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the basic infrastructure of the AOC, and
•Develops the prioritized air
drive the planning and execution process.
objectives, air tasks, and measures of merit.
(a) Strategy Division. Although
•Provides input to the
located in the AOC and reporting to the
development of an ISR plan for the JTF.
AOC director in order to maintain
continuity with AOC processes, the
The strategy division is
strategy division has a strong bond and
normally comprised of two teams: strategy
special relationship with the COMAFFOR/
plans and operational assessment. Before
JFACC. This division develops, refines,
the start of operations, the strategy plans
disseminates, and assesses the progress of
team develops a proposed air and space
the JFACC’s air and space strategy,
strategy, air and space courses of action,
concentrating on long-range planning of air
and the JASOP. After the start of
and space operations for theater activities.
operations, they modify the JASOP and
The strategy division should not become
provide guidance to the combat plans
mired in the detailed, day-to-day ATO
division and other AOC elements as
production or execution. Representatives
necessary. In some cases there will not be
from a range of functional areas, such as
a requirement for daily guidance from the
operations, intelligence, communications,
strategy division. Rather, the dissem-
logistics, and space are full-time members
ination of guidance is event driven and
of the division. The strategy division has
would probably occur as the end of a
the following responsibilities:
planned phase approaches, with a change
in JFACC or JFC guidance or with a
significant shift in the combat situation.
•Develops the JFACC Air and
The operational assessment team assesses
Space Estimate of the Situation. The
the progress of air and space operations at
division will normally use the JFC’s
the operational or campaign level. They
strategic appreciation to develop the
assess the progress of each phase toward
estimate.
accomplishment of the JFACC’s objectives
and tasks based on the approved measures
•Serves as the JFACC’s focal
of merit for each task and objective. The
point for overall development and
information this team provides allows the
coordination of the Joint Air and Space
JFACC and the strategy plans team to
Operations Plan (JASOP) in support of the
address the air and space strategy.
JFC’s theater campaign.
Operational assessment addresses the
overall achievement of the desired air and
•Develops the joint air and
space objectives; it is not limited to battle
space strategy and assesses its support of
damage assessment (BDA).
the theater campaign.
(b) Combat Plans Division.
•Serves as the primary liaison
The combat plans division is responsible for
with the JFC planners.
the near-term air and space operations
planning function of the AOC. This division
•Monitors and assesses the
develops detailed plans for the application
progress of the air phases and provides
of air and space resources based on JFACC
overall operational level CA assessment
approved guidance received from the
with respect to the air and space objectives.
strategy division. These plans include the
near-term guidance, allocation, and tasking
•Develops alternative contin-
instructions for assigned and attached
gency plans and courses of action.
forces. This is accomplished within the air
III-10
and space planning and execution process
•Develops the air defense
through the preparation of ATOs. Combat
procedures for C2 of an integrated air
plans transmits the ATO to combat
defense system.
operations for execution. Generally, combat
plans works the two ATO periods beyond
•Develops the ATO shell for
the current ATO. The combat plans division
CTAPS or the follow-on to CTAPS, the
has the following responsibilities:
Theater Battle Management Core System
(TBMCS).
•Develops CA methods tied to
ISR, C2 plans, and ATOs to achieve JFC
The ATO/ACO production team
objectives.
receives the ATO shell (a detailed list of
missions, forces, and timing) from the
•Determines the optimal com-
MAAP team and along with air mobility
bination of target, platform, weapon, and
requirement's input from the air mobility
timing for missions included in the ATO.
division refines the ATO in the TBMCS. In
addition, they integrate the ACO developed
•Ensures air and space tasking
by the MAAP team with the ATO. The
supports the overall JTF campaign.
ATO/ACO production team has the
following responsibilities:
•Produces and disseminates an
operationally and tactically sound ATO.
•Builds mission packages that
achieve campaign objectives.
•Generates SPINS and the daily
ACO or ACO updates.
•Integrates other components’
direct support sorties into the ATO.
The combat plans division is
comprised of two teams: MAAP and ATO/
•Transmits the ATO/ACO to all
ACO production. The MAAP team uses the
required users once they are completed.
JFC and JFACC’s guidance, the authorized
target list, optimal weapons selections, and
•Transfers responsibilities for
asset availability to produce a timed-phased
the completed ATO/ACO to the combat
road map for operations or MAAP. The
operations division.
MAAP team works closely with each
component liaison and combat operations
(c) Combat Operations Division
division to ensure component concerns are
(Combat Ops). Combat ops is responsible
addressed and operational objectives are
for executing the current ATO. Combat ops
efficiently achieved. The MAAP team has
analyzes, prioritizes, and, if necessary,
the following responsibilities:
makes recommendations to the JFACC (or
designated representative) to redirect
•Builds and maintain the Joint
assets. ACA and AADC representatives
Integrated Prioritized Target List (JIPTL).
along with component LNO staffs are part
of this decision-making process. Combat
•Constructs the MAAP and
ops has the following responsibilities:
briefs the developed MAAP to the JFACC
for approval.
•Executes the current ATO
through constant monitoring of air
•Receives, prioritizes, and
missions under control of the TACS.
deconflicts user requests for airspace
pertaining to the ATOs in planning and
•Evaluates ISR feedback.
construct the daily ACO.
III-11
•Adjusts the ATO as necessary
control authority, the theater air mobility
in response to battlespace dynamics (for
operations control center (AMOCC), if
example, assigned targets are no longer
established, and the AMC tanker/airlift
valid, HPTs are detected, enemy action
control center (TACC) as required to derive
threatens friendly forces).
apportionment guidance, compute alloca-
tion, and to collect requirements. As
•Coordinates emergency/im-
directed by the DIRMOBFOR, the air
mediate air support requests.
mobility division will task attached theater
air mobility forces through wing and unit
•Monitors and recommends
CPs when those forces operate from
changes to defensive operations.
permanent home bases or WOC if forward
•Publishes changes to the ACO.
deployed. Under the direction of the
DIRMOBFOR, the air mobility division has
•Provides feedback on status of
the following responsibilities:
the current ATO.
•Integrates and directs the
The combat ops is normally
execution of theater and United States
comprised of two teams: offensive
Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM)-
operations and defensive operations. The
assigned mobility forces operating in the
offensive operations team is responsible for
AOR/JOA and in support of the JFC’s
executing the ATO in accordance with
requirements/objectives.
commanders’ guidance and in reaction to
the current battlespace situation for all
•Maintains the flow of theater
offensive missions. The offensive opera-
and USTRANSCOM-assigned air mobility
tions team monitors the battlespace and
assets in support of JFC objectives.
recommends changes to the ATO based on
•Coordinates air mobility
unforeseen opportunities and challenges.
support for mobility requirements
The defensive operations team is
identified and validated by the JFC
responsible for execution of the ATO in
requirements and movement authority as
accordance with commanders’ guidance
appropriate.
and in reaction to the current battlespace
situation for all defensive missions. The
•Participates in the air and
defensive operations team monitors the
space planning and execution process and
battlespace and recommends changes to
coordinates with the AOC director to ensure
the ATO based on unforeseen oppor-
the air mobility mission is incorporated in
tunities and challenges.
the ATO.
(d) Air Mobility Division. The
•Identifies ISR requirements in
director of mobility forces (DIRMOBFOR)
support of the air mobility mission.
is responsible for integrating the total air
mobility effort for the JFACC. The
•Ensures air mobility missions
DIRMOBFOR provides direction to the air
are visible in the Air Mobility Command
mobility division to execute the air mobility
(AMC) standard C2 system and reflected
mission. The air mobility division will plan,
in the ATO/ACO.
coordinate, task, and execute the air
mobility mission. The air mobility division
The air mobility division is
is located in the AOC. The AOC director
comprised of four elements: air mobility
ensures the air mobility division works as
control team
(AMCT); ALCT, aerial
an effective division of the AOC in the air
refueling control team (ARCT), and the air
and space planning and execution process.
mobility element (AME). The AMCT serves
The air mobility division coordinates with
as the DIRMOBFOR’s centralized source of
the JFC’s movement requirements and
AMC control and communications during
III-12
mission execution. The DIRMOBFOR uses
(6) Specialty Teams. The specialty
the AMCT to direct, or redirect as required,
teams provide an AOC with diverse
air mobility forces in concert with other air
capabilities to help orchestrate theater air
and space forces to respond to requirement
power. Many of these capabilities are
changes, higher priorities, or immediate
provided to the AOC from agencies external
execution limitations. The AMCT decon-
to the AOC organization. It is crucial to
flicts all air mobility operations into, out
the success of the AOC that these
of, and within the area of operations. The
capabilities be interwoven into the air and
AMCT maintains execution process and
space planning and execution process. The
communications connectivity for tasking,
AOC incorporates certain functional
coordination, and flight following with the
leaders to help ensure the best use of like
AOC combat operations division, subord-
assets. An information warfare (IW)
inate air mobility units, and mission forces.
support team, for instance, distributes its
The ALCT brings theater airlift functional
personnel throughout the AOC under the
expertise from the theater organizations to
direction of core team leaders. The
plan, coordinate, manage, and execute
specialty team leader ensures team
theater airlift operations in the AOR/JOA
members are used efficiently and
for the JFACC. USTRANSCOM/AMC may
effectively throughout the AOC. The
augment the ALCT with theater airlift
following are examples of specialty teams:
expertise. These two sources of airlift
(a) Component Liaisons. These
expertise integrate into a single ALCT
liaisons work for their respective
within the air mobility division. The ARCT
component commanders and work with the
coordinates aerial refueling planning,
JFACC and staff. Each component
tasking, and scheduling to support combat
normally provides liaison elements (BCD,
air operations or to support a strategic
SOLE, NALE, MARLO, etc.) that work
airbridge within the AOR/JOA. The AME
within the JAOC. These liaison elements
deploys to the theater as an extension of
consist of experienced warfare specialists
the AMC TACC. The AME is requested
who provide component planning and
when a DIRMOBFOR is established and
tasking expertise and coordination
USTRANSCOM-assigned air mobility
capabilities. They help integrate and
aircraft are employed in support of a
coordinate their component’s participation
contingency. The DIRMOBFOR is respons-
in joint air operations.
ible for integrating the expertise of the
theater air mobility planners with the
(b) Intelligence. Normally the
expertise of the AME, to fulfill the JFACC’s
intelligence team will be distributed to the
guidance to meet the JFC’s objectives. The
core teams in order to provide insight into
AME provides air mobility integration and
the capabilities of intelligence support,
coordination of USTRANSCOM-assigned
assist the core teams in articulating
air mobility forces. The AME receives
intelligence requirements, and expedite
direction from the DIRMOBFOR and is the
the delivery of intelligence products.
primary team for providing coordination
with the TACC. Direct delivery strategic
(c) ISR. The ISR team is the
air mobility missions, if required, are
JAOC’s single point for the integration,
coordinated through the air mobility
planning, tasking, and execution of ISR
division and tasked by the AMC TACC.
requirements and assets. The JAOC ISR
The TACC commander maintains OPCON
team is responsible for coordinating,
of direct delivery missions during
tasking, executing and dynamically
execution. The AME ensures the
retasking the JFC’s ISR requirements. The
integration of strategic air mobility
JFACC uses the ISR to integrate the
missions with theater air and space
recognized air, ground, and maritime
operations planning.
pictures and disseminates this common
III-13
operational picture (COP) for theater-wide
b. Separate Agencies (Subordinate to
use.
the AOC).
(d) Area Air Defense (AAD).
(1) WOC. The WOC is a wing com-
The JFACC may also be designated as the
mander’s C2 element. It can include a CP,
AADC. The AAD team integrates air
command section, battlestaff, and other
defense operation of all defense systems to
planning and support personnel. The WOC
include all aspects of TMD.
is subordinate to the JAOC and functions
as the operations center for units assigned/
(e) IW.
The IW team is
attached to the wing for operations. As
charged with coordinating the offensive
required, the WOC is capable of connecting
and defensive aspects of counter-
with the JAOC, CRC, and ASOC through
information to include special programs
voice and data communications. The WOC
and integrating IW efforts with the JASOP.
is responsible for translating tasks and
The IW team will also act as the JFACC’s
missions.
focal point for the integration of JFACC
(2) CRC. The CRC is directly
capabilities with the IW portion of the
subordinate to the JAOC and is the primary
JFC’s campaign plan.
radar element charged with decentralized
execution of the air defense and airspace
(f) Airspace Management. The
control functions. Within its AOR, the CRC
JFACC may also be designated as the ACA.
directs region or sector air defense and
The airspace management team coordinates
provides aircraft control and monitoring for
and integrates use of the airspace control
offensive and defensive missions. The CRC
area. They help develop broad policies and
is capable of conducting airspace control,
procedures for airspace control and for
weapons control, surveillance, and aircraft
coordination among units within the JOA.
identification. When directed by the JAOC,
They are key to the development and
the CRC establishes liaison with allies and
promulgation of an ACP and the daily ACO.
other components to exchange airspace
They must also provide the flexibility
management and air defense data from C2
needed within the airspace control system
systems established in the tactical digital
to meet contingency situations that
information link
(TADIL) interface.
necessitate rapid employment of forces.
Through the use of TADILs A/B/J and other
links, the CRC is capable of receiving data
(g) Weather. The weather
link information from the various C2
team provides climatological data for long-
elements in the TADIL interface. If
term planning and reports significant
necessary, the CRC can temporarily
weather with emphasis on target weather
assume limited duties performed by the
affecting ATO execution.
JAOC.
(7) Support Teams. Support teams
(3) CRE. The CRE is a mobile radar
provide direct support to the AOC and to
unit and is normally subordinate to the
operational echelons above and below the
CRC. It is capable of extending the CRC’s
AOC (headquarters and tactical units).
radar coverage and communications range
Team chiefs report to the appropriate level
within the CRC’s AOR. The CRE is capable
within the AOC lead support teams. They
of providing early warning, surveillance,
perform their tasks allowing the core and
weapons control and identification. If
specialty teams to focus on the air and space
necessary, the CRE is capable of assuming
planning and execution process. Examples
some CRC functions and can report directly
of support teams are intelligence unit
to the JAOC.
support, systems administration, combat
reports, information management,
(4) AWACS. The AWACS is an air-
communications center, and supply.
borne radar control element of the TACS
III-14
and is normally one of the first battle
ISR/UAVs, theater airlift, SEAD, and
management assets to arrive in the theater
CSAR. The TACP provides the primary
of operations. It is normally tasked with
terminal attack control of CAS in support
establishing the initial command, control,
of ground forces. TACPs and forward air
communications, and computers
(C4)
controllers (FACs) coordinate airspace and
system capability and for providing early
deconflict the aircraft with Army fire
warning, surveillance, battle management,
support to prevent fratricide. TACPs are
weapons control functions and combat
directly subordinate to the ASOC. TACPs
identification (ID). It has the ability to
may employ ETACs at company/team level.
detect and control aircraft below and
beyond the coverage of ground-based C2.
(a) ALO. An ALO is an aeronau-
During initial operations, or as a show of
tically rated officer aligned with a ground
force, the AWACS can perform airborne
maneuver unit who functions as the
battle management functions for the JAOC
primary advisor to the ground commander
and other friendly forces. In support of
on the capabilities and limitations of air and
offensive operations, the AWACS can
space power.
provide surveillance and warning to
friendly forces operating well forward of the
(b) Terminal Attack Controller.
main force. Once the theater TACS is
The terminal attack controller is a member
mature, the AWACS is normally tasked to
of the TACP who, from a forward ground
support the CRC.
or airborne position, controls aircraft in
CAS of ground forces. Terminal attack
(5) ASOC. The ASOC plans,
controllers have the authority to direct
coordinates, and directs aerospace support
aircraft delivering ordnance to a specific
for land forces, normally at corps level and
target cleared by the ground commander.
below. It is directly subordinate to the
Only specially trained and certified
JAOC and is responsible for the integration
individuals are authorized to perform this
of aerospace operations within its assigned
duty. The primary Air Force terminal
corps sector to include CAS, AI, Joint
attack controllers are known as ETACs.
Surveillance Target Attack Radar System
(Joint STARS), theater airlift, ISR/UAVs,
(7) Forward
Air
Controller
SEAD and CSAR. The ASOC can be
(Airborne) FAC(A). The FAC(A) is an air-
configured for rapid deployment. The
borne extension of the TACP and has the
ASOC director, normally the corps ALO,
authority to direct aircraft delivering
exercises OPCON of all subordinate
ordnance to a specific target cleared by the
TACPs. The ASOC also provides some
ground commander. The FAC(A) provides
logistical and administrative support to the
coordination and final control for CAS
TACPs under its OPCON. ASOC equip-
missions as well as locating, identifying,
ment includes satellite communications
and marking ground targets. The FAC(A)
(SATCOM), microwave radio sets, radios,
provides extra flexibility on the battlefield
and CTAPS/TBMCS terminals.
by providing rapid coordination and
(6) TACP. The TACP is the
execution of air operations.
principal Air Force liaison element (AFLE)
collocated with Army maneuver units from
(8) ABCCC. The ABCCC provides
battalion through corps. The primary
threat, intelligence, and target updates to
TACP mission is to advise ground
aircrews and radio relay to ground-based
commanders on the capabilities and
and other airborne C2 elements. It can
limitations of aerospace power. The TACP
provide battle management of airborne
assists the land commander in planning,
assets operating beyond the normal
requesting, and coordinating aerospace
communications coverage of ground-based
support, to include CAS, AI, Joint STARS,
command and control elements. The
III-15
ABCCC can support the air campaign as an
Force units in support of joint air
airborne extension of the JAOC or the
operations when the COMAFFOR is not the
ASOC and, as a backup, can temporarily
JFACC. Normally, the AFLE is composed
assume their functions. The ABCCC is a
of personnel and equipment from a
highly capable C2 platform with extensive
numbered Air Force staff and component
communications capabilities.
organizations. AFLE manning is based on
a cadre concept with personnel selected for
(9) Joint STARS. Joint STARS is
their battle management expertise and a
an integrated Army-Air Force command
knowledge of C2 concepts and procedures.
and control battle management (C2BM)
Additional personnel augment the cadre
surveillance, target detection, and tracking
who are specialist knowledgeable in the
platform. On-board battle managers
capabilities and tactics of the aircraft,
provide direction based on data collected
intelligence, or weapons systems being
by the Joint STARS sensors. This data is
employed. The AFLE can be tailored to
also used to build a common tactical
perform a variety of missions and
picture. Joint STARS detects, locates, and
management functions to match the
tracks slow-moving ground targets and
contingency or operation.
rotating antennas and has a limited
capability to detect, locate, and track
d. Communications and Computers.
helicopters. It provides air and ground
commanders with situation development,
(1) TBMCS. TBMCS is the primary
targeting, attack planning, and limited post
C2 tool for theater integration of air assets.
attack assessment information. Its C3 sup-
TBMCS is used to organize intelligence,
ports deep attack operations planning.
build and disseminate the ATO/ACO,
Joint STARS data is also transmitted to
monitor and control the ATO/ACO
airborne and ground elements of the TACS
execution, track progress of the air war, and
capable of receiving and processing the
to control all air activity under the JFACC.
J-Series messages using Joint Tactical
TBMCS incorporates the former CTAPS,
Information Distribution System (JTIDS)
Wing Command and Control System
Link 16 and to ground stations via the
(WCCS), and Combat Intelligence System
surveillance control data link (SCDL).
(CIS) functionality and will be interoperable
with the Global Command and Control
(10) Tactical Airlift Control Element
System (GCCS).
(TALCE). The TALCE is a mobile C2 unit
deployed to support strategic and theater
(2) Theater Deployable Communi-
air mobility operations. When deployed
cations (TDC). TDC provide deployed base
specifically to support air mobility
communications infrastructure and the
operations, the TALCE may be attached to
connectivity to the Defense Information
the command of a geographic combatant
Infrastructure (DII) for the combat air
commander as an element of the TACS and
forces. The system consists of Lightweight
is subordinate to the JAOC air mobility
Multiband Satellite Terminals (LMST) and
division. Because the TALCE can be
modular communication packages. TDC
employed by both strategic and theater
augments and enhances services provided
forces, its command relationships and
by legacy ground mobile forces (GMF) and
control authority must be clearly stated
Tri-Service Tactical Communications
and understood.
Program (TRI-TAC) systems.
c. Liaisons.
(3) Global Broadcast System (GBS).
AFLE. AFLEs provide interface
GBS provides high speed, high volume one-
between the COMAFFOR and the JFACC
way information flow to units in garrison,
for coordinating and synchronizing Air
deployed, in the field, or on the move. The
III-16
GBS will be incorporated into, but will not
package designed to support operations in
replace, existing military satellite
excess of 1000 sorties per day for Phase-
communications (MILSATCOM). It pro-
III. These communication packages support
vides the capability to quickly distribute
message switching, telephone, data
large information products such as
communications, SATCOM, troposcatter,
imagery, weather, intelligence, and ATOs.
and HF radio systems for theater
communications.
(4) Initial Communications Pack-
ages. The major commands (MAJCOMs)
(7) Data Links. Data Links sup-
use various initial communications
ported in theater include TADIL-A,
packages such as the Wing Initial
TADIL-B, TADIL-C, TADIL-J, Army
Communications Packages (WICP) in Air
Tactical Data Link-1 (ATDL-1), and Ground
Combat Command, the Mobility Initial
Based Data Link (GBDL).
Communications Kit
(MICK) in Air
Mobility Command, and the Pacific Air
(8) Tactical Air Direction (TAD)
Forces (PACAF) Initial Communications
Net. TAD is a (UHF or VHF) net used by
Package (PICP). These packages include
TACPs and ASOCs for directing and
SATCOM, high frequency (HF), ultra high
controlling aircraft in air support missions.
frequency (UHF), very high frequency
(VHF), switchboard, message distribution
6. Conclusion
terminal, and land mobile radio systems to
support individual wing operations in
theater.
Air Force contributions to the TAGS are
threefold: first, gains control of the air and
(5) Air Force Air Request Net
space environment and conducts other
(AFARN). AFARN is an HF network used
missions and support activities throughout
by TACPs and the ASOC for requesting and
the theater for the JTF as a whole; second,
coordinating CAS operations.
plans, coordinates, and controls air
missions to achieve JFC assigned air
(6) Air Operations Center Com-
operations objectives; and third, produces
munication Package. Air operations center
C4 systems that enable the control of
communication package consists of three
assets. By exchanging liaison elements
packages to support three separate phases
with other components, the COMAFFOR
of operations: a quick response package
can provide a comprehensive and unified
designed to support a 300 sorties per day
air operation. Effective liaison is the key
during Phase-I; a limited response package
to planning and coordinating TAGS
is designed to support up to 1000 sorties
activities.
per day in Phase-II; and a theater response
III-17
Chapter IV
NAVAL COMPONENT
“Naval forces are a key component of our armed forces’ forward presence operations
and make a critical contribution during the transition from crisis to conflict.
Forward-deployed naval forces are often the critical operational linkage between
peacetime operations and the initial requirements of a developing crisis or major
regional contingency.”
Forward...from the Sea
1. Background
Although naval presence includes a
wide range of forward-deployed Navy and
Marine Corps units afloat and ashore, the
This chapter provides a general
basic “building blocks” remain the carrier
understanding of the roles that naval forces
battle group
(CVBG), comprising the
can accomplish in the JFC’s campaign, the
carrier (CV) and its embarked carrier air
doctrinal tools currently in use, and the C2
wing (CVW) and the amphibious ready
systems used to apply naval air power to
groups (ARGs) with embarked Marine
the JFC’s mission.
expeditionary units-special operations
capable (MEU SOC). Using the building-
As a provider of resources to the TAGS,
block approach, US naval forces can be
naval forces provide strike aircraft to
“tailored” with specific capabilities. The
attack targets as directed by the JFC.
resulting naval expeditionary force,
Carrier- and land-based aircraft are
conceptually built around fleet operational
equipped and trained to perform all types
forces and forward-deployed Marine air-
of air-to-ground missions, including CAS
ground task forces (MAGTFs), can provide
and AI. Naval forces can also fire cruise
a highly flexible force for a wide range of
missiles from surface and subsurface
missions, including long-range strike
platforms in support of the JFC’s mission
operations and early forcible entry to
objectives.
facilitate or enable the arrival of follow-on
forces. The unique capabilities of naval
2. Mission
expeditionary forces operating from a
highly mobile “sea base” provides the NCA
The primary mission of the US Navy is
freedom from political encumbrances that
to conduct prompt and sustained combat
may inhibit or otherwise limit the scope of
operations from the sea in support of
land-based operations.
national policy. The basic function of naval
forces is to promote and defend our
3. Component Operations
national interests by maintaining maritime
superiority, contributing to regional
Naval forces can provide the theater
stability, conducting operations on and
commander a “tailored” expeditionary
from the sea, seizing or defending advanced
force package from among the following:
naval bases, and conducting such land
aircraft carriers and their associated air
operations as may be essential to the
wings, submarines, amphibious ships with
prosecution of naval campaigns. Naval
embarked Marines, maritime patrol
forces accomplish these functions by
aircraft, surface combatants, mine warfare
conducting deterrence operations,
forces, and Navy special warfare forces
maintaining a forward deployed presence,
(NSWF). Naval forces, including both
and exercising a robust sealift capability.
carrier-based air and associated
IV-1
amphibious land combat elements,
synergy of sea, ground, and air operations;
maneuver from the sea to dominate littoral
EW operations; deception and ruses;
areas. They possess the mobility and
psychological operations (PSYOP); and
flexibility to mass strength against an
special warfare operations. Taking the
enemy that cannot defend adequately
fight to the enemy has always been one of
everywhere. Naval forces provide an
our nation’s primary objectives in war. Even
economy-of-force tool by forcing the enemy
if no offensive action is planned, naval
to be prepared to defend long coastal areas,
forces can be used as a credible show of
thus weakening the enemy at the intended
force. This can influence a potential
focus of effort. Carrier and cruise missile
adversary’s actions by providing
firepower can also operate independently
unequivocal evidence that a combat-ready
or in conjunction with other services’ air
force stands poised to inflict significant
assets to provide quick interdiction or
damage to the nation’s infrastructure and
retaliatory strike capability. Naval
armed forces.
expeditionary forces provide the JFC C3;
battlespace dominance; power projection;
c. Force Sustainment. Successful
and force sustainment.
global response to contingencies depends
upon the ability to project and sustain US
a. Battlespace Dominance. Battle-
forces in a theater of operations.
space dominance consists of zones of
Integrated support resources in the form
superiority surrounding one or more units
or even the entire force. Zones of
of fleet-based sustainment and strategic
superiority are used as a base of operations
assets provide naval expeditionary, joint,
from which the force protects itself and
and multinational forces the ability to
operate wherever and whenever our
projects power. The force maintains
national interests demand. Logistic support
superiority by detecting, identifying,
targeting, and neutralizing anything hostile
provides assured delivery of the materiel
that enters or passes through the zones.
required for US forces to remain on station,
Naval forces establish multiple zones of
combat ready, for as long as necessary.
superiority as necessary for specific task
4. Planning
forces separated from the main force. Based
on the capabilities of sensor and weapon
a. Naval operation planning focuses on
systems, these zones can reach out for
delivering the maximum impact from naval
hundreds of nautical miles. The protective
force capabilities to achieve operational and
zones of superiority around the naval force
strategic objectives. When a JTF is
move with the force and can be extended
established, the JFC normally assigns the
to cover entities such as convoys,
senior Navy commander as the maritime or
amphibious groups and land masses, forces
naval component commander. The JFC
moving ashore, and protection of those
may chose to appoint a joint force maritime
forces ashore as they establish their own
component commander (JFMCC) as a
defensive zones. Theater commanders may
functional
component commander
direct naval forces to conduct an
responsible for preparing naval OPLANs
independent mission if that force is capable
and directing the actions of subordinate
of dominating the battlespace of the region
commanders. Subordinate naval com-
concerned. Battlespace dominance applies
manders, down to the lowest unit
to both war and MOOTW.
commander, would then develop plans
b. Power Projection. Power projection
based on their own situational awareness
is the use of supporting arms to apply high
and their superior’s objectives. Familiarity
intensity, concentrated offensive power at
with operational plans is essential to unit
the time and location of the nation’s
readiness, enabling deployed naval forces
choosing. Supporting arms include, but are
to adapt quickly from a ready force to a
not limited to, varieties of firepower; the
combatant force.
IV-2
b. Plans supporting the combatant
intent. The OTC retains the ability to
commander are the basic tool for
modify directives by using supplemental
coordination of naval actions at the
directives or orders. The OPTASK
operational or tactical level. Like the
message provides the same elements as the
governing OPORD, the naval plan tests for
operation plan: situation/mission/execu-
adequacy, feasibility, and acceptability.
tion/administration/C2 necessary for
These attributes are measured in the
centralized planning and decentralized
context of the Navy and Marine tactics and
execution in the strategic and operational
procedures.
Naval staffs can best
planning systems. If the commander’s
determine whether subordinate plans can
estimate of the situation requires changes
accomplish the mission and be executed
to the OPORD, an OPGEN, an OPTASK, a
with available resources. Naval component
fragmentary order (FRAGORDER), or
commanders may also advise the supported
supplements to the OPGEN is used.
unified commander by evaluating the
selected course of action. They may advise
5. Command and Control
on the acceptability of the course of action
The naval component commander
in terms of estimated costs in human and
exercises OPCON as designated by the JFC
equipment resources.
through the Numbered Fleet commanders
c. At the component and numbered
and/or subordinate task forces. These
fleet/Marine expeditionary force (MEF)
forces are task-organized as battle forces,
levels, Navy and Marine Corps directives
task forces, task groups, task units, and
are similar to the directives issued by a
task elements composed of individual units
unified commander, Chairman of the Joint
necessary to accomplish specific
Chiefs of Staff, or the NCA. These
operational missions. The officer in
directives take the following forms:
command of any of the task organizations
warning/alert/planning/execute orders,
is designated as the OTC and has primary
OPLANs, concept plans, functional plans,
responsibility for executing that force’s
campaign plans, outline plans, and letters
mission. The naval component commander
of instruction. Naval forces worldwide use
may create as many task groupings as
Maritime Tactical
Messages, a
necessary, assigning OTC responsibilities
standardization of the General Operating
as deemed appropriate. In doing this, the
Instructions known as Operational General
naval component commander retains a
(OPGEN) message, Operational Tasking
critical theater-level perspective on naval
(OPTASK) message, and Operational
operations. To facilitate execution and
Status (OPSTAT) message. These message
combat responsibilities, the Navy uses a C2
formats are compatible with the Joint
arrangement referred to as the composite
Operation Planning and Execution System
warfare commander
(CWC) concept
(JOPES). Navy officers in tactical
integrating ships, submarines, aircraft and
commands (OTCs) have the ability to
land based forces.
rapidly integrate naval units into a
synchronized battle force/battle group. The
a. CWC Concept. The Navy employs
OTC concept requires that assigned units
the CWC concept as the doctrinal
and subordinate commanders understand
cornerstone of its task force operational and
and use the same concept of operations and
tactical C2 system (see Figure IV-1). The
C2 practices. The delegation of warfare
CWC concept enables the OTC of a naval
commander responsibilities has been
force to aggressively wage combat
simplified through the use of standard
operations against air, surface, and
OPTASKs. The OTC may delegate
subsurface threats while contributing to the
responsibility within specific warfare
overall campaign plan of the JFC. The
disciplines
to
allow subordinate
concept is designed to prevent an enemy
commanders to operate based on stated
from saturating a single command node
IV-3
with a large number of rapidly closing air,
(5) Command and control warfare
surface, and submarine threats.
commander (C2WC).
Subordinate warfare commanders are
Warfare commanders normally operate
responsible to the CWC for the conduct of
from the combat direction centers (CDCs)
the tactical battle. Subordinate warfare
of the ships they actually command or in
commanders may include—
spaces specially equipped to accomplish
(1) Air warfare commander (AWC).
their respective missions. All warfare
commanders are responsible for collecting,
(2) Surface warfare commander
evaluating, and disseminating tactical
(SUWC).
information; planning and coordinating
with other warfare commanders; and, when
(3) Under sea warfare commander
authorized by the CWC, tactically
(USWC).
controlling assigned resources and
autonomously initiating action.
(4) Strike warfare commander
(STWC).
JFC
JOC
NAVFOR/JFACC
CWC
CTF/OTC
CVBG
CATF
JAOC
TACC
SACC
AFLE
TADC
FAWC
SAWC
LAWC
Air component liaison to JFACC
Coordination links
Figure IV-1. Naval Coordination Links
IV-4
b. OTC. The OTC is responsible for
(4) Specifies chain of command
successfully accomplishing missions
among OTC/CWC, the forces under their
assigned to the naval force. Offensive
tactical control, the principal warfare
mission objectives are of overriding
commanders, and the supporting
importance. The OTC may delegate
coordinators.
planning and execution of offensive
missions to a subordinate warfare
(5) Provides air, surface, and
commander. In most cases, the OTC and
subsurface units as available to the
the CWC are the same individual; however,
appropriate warfare commanders;
in large forces where overall mission
coordinates their respective efforts; and,
direction and control demand the total
when necessary, prioritizes their
attention of the OTC, tactical command
requirements in light of limited assets,
may be delegated to a separate CWC who
force mission, and current threat.
will wage combat operations to counter
(6) Arranges for coordination of air,
threats against the force. The OTC/CWC—
surface, and subsurface operations with
other friendly forces operating within or
(1) Promulgates plans and policies,
adjacent to the CWC’s force.
orders degrees of readiness, and directs
and monitors task force operations in order
c. Supporting Coordinators. Assisting
to accomplish the objectives.
the CWC and the subordinate warfare
commanders are supporting coordinators.
(2) Promulgates force disposition,
Supporting coordinators differ from
position, and movement and establishes a
warfare commanders in that coordinators
force surveillance area.
execute policy but do not control forces and
do not initiate autonomous actions. The
(3) Designates warfare com-
primary supporting coordinators are the air
manders and coordinators, alternates, and
resource element coordinator (AREC), who
sector authorities as appropriate and
is responsible for managing and
maintains the force command and
coordinating the allocation
and
coordination structure. When assigning
distribution of carrier aircraft, and the
warfare commanders and coordinators, the
submarine operating control authority
CWC takes into consideration the nature,
(SOCA), who is responsible for coordinating
severity, and relative priorities for dealing
the actions of direct support submarines.
with the expected threat; the size,
composition, and distribution of the force;
d. Implementation. The CWC may use
and the suitability of C2 equipment and
a part or all of the concept as required by
living and working space available in the
the situation. Actual at-sea C2 arrange-
various platforms in the force. Under
ments are promulgated by the CWC in
certain circumstances, the OTC/CWC may
OPGENs. A force’s OPGEN will include
find it convenient to assign special
instructions on dispositions, maneuvering,
commanders and coordinators, such as a
ROE, emissions control policy, readiness
sector warfare commander, functional
conditions, threat assessment, designation
group commander, screen commander,
of warfare commanders and coordinators,
maneuvering coordinator, and helicopter
and assignment of particular respon-
element coordinator. The specific duties
sibilities. Periodically, the OTC/CWC will
and authority of those commanders and
issue updates. Regardless of the amount
coordinators will be defined in the force
of authority delegated, the CWC retains
OPGENs-formatted messages by which the
the option of control by command override.
OTC/CWC promulgates the duties and
responsibilities of subordinate com-
e. Responsibilities of Subordinate
manders and coordinators.
Warfare Commanders. Although all
IV-5
warfare commanders have some interface
control of the prescribed area around the
with the TAGS, the primary operators are
force. Specifically, the AWC establishes
the STWC, AWC, and the AREC.
and maintains air superiority in an
Subordinate warfare commanders issue
assigned area of operations to facilitate
OPTASK and daily intentions messages to
naval, joint, and/or multinational offensive
promulgate their intentions to the forces
and/or defensive operations. Additionally,
under their control. These messages are
the AWC normally has control of fighter (for
addressed to all concerned forces, both the
air warfare) aircraft, E-2C (AWACS),
naval forces and other service component
carrier-based tankers, and long-range
forces performing missions for the OTC/
surface-to-air missile-capable ships.
CWC. Coordination with other service or
(3) AREC. Normally the carrier
functional component commanders outside
commanding officer, the AREC is a resource
the naval force by the OTC/CWC and
manager and an air warfare planner and
warfare commanders is accomplished
coordinator who serves as the air advisor
through the Navy component commander’s
to the OTC/CWC. The AREC is responsible
staff.
for airspace planning and also aids the
(1) STWC. The STWC coordinates
AWC in the airspace control function. The
the strike capabilities of the force with
AREC must be aware of the aircraft needs
respect to air and naval cruise missile
of the battle group or force; must ensure
assets and, as such, has the greatest
that the aircraft are used effectively; and
interface with the TAGS. Normally, the
must stay apprised of aircraft availability,
commander of the CVW is appointed the
maintenance readiness, configuration, and
STWC; in multicarrier battle groups, one
weapons load-out. The AREC must also
of the battle group commanders will
ensure that the OTC/CWC, warfare
normally be designated a STWC.
commanders, and supporting coordinators
are kept fully informed of carrier air
(a) The STWC appoints a
operations and aircraft availability and
strike planning team, headed by the mission
assignment.
commander, for each strike mission
assigned to the air wing or force. The strike
(a) The AREC assembles all air
planning team does the detailed mission
support requests from the other warfare
planning required to accomplish the strike
commanders and, with the strike
and accomplishes all coordination required
operations officer, produces the daily air
within the CVW. The strike operations
plan that allocates aircraft to the various
section of the AREC’s
(carrier com-
warfare commanders. In a multicarrier
mander’s) staff accomplishes coordination
battle force, each carrier generates its own
outside of the wing.
daily air plan. The OTC/CWC normally
issues a coordinated air tasking message
(b) The STWC also coordinates
to provide overall guidance for the
with the SUWC, the SOCA, and the force
preparation of each carrier’s daily air plan.
over-the-horizon coordinator (FOTC), who
Under certain circumstances, the AREC
maintains the locations of enemy forces for
may exercise tactical control of particular
long-range strikes. The SOCA will also be
aircraft outside of the carrier; for example,
involved in submarine-launched cruise
tanker aircraft.
missile strikes against land targets. Other
service components tasked to participate
(b) The AREC’s primary duties
in these operations will coordinate through
involve allocating carrier aircraft assets,
the STWC.
executing the daily air plan, transferring
control to the warfare commander or
(2) AWC. The AWC is responsible
requester of air services, informing the
to the CWC for air defense and airspace
warfare commanders of the status of these
IV-6
assets, and reporting results achieved by
(4) Sea Combat Commander (SCC).
them and the information gained from their
When deployed as a naval expeditionary
sensors. The AREC is responsible for
force, the duties of the SUWC and USWC
ensuring that all aircrews are properly
may be combined as a SCC. The SCC is then
briefed and debriefed before and after all
responsible for protecting the force from
missions. The OTC/CWC provides the
surface and undersea threats.
AREC with priorities when requisitions for
air assets exceed available resources.
g. Sea-Based JFACC. Whenever a US
joint force is activated, the Navy forces
f. Other Warfare Commanders.
(NAVFOR) will contribute substantially to
the joint air operation. If a JFC designates
(1) SUWC. The SUWC is respon-
a JFACC, the AREC and AREC staff will
sible to the CWC for the protection of the
normally serve as the NAVFOR primary
force against hostile surface units,
points of contact with the JFACC and
specifically to deny hostile surface units the
JAOC on matters pertaining to air
ability to use or contest maritime battle-
operations and planning. The naval
space in which friendly forces are operating
component commander must also be
or will be tasked to operate. When
prepared to assume the functions of the
ordered, the SUWC destroys or otherwise
JFACC and JAOC if designated as such by
neutralizes all hostile surface forces within
the JFC.
a specified area. Additionally, the SUWC
assumes control of assets provided by the
(1) LCCs ships and aircraft carriers
AREC or other outside air power providers
(CV/CVNs) are now configured with
to accomplish war-at-sea missions.
expanded communications suites—
improved computer assets including the
(2) C2WC. The C2WC is normally
CTAPS and other enhancements that give
a member of the OTC/CWC staff who is
the JFC a sea-based JFACC option. The
responsible to the OTC/CWC for the use of
staff of a sea-based JFACC will normally
the electromagnetic spectrum in support of
be much smaller than a land-based JFACC
C2W. The C2WC conducts defensive and
because of limited living and working
offensive operations, including EW,
spaces available on Navy ships (see Figure
electronic attack, electronic protection,
IV-2). The difference in staff size has a
operational security, signal warfare,
significant effect on the joint air planning
cryptologic operations, satellite vulner-
capacity that a sea-based JFACC can
ability, signal intelligence, and signal
handle. Based on exercise and training
security. The C2WC uses naval assets to
experience, the anticipated capability for
perform these missions or coordinates
Navy planning and tasking is one of the
their performance by other components’ air
following:
assets in support of naval operations.
(a) CV Sea-Based JFACC
(Unaugmented Staff). CV sea-based
(3) USWC. The USWC is respon-
JFACC (unaugmented staff) can control 1
sible to the CWC for the protection of the
CVBG, 1 ARG and portions of 1 USAF
force against hostile submarines. The
composite wing and generate 180-200
USWC denies hostile subsurface units the
sorties daily.
ability to use or contest maritime
battlespace in which friendly forces are
(b) CV Sea-Based JFACC
operating or may be tasked to operate.
(Augmented Staff): CV sea-based JFACC
When ordered, the USCW destroys or
(augmented staff) can control 2 CVBGs, 1
otherwise neutralizes all hostile
ARG and 1 USAF composite wing and
submarines within a specified area.
generate 400-plus sorties daily.
IV-7
(c) LCC (Flagship) Sea-Based
of a crisis, when the CVBG represents the
JFACC. LCC (Flagship) sea-based JFACC
preponderance of the air assets, with a
can control 3 CVBGs, 2 ARGs, 1 Marine
small contingent of land-based aviation
aircraft wing
(MAW), and
1 USAF
assets in theater. As the situation develops
composite wing and generate 800-plus
and more land-based air assets arrive in
sorties daily.
theater, a decision by the JFC to transition
the JFACC ashore could be executed. This
(2) The organization and processes
transition should be accomplished so as to
associated with a sea-based JFACC do not
minimize disruption to air operations and
differ significantly from a land-based
as transparent as possible to the joint
JFACC. The functions accomplished by the
aviation assets being tasked on the ATOs.
sea-based JAOC are the same as a land-
As the crisis is resolved and land-based
based JAOC; however, they are normally
assets leave the theater, the JFACC duties
conducted on a reduced scale because of a
can again be transferred to the naval
lack of space for staff.
component until the need for a JFACC no
longer exists.
(See Appendix E for more
(3) In a likely scenario, a sea-based
information on procedures for transferring
JFACC could be designated at the outbreak
JFACC responsibilities.)
<800 SORTIES
<400 SORTIES
•ADDITIONAL
TARGETING
PERSONNEL
•FLY AWAY
180-200 SORTIES
•2-3 CVBG
TEAM IN PLACE
•1-2 ARG
(20-25 PERSONS)
•1 MAW
•2 USAF WGs
•LIMITED USAF
•2 CVBG
FROM AFAR
•1 ARG
•12 CTAPS
•1USAF WG
•1 CVBG
•30 PHONES
•1 ARG
•1500 SQ FT
•12 CTAPS
•CORE CVBG JFACC
•20 PHONES
(20 PERSONS)
•1000 SQ FT
•HOST CTAPS
CV SEA-BASED
CV SEA-BASED
LCC (FLAGSHIP) SEA-BASED
JFACC
JFACC
JFACC
(UNAUGMENTED STAFF)
(AUGMENT STAFF)
Figure IV-2. Sea-Based JFACC Capabilities
IV-8
h. Liaisons. The NALE represents the
forces during amphibious operations see
maritime component commander (MCC)
Appendix D.
and is responsive to the JAOC on matters
pertaining to Navy and Marine amphibious
6. Conclusion
operations. The NALE processes NAVFOR
and Marine landing force requests for air
Naval forces play a vital role in
support and monitors and interprets the
accomplishing the JFC’s campaign plan.
maritime battle situation for the JAOC. The
From naval doctrine to C2 systems, naval
NALE provides the necessary interface for
air power provides vital resources to the
the exchange of current operational and
TAGS. Carrier- and land-based strike
intelligence data between components and
aircraft are equipped and trained to
the JAOC. The NALE also coordinates
perform all types of air-to-ground missions,
maritime requirements for air defense,
including AI and CAS as directed by the
long-range interdiction, and long-range
JFC. Naval forces also provide important
requirements. It also monitors Navy and
capabilities outside that of naval aviation,
Marine airspace and air traffic control
such as firing cruise missiles from surface
requirements and changes. The NALE
and subsurface platforms in support of the
provides feedback to the JAOC and
JFC’s mission objectives and other
components on current and future joint air
component commanders. Naval command
operations concerning integration of force
authority trains to perform joint C2
requirements.
functions such as JFACC afloat. Naval air
i. Amphibious Operations. For organ-
and sea power is an important part of the
ization and control of Navy and Marine
TAGS.
IV-9
Chapter V
MARINE CORPS COMPONENT
1. Background
(5) Security support for certain
naval bases and stations or areas.
As the “landward” extension of naval
3. Component Operations
expeditionary forces, Marine Corps forces
(MARFOR) are capable of projecting
The Marine Corps concept for
significant combat power ashore and are
conducting operations is maneuver
central to the overall accomplishment of
warfare, a way of thinking about war that
the littoral strategy. In light of their
shapes every action. It is a state of mind
readiness, flexibility, and broad utility in
born of bold will, intellect, initiative, and
times of crisis, MARFOR provide globally
ruthless opportunism. The Marine Corps’
responsive assets for contingency missions
organization for combat is the Marine air-
in support of NCA requirements. As a
ground task force (MAGTF). Maneuver
combined arms force (with integrated
warfare is a warfighting philosophy used
ground, aviation, and logistics capabilities)
by the MAGTF to shatter the enemy’s
with an expeditionary focus, the Marine
cohesion through a series of rapid, violent,
Corps offers a unique organization that
and unexpected actions. These actions
provides the CINC or JFC a “Total Force
create for the enemy a turbulent, rapidly
Package” ready for action.
deteriorating and impossible situation. The
MAGTF concentrates strength against
2. Mission
enemy vulnerabilities, striking quickly and
boldly where, when, and how it will cause
The MARFOR’ mission is to support
the greatest harm to the enemy’s
the JFC’s campaign. Assigned tasks may
warfighting ability. Because critical
include—
vulnerabilities are rarely obvious, the
MAGTF seeks to exploit every opportunity
(1)
Land operations contributing
to deal a decisive blow to the enemy. When
to a naval operation, including the seizure
the decisive opportunity arrives, the
and defense of advanced naval bases, attack
MAGTF exploits it fully and aggressively,
of enemy support facilities, seizure of areas
committing all its combat power. The
blocking passage of naval forces, and land-
ability and willingness to exploit
based air operations in support of the fleet.
opportunities generates decisive results.
(This is normally amphibious warfare
Inherent in maneuver warfare is the need
landing force matters.)
for relative speed, to seize the initiative;
dictate terms of combat; and keep the
(2) Naval political reinforcement
enemy off balance. The key to relative
operations up to and including inter-
speed is mobility. When combined with
vention.
firepower, relative speed shocks the
enemy, disrupts morale, and expedites
(3) Naval support, amphibious or
success.
otherwise, of continental campaigns.
a. Firepower and Mobility. Firepower
(4) Joint
and multinational
and mobility are fundamental to the
operations where the MARFOR operate as
employment of military forces. They are
part of a joint/multinational task force,
complementary and mutually dependent.
either as an inclusive element or as the
Firepower aids mobility, causing sufficient
principal framework.
destruction or confusion so that the enemy
V-1
cannot block or oppose friendly movement.
integration of
“arms” in such a manner
Mobility is used to position forces, including
that, to counteract one, the enemy must
its firepower assets, to gain positional
become more vulnerable to another.
advantage against the enemy.
Whatever action the enemy takes to avoid
one “arm” makes it vulnerable to another.
(1) Firepower. Besides the ground
Combined arms actions are designed so that
combat element’s (GCE’s) organic weapons
any enemy reaction is equally disastrous.
systems, aviation is the MAGTF’s greatest
source of firepower. Aviation increases and
(1) The “arms” that can be used to
complements the MAGTF’s firepower and
create a dilemma are not limited to
mobility. Aviation-delivered firepower
firepower means: aviation, artillery, and
damages or threatens to damage enemy
infantry. Marines can create combined
personnel, facilities, and equipment,
arms effects using maneuver of forces,
relieving some of the burden on ground
sustainment capability, deception, EW,
combat units to move and carry large
PSYOP, C2 warfare, and SO. The MAGTF
amounts of ordnance. With its ability to
takes advantage of the asymmetrical and
cover distances rapidly, aviation provides
complementary characteristics of different
the MAGTF commander with over-
types of “arms’’ to gain the leverage to
whelming amounts of firepower on short
destroy the enemy.
notice. The goal of firepower is not simply
to attrite the enemy’s strength but also to
(2) The Marine Corps uses com-
create a situation where shock, confusion,
bined arms at the tactical and operational
and shattered morale erode the ability to
levels of war. Tactically, a commander can
resist. Maneuver warfare discounts this
pin down (fix) an enemy force with direct
attritionist approach to warfighting. The
fire weapons, making that force vulnerable
focused use of firepower must fit a larger
to CAS. If the enemy forces choose to move
purpose. Its selective application con-
to escape the air attack, they risk coming
tributes to the enemy’s shock and
under direct fire. Marines link the
disruption.
combined arms effects of smaller units to
produce a larger combined arms effect. For
(2) Mobility. Mobility allows the
example, operationally the commander can
MAGTF commander to focus firepower
use aviation to isolate an enemy force from
where it can best be used to achieve a
reinforcements or supplies. The com-
decision. Mobility is tied to the use or
mander can then strike the isolated enemy
threatened use of firepower. Aviation
force, forcing the enemy to either fight and
provides the MAGTF tactical and
face irreplaceable losses or abandon the
operational mobility, “the ability to move
field and come under additional aviation
within an engagement or battle and to move
and artillery attack.
between engagements or battles.” Aviation
allows the MAGTF to rapidly reposition
c. Task Organization. The Marine
forces to any location in the battlespace.
Corps task organizes for combat by forming
With this ability, the MAGTF can conduct
integrated, combined arms MAGTFs to
tactical and operational actions at a tempo
include aviation. MAGTFs are specifically
higher than that of the enemy. This relative
tailored for rapid deployment by air and/
tempo advantage allows the MAGTF to
or sea. The MAGTF is self-sufficient and
shift quickly from one action to another.
can be tailored based on the theater or JFC’s
Aviation can also provide a tempo
operational requirement or task. MAGTF’s
advantage to the MAGTF by stopping or
are designed on a building block concept,
slowing enemy movement.
drawing appropriate units into an air-
b. Combined Arms. The Marine Corps
ground-logistics team under one
organization is predicated on the combined
commander. The size of the MAGTF and
arms concept. Combined arms is the
its components will vary depending on the
V-2
mission. Notional task organizations
execution of all operations. The GCE is
include the Marine expeditionary force
task organized to conduct ground
(MEF), Marine expeditionary unit special
operations in support of the MAGTF
operations capable
(MEU SOC), and the
mission and is formed around an infantry
special purpose MAGTF (SPMAGTF) that
organization reinforced with requisite
are described in Table V-1.
artillery, reconnaissance, armor, and
engineer forces. The ACE is task organized
(1) All MAGTFs, regardless of size,
to perform aviation functions, with Marine
have the same elements: a command
Corps aviation, as required to support the
element (CE), a GCE, an aviation combat
mission. The ACE is formed around an
element (ACE), and a combat service
aviation headquarters with appropriate air
support element (CSSE). The CE is the
control agencies, combat, combat support,
MAGTF headquarters and is task organized
and combat service support units. The
to provide C2 capabilities
(including
CSSE is task organized to provide the full
intelligence and communications) neces-
range of combat service support functions
sary for effective planning, direction, and
and capabilities necessary to support the
Table V-1. Types of MAGTFs
Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF)
The MEF is the principal Marine Corps warfighting organization, particularly for a larger
crisis or contingency. The MEF can range in size from less than one to multiple divisions
and aircraft wings, together with one or more force service support groups. With 60 days
of accompanying supplies, MEFs are capable of amphibious operations and sustained
operations ashore in any geographic environment. With appropriate augmentation, the
MEF command element is capable of performing the mission of a JTF headquarters.
MEFs are the primary “standing MAGTFs” (that is, they exist in peacetime as well as
wartime). Marine component headquarters may form smaller MAGTFs from these MEFs.
The Marine Corps reservoir of combat capabilitiesthe divisions, wings, and force service
support groupsare assigned to standing MEFs. A MEF will normally deploy in echelon
and will designate its lead element as the MEF (forward).
Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU)
Forward deployed MEU(SOC)s embarked aboard amphibious ready group (ARG) ships
operate continuously in the areas of responsibility of numerous unified commanders.
These units provide the NCA and unified commanders an effective means of dealing with
the uncertainties of future threats, by providing forward deployed units that offer unique
opportunities for a variety of quick reaction, sea-based, crisis response options in either a
conventional amphibious/expeditionary role or in the execution of maritime special
operations. The MEU(SOC) consists of a reinforced infantry battalion and a reinforced
squadron. It is normally prepared to operate with 15 days of supplies. The MEU(SOC) is
typically embarked aboard three to five US Navy amphibious ships. Before deployment, a
MEU undergoes an intensive 6-month training program focusing on its conventional and
selected maritime special operations missions. The training culminates with an evaluation
and subsequent certification as “special operations capable.”
Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force (SPMAGTF)
The SPMAGTF is task organized to accomplish a specific mission, operation, or regionally
focused exercise. As such, SPMAGTFs can be organized, trained, and equipped to conduct
a wide variety of expeditionary operations in response to a crisis or peacetime mission.
They are designated as SPMAGTF with a location. Their duties cover the spectrum from
noncombatant evacuation to disaster relief and humanitarian missions.
V-3
continued readiness and sustainability of
tailored to provide air support for the
the MAGTF as a whole.
MAGTF’s mission. The MAGTF com-
mander, who receives advice from the ACE
(2) The MAGTF can provide a
commander concerning effective ACE
cohesive combined arms team capable of
employment, makes the final decision
fulfilling assigned missions with little or no
concerning ACE missions, tasks, and
outside support. MAGTFs present unique
priority of effort. Execution of the MAGTF
military capabilities, limitations, and
operation relies on successful tactical air
organizational requirements. Using
operations. The ACE that organizes
maneuver warfare, the MAGTF produces
around an aviation headquarters—
decisive results with forces of moderate
(a) Supports the MAGTF com-
size. When employed in joint operations,
mander in any or all of the functional areas
the MAGTF commander advises the JFC
of Marine Corps aviation.
on MAGTF employment to ensure that its
considerable and unique capabilities are
(b) Plans and employs aviation
maximized.
to locate and destroy enemy forces and
supporting installations.
d. Marine Corps Aviation. Marine
Corps aviation’s primary mission is to
(c) Provides direct air support
participate as the MARFOR’ supporting air
to the MAGTF.
component. Marine aviation supports the
(d) Provides assault support to
seizure and defense of advanced naval
the MAGTF.
bases as well as conducts essential air
operations in support of Marine, naval, and
(e) Searches for, locates, iden-
joint land operations. As a collateral
tifies, and intercepts radiated electro-
mission, Marine Corps aviation participates
magnetic energy.
as an integral component of naval aviation
(f) Conducts antiair warfare
in the execution of other naval functions as
operations, including coordination and
the fleet commander may direct.
control of fighter aircraft and surface-to-air
(1) The MAGTF commander dele-
weapons.
gates air operations authority to the ACE
commander, who exercises authority
(g) Gains and maintains air
through the Marine Air Command Control
superiority.
System (MACCS) to effectively command,
(h) Prevents movement of
coordinate, and control MAGTF air
enemy forces into and within the area of
operations. The MACCS provides the ACE
operations.
commander with the means to exercise
centralized command and coordination and
(i) Provides its own organic
decentralized control, allowing for
aerial refueling capability.
operational flexibility and rapid response
to changing tactical situations.
(3) Marine Corps aviation performs
the following doctrinal functions: antiair
(2) The MAGTF ACE, which fulfills
warfare, offensive air support (OAS),
expeditionary aviation requirements, is
assault support, air reconnaissance, EW,
sized to the mission and may range from a
and control of aircraft and missiles.
small aircraft detachment to multiple
Marine Corps aircraft wings. The ACE
(a) Antiair Warfare. The
adds a dimension of flexibility, firepower,
MAGTF uses antiair warfare to destroy or
and mobility to the MAGTF that it would
reduce enemy air and missile threats. The
not have otherwise. Normally one ACE
purpose of antiair warfare is to gain and
supports a MAGTF, but this is not a
maintain the necessary air superiority for
permanent organization. The ACE is
the MAGTF to conduct ground and air
V-4
operations without prohibitive inter-
enemy potential before it can be brought to
ference from enemy air action. Antiair
bear effectively against friendly forces.
warfare includes offensive antiair warfare,
DAS can attack enemy centers of gravity,
operations conducted against enemy air
enemy formations, lines of communication,
resources before they can be employed or
and C2 centers. DAS missions are
assume an attacking role and air defense,
conducted on both sides of the FSCL. The
active and passive measures designed to
two categories of DAS are AI and armed
reduce or nullify the effects of hostile air
reconnaissance.
action.
••AI can deny the enemy use of
(b) OAS. OAS isolates the
a particular area, route, or facility; increase
battlefield, projects firepower to shape
their consumption of supplies; increase the
events in time and space, and delivers
movement of troops and equipment; and
firepower against enemy installations,
apply heavy pressure on their lines of
facilities, and personnel. OAS destroys
communications. All of this activity
enemy resources and isolates the enemy’s
increases the enemy’s vulnerability to air
military force, allowing the MAGTF
attack and provides friendly forces with
commander to influence future battle. The
lucrative targets.
MAGTF commander uses OAS to create a
••Armed reconnaissance pro-
dilemma for the enemy. If the enemy
vides the MAGTF commander with an
moves to confront friendly forces, enemy
economy-of-force measure to cover and
forces are exposed to aviation assets. If
defend terrain not suited to other forces.
the enemy cannot move or employ forces
Armed reconnaissance identifies enemy
or is unable or unwilling to sustain losses,
forces and engages them before they can
initiative and tempo are lost. OAS, which
threaten MAGTF forces.
does not include air operations to reduce
an enemy’s air capability, is categorized as
(c) Assault Support. Assault
either CAS or deep air support (DAS).
support operations provide air movement
•CAS, which is used against
of personnel, supplies, and equipment into
hostile targets located close to friendly
or within the area of operations and ensure
forces, requires detailed integration with
the rapid buildup of combat power. Assault
a friendly ground force’s fire and
support allows forces to bypass certain
maneuver. The supported ground unit
obstacles, avoid hostile areas, maneuver
commander requests or approves all CAS
over the entire battlefield, and rapidly
missions in the area of operations. CAS
resupply combat forces. It requires
allows the MAGTF commander to
detailed, coordinated, and concurrent
concentrate aviation at the decisive place
planning at all levels. Categories of assault
and time to achieve local combat
support include combat assault transport,
superiority and take advantage of fleeting
air delivery, aerial refueling, air evacuation,
battlefield opportunities.
and tactical recovery of aircraft and
personnel (that is, combat rescue, air
•Although DAS may require
logistical support, and battlefield
considerable coordination, it does not
illumination).
require detailed integration with a friendly
ground force’s fire and maneuver. It does
(d) Air Reconnaissance. Air
require a complete understanding of the
reconnaissance provides the MAGTF
MAGTF commander’s intent and scheme
commander with information that can be
of maneuver in order to properly shape
used to influence operations. Air recon-
the battlefield. DAS also allows the
naissance collects multisensor imagery of
MAGTF commander to destroy, neutralize,
areas of interest; provides and maintains
or delay enemy reinforcements, critical
surveillance of areas of interest; provides
enemy functions or capabilities, and other
rapid and current information on enemy
V-5
composition, disposition,
activity,
task force and host nation airspace and air
installations, and terrain; and supports the
defense networks must be considered.
direction and adjustment of artillery and
Appendix C contains additional details
naval surface fire support (NSFS).
concerning the MACCS during amphibious
operations.
(e) EW. EW provides timely
information on the enemy, disrupts the
b. Joint/Multinational Operations.
enemy’s use of the electromagnetic
During joint/multinational operations, the
spectrum, and provides for the MAGTF’s
MAGTF must successfully integrate with
use of the electromagnetic spectrum
the force as a whole and the other
despite enemy EW. EW also neutralizes
components. The MACCS must conduct
enemy radars and provides the MAGTF
planning to integrate and coordinate with
commander with information to update the
other service and joint airspace control and
enemy’s order of battle.
air defense agencies and staffs to allow the
ACE commander to effectively employ
(f) Control of Aircraft and
Marine aviation in support of the MAGTF.
Missiles. Control of aircraft (fixed-wing,
An integral function of the MACCS is to
rotary-wing, and UAVs) and missiles
provide liaison to air C2 agencies external
provides the MAGTF commander with the
to the MAGTF. As with amphibious
ability to employ ACE assets to influence
operations, considerations must be given to
combat operations. It includes the
host nation airspace and air defense
facilities, equipment, communications,
networks.
procedures, and personnel to plan, direct,
and control the ACE’s effort. Collectively,
c. MAGTF Employment. The MAGTF
these compromise the MACCS.
is a task organized fighting force. The task
organization of the MAGTF is driven by the
4. Planning
assigned or implied mission(s) for the
To effectively conduct MAGTF air
MAGTF. As such, its organization will vary
operations, detailed planning must take
from operation to operation. When
place. The MAGTF commander and the
considering the organization of the
MAGTF commander’s staff must
MAGTF’s ACE, the MAGTF commander
understand the planning required for
must weigh the MAGTF’s air C2 needs
integration of MARFOR as part of a joint
against available joint force assets and joint
or multinational force. The GCE and CSSE
force interface requirements.
commanders and staffs must fully
d. MACCS. The MACCS provides the
comprehend their planning roles relative
MAGTF commander with the ability to plan
to MAGTF air operations. The ACE
and direct air operations within the
commander, the ACE staff, subordinate
MARFOR area of operations. The MACCS
units, and personnel manning the MACCS
must plan to support MAGTF operations
must firmly grasp planning factors relative
through the execution of the six functions
to C2 of MAGTF air operations.
of Marine aviation. Categories of MACCS
a. Amphibious Operations. Amphib-
planning include but are not limited to—
ious operations combine ships, aircraft, and
airspace control; airspace and air defense
landing forces into a united military effort
control measures; air control procedures;
against a hostile or potentially hostile
air direction; and communications
shore. It is one of the most complex
connectivity with higher, adjacent, and
military operations to conduct. The
subordinate air C2 agencies.
MACCS must plan to provide the ACE
5. Command and Control
commander with the ability to C2 MAGTF
air operations during all phases of the
a. MACCS. The MACCS provides the
amphibious operation. Integration of
ACE commander with the means to
landing force aviation with the amphibious
command, coordinate, and control air
V-6
operations (see Figure V-1). The Marine
that exercises command. It serves as the
air control group (MACG) provides the
ACE commander’s operational CP. The
personnel and equipment to staff, operate,
TACC provides the facility from which the
and maintain principal MACCS agencies.
ACE commander and the battle staff plan,
The MACCS provides a robust air C2
supervise, coordinate, and execute all
capability that is fully capable of conducting
current and future MAGTF air operations.
air support, air defense, and airspace
The battle staff is divided into two sections:
management functions within the
a future operations section and a current
framework of joint and multinational
operations section. The future operations
operations. The MACCS task organizes its
section is responsible for drafting, revising,
organization and capabilities to meet the
and disseminating the MAGTF ATO. In the
MAGTF’s air C2 needs. It varies in size
case of a joint ATO, future operations
from small air support elements and air
section provides the JFC with information
traffic control teams typically deployed
concerning MAGTF direct support sorties,
with a Marine expeditionary unit (MEU) to
sorties in excess of MAGTF direct support
a fully functional air C2 system used in
needs, or request for air support beyond the
MEF-level operations. The principal C2
ACE’s ability to provide for inclusion into
agencies of the MACCS are—tactical air
the joint air tasking cycle/order. The
command center (TACC), tactical air
current operations section is responsible
direction center (TADC), sector antiair
for the execution of the ATO, including
warfare coordinator (SAAWC), and tactical
both MAGTF and joint aviation assets in
air operations center (TAOC), direct air
support of the MAGTF. Using the principle
support center (DASC), Marine air traffic
of centralized command and decentralized
control detachment (MATCD), terminal
control, the TACC’s current operations
control agencies (for direct air support).
section supervises and monitors the
activities of the subordinate MACCS
(1) TACC. The TACC is the senior
agencies in execution of the ATO. The
MACCS agency and the one MACCS agency
JFC
JOC
MARFOR/JFACC
AADC
ACA
MAGTF/FFCC
TACC/
ACE
SACC
TACC
TADC
XX
GCE/DIV
DASC
MATCD
SAAWC/TAOC
CP
III
DASC(A)
FSCC
RGT
ASC(A)
EW/C
II
CP
TACP
TAC(A)
NGFO
BN
FSCC
I
CP
TACP
CO
FSCC
TACP/ FAC (A)
LAAD BN
TMD DET
NGFO
HST
FAC
TACP
NGFO
STINGER
AVENGER
Tactical Air
Request Net
Figure V-1. MACCS Coordination Links
V-7
TACC provides the MAGTF’s aviation arm
defense planning and management of air
with critical guidance, direction, and
defense resources within the SAAWC’s
supervision regarding the employment and
sector. The SAAWC will manage one or
execution of the six functions of Marine
more TAOCs within the SAAWC’s sector.
aviation. In turn, the TACC integrates the
(a) The SAAWC operates from
Marine aviation’s six functions into the
the sector antiair warfare facility (SAAWF),
MAGTF scheme of maneuver through its
a system of workstations with various
linkage with the MEF’s force fires
software applications. The SAAWF is
coordination center
(FFCC) or the
usually collocated with the TAOC, as the
MAGTF’s combat operations center (COC).
majority of capabilities provided by the
The TACC also provides the functional
SAAWF are driven by the TAOC’s database.
interface and coordination for employment
Air situation information and com-
of MAGTF aviation in joint/multinational
munications capabilities are provided to
and naval expeditionary operations. In joint/
the SAAWF by the TAOC via interfaces
multinational operations, the TACC is often
with the TAOC’s digital data and
referred to as the Marine TACC to avoid
communications busses.
confusion with the Navy tactical air control
center
(Navy TACC). The TACC can
(b) The TAOC is the MACCS’s
interface with other air C2 agencies via
principal air defense agency that conducts
TADILs A and B, and North Atlantic Treaty
airspace control and management. It
Organization (NATO) Link 1.
provides real-time surveillance of assigned
airspace, positive control, and navigational
(2) TADC. The TADC will be task
assistance for friendly aircraft. It performs
organized to perform all or most of the
real-time direction and control of air
TACC’s tasks. It will be employed in a
defense operations involving aircraft and
subordinate role to a senior air C2 agency,
surface-to-air weapons. By collecting and
most notably during expeditionary
displaying information from its own
operations where the Marine TADC is
sensors, other MAGTF sources, and
subordinate to the Navy TACC before the
external sources
(other services and
transfer of control ashore. Once the
nations), the TAOC controls assigned
MAGTF assumes control of all air
airspace and directs and controls the fires
operations within an amphibious objective
of assigned air defense assets. The TAOC’s
area (AOA), the TADC becomes the TACC.
primary air surveillance radar, the AN/
A TADC site that is subordinate to a Marine
TPS-59 can provide theater ballistic missile
TACC may also be established within a
cueing directly to theater ballistic missile
MAGTF’s area of operations to provide the
units. The TAOC can perform limited
ACE commander with an additional
functions as an alternate TADC/TACC
capability to coordinate support for a
current operations section for limited
specific area or a specified time.
periods should the need arise.
(3) SAAWC and TAOC. The
(c) The TAOC typically deploys
SAAWC and TAOC are the MAGTF’s
an early warning/control (EW/C) site
principal agents for the conduct of air
forward from its main site to improve early
defense operations. The SAAWC is the
warning, fills gaps in surveillance coverage,
MAGTF’s air defense battle manager and
and enhances weapons control and
is directly responsible to the ACE
coordination. The TAOC and early warning
commander for the supervision, manage-
and control sites can provide data link
ment, and coordination of air defense
interfaces via TADILs A, B, C, and J (one-
operations within the SAAWC’s assigned
or two-way); ATDL-1, and NATO Link 1.
sector. The SAAWC is not an air C2 agency,
rather an activity that serves as an
(4) DASC. The DASC is the principal
extension of the TACC that focuses on air
MACCS agency responsible for the control
V-8
and direction of air operations directly
control services at one forward operating
supporting ground forces. It functions in a
base and also fields a MATCD mobile team
decentralized mode of operations but is
(MMT) capable of providing air traffic
directly supervised by the TACC. Normally
control services from temporary landing
the first major air control agency ashore, it
zones or fields using non-radar, procedural
lands with the GCE’s senior FSCC. The
control. The MATCD ties its air surveil-
DASC, which is normally collocated with
lance picture into the MAGTF’s integrated
the GCE’s senior FSCC, processes and
air defense system through a TADIL-B data
coordinates requests for immediate air
link.
support and procedurally controls aircraft
(6) Terminal Control Agencies (for
transiting its area of responsibility. It
direct air support). Terminal control
coordinates air missions requiring
agencies perform air control functions in
integration with ground forces, including
that they manage the final delivery of
CAS, assault support, and designated air
ordnance, cargo, or personnel and
reconnaissance missions. The DASC uses
accomplish other specialized tasks not
procedural control to route direct air
performed by other air controllers. Some
support and assault support aircraft
terminal control agencies are not organic
through its designated area of
to the ACE but are integrated into the
responsibility.
MACCS through communications, doctrine,
and procedures.
The DASC may use air support
liaison teams (ASLTs) to maintain liaison
(a) TACP. A TACP plays an
between the DASC and the GCE’s senior
integral role in the MACCS but is
FSCC, especially in cases where the DASC
responsible to the supported commander
cannot be physically collocated with the
for employment and coordination of
FSCC. In a MEU-level operation, the
assigned supporting aircraft. TACPs are
MACG detachment provides an air support
organic to the GCE and establish and
element (ASE) that operates primarily with
maintain liaison and communications
the FSCC and TACPs to assist in the control
between parent units, airspace control
of direct air support aircraft. An airborne
agencies, and supporting aircraft. A TACP
DASC may be employed to extend
participates in fire support coordination
communication capabilities or to provide
and advises the ground unit commander
DASC functions when the ground DASC is
concerning the employment of supporting
not operable because of the need to displace
aircraft.
or as a result of battle damage or
(b) FAC. The FAC is a naval
equipment degradation.
aviator or naval flight officer who is a
member of the TACP. The FAC controls
(5) MATCD. MATCDs provide all-
aircraft providing CAS to ground forces and
weather air traffic control services to
operates from forward ground positions.
forward operating bases. They are task
organized based on volume and type of air
(c) FAC(A). A FAC(A) conducts
traffic, expected duration of deployment,
air reconnaissance/surveillance and pro-
and external support availability. They
vides terminal control of OAS missions and
have a control tower, surveillance and
artillery and NSFS spotting. FAC(A)s are
precision radars, and navigational aid
an airborne extension of the TACP and can
capabilities. Surveillance radars allow
provide radio relay for ground FACs as well
MATCD personnel to provide aircraft
as BDA. Navy FAC(A) aircrews train
navigational and separation services and
routinely with Army and Marine Corps
early warning and detection information to
attack helicopters in JAAT operations. A
other MACCS agencies. Each MATCD is
FAC(A) is the functional equivalent of the
capable of providing all-weather air traffic
USAF airborne forward air controller.
V-9
(d) Tactical Air Coordinator
(g) HST. The HST task organizes
(Airborne) (TAC[A]). The TAC(A) is an
and equips to establish and operate
experienced naval aviator operating from
helicopter pickup zones (PZs) and/or LZs.
an aircraft, who coordinates the action of
The supported helicopterborne force and
combat aircraft engaged in close support of
supporting helicopter unit provide
ground or sea forces. The TAC(A) is an
personnel and equipment to establish a
airborne extension of the DASC and/or
HST. Normally employed in each PZ/LZ,
TACC. TAC(A) assignment depends on
the HST assists in the pickup, movement,
mission requirements and aircraft
and landing of helicopterborne forces,
availability. All TAC(A)s provide airspace
equipment, and supplies and in evacuation
coordination and coordinate the employ-
of casualties and enemy prisoners of war.
ment of aircraft with other supporting
arms. To fulfill these responsibilities, the
b. Fire Support Coordination System.
TAC(A) coordinates with the assault
The fire support coordination system is the
support coordinator (airborne) (ASC[A]),
means by which the MAGTF commander
TACPs, FSCC/supporting arms coordina-
focuses all fire support elements, including
tion center (SACC), subordinate FAC(A)s,
air, to accomplish the mission.
and artillery and NSFS units. The TAC(A)
requires in-depth knowledge of the MACCS
(1) Roles. Each MAGTF element
airspace management, fire support
plays a part in fire support coordination.
coordination, and fixed- and rotary-wing
operations and capabilities.
(a) CE. The role of the MAGTF
(e) ASC(A). The ACE com-
CE in fire support coordination is to
mander provides an ASC(A) to provide air
implement the MAGTF commander’s
coordination and control during helicopter
intent, which will be focused on the deep
operations. The ASC(A) serves as an
operation. The MAGTF’s FSCC accom-
extension of the DASC in support of the air
plishes this by planning and coordinating
mission commander. An ASC(A) provides
fire support for deep operations, tasking
information concerning enemy operations
elements to attack targets of MAGTF
and weather along approach and
interest, establishing the FSCL,
retirement routes and in landing zones
coordinating with joint/allied forces, and
(LZs), route alterations, and supporting
disseminating information. At the MEF
arms employment. The ASC(A) coordinates
level, these functions are carried out
with TAC(A)s and FAC(A)s for employment
within the COC and the force fires
of CAS. The DASC establishes support
coordination center (FFCC) under the
relationships between the ASC(A) and the
supervision of the G-3. Within other
TAC(A). ASC(A)s and TAC(A)s require the
MAGTF CEs (SPMAGTF, MEU, etc.), these
same type of in-depth knowledge and
functions are carried out in the COC under
experience.
the supervision of the operations officer.
(f) ANGLICO. An ANGLICO can
be attached to US Army or allied forces to
(b) GCE. The role of the GCE
provide shore control of NSFS and CAS. In
in fire support coordination is largely
the absence of an ANGLICO unit or in
determined by the size of the MAGTF
conjunction with the ANGLICO unit,
involved. Higher echelons of command
control and coordination of NSFS and CAS
have greater capacity to conduct planning
may be delegated to a Navy FAC(A) aircrew
due to their larger staffs. Regardless of its
when airborne. Control, coordination, and
size, the GCE has critical fire support
employment will then be performed by the
functions. The GCE provides pertinent
FAC(A) as tasked by the ANGLICO or
information, such as the location of friendly
appropriate FSE of the maneuver
artillery units, fire support coordination
commander responsible.
measures, and enemy antiaircraft weapons
V-10
to other elements of the MAGTF directly
vises the FSCC, which is collocated with
or to the MAGTF CE for further
the COC. Normally, each FSCC will have
dissemination as required.
an artillery liaison element, a TACP, an
NSFS element, and other liaison/operating
(c) ACE. The ACE provides
fire support teams as required. Higher
the MAGTF air support. In addition to the
level FSCCs generally have a target
Marine Corps aviation functions described
intelligence element. The headquarters to
above, the ACE—
which the FSCC belongs provides facilities,
equipment, and materiel. Supporting arms
•Disseminates target data,
units provide representatives and
status of requested air support, and
equipment necessary for conducting
locations of friendly surface-to-air weapons
coordination, targeting, and commun-
to other elements of the MAGTF or to the
ications functions for their respective arms.
MAGTF CE for further dissemination. The
ACE receives targeting information, target
(3) MAGTF Fire Support.
guidance, and the fire support plan from
the MAGTF.
(a) The MAGTF FSCC—
•Conducts detailed aviation
•Conducts targeting functions to
planning to support the MAGTF
meet the MAGTF commander’s intent and
commander’s concept of operations.
may form a targeting committee. In joint
•Recommends objectives and
operations, targeting is conducted in
target priorities to the MAGTF
conjunction with the JFC’s targeting effort.
commander.
• Represents MAGTF at the JTF
fire support meetings/conferences or JTCB
•Develops requirements for
and arranges for fire support liaison to
SEAD.
other services as required.
•CSSE. The CSSE commander
•Disseminates pertinent infor-
is normally assigned responsibility for the
mation to other elements of the MAGTF
conduct of rear operations. Since no formal
and to forces outside the MAGTF.
supporting arms coordination agency exists
within the CSSE’s rear area operations
•Performs those functions
center (RAOC), the CSSE may be aug-
required to coordinate/integrate sup-
mented with fire support representatives.
porting arms.
These ad hoc FSCCs perform their tasks
through coordination with the MAGTF
•Establishes reporting require-
FSCC and the GCE FSCC for fulfillment of
ments, fire support coordination measures
fire support requests. As the battlefield
(FSCM) and procedures. (This includes
extends, the RAOC may have to interface
establishing the FSCL.)
with the TACC.
•Resolves fire support conflicts
(2) Control. FSCCs provide cohesion
between other MAGTF elements when they
to the fire support process. A FSCC is a
cannot be resolved at lower levels.
single location where communication
facilities and personnel incident to the
•Provides inputs on the
coordination of all forms of fire support are
allocation of aviation and NSFS efforts.
centralized. FSCCs are established at
MAGTF level and at each GCE echelon
•Requests and coordinates
down to battalion level. Under the staff
external fire support or target acquisition
supervision of the G-3/S3, the fire support
support with higher, adjacent, and joint/
coordinator (FSC) organizes and super-
allied forces.
V-11
•Coordinates with the GCE’s
within the GCE’s area of influence. The
senior FSCC, MACCS, and the RAOC to
FSCC conducts targeting; plans and
achieve air-ground integration.
In
coordinates the delivery of its organic fire
amphibious operations involving naval
support and the delivery of fire support
(that is, MAGTF and Navy) forces, the
provided by other means, such as NSFS, air,
MAGTF FSCC is the landing force FSCC
or EW; and integrates fires with maneuver
and provides the landing force
in close operations. The FSCC coordinates
representation to the commander,
with the other elements of the MAGTF and
amphibious task forces's (CATF’s) SACC.
with adjacent external forces on fire
support matters.
(b) MAGTF Air Officer.
Although not a part of the MAGTF FSCC,
(b) The Targeting Committee.
the MAGTF action officer (AO) has several
Because numerous and complex factors
fire support duties.
These include
must be considered in the targeting
providing expertise and advice on aviation
process, the GCE commander needs advice
matters to the MAGTF commander and the
from experts in several areas. The
FSCC; establishing liaison with the ACE,
establishment and use of a targeting
GCE air officer, and the air officers of
committee brings these specialists together
higher and adjacent headquarters on
as a matter of standard procedure.
aviation support and airspace management
matters; determining MAGTF air support
(c) The Target Information
capabilities; preparing an aviation estimate
System (TIS). The TIS serves as the
of supportability; consolidating air support
primary source of target information in the
requirements; and preparing the air fire
FSCC. It is oriented to the tactical support
plan in the MAGTF operations order. In
requirements of the command and the
amphibious operations the MAGTF air
target information requirements of the
officer operates landing force stations in
FSCC for planning fires. Specific functions
the SACC, works closely with the
of the TIS include maintaining target data
supporting arms coordinator, and
and target/situation maps; maintaining
maintains liaison with the ASC in the
current target lists, including counter-
Navy TACC.
mortar, counterbattery, and SEAD
(c) MAGTF Target Information
information; publishing target bulletins;
Officer (TIO). A member of the MAGTF
consolidating, evaluating, and displaying
FSCC normally performs the functions of
target information, along with recom-
TIO, which is needed on the MAGTF CE
mending target classification and attack
staff. When designated, the TIO heads the
priorities to the FSC; collecting information
target information section (TIS) of the
pertaining to the results of attack on
FSCC and, in amphibious operations,
targets; and coordinating with the MAGTF
serves as the landing force TIO. The TIO
TGTINTELO and artillery unit S2.
uses information provided by the target
intelligence officer
(TGTINTELO), a
(d) The FSCC/DASC. The
member of the G-2 section, to perform
DASC collocates with the GCE’s senior
targeting functions. During operations
FSCC. In cases where the DASC cannot
ashore, the MAGTF CE supports the GCE
physically collocate with the FSCC, an air
targeting effort and ACE mission planning
support liaison team from the DASC is
by rapidly responding to their requests for
typically used in the FSCC to facilitate
target data.
information exchange and coordination
between the DASC and FSCC. The FSCC/
(4) GCE Fire Support.
DASC organization is capable of planning
(a) The GCE FSCC. The GCE’s
and integrating supporting arms within the
FSCC plans and integrates fire support
GCE’s area of influence. The FSCC and the
V-12
DASC require extensive information
coordinates all supporting arms to support
exchange.
the scheme of maneuver or defensive plan.
•The FSCC provides the DASC
•The TIS, which is normally
with the commander’s objectives and intent,
formed upon activation of the FSCC during
friendly unit locations, positions of indirect
the initial planning phase. Its duties
fire weapons, scheme of maneuver,
include target acquisition, dissemination of
boundaries, fire support coordination
data, and attack recommendation and
measures, maneuver checkpoints, and the
evaluation. The TIS is supervised by the
schedule of fires. Pertinent intelligence
TIO under the staff supervision of the FSC
data-particularly antiair threats, air
and works closely with the TGTINTELO
targets that require terminal control that
from the division G-2 section.
exceeds the GCE’s organic TACP
capability, and status of terminal
(b) Division TACP. In the
controllers within the GCE are also passed
division TACP, one of the officers is a FAC-
to the DASC.
qualified naval aviator/flight officer and the
commander of the air and naval gunfire
•The DASC provides the FSCC
platoon. Additionally there is an air
with aircraft to perform missions, aircraft
support control officer. The division TACP
routing plans, status of outstanding
is primarily concerned with executing air
requests, changes to the ATO, UAV
support and—
operations, MACCS operational status, and
forward arming and refueling point status.
•Establishing and maintaining
The DASC also provides intelligence data,
liaison and communications with appro-
including BDA and air defense warning
priate control agencies.
conditions, to the FSCC. Finally, the DASC
also makes recommendations on air
•Informing and advising the
allocations and fire support control
ground unit commander on employment of
measures.
aviation support, including antiair warfare
and low-altitude air defense (LAAD).
(5) Division Fire Support.
•Preparing, forwarding, and
(a) Division FSCC. The Marine
coordinating air requests.
Corps division may, in large-scale
operations, be used as an operational
•Providing
air
support
headquarters and perform the role of the
estimates.
GCE or it may be used as a subelement of
the GCE. When used as such, the division
•Prioritizing and resolving
FSCC has a key role in targeting due to its
duplication and conflicting air support
much greater capability to collect and
requests.
analyze target information. Division FSCC
•Disseminating target infor-
supporting arms representatives identify
mation received through air support
requirements, make estimates, and
channels.
recommend the allocation of fire support
means within the division.
The
•Recommending fire support
commanding officer of the artillery
coordination measures as they relate to air
regiment (division artillery officer is the
support.
division FSC) and is supported by—
•Maintaining an air situation
•The fire support coordination
map.
section, which provides liaison to division
forces for artillery control and coordi-
(c) Naval Gunfire Section. The
nation. Through its experience, this section
naval gunfire section establishes and
V-13
maintains facilities for liaison and
to 48 hours in advance of the current battle
communications between supported units
and is significantly larger in scope than at
and appropriate control agencies. The
battalion level. The regiment is normally
section informs and advises the ground
the lowest level where commanders are
commander on the employment of NSFS,
allotted means to influence the battle
requests and controls NSFS, and controls
significantly with fire support. The
radar beacon teams.
regimental commander selects as the FSC
an officer having the requisite knowledge
(d) Division Air Section. The
of fire support, usually the direct support
division air section in the G-3 consists of
artillery battalion liaison officer.
the division air officer, assistant air
Organization of the FSCC is similar to
officer, and two air controllers. The air
battalions, except that no FOs or FACs are
section is not a part of the division TACP
assigned.
or the FSCC but works closely with both.
The division air section—
(7) Battalion Fire Support. Most
fire support coordination in operations is
•Advises the division com-
done at battalion level. In battalion FSCCs,
mander and commanders of elements not
calls for fire and air requests from the
having TACPs on matters concerning air
companies are monitored/received and
support.
acted upon by appropriate supporting arms
•Participates in development
representatives. Requests are checked to
of operation plans and orders on matters
ensure that supporting arms are integrated
pertaining to air employment.
with the scheme of maneuver and that
friendly forces are not needlessly
•Participates
with the
endangered. The battalion FSC is the
FSCOORD in targeting and determining
weapons company commander. Assistance
type of support.
is provided by a liaison section from a
supporting artillery battery, an organic
•Prioritizes and resolves
battalion TACP, a shore fire control party
conflicts in air support requests.
from the headquarters battery of the
•Prepares, forwards, and
supporting artillery battalion, and a mortar
coordinates air support requests.
liaison party from the battalion mortar
platoon. The senior air officer of the TACP
•Relays pertinent information
acts in several capacities: as a special staff
to other tactical air control agencies.
officer to the battalion commander in
regard to all aviation matters; as the officer
•Maintains close liaison with
in charge of the battalion TACP; and as the
the DASC to assist in coordination of air
air representative in the battalion FSCC.
support.
The other air officers serve as leaders of
(6) Regimental Fires Support.
the forward air control parties and do a
The regimental FSCC plays a key role in
majority of preplanned and immediate
planning and using fire support. They
requests for CAS to infantry companies to
assist the battalions in coordinating and
which they are assigned. Separate
granting clearances for fires delivered in
battalions operating as maneuver elements
the regiment’s zone of action beyond the
establish an FSCC that functions in the
battalion’s zone. They also coordinate
same manner as an equivalent-level
ingress and egress routes for CAS
infantry unit FSCC.
missions when aircraft routes are through
the zone of action of units adjacent to the
(8) Company Fire Support. A com-
unit requesting the mission. Fire support
pany does not have an FSCC, as such. The
planning at the regiment attempts to
company commander, assisted by the
influence future operations, normally 24
artillery forward observer, mortar forward
V-14
observer, and, if assigned, a FAC and NSFS
air C2 system in theater with the intention
spotter performs the fire support
of passing JAOC functions to another air
coordination necessary at company level.
C2 agency as the tempo of air operations
Coordination between companies is
increases. The TACC could also serve as a
essential for effective battalion-level fire
pass-through agency in situations where
support coordination. Such coordination
JAOC functions are being passed from
reduces the frequency with which FSCC
afloat to ashore or vice versa. As is the case
personnel must intervene to cancel or
with all JAOCs, service liaisons and subject
modify requests for supporting arms and
matter expert representatives that reflect
frees them for tasks the companies cannot
the makeup of the joint force are necessary
accomplish.
to staff a TACC-hosted JAOC. Similar
considerations should be applied to the
c. Liaisons. The MAGTF must ensure
TACC when performing ACA or AADC
proper coordination and integration of
functions.
Marine forces with joint and multinational
forces. Representation on joint staffs and
(1) A typical theater air defense
within joint agencies, to include liaison
organization includes an AADC whose
personnel, is essential to ensure proper
duties include—coordinating the employ-
employment of forces. The ACE com-
ment of theater air defense systems to
mander, in exercising authority to com-
optimize joint force air defense capabilities;
mand, control, and coordinate MAGTF air
building a seamless air defense
operations through the Marine TACC,
architecture; recommending ROE to the
should ensure joint staff/agency and liaison
JFC on air defense matters; and developing
representation to the joint force; JFACC,
the joint force’s air defense plan. The
AADC, and ACA staffs; and the JAOC. One
geography of the JOA (including size and
example is sending the MARLO to the
terrain); number of air defense resources
JAOC.
and those resources’ capabilities; and tempo
of joint air operations are some factors that
Joint and multinational liaisons are
are often used to determine the need to
extremely useful in enhancing MAGTF
subdivide the joint force’s air defense area
support to other services and nations. It is
into regions. If air defense regions are
normally desirable to exchange air C2
established, the AADC typically designates
liaison personnel with multinational users
regional air defense commanders (RADCs)
of the ACE and/or the MACCS. The
to oversee the implementation and
exchange of liaisons greatly facilitates
supervise execution of the air defense plan.
coordination and control of aircraft and
In turn, the regions may be further
missiles within the MARFOR area of
subdivided into sectors, with each sector
operations. Marine air traffic control (ATC)
under the supervision of a sector air
liaisons and the ANGLICO are examples
defense commander (SADC) responsible to
of liaisons typically used in joint and
RADC. Like the AADC, RADC and SADC
multinational operations.
functions are supervisory in nature. These
individuals exercise oversight and
d. Joint Force Functional Capabilities.
direction of all air defense operations
The Marine TACC, equipped with CTAPS
within their assigned region/sector and
equipment and having access to the
coordinate air defense operations between
communications systems necessary to
regions and sectors to ensure seamless air
coordinate and distribute the joint ATO, is
defense operations throughout the joint
capable of hosting JAOC functions. The
operations area.
TACC’s ability to perform this function can
be described as an enabling or transitional
(2) Within the MACCS, the
capability. The TACC could host JAOC
SAAWC and TAOC provide the JFC with
functions as the joint force’s first principal
the capabilities to exercise RADC or SADC
V-15
functions. The TAOC provides the SAAWC
redirect efforts (e.g., the reapportionment
with the voice and data communications
and/or reallocation of any MAGTF
connectivity required to effect the
TACAIR sorties when it has been
necessary interfaces to coordinate and
determined by the JFC that they are
supervise regional and sector air defense
required for higher priority missions), and
activities effectively. The considerations
direct coordination among the
for joint/allied representatives and liaisons
subordinate commanders to ensure unity
of effort in accomplishment of the overall
addressed for a Marine JAOC apply equally
mission, or to maintain integrity of the
to RADC and SADC functions.
force. NOTE: Sorties provided for air
defense, long-range interdiction, and long-
6. Conclusion
range reconnaissance are not “excess”
sorties and will be covered in the air
a. MAGTF Aviation in Joint Opera-
tasking order. These sorties provide a
tions. In 1986, the Joint Chiefs of Staff
distinct contribution to the overall joint
endorsed the Omnibus Agreement for the
force effort. The JFC must exercise inte-
use of MAGTF aviation during sustained
grated control of air defense, long-range
reconnaissance, and interdiction aspects
operations ashore. The agreement stipu-
of the joint operation or theater campaign.
lated that the MAGTF commander retains
Excess sorties are in addition to these
OPCON of organic air assets and for
sorties.
MAGTF aviation normally to support the
MAGTF mission. The intent is to meet the
b. Air C2 in Amphibious Operations.
needs of the JFC while maintaining the
In situations where an AOA is established,
tactical and operational integrity of the
a phased passage of air C2 functions from
service organization. Since the original
afloat to ashore may occur. The phasing of
agreement, the Omnibus Agreement has
control ashore process, where Navy
been translated into Joint Publication 0-2,
Tactical Air Control System (NTACS)
Unified Action Armed Forces (UNAAF),
functions are incrementally phased to
February 1995. Portions of this policy, as
MACCS agencies as they establish ashore,
they relate to TAGS operations, follow:
is discussed in detail in Appendix D.
The Marine air-ground task force
(MAGTF) commander will retain
c. Warfighting Doctrine. The Marine
operational control of organic air assets.
Corps’ warfighting doctrine is based on
The primary mission of the MAGTF air
rapid, flexible, and opportunistic
combat element is the support of the
maneuvers. Maneuver forces seek to
MAGTF ground element. During joint
shatter the enemy’s cohesion through a
operations, the MAGTF air assets will
series of rapid, violent, and unexpected
normally be in support of the MAGTF
mission. The MAGTF commander will
actions. Marine Corps aviation operations
make sorties available to the joint force
support MAGTF operations. The combined
commander (JFC), for tasking through the
arms concept integrates various combat
joint force air component commander
arms to maximize combat power. This
(JFACC), for air defense, long-range
power presents the enemy with a no-win
interdiction, and long-range recon-
situation. To reduce vulnerability to one
naissance. Sorties in excess of MAGTF
arm of the combined power, the enemy must
direct-support requirements will be
become vulnerable to another. The
provided to the JFC for tasking through
organization employed to accomplish this
the JFACC for the support of other
is the MAGTF, with C2 of air-ground tasks
components of the joint force or the joint
force as a whole. Nothing herein shall
supplied by the MACCS and the fire
infringe on the authority of the geographic
support coordination system. The Marine
combatant or JFC in the exercise of
Corps’ unique organization allows forces to
operational control, to assign missions,
operate as a TAGS within a TAGS.
V-16
Chapter VI
SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMPONENT
1. Background
may be tasked for support depending on
mission circumstances.
Special operations (SO) are conducted
by specially organized, trained, and
a. UW. UW is a broad spectrum of
equipped military and paramilitary forces
military and paramilitary operations,
to achieve military, political, economic, or
normally of long duration, predominantly
psychological objectives by unconventional
conducted by indigenous or surrogate
military means in hostile, denied, or
forces who are organized, trained,
politically sensitive areas. These operations
equipped, supported, and directed in
are conducted during war and during
varying degrees by an external source. It
MOOTW, independently or in coordination
includes guerrilla warfare and other direct
with the operations of conventional, non-
offensive low-visibility, covert, or
SO forces. Political-military considerations
clandestine operations, as well as the
frequently shape SO requiring clandestine,
indirect activities such as subversion,
covert, or low visibility techniques and
sabotage, intelligence activities, and escape
oversight at the national level. SO differ
and evasion (E&E). It delays and disrupts
from conventional operations in degree of
hostile military activities, interdicts lines
physical and political risk, operational
of communications, denies unrestricted use
techniques, mode of employment,
of key areas, diverts attention and
independence from friendly support, and
resources from the main battle area, and
dependence on detailed operational
interdicts warfighting capabilities.
intelligence and indigenous assets. The
integration of SO into the TAGS is a
b. DA. DA missions are short-
cohesive process that includes specially
duration strikes and other small-scale
equipped aircraft, uniquely trained ground
offensive actions by SOF to seize, destroy,
forces, increased operational security
capture, recover, or inflict damage on
measures, and extensive liaison among
designated personnel or materiel. SOF may
components. Special operations forces
employ raid, ambush, or direct-assault
(SOF) forces may provide their own air
tactics; emplace mines and other
support, utilize air support of any service
munitions; conduct standoff attacks by fire
component, or provide air support for use
from air, ground, or maritime platforms;
by conventional forces.
provide terminal guidance for precision-
guided munitions; conduct independent
sabotage; and conduct antiship operations.
2. Mission
c. SR. SR and surveillance are actions
SO consist of nine principal missions:
taken by SOF to obtain or verify, by visual
unconventional warfare (UW), direct action
observation or other collection methods,
(DA), special reconnaissance (SR), foreign
information concerning the capabilities,
internal defense (FID), combating terrorism
methods, intentions, and activities of an
(CBT), counterproliferation, civil affairs,
actual or potential enemy or to secure data
PSYOP, and IW.
(SO missions may also
concerning the meteorological, hydro-
include collateral activities
and
graphic, or geographic characteristics of a
multinational support.) While SOF are
particular area. It includes target
unique; versatile; flexible; and designed
acquisition, area assessment, and post-
primarily to meet these missions,
strike reconnaissance.
conventional forces, including air power,
VI-1
d. FID. FID includes the activities by
systems, and computer-based networks
civilian and military agencies in any of the
while defending one’s own information,
action programs taken to free and protect
information-based processes, information
another government from subversion,
systems, and computer-based networks.
lawlessness, and insurgency. They are
joint, interagency, and multinational by
j. Collateral Activities. Collateral
nature. The language, cultural, and
activities in which SOF, by virtue of their
regional expertise required make
inherent capabilities, may selectively be
synchronization difficult but absolutely
tasked to participate include coalition
critical.
support, CSAR, counterdrug activities,
countermine activities, security assistance,
e. CBT. CBT are the actions, including
and humanitarian assistance. SOF can
antiterrorism (defensive measures taken to
conduct these activities only at the expense
reduce vulnerability) and counterterrorism
of their primary missions.
(offensive measure taken to prevent, deter,
and respond to terrorism), taken to oppose
3. Component Operations
terrorism throughout the entire threat
spectrum.
a. SO are marked by certain
f. Counterproliferation. Counter-
characteristics
that
cumulatively
distinguish them from
conventional
proliferation refers to actions taken to
seize, destroy, render safe, capture, or
operations. They—
recover weapons of mass destruction.
(1) Are principally offensive;
g. Civil Affairs. Civil affairs are the
usually of high physical and political risk,
activities of a commander that establish,
and directed at high-value, critical, and
maintain, influence, or exploit relations
often time-sensitive targets. They are
between military forces and civil
frequently clandestine in nature and offer
authorities, both governmental and
the potential for high returns but rarely a
nongovernmental, and the civilian
second chance should a first attempt fail.
population in a friendly, neutral, or hostile
SOF are employed when the use of
area of operations in order to facilitate
conventional forces is inappropriate or
military operations and consolidate
infeasible for either military or political
operational objectives. These activities may
reasons.
occur before or subsequent to other military
actions.
(2) Rely on surprise, security,
audacity, and frequently employ deception
h. PSYOP. PSYOP are planned opera-
to achieve success. They often require
tions to convey selected information to
responsive, joint C2 organization with
foreign audiences to influence their
detailed intelligence preparation, as well
emotions, motives, objective reasoning, and
as thorough planning, decentralized
ultimately the behavior of foreign
execution, and rigorous detailed rehearsal.
governments, organizations, groups, and
individuals. The purpose of PSYOP is to
(3) Are often conducted at great
induce or reinforce foreign attitudes and
distances from operational bases
behaviors favorable to the originator’s
employing sophisticated communication
objectives.
systems and means of insertion, support,
i. IW. IW are those actions taken to
and extraction to penetrate and return from
achieve information superiority by
hostile, denied, or politically sensitive
affecting
adversary
information,
areas. SO frequently require discriminate
information-based processes, information
and precise use of force.
VI-2
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