The Forward Air Controller: Is He a Viable Factor in Central Europe.
Abstract
The problem undertaken in this thesis is to determine whether or not the Forward Air Controller (FAC), as currently trained and equipped, would be a viable factor in a mid-intensity conflict in Central Europe. Areas investigated included the Soviet threat, terrain and climatological factors prevalent in Europe, the number of FACs assigned to support Army maneuver units, the equipment they use, and the training they receive. The conclusions drawn from this analysis are: (1) The FAC is improperly trained, in that he is not provided sufficient ground FAC training during the initial training period, and the airborne training does not present survivable techniques for a mid-intensity conflict. (2) The FAC does not receive sufficient ground training with the supported maneuver unit once he reaches his final destination. (3) The airborne FAC is not properly equipped, in that the OV-10 aircraft could not survive the vast array of surface-to-air weapons available to Soviet forces. (4) Standardized armored vehicles are not available to the ground FAC for either training or actual combat. (5) Based on the tactics and procedures presently being taught, the number of FACs available in Europe today is not sufficient to meet the demand created by a conflict in Europe.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 10, 1977
- Accession Number
- ADA043679
Entities
People
- Don A. Lyon
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College