The Fire Support Uncoordination Line
Abstract
Successful combat operations require application of joint warfighting systems throughout the battlefield depth. Engagement capabilities available within joint forces include indirect, direct, and aviation delivered fires. Clearly relating these engagement capabilities within the joint force forms the basis for applying combat power throughout the battlefield depth. Central to the relationship to engagement capability and addressing the battlefield depth is the Fire Support Coordination Line (FSCL) In the past, shallow ranges of surface fires often warranted FSCLs closer to ground forces and allowed air interdiction (Al) to dominate the deep battlefield. Limited long range surface delivered fires led ground commanders to look to air support to shape the close fight. Furthermore, the lack of organic deep fire capability within the ground force resulted in ignoring deep battle planning or shifting responsibility to the US Air Force. Today's extended helicopter and rocket ranges change this equation. Now a ground commander seeks a deeper FSCL to accommodate employment of all his systems with close air support (CAS) and ground maneuver. Theoretically this provides the ground commander the opportunity to shape his close fight. Joint doctrine calls for integrated combined arms approaches throughout the battlespace. Effective combined arms employment requires a common understanding of terms and doctrine within the joint community. However, Service background, doctrine, and perspective impact upon a clear understanding within the joint community. This monograph examines whether the current definition of the FSCL facilitates efficient air support of ground operations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 22, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA331591
Entities
People
- Douglas M. King
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College