Close Air Support (CAS)
Description
Air operations providing direct fire support to ground forces in close proximity to friendly troops.
Phases
- **Request Phase:** Ground unit requests CAS through TACP
- **Mission Planning Phase:** Aircraft tasked, briefed on target
- **Check-in Phase:** Aircraft arrives, contacts JTAC
- **Target Acquisition Phase:** JTAC talks aircraft onto target
- **Engagement Phase:** Weapons delivery
- **Assessment Phase:** BDA and re-attack if required
Tasks (7)
+ New TaskForward Air Controller (FAC) Coordination
Coordination between air assets and ground-based terminal attack controllers.
Target Marking and Designation
Methods to identify targets for attacking aircraft.
Gun Runs and Strafing
Aircraft cannon employment against ground targets.
Rocket/Missile Strikes on Tactical Targets
Employment of rockets and air-to-ground missiles against point targets.
Danger-Close Engagement
CAS delivery within minimum safe distances of friendly troops.
Troops-in-Contact (TIC) Response
Emergency CAS response to friendly units actively engaged with enemy.
Battle Damage Assessment (BDA)
Post-strike assessment of target destruction and effects.