When using the 10:1 obstacle ratio, what does it pertain to?

The 10:1 obstacle ratio refers to the relationship between the height of obstacles and the distance from the landing zone (LZ) when planning air assault operations. Specifically, it indicates that for every one unit of vertical height of an obstacle, the aircraft should maintain a distance of ten units from that obstacle. This ratio helps ensure safe approaches and departures for aircraft by providing adequate clearance and minimizing the risk of collision with obstacles such as trees, buildings, or other terrain features. Understanding this ratio is crucial for pilots and mission planners to assess flight paths and make informed decisions during assaults or landings in potentially hazardous environments. This principle emphasizes the importance of distance in relation to vertical obstacles, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of air assault operations.