A Joint Approach for Long-Range Airborne Forward Arming and Refueling Operations
Abstract
A capability gap exists with the present employment of Special Purpose Marine Air/Ground Task Force (SPMAGTF) long-range operations. Operations in the New Normal require disbursed and distributed operations, often long distances from home bases. Additionally, due to global sourcing requirements for the Marine Corps only organic tanker aircraft, the KC-130J, long-range missions flown by MV-22B aircraft will be unescorted, potentially leaving the assault aircraft vulnerable in the landing zone. Emerging concepts by both the Marine Corps and Air Force account for distributed operations; Distributed Short Takeoff/Vertical Landing Operations (DSO), and Rapid Raptor. DSO requires assets beyond the SPMAGTF tables of organization and cannot be applied to fill the gap. Rapid Raptor, in conjunction with Marine AV-8B Harrier aircraft, can be applied immediately and with minimal training beforehand to provide escort, close air support, or landing zone operation support to MV-22B operations. In conjunction with forward arming and refueling operations developed with the support ofMAWTS-1, Air Force C-17s can provide the joint force or component commander options for long-range missions with minimal to no external support from established aviation agencies.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 28, 2012
- Accession Number
- AD1175873
Entities
People
- Jay D. Hanson
Organizations
- Marine Corps University