Author Description

This study examines the current level of detailed integration in close air support (CAS) planning, with the focus on air component support of Army conventional forces, to determine if changes should be made to the current concept of operations for CAS. The results are based on interviews with numerous experienced CAS aviators with experience in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. Analyses of these interviews and current doctrine were compared with the CAS Concept of Operations (CONOPS) from recent combat operations in Iraq to determine needed changes. Results demonstrate that a theater CAS CONOPS should include assigning forward air controller (airborne) (FAC(A) missions to ground maneuver units early enough for liaison with the unit; that CAS planners should create a communications architecture to facilitate direct liaison between FAC(A) wings and supported ground units; and that assignment and distribution of FAC(A) missions could be decentralized to the wing level. All of these changes are in accordance with current joint and Air Force doctrine and would improve detailed integration in joint CAS.