ATP-3-09-42 Fire Support for the Brigade Combat Team Download
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Augmenting Fire Support 1 March 2016 ATP 3-09.42 4-15 targets or from spot reports and targets of opportunity received during operations. The nomination can occur before or after the aircraft arrive at the contact point. TYPES OF TERMINAL ATTACK CONTROL 4-73. There are three types of terminal attack control (Types 1-3). The commander considers the situation and issues guidance to the JTAC based on recommendations from the staff and associated risks identified in the tactical risk assessment. The intent is to offer the lowest level supported commander, within the constraints established during risk assessment, the latitude to determine which types of terminal attack control best accomplish the mission. Type 1 Control 4-74. Use Type 1 control when the JTAC or forward air controller (airborne) requires control of individual attacks and the situation requires the JTAC or forward air controller (airborne) to visually acquire the attacking aircraft and visually acquire the target for each attack. Analysis of attacking aircraft geometry is required to reduce the risk of the attack affecting friendly forces. Language barriers when controlling multinational aircraft, lack of confidence in a particular platform, ability to operate in adverse weather, or aircrew capability are all examples where visual means of terminal attack control may be the method of choice. Type 2 Control 4-75. Use Type 2 control when the JTAC or forward air controller (airborne) requires control of individual attacks and is unable to visually acquire the attacking aircraft at weapons release or is unable to visually acquire the target. Examples of when Type 2 control may be applicable are night, adverse weather, and high altitude or standoff weapons employment. Successful attacks depend on timely and accurate targeting data that may be provided by another source (such as a JFO, a scout, FIST, unmanned aircraft system, or special operations forces, or other assets with accurate real time targeting information). There are three key considerations for employing Type 2 control: Aircraft navigation or weapons system accuracy if employing unguided munitions. Time of flight for standoff weapons incapable of receiving in-flight targeting updates. Availability of digital or data link systems capable of displaying aircraft track and sensor point of interest. 4-76. When employing unguided munitions using Type 2 control, consideration must be given to host aircraft navigation and weapons system accuracy. Inaccurate navigation or weapon systems can result in large miss distances and possible collateral damage. 4-77. Weapon time of flight will be a factor relative to movement of enemy targets and friendly forces when employing standoff weapons incapable of receiving in-flight targeting updates. Detailed planning and preparation by both the JTAC and the aircrew are required to identify situations and locations conducive to standoff weapons attacks, and to address flight profile and deconfliction (aircraft, weaponry, and terrain) considerations. Digital or data link systems capable of displaying aircraft track and sensor point-of-interest significantly enhance situational awareness and the effectiveness of terminal attack control. Type 3 Control 4-78. Type 3 control is used when the JTAC or forward air controller (airborne) requires the ability to provide clearance for multiple attacks within a single engagement subject to specific attack restrictions. Type 3 control does not require the JTAC to visually acquire the aircraft or the target; however, all targeting data must be coordinated through the BCT or other supported commander’s staff. 4-79. During Type 3 control JTACs provide attacking aircraft targeting restrictions (such as time, geographic boundaries, final attack heading, and specific target set), and then grant a broad weapons release clearance. The JTAC will monitor radio transmissions and other available digital information to maintain control of the engagement. The JTAC maintains abort authority. Observers may provide targeting