Unmanned Aerial Vehicles as Forward Air Controllers

The ability to provide close air support (CAS) has been critical to U.S. forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. Ground forces rely on air support and will do so in future operations. Advances in technology, such as precision guided munitions (PGMs), advanced targeting systems, the remotely operated video enhanced receiver (ROVER) system, and data-links, have made the execution of CAS easier, faster, and more effective. However, air assets are being used at a greater operational tempo than anticipated. This is reducing the lifespan of aircraft. Further, Iraqi and Afghani forces will depend on U.S. airpower to provide CAS as coalition ground forces turn over security operations and withdraw. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) offer capabilities that can aid in resolving these issues. UAVs can and should be utilized in a specific forward air controller (airborne) (FAC(A)) role. There are four factors that support employing UAVs as FAC(A)s. First, the number of UAVs, their capabilities, and the demand for those capabilities are consistently increasing. Second, UAVs offer a more efficient option in executing specific FAC(A) missions. Third, during a time of high operational tempo it is critical the capabilities of all U.S. military assets are maximized. Finally, UAVs require less support and present a smaller footprint then traditional manned aircraft operations. A UAV FAC(A) program should be initiated now to support current and future operations.

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