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Close Air Support Controlling

 » Type 2 Controlling

"A precision strike on an unmarked HAVw A5 that is not observed by the FAC"

A Type 2 control is used when the FAC requires control of individual attacks AND any or all of the below conditions are met:

  • FAC is unable to visually acquire the attacking craft at weapons release
  • FAC is unable to visually acquire the target
  • Attacking craft is unable to acquire the mark or target prior to weapons release

Procedures

The procedures for a Type 2 control are the same as Type 1, but a number of other points must be kept in mind. When employing unguided munitions, consideration must be given to the attack craft's navigation and weapons system accuracy. Inaccurate navigation or guidance systems can result in excessive impact distance from the target, increasing the risk of fratricide. Additionally, when using standoff weapons such as long-range cruise missiles, weapon time of flight will be a factor, especially when enemy target locations are subject to change. Detailed planning and communication between the FAC and the attacking aircraft are essential to ensure mission success.

Battlefield Scenario

A FAC assigned to the 1/27th Airborne Company is unable to acquire the target (a Manka-class Armored Transport) but receives real-time targeting information from a Scout Sniper and the reconnaissance squad. The FAC verifies the target location and coordinates through the use of a TIE/sa Bomber with proton torpedoes.

The attack spacecraft checks in, informs the FAC of his onboard capabilities, receives a situation update, and is provided the Close Air Support Briefing.

FAC:

"Delta 11, this is Blue 33, this will be a Type 2 control, advise when ready for 9-line."

TIE/sa:

"Blue 33, Delta 11 ready to copy."

FAC:

"GUNDAR
360 right
9.9
450
Manka Armored Transport
NB 8651/7451
NONE
South 900, troops in contact
Egress east to COMET
Advise when ready for remarks."

TIE/sa:

"Ready to copy remarks."

FAC:

"Request one proton torpedo, final attack heading 300-345."

The attacking starfighter validates the target location by cross-checking that the position is consistent with the expected by using all appropriate means, including map plots, target designation on a digital map, head-up display symbology, forward-looking infrared targeting, and radar.

TIE/sa:

"450, NB 8651/7451, final attack heading 300-345."

FAC:

"Read back correct. Report IP (Initial Point) inbound, time on target (TOT) 45."

TIE/sa:

"Roger, TOT 45."

Prior to weapon release, each starfighter in the flight will provide the FAC with an IN call with direction.

TIE/sa:

"Delta 11 IP INBOUND."

FAC:

"Delta 11 CONTINUE."

TIE/sa:

"Delta 11 IN from the south."

FAC:

"Delta 11, CLEARED HOT."


Continue to "Type 3 Controlling"


Emperor's Hammer TIE Corps - Layout created by Drako and MAJ Robert Hogan