afman10-3507.pdf

BY ORDER OF THE SECRETARY

OF THE AIR FORCE

AIR FORCE MANUAL 10-3507

9 MAY 2023

Operations

AFSPECWAR MOUNTAIN

OPERATIONS PROGRAM

COMPLIANCE WITH THIS PUBLICATION IS MANDATORY

ACCESSIBILITY: Publications and forms are available for downloading or ordering on the e-

Publishing web site at www.e-Publishing.af.mil

RELEASABILITY: There are no releasability restrictions on this publication

OPR: AF/A3S Certified by: AF/A3S

(Colonel Leland K. Cowie II)

Pages: 41

This manual implements Department of the Air Force Policy Directive (DAFPD) 10-35, Air Force

Special Warfare. This publication establishes the Air Force Special Warfare (AFSPECWAR)

Mountain Operations Program, to include program authority and administration; training, qualifications, and requirements; and procedures applicable to mountain operations. This publication applies to all AFSPECWAR personnel as defined by DAFPD 10-35, including

AFSPECWAR assigned mission support and civilian personnel involved in mountain operations missions, training, support, or administration. Except where noted otherwise, this publication applies to all levels of the Regular Air Force, the Air Force Reserve, and the Air National Guard.

For the purpose of this manual, references to major commands (MAJCOMs) shall be interpreted to include the Air National Guard and the Director, Air National Guard shall be interpreted to be the equivalent of a MAJCOM commander. This publication does not apply to the United States

Space Force. Ensure all records generated as a result of processes prescribed in this publication adhere to Air Force Instruction (AFI) 33-322, Records Management and Information Governance

Program, and are disposed in accordance with (IAW) the Air Force Records Disposition Schedule, which is located in the Air Force Records Information Management System. Refer recommended changes and questions about this publication to the office of primary responsibility (OPR) using the Department of the Air Force (DAF) Form 847, Recommendation for Change of Publication;

route DAF Forms 847 from the field through the appropriate functional chain of command. This publication may be supplemented at any level, but all supplements must be routed to the OPR of this publication for coordination prior to qualification and approval. Send supplements to

Headquarters Air Force Special Warfare Directorate (AS/A3S) at AF.A3S.Workflow@us.af.mil or to AF/A3S, 1480 Air Force Pentagon, Washington, DC 20330-1480. The authorities to waive http://www.e-publishing.af.mil/ mailto:AF.A3S.Workflow@us.af.mil

2 AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023

wing/unit level requirements in this publication are identified with a Tier (“T-0, T-1, T-2, T-3”) number following the compliance statement. See Department of the Air Force Manual (DAFMAN)

90-161, Publishing Processes and Procedures, for a description of the authorities associated with the tier numbers. Submit requests for waivers through the chain of command to the appropriate tier waiver approval authority, or alternately, to the publication OPR at

AF.A3S.Workflow@us.af.mil for non-tiered compliance items. Send all waivers to AF/A3S within five business days for tracking and process improvement. The use of a name or mark of any specific manufacturer, commercial product, commodity, or service in this publication does not imply endorsement by the Department of the Air Force.

Chapter 1—AIR FORCE SPECIAL WARFARE MOUNTAIN OPERATIONS PROGRAM 5

1.1. Purpose

1.2. Scope

1.3. Key Terms and Definitions

1.4. General Guidance

1.5. Deviations from Guidance and Waiver Authority

Chapter 2—ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 8

2.1. Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations, through the Director of Special Warfare

(AF/A3S)

2.2. AFSPECWAR Mountain Operations Program Manager (AMPM)

2.3. Air Force Chief of Safety (AF/SE)

2.4. Air Force Surgeon General (AF/SG)

2.5. Career Field Manager (CFM)

2.6. Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC)

2.7. Air Education and Training Command (AETC)

2.8. MAJCOM Commander

2.9. MAJCOM Mountain Operations Program Manager (MMPM)

2.10. Unit Commander

2.11. Unit Mountain Operations Point of Contact (POC)

2.12. Climber

Chapter 3—QUALIFICATION, TRAINING, & CURRENCY REQUIREMENTS 14

3.1. General Training Requirements

3.2. Mountain Team Member Qualification

Table 3.1. DoD Mountain Team Member Courses

Table 3.2. Mountain Team Member Critical Task List mailto:AF.A3S.Workflow@us.af.mil

AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023 3

3.3. Mountain Operator Qualification

Table 3.3. Mountain Operator Critical Task List

3.4. Mountain Leader Qualification

Table 3.4. Mountain Leader Critical Task List

3.5. Continuation Training and Frequency Requirements

Table 3.5. Continuation Training

3.6. Continuation Training Task Definitions

3.7. Special Warfare Mission Support (SWMS) Personnel

3.8. Civilian Certifications

Chapter 4—EQUIPMENT & INSPECTIONS 22

4.1. Mountain Operations Equipment and Accessories

4.2. Equipment Deviations

4.3. Category I Equipment Maintenance and Inspections

Chapter 5—ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS & CONSIDERATIONS 25

5.1. Environmental Effects

5.2. General

Table 5.1. Risk Management Considerations for Operations Greater Than 72 Hours

5.3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements and Individual Equipment

Recommendations

5.4. Cold Weather Considerations

5.5. Glacier Requirements and Considerations

5.6. Alpine (Snow and Avalanche)

Chapter 6—ROPED RESCUE 30

6.1. General

6.2. Briefing Requirements

6.3. Risk Management Considerations

6.4. General Requirements

6.5. Lowering Systems and Mechanical Advantage Requirements

6.6. Haul Systems and Mechanical Advantage Requirements

6.7. Suspension Traverse Requirements

6.8. Climbing Requirements

6.9. Rappelling Requirements

4 AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023

Chapter 7—PROCEDURES & RESTRICTIONS 34

7.1. Medical Coverage Requirements

7.2. Medical Support Procedures:

7.3. Medical Support at Altitude (above 8,000 Mean Sea Level (MSL))

7.4. Mishap and Incident Reporting and Investigations

Attachment 1—GLOSSARY OF REFERENCES AND SUPPORTING INFORMATION 37

AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023 5

Chapter 1

AIR FORCE SPECIAL WARFARE MOUNTAIN OPERATIONS PROGRAM

1.1. Purpose. This manual establishes the AFSPECWAR Mountain Operations Program to standardize administration, training, and qualification procedures. All mountain operations will be conducted IAW this manual. (T-2) Additionally, this manual defines equipment and safety standards required across all MAJCOMs to increase mission effectiveness.

1.2. Scope. This manual applies to all AFSPECWAR personnel (Regular Air Force, Air Force

Reserve, Air National Guard, DAF civilian personnel, and contractors when stipulated in their contracts) involved in training, operational, or administrative aspects of mountain operations. This publication does not address confined space and structural collapse, or tactical insertion and extraction from an aerial platform. This manual does not address off-duty mountaineering (e.g., recreational climbing) by DAF military or civilian personnel.

1.3. Key Terms and Definitions.

1.3.1. Mountain Operations. Operations that expose personnel to adverse and technical terrain (e.g., alpine, glacier, canyon, river, etc.) with significant environmental hazards (e.g., high altitude, vertical obstacles, extreme temperatures, and weather changes, etc.) that obstruct movement, where risk and mobility increase proportionally and safety is dependent on technical knowledge and proficiency in specialized tactics, techniques, procedures (TTP), and equipment.

1.3.2. Climber. A generic term used to encompass personnel who are qualified to perform mountain operations, or those participating in training under the supervision of qualified personnel.

1.3.3. Certification. Procedure used to document competency in a particular task. Not interchangeable with qualification, which requires an evaluation.

1.3.4. Evaluator. An AFSPECWAR instructor who has been designated to conduct

AFSPECWAR evaluations or a task certifier qualified to conduct third party evaluations.

1.3.5. Spot Evaluation. The evaluation of a specific task or event that provides the commander with feedback on individual skills or specific team mission capabilities.

1.3.6. Qualification. Designation arising from graduating an approved course or a successful evaluation, documented on AF Form 1035, AFSPECWAR Evaluation Form or AF Form 803, Report of Task Evaluations that allows a member to perform specified duties.

1.4. General Guidance. Only qualified and current mountain leaders or mountain operators, as outlined within this AFMAN, using Department of Defense (DoD) approved and/or certified procedures and equipment, will oversee mountain operations. (T-2)

1.4.1. External Publications. This manual references outside publications, to include the

United States Special Operations Command Manual (USSOCOM M) 350-34 Special

Operations Forces Baseline Interoperable Standards - Mountaineering and Mountaineering:

The Freedom of the Hills. When this manual directs climbers to reference outside publications, consult the most current published version.

6 AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023

1.4.2. Mountain operations with Joint Force or foreign units. Climbers may use joint or foreign procedures if they do not conflict with this manual or written guidance prescribed by this manual. (T-2) Climbers may use joint or foreign equipment if it meets requirements specified in Chapter 4 and has been inspected by a mountain operator or mountain leader who received basic familiarization and emergency procedures training on the equipment.

1.5. Deviations from Guidance and Waiver Authority. Do not deviate from the guidance in this manual except when the situation demands immediate action to prevent loss of life, serious injury, or an otherwise urgent safety requirement exists. When it is necessary to protect those under their control from a situation not covered by this manual and immediate action is required, the climber with the highest level of qualification has authority and responsibility for the course of action taken. That climber evaluates available options, and takes or directs the appropriate action to ensure the safety of the operation.

1.5.1. Climbers functioning under the purview of a chartered test organization may deviate from the contents of this manual as outlined in individually approved test plans required for test and evaluation purposes. When a test plan has deviations from this manual, forward the approved test plan to the AFSPECWAR Mountain Operations Program Manager (AMPM) for awareness and tracking. (T-1)

1.5.2. Units will report all deviations without an approved waiver to the appropriate waiver authority when tactically or operationally feasible. (T-1) Waiver authority will notify AF/A3S of deviation and assess any need to modify current standards. (T-1)

1.5.3. Units will report deviations occurring during operational mission execution, to include contingencies, to the MAJCOM Mountain Operations Program Manager (MMPM) (include

AF/A3S as informational addressee) when tactically or operationally feasible. (T-2)

1.5.4. Waiver Authority. MAJCOM commanders have authority and responsibility for mountain operations under their control. MAJCOMs will coordinate with AF/A3S any waivers of safety and operational procedures; personnel qualification requirements; and equipment related to mountain operations. (T-1) Procedures, checklists, and record traffic published at the

MAJCOM level and on record with AF/A3S constitute authorization to deviate from standard guidance in paragraph 1.4.

1.5.4.1. For waivers to deviate from established procedures specified in this manual and associated inter-service references during contingencies, waiver authority is the Air

Component Director of Operations, the Joint Special Operations Task Force Director of

Operations, equivalent Major Military Command Director of Operations, or their designated representatives, as applicable.

1.5.4.2. For exercises and training, waiver authority will be retained at the MAJCOM

Director of Operations or their designated representative unless specifically identified in this manual. (T-2)

1.5.5. Operational or procedural waiver requests must substantiate the urgent or unusual circumstances that justify their approval. Requestors will include the following:

1.5.5.1. Procedure or item from which there is a deviation. (T-1)

1.5.5.2. Specific unit and name(s) of individual(s) requiring the waiver. (T-1)

1.5.5.3. Inclusive dates of the waiver period. (T-1)

AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023 7

1.5.5.4. Specific location for which the waiver will be granted. (T-1)

1.5.5.5. Circumstances that necessitate the requirement for the waiver. (T-1)

1.5.5.6. Applicable training, upgrade, and documentation requirements used to prepare personnel to operate under the waiver. (T-1)

1.5.5.7. Unique currency and refresher training specifications that pertain to the waiver, as applicable. (T-1)

1.5.5.8. Mission impact of waiver denial. (T-1)

1.5.5.9. Planned actions, including implementation status, to correct the conditions that necessitated the waiver. (T-1)

8 AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023

Chapter 2

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

2.1. Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations, through the Director of Special Warfare

(AF/A3S). AF/A3S serves as the service proponent and OPR that executes programmatic oversight of the AFSPECWAR Mountain Operations Program.

2.1.1. Coordinates and publishes mountain operations program guidance.

2.1.2. Appoints the AMPM to oversee the Mountain Operations Program and function on behalf of AF/A3S when delegated.

2.1.3. Briefs and coordinates with Headquarters Air Force directorates and other officials or organizations on mountain operations, equipment, and training matters.

2.1.4. Acts as the primary interface with other service agencies to coordinate, publish, and distribute all applicable joint publications and periodicals pertaining to mountain operations

TTP, and authorized equipment. Exception: Air Force Special Operations Command

(AFSOC) has direct liaison authority to coordinate with USSOCOM and USSOCOM components.

2.1.5. Establishes qualification criteria and administrative procedures for documentation in training records.

2.2. AFSPECWAR Mountain Operations Program Manager (AMPM). The AMPM serves as the principal mountain operations subject matter expert responsible for program standardization, evaluation, and mountain operations-related activities and logistics.

2.2.1. Maintains subject matter expertise in mountain operations and meets at least one of the following criteria:

2.2.1.1. Holds a 19Z, 1Z, or 1T0 Air Force Specialty (AFS) and is qualified as a mountain leader.

2.2.1.2. Has previously held a 19Z, 1Z, or 1T0 AFS and was previously qualified as a mountain leader.

2.2.1.3. Has extensive field experience with diverse exposure to a variety of mountain and rope rescue, rope access, and climbing skills.

2.2.2. Maintains, coordinates, and authorizes changes to the AFSPECWAR Mountain

Operations approved-for-use-list (AUL).

2.2.3. Assists Air Education and Training Command (AETC) in formulating, implementing, and evaluating formal training programs for mountain operations. Recommends and coordinates changes to training and procedures, where appropriate.

2.2.4. Develops and maintains mountain operations qualification training plans (QTP).

2.2.5. Assesses and certifies service and civilian curricula, qualification training plans (QTP), and/or blocks of training for basic and advanced skills that meet mission requirements. This responsibility may be delegated to the MMPM.

AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023 9

2.2.6. Establishes administrative procedures for qualifications, continuation training, and currency requirements in coordination with MMPMs.

2.2.7. Maintains Mountain Operations Program checklists and safety inspection checklists.

2.2.8. Convenes and chairs the Executive Mountain Operations Committee meeting to discuss and review AFSPECWAR and MAJCOM Mountain Operations Program efforts.

2.2.8.1. Committee serves as the focal point for cross-MAJCOM communication;

develops, publishes, and distributes safety messages, equipment bulletins, and quality deficiency reports; and coordinate TTP across the AFSPECWAR community. The AMPM may invite additional attendees as necessary.

2.2.8.2. AFSPECWAR Executive Mountain Operations Committee voting members are the AMPM and MMPMs.

2.2.8.3. Other Executive Mountain Operations Committee members include: AFS Career

Field Managers; 1Z1 (Pararescue (PJ)), 1Z2 (Combat Control (CCT)), 1Z3 (Tactical Air

Control Party (TACP)), 1Z4 (Special Reconnaissance (SR)), 1T0 Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE), 19ZXA (Special Tactics Officer (STO)), 19ZXB (TACP

Officer), and 19ZXC (Combat Rescue Officer (CRO)).

2.2.9. Maintains a total force MMPM contact roster to disseminate information and promote communication.

2.2.10. Establishes direct access to the Air Force Safety Automated System (AFSAS)

(https://afsas.safety.af.mil) or establishes a process to ensure organizational safety personnel inform them of all mountain operations mishaps as soon as operationally feasible.

2.2.11. Develops, publishes, and distributes applicable safety messages, equipment bulletins and quality deficiency reports as required.

2.2.11.1. Reviews all reported military mountain operations mishaps, incidents, near-mishaps, hazards, and deviations.

2.2.11.2. Coordinates review of mishap reports across applicable headquarters offices.

2.2.12. Participates in or sends a representative to joint and sister service mountain operations program conferences, as required.

2.3. Air Force Chief of Safety (AF/SE). AF/SE, through the Air Force Safety Center, Occupational Safety Division, will:

2.3.1. Ensures the AFSAS has a category for incidents that occur under this program.

2.3.2. Upon request, provides statistical data analysis on all mountain operations-related mishaps or events.

2.3.3. Upon request, provides technical assistance to mountain operations-related investigation boards and other safety matters.

2.3.4. Coordinates with joint and sister service safety offices as appropriate.

2.3.5. Updates safety investigation membership requirements and ensures that the convening authority selects one or more mountain leaders as Safety Investigation Board (SIB) members.

https://afsas.safety.af.mil/

10 AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023

2.3.6. Incorporates the AMPM and MMPMs into all mountain operations safety and investigation processes.

2.4. Air Force Surgeon General (AF/SG). AF/SG, through the Air Force Medical Readiness

Agency will review all mountain operations mishap reports and provide medical support to mishap investigations.

2.5. Career Field Manager (CFM). CFMs of mountain operations-inherent Air Force

Specialties; 1Z1, 1T0, and 19ZXC CFMs will update the AF Officer and Enlisted Classification

Directories and AFS-specific CFETPs with requirements for conducting mountain operations and supporting education and training plans. CFMs coordinate these updates with the AMPM for standardization and program oversight.

2.6. Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC). AFMC will coordinate any test, evaluation, and certification of mountain operations equipment when requested by AF/A3S.

2.7. Air Education and Training Command (AETC). AETC will oversee and provide initial skills training as directed in individual CFETPs.

2.8. MAJCOM Commander. MAJCOM commanders have authority and responsibility for mountain operations under their control to include the development of service unique TTP and equipment that are not provided for elsewhere in this manual.

2.8.1. Appoints a MMPM in writing and forward appointment letter to AF/A3S. These positions advise the MAJCOM commander on mountain operations-related issues.

2.8.2. Be the final authority on all requests for waiver of safety and operational procedures;

and personnel qualifications (except physical standards).

2.9. MAJCOM Mountain Operations Program Manager (MMPM). The MMPM serves as the principal mountain operations programmatic subject matter expert responsible for mountain operations program standardization and mountain operations-related activities and logistics for the

MAJCOM.

2.9.1. Maintains subject matter expertise in mountain operations and meets at least one of the following criteria:

2.9.1.1. Holds a 19Z, 1Z, or 1T0 AFS and is qualified as a mountain leader.

2.9.1.2. Has previously held a 19Z, 1Z, or 1T0 AFS and was qualified as a mountain leader.

2.9.1.3. Has extensive field experience with diverse exposure to a variety of mountain and rope rescue, rope access, and climbing skills.

2.9.2. Establishes, approves, and monitors (as required) command-specific mountain operations programs, policy, guidance, and training programs according to operational need.

2.9.3. Submits mountain operations equipment requirements to the AMPM prior to government obligation for validation and eventual inclusion on the AFSPECWAR Mountain

Operations AUL as described in Chapter 4.

AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023 11

2.9.4. Coordinates (as required) with AF/A3S and MAJCOM functional managers (MFM) to establish directives, procedures, and requirements to evaluate training programs and capabilities of assigned or attached climbers to perform their duties consistent with the

MAJCOM mission.

2.9.5. Participates in the AFSPECWAR Executive Mountain Operations Committee.

2.9.6. Assists AF/A3S to develop and maintain mountain operations QTPs.

2.9.7. Attends AFSPECWAR, joint, sister service, and industry conferences, meetings, boards, task forces, and committees pertaining to military mountain operations when feasible and applicable.

2.9.8. Identifies, prepares, or validates operational requirements, mission needs statements, and operational requirements documents as required. Additionally, participates in the

MAJCOM mission area plans process.

2.9.9. Coordinates with MFMs and training points of contact (POC) to request slots for formal courses.

2.9.10. Conducts operational, administrative, and equipment inspections of units with a mountain operations program, at least every 24 months, to verify compliance with this manual and other appropriate safety regulations; forwards a copy of results to the AMPM.

2.9.11. Provides units with program checklists and safety evaluation checklists prior to unit mountain operations program inspections.

2.9.12. Reviews, concurs, or non-concurs with requests for waivers of safety, operational procedures, and personnel qualifications (except physical standards).

2.9.13. Reviews service and civilian curricula, qualification training plans, and/or blocks of training for basic and advanced skills that meet mountain operations requirements and coordinates approval with AF/A3S.

2.9.14. Participates in mountain operations investigations as required. The MMPM for the affected MAJCOM coordinates mountain operation mishaps with AF/A3S, the AMPM, and other MMPMs, as appropriate, to ensure at least one MMPM will not be authorized access to privileged safety information about the mishap until after all legal investigations are complete.

2.9.15. Reviews all mountain operations mishap, incident, near-mishap, and hazard reports and ensures all required follow-up actions are accomplished.

2.9.16. Manages safety recommendations using AFSAS; and forwards reports of completed actions to the AMPM to ensure dissemination of lessons learned.

2.9.17. Disseminates safety information, tactics, and procedures to unit POCs.

2.9.18. Approves or disapproves mountain operations equipment research, development, test and engineering (RDT&E) (see paragraph 4.1.4).

2.9.19. Reviews and archives all operational consolidated mission reports that pertain to mountain operations, and forwards copies to the AMPM.

2.9.20. Establishes the interval of snow and ice operational training via memorandum for record or supplement to this publication.

12 AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023

2.10. Unit Commander.

2.10.1. Appoints in writing, a POC to manage the unit’s mountain operations program and forwards a copy of the appointment letter to the MMPM. The unit POC advises the commander on mountain operations-related issues and oversees all unit mountain operations-related areas.

Unit commanders may, at their discretion, delegate the below duties to the mountain operations

POC.

2.10.2. Implements higher headquarters policies and procedures.

2.10.3. Ensures all written guidance prescribed by this manual, as well as manuals, TTP, technical orders (T.O.) for unit-owned equipment, is maintained and readily available to all assigned climbers.

2.10.4. Ensures unit-assigned personnel who participate in mountain operations and are not from mountain operations inherent AFSs are trained and, when applicable, designated in writing on the Squadron’s Letter of Qualifications (LoX).

2.10.5. Ensures mountain operations are implemented into the unit’s risk management process. Guidance on risk management is provided in AFI 90-802, Risk Management.

2.10.6. Generates and forwards operational consolidated mission reports that pertain to mountain operations through the chain of command, and to the MMPM, within seven days of mission completion or as soon as operationally feasible.

2.10.7. Submits mountain operations equipment requirements to the MMPM prior to government obligation for validation and eventual inclusion on the AFSPECWAR Mountain

Operations AUL as described in Chapter 4.

2.10.8. Reports all deviations without an approved waiver.

2.10.9. Reports and reviews all events, to include mishaps, incidents, hazards, and near-mishaps according to paragraphs 7.4 through 7.4.5.

2.10.10. Ensures all mission support personnel meet the training and qualification requirements outlined in paragraph 3.6 when augmenting mountain operations.

2.11. Unit Mountain Operations Point of Contact (POC).

2.11.1. Maintains subject matter expertise in mountain operations and meets at least one of the following criteria:

2.11.1.1. Holds a 19Z, 1Z, or 1T0 AFS and is qualified as a mountain leader.

2.11.1.2. Has previously held a 19Z, 1Z or 1T0 AFS and was qualified as a mountain leader.

2.11.1.3. Has extensive field experience with diverse exposure to a variety of mountain and rope rescue, rope access, and climbing skills.

2.12. Climber.

2.12.1. Performs mountain operations only when a current annual medical examination is on file with the climber’s assigned medical treatment facility. Additionally, climbers may conduct and log training events when not prohibited by medical restrictions.

AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023 13

2.12.2. Monitors their training and currency requirements to ensure proper record entries in on-the-job training (OJT) records, and Aviation Resource Management System (ARMS) or other MAJCOM- or AFS-specific formats.

2.12.3. Maintains the training standards, currency and qualification requirements in this manual and report changes in status immediately to supervisors, including medical conditions or duty limiting conditions that impact the ability to safely participate in mountain operations training and missions.

14 AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023

Chapter 3

QUALIFICATION, TRAINING, & CURRENCY REQUIREMENTS

3.1. General Training Requirements. Mountain operations training events are those conducted by current and qualified climbers, climbers in upgrade training (UGT), or climbers who are regaining currency. Note: Off-duty mountaineering (e.g., recreational climbing) does not satisfy military mountain operations requirements for qualification or continuation training.

3.1.1. All mountain operations will be conducted IAW this manual. (T-2) Exception:

AFSOC-assigned climbers will adhere to USSOCOM M 350-34 for mountain operations qualification and training under USSOCOM authority. (T-2)

3.1.2. Climbers who have completed an AF/A3S approved course of instruction, or completed training at a formal DoD approved mountain operations course, and are assigned to a unit with an approved mountain operations program are authorized to use the TTP and equipment on which they are current and qualified.

3.1.3. Climbers upgraded at the unit-level must receive an evaluation to be qualified as a mountain team member, mountain operator, and mountain leader (see paragraphs 3.2, 3.3, and

3.4). AFSs governed by AFMAN 10-3500V1, Air Force Special Warfare Training Program and AFMAN 10-3500V2, Air Force Special Warfare Standardization and Evaluation, will document evaluations on AF Form 1035. (T-1) AFSs governed by Department of the Air Force

Instruction (DAFI) 36-2670, Total Force Development will document evaluations on AF Form

803. (T-1)

3.1.4. Mountain operators and mountain leaders may perform unsupervised mountain operations commensurate with level of qualification. (T-1)

3.1.5. DAF Civil Service Climbers. DAF civilian climbers are identified as permanent DAF employees who were previously qualified as mountain operators or mountain leaders, or have extensive field experience with diverse exposure to a variety of mountain rescue, rope access, and climbing skills. DAF civilian climbers will maintain the mountain operator or mountain leader qualification and the same training currencies as those required for their military counterparts. (T-1)

3.1.6. Contracted Support. Commercial climbers contracted by the Regular Air Force, the Air

Force Reserve, and the Air National Guard who are not permanent government employees are not subject to the provisions of paragraph 3.1.3, unless stated in their contract. Contracting officers or acquisition functions will clearly state the requirement to comply with accepted safe mountain operations practices on all purchase orders and statements of work for contracted personnel. (T-1) Note: This requirement only applies to contracted personnel supporting mountain operations (e.g., trainers or instructors), not contracted courses.

3.2. Mountain Team Member Qualification. Mountain team members are capable of performing basic tasks required to safely operate in adverse terrain. Mountain team members will always be supervised by a mountain operator or mountain leader. (T-1) A climbers may be qualified as a mountain team member after completion of unit-level UGT, or upon graduation from one of the courses in Table 3.1.

AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023 15

Table 3.1. DoD Mountain Team Member Courses.

Service Course Location

DAF Pararescue Apprentice Course Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico

USMC USMC Summer Mountain Leaders Course Mountain Warfare Training Center, California

NSWC Maritime Cold Weather Course NAVSPCWAR Cold Weather Detachment, Alaska

USA Basic Military Mountaineering Course Northern Warfare Training Center, Alaska

USA Army Mountain Warfare School Camp Ethan Allen, Vermont

3.2.1. Unit-Level UGT. Units with a mountain operations program may upgrade personnel assigned to the unit who have not completed one of the courses in Table 3.1 UGT must be conducted or supervised by a mountain operator or mountain leader, meet critical task list requirements in Table 3.2, meet task, condition, standard requirements in AF/A3S Mountain

Team Member QTP, and culminate with a one-time SPOT evaluation. (T-1)

3.2.2. SPOT Evaluation. The climber will be evaluated on all items in paragraph 3.6.1 to the standard defined in AF/A3S Mountain Operator QTP. (T-1)

3.2.3. Documenting Training. UGT will be documented IAW DAFI 36-2670, AFS specific

CFETP, and/or AF/A3S approved QTP. (T-1)

3.2.4. Documenting Evaluations. AFSPECWAR personnel will document evaluations on AF

Form 1035, other AFSs will document evaluations on AF Form 803. (T-1)

16 AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023

Table 3.2. Mountain Team Member Critical Task List.

MOUNTAIN TEAM MEMBER

TASK # TASK DESCRIPTION

1-1 Environmental effects on operations in mountain environments

1-2 Environmental effects on operations in cold weather environments

1-3 Land search requirements

1-4 Tie classifications (knots, bends, and hitches)

1-5 Tie knots, bends, and hitches

1-6 Perform emergency medical operations in adverse terrain

1-7 Construct improvised litters

1-8 Construct improvised harnesses

1-9 Patient packaging for horizontal raise

1-10 Patient packaging for vertical raise

1-11 Select, use, and maintain climbing equipment and clothing/sustainment items

1-12 Perform mountain movement techniques

1-13 Perform search party duties

1-14 Perform rope management

1-15 Select routes

1-16 Construct natural anchors

1-17 Construct artificial anchors

1-18 Use climbing communications

1-19 Use belay systems

1-20 Perform rope ascent with friction hitches

1-21 Perform rope ascent with mechanical ascending devices

1-22 Perform rappel techniques

1-23 Knot bypass on-rappel procedures

1-24 Retrievable rappel system

1-25 Tandem (buddy) rappel

1-26 High-angle pick-off

1-27 Construct and use mechanical advantage systems

1-28 Perform low and medium-angle evacuation

1-29 Perform high-angle evacuation

1-30 Suspension traverse evacuation method (aerial ropeway suspension system)

1-31 Tree rescue and recovery

3.3. Mountain Operator Qualification. Mountain operators are proficient with the technical skills and tactical knowledge required to oversee mountain operations in all environments.

Mountain operators are the primary trainers for mountain operations and oversee UGT for the mountain team member and mountain operator qualifications. A mountain team member may be qualified as a mountain operator after completion of unit-level UGT, or upon graduation from a sister service certified course approved by the MMPM.

AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023 17

3.3.1. Unit-Level UGT. UGT must be conducted or supervised by a mountain operator or mountain leader, meet critical task list requirements in Table 3.3, meet task, condition, standard requirements in AF/A3S Mountain Operator QTP, and culminate with a one-time

SPOT evaluation. (T-1)

3.3.2. SPOT Evaluation. The evaluation is both skills and scenario based. The climber will be assigned an unsupervised role in a mountain evacuation scenario and be evaluated on all items in paragraphs 3.6.1 and 3.6.2 that pertain to the position the climber is assigned and to the standard defined in AF/A3S Mountain Operator QTP. (T-1)

3.3.3. Documenting Training. UGT will be documented IAW DAFI 36-2670, AFS specific

CFETP, and/or AF/A3S approved QTP. (T-1)

3.3.4. Documenting Evaluations. AFSPECWAR personnel will document evaluations on AF

Form 1035, other AFSs will document evaluations on AF Form 803. (T-1)

Table 3.3. Mountain Operator Critical Task List.

MOUNTAIN OPERATOR

TASK # TASK DESCRIPTION – BLOCK I

2-1 Environmental effects on operations in mountainous environments

2-2 Land search party requirements

2-3 Prepare search plans

2-4 Tie classifications (knots, bends, and hitches)

2-5 Tie knots, bends, and hitches

2-6 Construct improvised harnesses

2-7 Patient packaging for horizontal raise

2-8 Patient packaging for vertical raise

2-9 Select, use, and maintain climbing equipment and clothing/sustainment items

2-10 Perform search party duties

2-11 Perform rope management

2-12 Select routes

2-13 Construct natural anchors

2-14 Construct artificial anchors

2-15 Use climbing communications

2-16 Use belay systems

2-17 Perform lead protection placement utilizing aid climbing techniques

2-18 Perform lead protection placement utilizing free climbing techniques

2-19 Perform rope ascent with friction hitches

2-20 Perform rope ascent with mechanical ascending devices

2-21 Perform rappel techniques

2-22 Knot bypass on-rappel procedures

2-23 Retrievable rappel system

2-24 Tandem (buddy) rappel

2-25 High-angle pick-off

2-26 Construct and use mechanical advantage systems

18 AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023

2-27 Perform low and medium-angle evacuation

2-28 Perform high-angle evacuation

2-29 System knot bypass

2-30 Suspension traverse evacuation method (aerial ropeway suspension system)

2-31 Tree rescue and recovery

TASK # TASK DESCRIPTION – BLOCK II

2-32 Environmental effects on operations in cold weather and high-altitude environments

2-33 Terrain characteristics affecting travel in arctic and alpine environments

2-34 Emergency medical operations in cold weather and high-altitude environments

2-35 Avalanche causes

2-36 Avalanche hazard prediction methods

2-37 Avalanche survival actions

2-38 Avalanche rescue equipment requirements and techniques

2-39 Perform snow/alpine travel movement fundamentals

2-40 Perform skiing techniques

2-41 Perform snow shoeing techniques

2-42 Perform avalanche-prone terrain crossing

2-43 Perform avalanche rescue

2-44 Perform emergency medical operations in adverse terrain

2-45 Construct snow and ice anchors

2-46 Perform ice axe self-arrest and team-arrest

2-47 Perform glacier travel fundamentals wearing crampons

2-48 Perform crevasse rescue procedures

2-49 Place ice climbing protection

2-50 Lead an ice climb

3.4. Mountain Leader Qualification. Mountain leaders have practical experience in a variety of mountain environments in both summer and winter conditions. They have well-developed hazard evaluation, risk mitigation, and safe route-finding skills over all types of terrain and conditions.

Mountain leaders have the expertise to advise commanders on all aspects of mountain operations, particularly the preparation and leadership required to move personnel and equipment over technically difficult, hazardous, or exposed terrain. A mountain operator may be qualified as a mountain leader after successful completion of unit-level UGT.

3.4.1. Unit-Level UGT. UGT must be conducted or supervised by a mountain leader, meet critical task list requirements in Table 3.4, meet task, condition, standard requirements in

AF/A3S Mountain Leader QTP, and culminate with a one-time SPOT evaluation. (T-1)

3.4.2. SPOT Evaluation. The evaluation is scenario based and the climber’s leadership ability will be evaluated during crisis or deliberate mission planning, preparation, and execution of a casualty evacuation from snow, ice, or glaciated terrain to the standard defined in AF/A3S

Mountain Leader QTP. (T-1)

3.4.3. Documenting Training. UGT will be documented IAW DAFI 36-2670, AFS specific

CFETP, and/or AF/A3S approved QTP. (T-1)

AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023 19

3.4.4. Documenting Evaluations. AFSPECWAR personnel will document evaluations on AF

Form 1035, other AFSs will document evaluations on AF Form 803. (T-1)

Table 3.4. Mountain Leader Critical Task List.

MOUNTAIN LEADER

TASK # TASK DESCRIPTION – BLOCK I

3-1 Prepare search plans

3-2 Lead mission planning for a mountain operation

3-3 Supervise selection, use, and maintenance of climbing equipment, PPE, and sustainment items 3-4 Lead mountain movement through steep, exposed, or technical terrain

3-5 Supervise construction of natural anchors

3-6 Supervise construction of artificial anchors

3-7 Lead low and medium-angle evacuation

3-8 Lead high-angle evacuation

TASK # TASK DESCRIPTION – BLOCK II

3-9 Supervise selection, use, and maintenance of snow/ice equipment, PPE, and sustainment items 3-10 Lead movement through avalanche-prone terrain

3-11 Lead avalanche casualty rescue

3-12 Lead movement through glaciated terrain

3-13 Supervise construction of snow and ice anchors

3-14 Lead mission planning for a rescue operation in snow, ice, or glaciated technical terrain

3-15 Lead casualty evacuation in snow, ice, or glaciated terrain

3.5. Continuation Training and Frequency Requirements. Climbers will maintain the currency requirements associated with the climber’s qualification (see Table 3.5). (T-2) Note:

Combat Mission Ready (CMR) status is defined in AFMAN 10-3500V1, Table A2.1. Mountain operations currency is not required for CMR. Currency requirements in Table 3.5 fulfill

Mountaineering Principles Review, in AFMAN 10-3500V1.

3.5.1. Documentation. All currencies are documented on AF Form 1098, Special Task

Certification and Recurring Training or electronic system of record.

3.5.2. Maintaining and Regaining Currency. Mountain operators and mountain leaders maintaining currency do not require supervision. If currency has lapsed for more than 12 months climbers will not perform mountain operations unless supervised by a current mountain operator or mountain leader and must complete continuation training requirements in Table

3.5 associated with the respective qualification level prior to performing unsupervised mountain operations. (T-2) Note: Mountain team members, regardless of currency status, will always be supervised by a mountain operator or mountain leader. (T-2)

20 AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023

Table 3.5. Continuation Training.

Task Min Freq.

Mountain

Team Member

Mountain

Operator

Mountain

Leader

X = Currency requirement for associated qualification

* = Frequency is determined at the MAJCOM (24 months recommended)

Fundamental mountain skills 12 mos X X X

Adverse terrain evacuation 12 mos X X

Snow and ice knowledge refresher 12 mos X X

Snow and ice operations 24 mos * *

3.6. Continuation Training Task Definitions.

3.6.1. Fundamental Mountain Skills. Purpose: Ensure climbers maintain and are able to perform fundamental skills. Description: In unit or field conditions climbers perform the following skills. Reference AF/A3S Mountain Operations QTPs.

3.6.1.1. Tie knots, bends, and hitches.

3.6.1.2. Construct natural and artificial anchors.

3.6.1.3. Perform rope ascent with friction hitches and mechanical ascending devices.

3.6.1.4. Perform rappel techniques.

3.6.1.5. Knot bypass on-rappel procedures.

3.6.2. Adverse Terrain Evacuation. Purpose: Ensure climbers maintain and are able to perform rope rescue skills. Description: In unit or field conditions climbers perform the following skills.

Reference AF/A3S Mountain Operations QTPs.

3.6.2.1. Construct and use mechanical advantage systems.

3.6.2.2. Patient packaging for horizontal raise and vertical raise.

3.6.2.3. System knot bypass.

3.6.3. Snow and Ice Knowledge Refresher. Purpose: Ensure climbers maintain the required knowledge base to operate in avalanche prone and glaciated terrain. Description: In unit or field conditions climbers review or perform the following skills. Reference AF/A3S Mountain

Operations QTPs.

3.6.3.1. Environmental effects on operations in cold weather environment.

3.6.3.2. Emergency medical operations in adverse terrain.

3.6.3.3. Avalanche causes.

3.6.3.4. Avalanche hazard prediction methods.

3.6.3.5. Avalanche survival actions.

3.6.3.6. Avalanche rescue equipment requirements and techniques.

3.6.3.7. Glacier travel movement fundamentals.

3.6.3.8. Crevasse rescue procedures.

AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023 21

3.6.4. Snow and Ice Operations. Purpose: Ensure climbers maintain and are able to perform necessary skills to operate safely in alpine environments with avalanche hazards and glaciated terrain. Description: In field settings that offers alpine, snow, and glaciated terrain climbers perform the following skills. Reference AF/A3S Mountain Operations QTPs.

3.6.4.1. Perform snow/alpine travel movement fundamentals with skis or snow shoes.

3.6.4.2. Perform avalanche rescue.

3.6.4.3. Construct snow and ice anchors.

3.6.4.4. Perform ice axe self-arrest and team-arrest.

3.6.4.5. Perform glacier travel movement fundamentals wearing crampons.

3.6.4.6. Perform crevasse rescue procedures.

3.6.4.7. Place ice climbing protection.

3.7. Special Warfare Mission Support (SWMS) Personnel. SWMS personnel are defined as individuals augmenting mountain operations and do not require mountain operations qualifications or training currency to perform assigned duties (e.g., patient models, role players in training scenarios, etc.). SWMS personnel will:

3.7.1. Augment mountain operations only when a current annual medical examination is on file with the member’s assigned medical treatment facility and will report changes in medical conditions or duty limiting conditions that impact the ability to safely participate in mountain operations training. (T-2)

3.7.2. Be briefed on local environmental conditions and hazards. (T-2)

3.7.3. Only perform duties under the direct supervision of a qualified and current mountain operator or mountain leader. (T-2)

3.7.4. Trained on tasks commensurate with their required duties. Training will be documented on AF Form 623A, On-The-Job Training Record Continuation Sheet. (T-2)

3.7.5. Monitor their training to ensure proper record entries in OJT records or other

MAJCOM- or AFS-specific formats. (T-2)

3.8. Civilian Certifications. The civilian mountaineering community houses the preponderance of mountain operations expertise. As such, climbers are highly encouraged to pursue continuing education from the civilian mountaineering community.

22 AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023

Chapter 4

EQUIPMENT & INSPECTIONS

4.1. Mountain Operations Equipment and Accessories. The preponderance of mountain operations equipment research, testing, and development is performed in the civilian mountaineering community. With few exceptions (e.g., one-inch tubular webbing (national stock number (NSN) 8305-01-691-5682)) the majority of mountain operations equipment and accessories are available as commercial off-the-shelf. This manual addresses two categories of equipment:

4.1.1. Category I: Life-rated equipment. Category I is any piece of equipment required to provide a safe, controlled environment for a climber by satisfying the life support requirements of the intended operation (e.g., ropes, hardware used in rigging, etc.). Category I equipment will be used IAW manufacturer’s specifications and will meet DoD, International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA), European Committee for Standardization (CE), or

National Fire Prevention Agency (NFPA) standards for adverse terrain recovery operations.

(T-2)

4.1.2. Category II: Non-life rated equipment. Category II is any piece of equipment (e.g., snowshoes, packs, sleds, etc.) that aids operational capability but is not essential for life support.

4.1.3. Approved-for-Use-List (AUL). Category I equipment that does not meet standards in paragraph 4.1.1 will be authorized via the AFSPECWAR Mountain Operations AUL, which is approved by AF/A3S. (T-1) The AFSPECWAR Mountain Operations AUL will include:

item name/description, NSN or part/model number, and manufacturer. Note: Category I equipment that meets standards in paragraph 4.1.1 is approved for use, unless specifically directed otherwise, and does not require inclusion on the AUL.

4.1.4. Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E). MAJCOMs must approve all mountain operations equipment RDT&E. MAJCOMs will coordinate equipment RDT&E with the AMPM. (T-2)

4.2. Equipment Deviations. Using equipment that does not meet parameters in paragraph 4.1.1 is authorized when the tactical or operational need outweighs the risk, and a deliberate risk management assessment is accomplished. When training for situations that require less than a 10:1 static system safety factor, the training system will be backed up by a safety system that meets a

10:1 static system safety factor. (T-2)

4.3. Category I Equipment Maintenance and Inspections. This section outlines criteria for maintenance and inspection of Category I equipment required for mountain operations. See Air

Force Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (AFTTP) 3-3.GA, Guardian Angel Combat

Fundamentals and Air Force Handbook (AFH) 10-351, Pararescue Procedures for additional information.

4.3.1. At a minimum, units will maintain Category I equipment IAW the manufacturer’s instructions and this manual. (T-3)

AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023 23

4.3.2. Category I equipment will be inspected for serviceability prior to each use, pre-deployment, post-deployment, exercises, temporary duty (TDY), and when transitioning between force generation cycles. (T-3)

4.3.3. Team equipment. Maintain a locally devised record-of-use log to document all inspections, care, and use of mountain operations equipment. (T-3) This requirement may be accomplished electronically but it is highly recommended that the log be maintained in “hard-copy” format and kept with the equipment items (e.g., ropes, carabiners, descenders, etc.) or kits (climbing bag, high-angle bag, etc.). Refer to Training Circular (TC) 3-97.61, Military

Mountaineering, for an example rope log. All kits should have a list of contents and quantities attached in a conspicuous location. As a minimum, each log will contain:

4.3.3.1. Date placed into service. (T-3)

4.3.3.2. Local control number. (T-3)

4.3.3.3. Date of use/inspection date. (T-3)

4.3.3.4. Date of next inspection. (T-3)

4.3.3.5. Include manufacturer specific inspection requirements as applicable.

4.3.3.6. Inspector’s comments, as required.

4.3.3.7. Initials of inspector. (T-3)

4.3.4. Ropes. In addition to record of use log:

4.3.4.1. Record date of manufacture, date placed into service, and mandatory retirement date. (T-3)

4.3.4.2. Record unusual history such as falls or high degrees of tension. (T-3)

4.3.4.3. Ropes will be retired five years from the date placed into service or ten years from date of manufacture, whichever is first. (T-3)

4.3.4.4. Remove ropes from service after sustaining a severe fall (≥ a fall factor of 1.78), when they become excessively worn, frayed, or exceed the manufacturer’s recommended shelf or service life. (T-3)

4.3.5. Soft goods. Inspect webbing, cordellette, slings, daisy chains and harnesses as thoroughly as ropes. Unserviceable equipment will be marked and removed from service. (T-

3)

4.3.5.1. Record date of manufacture, date placed into service, and mandatory retirement date. (T-3)

4.3.5.2. Soft goods will be retired five years from the date placed into service or ten years from date of manufacture, whichever is first. (T-3)

4.3.6. Hardware. Climbing hardware includes but is not limited to carabiners, pulleys, stitch plates, mechanical ascenders and descenders, technical rock protection, snow pickets, ice screws, etc. Hardware will be removed from service if:

4.3.6.1. Dropped from greater than 10 feet onto a hard surface (concrete, asphalt, rocks, etc.). (Items dropped from greater than 10 feet onto a soft surface will be closely inspected for damage and functionality). (T-3)

24 AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023

4.3.6.2. Dropped from greater than 50 feet regardless of surface. (T-3)

4.3.6.3. Exposed to forces exceeding its intended use or rating. (T-3)

4.3.6.4. Not operating in like new condition. (T-3). WARNING: If a carabiner or other hardware serviceability is questionable, remove from service immediately and mark accordingly. (T-3)

AFMAN 10-3507 9 MAY 2023 25

Chapter 5

ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS & CONSIDERATIONS

5.1. Environmental Effects. Operations in adverse terrain (e.g., mountain, glacier, snow, ice, and avalanche environments)…