Joint Fires Publication 471: Close Air Support

• Joint Fires Publication (JFP) 471 provides guidance for joint forces executing close air support (CAS), titled "Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Close Air Support."
• JFP 471 serves as a keystone publication for all services.
• JFP 471 establishes common terminology to enhance interoperability.
• JFP 471 outlines the authorities and responsibilities of the supported commander, joint air component commander (JACC), and other key players in CAS operations.
• JFP 471 addresses the integration of air and surface fires.
• JFP 471 explains planning and execution considerations for effective CAS.
• JFP 471 emphasizes detailed coordination and communication between air and ground elements.
• JFP 471 highlights the use of standardized procedures and checklists.
• JFP 471 is used by all branches of the U.S. military and allied forces during joint operations involving CAS.
• JFP 471 is periodically reviewed and updated to reflect changes in doctrine, technology, and lessons learned from operational experience.

Purpose and Scope

• JFP 471 provides joint doctrine for Close Air Support (CAS).
• It outlines tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP) for CAS operations.
• The publication aims to enhance interoperability between different military services.
• It focuses on the integration of air and ground operations.
• JFP 471 applies to all joint forces involved in CAS missions.
• It covers the planning, preparation, execution, and assessment phases of CAS.
• The scope includes the roles and responsibilities of key personnel.
• It addresses the use of various technologies and weapons systems.
• JFP 471 emphasizes safety and risk mitigation in CAS operations.
• The publication is a reference for training and standardization of CAS procedures.

Key Concepts and Definitions

• Close Air Support (CAS) involves air action by fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft against hostile targets in close proximity to friendly forces, requiring detailed integration of each air mission with the fire and movement of those forces.
• Terminal Attack Controller (TAC) is qualified and authorized to control CAS and can be a Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) or Forward Air Controller (FAC).
• Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) is a qualified and certified service member who directs the action of combat aircraft engaged in close air support and other offensive air support from a forward position.
• Forward Air Controller (Airborne) (FAC(A)) is a specially trained and qualified aviation officer who exercises control from the air, directing other aircraft engaged in close air support of ground troops.
• Danger Close is a term used in the method of engagement portion of a call for fire to indicate that friendly forces are within close proximity to the target, with specific distances varying by weapon.
• Final Attack Heading (FAH) is a magnetic heading to the target used by the pilot as a reference for the final portion of the attack; ensuring the FAH is clear of friendly positions is crucial.
• Battlespace Management involves integrating airspace, surface, and subsurface control measures to achieve operational effectiveness.
• Tactical Risk Assessment is the process of identifying and assessing hazards associated with a specific operation.
• Type 1 Control requires the JTAC/FAC(A) to visually acquire both the attacking aircraft and the target for each attack and is used when positive target identification or specific attack geometry is needed.
• Type 2 Control requires the JTAC/FAC(A) to control individual attacks but acknowledges that visual acquisition of the attacking aircraft or the target at weapons release is not possible or practical.
• Type 3 Control gives the JTAC/FAC(A) the ability to provide clearance for multiple attacks within a single engagement, subject to specific restrictions.
• Clearance Authority is the authority to release ordnance on a target, typically held by the supported commander.
• Integration is the process of incorporating air and surface fires to achieve a synergistic effect.
• Airspace Control is the process used to increase operational effectiveness by preventing friendly fire and enhancing air defense.

Planning Considerations

• Mission objectives should be clearly defined and understood by all participants.
• Intelligence preparation of the battlespace (IPB) is crucial for identifying potential threats and obstacles.
• Airspace control measures must be established to prevent fratricide.
• Target selection should be based on priorities established by the ground commander.
• Coordination with adjacent units is essential to avoid conflicts.
• Communications plans need to be robust and redundant.
• Weather conditions can significantly impact CAS operations and must be considered.
• Availability of assets (aircraft, munitions, personnel) must be confirmed.
• Contingency plans should be in place to address potential problems.

Execution Procedures

• The JTAC/FAC maintains direct communication with the attacking aircraft.
• The JTAC/FAC provides target information, including location, description, and any threats.
• The attacking aircraft conducts a reconnaissance of the target area.
• The JTAC/FAC provides clearance to engage the target.
• The attacking aircraft delivers ordnance on the target.
• The JTAC/FAC assesses the effectiveness of the attack and provides feedback to the pilot.
• Post-strike reports are submitted to document the results of the mission.
• Immediate reassessment is conducted if the initial attack is not effective.
• Strict adherence to the rules of engagement (ROE) is mandatory.
• Coordination with other supporting arms (artillery, naval gunfire) is essential.

Safety Measures

• Proper target identification is critical to prevent civilian casualties.
• Risk assessment should be conducted before each mission.
• Danger close procedures must be followed when friendly forces are nearby.
• Airspace deconfliction measures must be in place.
• Emergency procedures should be well-rehearsed.
• All personnel involved in CAS operations must be properly trained and certified.
• Weapons systems should be employed within their designed safety parameters.
• Constant monitoring of the battlefield situation is necessary.
• Strict adherence to established protocols is essential.

Communications

• Standardized terminology and brevity codes are used to ensure clear communication.
• Radio frequencies are pre-planned and coordinated.
• Backup communication methods are established in case of primary system failure.
• The JTAC/FAC serves as the primary point of contact between air and ground elements.
• All communications are recorded and documented.
• Clear and concise language is used to avoid misunderstandings.
• Regular communication checks are conducted to ensure system functionality.
• Procedures are in place for handling communication disruptions.

Integration with Other Fires

• CAS is integrated with other supporting arms, such as artillery and naval gunfire.
• A fire support coordination line (FSCL) is established to deconflict airspace.
• Procedures are in place for coordinating the timing of different fires.
• The joint fires observer (JFO) assists in target identification and coordination.
• All fires are planned and executed in accordance with the ROE.
• A common operating picture (COP) is maintained to ensure situational awareness.
• The effects of all fires are assessed to determine their effectiveness.

CAS Request Procedures

• A request for CAS is initiated by the ground commander.
• The request includes details about the target, location, and desired effects.
• The request is forwarded to the air support operations center (ASOC).
• The ASOC validates the request and allocates appropriate assets.
• The ASOC coordinates the mission with the JTAC/FAC and the attacking aircraft.
• The ground commander is kept informed of the status of the request.
• Close coordination at each step is essential for mission success.

Airspace Control in CAS

• Airspace control measures are implemented to prevent fratricide and ensure safe operations.
• Restricted operating zones (ROZs) are established to separate air traffic.
• Air corridors are used to guide aircraft to and from the target area.
• Coordinating altitude layers (CALs) are defined to deconflict airspace.
• Airspace control orders (ACOs) are published to disseminate airspace information.
• All aircraft operating in the area must comply with airspace control measures.
• Liaison officers are often positioned to coordinate airspace usage.

Rules of Engagement (ROE)

• ROE are directives issued by competent military authority that delineate the circumstances and limitations under which forces will initiate and/or continue combat engagement with other forces encountered.
• ROE are designed to minimize civilian casualties and collateral damage.
• ROE are specific to each operation and may vary depending on the political and military situation.
• All personnel involved in CAS operations must be thoroughly familiar with the ROE.
• Any deviation from the ROE must be reported immediately.
• The ROE provide a framework for making ethical and legal decisions on the battlefield.
• ROE compliance is a critical aspect of mission success.