Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques (HRST) Operations 3-01B... · 2017. 10. 18. · CD&I (C 116) 2 May 2016 ERRATUM to MCRP 3-11.4A HELICOPTER ROPE SUSPENSION TECHNIQUES (HRST)

US Marine Corps

PCN 144 000108 00

MCRP 3-01B.1(Formerly MCRP 3-11.4A)

Helicopter Rope SuspensionTechniques (HRST) Operations

DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

CD&I (C 116)

2 May 2016

ERRATUM

to

MCRP 3-11.4A

HELICOPTER ROPE SUSPENSION

TECHNIQUES (HRST) OPERATIONS

1. Change all instances of MCRP 3-11.4A, Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques (HRST)

Operations, to MCRP 3-01B.1, Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques (HRST) Operations.

2. File this transmittal sheet in the front of this publication.

PCN 144 000108 80

DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY Headquarters United States Marine Corps

Washington, D.C. 20380-1775

13 August 2003

FOREWORD

Helicopter rope suspension techniques (HRST) provide Marines with the ability toconduct helicopter insertions and extractions where helicopter landings are impractical.Marine Corps Reference Publication (MCRP) 3-11.4A, Helicopter Rope SuspensionTechniques (HRST) Operations, establishes standards; serves as a guide for the realisticand safe training of Marines in HRST skills; and outlines the techniques, procedures, andequipment used to perform HRST. It is not intended to teach the basics of rope training orthe basics of rappelling as they apply to cliff assault.

MCRP 3-11.4A applies to all Marines involved in HRST operations. It delineatesresponsibilities among aircrews and HRST personnel regarding the installation andmaintenance of HRST equipment and the procedures required to conduct HRSToperations. To enhance interoperability, the HRST rigging procedures for helicoptersfrom other Services have been included in this publication.

This publication supersedes Fleet Marine Force Manual (FMFM) 7-40, HelicopterInsertion/Extraction, dated 11 May 1992.

Reviewed and approved this date.

BY DIRECTION OF THE COMMANDANT OF THE MARINE CORPS

EDWARD HANLON, JR.Lieutenant General, U.S. Marine Corps

Commanding GeneralMarine Corps Combat Development Command

Publication Control Number: 144 000108 00

DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Unless otherwise stated, whenever the masculine gender is used, both men and women are included.

To Our Readers

Changes: Readers of this publication are encouraged to submit suggestions and changes through the Universal Need Statement (UNS) process. The UNS submission process is delineated in Marine Corps Order 3900.15_, Marine Corps Expeditionary Force Development System, which can be obtained from the on-line Marine Corps Publications Electronic Library:

http://www.marines.mil/News/Publications/ELECTRONICLIBRARY.aspx.

The UNS recommendation should include the following information:

• Location of changePublication number and titleCurrent page numberParagraph number (if applicable)Line numberFigure or table number (if applicable)

• Nature of changeAddition/deletion of textProposed new text

Additional copies: If this publication is not an electronic only distribution, a printed copy may be obtained from Marine Corps Logistics Base, Albany, GA 31704-5001, by following the instructions in MCBul 5600, Marine Corps Doctrinal Publications Status. An electronic copy may be obtained from the United States Marine Corps Doctrine web page:

https://www.doctrine.usmc.mil.

HELICOPTER ROPE SUSPENSION TECHNIQUES (HRST) OPERATIONS

Table of Contents

Chapter 1. Introduction

Personnel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1Unit Commander . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1HRST Master . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1Safety Insert Officer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2Aircraft Commander. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3Crew Chief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Crew Coordination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4Briefings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4Communications and HRST Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5Environmental Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5Night Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5Helicopter Factors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5Equipment and Clothing Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7Accident Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8

Chapter 2. Ropes, Equipment, and Knots

Ground Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1Rope Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1Grading a Rope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1Removing a Rope From Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2Coiling a Rope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3Rope and SPIE Equipment Stowage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3Static Kernmantle Rope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4Plimoor Fast Rope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4SPIE Rope. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4SPIE Harness Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4Cargo Suspension Sling with Type IV Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6Stubai 85 Carabiner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6Omega 93 Carabiner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-710K Locking Carabiner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7G-12 Clevis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7Rescue 8 Descender . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8Fast Rope Interface Kit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8Leather Gloves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8Sling Rope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

iv ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCRP 3-11.4A

Tape. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9Goggles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9Rigid Handle Machete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9Rope Storage Bat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9Vario Sit Harness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9Jacob’s Ladder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

Aviation Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10Schlomer Frame . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10Fast Rope Gantry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10Fast Rope Anchor Bar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12A-frame Fast Rope Attachment Bar Assembly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Knots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13End of Rope Knots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13Anchor Knots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14Middle of the Rope Knot: Figure Eight Loop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15Specialty Knots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15

Chapter 3. Tower Training

Training Phases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1Safety Personnel and Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Rappel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1Fast Rope. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1Safety Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2Conduct of Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Safety Brief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2Demonstration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2Tower Rappel Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2Tower Skid Rappel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3Tower Fast Rope Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

Chapter 4. Helicopter Rappelling Operations

Familiarization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

Required Personnel and Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1Rope Deployment Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

Rigging/Hook Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2Rigging the UH-1N. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2Rigging the CH-46E . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3Rigging the CH-53D/E . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4Rigging the H-47 Helicopter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4

HRST Operations __________________________________________________________________________________________________ v

Rigging the H-60 Helicopter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4Hook Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8

Roper Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9Sequence of Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9

CH-46E and CH-53E Hell Hole Rappel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9CH-46E, CH-53D/E, and H-47 Ramp Rappel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10CH-46E, CH-53D, and H-47 Crew Door Rappel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11UH-1N and H-60 Rappel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12

Emergency Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13Helicopter Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13Unsafe Drift of Premature Lift Off. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13Lost Communications/ICS Failure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13Hung Roper. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14Fouled Rope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14

Chapter 5. Fast Rope Operations


Required Personnel and Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2Rope Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2Restrictions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

Rigging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3Rigging the UH-1N . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3Rigging the CH-46E . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4Rigging the CH-53D. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5Rigging the CH-53E . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5Rigging the H-47 Helicopter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6Rigging the H-60 Helicopter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

Roper Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8Sequence of Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9

CH-46E, CH-53D, CH-53D/E Hell Hole,and H-47 Ramp/Crew Door Fast Rope. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9

UH-1N and H-60 Fast Rope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10Emergency Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

Helicopter Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10Unsafe Drift of Premature Lift Off. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11Lost Communications/ICS Failure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11Fouled Rope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11

Chapter 6. Special Patrol Insertion and Extraction Operations


vi ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCRP 3-11.4A

Required Personnel and Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1Airspeed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1Altitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1Hell Hole . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2

Rigging/Donning Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2Rigging the UH-1N. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2Rigging the CH-46E and CH-53D/E . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4Rigging the H-60 Helicopter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4Donning Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

Roper’s Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7Hook Up and Dismounting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8Sequence of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9

CH-46E and CH-53D/E SPIE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9UH-1N and H-60 SPIE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-11

Emergency Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12Aircraft Emergency. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12Hung Roper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12Fouled Rope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12

Chapter 7. Jacob’s Ladder Operations

Familiarization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1Required Personnel and Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1Rigging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1Climber Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2Sequence of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2Emergency Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3

Aircraft Emergency. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3Hung Climber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4Fouled Ladder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4Unsafe Drift or Premature Lift Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4

Appendices

A. HRST Mission Briefs to HRST Participants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-1B. HRST Brief to Aircrew . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1C. HRST Commands. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1D. Rappel Rope Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-1E. Rappel Tower Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1F. Tower Safety Brief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-1G. Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-1H. References and Related Publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-1

CHAPTER 1INTRODUCTION

Helicopter rope suspension techniques (HRST) is ahigh-risk operation that can be conducted safely ifthe contents of this publication are adhered to andcurrent directives are followed. Noncompliancewith this publication or current directives and anyunauthorized modifications or installation of unau-thorized HRST equipment can result in injury ordeath to personnel and/or damage to equipment.

Note: This term, HRST, modifies the existingterm and is approved for inclusion in the nextedition of Marine Corps Reference Publica-tion (MCRP) 5-12C, Marine Corps Supple-ment to the Department of Defense Dictionaryof Military and Associated Terms.

Throughout this publication, the HRST master’scommands are in bold italic text. All other com-mands are in italic text.

Personnel

A safe HRST evolution is the responsibility of allparticipants, from the unit commander to the indi-vidual roper. To ensure a safe training evolutionand to provide a dynamic environment for HRSToperations, a clear understanding of the responsi-bilities of all those involved is required. Thischapter tasks and defines specific responsibilitiesassociated with HRST operations.

Unit Commander

A unit commander’s primary responsibility is toensure that all HRST is accomplished in a safemanner and in accordance with this publicationand Marine Corps Order (MCO) 3500.42, MarineCorps HRST Policy and Program Administration.Additional responsibilities include, but are notlimited to, the following:

Ensuring that HRST within the unit is con-ducted and supervised by an HRST master andsafety insert officer (SIO) who are certified andcurrent in accordance with MCO 3500.42.

Ensuring that all HRST certifications and cur-rency dates are properly recorded (i.e., in a ser-vice record book, officer qualification record,and/or training record) in accordance withMCO 3500.42.

Ensuring that all personnel conducting HRSTfrom a helicopter have successfully completedstatic tower training within the parametersestablished in MCO 3500.42.

Ensuring that all HRST equipment assigned onthe unit’s table of equipment is properly main-tained, inspected, and stowed after use.

HRST Master

The HRST master’s primary responsibility is theoverall safety of all ropers and the conduct andsafety of the HRST operation. Therefore, theHRST master must know and understand thispublication and all current HRST policies anddirectives. Once planning begins, the HRST mas-ter oversees safety and continues to monitor safe-ty throughout the entire HRST evolution. HRSTequipment serviceability and safety is also theresponsibility of the HRST master (see chap. 2).

Descent and extraction authority is the soleresponsibility of the HRST master. However, theaircraft commander may abort or cancel adescent/extraction if conditions are consideredunsafe. During special patrol insertion and extrac-tion (SPIE), the HRST master informs the air-craft commander when the ropers are connectedand ready to lift. The crew chief checks for obsta-cles and clears the aircraft commander for lift andtransition to forward flight. During fast roping

1-2 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCRP 3-11.4A

and rappelling, the HRST master is responsiblefor the precise placement of the rope on the tar-get area. If safe conditions for descent are notmet, the HRST master ceases the operation.

If the mission dictates, the HRST master mayparticipate as a roper. If participating as a roper,the HRST master is the last man out. If the HRSTmaster is not required to participate as a roper, heremains on board the helicopter.

HRST master responsibilities include—

Preflight Conducting a detailed briefing of all personnelto be inserted/extracted (see app. A for an ex-ample of a mission brief).

Conducting a face-to-face brief with the air-crew (see app. B for an example of a brief toan aircrew).

Ensuring that HRST commands (see app. C)and emergency procedures are clearly under-stood by all participants.

Ensuring proper attachment, installation, pad-ding, and inspection of all ropes and devicesassociated with the HRST.

Inspecting the floor surface of the aircraft andnotifying the aircrew if any fluid spills arefound on the helicopter’s floor.

Ensuring that a machete and a cutting block areavailable for use during emergencies.

In-flight Maintaining a line of communications with theaircrew at all times; either by an internal com-munications system (ICS) or the use of hand-and-arm signals if the ICS fails.

Responding (challenge and reply) to all voicecommands from the aircraft commander.

Complying with all aircrew instructions. Deploying the rope or directing it to bedeployed only after the helicopter has been sta-bilized in a hover and the aircraft commandercommands, “Deploy the rope.”

Ensuring the orderly movement of ropers fromtheir strapped-in position to the rope station.

Performing a final inspection of ropers as theyapproach the rope station (checking for looseequipment or missing safety gear).

Monitoring the ropers’ descent until they aresafely clear of the rope and advising the air-crew of any problems.

Monitoring the condition and security of therope and anchor points, being watchful forsigns of wear and slippage.

Ensuring that ropes maintain proper contactwith the ground and advising the aircrew whenproper contact is not maintained.

Retrieving or releasing the rope once all rop-ers are safely on the deck and clear of thedeplaning station.

Cutting the rope only in case of an emergencyand only after the aircraft commander com-mands, “Cut rope.”

Post flight Derigging all HRST equipment and paddingfrom the helicopter.

Conducting a post flight debrief with all HRSTparticipants.

Inspecting all HRST equipment for wear andstowing all equipment properly (see chap. 2).

Making appropriate log book rope usage entries.

Safety Insert Officer

The SIO will be a current HRST master since hehas overall responsibility for the HRST, whichincludes ensuring the safety of overseeing andsupervising all phases of the HRST. Therefore,the SIO must know and understand this publica-tion and all current HRST policies and directives.

The SIO will be present for every phase of train-ing. Whenever possible, the SIO is located in thedrop zone and uses radio communications tomonitor the safety of the operation. If the SIOcannot be in the drop zone, he will be in the heli-copter and the first roper on the deck.

The SIO’s supervisory responsibilities include,but are not limited to, the following:

HRST Operations ________________________________________________________________________________________________ 1-3

Ensuring that all HRST master’s briefs areconducted.

Ensuring that the aircraft commander briefsconduct of the flight and emergency procedures.

Completing pre-operation/post operation inspec-tions of helicopter rigging and equipment.

Ensuring that the aircrew has all required avia-tion equipment and that the equipment is usedproperly by HRST personnel (e.g., ICS headsetand gunner’s belt for the HRST master).

Monitoring the helicopter radio frequencybeing used and being prepared to issue warn-ings and instructions.

Issuing the “Abort” command any time theHRST training is not proceeding as briefed, theaircrew is having difficulty in maintaining asteady hover, or in the event of any other unfore-seen circumstance that may impact safety.

Aircraft Commander

The aircraft commander’s primary responsibilityis the safe conduct of the flight. Specific respon-sibilities are as follows:

Preflight Performing detailed preflight planning to ensurethere is sufficient helicopter power, and that theweather, ambient light, and drop zone condi-tions are conducive to safe HRST operations.

Ensuring that helicopter floor surfaces to beused for HRST are clean, dry, and free of oilysubstances.

Inspecting HRST rigging to ensure that it isadequately padded and that it will not damagethe helicopter or create a hazard.

Conducting a thorough face-to-face brief withthe HRST master and SIO. The brief shallinclude—

Conduct of the flight.Hover altitude.Number of ropers.Communications procedures between air-crew, HRST master, and SIO (to include pro-cedures if electronic communications fail).

Aircraft commander, HRST master, andcrew chief responsibilities.HRST personnel responsibilities in the eventof a helicopter emergency.

In-flight Conducting the flight as briefed. Authorizing “Deploy the rope” once establishedin a stable hover.

Authorizing “Abort” the mission if helicopteror environmental factors prohibit a stablehover.

Ensuring that a line of communications ismaintained between aircrew, HRST master,and SIO.

Responding (challenge and reply) to all com-mands from the crew chief and HRST master.

Authorizing “Cut rope” in the event of a heli-copter emergency and no other options areavailable.

Note: The aircraft commander has sole re-sponsibility to order that a rope be cut. Cut-ting a rope is the last alternative and only usedin an effort to save lives.

Post flight Participating in a thorough debrief of all HRSTmembers.

Crew Chief

The crew chief’s primary responsibility duringHRST is to assist the pilot with terrain/obstacleclearance and to assist with maintaining the heli-copter over the target area by passing voiceinstructions to the pilot. During HRST, the crewchief assumes certain responsibilities and dutiesin addition to his normal aircrew member duties:

Preflight Ensures that operable ICS headsets and gun-ner’s belts are available for the HRST masterand his assistants, as required.

Ensures that helicopter floor surfaces used forHRST are clean, dry, and free of oily substances.

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Installs the Schlomer frame, fast rope gantry,fast rope anchor bar, or A-frame fast ropeattachment bar as required.

Ensures that loose equipment and rope ends donot create hazards or preclude movementinside the helicopter.

Participates in the preflight HRST brief to theaircrew and, when possible, attends the HRSTmission brief to HRST members.

In-flight Assists the pilot in maintaining a steady hoverby passing voice instructions concerning thehelicopter’s position over the target area.

Assists the HRST master in passing voiceinstructions to the aircraft commander in theevent of ICS failure.

Ensures that all HRST masters wear gunner’sbelts when operating in the vicinity of a ropestation.

Ensures that all ropers remain strapped in untilinstructed to “Unbuckle” by the HRST master.

Monitors the condition and security of ropesand anchor points, being watchful for signs ofwear and slippage.

Ensures that all ropes are clear of ropers andthat all ropes are either retrieved, released, orclear of ground obstacles before passing clear-ance for forward flight to the aircraft com-mander.

Advises that the helicopter is clear for forwardflight by passing “Clear for forward flight” tothe aircraft commander.

Post flight Participates in the post flight debrief of allHRST members

Ensures that HRST equipment has been prop-erly removed from the helicopter.

Crew Coordination

Crew coordination is critical to safe HRST opera-tions. Coordination involves informational brief-ings, effective and responsive communications,and an understanding of HRST commands.

Briefings

Face-to-face briefings involve all HRST partici-pants. The HRST master gives a detailed HRSTmission brief to HRST participants (see app. A).If possible, the aircrew should be present duringthe HRST mission brief to HRST participants.

The HRST brief to the aircrew (see app. B) isconducted by the HRST master and the SIO. Theaircraft commander briefs emergency proceduresto all HRST participants.

Communications and HRST Commands

Internal Communications SystemAn operable ICS is mandatory for HRST. ICSheadsets must be provided for all HRST masters.Loud and clear intercommunications among thepilots, the crew chief, and the HRST master mustbe maintained at all times. In the event of ICSfailure, hand-and-arm signals are used to ceasetraining until an operable ICS can be restored.

Challenge and ReplyThe method of challenge and reply is mandatoryfor all HRST commands between the aircrew andthe HRST master. Challenge and reply providesclarity to intercommunications and assurance toall HRST participants that commands have beenpassed and received.

Radio CommunicationsOperable radio communications must be main-tained between the helicopter and the SIO, who islocated in the drop zone. If the SIO is aboard thehelicopter, he uses the ICS.

Hand-and-arm SignalsRopers must rely on hand-and-arm signals andverbal commands from the HRST master forcommunications. Therefore, a clear understand-ing of all HRST commands and hand-and-armsignals is mandatory by all HRST participantsand aircrew (see app. C).

HRST Operations ________________________________________________________________________________________________ 1-5

Safety

It is each Marine’s responsibility to understandand comply with the information in this publica-tion so that a safe training environment is main-tained. Every Marine involved in HRST has theauthority to question an unsafe situation and tohave any unsafe situation corrected prior to thecontinuation of training. Only personnel qualifiedin accordance with MCO 3500.42 can conductHRST operations. The following factors affectHRST operations. These measures are minimumsafety requirements and must be complied with.

Environmental Factors

Environmental factors may affect the aircraftcommander’s ability to safely maintain the posi-tion of the helicopter over the target area. Also,the effects of altitude, temperature, and humiditygreatly affect helicopter performance. The fol-lowing precautions must be taken to mitigate theeffects of environmental factors:

A minimum of 10 feet vertical clearance and15 feet horizontal clearance from obstacles aremandatory while conducting a hover for HRSToperations.

Care must be taken to select a drop/pickupzone that is relatively free of dust, snow, orother objects that could obscure the aircraftcommander’s vision.

HRST operations must be aborted if the air-craft commander is unable to detect a visiblehorizon or acquire visual reference points dueto weather conditions (e.g., fog, haze) or otherfactors.

The aircraft commander must complete aproper weight and balance calculation to deter-mine if environmental factors permit safeHRST operations.

Night Factors

Night operations can affect an aircraft command-er’s ability to maintain a steady position over thetarget area. They also challenge the HRST mas-ter’s ability to maintain control of ropers duringthe conduct of HRST. During nighttime opera-tions, the aircrew wears night vision devices(NVDs) as directed by current policy.

Helicopter Factors

The following precautions enhance safety insidethe helicopter:

Loose combat gear, padding, and rope ends thatcan create a tripping hazard to ropers as theymove to their rope stations must be securedinside the helicopter.

When HRST operations involve descendingthrough the hell hole, all personnel inside thehelicopter must be particularly cautious toavoid accidentally falling through the hell hole.Whenever possible the hatch to the hell holeremains closed until required for use.

A qualified HRST master will be located ateach rope station to ensure safety.

In addition to safety considerations inside thehelicopter, personnel must also be aware of thefollowing safety issues.

Rotor DownwashParticipants must be aware of the following ef-fects of rotor downwash:

Rotor downwash pushes ropers down the rope;therefore ropers must be prepared to applyadditional braking.

Rotor downwash causes sand and small objectsto be blown into the drop/pickup zone. Ropersmust wear approved eye protection goggles to

1-6 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCRP 3-11.4A

avoid eye injury from flying debris. Long-sleeve clothing is also required to avoid cuts,abrasions, and skin irritations.

The size of the helicopter affects the rotordownwash (large helicopters have greater rotordownwash than small helicopters).

The weight of the helicopter increases the rotordownwash effect (the more weight the greaterthe rotor downwash).

See figure 1-1.

Hover HeightHover height is affected by numerous factors;therefore, a specific altitude cannot be establishedfor all HRST operations. The following examplesimpact hover height:

Rotor downwash can agitate a rope hangingfrom the helicopter and cause the rope to whip,creating a dangerous situation. A slightlyhigher hover reduces the effect of rotor down-wash on the ground and the rope.

During wooded or mountain area HRST opera-tions, hover heights are restricted to the lowestpossible height commensurate with ropelength, obstacle clearance, visual cues, soil sta-bility, and rotor downwash.

Static DischargeStatic electricity is generated by a helicopter andis discharged from the aircraft by contact with theground. Therefore, personnel will not be in con-

30 Feet

40 Feet

30 Feet

20 Feet

10 Feet

The lower the helohovers, the largerthe area of calmunderneath it.

Ground surface

Legend:

Shaded areas are the zones of calm air beneath a helicopter hovering at different heights.This chart compares the relatively calm areas underneath a helicopter hovering at fourdifferent heights. If you start at the pair of marks that designate 40 feet, you'll seethat the calm areas get wider as the helicopter gets lower.

10 Feet

40 Feet

20 Feet

60 FeetOut of

Ground Effect

60 Feet

Figure 1-1. Rotor Downwash.

HRST Operations ________________________________________________________________________________________________ 1-7

tact with the rope as it touches the ground due tothe possibility that the rope may conduct staticelectricity. HRST operations will not commenceuntil the rope has made contact with the ground.

Dry ropes are nonconductive and do not allowstatic electricity to be discharged through them.However, ropers may experience a small harm-less shock upon reaching the ground due to thebody’s ability to conduct an electrical charge.Ropes may become conductive if they are wet.

Equipment and Clothing Safety

PaddingThe entire edge of the ramp, door, or hatch acrosswhich a rope is expected to lie or rub, is coveredwith appropriate material (e.g., fire hose, carpet,or other suitable material) to ensure that all sharpedges are padded. Taping over the edges is notacceptable; edges must be both padded and taped.Surfaces must be clean and free of oily fluids sothat tape will adhere and padding can be ade-quately secured.

Safety Ropes/Anchor PointsWhenever possible, HRST operations are con-ducted with a redundancy of safety backup ropesand rope anchor points:

Ensure that the weight on the rope is evenlyspread-loaded to numerous anchor points.

Incorporate secondary and tertiary anchorpoints in all rope configurations.

ClothingMarines should avoid wearing loose, bulky cloth-ing in order to reduce the possibility of clothingsnagging on protruding objects or becomingfouled in ropes. The following safety clothing is aminimum requirement to ensure personnel safety:

The utility uniform is worn: sleeves rolleddown and buttoned, blouse tucked into the trou-sers, belt buckle moved to the left hand side.

HRST participants wear appropriate head pro-tection according to mission requirements.

HRST participants wear appropriate eye pro-tection according to mission requirements.

A heavy leather outer glove and a lighter mate-rial liner are required for rappelling and fastrope operations.

Earplugs or other sound suppressive devicesare required for helicopter operations.

A 12 to 15 foot piece of rappelling rope is usedto create a military rappel seat or safety harness.

A life preserver personal (LPP) or other ap-proved personal flotation device (PFD) and anapproved emergency escape breathing device ismandatory for HRST operations over water.

A gunner’s belt (see fig. 1-2) is mandatory forthe HRST master or any HRST participant whois positioned at a helicopter opening or rope sta-tion. To enhance the effectiveness of the belt inthe event of an emergency, it should be wornabove the waist as high as possible (i.e., underthe armpits). The gunner’s belt must allow theHRST master to reach the rope station.

Figure 1-2. Gunner’s Belt.

1-8 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCRP 3-11.4A

Operational equipment, when required, isplaced to reduce the possibility of snagging:

Weapons are worn with the muzzle pointeddown and away from the brake hand whilerappelling (see fig. 1-3). The rifle is attachedby 550 cord, rifle sling, or similar material.When combat gear is worn, the cartridge beltmay be buckled behind the roper to keepequipment clear during a fast rope descent. Ifbuckled in the front, equipment should be re-moved from the right hand side of the car-tridge belt during rappelling operations.When a pack is worn, combat gear may beplaced inside of the pack. If combat gear isworn, equipment should be removed from theright hand side of the web belt (see fig. 1-4).

Accident Procedures

Medical personnel with the necessary medicalequipment (i.e., backboard with straps, cervicalcollar, medical bag) and safety vehicle must bepresent during all HRST operations. In the eventof an accident, the first priority is to injured per-sonnel. If personnel are injured, they are trans-ported to the closest military or civilian hospital.If possible, the nature of the injuries is radioedahead and the aircraft/safety vehicle’s estimatedtime of arrival. Once injured personnel are stabi-lized, the proper authorities are notified, state-ments obtained from witnesses, and appropriatereports filed.

Figure 1-3. Position of Weapon Figure 1-4. Position of Equipment.

CHAPTER 2ROPES, EQUIPMENT, AND KNOTS

The safety of all ropers depends upon the condi-tion and serviceability of HRST equipment.Therefore, ground and aviation maintenance per-sonnel must ensure that damaged and unservice-able equipment is not used.

The ropes, equipment, and knots discussed inthis chapter are approved for HRST operations.Deviations or substitutions must be approvedthrough the appropriate chain of command to theCommandant of the Marine Corps, Deputy Com-mandant, Plans, Policies and Operations (CMC,DC, PP&O).

Ground Equipment

The equipment discussed in this paragraph is pro-vided and maintained by the ground unit conduct-ing the HRST.

Rope Management

A new rope is physically inspected for any signsof damage or defects. After passing inspection,both ends of the rappel rope are burnt. The freeend of a fast rope is not burnt but whipped with550 cord (see fig. 2-1).

All ropes are checked for wear, cuts, frays, burns,mildew, and rotten areas both before and afterevery use. All ropes used in HRST must be freeof splices.

The unit stores and maintains all HRST ropes in aclean, well-ventilated, dry area. If a rope becomessoiled, shake it clean or rinse it with fresh waterand lay it out to dry before storage. If a ropebecomes wet, either in storage or during use, dryit as soon as possible. To dry a rope, uncoil it andlay it in a well-ventilated area. If possible, sus-pend the rope off the deck, on wooden pegs, or

on a rack to reduce drying time. If any part of arope comes in contact with any type of petroleumproducts (e.g., fuel, oil) the rope is consideredunserviceable as a lifeline and is removed fromservice. If a fast rope comes in contact with saltwater rinse it with fresh water and clean with anonmetallic brush.

A record of each rappel rope’s use and conditionis maintained in a rope log (see app. D).

Never keep a rope knotted or stretched longerthan necessary because it stretches and weakensthe rope. Never stand, walk, or step on a rope orsmoke within 50 feet of a rope, all these canweaken the rope. Protect nylon rope and web-bing from direct sunlight as much as possible toavoid ultraviolet deterioration.

Grading a Rope

Ropes are graded based on their usage and appear-ance. Using the criteria established in table 2-1 (onpage 2-2) rope serviceability can be determined.Ropes that do not meet the criteria established intable 2-1 are classified as unserviceable. Rappel

Last Round Through Loop

End

Lay Bight Along Rope

Start Whipping Here

Figure 2-1. Whipping End of the Fast Rope.

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ropes have a shelf life of 7 years and a service lifeof 5 years. SPIE ropes have a shelf life of 15 yearsand a service life of 7 years. Fast ropes have nei-ther a shelf nor a service life.

Proper periodic inspections of the rappel ropesare conducted throughout the rappel operation:every 30 minutes or 50 rappels. Whenever hour-glass indentations, burns, excessive sheath wear,cuts to sheath, or visible stress/elongations aredetected, the rope is removed from service. Con-tact with petroleum, oils, and lubricants (POLs)or petroleum-based solvents also permanentlydeadline a rappel rope. Ropes will not be autho-rized for further use within the rope grading tablematrix if any of this criteria is found.

A grade III rope is a rope that is nearing its dead-line limits, either through visual inspection orusage. Sling ropes and rappel seats may be cutfrom the points in the rope that are not excessive-ly worn. However, these sections must meet thesame frequent visual safety inspections for hour-glass indentations, burns, excessive sheath wear,cuts to sheath, or visible stress/elongation.Because the sling rope may be used as a rappelseat, it is necessary to maintain a high inspectionawareness. Use of a worn sling rope for a rappelseat can be catastrophic, because unlike rappellines used in tandem, the sling rope has no sec-ondary back-up upon failure.

SPIE and fast ropes grading emphasizes a visualinspection for serviceability. Visual inspectionsfor both fast ropes and SPIE ropes are as follows:

SPIE rope Check for excessive abrasion, fraying, or onecomplete, broken strand.

Inspect D-ring attachment points for corrosionand cracks.

Fast rope Burns. Cuts. Abraded yarns. Loose braiding. Strand kinking. Loose or missing whipping.

Although fast ropes and SPIE ropes graduallychange color, these color changes do not indicatea decrease in strength unless the change is due tocontact with strong chemicals. If a rope has hadchemical contact, its color change will not be uni-form throughout the length of the rope.

Removing a Rope From Service

Any rope that is considered defective or unser-viceable is removed from service and tagged withthe nature of the defect, the cause, and the date ofinspection. The tag is signed by an HRST master.Any HRST master has the authority to remove

Table 2-1. Rope Grading,

Grade Definition Appearance Use

I A new rappel line not older than 2 years with no more than 500 rappels on it.

Little or no wear. High/low rappel towers of 100 feet or less and combat equipped rappels or helicopter rappels.

II A rappel line older than 2 years with 500 but less than 1,000 rappels on it.

Shows slight external wear. Furry on outer sheath.

High/low rappel towers of 100 feet or less. No combat equipment stress exposure.

III A rappel line with more than 5 years or 1,000 rappels.

Shows slight external wear. Furry on outer sheath.

Sling ropes and rappel seats.

HRST Operations ________________________________________________________________________________________________ 2-3

any rope from service that he determines to bedefective or unserviceable.

Coiling a Rope

All HRST ropes should be coiled when not in useand hung from a wooden peg or cylindricalobject. Ropes will not be hung on any type ofmetal or steel object because of the possibility ofrust. When coiling a rope, avoid knots and entan-glements and provide maximum ventilation to therope surface. Place SPIE and fast ropes in para-chute kit bags for protection when not in use.There are two types of coils for rappel ropes:mountain coil and butterfly coil.

Mountain CoilThe mountain coil is the least preferred methodof coiling a rope because the rope tends to tangleup during uncoiling (see fig. 2-2).

Butterfly CoilThe butterfly coil is the most preferred method ofcoiling because it tangles less and can be tiedacross the back (see fig. 2-3).

Rope and SPIE Equipment Stowage

To stow ropes and SPIE equipment, ensure thefollowing:

Ropes and equipment are at least 4 inches fromwalls when stored on shelves.

Ropes and equipment are at least 4 inches fromthe floor when stored in bins.

Storage areas are well ventilated and free fromoil, acid, cleaning compounds, and other con-taminants.

Ropes and equipment are not stowed above ornear hot water pipes, heating apparatuses, ordirect sun light.

Figure 2-2. Mountain Coil.

Figure 2-3. Butterfly Coil.

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Static Kernmantle Rope

The static kernmantle rope consists of a highstrength inner core that is covered by an outerwoven sheath.

Plimoore Fast Rope

The plimoore fast rope is military green in colorand consists of multiple strands with a right-handlay weave. It is made of multifilament polyesterover multifilament polypropylene. The rope hasan end cap assembly with a 3-inch steel ring foraircraft anchoring. See figure 2-4.

SPIE Rope

The SPIE rope assembly consists of two taperedeye splices, one at each end. The tapered eyesplice, used for attaching the rope to the helicop-ter, is encapsulated in polyurethane for protectionfrom abrasion. The rope itself is coated with anylon solution that protects the core of the rope.There are five pairs of D-rings that start 7 feetfrom the running end of the rope, are spaced 1 footapart, and are 7 feet from the center to the centerof the succeeding pair of rings. See figure 2-5.

The SPIE system is inspected by a qualifiedHRST master at 6 month intervals and when ser-viceability is questioned. All inspections are doc-umented in the rope log book. Using units willcomply with service life limitations contained inNAVAIR 13-45-2, Special Patrol Insertion/Extraction (SPIE) System.

SPIE Harness Assembly

Inspect harness and suspension sling webbing forsigns of contamination from oil, grease, acid, andrust. Inspect for signs of wear such as cuts, twists,fading, fusing, fraying, burns, abrasions, and looseor broken stitches. A damaged harness or suspen-sion sling is removed from service and returned tosupply for appropriate disposition. In addition, allhardware is inspected for corrosion, pitting, easeof operation, security of attachment, bends, dents,nicks, and sharp edges. Replacement of hardware

General service contract #: GS07F14181

Diameter: 11mm

Tensile strength: 6,500 lbs

Length: Commonly 150 ft, available up to 600 ft spool

Color: Olive drab/black

Part number: 30 ft—3336681 (used as a training device at MCRD San Diego/Parris Island, no NSN assigned)

NSN: 60 ft—4020-01-500-576590 ft— 4020-01-500-5766120 ft—4020-01-500-5779

Fast rope diameter: 1¾ in

Fast rope tensile strength: 35,000 lbs

Figure 2-4. Plimoore Fast Rope.

NSN: 120 ft white rope—1670-01-065-0851120 ft black rope—1670-01-501-5491

D-ring: part number 101407

Diameter: 1 in

Tensile strength: 24,000 lbsD-rings—5,000 lbs

NSN: 1670-01-068-8342

HRST Operations ________________________________________________________________________________________________ 2-5

that requires unstitching or cutting of webbingrenders the entire harness, except chest strapadapter, unserviceable. If damaged, the harnesssuspension sling is returned to supply for appro-priate disposition. The SPIE harness consists ofbasic nylon fabric with two leg straps and a cheststrap (see fig. 2-6). The leg straps connect aroundthe Marine’s legs with an ejector/quick releasesnap that snaps into adjustable V-rings. The cheststrap laces through the buckle and is then backlaced for a quick release. On the back of the har-ness is a reversible (left or right) pick up strap intowhich a steel locking carabiner is inserted forattachment of the harness to the SPIE rope.

6'

6'

6'

6'

1'

1'

1'

1'

1'

84'

7'

Encapsulated Eye

(Aircraft Attachment

Point)

D-Ring

Lower Eye

Label

Figure 2-5. SPIE Rope.

Steel LockingCarabiner

AttachingStrap

ShoulderPad

Pile Tape

ChestStrap

ChestStrapAdapter

EjectorSnap

Label

V-Ring

PileTape

HookTape

LegStrap

Figure 2-6. SPIE Harness.

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Cargo Suspension Sling with Type IV Connector

The type-26, multi-loop, cargo suspension slingcomes in multiple lengths; however, the 9-foot,two-loop, nylon sling is the only one authorizedfor SPIE operations. The cargo suspension slingsare used as anchor points for the SPIE line. Thetype IV connector consists of a bottom plateassembly with two steel prongs and a spring-loaded top plate (see fig. 2-7). Inspection of thecargo suspension slings and type IV connector isdone before and after each use. Inspect the slingfor contamination from oil, grease, acid, or otherforeign matter. Look for cuts, fraying, or burnmarks on the webbing. The sling is unservice-able if more than three stitches in a row are looseor broken. Inspect the type IV connector forcracks, burrs, grooves, flaws, and rust. The topplate should be checked to ensure that the springis functioning properly and that it locks the

retaining plate into place. Remove any rust withsteel wool and apply a coating of a light non-petroleum based lubricant. Discard all type IVconnectors that have two holes in the bottomplate assembly. Clean cargo suspension slings byscrubbing with a brush. Wet slings should bedried on a drying rack.

The cargo suspension sling service life is 7 years,and it has a shelf life of 15 years.

Stubai 85 Carabiner

The Stubai 85 carabiner is a D-shaped, steel,modified, locking carabiner with a locking nut(see fig. 2-8). The Stubai 85 carabiner is used forall HRST systems. It is difficult to record thenumber of rappels executed on a carabiner; there-fore, frequent inspection is required. Inspect theStubai 85 carabiner for burrs and rust. Inspect thelocking gate spring to ensure it closes and that thelocking nut is secure. Discard unserviceable cara-biners through appropriate supply channels afterthey have been marked with spray paint.

NSN: Slings—2350-09-000-0918Type IV connector—1670-00-783-5988

Tensile strengths: Type-26, multi-loop sling—14,000 lbsType IV connector—40,000 lbs

NSN: 8465-01-276-8198


Type IV Link

Body

Type IV Link

Plate

Loop

Keeper

Figure 2-7. Cargo Suspension Sling with Type IV Connector.

HRST Operations ________________________________________________________________________________________________ 2-7

Omega 93 Carabiner

The Omega 93 carabiner is a D-shaped, steel,modified, locking carabiner with a locking nut(see fig. 2-9). The Omega 93 carabiner is used forall HRST systems. It is difficult to record thenumber of rappels executed on a carabiner; there-fore, frequent inspection is required. Inspect theOmega 93 carabiner for burrs and rust. Inspectthe locking gate spring to ensure it closes and thatthe locking nut is secure. Discard unserviceablecarabiners through appropriate supply channelsafter they have been marked with spray paint.

10K Locking Carabiner

The 10K locking carabiner is a steel, modified,D-shaped, locking carabiner with a locking nut(see fig. 2-10). The 10K carabiner is used for rig-ging the H-60 helicopter for HRST. Inspect the10K carabiner for burrs and rust. Inspect thelocking gate spring to ensure it closes and that thelocking nut is secure. Discard unserviceable cara-biners through appropriate supply channels afterthey have been marked with spray paint.

G-12 Clevis

The G-12 clevis is a ¾-inch shackle used to rig abraided eye fast rope to an H-60 helicopter’s res-cue hoist (see fig. 2-11).

Model number: MD 716S3


Gate

LockingNotch

LockingNotch

LockingNut

GatePivotPin

Body

Figure 2-8. Stubai 85 Carabiner.

Figure 2-9. Omega 93 Carabiner.

NSN: 4240-01-192-6272


NSN: 4030-00-678-8562


Figure 2-10. 10K Locking Carabiner.

Figure 2-11. G-12 Clevis.

2-8 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCRP 3-11.4A

Rescue 8 Descender

The Rescue 8 descender is a modified figureeight that is used when heavily-laden Marines arerappelling. The Rescue 8 has a set of ears extend-ing out of the side that are used when tying off.The Rescue 8 descender is made out of either alu-minum alloy or steel (see fig. 2-12).

Inspect the Rescue 8 descender for burrs orscratches that can cause cuts in the rope. The onlyeffective method to detect structural flaws orcracks is through nondestructive inspection (NDI).NDI can be performed at a Marine Aviation Logis-tics Squadron (MALS) metal shop.

Fast Rope Interface Kit

The fast rope interface kit consists of one, steelalloy double clevice assembly that incorporatesone quick-release pin and one locking carabiner(see fig. 2-13). It is used to connect the fast ropeto the primary anchor point for hell hole opera-tions on the CH-46E helicopter.

Note: The ½-in double clevis connector (partnumber S-247-1/2) is a sole-source purchaseitem that can be ordered from the JamesWalker Company, 7109 Milford IndustrialRd, Pikesville, MD 21208, phone number(410) 486-3950.

Leather Gloves

Rappel/fast rope personnel may use any heavyleather gloves approved by the HRST master.Heavy-duty, leather work gloves are consumableitems, come in several styles, and may be pur-chased at self-service. However, welder’s glovesare recommended for fast rope operations. Gaunt-let gloves are not appropriate because the internalpadding is positioned to protect the back of thehand and not the palm.

Tensile strength: Aluminum 7,000 lbsSteel 40,000 lbs

½-in double clevice connector (commonly called a James Walker)

NSN: Quick-release pins—5315-00-702-3139

Steel locking carabiner—8465-01-276-8198

Tensile strengths: Quick disconnect pins—2,950 lbsDouble clevice connector—9,200 lbs

Figure 2-12. Rescue Descender.

NSN: 8415-00-634-4660

Quick-Release Pin

1/2" Double Clevice

Connector

Steel Locking

Carabiner

Figure 2-13. Fast Rope Interface Kit.

HRST Operations ________________________________________________________________________________________________ 2-9

Sling Rope

A sling rope is a 12- to 15-foot piece of rappelrope that is 11mm in diameter and burnt on eachend. It is used to construct military rappel seatsand safety lines.

Tape

Military green, multi-use riggers or duct tape isused to protect ropes and lines at friction pointson the helicopter and to secure fire hoses or otherpadding. Oil residues can seriously reduce theadhesive properties of the tape resulting in dis-lodgment of the protective system. Tape may beobtained through self-service.

Goggles

Military impact plastic goggles with an elastichead strap are used to protect the eyes from sandand other flying debris.

Rigid Handle Machete

The rigid handle machete is the only authorizedemergency cutting device used for HRST opera-tions. It is 18 inches long and 2 inches wide.

Rope Storage Bag

The standard military parachutist kit bag is usedfor fast rope and SPIE rope storage.

Vario Sit Harness

The vario sit harness is an alternative to the mili-tary rappel seat. It is made of nylon webbing and

has an adjustable harness. Inspect harness and sus-pension sling webbing for signs of contaminationfrom oil, grease, acid, and rust. Inspect for signs ofwear such as cuts, twists, fading, fusing, fraying,burns, abrasions, and loose or broken stitches. Adamaged harness or suspension sling is removedfrom service and returned to supply for appropri-ate disposition. In addition, inspect all hardwarefor corrosion, pitting, ease of operation, security ofattachment, bends, dents, nicks, and sharp edges.Replacement of hardware that requires unstitch-ing or cutting of webbing renders the entire har-ness, except chest strap adapter, unserviceable. Ifdamaged, return the harness suspension sling tosupply for appropriate disposition.

Jacob’s Ladder

The Jacob’s ladder is a 30- to 50-foot ladder thatcan be attached to the cargo tie down rings of ahelicopter via three 2-inch eye splices. The ladderis deployed from the aircraft’s ramp in order toextract personnel from areas where the helicop-ter could not otherwise land.

It can be purchased commercially or manufac-tured locally. When constructing the Jacob’s lad-der locally, the preferred method of constructionis to use 11 millimeter static kermantle rope withwooden rungs. The rungs are cut in equal lengthsand are attached to the rope through holes drilledin each end. When using rungs with holes drilledin the ends, knots must be placed above andbelow the rungs on the line to prevent the rungsfrom moving. It is important the rungs be placedperpendicular to the line. The rungs are then coat-ed or wrapped with a non-skid type of material.Commerically available ladders must meet orexceed these standards.

Figure 2-14, on page 2-10, illustrates the typicalconstruction of the Jacob’s ladder. Ladders willvary in design depending on available materialsand mission requirements.

NSN: 8465-01-004-2893

NSN: Machete—5110-00-813-1286Sheath—8465-00-926-4932

NSN: 8460-00-606-8366

NSN: 8465-01-415-5136

2-10 __________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCRP 3-11.4A

Aviation Equipment

The aviation unit supporting the HRST operationprovides and maintains the following equipment.

Schlomer Frame

The Schlomer frame (see fig. 2-15) is used toattach one or two fast ropes at the ramp rope sta-tion of the CH-46E. It is manufactured at MALSand installed by the aircrew. It is a welded, tubu-lar, collapsible steel frame (anchor points incor-porate two quick-release pins that collapse theframe, allowing it to be stored when not in use).A serial number is etched and/or stamped on topof the frame above the quick-release pins.

The frame shall undergo NDI on a 365-day cycle.Repair and re-inspect any discrepancies or rejecta frame that cannot be repaired. The frame isinspected for—

Condition of all hardware (i.e., pins, cables). Condition of welds for cracks or fatigue. Condition of steel tubing for buckling, bending,rust, or deformation.

Cracks, fatigue, and stress at all joints, welds,and stress point.

The Schlomer frame’s usage is recorded on aCustody and Maintenance Record, which ismaintained by the aircraft squadron.

Fast Rope Gantry

The fast rope gantry is used to attach the fast ropeat the forward cabin rope station on either side ofthe UH-1N helicopter (port or starboard). The fastrope gantry (see fig. 2-16 on page 2-12) is a ped-estal and boom assembly that incorporates a baseplate for mounting on the aircraft deck. It has atwo-position locking arm for stowing or position-ing for use. The fast rope gantry and base plateassembly are modified from the UH-1 rescue hoistboom. Once modified for fast rope use, the gantryis marked “FOR FAST ROPE ONLY.” The fastrope gantry is installed by the aircrew.

The aircraft group maintains the gantry as anaccountable piece of support equipment. Thegantry’s usage is recorded on a Custody andMaintenance Record.

36" 18"

30' – 50'

15"

18" – 24"

4" x 4" x 34"

First Two Rungs

of the Running End

Figure Eight

Loop

11mm Static

Kermantle Rope

1 1/2" Hardwood Dowel Rungs

3 1/2" Overhang

Figure 2-14. Jacob’s Ladder Typical Construction (not to scale).

NSN: Boom rescue hoist—1680-00-120-0541

Base plate assembly: part number 205-072-236-1

HRST Operations _______________________________________________________________________________________________ 2-11

Hinged Plate

Quick-Release

Pin

Quick-Release

Pin

Quick-Release

Pin

Quick-Release

Pin

Bracket Assembly

Quick-Release Pins on U-Section Used to

Attach Steel Ring and Secondary Safety

Installed Schlomer Frame with Mounted

Fast Rope and Roper in Exit Position

Figure 2-15. Schlomer Frame.

2-12 __________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCRP 3-11.4A

Unless suspected of being damaged, inspection ofthe gantry follows the original maintenanceinspection cycle established for the rescue hoistboom and base plate assembly.

Fast Rope Anchor Bar

The fast rope anchor bar (see fig. 2-17) is used toattach up to two fast ropes at the ramp rope stationof the CH-53D helicopter. It consists of an alumi-num alloy rectangular bar and two attached quickrelease assemblies. The anchor bar secures to twopermanently installed brackets mounted on eachside of the cabin bulkhead. It is manufactured bythe Naval Aviation Depot, Naval Air Station,Pensacola, FL, and installed by the aircrew.

A-frame Fast Rope Attachment Bar Assembly

One fast rope can be attached to the A-frameduring hell hole operations from the CH-53E.The A-frame attachment bar assembly consistsof a monel sleeve assembly, a peanut link, andone 1-inch quick-release pin (see fig. 2-18).When installed, the bar replaces the two boltsused to attach the A-frame. It is manufacturedby the MALS and installed by the aircrew.

GantryBoom

Gantry BasePlate

Installed in theUH-1N

Figure 2-16. Fast Rope Gantry.

RollerCam

SwingBar

Quick-Release Pin

Quick-ReleaseArm

Figure 2-17. Fast Rope Anchor Bar.

HRST Operations _______________________________________________________________________________________________ 2-13

Knots

All knots used by ropers fall into four categories:end of the rope knots, anchor knots, middle of therope knots, and specialty knots. The square knot,water tape knot, and the double fisherman's knotare end of rope knots. Anchor knots include thebowline, clove hitch, and round turn with twohalf hitches. The figure eight loop is a middle ofthe rope knot. Specialty knots include the over-hand knot, end of the rope prussic, directionalfigure eight loop, military rappel seat, around thebody bowline with figure eight, munter hitch,three loop bowline, and swami wrap.

End of Rope Knots

Square KnotThe square knot is used to join two ropes of equaldiameter together. This knot is secured on eachside by an overhand knot. Pigtails will be a mini-mum of 4 inches (see fig. 2-19).

Peanut Link

Brackets

Monel Sleeve

Quick-ReleasePin

Steel RoundStock InsideSleeves

Figure 2-18. A-Frame Fast Rope Attachment Bar Assembly.

Figure 2-19. Square Knot.

2-14 __________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCRP 3-11.4A

Water Tape KnotThis knot is used to secure webbing or tape run-ners. It is constructed by tying an overhand knot(without twists) in one end of the tape and thread-ing the other end of the tape through the knotfrom the opposite direction. Pigtails should be aminimum of 4 inches (see fig. 2-20).

Double Fisherman’s KnotThis knot joins two rope ends of equal thicknessand is a strong joining knot. It is difficult to untieand is somewhat bulky. Pigtails should be a mini-mum of 4 inches (see fig. 2-21).

Anchor Knots

BowlineA bowline creates a loop at the end of a rope thatcan be used to secure the end of the rope aroundan object or anchor point. The pigtail must beinside and secured with an overhand knot. Pig-tails will be a minimum of 4 inches. Rope loop

size will be approximately 1 to 12 inches in dia-meter (see fig. 2-22).

Clove HitchThe clove hitch is used to secure a rope to a round/cylindrical object (e.g., trees, poles, pipes). It is anequal tension knot. Pigtails will be a minimum of4 inches (see fig. 2-23).

Round Turn with Two Half HitchesThis knot forms a loop that runs around an objectin such a manner as to provide 360 degree con-tact and may be used to distribute the load over asmall diameter anchor. It is secured with two halfhitches (see fig. 2-24).

Figure 2-20. Water Tape Knot.

Figure 2-21. Double Fisherman’s Knot.

Figure 2-22. Bowline Knot.

Figure 2-23. Clove Hitch.

Figure 2-24. Round Turnwith Two Half Hitches.

HRST Operations _______________________________________________________________________________________________ 2-15

Middle of the Rope Knot: Figure Eight Loop

The figure eight loop forms a single bight and isused as an anchor in the middle or end of the rope.Pigtails will be a minimum of 4 inches. Rope loopsize will be approximately 1 to 12 inches in diam-eter (see fig. 2-25).

Specialty Knots

Overhand KnotThe overhand knot is used to secure pigtails atthe end of a primary knot (see fig. 2-26).

End of the Rope PrussicThis knot moves freely along a fixed rope untiltension is applied to it. Once tension is applied,the knot locks in place. It can be used as a safety/retrieval line. This knot is always secured with abowline. Do not tie this knot with tape—it will

create less friction. Pigtails will be a minimum of4 inches (see fig. 2-27).

Directional Figure Eight LoopThe directional figure eight loop forms a single,fixed loop that can be tied so that the loop faceseither the standing end or the running end. It maybe used as a primary and secondary anchor. Ropeloop size will be approximately 1 to 12 inches indiameter (see fig. 2-28).

Figure 2-25. Figure Eight Loop.

Figure 2-26. Overhand Knot.

Figure 2-27. End of the Rope Prussic.

Figure 2-28. Directional Figure Eight Loop.

2-16 __________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCRP 3-11.4A

Military Rappel SeatThe military rappel seat is made from a sling rope:

Take the center of the sling rope and place it onthe left hip so that the running ends of the ropewrap around the waist just below the hip bone.

Bring both ends together in front of the body. Tie an overhand knot with two wraps in front. Bring the two running ends down through thelegs, up over the buttocks, and over the origi-nal waist wrap and the waist.

Bring the rope over itself forming a bight, thencinch the rope up tightly.

Note: The rope should run along the outsideof the buttocks.

Take the two running ends and make a squareknot with two overhands on the left hip.

Any loose rope from the square knot is tucked intoa pocket. Pigtails will be a minimum of 4 inches(see fig. 2-29).

Around the Body Bowline with Figure EightAround the body bowline is used as a secondaryanchor point for SPIE rigging and also as a safetyline for HRST operations. Pigtails will be a mini-mum of 4 inches (see fig. 2-30).

Munter HitchA munter hitch is a simple hitch in the rope thatis clipped into the carabiner to put friction on theline (see fig. 2-31).

Three Loop BowlineThe three loop bowline is a single knot that formsthree anchor loop points. The anchor knot isformed using part of the rappel line. This method

is best used when the rappel rope is guided fromthe deck through overhead rigging. Rig the threeloop bowline as follows (see fig. 2-32):

Use one end of the rope and fold over approxi-mately 10 feet of line. Adjust the length of thefold depending on the distance between theanchor points.

Figure 2-29. Military Rappel Seat.

HRST Operations _______________________________________________________________________________________________ 2-17

Use the folded over portion and tie a bowline.Tie the bowline with the doubled line the sameas a single line. The bowline will form two ofthe loops, while the running end will form thethird loop.

Attach all three loops to the attachment pointsusing locking carabiners. Ensure the gates arefacing up for easy inspection.

Adjust all loops equally or as needed by takingin or letting out the third loop formed.

Route the rappel line through a 10K carabinerthat is attached to the overhead in order to pro-vide for easier hook ups and exits.

Swami WrapThe swami wrap is used as an anchor for fastrope systems. A swami wrap consists of a slingrope and a steel locking carbiner. Rig the swamiwrap as follows:

Place the middle of a sling rope over theanchor point.

Figure 2-30. Around the Body Bowline with Figure Eight.

Figure 2-31. Munter Hitch.

Figure 2-32. Three Loop Bowline.

2-18 __________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCRP 3-11.4A

Create a minimum of seven full wraps aroundthe anchor point.

Place the carabiner in the center three wrapswith the gate facing down, the gate locked.

Fasten the free ends of the swami wrap with asquare knot, tight across the top of the wrap.

The square knot is secured with an overhandknot on both pigtails.

Pigtails will be a minimum of 4 inches and amaximum length that is less than that requiredto complete one full wrap.

See figure 2-33.

Overhand

KnotOverhand

Knot

Carabiner

Not a Full

WrapGate Facing

Down

Gate

Locked

Anchor

Point

Minimum

of Two

Full Wraps

Center,

Three

Wraps

Square

Knot

Figure 2-33. Swami Wrap.

CHAPTER 3TOWER TRAINING

Tower training prepares Marines for HRST. Thistraining provides the introduction to HRST andgradually introduces Marines to more demandingplatforms. The static tower may vary in size andheight from 30 to 90 feet. Marines who have metHRST static tower proficiency requirements andhave the recommendation of the HRST master incharge of the static tower training phase mayprogress to the helicopter training phase. Thischapter addresses tower training requirements andthe transition to helicopter training.

Training Phases

The tower is used to introduce a Marine to HRSTtechniques and for refresher training. Each phaseof rappel training, with and without gear, beginson a walled surface. HRST can also be taught bymounting a helicopter skid mock-up to the tower.The figure eight rappel may be taught on the towerwhen figure eight assault descenders are available.

Safety Personnel and Equipment

The following personnel and equipment arerequired during all static tower training:

One SIO. One HRST master per rope station. One corpsman equipped with medical bag, cer-vical collar, and backboard with straps.

Note: The corpsman will not participate as aroper.

One safety vehicle with driver. The driver willnot participate as a roper.

One belay man per rope station. Ropers willalternate stations.

Preparation

Rappel

All rappel rope stations are rigged with threeanchor points using the appropriate knots. Allanchor points must be certified as being load testedto 5,000 pounds. Any slack is removed betweenthe knots to create equal tension on all threeanchor points. Ten feet of rope will be on the deckduring tower rappelling for belay purposes.

Fast Rope

All fast rope stations are rigged with two anchorpoints. All anchor points must be certified asbeing load tested to 5,000 pounds per roper onthe rope at one time (e.g., single roper equals5,000 pound test, two ropers equal 10,000 poundtest). Ten feet of rope will be on the deck at alltimes during tower fast roping to assist in anchor-ing the running end of the rope.

Inspection

The HRST master is in charge of the tower, andhe is responsible for visually and physically in-specting the tower. Appendix E provides towerinspection standards.

3-2 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCRP 3-11.4A

Safety Procedures

The following safety procedures apply to alltraining on the tower:

The tower will not be utilized during thunder-storms or excessively high winds. If ice ispresent or if the platform is slick from rain,HRST training will be delayed until condi-tions are safe.

A roper will not carry anything in his handswhile climbing the ladder.

There will only be one roper on each ladder atany given time.

The HRST master or SIO determines howmany ropers per rope station is safe.

The HRST master and SIO must be aware ofropers who appear to be experiencing uneasi-ness with heights and train ropers only to theirconfidence level.

The HRST master or SIO will re-inspect eachroper’s equipment for proper donning and ser-viceability prior to the roper ascending thetower and prior to descending the rope.

The HRST master is secured to the tower witha safety line. The length of the safety line willnot exceed the amount necessary to performhis duties.

A roper will not descend the rope withoutproper gloves and a helmet.

At no time shall any participant step on a rope. Bounding is not permitted due to the stress itplaces on the ropes and anchor points.

Conduct of Training

Safety Brief

Prior to commencement of any training, theHRST master conducts a tower safety brief. Thesafety brief includes tower commands and prop-er roping techniques (see app. F).

Demonstration

After explaining tower procedures to all ropers,an assistant demonstrates one complete cycle oftraining on the tower. This allows the ropers tohear the HRST master issue the proper com-mands and see the actions and proper techniquesused on the static tower.

Tower Rappel Procedures

Once directed to a rope station, the HRST masterensures proper hook up for rappelling.While maintaining his brake, the roper, on commandfrom the HRST master, steps to the edge and facesthe anchor point.The roper sounds off his name “Jones on rappel.” Thebelay man responds with his name “Smith on belay.”On direction from the HRST master, the roper as-sumes the L-shaped position (see fig. 3-1).

On the command “Go” from the HRST master, theroper begins his descent.The belay man places the rappel rope high in hisupper back, under his armpits. He holds the standingend with his weak hand and the running end with hisstrong hand. If the roper loses control, the belay man

Figure 3-1. L-Shaped Position.

HRST Operations ________________________________________________________________________________________________ 3-3

positions the running end of the rope on his chest andruns backwards to stop the roper from falling. Thebelay man will not wear gloves and must keep hiseyes on the roper at all times. Once the roper is on the ground, the belay man grabsthe rope in front of the roper and holds it as the roperwalks backwards. The roper’s hands are placed above the carabiner toprevent being hit in the face with the end of the rope. Once clear of the rope, the roper sounds off his name“Jones off rappel,” and does a side-straddle hop. Once the roper has cleared the rope, the belay mansounds off his name “Smith off belay.”

Tower Skid Rappel

The tower skid rappel prepares Marines to rappelfrom a UH-1N helicopter. Proper training andsafety procedures are the responsibility of theHRST master.

The roper is hooked up while he sits on the platformjust above the helicopter skid.After sounding off, and on command from the HRSTmaster, the roper steps out onto the skid, turns around,and assumes an L-shaped position (see fig. 3-1).On command, the roper pushes out and descends.

Tower Fast Rope Procedures

Ropers execute a descent at speeds commensuratewith their experience/proficiency in fast rope operations.Once directed to a rope station by the HRST master,the roper assumes a seated or standing position. TheHRST master ensures that positive control of the roperis maintained until the individual roper has engagedthe fast rope. The HRST master ensures that the proper safetyequipment is donned by each roper. The HRST master directs the roper to engage the fastrope with the voice command “Feet, hands” for aseated fast rope descent or “Hands” for a standingfast rope execution.

On command from the HRST master, the roper ap-proaches the fast rope and grasps it with both handsand feet. Never jump for a rope. The HRST master taps the first roper on the back ofthe head while giving the voice command “Go.” The individual roper executes a 45 to 90 degree turnand descends the rope. While executing a fast rope, the roper keeps his handsat face level. The rate of descent is adjusted by hand,knee, and foot pressure on the rope.

Note: The roper does not descend hand-over-hand. The rope slides through gloved hands.

During descent, the roper looks down at the groundand the ropers below. The roper will not wrap feet and legs around the rope.Feet and legs hang with the rope passing between thearches of the feet (see fig. 3-2).

Figure 3-2. Fast Rope Technique.

3-4 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCRP 3-11.4A

If the hands start to burn, the roper will not let go of therope; instead he applies more feet and knee pressure. The roper executes a fast rope landing. At approxi-mately 3 to 5 feet from the ground, the roper spreadshis legs roughly shoulder-width apart, keeping hisknees slightly bent to absorb the landing. If the landingis poorly executed and the roper falls to the ground, heimmediately releases the rope and rolls out of thelanding area.

The HRST master ensures the tensile strength of theanchor point is not exceeded. During descent, a roper may lock in to preclude land-ing on a fallen roper by standing on the fast rope. Tolock in, slide one foot on the top of the other with therope placed between the feet. A wringing action withthe hands on the rope assists in a positive lock in.

CHAPTER 4 HELICOPTER RAPPELLING OPERATIONS

Rappelling is the technique used to lower oneselfdown a rope quickly when fast rope equipment isnot available or when the load carried by the roperis too heavy to permit safe fast rope operations.Marines rappel from a hovering helicopter as ameans of insertion when terrain, vegetation, or thetactical situation do not allow for landing. Thischapter establishes the basic guidelines for con-ducting helicopter rappelling operations and train-ing Marines in helicopter rappelling techniques.

Familiarization

A thorough briefing is required for all usersbefore rappelling operations are conducted. Thebrief should consist of, but not be restricted to, areview of all the equipment associated with rap-pelling, loading of personnel, helicopter approach,deplaning, descent, commands and signals, andpreflight and in-flight safety procedures. Fordeplaning, it is essential that personnel receive thenecessary training in rappelling techniques beforeusing rappelling on a tactical mission. When timeand the situation permit, unqualified personnel areallowed to watch a rappelling operation or to par-ticipate in the installation of equipment on thehelicopter in order to get familiar with both theequipment and rappelling techniques. Ropersunfamiliar with rappelling initially conduct train-ing without combat equipment until confidenceand skill level warrant more difficult operations.

Safety

All rappelling operations are preceded by a safetybrief. The safety brief should consist of, but notbe limited to, a review of all the equipment asso-ciated with rappelling, insertion methods, and,most importantly, emergency procedures (see

apps. A and B). The following safety measuresare taken during rappelling operations.

Required Personnel and Equipment

The following is a list of personnel and equip-ment that is required prior to conducting rappel-ling training:

One SIO. One HRST master per aircraft in the UH-1Nand H-60 or one HRST master per rope stationin the CH-46E, CH-53D/E, and H-47.

One corpsman equipped with medical bag, cer-vical collar, and backboard with straps. Thecorpsman will not participate as a roper.

One safety vehicle with driver. The driver willnot participate as a roper.

Radio communications with personnel in theinsert zone.

One belay man. The belay man holds the ropeto steady it for the ropers. When belaying out ofa helicopter, the belay man positions himselfunder the exit point so as not to inadvertentlyslow or stop the roper prematurely (see fig. 4-1on page 4-2).

Rope Deployment Methods

There are two types of rope deployment meth-ods: circular loop and rope deployment bag. Tocreate a circular loop, coil the rope in a roundcoil as it is being placed in a waterproof bag.Make sure to coil from running end first, finish-ing at the standing end. DO NOT tie any knots atthe end of the rope or secure the rope to the bagin any fashion. The rope deployment bag deploysthe rope in an orderly manner. The rope is back-stacked into the bag in an S-type manner, startingwith the running end and working to the standingend. DO NOT tie or secure the rope to thedeployment bag in any way.

4-2 ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCRP 3-11.4A

WARNINGAttaching any object or weight to the runningend of any rope is prohibited. Objects at-tached to a rope could prevent a roper fromfreeing himself from the rope in the event ofan emergency.

To counter the effects of rotor downwash, a mini-mum of 15 to 20 feet of rope on the ground canact as a rope weight.

Rigging/Hook Up

All helicopters rig for rappelling in the samebasic manner. No helicopter modifications arenecessary for rappel rigging. Two basic require-ments are mandatory when rigging for rappelling:redundancy of attachment points and adequatepadding to ensure no damage to the ropes. TheHRST master is responsible for properly riggingthe helicopter and he personally inspects all rap-pel rigging. Rappelling can be conducted from

the UH-1N, CH-46E, CH-53D/E, H-47, and H-60helicopters. Rigging the H-47 and H-60 helicop-ters may use equipment that is not organic to theMarine Corps. The gear in these procedures isorganic to the aircraft assets that may be providedby the other Services.

Rigging the UH-1N

The UH-1N’s rope stations are located on theport and starboard side. The UH-1N’s rappel sys-tem uses three cargo tie down fittings, located onthe floor, as anchor points for each rope station.Each UH-1N’s rope station has two rappellingropes and three steel locking carabiners in athree-point, one-directional fixed assembly. Theassembly allows quick installation and removalwhile maintaining safety. Only one tie down fit-ting

Documents

Helicopter Rope Suspension Techniques (HRST) Operations 3-01B... · 2017. 10. 18. · CD&I (C 116) 2 May 2016 ERRATUM to MCRP 3-11.4A HELICOPTER ROPE SUSPENSION TECHNIQUES (HRST)