What does the maintenance phase of a quick smoke mission primarily focus on?

The maintenance phase of a quick smoke mission is primarily concerned with sustaining the smoke. This phase is essential for ensuring that the smoke screen remains effective for the duration of its intended use. During maintenance, personnel focus on maintaining the density and coverage of the smoke, which is crucial for providing continued concealment or obscuration for troops or equipment.

Sustaining the smoke involves monitoring environmental factors such as wind speed and direction that can affect smoke dispersion. It may also require the adjustment of smoke-producing munitions or additional rounds to reinforce the smoke cloud if it begins to dissipate. This phase is critical to maintain operational effectiveness, especially in situations where ongoing concealment is necessary for the safety and maneuverability of friendly forces.

Through effective maintenance, commanders can ensure that the smoke remains an asset throughout the tactical situation, allowing forces to operate with reduced visibility for enemy observation and targeting.