Marine Corps Techniques Publication MCTP 3-20G (Formerly MCWP 3-26) Air Reconnaissance 2 May 2016 Air reconnaissance supports the Marine air-ground task force's (MAGTF's) intelligence warfighting function because it provides critical intelligence that supports the MAGTF's operational planning process. The MAGTF commander uses air reconnaissance to gain intelligence that is vital to the shaping of the battlespace. This intelligence assists the commander in understanding the tactical situation, alerts him to new opportunities, and allows him to assess the effects of MAGTF operations on the threat. Through the proper use of manned and unmanned air reconnaissance assets, commanders within the MAGTF can maximize their forces' effectiveness by optimizing friendly strengths and exploiting the threat's critical vulnerabilities. This publication addresses basic air reconnaissance tactics, techniques, and procedures for the planning and execution of air reconnaissance operations. This publication provides commanders and their staffs, aircrews, unmanned aerial vehicle operators, and intelligence analysts with air reconnaissance operational principles and capabilities. This publication supersedes Fleet Marine Force Manual 5-10, Air Reconnaissance, dated 20 May 1991.