Rethinking the Application of the Army-Air Force Team on the Modern Battlefield

This paper examines some of the major interrelationships between air and ground forces on the modern battlefield. The examination is conducted at a conceptual level. The paper structures the air-land battle, looks at some possible problems in the Air Ground Operations System, proposes a scheme of target prioritization, and suggests a reorientation of our target planning approach. Subjects addressed include airstrike control, the Corps Direct Air Support Center, target selection, limited breakthroughs, and the requisite conditions for battlefield success. The conclusion stresses the value of reexamining our target selection process, and recommends that the Army institutionalize a tactical air support staff element, manned by Army officers, at various headquarters involved in combat development and training. (Author)