From a forward position, which entity directs the action of combat aircraft engaged in CAS and other offensive air operations?

From a forward position, which entity directs the action of combat aircraft engaged in CAS and other offensive air operations?

• A. JFO
• B. JTAC
• C. AAGS
• D. Theater Air Control System

Answer: (B)

Joint Terminal Attack Controller is the person forward who directs combat aircraft in CAS and other offensive air operations. A JTAC is trained to plan, coordinate, and control air strikes from a forward position, issuing the terminal attack control instructions and, when appropriate, authorizing release of weapons (cleared hot) while ensuring positive control and deconfliction with ground forces and fires. The JFO operates forward to observe and request fires, but the actual direction and control of air actions come from a JTAC. The Theater Air Control System is the broader network that enables coordination among sensors, aircraft, and ground forces; it provides the framework, not the single forward controller directing the mission. AAGS isn’t the contemporary term for this role.

Joint Terminal Attack Controller is the person forward who directs combat aircraft in CAS and other offensive air operations. A JTAC is trained to plan, coordinate, and control air strikes from a forward position, issuing the terminal attack control instructions and, when appropriate, authorizing release of weapons (cleared hot) while ensuring positive control and deconfliction with ground forces and fires. The JFO operates forward to observe and request fires, but the actual direction and control of air actions come from a JTAC. The Theater Air Control System is the broader network that enables coordination among sensors, aircraft, and ground forces; it provides the framework, not the single forward controller directing the mission. AAGS isn’t the contemporary term for this role.