Which FM serves as the reference for Airborne and Air Assault Operations?

FM 3-99 is the official Field Manual that serves as the reference for Airborne and Air Assault Operations. It provides comprehensive guidance on the planning, preparation, and execution of airborne and air assault missions. This manual is essential for understanding the roles, responsibilities, and tactics associated with both forms of air operations, making it a crucial resource for military personnel involved in these specific types of operations.

The contents of FM 3-99 cover a wide range of topics, including the capabilities and limitations of airborne forces, the employment of these forces in various operational environments, and the integration of aviation assets in support of ground operations. It serves as a foundational document for soldiers planning or executing missions that involve airborne or air assault tactics, offering standardized procedures and best practices.

In contrast, the other Field Manuals listed may focus on different aspects of military operations, such as training infantry (FM 3-21.38), special operations (FM 3-05), or other operational concepts (FM 3-100). While they may be valuable resources in their own right, they do not specifically address the Airborne and Air Assault Operations as FM 3-99 does.