TM 5-1080-200-13&P
CHAPTER 2
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Section I. OPERATION UNDER USUAL CONDITIONS
2-1. GENERAL
For effective concealment of a vehicle, a minimum space of 2 feet must be main-
tained between the screen and the top of the vehicle. The support system must
be used at all times. Under no circumstances should the screens be draped over
a vehicle. Draping the screen will show the outline of the vehicle underneath and
will allow immediate recognition of the vehicle by enemy forces, thus defeating the
purpose of camouflage. The shape of the screens should be disrupted as much
as possible by placing the support assemblies underneath the screens at various
positions and heights.
During assembly and disassembly of the support pole sections, keep both ends
of the poles free from dirt, mud and foreign matter. Wipe both ends clean before
assembly. Care should be taken to prevent damage to the pole ends which could
cause an improper fit. Inspect the pole ends for burrs or damage before assembly.
When conditions require that the screens be erected in muddy areas, provide firm
footing for the support poles by placing them on top of any useable material avail-
able (a flat rock, boards, brush, etc.). When such material is not available, it may
be necessary to add another four foot pole section in order to reach firm footing
and then reposition the pole assembly as required.
WARNING
Use plastic poles only if there is no anticipated snow or ice accumulation
in the area, otherwise, use aluminum poles. DO NOT mix plastic with
aluminum support pole sections. DO NOT stack the support poles more
than four (4) high. Inspect the poles and the joint sections prior to installation
to ensure there are no cracks or damage. Install a replacement pole if
necessary. Submit a SF 368 if failure is observed on any pole.
CAUTION
When a multi-module configuration is used (8 ft.
high or more) the camouflage screens could be
blown down when winds exceed 20 miles per hour.
Damage to equipment would result.
After screens are erected, they should be checked on a daily basis for proper erec-
tion and retightened as required. Screens should be checked more frequently dur-
ing high winds and/or heavy snowfalls. Do not allow any great accumulation of
snow or ice on screens. Snow or ice must be removed from the screens as soon
as the screens start to sag and show signs of stress or strain due to the extra
weight.
Change 10 2-1