Armed Escort for Special Air Operations -- An Operational Concept
Abstract
This study hypothesizes that armed escort is required to protect special operations lift helicopters inserting, extracting, or resupplying SOF ground teams deep in the enemy rear. It compares the escort doctrine and tactics utilized by conventional air assets with current special operations tactics in light of the proliferation of highly capable air defenses among lesser developed nations. Beginning with the historical perspective of armed escort, then examining the current and projected threat, this study concludes that armed escort is indeed required to counter the increasingly capable and proliferating air defense threat. Based upon Phase One of the Concept Based Requirements System, Concept Formulation, this thesis proposes an Operational Concept for armed escort. The doctrine and tactics for armed escort during deep assault and attack missions already exist in Army and Air Force manuals. In order to conduct long-range clandestine penetrations, conventional doctrine needs modification. Part of the adjustment has to be in mindset--forcible entry is the least preferred option in most Direct Action or Special Reconnaissance scenarios. Keywords: Special operations, Concept based requirement system, Air defense, Armed escort, Special air operations, Aviation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA227391
Entities
People
- Richard D. Newton
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College