Author Description

Joint publications list fixed-wing aircraft and Army tactical missile system (ATACMS) as the two preferred weapon systems for engaging time-sensitive targets (TSTs), but do not give specific considerations. This thesis comprehensively lists the capabilities and limitations of ATACMS, guided multiple-launch rocket system (GMLRS) Unitary, and fixed-wing aircraft in the six phases of the F2T2EA process: find, fix, track, target, engage, and assess. The Target Phase assessment includes deconfliction, effectiveness, responsiveness, range, accuracy, threat, and risk of employment factors. TST operations from the major combat operations of Operation Iraqi Freedom give a historical account of the performance of both weapon systems. A capabilities analysis of fixed-wing aircraft and Army rockets and missiles provides the foundation for an attack guidance matrix that helps TST planners choose the best weapon system for a given tactical scenario. Fixed-wing aircraft employing joint direct attack munition (JDAM), laser-guided bombs (LGBs) and cannon, can engage a much wider variety of targets and their sensors are useful in the other five phases. ATACMS and GMLRS Unitary are more survivable and have the potential to be more responsive. A joint TST process needs both weapon systems, but TST planners should expect fixed-wing aircraft to engage the majority of TSTs. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work. This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (ind