupply is a critical mission for utility helicopters, particularly during a defensive operation. Ground forces preparing for a defense will use a tremendous amount of class IV, particularly wire. Utility helicopters are invaluable in moving these supplies forward from the DSA and BSA to task force class IV points, where it will be used for battlefield preparations. As in all air movement operations, resupply of class IV by air allows for rapid preparation of defensive sectors. In high tempo combat operations we can expect to expend large amounts of ammunition.
Utility helicopters play a vital role in keeping the force resupplied with ammunition.
High usage items will be moved forward to temporary ATPs. Air movement from ASP to ATP is normally done externally. Using UH aircraft allows for 24-hour operations, keeping the force supplied with ammunition. Emergency class V resupply is normally done from the ATP forward to a unit in contact or who has recently broken contact. This operation is critical for the utility unit in that rapid resupply is necessary for the ground forces to continue the attack.