Close air support

Close air support is air action against hostile forces near friendly forces, coordinated with their operations. It requires close coordination to reduce risks to friendly troops and enable their immediate mission.

Forward air controller: A military specialist who directs aircraft supporting ground forces and helps coordinate their attacks. Controllers communicate target locations and coordinate attacks with forces closest to the action.
A-10 Thunderbolt II: A U.S. attack aircraft designed for close air support and battlefield operations. Its design and armament have made it a prominent dedicated close air support aircraft.
Air interdiction: Air action against enemy forces or resources before they can affect friendly forces. Unlike close air support, interdiction generally targets forces not in immediate contact with friendly troops.
Operation Anaconda: A 2002 U.S.-led battle in Afghanistan's Shah-i-Kot Valley against al-Qaeda and Taliban forces. The operation exposed difficulties coordinating air support with troops in rugged terrain.
Joint terminal attack controller: A qualified service member who directs the action of combat aircraft engaged in close air support. This specialized controller can direct close air support and provide terminal attack control.
AC-130 gunship: A heavily armed aircraft that attacks ground targets using weapons fired from its side. It can provide sustained fire support to ground forces, especially at night.
Strategic bombing: Air attacks intended to weaken an adversary's capacity or will to wage war. Its strategic aims differ from close air support's direct coordination with ground operations.
Battle of Normandy: The Allied campaign in northern France following the D-Day landings in June 1944. Allied air power supported ground advances, illustrating the interaction of air operations and battlefield maneuver.
Air tasking order: A daily plan that assigns and coordinates aircraft missions across an air operation. It schedules aircraft and establishes command arrangements that can support ground operations.
Attack helicopter: A helicopter designed to attack ground targets and support forces in combat. Attack helicopters can provide responsive support near ground troops, though doctrine distinguishes them from fixed-wing air support.

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