822A

Description

A qualified (certified) service member who, from a forward position, directs the action of combat aircraft engaged in Close Air Support (CAS) and other offensive air operations. A qualified and current JTAC will be recognized across DoD as capable and authorized to perform terminal attack control. CAS is an element of joint fire support. Synchronizing CAS in time, space, and purpose with supported maneuver forces increases the effectiveness of the joint force. CAS is air action by fixed and rotary-wing aircraft against hostile targets that are in close proximity to friendly forces and that require detailed integration of each air mission with fire and movement of those forces. CAS assist land, maritime, amphibious, and Special Operations Forces (SOF) to move, maneuver, and control territory, populations, and key waters. The support commander establishes the priority, timing, and effects of CAS fires within the boundaries of the land, maritime, SOF, or amphibious force’s area of operations. SOF may also need CAS and other joint fire, support at locations well beyond land, maritime, and amphibious operations force commanders’ areas of operations.