scope:

Preface:

Allied Tactical Publication (ATP)-3.3.2.1 (B) Tactics, Techniques and Procedures for Close Air Support and Air Interdiction is based on general doctrine and fundamental considerations contained in the Allied Joint Publication (AJP)-3.3.2 (A) Allied Joint Doctrine for Close Air Support and Air Interdiction.

The aim of this document is to introduce principal Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTPs) to be used during Close Air Support (CAS) and Air Interdiction (AI). Nothing in this publication is intended in any way to restrict the development of tactics or additional procedures and techniques by national armed forces or NATO Commands. The requirement is that all air components that may be tasked to support surface forces of another nation or command, and all Forward Air Controllers (FACs), who may be required to direct aircraft of another nation or command, are able to do so through the application of the standard procedures outlined herein. This document should also serve as a reference for training in national armed forces.

CAS and AI are conducted to deprive the enemy of the military power he needs to occupy territory by neutralising, delaying or destroying his surface forces.

AI is air activity conducted to divert, disrupt, delay, or destroy the enemy's military potential before it can be brought to bear effectively against friendly forces, or to otherwise achieve objectives. AI is conducted at such distance from friendly forces that detailed integration of each air mission with the fire and movement of friendly forces is not required.

CAS is air activity against hostile targets which are in close proximity to friendly forces and requires detailed integration of each air mission with the fire and movement of those forces. Such action requires the involvement of a qualified FAC¹ (ground or airborne). All individuals authorised to direct action of Fixed-Wing (FW) aircraft and Attack Helicopters (AHs)² from a forward position must be trained and qualified in accordance with North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Standardization Agreement (STANAG) 3797, Minimum Qualifications for Forward Air Controllers and Laser Operators in Support of Forward Air Controllers.

Standard operating procedures and high standards of training are essential for the safe conduct of AI and CAS. To facilitate joint and combined operations, standard procedures are described in this document.

¹ The term "Forward Air Controller" is taken in this document to include the USA terms Terminal Attack Controller or Joint Terminal Attack Controller.

² AH refers to both terms "Attack Helicopters" and "Armed Helicopters" throughout this publication.