Close Air Support: Another Look
Abstract
The subject of close air support has been examined and analyzed time and time again. Most studies use as a starting point that the close air support mission is one that can be effectively accomplished in a high threat environment using a fixed wing aircraft. The threat capabilities are acknowledged to be significant. The advocated design or technological enhancement is presumed to negate the threat capability to the point where fixed wing close air support in the forward battle area is accomplished with acceptable loss rates and with high degrees of accuracy. The requirements of CAS need to be examined from a point of view of what needs to be accomplished in the forward battle area, what tasks the pilot must accomplish and under what conditions, and what type of machine is best suited to accomplish the mission. The cost of technological advances in fixed wing aircraft is high in dollar terms: the cost of ineffective use of the assets of war can be incalculable. Fixed wing CAS in the front line area of a fluid nonlinear battle is not a survivable option. In addition, its effectiveness as an extension of the ground commander's fire support system is questionable. Rotary wing aircraft offer distinct advantages in effectiveness and survivability.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 31, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA208685
Entities
People
- John J. Collins
Organizations
- United States Army War College