En route, crewmen perform last-minute check of their weapons. These machine guns are not used to replace combat aircraft strikes or as a primary source of fire support. They are mounted on the Huey's strictly for defense purposes. It is important for transport helicopters to have suppressive fire capabilities, especially if armed escort helicopters are not taking part in the operation.
Nearing the objective, the RVN troops study the terrain seeking signs of Viet Cong activity. Fighting a guerrilla-type war, the RVN must be able to locate, catch and destroy the enemy despite jungles, mountains, rivers, and swamps. To accomplish this they depend heavily on U.S. Army helicopter support.