|
|
|
(4) May require patient, long-term
adverse weather, deep penetration of
commitment in a given operational area to
hostile areas and capable of air landing and
achieve national goals through security
air dropping personnel, equipment, and
assistance/nation-building activities or
psychological warfare materials, or
extended UW operations.
extracting personnel by airborne pickup
devices or air landing. Vertical-lift aircraft
(5) Are inherently joint and
are equipped for suppressive fire support,
frequently require integration with other
personnel recovery, and medical
US agencies or combined forces. Although
evacuation. They are also able to operate
SO may be conducted as single-service
in confined areas, employing hoist, rope
operations, they routinely require detailed
ladder, fast rope, or repelling procedures
coordination along functional rather than
to infiltrate or exfiltrate SOF ground and
service lines. Even single-service SO
maritime personnel. SOF gunships are
require joint support and coordination.
capable of providing precision night CAS
SOF, even at team and unit levels, are
as well as limited interdiction and armed
routinely involved in planning for and
reconnaissance missions in a permissive
conducting joint operations.
threat environment.
b. Organization.
(2) Terminal Guidance Operations
(TGO) are electronic, mechanical, visual, or
(1) Army Special Operations
other assistance given to aircraft, missiles,
Forces (ARSOF). ARSOF includes special
ships, and artillery elements to facilitate
forces (SF), ranger, special operations
target destruction by ground elements.
aviation (SOA), PSYOP, and civil affairs.
They may be conducted independently or
SOA rotary-wing assets include A/MH-6
in conjunction with conventional forces.
(CAS/airlift), MH-60 (CAS/airlift), and
They make joint AI and SOF ground
MH-47 (airlift) aircraft.
operations complementary. Enemy mobile
high-payoff targets that are difficult to
(2) Naval Special Warfare Forces
locate from the air are often visible to
(NAVSOF). NAVSOF includes sea air land
ground SOF. Small ground SOF elements
(SEAL) teams, SEAL delivery vehicle
can search for, verify the presence of, and
teams, special boat units, and patrol coastal
precisely report the location of high-payoff
ships.
targets. Global positioning systems, laser
designation systems, various beacon
(3) Air Force Special Operations
systems, or combinations of the above
Forces (AFSOF). AFSOF includes fixed-
provide target locations. When small SOF
and rotary-wing assets, special tactics
ground teams do not have the organic
teams (STT), PSYOP, and FID units.
combat power to engage enemy targets
AFSOF fixed-wing assets include
without compromising their positions,
AC-130H/U Spectre/Spooky Gunships (CAS/
strike aircraft or other long-range systems
interdiction/reconnaissance), EC-130H
are designated to attack them. Ground SOF
Commando Solo (PSYOP/EW), MC-130E/H
may provide precise battle damage
Combat Talon (airlift/tanker), and MC-130P
assessment of high-payoff targets that
Combat Shadow (tanker/CSAR) aircraft.
otherwise may be obscured or hidden.
Rotary-wing assets include MH-53J Pave
These operations require extensive
Low (airlift) and MH-60G Pave Hawk
coordination between the joint force special
(airlift/CSAR) aircraft.
operations component commander
(JFSOCC) and JFACC staffs. Planning for
c. SOF Capabilities.
and conducting terminal guidance
(1) SOF fixed-wing and vertical-lift
operations involve two distinct phases (see
aircraft are equipped for long-range,
Figures VI-1 and VI-2).
VI-3
ABCCC
JOINT FORCE
JF ACC
AWACS
COMMANDER
DEEP ATTACK
JFSOC
SYSTEMS
SOFDA/B/C/D
(KILLERS)
FOB
GROUND
MISSION
ELEMENT
PLANNING
AGENT
(MPA)
(HUNTERS)
CRITICAL DECISION
COORDINATION & PLANNING
JFSOC - Joint Force Special Operations Center
Figure VI-1. TGO Planning Loop
AWACS
JOINT
STARS
ABCCC
JFC
STRIKE A/C
MONITOR
JFACC
SITUATION
SOF DA
TASKER
GROUND
ELEMENT
Visual ID Target
(HUNTER)
MPA
TYPICAL EXECUTION SEQUENCE
• HUNTER LOCATES ENEMY TARGET.
• HUNTER CALLS ABCCC FOR KILLER.
• ABCCC CONTACTS KILLER, GUIDES TO JSOA.
• HUNTER PASSES CRITICAL DATA TO KILLER.
• KILLER ATTACKS TARGET.
• HUNTER PROVIDES BDA.
Figure VI-2. TGO Execution Loop
VI-4
4. Planning
planning for and receiving support from
other components is relatively easy. It is
Based on guidance from the JFC, the
far more difficult, however, for other
JFSOCC allocates forces against strategic
components that operate on shorter
or operational tasks and in support of other
planning schedules to receive support from
component commanders. The JFC may
SOF.
task the JFSOCC to conduct SO missions
or other activities, which can include
To provide clear guidance for planning
coordination of PSYOP, civil affairs, and
and executing SO, the following set of
coalition support-related activities. The
operational mission criteria has evolved.
JFSOCC anticipates theater requirements
All commanders should be familiar with
that SOF could address and recommends
these criteria and apply them to
to the JFC proactive operations to satisfy
operational planning.
those requirements. SO must be coordi-
nated and integrated with conventional
(1) Appropriate Mission. SOF
operations to enhance mission accomplish-
should be used against those key strategic
ment and prevent fratricide. Compre-
or operational targets that require SOF’s
hensive coordination and integration of SO
unique skills and capabilities. If the targets
through interface with the TAGS are
are not of operational or strategic
essential. During war, SOF will normally
importance, then SOF should not be
require support from conventional air
assigned. SOF should not be used as a
assets and may provide support to
substitute for other forces.
conventional air operations. Support from
conventional assets may include extra
(2) Support Campaign Plan. If the
refueling during deployments or long-range
mission does not support the JFC’s
missions, SEAD, diversion of enemy forces,
campaign plan, then there are probably
increased airlift capability, or ensuring air
more appropriate missions available for
and ground defenses for security of LZs or
SOF.
forward arming and refueling points. EW
or SEAD, along with CAS, may be required
(3) Operationally Feasible. SOF are
for SO infiltration or exfiltration missions.
not structured for attrition or force-on-force
CAS is normally preplanned for operations
warfare and should not be assigned
in the deep battle area. Detailed planning
missions that are beyond their capabilities.
is required to have strike aircraft
Planners must take into consideration the
accompany a SOF infiltration, to conduct
vulnerability of SOF units to larger, more
preplanned CAS missions, or to be on-call
heavily armed or mobile forces, particularly
during actions at an objective area.
in hostile territory.
Missions of this type are carefully
coordinated during the deploying SOF
(4) Required Resources Available.
unit’s mission planning procedures.
Some SOF missions require support from
Regardless of command relationships,
other forces for success. Support involves
integrating conventional aviation assets
aiding, protecting, complementing, and
into SO profiles requires advance planning
sustaining employed SOF. Support can
and extensive coordination. SOF normally
include airlift, intelligence, commun-
operate on extended planning time lines,
ications, and logistic support. Even though
normally 96 hours before execution, which
a target may be vulnerable to SOF,
should be fully considered during
deficiencies in supportability may affect the
coordination. Long planning times are
likelihood for success or may entirely
based on the increased intelligence-
invalidate the feasibility of employing SOF.
gathering activities, detailed planning, and
rehearsals that surround many SO
(5) Outcome Justifies Risk. Com-
missions. Because of the longer lead times,
manders should recognize the high value
VI-5
and limited resources of SOF and ensure
the JSOACC. Principal functions that
that the benefits of successful mission
support coordination of CAS in the SOF
execution are measurable and in balance
command system are the SOLE, the special
with the risks inherent in the mission.
operations command and control element
Assessment of risk should take into account
(SOCCE), and special operations terminal
not only the potential for loss of SOF units
attack controller (SOTAC).
and equipment but also the risk of adverse
effects on US diplomatic and political
a. The function of the SOLE is to
interest should the mission fail.
coordinate, deconflict, and integrate SOF
air and surface activities with the JFACC.
5. Command and Control
Additionally, it is responsible for including
all SOF air activity on the ATO. The SOLE
The CINC, United States Special
reconciles duplicative targeting, resolves
Operations Command
(USSOCOM),
airspace conflicts, and prevents fratricide.
The SOLE works directly for the JFSOCC
maintains combatant command (COCOM)
but is collocated with the JFACC. LNOs
authority over SOF based in the continental
are placed throughout the JAOC. Under
United States. USSOCOM trains assigned
forces in SO-unique subjects, develops and
the direction of the SOLE chief, these
acquires SO-unique equipment and
liaison officers provide SOF air and surface
expertise throughout the JAOC. Because
materiel, and provides these forces to the
the JFSOCC and the JFACC share a
theater CINCs or JFCs as required. In
common environment (the deep battlefield),
certain situations, the NCA may direct
USSOCOM to plan and conduct SO
SOF aviation and surface assets must be
autonomously or as the supported
integrated into joint air planning and
operations.
commander. To provide the necessary
unity of command, each geographic
combatant commander has established a
b. The SOCCE is normally employed
subunified command to serve as the
when SOF conduct operations in support
functional SO component for the theater.
of a conventional force, such as an Army
The theater SOC performs broad
Corps or a MAGTF. It collocates with the
continuous missions uniquely suited to SOF
CP of the supported commander and
capabilities that are of strategic and
performs C2 or liaison functions. The
operational importance to the geographic
SOCCE normally remains under the
combatant commander. The theater SOC
OPCON of the JFSOCC. The SOCCE can
normally exercises OPCON of all assigned
receive operational intelligence and target
SOF in theater. When the geographic
acquisition reports directly from deployed
combatant commander designates a JFC,
SOF elements and provide them to the
the theater SOC may be designated as the
supported headquarters.
JFSOCC. The JFSOCC will control
assigned SOF as well as any conventional
c. SO combat controllers assigned to
assets provided by the JFC in support of
STTs are trained and certified to perform
specific missions. Tactical control of SOF
terminal control responsibilities. SOTAC
air assets is normally exercised by the Air
CAS training emphasizes night infrared,
Force special operations component
laser, and beacon equipment. Additionally,
(AFSOC) commander, the Army SOA
SOF surface teams can perform the
commander, or the joint special operations
terminal guidance function. For remotely
air component commander (JSOACC), when
deployed SOF units, requests for CAS will
designated. The JFSOCC normally
be passed through the most expedient,
designates the SOF component commander
direct,
and available means of
with the preponderance of aviation assets
communications. Requests will normally
and the means to control those assets as
be to an airborne platform such as an
VI-6
ABCCC or AWACS. To satisfy these
coordination, mission execution, as well as
requests, the ABCCC or AWACS will
provide training on US C3 systems/
coordinate with the appropriate agencies.
methods if needed.
d. SOF combat advisors coordinate
6. Conclusion
coalition support with US activities. SOF,
which routinely work with multinational
SOF provide the JFC with unique
forces, can be instrumental in ensuring that
capabilities to conduct operations in the
US air support is efficiently and
deep battle area. Because SOF share a
appropriately provided in support of allied
common environment with the joint air
forces. AFSOC maintains regionally
forces, their efforts must be closely
focused liaison teams, specially trained to
coordinated and integrated and liaison
integrate allies and coalition partners into
efforts must be conducted to fully leverage
the TACS. They can assist their host nation
SO capabilities and avoid fratricide.
counterparts with planning, ATO
VI-7
Chapter VII
THEATER AIR-GROUND SYSTEM OPERATIONS
1. Background
planning guidance and procedures;
appropriate command and movement
The preceding chapters describe how
control; joint fire support coordinating
the JFC may organize and control the joint
measures; ROE; and what defines
component direct support sorties. This
force and how the various components
guidance will also include the JFC’s
contribute to the TAGS. This chapter
apportionment decision. Apportionment is
describes how the TAGS supports air-
ground planning, targeting, tasking,
the determination and assignment of all air
execution, and CA. It concludes with a
sorties in support of the joint air effort by
priority and/or percentage that should be
discussion of TAGS air defense related
devoted to the various air operations (for
operations.
example, strategic attack, AI, counterair,
2. JFC Influence
maritime support, and CAS) and/or
geographic areas for a given period of time.
The JFC influences the structure and
Apportionment impacts all aspects of TAGS
the direction of TAGS in several ways,
operations. The JFACC, in consultation
including designating a JFACC, ACA, and
with other component commanders, is
AADC; assigning missions; and apportion-
responsible for the apportionment
ing forces.
recommendation to the JFC. Each
component commander may be tasked to
a. The duties and responsibilities of
support other components and or to provide
the JFACC, ACA, and AADC remain the
support to the joint force as a whole. The
same regardless of whether the MARFOR,
JFC’s guidance and objectives, with
NAVFOR, or AFFOR perform the function.
accompanying apportionment decision, is
However as explained in previous chapters,
disseminated to all components.
the MARFOR’s or NAVFOR’s JAOC
capacity is limited. This has a direct
3. Planning
bearing on the size of liaison elements,
although all of the elements depicted in
Component C2 elements are combined
Figure VII-1 will be represented. Table
to form the TAGS, as depicted in Figure
VII-1 indicates functional equivalency
VII-1. Joint force components must work
(equivalent capacity not implied) of TAGS
together in planning and executing joint air
agencies across the services. This, along
operations that accomplish JFC-assigned
with information in Chapters II through VI,
objectives, comply with JFC guidance, and
can be helpful in understanding where and
satisfy various component commanders’
how assets interfaces with various JFACC
requirements. The challenge to personnel
options.
working within TAGS is to operate a
system responsive to all components and
b. The JFC directs the weight of the
supported echelons to accomplish the JFC’s
joint air effort, by providing guidance and
campaign objectives. The JFACC struc-
objectives that
identify targeting
tures the TAGS based on capabilities
priorities; joint target list (JTL)/JIPTL
provided by the various components.
VII-1
JFC
JOC
STRATLAT
AWACS
JSTARS
LNO
SOC
NAVFOR/
ARFOR
MARFOR/
AFFOR/
JFACC
JFACC
JFACC
CRC
AMLS
JAOC
ADA
ARSOC
AFSOC
NSOC
XXXX
CRE
ADA
BCD
ARMY
BDE
SOLE
CP
XXX
NALE
CWC
DOCC
ADA
CORPS
MARLO
STT
CTF/OTC
BN
XX
AME
TALCE
CP
SOCCE
DIV
SLO
FSE
X
CP
BDE
FSE ANGLICO
A2C2
II
CP
A2C2
TACP
ASOC
WOC
GLO
CVBG
BN
FSE
ANGPLT
TACP
MAGTF/MEF
AIRBASES
CATF
JAOC
TACC
SACC
CP
A2C2
FFCC
FSE
TACP
TADC
A2C2
TACP
SALT
CSSE
FAWC
ABCCC
SAWC
FAC(A)/TAC(A)
LNO
ACE
TACC/
TACC
TADC
LAWC
SACC
JAOC
XX
SAAWC/TAOC
GCE/DIV
DASC
MATCD
DASC(A)
NOTES/LEGEND:
III
CP
RGT
FSCC
ASC(A)
EW/C
TAC(A)
• INTENT IS TO SHOW INFORMATION FLOW AND
II
CP
TACP
COMPLEXITY OF TAGS PROCESS.
BN
FSCC
NGFO
•
JFACC DESIGNATED BY JFC. JAOC MA
I
CP
TACP
LAAD BN
TMD DET
TACP/FAC(A)
SEA-BASED DEPENDING ON JFACC DESIGNATION.
CO
NGFO
HST
FSCC
•
SIZE OF LIAISON ELEMENTS WILL DEPE
FAC
TACP
ON JFACC DESIGNATION AND JAOC LOCATION AND
STINGER
AVENGER
NGFO
CAPACITY.
•
COORDINATION LINKS FOR STRATEGIC
Tactical Air
THEATER AIRLIFT
Request Net
•
COORDINATION LINKS
Figure VII-1. TAGS Coordination Links
Table VII-1. Functional Equivalents
NAVY
MARINE
AIR FORCE
ARMY
TACC
TACC
AOC
DOCC
FAWC
TAOC
CRC
ADA TOC
SAWC
EW /C
CRE
ADA TAC
CG/DDG
TMD DET
ADA
SACC
FSCC
FSE
ASCS
DASC
ASOC
G-3 AIR
DASC(A)
ABCCC
TACP
TACP
FIST
TAC(A)
TAC(A)
FO
FAC(A)
FAC(A)
FO
HAWKEYE
AWACS
This ch art depicts functional equivalent ag encies/elements/centers in terms of similarity of
ta sks a ccom plishe d. It does no t im ply that e quivalenc y in term s of s ize, m anpow er, or
capabilities.
a. Planning. Figure VII-2 overlays
(2) D3A is the targeting
varying targeting methodologies affecting
methodology used by the Army and Marine
the TAGS and the conduct of joint air
Corps. D3A follows the same logic as the
operations. To be effective, the joint
joint targeting process but in four steps
targeting process and the joint ATO cycles
instead of six. The arrows surround the
must be synchronized.
joint targeting process in Figure VII-2
represent D3A.
(Chapter II gave a more
(1) Targeting is the process of
detailed discussion of this methodology.)
selecting targets and matching the
appropriate response to them. The
(3) The joint ATO cycle and joint
objective of the joint targeting process is to
targeting process are not synonymous.
ensure an effective and efficient joint attack
The joint ATO cycle is used to provide
against the enemy with all available assets
efficient and effective employment of all
maximized to achieve the overall objective.
joint air assets for all air missions to
Targeting is complicated by the
include AI and CAS. Because AI and CAS
requirement to deconflict duplicative
are inextricably tied to the joint targeting
targeting by different forces or different
process, the ATO cycle and targeting
echelons within the same force and to
processes must correlate. The six steps
synchronize the attack of those targets with
of the joint ATO cycle are also shown in
other components of the joint force. The
Figure VII-2. (Chapter III and Joint
six steps of the joint targeting process are
Publication
3-56.1 discuss the ATO
depicted in Figure VII-2.
development cycle.)
VII-3
D3A
COMMANDER’S OBJECTIVE
& GUIDANCE
ASSESS
DECIDE
JFC/C OMPONENT
COORDINATION
TARGET
COMBAT
DEVELOPMENT
ASSESSMENT
JOINT
TARGET
COMBAT
DEVELOPMENT
ASSESSMENT
TARGETING
PROCESS
ATO
DEVELOPMENT
EXECUTION
W EAPO NEERING
CYCL
E
PLANNING/
ASSESSMENT
FORCE
EXECUTION
WEAPONEERING/
ALLOCATION
FORCE
EXECUTION
FO RCE APPLIC AT IO N
DELIVER
DETECT
JOINT ATO
DEVELOPMENT
Figure VII-2. ATO Cycle Overlaid on Targeting Cycles
b. Each component is involved in
and often shut down on the ground for a
targeting. Components determine support
period of time before resuming their
requirements and make sorties not needed
mission. They are critical to the execution
by the service component available to the
and success of the land commander’s
JFC for tasking by the JFACC. In addition
operations and often provide the decisive
to generating air support requirements, all
edge during fluid, volatile, and changing
components participate in operational
situations. It is vital to integrate all Army
planning and mission execution. The
aviation missions into the TAGS and ATO
JFACC performs a key role in this process
processes in a way that promotes their
as the functional component commander
effectiveness without restricting or
responsible for planning, coordinating,
hindering the multifaceted contribution
deconflicting, and directing joint air
they can make.
operations.
(2) Maritime Component Consider-
4. Component Considerations
ations for CVBG Air Support. As
described in Chapter IV and Appendix D,
The following considerations pertain to
when an AOA is established, the CATF
the JFC’s determination of sorties available
maintains overall authority for operations
for joint tasking:
within the AOA and exercises command
authority over the entire assault task force
(1) Army Considerations. Rotary-
(ATF). The CATF will consolidate Marine
wing aircraft have unique characteristics
that often make it difficult to integrate them
Corps air requests within ATF resources
into an ATO. They can conduct multiple
and will internally obtain Navy air support
takeoffs and landings in a single fuel load
from the supporting CVBG. The CVBG will
VII-4
inform the CATF if there is a problem in
for the planning, coordination, allocation,
supporting the requirements. The CATF
and tasking of joint air missions/sorties
will then submit the unfulfilled air support
within the guidance of the JFC (see Figure
requirements to the joint ATO planning
VII-3). The cycle accommodates changing
process. Once control is passed ashore, the
tactical situations or JFC guidance, as well
MAGTF/commander will request air
as requests for support from other
support in excess of the MAGTF’s direct
component commanders. The joint ATO
air support capabilities from the CVBG or
cycle is an analytical, systematic process
JFACC, as required.
that matches available capabilities/forces
with targets to achieve operational
(3) Air Force Component Consider-
objectives. The joint ATO cycle begins with
ations. All Air Force component assets will
the JFC’s guidance and objectives and
normally be available for JFC/JFACC
culminates with the CA of previous
tasking. Coordination of strategic airlift
missions/sorties. While an ATO itself
missions involving forces not assigned/
covers a specific period, the ATO planning
attached to the joint force (such as those
process is continuous. At any given time,
aircraft remaining under OPCON/TACON
an AOC and liaison elements will be
of United States Transportation Command
working with three or more ATOs:
[USTRANSCOM]) remains an Air Force
executing the current days operation;
component responsibility and is
planning for tomorrow’s operation; and
accomplished through the AME, normally
forecasting, coordinating, and planning the
located with the COMAFFOR’s AOC. The
follow-on day’s operations. The long-range
Air Force AOC and AME will coordinate
planners, working on the third day and
planned airlift operations with the JFACC/
beyond, develop apportionment and AI
ACA/AADC. Initial CSAR is currently a
targeting recommendations to the JFC.
service responsibility. The JFACC will
Figure VII-3 depicts how the ATO cycles
coordinate with the joint search and rescue
overlap. The fact that three or more ATOs
center
(JSRC) and component rescue
may be in different stages of development
coordination centers as appropriate for the
at any given time means communications
conduct of CSAR air operations.
pertaining to the ATO must be precise. The
Appropriate assets may be diverted from
timing of the JFC’s apportionment decision
JFACC tasking for rescue missions as
and ATO cycle allows the supported
coordinated with the JSRC.
component commander to inform
subordinates of their respective priorities
(4) SOF Considerations. Normally,
for the air effort. The six phases of the joint
all SOF operations are planned, controlled,
ATO cycle include—JFC/component
and executed by the JFSOCC. SOF will not
coordination,
target development,
normally be tasked to conduct joint air
weaponeering/allocation, joint ATO
operations. However, because SOF operate
development, force execution, and CA.
deep, planners must consider the ongoing
and future operations of all components to
a. JFC/Component Coordination. The
take advantage of operational synergies.
JFC/component coordination phase starts
All sorties flown by SOF should appear on
with receipt of the JFC’s guidance and
the ATO for deconfliction and coordination
objectives that is normally received 36-48
purposes.
hours before the beginning of the air
tasking day. The JFC normally informs the
5. ATO Cycle
components of apportionment decision
through a guidance and intentions message.
A joint ATO cycle is used to provide the
Based on this message, the units will
effective and efficient employment of the
respond with allocation request
joint air capabilities/forces made available.
(ALLOREQs) messages to tell the JFACC
The cycle provides a repetitive process
what they can support.
VII-5
b. Target Development. Target Devel-
(a) Preplanned and immediate refer
opment produces a prioritized list of
to the requests themselves. Preplanned
targets—the JIPTL—that supports the
requests are those submitted in time to be
objectives and conforms to guidance. The
included in the published joint ATO.
culmination of this phase occurs when
Immediate requests fulfill operational
specific targets are approved and included
requirements that are too late to be
in the joint ATO and assigned to forces
published in the daily joint ATO.
made available for joint air operations.
Components use the Target Information
(b) Scheduled missions refer to those
Report
(TGTINFOREP) to nominate
missions in the ATO with specific set
targets, submit post strike assessment
targets, time-on-target (TOT), or mission
information, and report data changes to
times, target descriptions, target
existing targets. Components also use this
coordinates, and weapons standard
message to recommend no-strike targets
conventional load (SCL) identifiers. On-
and to cancel or renew targets. Normally,
call missions are those that require the
components submit target nominations to
exact time and place to be coordinated as
the JFACC no later than 26 hours before
the battle develops. On-call CAS allows the
the start of the joint air tasking day.
requesting commander to indicate a time
frame, probable target type, and place
c. Weaponeering/Allocation. Weap-
where the need for CAS is most likely. They
oneering/allocation involves quantifying
involve aircraft placed on an appropriate
the expected results of lethal and nonlethal
alert status (on the ground or airborne) and
weapons employment against targets on
then employed when requested by the
the JIPTL. This means detailing on
supported unit. Aircraft used to fill
“weaponeering” worksheets recommended
immediate requests normally come from
aim points or desired mean point of impact
on-call missions established for this
(DMPI), recommended number/type air-
purpose. Supported commanders are
craft and weapons, fusing, target
advised to submit preplanned requests for
identification and description, target attack
on-call missions to ensure availability of
objectives, target area threats, and pro-
sufficient sorties with appropriate
bability of destruction. The final prioritized
ordnance to respond to subordinate units’
targets are then included into the MAAP.
immediate requests.
The resulting MAAP is the plan of employ-
ment that forms the foundation of the joint
(2) The allocation portion occurs
ATO. Supported components of the joint
following the JFC’s air apportionment
force prepare preplanned target requests
decision. The JFACC translates that
for the next air tasking day with the air
decision into total numbers of sorties by
support request (AIRSUPREQ) message.
aircraft or weapon type available for each
These are transmitted to the AOC not later
operation/task they support. The allocation
than 24 hours before the air tasking day
process is accomplished through exchange
(0600 local [L]) or earlier, as prescribed by
of ALLOREQ messages between compo-
theater OPLAN or as directed by the JFC.
nents. These messages address three areas:
As additional information regarding the
requested target becomes available, the
(a) On the basis of the JFC’s air
requesting component will forward the
apportionment decision; internal require-
information to the tasked component using
ments; and AIRSUPREQ messages, each air
a AIRSUPREQ message.
capable component prepares an allocation
request
(ALLOREQ) message for
(1) Requesters must be able to
transmission to the JFACC/JFC staff
differentiate
between the terms
(normally not less than 24 hours before the
"preplanned and immediate" and
air tasking day). ALLOREQ messages
"scheduled and on-call."
report the number of sorties to be flown
VII-7
during the air tasking day and is reported
should be determined by the needs of
by assigned mission and type of aircraft.
various operations not necessarily a
uniform distribution among units.
(b) Sorties not needed by the
d. Joint ATO Development. Joint ATO
service component and available to the JFC
development is a complex process in which
for tasking by the JFACC.
JFC and JFACC guidance, target
(c) Requests for additional air
worksheets, MAAP, and component
support beyond the capability of the air
requirements are used to finalize the ATO,
capable components.
SPINS, and the ACO provided by the ACA
(see Appendix B for how to “breakout” an
(3) The JFACC reviews each
ATO and Joint Publication 3-56.1 for more
service component’s ALLOREQ message
information on ATO development). Twelve
and transmits a sortie allotment
hours before the air tasking day begins
(SORTIEALOT) message for transmission
(1800L) the JFACC transmits the entire
12-18 hours before the air tasking day
plan for the tasked day’s operation. This
(1200L) or as prescribed by theater plans.
may be accomplished using either an
This message informs all commands which
ATO/confirmation (ATOCONF) message or
mission requests will be fulfilled and which
the request confirmation message
will be delayed during this cycle. The
(REQCONF). The ACO, discussed later in
SORTIEALOT message addresses three
this chapter, is often transmitted with an
issues:
ATO. The joint ATO conveys C2 instruct-
ions, coordination guidance, deconfliction
(a) Revisions to a service
instructions, and specific mission
component’s planned allocation of sorties
information. Mission information includes
due to unforeseen joint force requirements.
primary and backup targets, TOT or alert
windows, refueling data, radio frequencies,
(b) Approval/disapproval of
and weapons load guidelines. Operations
component requests and allotment of other
personnel in the AOC, CRCs, AWACS,
component’s excess sorties to fill the
Joint STARS, ABCCC, ASOC, DASC, and
approved air support requests or other
other C2 facilities use the joint ATO to
requirements for the joint force. Note: The
monitor and assist in the execution of
sorties provided to the JFACC for tasking
missions, monitor supporting missions and
are considered returned to the parent
activities, manage unforeseen problems
service component if the JFACC does not
caused by the fog of war, and respond to
allot them in a SORTIEALOT message.
approved immediate support requests. The
(c) Revisions to mission data for
joint ATO helps to focus the intelligence
component requests, such as a changed
collection management process for national,
mission priority or TOT, usually the result
theater, and component intelligence assets.
from coordination between the components
It is valid for a specified effective period—
and the JAOC staff.
normally a 24-hour period, (for example,
0600L hours to 0600L hours).
(4) CAS Sortie Distribution. The
JFACC allocates total numbers of sorties
e. Force Execution. The JFACC directs
to a given mission based on the JFC’s
the execution and/or deconflicts all
apportionment decision. Sorties assigned
capabilities/forces made available for a
as CAS missions are then provided to the
given joint ATO. The JAOC must be
LCC who makes the distribution decision.
responsive to required changes during the
This is a further subdivision of the
execution of the joint ATO. In-flight
allocation process in which sorties
reports and initial BDA may cause a
allocated to CAS are distributed among the
redirecting of joint air capabilities/forces
various ground combat units. Distribution
before launch or a redirection once
VII-8
airborne. During execution, the JAOC is
aircraft will produce competition for the
the central agency for revising the tasking
same airframes for CA missions or for the
of joint air capabilities/forces and
delivery of ordnance. Changes to the joint
coordinating and deconflicting those
ATO must be closely coordinated with
intelligence data collection to ensure
changes with the appropriate control
changes to targets and TOTs are
agencies or components. When a need
incorporated into the CA plan.
arises that cannot be met with assigned on-
call missions, supported commanders may
6. Interdiction
make an immediate request. The JFACC
will evaluate the request against the JFC’s
Interdiction is an action to divert,
campaign plan and overall concept of
disrupt, delay, or destroy the enemy's
operations. If the request is of sufficient
potential before it can be used effectively
priority, the mission is filled by retasking
against friendly forces. Appropriate
scheduled or alert assets. The JFACC will
interdiction targets may include but are not
notify the affected component commanders,
limited to surface forces; C4I systems;
as appropriate, in the event changes are
installations and facilities; transportation
made to the planned joint air operations
and supply systems; lines of communi-
during execution.
cations (LOC); and other vital resources
and infrastructure. The desired objectives
f. CA. CA is accomplished at all levels.
of interdiction are diversion, disruption,
The JFACC or JFC staff continuously
delay, and destruction of enemy surface
evaluates the results of joint air operations
military potential by either lethal or
and provides these to the JFC for
nonlethal means.
consolidation and overall evaluation of the
campaign. Normally, the JTF’s J-2 directs
AI operations are defined as air
the actual dissemination guidelines for all
operations conducted to destroy,
reports. Whenever feasible, reports should
neutralize, or delay the enemy’s military
be provided directly to the JFACC, JFC,
potential before it can be brought to bear
and the initial requester to assist in air
effectively against friendly forces. AI
operations planning. CA collection
generally occurs at such a distance from
requirements must be determined during
friendly forces that detailed integration of
target prioritization. Component com-
each air mission with the fire and
manders should recommend priorities for
movement of those forces is not required.
the CA efforts and/or areas for which they
have responsibility. The CA effort should
The JFC ultimately approves the
be a joint program designed to determine
integration of joint interdiction operations
if the required target effects are being
with execution of other joint force
achieved consistent with the JFCs overall
operations. To ensure unity of command
concept. Mission results obtained through
and effort throughout a theater and/or JOA,
the multitude of CA sources are analyzed
the JFC normally delegates the planning
and provide the JFC, JFACC, and other
and execution of theater- and/or JOA-wide
senior commanders feedback on the success
interdiction operations to the component
of the JFC’s campaign. These results
commander with the preponderance of
provide the inputs for CA reinitiation
interdiction assets within range and with
through updated guidance from the
the ability to control them. In most cases,
JFC and JFACC, subsequent target
this is the JFACC who then becomes the
development, weaponeering/allocation,
supported commander for the JFC’s overall
force execution, and CA until the desired
AI effort. For a more detailed discussion
end state is achieved. Note: The introduc-
on interdiction operations see Joint
tion of reconnaissance pod systems into
the service component inventories and the
Publication
3-03, Doctrine for Joint
retirement of dedicated reconnaissance
Interdiction Operations.
VII-9
friendly forces from attack by manned/
7. Defensive Counterair
unmanned aircraft and missiles. The JFC
a. Air defense includes all defensive
will provide guidance and objectives,
measures designed to destroy attacking
including apportionment decisions,
enemy aircraft or missiles in the earth’s
establish ROE, and designate air defense
envelope of atmosphere or to nullify or
priorities for the joint force.
reduce the effects of such attack. The
(1) JFC Staff. Within the function
desired end state of an effective air defense
of AAD, (in coordination with the AADC, if
effort is to allow friendly forces freedom of
designated) the joint force staff will assist
action by gaining air superiority at the
the JFC by conducting command, control,
desired time and place of the commander’s
communications, computers and intel-
choosing. An effective theater air defense
ligence (C4I) systems; planning for the
system includes those resources and
acquisition and dissemination of defense
procedures necessary to provide the JFC
warning information; deconflicting AAD
with the ability to detect, identify, and
with other operations; providing logistical
destroy enemy air threats, whether by
support for AAD; and preparing long range
manned or unmanned aircraft or by theater
plans for AAD.
missiles. Unity of effort and the tenet of
centralized control and decentralized
(2) AADC. The JFC normally
execution are necessary to meeting this end.
assigns overall responsibility for joint air
Air defense can be either passive or active
defense to a single commander designated
in nature.
the AADC. Normally, the AADC is the
component commander with the
(1) Passive. Passive air defense
preponderance of air defense capability and
provides individual and collective pro-
the C4I capability to plan, coordinate, and
tection for friendly forces and critical
execute integrated air defense operations.
assets. Passive air defense is the respons-
Because of the integrated relationship
ibility of every commander in the joint
between airspace control measures and air
force. Elements of passive air defense
defense operations, ACA and AADC duties
include—early warning; camouflage,
normally should be performed by the same
concealment, and deception; hardening;
person, who may also be the JFACC. The
reconstitution; and redundancy. Passive air
JFC will define the support relationship
defense measures do not involve the
between the AADC and supporting
employment of lethal weapons but do
commanders. Components will provide
improve survivability.
representatives, as appropriate, to the
(2) Active. Active air defense is
AADC’s headquarters to provide specific
direct defensive action taken to destroy,
weapons system expertise as well as
nullify, or reduce the effectiveness of
broader mission expertise.
hostile air and missile threats against
(3) Component Commanders. Com-
friendly forces and assets. Integrated
ponent commanders provide the AADC
employment of air-to-air and surface-to-air
with surface, air, and sea-based active air
weapon systems through coordinated
defense capabilities and forces to
detection, identification, assessment,
implement the air defense plan. Com-
interception, and engagement of air and
ponent commanders generally retain
missile threats is necessary to counter
OPCON of their forces and capabilities and
enemy attacks. A rapid, reliable, and
will employ them in accordance with the
secure means of identification within the
air defense plan and the weapons control
airspace control area is necessary to the
procedures and measures established by
survival of friendly forces.
the AADC.
b. Command Relationships. The JFC
c. Air Defense Plan. The AADC, with
uses air defense operations to protect
the support and coordination of the service
VII-10
and functional commanders, develops;
(7) Tactical interface (for example,
integrates; and distributes a JFC approved
TADIL) design.
joint air defense plan. The air defense plan
(8) Dissemination of early warning.
integrates the active air defense
capabilities of the joint force’s components
d. Area Air Defense Operations. The
to provide a responsive air defense system
depth and breadth of AAD and the inherent
that will achieve operational and tactical
ability for air defense targets to cross
objectives. The air defense plan reflects the
component areas of operations make air
priorities established by the JFC. Because
defense operations a joint endeavor. The
air defense and airspace control and
AADC, in coordination with component
management are inherently related areas,
commanders, recommends establishment
the air defense plan, ACP, and air
of air defense regions to the JFC. The
operations plan should be developed in
number of regions and RADCs may vary
concert to avoid conflicts. The air defense
depending upon geographical, political, and
plan addresses
(this list is not
operational factors such as—friendly
exhaustive)—
forces, geography, threat, and the concept
of operations. For example, the AADC may
(1) Sensor employment.
recommend that an Aegis crusier perform
(2) Identification procedures.
RADC duties for the maritime region of the
JOA. Air defense regions may be further
(3) Engagement procedures.
subdivided into sectors, with sector air
(4) Airspace control measures.
defense commanders (SADCs) coordinating
activities within their sector (see Figure
(5) Weapons control procedures.
VII-4 for an example of region and sector
(6) Weapons system employment.
air defense assignments).
X
SADC
ADA
BDE
SADC
TAOC
RADC
CRE
SAAWC
SADC
(TAOC)
RADC
AADC
MARFOR
CRC
JAOC
ARFOR
RADC
FAWC
PORT
Figure VII-4. Notional AAD Organization
VII-11
(1) Tactical Operational Data. In
missions to each RADC to perform DCA
conjunction with the air defense plan, the
functions. RADCs in turn distributes
AADC periodically publishes a tactical
missions to subordinate SADCs, depending
operational data (TACOPDAT) message to
on expected threat actions within their
establish air defense responsibilities in a
sector. SADCs may further distribute DCA
tactical area or to provide supplementary
missions to air defense control agencies
air defense orders to an area of
within their sector. It is the responsibility
responsibility, to include air defense
of the controlling agency to execute the air
procedures. Among the information
defense mission through the coordination,
included in the TACOPDAT are unit
control, and integration of aircraft and
designations for RADCs and SADCs;
surface-to-air weapon systems under their
methods of control; identification
direction.
procedures and the identification authority;
(d) RADCs and SADCs coordi-
and updates to fighter, missile, and/or joint
nate air defense actions between regions
engagement zones. The latter procedures
and sectors, by evaluating the results of
should be coordinated with the ACA and
engagements within their sector or region
included in the ACO and SPINS portions
and forward observations and results of
of the ATO.
engagements to the AADC; requesting from
(2) Execution.
the AADC or direct (when authorized)
changes to air defense alert and weapons
(a) The AADC, RADC, and
release conditions commensurate to the
SADC have the ability to coordinate active
threat; and when required, requesting
air defense operations at the lowest level
additional air defense assets from the
necessary. This concept of centralized
AADC. In turn, the AADC provides RADCs
control
(AADC) and decentralized
with guidance and direction for air defense
execution
(RADC/SADC) promotes
warning conditions and weapons release
coordinated operations and economy of
conditions; changes to the ROE; allocates
force while allowing decisions to be made
additional resources (as necessary). The
at the lowest level possible, thereby
AADC also requests additional airborne air
reducing the reaction time to threats and
defense coverage from the JFACC as
the likelihood of friendly losses.
needed.
(b) Based on the JFC’s air
(3) COP. Air defense actions,
defense priorities and other factors
although designed to prevent attack of
including available resources, the AADC
friendly forces by enemy air attacks, should
builds an air defense plan designed to
also prevent fratricide. Many positive and
optimize the joint force’s air defense
procedural methods exist to minimize the
capabilities against enemy air attack.
chances of friend on friend engagements
When employing the various resources, the
including: airspace control measures;
AADC considers factors such as mutual
identification, friend or foe (IFF); and
support—support units provide each other
positive hostile identification devices. A
against the threat—and destruction in
common frame of reference is an absolute
depth (that is, that ability to engage the
necessity for air defense units to integrate
enemy as far from its target as possible and
actions and minimize the chances of
to continue to engage the enemy threat with
fratricide. The common frame of reference
various weapons until the target is
is provided through two media: the ATO
destroyed).
and the COP. The ATO provides all users
(c) The JFACC allocates a
with a plan for air operations, delineating
IFF modes and codes, routes of flight, and
percentage of aircraft to perform DCA
missions based on the JFC’s apportionment
mission/target areas. The COP combines
decision. The AADC typically allocates
information from various sensors and
VII-12
reporting devices to build a comprehensive
component, and functional component
air, ground, and sea picture of the
procedures and systems for air-ground
battlespace. Air defense units contribute
operations. The TAGS is not a formal
to the COP through the theater’s data link
system in itself but the actual sum of
architecture.
various component air-ground systems.
The TAGS enables the delivery of the
A coordinated, comprehensive data link
maximum amount of combat power to the
picture is a necessity to minimize chances
desired place at the right time. To
of fratricide while enhancing early warning
accomplish this, everyone working within
and engagement control and coordination.
the TAGS must understand each
The AADC periodically publishes the
component’s capabilities, limitations, and
Operational Tasking Data Links
contributions to the overall system as well
(OPTASKLINK) message to establish
as competing and overlapping mission
relationships, configurations, coordination
requirements. Everyone must strive to
procedures, and other information
make the TAGS work by knowing system
necessary to conduct data link operations.
and coordination requirements, what is
required to make the system work, and who
8. Conclusion
to contact when coordination is required.
The preceding chapters and paragraphs
This document should assist TAGS
have described the joint force, service
practitioners in this process.
VII-13
Appendix A
PROCEDURAL CONTROL MEASURES
1. Airspace Control Measures
airspace in which there is a concentrated
employment of weapons and airspace users.
a. Coordinating Altitude. A procedural
The zone has defined dimensions that
method to separate fixed- and rotary-wing
usually coincide with geographical features/
aircraft by determining an altitude below
navigational aids. Access to an air defense
which fixed-wing aircraft normally will not
weapon control status within a HIDACZ is
fly and above which rotary-wing aircraft
normally controlled by the requesting
normally will not fly. It may include a buffer
authority (see Figure A-2).
zone for small altitude deviations and
extends from the forward edge of the
c. Restricted Operations Area (ROA)/
communications zone to the forward line of
Restricted Operations Zone (ROZ). ROAs
own troops (FLOT). Fixed- or rotary-wing
and ROZs are synonymous terms for
aircraft planning extended penetration of
defining a volume of airspace set aside for a
this altitude will notify the appropriate
specific operational mission or requirement.
airspace control facility. However, approval
This procedure restricts some or all airspace
acknowledgment is not required before
users from this area until termination of the
fixed-wing aircraft may operate below the
mission. It is normally used for drop or
coordinating altitude or rotary-wing aircraft
landing zone activity, search and rescue
may operate above the coordinating altitude
operations, SEMA, etc. Controlling
(see Figure A-1).
authority requirements for the ROA/ROZ
are similar to those required for a HIDACZ
b. High Density Airspace Control Zone
(see Figure A-1).
(HIDACZ). HIDACZ is defined area of
AIRSPACE COORDINATION AREA
ROZ
COORDINATING ALTITUDE
ROA
Figure A-1. Coordinating Altitude, ROA, and ROZ
A-1
d. Standard Use Army Aircraft Flight
e. Minimum Risk Routes
(MRRs).
Routes (SAAFRs). SAAFRs are routes
MRRs are temporary corridors of defined
established below the coordinating altitude
dimensions recommended for use by high-
to allow the Army commanders to safely
speed, fixed-wing aircraft that presents the
route movement of their aviation assets
minimum known hazards to low flying
performing combat support and combat
aircraft transiting the theater airspace.
service support missions. Although jointly
MRRs normally extend from the corps rear
recognized, these routes do not need
boundary to the FSCL. Low level transit
airspace control authority approval.
routes (LLTRs) are employed in a similar
SAAFRs normally are located in the corps
fashion in NATO (see Figure A-3).
through brigade rear areas but may be
extended to support logistics missions (see
Figure A-2).
HIDACZ
FLOT
XX
XX
SAAFR
XX
Figure A-2. SAAFR and HIDACZ
MRR
FSCL
FSCL
FLOT
FLOT
Figure A-3. Minimum Risk Routes
A-2
2. Army Standard Operational
Tactical Data System (NTDS) cruiser in the
surveillance area.
Procedures
b. Return-to-Force (RTF) Profile. RTF
a. Air Corridor (AC). AC is restricted
profile is specific maneuvers/tracks friendly
air route of travel specified for use by
aircraft will fly returning to the fleet in order
friendly Army aircraft and established to
to reduce the possibility of being engaged
prevent friendly forces from firing on
by friendly surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) or
friendly aircraft.
fighters in the fleet air defense network.
Instructions
(altitudes, course, speed,
b. Air Axis. Air axis is similar to a
ingress points, safety corridors, and
ground axis of advance, assigned for
approach sectors) are defined in operations
purposes of control, which graphically
messages generated by the AWC.
depicts a commander’s intentions.
c. Joining Procedures. Similar to RTF
c. Air Control Point/Aerial Check Point.
procedures, these instructions are followed
Air control point/aerial check point is a
by friendly, nonorganic aircraft in order to
predetermined point on the ground used as
ensure safe passage through the fleet
a means of coordinating or controlling
surveillance area en route to support fleet
friendly Army aircraft movement.
operations.
d. Initial Point (IP)/Release Point (RP).
d. Amphibious Objective Area (AOA).
IP/RP are predetermined points on the
An AOA is a geographical area delineated
ground used to initiate a control procedure
in the initiating directive for purposes of C2.
(IP) or terminate the conduct of a control
The objectives of the amphibious task force
procedure (RP).
(ATF) are located within this area. The AOA
must be of sufficient size to ensure
e. Battle Position
(BP). BP is a
accomplishment of the ATF’s mission and
defensive location oriented on the most
must provide sufficient area for conducting
likely enemy avenue of approach from which
sea, land, and air operations. The airspace
a unit may defend or attack. A unit assigned
above is an integral part of the AOA. When
a BP is located within the general outline of
disestablished, airspace control reverts to
the BP.
the ACA.
f. Engagement Area (EA). EA is an
area in which the commander intends to
4. Special Purpose Airspace
trap and destroy an enemy force with
massed fires of all available weapons. EAs
a. Base Defense Zone. This air defense
and sectors of fire are not intended to
zone is established around an air base and
restrict fires but are used as a tool to
limited to the engagement envelope of
concentrate fires and to optimize their
SHORAD weapon systems defending that
efforts.
base. Base defense zones have established
entry, exit, and IFF procedures. Similar to
3. Navy Procedural Measures
a ROZ in purpose.
a. Positive Identification and Radar
b. CAP/Orbit Areas/Tracks. These
Advisory Zone (PIRAZ). PIRAZ is the
areas are basically ROZs designated for use
capability to positively identify and track
by specialized aircraft (DCA CAP, AWACS,
friendly aircraft in defended airspace before
and other special asset orbits, etc.). Limits
they pose a threat to the vital area. PIRAZ
are defined vertically and horizontally along
control is normally assigned to a Navy
with times for initiation and completion.
A-3
5. Fire Support/Airspace Coordination
of the land or amphibious force boundary.
Placement of the FSCL is based on the type
Measures
of mission, threat, terrain, and concept of
a. Formal Fire Support/Airspace
the operation, as well as organic weapons
capabilities, location of friendly and enemy
Coordination. Fire support/airspace
forces, anticipated rates of movement, and
coordination is established by the
tempo of operations. Careful consideration
FSCOORD with inputs from the ALO at the
appropriate level of command and control.
and judicious placement should be exercised
Formal measures are included in the fire
in determining its placement.
support plan and passed to the BCD who
then coordinates with the AOC for inclusion
(c) Free Fire Area (FFA). FFA
in the ACO. Coordination is achieved using
is a designated area in which any weapon
boundaries and permissive or restrictive
system can fire conventional or improved
measures.
munitions without additional coordination
and is normally established on identifiable
(1) Boundary. Boundary is a line by
terrain.
which areas of responsibility between
adjacent units/formations are defined.
(3) Restrictive Measures.
(2) Permissive Measures.
(a) No-Fire Area (NFA). NFA
is an area where no fires or the effects of
(a) Coordinated Fire Line
fires are allowed without prior clearance
(CFL). CFL is a line beyond which
from the establishing headquarters, except
conventional or improved conventional
if the force must defend itself against an
indirect fire means (that is, mortars, field
enemy force within the NFA.
artillery, and naval gunfire) may fire at any
time within the zone of the establishing
(b) Restrictive Fire Area (RFA).
headquarters
without
additional
RFA is an area where specific restrictions
coordination.
are imposed and into which fires that exceed
those restrictions are prohibited without
(b) FSCL. FSCLs are permis-
prior coordination from the establishing
sive fire support coordinating measures.
headquarters.
They are established and adjusted by
appropriate land or amphibious force
(c) Restrictive Fire Line (RFL).
commanders within their boundaries in
RFL is a line established between
consultation with superior, subordinate,
converging forces that prohibits fires or the
supporting, and affected commanders.
effects of fires across the line without
Forces attacking targets beyond an FSCL
coordination from the establishing
must inform all affected commanders in
headquarters.
sufficient time to allow necessary reaction
to avoid fratricide, in the air and on the
(d) Airspace Coordination Area.
ground. FSCLs facilitate the expeditious
Airspace coordination area is a three-
attack of targets of opportunity beyond the
dimensional block of airspace where friendly
coordinating measure. Supporting
aircraft are reasonably safe from friendly
elements may attack targets beyond the
surface fires.
FSCL provided the attack will not produce
adverse effects on, or to the rear of, the line.
b. Informal Fire Support/Airspace
The FSCL is not a boundary—the
Coordination. Informal fire support/
synchronization of operations on either side
airspace coordination consists of procedures
of the FSCL is the responsibility of the
to deconflict aircraft from other fire support
establishing commander out to the limits
assets, primarily artillery. Informal
A-4
measures are established by the terminal
to shift supporting fires to another area for
attack controller (FAC, ALO, ETAC) in
a short time or "hold," so CAS operations
response to the FSCOORD’s fire support
can occur reasonably safe from friendly fires.
plan and are implemented for a short period
While uncommon, supporting fires can also
of time to permit CAS operations. Informal
be checked in order to permit cyclical
measures are heavily dependent upon good
operations between artillery and CAS assets.
FSCOORD-ALO interface.
6. Air Defense Measures
(1) Heading Offset. Terminal attack
controller selects an IP and specifies the
a. Air Defense Action Area. Air defense
lateral offset from the IP to the target
action area is airspace where friendly
"run-in" to deconflict fighters from other
aircraft or surface-to-air weapons are
supporting aircraft.
normally given preference in operations
except under specific conditions.
(2) Heading Direct. Terminal attack
controller selects an IP so that the IP to the
b. Air Defense Area. Air defense area
target "run-in" is deconflicted from other
is a specifically defined airspace that air
supporting fires by at least two nautical
defense is planned for and provided.
miles either side of the centerline. The use
of the word
“direct” after giving the
c. Air Defense Identification Zone
magnetic heading denotes the heading is a
(ADIZ). ADIZ is airspace of defined
restriction.
dimensions where the ready identification,
location, and control of airborne vehicles and
(3) Informal Airspace Coordination
aircraft is required. This zone is normally
Area. Terminal attack controller establishes
the transition between procedural control
a three-dimensional area for a specific time
(outside) and positive control (inside) in an
period where fighters can operate
area of operations.
reasonably safe from friendly surface fires.
While it should be established along easily
d. Air Defense Operations Area. Air
identifiable terrain features, it can be
defense operations area is airspace where
established using grid lines.
procedures are established to minimize
mutual interference between air defense
(4) Maximum or Minimum Ordinate
and other operations. It may include
(MAX or MIN ORD). Terminal attack
designation of one or more of the following:
controller obtains the MAX or MIN ORD of
air defense action area, ADIZ, and/or
supporting fires. MAX ORD will be used to
firepower umbrella.
fly above low angle artillery and MIN ORD
will be used to fly under high angle artillery.
e. Weapons Engagement Zone (WEZ).
Summit is used instead of ORD when
WEZ is airspace of defined dimensions
operating with NSFS.
where the responsibility for engagement
normally rests with a particular weapon
(5) Target-to-Gun Line
(TGL).
system. Some examples of WEZs are—
Terminal attack controllers provide the
fighters with the artillery impact area and
(1) Fighter Engagement Zone (FEZ).
the TGL for the fighter to avoid.
FEZ is airspace of defined dimensions where
(6) Gun-to-Target Line
(GTL).
the responsibility for engagement normally
Terminal attack controllers provide the
rests with fighter aircraft.
fighters with the artillery location and the
GTL for the fighter to avoid.
(2) HIMEZ. HIMEZ is airspace of
defined dimensions where responsibility for
(7) Shift/Check Fire. Terminal
engagement normally rests with high
attack controllers work with the FSCOORD
altitude air defense SAMs.
A-5
(3) Joint Engagement Zone (JEZ).
SHORADEZ is that airspace of defined
JEZ is airspace of specific dimensions where
dimensions where the responsibility for
friendly SAMs and fighters are
engagement normally rests with short range
simultaneously employed.
air defense weapons. It may be established
within a LOMEZ or a HIMEZ.
(4) Low Altitude Missile Engage-
ment Zone (LOMEZ). LOMEZ is that
f. Weapons Free Zone (WFZ). WFZ is
airspace of defined dimensions where the
an air defense zone established for the
responsibility for engagement normally rests
protection of key assets where weapons
with low to medium SAMs.
systems may be fired at any target not
(5) Short Range Air Defense
positively identified as friendly.
Engagement
Zone
(SHORADEZ).
A-6
Appendix B
ATO, SPINS, AND ACO BREAKOUT
1. Breaking the ATO
(1) Amplification Fields (AMPN).
AMPN field designator is normally inserted
ATOs vary in length from a few pages
after the air tasking (AIRTASK) message
to DESSERT STORM-type ATO that
set. In terms of ATO interpretation, the
exceeded 900 pages. The sample ATO/
AMPN field is an important part of the
UNCLASSIFIED message and exerts
message. Each AMPN denotes additional
displayed in Figures B-1 through B-3
information pertaining to specific message
contain examples of completed ATOs.
fields. Among the more important fields
As a universal document applicable
are the “Unit Remarks” free text section
to a wide variety of mission types, the ATO
that denotes actions or comments
contains information that is not used by all
applicable to higher headquarters tasking.
units. For instance, a C2 unit responsible
Operators who are not completely familiar
for OCA missions would not require ATO
with the ATO format normally search the
information addressing airlift operations.
document for each AIRTASK field to locate
Therefore the process of “breaking” the
the free text entries.
ATO, refers to actions involving the
extraction of pertinent information
(2) Narrative
(NARR) Fields.
applicable to specific unit tasking.
Narrative fields are free text entries
designated by the NARR field descriptor.
2. Message Content
One of the more common uses of the NARR
Figure B-1 shows a sample ATO/
field is to denote a “combined or general
UNCLASSIFIED message containing
unit remarks” section at the end of the
information sets and fields. Table B-1 shows
ATO. Unlike the “unit remarks” section
common headers and initial sets used to
that applies to specific units, the “combined
designate blocks of information that are
units remarks” section contains infor-
inserted at various locations within the
mation applicable to all units (see Figure
ATO. Each ATO contains mandatory,
B-2).
“Combined unit remarks” pertain to
optional, and conditional entries that are
subjects that are applicable to many of the
used as required by the rules of message
tasked units and are used to streamline
construction contained in the Joint Users
ATO content.
“Combined unit remarks”
Handbook for Message Text Formats (JUH-
include such items as—
MTF). Overall, the ATO is divided into
(a) Air refueling data/procedures
three sections:
(I) Mission—normally
—initial point data.
support tactical air operations,
(II)
Execution—assigns specific missions to
(b) Strike package data/proce-
individual units, and
(III) SPINS—
dures—contact point data.
amplifies, explains, modifies and changes
everything in (I) and (II).
(c) MMR data.
a. ATO Remarks (RMKS) and Nar-
ratives. The ATO remarks section is used
(d) LLTR data.
to explain or clarify existing data sets/
(e) Drop/landing/extraction zone
fields. Message remarks are particularly
data.
beneficial because of the provision to allow
the use of plain text entries. The remarks
(f) CAP data.
field begins with the designator RMKS and
uses slashes (/) to separate other data fields.
(g) SPINS.
B-1
FM 414 CTS NELLIS AFB NV//DO//
1. TO ZEN/31FW (DEP)NELLIS AFB NV
ZEN/388FW (DEP)NELLIS AFB NV
ZEN/354FW (DEP)NELLIS NV
ZEN/150FG (DEP)NELLIS NV
ZEN/35FW (DEP)NELLIS NV
ZEN/117RW (DEP)NELLIS NV
ZEN/33FW (DEP)NELLIS NV
ZEN/463 AW (DEP)NELLIS NV
ZEN/552ACW (DEP)NELLIS NV
ZEN/74ACCS (DEP)NELLIS NV
ZEN/41ECS (DEP)NELLIS NV
ZEN/366FW (DEP)NELLIS NV
2. RHWUDDA/9RW BEALE AFB CA/DOJ/DOTTU//
RBUXABB/474FW HILL AFB UT/DOO/DO//
RUWUSRO/27FW CANNON AFB NM/DO//
RBWTEAA/384BW GRAND FORKS AFB ND/DO//
RBWXXYV/7BW CARSWELL AFB TX/DO//
RHFIAAA/22ARW MARCH AFB CA/RFTTF/
BT
UNCLAS
3. EXER/RED FLAG /93-X//
4 MSG ID/ATOCONF/414 CTS DO/14290 01/OCT//
5. PERID/291400Z/TO:292300Z//ASO F:280100Z
6. A IRTASK/U NITTASKIN G/RF 9 3-X AFFOR ATO, 29 OCT
7.
TASKUNIT/552ACW/KLSV (DEP)//
AMPN/UNIT REMARK(S): NONE//
8.
MSNDAT/A29111/F2B/DECK 10/1E-3/AEW/-/-/-35410//
9.
MSNLOC/291510Z/291730Z/AS COORDINATED//
TASKUNIT/27FW/KCVS(DEP)//
MSNDAT/A299331/F2B/BLEED 44/4FB-111/INT/-/T4106/
/35444/35445/35446/35447//
AMPN/UNIT REMARK(S): NOTE(S) E//
10. TGTLOC/291640Z/291645Z/76-1/INCPX/NM0920839012/-/VEHICLE
PRODUCTION//
11. AMP N/CE NTER O F MASS 37.24.324N 116.54.126W//
TASKUNIT/67RW/KLVS(DEP)//
MSNDAT/29181/F2B/KODAC 05/1RF-4C/REC/-/-/-/36407//
AMPN/UNIT REMARK(S): NOTE(S) K//
12. RECD AT/1 8AA0 01/PRY:1/291510Z/-/P HO TO/ROUTE/-/-/-/TGTCOD:R-
8407//
13. REFUEL/ANKER 36/A29121/3743N 11445W/245/291530Z/5/295.4/319.5//
Figure B-1. ATO
B-2
Table B-1. Message Headers and Initial Sets
LINE
DESIGNATOR
TITLE
CONTENTS
1 and 2
ZEN/31FW OR
ADDRESSEE
NORMALLY ADDRESSED TO ALL
RHWUDDA/9RW
PARTICIPATING UNITS
3
EXER OR OPER
EXERCISE OR
IDs SPECIFIC CODE NAME OF
OPERATION NAME
THE OPERAITON
4
MSGID/ATOCONF
MESSAGE
NORMALLY IDs THE DATE/TIME
IDENTIFICATION
GROUP (DTG)
5
PERID/291400Z/TO:292300Z//
EFFECTIVE PERIOD
IDs THE VALID TIME OR
ASOF:280100Z
EFFECTIVE DATES
6
AIRTASK/UNITASKING/RF
ADDRESSEE MESSAGE
COMMENTS ABOUT OPS TITLE
93-X AFFOR ATO, 29OCT
IDENTIFIER
AND ATO DATE
7
TASKUNIT/552ACW/KLSV
EXERCISE OR
SPECIFIC CODE NAME OF
(DEP)
OPERATION NAME
OPERATION
8
MSNDAT
MISSION DATA
CALL SIGNS/AIRCRAFT
TYPE/MSN/ETC…
9
MSNLOC
MISSION LOCATION
ORBIT AREAS/STATION
TIMES/ETC…
10
TGTLOC
TARGET LOCATION
LISTING OF TARGET
LOCATION(S)
11
AMPN
AMPLIFICATION
AMPLIFIES EXISTING FIELDS
12
RECDAT
RECONNAISSANCE DATA
RECONNAISSANCE DATA
13
REFUEL/ANCHOR
REFUELING ANCHOR
MSN A/C REFUELING INFO-
OPTIONAL FIELD
b. SPINS. SPINS are free text formats
alphanumeric section designators.
normally included as part of the “combined/
Although SPINS are formatted using
general unit remarks.” The SPINS section
standardized procedures, their appearance
is often several pages in length and is
varies according to the theater
considered essential reading for all action
requirements and command directives.
addressees. SPINS highlight, modify, or
The SPINS depicted in Figure B-3 begin
supplement mission data contained in
with an index of the contents. Each section
other portions of the ATO. SPINS include
is numbered similar to paragraphs in a
many types of information that do not fit
regulation. Entries are presented in both
into other mission formats. As a general
columnar and sentence formats. In the
rule, SPINS are valid until they are
example, the SPINS cover a wide variety
rescinded or superseded. Sometimes,
of mission planning considerations to
SPINS include specific date-time groups
include—
(DTGs) that are no longer valid. SPINS also
contain data that modify, change, or replace
(a) Airspace.
information contained in local OPORDs. In
some theaters, SPINS are published as an
(b) Range times.
entirely separate message due to their
excessive length.
(c) Frequencies.
(1) Figure B-3 shows a typical
(d) Control agencies.
abbreviated version of an ATO SPINS
section. It is formatted using basic United
(e) IFF/SIF assignments.
States Message Text Format (USMTF)
procedures and organized using
(f) Mission event numbers.
B-3
9. NARR/COMBINED UNIT REMARKS: ALL UNITS
A. NONE
B. NONE
C. NONE
D. COORDINATES WITH MISSION/PACKAGE COMMANDER FOR
REFINED TOT’S.
E. COORDINATES LISTED ARE FOR CENTER OF MASS. MENSURATE
OWN COORDINATES FOR DMPI LISTED.
F. WILD WEASEL NOTES: ALL SIMULATED WEASEL LOADS
INCLUDE 2 AIM-7
G. MISSION/PACKAGE COMMANDER INFORMATION:
(1) ALL PACKAGE COMMANDERS SHOULD REFER TO THE RED
FLAG SPINSTO ASSIST AND GUIDE MISSION PLANNING.
(2) GAP TIMES:
IN(NET)
OUT(NLT)
AM: -
-
PM: 1515
1745
H. AMC NOTES:RESUPPLY US SPECIAL FORCES AT KENO AND
POKER DZ.
I. BOMBER NOTES: OFF STATION MISSIONS: ON EGRESS EXIT EC
SOUTH ABOVE 16K
J. OCA KILL REMOVAL “SHOWTIME” FREQUENCIES:
312.8 (PRI)
347.4 (SEC)
“DEADMAN” MODE 1 PROCEDURES: IF “SHOWTIME” CALLS
KILL ON YOUR AIRCRAFT, ROTATE MODE 1 TO “00” UNTIL
REGENERATION, THEN, RETURN TO CORRECT MODE 1 READING
FOR THE CURRENT TIME ...
K. RECC NOTES:
AM MISSION: NONE PM MISSION:
MISSION TARGET
A2 9181
76-10
Bunker
A2 9381
74-9
SSM
L. INTERDICTION NOTES:
MISSION:
BACKUP TARGETS:
A2 9334
76-3
A2 9335
75-20
Figure B-2. ATO Narrative - Combined and General Remarks
B-4
SPINS INDEX:
1. RANGE TIMES/MODE 3.
2. PACKAGE COMMANDERS.
3. LIVE ORDNANCE.
4. IFF/SIF.
5. COMMUNICATIONS PLAN.
6. GENERAL.
7. OPERATIONAL RESTRICTIONS.
8. AIRSPACE CONTROL ORDER.
1.
RANGE TIMES/MODE 3:
RANGE RESTRICTIONS: ALL TIMES ARE ZULU MODE 3:
CHARACTERS THREE AND FOUR (XX) ARE YOUR CALL SIGN
NUMBER.
A. CAL: 1445-1800
B. RNG 71 OPEN: 1500-1800
C. RNG 76 OPEN: 1510-1800
ETC...
2.
MISSION COMMANDERS:
MISSION
MSNUNIT
RM PHONE
A29131
INT 31FW
56
22104
A29242
CAS 354FW
51
22103
A29151
OCA 33FW
45
27094
ETC...
3.
LIVE ORDNANCE/AIRLIFT SCHEDULE:
MSN
A/C
TARGET TOT
ORD
BACKUP TOT
A29391
C-130
POKER DZ
1645-1730
T-BUNDLES
TBD
A29341
A-10
75-8
1642-1647
L8817
TBD
4.
IFF/SIF: ALL AIRCRAFT WILL SQUAWK ROTATING MODE 1 FOR
FRIENDLY ID. CODES
WILL BE CHANGED EVERY TWO HOURS PLUS/MINUS ONE
MINUTE. ALL AIRCRAFT WILL SQUAWK THE SAME MODE 2 AS THE
ASSIGNED MODE 3 IF CAPABLE.
1500 32
1700
5.
COMMUNICATION PLAN:
REFER TO AIRCREW AID: DAY 03
BLACKJACK: 377.8
SHOWTIME: 312.8
AAR RENDEZVOUS: 276.4
GCI SAFETY: 308.6
JRCC: 288.0
Figure B-3. ATO SPINS
B-5
Appendix C
CARRIER BATTLE GROUP PLANNING AND
EXECUTION FOR AIR OPERATIONS
1. Background
(1) During independent operations
using guidance from the CVBG commander,
A US Navy Carrier Battle Group
develop operational plans; schedule of
(CVBG) can serve as an independent, self-
events (SOE); ATOs; SPINS; and ROE to
contained task force or as a contributing
best support and execute CVBG training/
member of a larger joint or combined task
warfighting objectives. These plans will
force. The CVBG could also be assigned as
include—
a transitional JFACC. Additionally, a
(a) Operational plans that
carrier (CV) or nuclear carrier (CVN) could
embody a series of related operations aimed
host a JFACC for the conduct of air
at accomplishing an assigned objective.
operations. The command organization,
These plans represent the commander’s
relationships, and procedures outlined in
vision for conducting operations, define the
the command warfare organization section
objectives, and serve as the basis for all
below are designed to clarify and streamline
other planning.
the planning, coordinating, and execution
of operations in all CVBG warfare areas.
They do not remove the responsibilities of
(b) ATO shells for 24 and 48
each battle group warfare commander nor
hours—allocation and tasking of all sorties
replace established procedures of the
that fly in the CVBG area of operations in
composite warfare commander (CWC)
all warfare mission areas. ATO shells are a
concept. The end goal is eliminating
means of providing an initial look at plans
duplication of effort and promoting
for air operations and forms the basis for
standardization of operational planning and
ATO development.
execution with in the task force.
(c) ATO for next day’s
2. Command Warfare Organization
operations to be transmitted and
disseminated throughout the CVBG at
a.
The CVBG command warfare
1500 local each day. Execution time (T) of
organization will be comprised of
the ATO shall be normally 0600 local and
representatives from the CVBG warfare
end at 0559 local the following day unless
commanders SUWC, USWC, STWC, air
otherwise specified for SO.
war sector (AWC), and C2WC with AREC,
helicopter employment coordinator (HEC),
(d) ACP for current theater of
SOF, commander, amphibious task force/
operations—listing instructions/guidance
commander, landing force (CATF/CLF),
from higher authority and/or CVBG
CVBG logistic coordinator
(CVBGLC), and
commander, to be promulgated as monthly
from the CVBG staff. Their functions are
and weekly ACO and daily as part of the
to report to the CVBG commander in all
ATO SPINS.
areas pertaining to planning, allocation,
and tasking of assigned forces; the
(2) During joint operations, when
execution and support of all warfare
directed by CVBG commander, provide
missions; and coordination/integration of
centralized direction for the allocation and
CVBG forces into joint/combined
tasking of CVBG forces that are assigned
operations, when directed. The organi-
TACON to theater commands in support of
zation will perform the following functions:
joint/combined operations to include—
C-1
(a) Liaison with theater
(a) Provides guidance for
commands to coordinate allocation/
development of maritime concept/
incorporation (common use) of CVBG forces
operations plans and serves as final
into joint/combined ATOs and warfighting
approving authority for same.
plans.
(b) Provides warfighting guid-
(b) Coordinate
allocation/
ance and apportionment (prioritization of
deconfliction of available joint/combined
effort) that will direct combat plans in the
and CVBG forces (other than those TACON
allocation of resources.
for joint/combined operations) for execution
(direct support) of all CVBG warfare
(c) Conveys the commander’s
mission areas.
vision and intent (philosophy). Clearly
defines mission objectives and what
(c) Continue development/
constitutes mission success.
dissemination of plans, 60-day SOE, SPINS,
(d) Provides an orderly (sys-
ROE, ATO shells, and current ATO as
tematic) scheme of military operations.
outlined above.
(e) Orients forces on the
(3) When directed, perform the
enemy’s centers of gravity (for example,
functions of a sea-based JFACC, during
leadership, infrastructure, military).
transition to embarkation of a “flyaway”
JFACC staff or as permanent members if
(f) Phases/sequences/priori-
assigned.
tizes operations encompassing all warfare
areas, independently or simultaneously
(4) In all cases, continually evaluate
with joint/combined forces, economy,
and brief CVBG commander on all
preservation, and survivability of forces in
operations to include plans, ATO/SPINS,
mind.
ROE, CA, and mission results.
(g) Synchronizes air, land, and
(5) In all cases, direct execution of
sea efforts into a cohesive and synergistic
all CVBG operations and make recom-
whole.
mendations/adjustments based on CA, to
include changes in targeting, tasking,
(h) Provides guidance for
allocation, and apportionment of CVBG
development of peacetime exercise and
forces.
training plans and serves as final approving
authority for same.
b. The command warfare organization
composition will consist of the following
(i) Makes any revisions to
organizations, whose primary functions
combat campaign and contingency plans
include planning, scheduling, and
based on CA of the situation.
execution of CVBG commander and/or
higher
headquarters
warfighting
(j) Serves as approving author-
directives.
ity for CVBG prioritized target list during
independent operations and approves
(1) Warfare Commanders Board
target nominations for incorporation into
(WCB). WCB serves as the governing and
the JIPTL during JFACC air operations.
approval authority/organization for CVBG
operational planning and execution. It
(k) Serves as approving
authority for CVBG commander initiated
establishes the operational tempo and
direction for conducting military
SPINS and ROE.
operations, utilizing envisioned/directed
(l) Serves
as approving
warfighting objectives and guidance from
authority for the apportionment—CVBG
CVBG commander. Key tenants (while not
ATO shells and current CVBG ATO.
all inclusive) are—
C-2
(m) ATO shells for 24 and 48
operations. Provides air forces sourcing,
hours are briefed and approved at the daily
allocation, and sequencing necessary for
CVBG commander morning meeting,
producing the ATO utilizing the
during which all WCB members will be
AIRSUPREQ and ALLOREQ processes and
present or represented.
CVBG commander guidance.
(2) Combat Plans. Combat Plans is
(c) GAT/ATO Production Cell.
divided into three cells (air defense plans;
GAT/ATO Production Cell uses the MAAP
long range plans [LRP]; and guidance,
for production of the ATO and reports to
apportionment, targeting
[GAT]/ATO
LRP for ATO development, production and
production). Combat plans is responsible
transmission. Its functions include—
for current and long range detailed
•Consolidating, allocating, and
planning in accordance with CVBG
scheduling CVBG assigned air forces in
commander objectives, guidance, and
execution of the MAAP.
apportionment of forces.
•Developing ATO shells and
(a) Air Defense Plans Cell. The
current ATO.
ACA and AADC (Chapter I) are responsible
for coordinating and integrating use of the
•Publishing ATOs within the
airspace control area and coordinating and
directed timelines (Table C-2 or Chapter
integrating all air defense operations,
VII).
respectively. As these responsibilities are
interrelated with air warfare, the AWC in
•Publishing monthly/weekly/
the CWC concept will be delegated ACA
daily SPINS and ROE.
and AADC when the CVBG commander is
•Developing and publishing
designated as JFC or JFACC.
ordnance load plans.
(b) LRP. LRP is the oversight
•Scheduling peacetime exer-
and operational decision-making body of
cise/training areas (warning/restricted
combat plans. Functions include—
areas).
•Developing operational and
(3) Combat (Current) Operations.
contingency combat plans.
Combat operations is maintained in CV/
CVN CDC and reports directly to tactical
•Functioning as CVBG com-
mander's primary point of contact and LNO
flag command center (TFCC). It serves as
direct representatives for and report
for joint/combined operational planning.
directly to the CVBG commander in the
•Developing ACOs
when
monitoring, coordinating, controlling and
required.
executing CVBG flight operations. The
TFCC director, the battle watch captain
•Developing ROE and SPINS for
(BWC), serves as final approving authority
approval by the CVBG commander and
for all combat operations functions. Combat
reviews existing ROE and SPINS for
operations functions include—
current theater of operations.
(a) Serving as CVBG com-
mander primary point of contact and
•Consolidating and submitting
independent CVBG and JIPTL
(as
coordinating authority for conducting
applicable) target nominations to WCB for
current day joint air operations in support
approval.
of higher headquarters’ (CJTF/JFACC)
taskings.
•Deconflicting apportionment/
assignment of CVBG air/sea/land forces in
(b) Providing immediate reac-
tion to changes in the enemy situation to
development of the MAAP that is the basis
for conducting offensive/defensive air
ensure warfare mission objectives are met.
C-3
(c) Executing the ATO.
CVBG operations and provides for
centralized coordination of intelligence
(d) Providing centralized con-
support in response to CVBG commander
trol for all CVBG operations.
and/or higher headquarters mission
objectives/directives. The BGICs functions
(e) Coordinating management
include—
of CVBG air forces—to include real-time
decision making involving aircraft launch,
(a) Collecting/assessing and
change in mission/targeting, and mission
providing intelligence support for
abort.
operations in all warfare mission areas.
(f) Monitoring aircraft mission
alert status and making adjustments as
(b) Providing intelligence sup-
required.
port for and playing a key role in the
review/development of the prioritized
(g) Serving as approving
target list.
authority for making changes to the current
ATO.
(c) Collecting and reporting
BDA and CA.
(h) Allocating/coordinating
emergent aircraft requirements. Negating
(d) Requesting and managing
a requested launch of designated alert
all reconnaissance data gathered from
aircraft by a warfare commander if deemed
national sources.
appropriate.
(e) Managing the rapid appli-
Combat operations performs its
cation of airpower (RAAP) database in
assigned functions in accordance with
CTAPS.
established CWC TFCC and CVBG AREC/
HEC OPTASKs and standard procedures.
3. Command Operating Procedures
The AREC provides centralized control
that allows CVBG warfare commanders to
a. If necessary, the CVBG commander
coordinate and execute their respective
can serve as the sea-based JFACC until a
scheduled missions
(decentralized
flyaway JFACC team arrives to establish a
execution). The AREC and HEC provide
Level-II sea-based JFACC: The com-
aircraft sourcing in execution of the ATO.
mander, carrier air wing (COMCVW) will
In cases of emergent aircraft requirements
serve as deputy JFACC.
or changes to the current ATO, the AREC
and HEC work in conjunction with CVW
b. Table C-1 depicts the Navy’s
(as an asset provider), to reach resolution.
“targeting cycle” phases, commencing with
Emergent (unscheduled) requirements
the initial CVBG commander guidance
from higher authority (CJTF/JFACC) are
phase through the final ATO production
processed by AREC, in coordination with
and execution phases, by which campaign,
the CVW and appropriate ship agencies. All
training, and warfighting plans will be
changes to the ATO, once resolved by
developed and executed.
AREC, must be approved by the TFCC
BWC before execution. If the BWC is
c. Table C-2 depicts a NAVFOR ATO
unable to execute the change, the CVBG
72-hour timeline process, commencing with
commander provides guidance.
initial guidance phase through the final
phase of ATO production and execution.
(4) Carrier Battle Group Intel-
The timeline may be adjusted to coincide
ligence Center (BGIC). The BGIC reports
with scheduled CVBG meetings, LRP
to WCB and is responsible for coordinating
meetings, etc., to reduce number of
the overall intelligence effort that supports
meetings and duplicity of effort.
planning, execution, and assessment of
C-4
Table C-1. Navy's Targeting Cycle
Phase
Organization
Action
Guidance
WCB
Develops guidance/direction predicated on OTC/CWC
and/or higher headquarters.
Plans
LRP
Develops plans predicated on WCB guidance/direction,
to include target nomination/prioritization lists,
SPINS/ROE development, mission specific plans, and
apportionment/allocation of forces.
ATO
GAT
Develops, produces, and transmits the ATO, using
development guidance, apportionment, and mission
specific plans. Production provided by the LRP and
WCB transmission.
ATO
TFCC/AREC/HEC
Executes the ATO and makes real-time decisions/
Execution
adjustments, based on combat assessment/situation
awareness.
Assessment
BGIC/WCB
Predicated on BDA and other intelligence; assesses the
situation; and develops/recommends/directs additional
or revised guidance and plans for restrikes and/or
retargeting.
Table C-2. NAVFOR ATO 72-Hour Timeline Process
Time
Organization
Action
As scheduled
LRP
Develop maritime concept/operations for review by WCB.
T-72
WCB
Approve and promulgate guidance/intentions for
accomplishment of mission objectives as submitted by
LRP.
T-63 (1900L)
LRP
Develop SOE/plans, target nomination/prioritized lists,
(When
strike/mission plans, and apportion/allocate forces for
Required)
direct support and common use.
T-48-42
GAT
Build 24-hour (current) ATO and 48/72-hour ATO shells
(1000L-1600L)
predicated on LRP (MAAP) guidance.
T-39 (1900L)
GAT Director
Brief LRP on 24-hour (current) ATO and 48/72-hour
(When
shells.
Required)
T-36 (2200L)
Subordinate
AIRSUPREQS due to CVBG GAT/ATO production cell.
Commands
T-21 (0900L)
GAT Director
Brief WCB and receive approval for current ATO and 48-
hour ATO shell.
T-20 (1000L)
GAT
Produce the ATO
T-17 (1500L)
GAT
Transmit ATO. Ensure ATO is received by subordinate
commands.
T (0600L)
CVBG/Task
Execute current ATO, AREC/TFCC assumes ATO
Force
execution responsibility.
C-5
d. ATO dissemination plan. Timely
e. CTAPS Data Base Management. CV/
transmission and receipt of the ATO,
CVN strike operations (strike ops) and
ALLOREQs and AIRSUPREQs are
designated personnel are responsible for
essential to battlespace management.
maintaining the CTAPS system
CTAPS provides an excellent source for
administration and database management.
production of the ATO and subsequent
The CVW provides personnel to CV/CVN
transmission of the document to CTAPS-
strike operations to assist in CTAPS data
equipped commands. However the carrier
entry and maintenance, and it trains
or ARG flagship is often the only CVBG
sufficient officers proficient in CTAPS and
platform with CTAPS. Acknowledgment of
the automated planning system function.
ATO receipt is required to verify that the
The assistant strike officer functions as the
primary method of dissemination is
CTAPS communications officer responsible
successful. CVBG commander employs the
for ensuing timely transmission and receipt
following methods to ensure timely receipt
of the ATO to CVBG commands and other
of the ATO:
designated units.
f. Emergent tasking/ATO Changes. All
(1) Secure computer bulletin board
efforts are made to prepare alert
system (BBS).
contingencies for anticipated OPTASK.
However changes to the ATO after
(2) Advance narrow digital voice
transmission at 1500L but before execution
terminal (ANDVT) data transfer.
at 0600L are resolved by CV/CVN strike
operations and approved by TFCC.
(3) Joint meteorological and
Approval of any requested changes takes
oceanographic
(METOC) data system
place following coordination between CVN
bulletin board.
operations, CVW operations and CVBG
N32. Changes to the ATO are indicated as
(4) Personal computer (PC)-to-PC
ATO “A” Change 1 and transmitted via the
transfer.
methods described above. CVN CDC issues
Mode 3 IFF squawks to approved emergent
(5) Carrier battle group orestes
tasking. TFCC also contacts all CVBG units
(BGO).
to pass approved changes and squawks.
C-6
Appendix D
AMPHIBIOUS OPERATIONS AND PASSAGE OF CONTROL ASHORE
accommodate the transition of the Marine
1. Background
component ashore. The JFC will establish
an AOA and the NAVFOR or JFMCC will
The CATF has overall responsibility for
designate a CATF. The two key systems
control and coordination of supporting
supporting the CATF are the Navy Tactical
arms in an amphibious operation. Because
Air Control System (NTACS) for control of
of the nature of amphibious operations,
air operations and the SACC for control of
supporting arms control and coordination
supporting arms.
For amphibious
may be passed from command to command
operations, the MAGTF commander is
within the ATF. A specific command must
designated the CLF. The MACCS and the
always be responsible for these functions
FSCCs are the CLF’s NTACS and SACC
and the passage of responsibility from one
equivalents, respectively. Through these
command to the next must occur smoothly
systems, the CATF and CLF are able to
and expeditiously. Planners must provide
control air operations and supporting arms
for this passage of responsibility to
support, and pass control of theses
designated commands—
functions ashore once the CLF is
established. When the NTACS is used in
(1) During
advanced
force
conjunction with the MACCS, it forms the
operations.
Amphibious Tactical Air Control System
(ATACS).
(See Figure D-1 for graphical
(2) When the landing force (LF) is
depiction.) Once the Marine component is
withdrawn.
fully established ashore, the AOA can be
dissolved and NTACS stood down.
(3) For the passage of control and
coordination to the LF for subsequent
operations ashore.
a. NTACS is the organizational
structure by which the CATF executes air
(4) In the event the flagship or
operations. A Navy TACRON makes
other coordination center becomes disabled.
NTACS functional by filling specified
spaces/billets aboard the various
(5) In the event the FSCC ashore
amphibious control ships where centralized
becomes disabled.
communications and display equipment
permit control and coordination of aircraft.
The various elements of this system are
2. Organization for Amphibious
activated based upon—forces assigned, the
Operations
CATF’s needs for C2 of the force, and
physical space limitations. Two key
When an amphibious operation is
components of NTACS manned by the
planned, the air-ground system changes to
TACRON are the TACC/TADC.
D-1
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