Close Air Support Allocation for Extended Counterinsurgency

This research paper presents the case for moving the CAS allocation execution function of the ASOC to the CRC for extended low intensity counterinsurgency operations. Due to the classified nature of specific data, interviews from sources (to include weapons and tactics officers, an ASOC commander, CAOC staff, and CAS aircrew) provide the evidence required to support such a change. This paper explains the problem of allocating CAS via a system located at the land component headquarters and that this may not always lead the optimum effects for the ground commander. The solution presented recommends a change to doctrine as to how CAS is allocated during COIN operations. It also recommends increased awareness by land component commanders as to the flexibility and responsiveness and how it cannot be simply treated as an extension of land based capabilities.