The Fixed-wing Aircrew Handbook

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Aircrews provide a vital transport and logistical boost to infantry forces, for reconnaissance, fire support, logistics and transport.

The 'Training Team' is a specialised group within the unit responsible for overseeing and managing the evaluation and improvement of a specific combat area. Comprising appointed individuals including Chief Instructors, Staff Instructors, Training Instructors, and Observers, the team operates under the guidance of Training Command. Each member has distinct roles and responsibilities, ranging from providing subject matter expertise to facilitating training sessions and assessing skill levels. Together, they ensure that training standards are met, skills are effectively taught and practiced, and feedback is provided to enhance individual and unit proficiency in specific combat areas.

• Designated member of the unit serving as a subject matter expert in a specific combat area
• Minimum of 1 and maximum of 2 may be assigned to any combat area
• Acts as a senior advisor to unit command, providing guidance on potential changes and advising on ongoing discussions
• Active participant in training, application, and observation of combat area skills
• Holds the highest weighted opinion among all other roles
• Accountable to both the Staff Instructor and Training Command
• Appointment made at the discretion of Training Command

• Member of J7 Staff responsible for overseeing a specific combat area, its training and training team
• Minimum of 1 and maximum of 2 per skill card; each staff member can oversee up to 4 skill cards in total
• Serves as the primary point of contact in the combat area for Training Command, Chief Instructors, Instructors, Observers, and the wider unit
• Ensures adequate training and practices are conducted through the training team
• Appoints and removes Training Instructors and Observers as needed, based on advice from Chief Instructors and in collaboration with Training Command
• Collaborates with Policy staff to implement changes and distribute them upon publication by Unit Command
• Holds the second highest weighted opinion among the roles involved
• Actively participates in training, application, and observation of combat area skills
• Accountable to Training Command and appointed at their discretion

• Unit member appointed as a Training Instructor in a specific combat area, having transitioned from the role of Observer
• Recognized by the training team as a well-rounded individual capable of effectively teaching relevant combat area skills in group settings
• Possesses a solid understanding of the combat area skills
• Holds the third highest weighted opinion among the roles involved
• Limited to a maximum of 6 Training Instructors per combat area
• Actively engages in training, application, and observation of combat area skills
• Accountable to both the Staff Instructor and Chief Instructors

• A member of the unit who is appointed as an Observer in a specific combat area, who in the eyes of the training team is trusted to assess others in a non-teaching capacity in the combat areas skills.
• Typically a starting role on route to Training Instructor.
• Holds the lowest weighted opinion.
• Maximum of 8 per combat area
• Active in the training, application and observation of combat area skills.
• Accountable to the Training Instructors and Chief Instructors.

Your role access is determined by your skills, experience with those skills, and the specific roles that utilize them. With over 100 roles in UNITAF, creating detailed skill breakdowns for every role is a substantial undertaking that cannot be completed overnight. 

Estimated Role Cards

To ensure the entire unit can transition to the new system immediately, some roles are tagged as **"Estimated"**. These roles use a transitional approach:

• Temporary skill blocks simulate role-specific experience
• Estimated access levels are calculated based on these placeholder blocks
• Similar to LTS functionality but with improved accuracy and fewer limitations

Current State: Estimated roles provide functional access levels that closely mirror the previous LTS system while addressing many of its shortcomings. As development progresses, estimated role cards will be upgraded to the full FTS3 standard with detailed, role-specific skill requirements.

Important Note: When roles transition from "Estimated" to "Verified" status, your access level may change (either increase or decrease) as the requirements become more precise and role-specific.

This approach allows UNITAF to:

• Maintain operations during the transition period
• Provide immediate access to the improved FTS3 system
• Ensure continuity while detailed role cards are developed
• Gradually improve role accuracy over time

The estimated system serves as a bridge, ensuring no disruption to unit operations while we build toward the comprehensive FTS3 vision.

This is a temporary skill block, the skill block is being used to accumulate SP for time spent as Fixed-wing Aircrew until it's role card is completed.

Rules of engagement (ROE) are directives that dictate how and when military forces can engage in combat. ROE outline conditions for using force, including target identification, self-defence, and proportionality. They are designed to ensure lawful and ethical conduct in military operations, and vary depending on the mission and environment. ROE always take precedence in operational decisions.

Identify targets as legitimate targets before engagement. This is crucial to prevent harm to civilians and ensure adherence to the principles of distinction and proportionality in combat.

Combatants: Individuals who are actively engaged in hostilities or are members of armed forces.

• Enemy soldiers in uniform not surrendering or wounded
• Armed militants
• Persons directly participating in hostilities
• A person posing an immediate threat (e.g., aiming a weapon) can be considered a combatant
• Parachuting active airborne infantry

Non-Combatants: Individuals who are not actively participating in hostilities. These are not legitimate targets.

• Civilians not taking direct part in hostilities
• Unarmed medical and religious personnel
• Wounded/surrendering soldiers who are not participating combat in any way, and prisoners of war
• Parachuting crew from a downed aircraft

Do not intentionally engage non-combatants as defined in FM/BS-349 - Identify legitimate targets

Do not cause damage to civilian infrastructure, unless necessary to archieve a military purpose. In general, preserving life should be prioritised over the avoidance of damage, but the destruction must be proportional to the purpose.

Examples:

• Acceptable situations:
  • Using explosives on a civilian house used as a military HQ
  • Dropping a bomb on an actively engaging enemy tank next to a house
• Unacceptable situations:
  • Cluster-bombing an enemy-held town
  • Destroying a house to take out a single shooter

Do not intentionally cause collateral damage to civilian infrastructure as defined in FM/BS-350 - Minimize collateral damage against civilian infrastructure

Vehicle identification is a useful skill for anyone on the battlefield, and a requirement for many of the more specialised roles. While some vehicles pose only a minimal threat, some can halt an entire platoon by themselves. As such accurate identification is crucial to good situational awareness, planning and tasking.

• Identifying a vehicle can be done at three levels of depth:
  • Vehicle class
  • Subclass within vehicle class
  • Specific vehicle model
• Not all vehicles within a class fall under a subclass.
• Vehicle identification covers only military vehicles. 
• Any other vehicle should be referred to by it's common name, e.g.
  • pickup 
  • truck
  • bicycle
  • jetski

• Auto-cannon: an automatic gun with a caliber between 20-60 mm
• Cannon: a gun bigger than an auto-cannon
• Direct fire: firing a weapon within the line-of-sight of the user of the weapon in a (relatively) flat trajectory
• Indirect fire: firing a weapon outside the line-of-sight of the user of the weapon

Rapidly identify a light vehicle as being:

• Wheeled
• Not armed with an autocannon or larger
• Not classified as an AFV

Those at higher proficiency are able to identify the subclasses as:

• Technical: civilian vehicle adapted for military use
• MRAP: mine resistant and protected against small arms
• Truck: military truck

Above: A column of US Army M1114 uparmored HMMWV (or Humvee)

Rapidly identify a AFV as being:

• Wheeled or tracked
• Armed with nothing to cannon, intended for direct fire
• Protected against at least small arms

Those at higher proficiency are able to identify the subclasses as:

• APC: armed with up to a heavy machine-gun
• IFV: armed with an autocannon
• Assault gun: armed with a cannon
• ATGM carrier: armed with ATGMs (anti-tank guided missile) as primary armament

Above: US Army M1126 Stryker AFV on patrol

Rapidly identify a tank as being:

• Tracked
• Turreted
• Protected against at least auto-cannon fire
• Having a cannon capable and intended for direct fire

There are no subclasses.

Above: A section of US Army M1A2 SEPv2 Tanks engaging enemy forces

Rapidly identify artillery as being:

• Towed, wheeled or tracked
• Having a cannon or rocket tubes intended for indirect fire

Those at higher proficiency are able to identify the subclasses as:

• Towed artillery: cannot move by itself
• Self propelled artillery: cannon/rocket tubes are mounted on a wheeled or tracked vehicle

Above: M119 Howitzer towed artillery unit in it's deployed configuration

Rapidly identify anti-air being:

• Primarily inteded for engaging helicopters or planes

Those at higher proficiency are able to identify the subclasses as:

• AAA (anti-air artillery): primary armament is one or more guns
• SAM: primary armament is surface-to-air missiles

Above: ZSU-23 Shilka Anti-Aircraft System

Rapidly identify a helicopter as being:

• Capable of powered flight
• Generating lift with one or more horizontally spinning fixed rotors

Those at higher proficiency are able to identify the subclasses as:

• Utility helicopter: armament is only intended for self defense (e.g. a door gun)
• Attack helicopter: armament is intended for offensive use (e.g. rocket pods)

Above: US Army AH-64D Apache Gunship

Rapidly identify tiltrotor aircraft as being:

• Capable of powered flight
• Generating lift with one or more horizontally spinning rotors capable of rotating in flight

There are no subclasses.

Rapidly identify a plane as being:

• Capable of powered flight
• Generating lift with wings

Those at higher proficiency are able to identify the subclasses as:

• Cargo plane: military plane used to ferry cargo or passengers
• Attack plane: slower flying aircraft intended for ground attack
• Fighter plane: fast flying aircraft intended to fight other planes

Above: US Air Force A-10A Warthog releasing a GBU-48 Enhanced Paveway II

Effective at short range against slow, low helicopters. Watch for back blast and smoke trails. Immediately deploy flares and break turn perpendicular to the launch site. Stop flaring once confirmed as an unguided rocket.

These weapons have high accuracy and heavy rounds that cause significant damage. Look for large tracers, muzzle flashes, and stable fire from vehicles or emplacements. Use break turns, jinking, and altitude changes to evade.

Small arms can penetrate unarmoured cockpits at close range but are less effective beyond 500 meters. Indicators include muzzle flashes, tracers, and sounds of hits. React by performing break turns, jinking, and changing altitude to use terrain for cover.

Long-range, guided missiles are deadly and hard to evade. Look for smoke trails and launch warnings. Deploy flares and chaff, fly perpendicular to the missile, and use terrain to mask until out of danger.

The main thing to remember is that the grids must be read right, and then up. Due to the fact that the map grid is composed entirely of numbers, it's important that you do not transpose them, else you're likely to send someone far, far away from where you needed them to go.

Above: Read the x (horizontal) axis first, then read the y (vertical) axis

• State the proword “GRID”
• Read the first three digits representing west to east (X Axis)
• Pause briefly
• Read the next three digits representing south to north (Y Axis)

• State the proword “GRID”
• Read the first four digits representing west to east (X Axis)
• Pause briefly
• Read the next four digits representing south to north (Y Axis)

Recognise points of elevation and hill numbers:

• 2 or 3-digit numbers on the tops of hills are known as hill numbers and should be referenced as ‘Hill xxx’
• The zoom scale of the map affects whether some of these numbers are visible (specifically the smaller/minor hills).
• In mountainous or hilly terrain there may be multiple hills with the same number. In these circumstances, provide additional context, such as a grid reference to ensure clarity of communication.

Read contour lines using the 2 types contour intervals marked on map:

• Thinner brown lines representing the places of same height at the minor interval (listed in the map legend)
• Thicker brown or red lines representing places of same height at the major interval level (5 times the minor interval)

Recognize the gradient (steepness) of the terrain, based on the spread of the contour lines (the closer contour lines are, the steeper the terrain)

Effective aircrew limit risk by applying tactical movement and minimizing exposure. Terrain masking, speed, and irregular flight paths reduce vulnerability. Avoid flying directly toward or away from enemy infantry to complicate their aim.

Altitude is key when facing gun-based anti-air. Flying higher makes it harder for gunners to lead shots, especially when combined with speed and unpredictable flight paths.

Against infrared-guided threats, flare/chaff deployment before and after an attack run disrupts missile lock. Expect rear-aspect engagements post-run, and dispense flares to confuse in-flight missiles. For radar-guided threats, deploy chaff when locked up or upon missile launch.

Flares target infrared-guided missiles by presenting false heat sources, either preventing lock-on or diverting launched missiles. Chaff confuses radar-guided threats by reflecting radar signals and creating false targets. In Arma 3, flares and chaff may deploy together unless modified systems allow separate use.

• Jinking: The act of making sharp, sudden, and unpredictable evasive manoeuvres. Jinking makes it difficult to track and lead an aerial target. It is most effective against unguided weapons such as machineguns, cannons, rockets, etc.   
• Break Turn: A sudden, sharp turn typically of 90 degrees or more. This is often used to attempt to evade a rocket or missile system, or when a heavy machinegun or anti-aircraft artillery piece has engaged the aircraft.   
• Emergency Climb/Dive: The aircraft gains or loses altitude rapidly in an attempt to evade a threat.  
• Defensive Roll: The aircraft rolls so that the bottom of it is between the threat weapon (typically machineguns) and the crew. A roll is usually accompanied by pulling the aircraft in the rolled direction, resulting in the aircraft pulling away from the threat.

All crew members must continuously share threat intelligence, friendly positions, and ammunition status. Critical threats such as missile launches or tracers must be reported immediately to prevent loss of aircraft or crew.

Pilots must communicate planned or ongoing maneuvers, especially when turreted systems are in use, allowing gunners to compensate for movement. They must also monitor and share updates on fuel levels and the aircraft’s airworthiness following any damage to ensure coordinated decisions on engagement and return-to-base timing.

Gunners must communicate weapon employment activities and targeting status so the pilot can adjust aircraft behaviour. If specific attack vectors or flight stability are required for effective weapon use, the gunner must clearly communicate these to the pilot.

Brevity words are essential for clear, fast, and unambiguous communication between aircrew during dynamic combat situations.

• Steady: Request to hold current heading to provide a stable firing platform.
• Rotate (left/right): Instruction to turn aircraft for optimal weapon employment.
• Popping up / Pop up: Aircraft is rising to clear an obstruction or take a shot.
• Dropping down / Drop down: Aircraft is descending behind cover, typically after engagement.
• Firing / Engaging: Gunner is actively firing weapons.
• Launched / Missile away: Gunner has launched a missile; aircraft may manoeuvre freely.
• Running in: Aircraft is beginning an attack run on a known target.
• Breaking (left/right/etc.): Aircraft is making a sharp turn in the indicated direction.

Quick threat callouts enable timely countermeasures and coordinated evasive action. 

• Missile, missile: Suspected or confirmed missile launch; triggers missile evasion protocol.
• Taking SAF: Aircraft is under small arms fire; evasive manoeuvres may be needed. Often shortened to “SAF, SAF.”
• Taking heavy: Aircraft is under heavy weapon fire such as vehicle-mounted guns. Often shortened to "Heavy, heavy."

Effective target and friendly identification depends on consistent use of contact brevity terms.

• Visual: Friendly forces have been sighted.
• Blind: Friendly forces cannot be seen.
• Tally: Hostile forces have been spotted.
• No joy: Hostile forces not seen.
• Tracers (direction): Enemy tracer fire seen, direction specified.
• Flashes (direction): Muzzle flashes spotted, direction specified.

Status terms inform the crew and controllers of critical conditions requiring resupply or immediate action.

• Winchester: Out of ammunition; unable to continue attack.
• Bingo: Low fuel; must return to base to avoid forced landing.

Line 1: Handshake

• Establish communications with the aircraft
• Identify yourself and declare a CAS request

Format:

[Aircraft Callsign], this is [FAC Callsign], CAS request

Example:

HAMMER 1-1, this is SIERRA 1, CAS request

Aircraft response:

HAMMER 1-1, send CAS request

Line 2: Target Location

• Provide the target location using the most appropriate reference method

Format (choose one):

• GRID [grid reference]
• SHIFT TRP [name], NORTH/SOUTH xx, EAST/WEST xx
• TRP [name]

Examples:

GRID 118094

SHIFT TRP ALPHA, NORTH 150, EAST 75

TRP ALPHA

Line 3: Target Description and Marking

• Briefly describe the target
• Include target size, type, environment, and marking method

Format:

[target type/size], [environment/cover], (marked by [method], [laser code if applicable])

Examples:

Infantry in treeline

Squad in compound, marked by red smoke

Single vehicle in open, marked by sparkle

Infantry in treeline, marked by laser, code 1688

Line 4: Friendly Positions

• Identify friendly positions relative to the target
• Include friendly marking methods where applicable

Format:

Friendlies [distance] [direction] of target, (marked by [method])

Examples:

Friendlies 200 metres south of target

Friendlies 150 metres east of target, marked by blue smoke

Friendlies no factor

Line 5: Attack Guidance, Restrictions & Ordnance

• Specify attack direction and restrictions
• Request desired ordnance
• State danger close where applicable

Format:

[attack direction], [restrictions], Request [ordnance], (danger close if applicable)

Examples:

Attack north to south, Request HE Rocket

Attack south to north, no fires west of target, Request Bomb

Attack east to west, remain north of friendlies, Request guns danger close

Attack north to south, light AA threat from compound west of target, Request Maverick

Aircraft response:

• Readback of lines 2-5

Plot target reference points, TRP, on prominent map and terrain features for the purposes of shared known points.

Label TRPs in the format "TRP [group identifier] [number 01–10]", where the distinct group identifier broadly summarises an area of operations, phase, or cardinal direction relative to friendly positions or movements. 

Examples: “TRP N01” or “TRP SE03”.

A FAC may require a CAS attack to be conducted from a specific direction to ensure safe and effective employment of weapons. This may be required for reasons including:

• Deconfliction with friendly forces.
• Avoidance of restricted airspace, such as air defence threats or national boundaries.
• Reducing the risk of friendly fire during Danger Close engagements.

Ingress and egress directions can be specified using one of two methods:

• Cardinal Direction
  • Example: “Ingress from north-east to south-west.”
     
• Pre-established Marker
  • Example: “Ingress from Marker Alpha.”

• When entering or re-entering an AO
  • Establish communications with the supported element
  • Provide aircraft capabilities and limitations

Format

[FAC Callsign], this is [Aircraft Callsign],

Include:

• Aircraft team composition
• Current location
• Available ordnance
  • Rockets
  • Guns
  • Missiles
  • Bombs
    • Skip if not applicable
• Night vision capability (if applicable)
• Available station time in minutes (if required)

Example

• SIERRA 1, this is HAMMER 1-1. 
• We are a flight of two A-10s, currently orbiting GRID 042167. 
• Ordnance available:
  • 38 HE Rockets
  • 2,400 rounds 30mm
  • 6 GBU12
• Night vision capable.
• 40 minutes station time remaining.

Aircraft should confirm target identification before engagement.
Examples:

Visual infantry in treeline

Visual red smoke

Following each attack:

• Aircraft report observed effects
• FAC assesses results
• FAC may re-clear, adjust, redirect, or terminate the engagement

• Monitor aircraft attacks and battlefield changes
• Update target information when required
• Adjust restrictions as necessary
• Terminate the attack if conditions become unsafe

Abort Command 

STOP STOP STOP

Immediately terminates the current attack run

Evasive Action 

EVADE

Directs the aircraft to break off and prioritise aircraft safety

Reclearing

Recleared, same target

Directs the aircraft to reengage the same target 

Terminating the engagement

Terminate, target destroyed

Ends the engagement 

• Confirm a correct readback has been received.
• Select the appropriate clearance type.
• Restate danger close if applicable
• Monitor the engagement and adjust, restrict, reclear or terminate the attack as required.

Format

Readback correct, Cleared In Type II

Readback correct, Cleared In Type III

Alternative Format

Cleared Hot Type X

Cleared to Engage Type X

Danger Close Example

Readback correct, Cleared Hot Type II, Danger Close

• Receive the readback.
• Confirm the receiver has correctly read back all required information.
• If the readback is incorrect:
  • State "Negative Readback".
  • Identify the incorrect line.
  • State the correct information for that line.
  • Direct the aircraft to read back the corrected line.
  • Verify the corrected readback.
  • Repeat as required until all information is correct.
• Proceed with request

Example

Sender:

Friendlies 200 metres north of target.

Receiver:

Negative Readback. Line 4. Friendlies 200 metres south of target. Read back Line 4.

Sender:

Line 4, friendlies 200 metres south of target.

Following a correct readback, the FAC may issue a clearance. The clearance type defines the level of engagement authority granted to the aircraft against the designated target or target area.

• Type II
  • Authorises a single engagement against the designated target.
• Type III
  • Authorises multiple engagements against the designated target or target area until:
    • The FAC terminates the engagement, or
    • The aircraft assesses the target has been neutralised

The FAC retains authority to adjust, restrict, or abort the attack at any time.

Aircraft may refuse a CAS request if they assess it creates unacceptable risk to the airframe or mission.

• Line 1: [Aircraft Callsign], this is [FAC Callsign], CAS request
  • Aircraft response: [Aircraft Callsign], send CAS request
• Line 2: GRID [grid reference] OR TRP [name] OR SHIFT TRP [name], NORTH/SOUTH [Distance in metres], EAST/WEST [Distance in metres]
• Line 3: [target type/size], [environment/cover], marked by [method], [laser code if applicable]
• Line 4: Friendlies [distance] [direction] of target, (marked by [method])
• Line 5: [attack direction], [restrictions], Request [ordnance], danger close (if applicable)
  • Aircraft response: Readback of lines 2-5

Danger Close refers to targets within 300 metres of friendly forces. Engagements at this distance present an increased risk of friendly casualties from weapon effects. As a result, both the FAC and aircrew should exercise additional caution, positively identify the target, and carefully consider the suitability of the selected weapon and attack profile before authorising and executing the strike.

During a CAS mission, the pilot must visually identify the target before employing weapons. The FAC should use the most appropriate target marking method for the situation and clearly state the method during Line 3 of the CAS request.

Smoke

Smoke may be deployed by hand or fired from a 40 mm launcher, either directly on or adjacent to the target. The FAC should state the smoke colour and describe the target's position relative to the smoke. Consider that other smoke of the same colour may already be present in the area, potentially causing confusion.

Tracer

If friendly forces are actively engaging the target, tracer fire may be used as a reference. This method is only appropriate where friendly and hostile forces use different tracer colours, reducing the risk of misidentification and fratricide.

Sparkle

During low-light operations, an infrared (IR) laser visible through night vision devices may be used to mark the target. The FAC should move the laser in a circular motion around the target, allowing the pilot to distinguish the stationary origin of the laser from the moving point marking the target. If necessary, the pilot may request a more obvious indication, such as pointing the laser vertically to identify the FAC's position or increasing the size of the circling motion.

Laser Designator

Where aircraft are capable of detecting laser designators, the FAC may use a laser designator to mark the target. The same laser may also be used to guide laser-guided munitions where appropriate.

Landmarks

Large, distinctive landmarks may be used to talk a pilot onto the target. Chosen landmarks should be clearly visible from the air, easily distinguishable from surrounding terrain, and unique enough to avoid confusion.

Map Markers and Grids

Map markers and grid references should not be relied upon for visual target acquisition. While they provide an approximate location, they are generally insufficient for a pilot to accurately identify a specific target without an accompanying visual reference.

Laser codes allow compatible munitions to be assigned a specific guidance code, preventing multiple laser sources from interfering with weapon guidance. In ACE, laser codes can be adjusted using Ctrl + Alt + Q/E to increment or change the currently selected laser code.

The FAC must communicate the active laser code to the pilot, allowing the aircraft to configure its weapons to guide onto the correct laser source.

This functionality only applies to ACE-compatible laser-guided munitions and will not function with non-ACE munitions. For simplicity, effective laser discipline and ensuring only one active laser source is present can achieve the same practical outcome in most situations.

Aircraft: F/A-18 — Raven 1
FAC: Mike 7

Line 1
FAC: “Raven One, this is Mike, CAS request.”
Aircraft: “Raven One, send CAS request.”

Line 2
FAC: “GRID 123,456.”

Line 3
FAC: “Hostile fortification, fortified position, marked by red smoke and laser, laser code 1234.”

Line 4
FAC: “Friendlies 700 metres east of target.”

Line 5
FAC: “Ingress from south, Request guided bomb.”

Aircraft Readback:
Aircraft: “Raven One, target GRID 123,456. Hostile fortification, fortified position, marked by red smoke and laser, laser code 1234. Friendlies 700 metres east of target. Ingress from south, requesting guided bomb.”

FAC:
“Raven One, readback correct, Cleared Hot Type II.”

Aircraft:
“Raven One, inbound.”

Aircraft (Target Identification):
“Raven One, visual red smoke, visual hostile fortification.”

(Aircraft conducts attack.)

Aircraft (Follow-on CAS Actions):
“Raven One, off target, observed impacts on target, fortification damaged.”

FAC:
“Raven One, assessing effects, stand by.”

Aircraft: A-10C — Hog 4
FAC: Anvil 7

Line 1
FAC: “Hog 4, this is Anvil, CAS request.”
Aircraft: “Hog 4, send CAS request.”

Line 2
FAC: “GRID 069,420.”

Line 3
FAC: “Infantry platoon, open terrain, marked by red smoke and tracers 200 metres south of a large industrial complex.”

Line 4
FAC: “Friendlies 200 metres north of target.”

Line 5
FAC: “Ingress from east, caution MANPADS in the area, Request guns, Danger Close.”

Aircraft Readback:
Aircraft: “Hog 4, target GRID 169,420. Infantry platoon, open terrain, marked by red smoke and tracers 100 metres north of a large industrial complex. Friendlies 200 metres north of target. Ingress from east, caution MANPADS in the area, requesting guns, Danger Close.”

FAC (Incorrect Readback):
“Negative. Target GRID 069,420. Infantry platoon, open terrain, marked by red smoke and tracers 200 metres south of a large industrial complex. Friendlies 200 metres north of target. Ingress from east, caution MANPADS in the area, requesting guns, Danger Close.”

Aircraft Readback:
“Hog 4, target GRID 069,420. Infantry platoon, open terrain, marked by red smoke and tracers 200 metres south of a large industrial complex. Friendlies 200 metres north of target. Ingress from east, caution MANPADS in the area, requesting guns, Danger Close.”

FAC:
“Hog 4, readback correct, Cleared Hot Type II, Danger Close.”

Aircraft:
“Hog 4, inbound.”

Aircraft (Target Identification):
“Hog 4, visual red smoke, visual infantry platoon.”

(Aircraft conducts attack.)

Aircraft (Follow-on CAS Actions):
“Hog 4, off target, observed impacts on target, infantry dispersing, enemy still active.”

FAC:
“Hog 4, re-clear same target, engage remaining infantry.”

Aircraft:
“Hog 4, in hot.”

(Aircraft conducts second attack.)

Aircraft (Follow-on CAS Actions):
“Hog 4, off target, observed impacts on target, enemy casualties confirmed, remaining infantry withdrawing.”

FAC:
“Hog 4, terminate, target neutralised.”

Aircraft: AH-6 — Egg 2
FAC: Reaper 7

Line 1
FAC: “Egg 2, this is Reaper, CAS request.”
Aircraft: “Egg 2, send CAS request.”

Line 2
FAC: “GRID 2234,4353.”

Line 3
FAC: “Six technicals with 50 cal, open terrain, marked by IR sparkle.”

Line 4
FAC: “Friendlies no factor.”

Line 5
FAC: “Ingress as required, Request guns.”

Aircraft Readback:
Aircraft: “Egg 2, target GRID 2234,4353. Six technicals with 50 cal, open terrain, marked by IR sparkle. Friendlies no factor. Requesting guns.”

FAC:
“Egg 2, readback correct, Cleared Hot Type III.”

Aircraft:
“Egg 2, inbound.”

Aircraft (Target Identification):
“Reaper, Egg 2, unable to determine target location from sparkle. Request increased laser movement.”

FAC:
“Egg 2, Reaper, Wilco. Sparkle now circling the target.”

(FAC increases the IR laser movement around the target to improve target identification.)

Aircraft:
“Egg 2, visual technicals, in hot.”

(Aircraft conducts first attack.)

Aircraft (Follow-on CAS Actions):
“Egg 2, off target, observed impacts on target, two technicals destroyed, four remaining.”

FAC:
“Egg 2, continue engagement.”

(Aircraft conducts additional attacks.)

Aircraft:
“Egg 2, off target, observed impacts on target, remaining technicals destroyed.”

FAC:
“Egg 2, terminate, target neutralised.”

Command is the authority to decide and prioritise.
Control is the regulation and direction of forces to implement decisions.

Command

• Establishes intent.
• Allocates resources.
• Sets priorities.

Control

• Issues instructions.
• Synchronises timing.
• Adjusts actions during execution.

Effective leaders command centrally and control selectively to preserve initiative.

Accept responsibility for decisions and outcomes within the element:

• Address errors immediately through constructive feedback and corrections, not public blame.
• Capture faults, causes, and responsibility during AARs for formal follow-up if required.

Maintain control of of the element:

• Issue clear tasks aligned with intent to all subordinate elements.
• Monitor execution and intervene when elements drift off task.
• Maintain continuous two-way information flow up and down the chain.
• Synchronise subordinate actions to prevent isolation or conflict.
• Re-task or re-prioritise elements as the situation changes.

• Maintain calm posture, tone, and decision-making under stress.
• Issue clear, deliberate orders during friction or failure.
• Suppress visible frustration, panic, or emotional reactions.
• Take appropriate measures to stabilise the element during unexpected events.

Commander’s Intent defines the purpose of an operation, the desired end state, and the key effects required to achieve mission success. It provides direction without prescribing detailed execution, enabling subordinate leaders to act independently while remaining aligned with higher objectives.

Commander’s Intent exists at every level of command:

• Fireteam level: intent clarifies the immediate objective and priority of effort (e.g. suppress, secure, clear, hold). It ensures members understand what must be achieved if communication is lost or conditions change.
• Squad level: intent describes the squad’s role within the platoon plan, the decisive action required, and the conditions that define success. It guides manoeuvre, tempo, and risk decisions.
• Platoon level: intent establishes how squads combine to achieve a broader tactical effect. It identifies the main effort, supporting efforts, and the operational end state.
• Company level: intent defines the overall tactical objective, desired battlefield conditions, and acceptable risk. It shapes subordinate planning and ensures unity of effort across multiple platoons.

Commander’s Intent allows initiative within boundaries. When plans break down, leaders act in accordance with intent rather than waiting for orders. Clear intent preserves momentum, cohesion, and operational effectiveness at every level.

Keep your direct subordinates informed with all the needed information for them to function:

• Updates on the tactical situation
• Current tasking and intent

Ensure you give enough information so that another person can take over leadership without needing additional information.

When preparing for a mission, take care of the following:

• Bring the correct equipment, in the right quantities
• Set standard formations, plans for movement and other actions-on
• Ensure succession of command is clear

Make decisive decisions:

• Make a clear decision in a timely manner in line with the commander's intent, even when information is incomplete.
• Communicate the decision clearly to the element.
• Commit to the decision and direct execution without hesitation.
• Avoid repeatedly changing decisions unless the situation has materially changed.
• Maintain confidence and composure to reinforce cohesion and trust within the element.

Evaluate the element’s combat effectiveness, resources, and condition before and during task execution:

• Recognise when assigned tasks exceed current capability or risk becoming unachievable.
• Identify indicators that continued action will result in unnecessary losses or mission failure.
• Decide to pause, withdraw, or disengage when risk outweighs potential gain.
• Communicate limitations and recommended actions clearly up the chain of command.
• Preserve personnel and equipment to enable future tasking and continued operations.

Dominating the battlefield is the ability to control the tempo, positioning, and flow of combat to achieve objectives while limiting enemy freedom of action.

Key methods of achieving dominance:

• Control key terrain: High ground, choke points, avenues of approach.
• Maintain initiative: Force the enemy to react.
• Coordinate forces: Synchronize squads, fire teams, and support.
• Situational awareness: Monitor the battlefield to make informed decisions.

Why It’s Important:

• Reduces risk to friendly forces.
• Limits enemy options and predictability.
• Maintains operational tempo.
• Maximizes combat effectiveness.
• Increases likelihood of mission success.

Follow the CLAP mnemonic to use with every order:

• Clear: issue direct, concise and actionable tasks.
• Loud: ensure you are heard over chatter, comms and combat.
• As an order: assert what you are saying is an order, and not something else like a question.
• with Pauses: Break up the order in to short phrases separated by short pauses to allow the receiver to process the content.

When issuing an order, use the following format:

• Who: who is expected to execute the order
• What: the thing that needs to be done
• When: when to start the execution

When given an order, confirm the order and make a plan and act to implement the intent of the order. When unable to act, make this clear to avoid misunderstandings or timing issues.

When disagreeing with a given order: 

• Communicate your objection
• State the reason and 
• If possible suggest an alternative. 

If despite the disagreement the order is confirmed, execute it to the best of your ability without complaint or argument.

Be mindful to not disagree with every order, keeping in mind that there might be reasons not yet apparent why the order is given.

• Use operational situations as teaching opportunities when time permits.
• Explain the reasoning behind decisions and actions.
• Guide individuals to arrive at conclusions rather than simply issuing correction.
• Issue immediate corrective commands when required by tempo or risk.
• Conduct follow-up explanation during AAR if correction was time-critical.
• Maintain professional tone; avoid belittling or ego-driven instruction.

• Moderate and arbitrate the discourse between subordinate elements. In stressful environments, tensions can occasionally rise high, so it is important to nip conflict or negative sentiment in the bud before it infects the entire team.
• Ensure everyone feels like a valued and included part of the team
• Prevent the team from sliding into an overly casual atmosphere, where nobody is taking anything serious anymore. There is a time for laughter, and a time for focus.

Wherever possible, delegate tasks to subordinate elements. Trust people to do the task they are assigned, and give them the needed freedom to do so without interfering.

In other words, tell people what you want, not how to do it.

• Maintain positive control of the aircraft before addressing navigation or communication tasks
• Maintain awareness of aircraft position, route, terrain, and hazards before conducting non-essential communications
• Avoid becoming task-saturated by radio traffic to the detriment of aircraft control
• Prioritise aircraft control and navigation during emergencies, combat engagements, or unexpected events
• Apply correct task prioritisation across all phases of flight in accordance with Aviate, Navigate, Communicate principles

• Avoid unnecessary endangerment of friendly personnel during mission execution
• Take appropriate action to prevent avoidable aircraft loss or damage
• Demonstrate willingness to abort, divert, or modify missions when safety considerations outweigh mission requirements
• Prioritise preservation of personnel and aircraft when making operational decisions

When workload increases or multiple tasks compete for attention, apply the following priorities in order:

1. Aviate

Maintain positive control of the aircraft and continue to fly safely. Aircraft control takes priority over all other tasks.

2. Navigate

Maintain awareness of position, route, terrain, and surrounding airspace to safely reach the intended destination.

3. Communicate

Communicate with JTACs, FACs, air traffic control, or other agencies once aircraft control and navigation are assured.

This prioritisation helps prevent aircrew from becoming distracted by communications or mission tasks at the expense of safely operating the aircraft. In situations where priorities conflict, aircraft control should always take precedence.

When in control of an aircraft, apply the following priorities in order:

1. Preservation of Life

Protect the lives of aircrew, passengers, and friendly personnel above all other considerations.

2. Preservation of Aircraft

Operate the aircraft responsibly to prevent unnecessary damage or loss whenever possible.

3. Mission Success

Complete the assigned mission once the safety of personnel and aircraft has been reasonably assured.

These priorities provide a framework for decision-making when mission requirements, aircraft safety, and personnel safety compete. When forced to choose between priorities, higher priorities should take precedence over lower priorities.

Aircrew in UNITAF occupy a specialised role that requires a different perspective from most other combat positions. Understanding the purpose of aviation assets within the wider mission can help aircrew contribute more effectively to mission success.

Ground forces remain the primary focus of most operations. Arma is fundamentally designed around ground combat, and missions are generally planned with infantry and ground manoeuvre as the central element. As a result, there may be periods where aviation assets have limited tasks or where aircrew must adapt their employment to support the needs of the ground force. Flexibility and patience are important qualities for aviation personnel.

Aircraft possess capabilities that can significantly influence the outcome of an operation. Transport aircraft can rapidly move forces across the battlefield, while attack and reconnaissance platforms may provide firepower or situational awareness far beyond what is available to ground units. These capabilities make aviation assets valuable force multipliers.

However, these advantages come with corresponding responsibilities. Mistakes in aviation can have consequences that affect large portions of the force. The loss of a transport aircraft may delay an operation or result in significant casualties. Similarly, the firepower available to some aircraft can cause substantial friendly losses if employed incorrectly. Effective aircrew therefore balance initiative with discipline, ensuring their actions support the wider mission rather than dominate it.

Aircrew should also be aware of the technical limitations of the Arma engine. The simulation cannot fully represent the distances, sensor capabilities, object density, and air defence networks that would exist in real-world aviation operations. Pilots may observe mission support activities, notice areas where enemy forces have not been spawned, or encounter gaps in air defence coverage that exist for gameplay and performance reasons rather than tactical realism.

In these situations, it is beneficial to consider what would realistically be expected in the operational environment rather than exploiting engine limitations for advantage. Maintaining this mindset helps preserve immersion, supports fair gameplay, and contributes to a more authentic experience for all participants.

Aircrew operate under ground control restrictions at all times. Outside the area of operations (AO), pilots report to an Air Traffic Controller (ATC). Inside the AO, control is passed to a Forward Air Controller (FAC). An exception is when performing Combat Air Patrol (CAP) duties, where control is maintained by an ATC or Air Battle Manager (ABM).

Pilots must maintain continuous communication with their assigned controller, providing regular updates on status and capabilities. Controllers will relay updates on ground and air situations and coordinate target assignments.

Key communication practices include:

• Checking in with your controller upon handoff and reporting any status changes.
• Receiving situation updates after check-in and when conditions evolve.
• Accepting target designations and guidance during attack phases.
• Obtaining clearance before engaging targets.
• Receiving Battle Damage Assessment (BDA) feedback and mission clearance when tasks are complete.

If you identify a target outside of your controller’s sight, inform them immediately. Do not engage any targets without explicit clearance, regardless of perceived threat level or risk to friendly forces.

Takeoff from a runway using the following method:

1. Line up along the centre line of the runway
2. Lower the flaps to the halfway position; if the aircraft has capability.
3. Smoothly throttle up to 100%
4. After reaching the aircraft specific rotation speed, smoothly pull the nose up to achieve 10 degrees of climb.
5. Retract the landing gear after achieving a positive rate of climb.
6. Retract the flaps.

• Maintain assigned holding altitude within ±50 meters.
• Apply smooth, minimal control inputs to prevent oscillation or overcorrection.
• Anticipate aircraft pitch and power changes to stabilize climb/descent trends early.
• Utilize onboard Altitude Hold systems when available to maintain consistent altitude.
• Continuously cross-check altitude instruments while in holding patterns.

• Maintain assigned heading within ±2 degrees during CAS runs, cargo drops, and paradrop operations.
• Establish heading prior to run-in and minimize lateral corrections once stabilized.
• Use available heading references (DUI, MFD, or compass display) to confirm alignment.
• Apply smooth roll inputs to prevent overcorrection and heading oscillation.
• Utilize onboard Heading Hold systems when available to maintain directional stability.

• Climb or descend to assigned orbit altitude prior to entering orbit pattern.
• Navigate to the assigned focal point and establish the required orbit radius.
• Maintain assigned orbit direction (clockwise or counterclockwise) without reversing unless directed.
• Apply small, smooth control inputs to preserve stable turn rate and altitude.
• Continuously monitor altitude, radius distance, and ground reference point during orbit.
• Anticipate aircraft drift and correct early rather than applying large corrections.

Land on a runway using the following method:

1. Visually align with the runway centerline when possible.
2. Reduce throttle and use air brakes to reach approach speed while remaining above stall speed.
3. Lower flaps fully and extend landing gear prior to final approach.
4. When crossing the runway threshold, reduce throttle to 0% and slightly raise the nose to reduce descent rate.
5. Slowly lower the nose to allow the nose wheel to make contact with the runway.
6. Apply wheel brakes and air brakes to slow the aircraft (if available).
7. Maintain runway alignment while decelerating to taxi speed.
8. Follow Air Traffic Control instructions and exit the runway using the directed taxiway.

• Position cargo close to the aircraft loading point, typically the rear cargo access area.
• Load cargo using one of the available interaction methods:
• Use the cargo interaction menu to select Load and then select the aircraft as the target.
  • Use the interaction scroll menu on the aircraft, select cargo, then select Load/Unload as required.
• For unloading cargo:
  • Interact with the aircraft, select the cargo inventory, then select Deploy/Unload.

Paradrop troops/cargo using the following method:

1. Identify and confirm the designated LZ prior to approach.
2. Calculate drop alignment point above the LZ, accounting for wind strength and direction. Flying into the wind is preferred to improve drop accuracy.
3. Establish level flight at low, stable airspeed during approach to the drop point.
4. Perform the drop
   1. For cargo drops: initiate drop sequence approximately 7 seconds before reaching the drop point using the cargo interaction menu
   2. For troop drops: announce drop status over comms:
      1. Communicate “RED LIGHT” to the Jump Master 20 seconds before reaching the LZ.
      2. Communicate  “GREEN LIGHT” to the Jump Master 10 seconds before reaching the LZ.
5. Maintain steady flight path through drop execution.
6. After release, immediately egress from the drop zone and resume mission flight profile.

• Coordinate laser codes and timing prior to attack execution
• Maintain continuous communication with designating aircraft or ground elements
• Confirm target designation prior to weapons release
• Monitor weapon guidance throughout the attack sequence
• Execute coordinated egress following weapons employment

• Maintain continuous terrain awareness during ingress and egress
• Utilize terrain features to reduce line-of-sight exposure to threats
• Maintain safe obstacle and terrain clearance at all times
• Transition from masked ingress to attack profile in a controlled manner
• Execute egress while minimising threat exposure

• Acquire and confirm positive target identification prior to release
• Maintain effective sensor or targeting pod management
• Release guided munition within approved weapon parameters
• Maintain target designation or tracking as required
• Maintain stand-off positioning during employment
• Execute controlled egress following weapons release

• Conduct low-altitude ingress while maintaining terrain clearance
• Initiate pop-up manoeuvre at the planned reference point
• Acquire and engage targets during the climb or attack phase
• Maintain controlled aircraft parameters throughout the manoeuvre
• Execute rapid egress following weapons employment

• Maintain stable altitude, heading, and airspeed during the attack run
• Establish correct release parameters prior to weapons employment
• Release ordnance within the planned delivery window
• Maintain aircraft control throughout attack and egress
• Execute safe departure from the target area following release

• Align aircraft accurately with the target area during the attack run
• Maintain controlled closure rate and adhere to the firing window
• Manage exposure to avoid oversaturation of the target area
• Execute controlled pull-off and disengagement after weapons release
• Maintain awareness of friendly positions throughout the attack

• Establish correct dive angle for the selected attack profile
• Maintain stable attack parameters throughout the dive
• Release weapons within the planned release window
• Execute controlled pull-out above minimum recovery altitude
• Maintain orientation and situational awareness during recovery

• Employ weapons only from stable attack profiles
• Confirm positive target identification prior to weapons release
• Maintain stable aircraft parameters throughout delivery
• Comply with rules of engagement, attack restrictions, and clearance requirements
• Maintain aircraft control during all phases of weapons employment
• Abort attack when conditions become unsafe or non-compliant

Definition

GPS guided munitions are precision-guided weapons that use satellite navigation and onboard guidance systems to strike pre-programmed coordinates.

• All-weather precision attacks against fixed targets.
• Engagement of targets requiring accurate coordinate-based strikes.

• Global Positioning System / Internal Navigation System (GPS/INS).

• GBU-31 JDAM
• GBU-38 JDAM

TV guided munitions are precision-guided weapons that use electro-optical imagery to track and engage visually identifiable targets.

• Precision attacks against stationary or slow-moving targets.
• Engagement of targets in high visibility conditions.

• Electro-Optical (EO) / Television guidance.

• AGM-65A Maverick
• AGM-62 Walleye
• KAB-500Kr

Infrared guided munitions are precision-guided weapons that track thermal signatures emitted by targets.

• Precision attacks against vehicles.
• Engagement of targets with sufficient thermal signatures.

• Passive Infrared seeker.

• AGM-65D Maverick
• Brimstone
• Spike-ER

Laser-guided munitions are precision-guided weapons that track reflected laser energy from a designated target.

• Precision engagement of point targets.
• Minimise collateral damage.

• Semi-Active Laser (SAL).
• Laser Beam Riding (LBR).

• GBU-12 Paveway
• AGM-114 Hellfire
• Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS)

Unguided rockets are self-propelled explosive projectiles launched from aircraft rocket pods or pylons.

• Light vehicles.
• Infantry.
• Structures.

• Unguided.
• Accuracy depends on pilot aim, aircraft positioning, and firing parameters.

• Hydra 70
• FFAR
• S-5

Unguided bombs are free-fall munitions that follow a ballistic trajectory after release.

• Area suppression.
• Destruction of structures.
• Destruction of fortifications.
• Destruction of vehicles.

• Unguided.
• Accuracy depends on pilot aim, aircraft positioning, and release parameters.

• Mk 81
• Mk 84
• FAB-500

Guns and cannons are internally or externally mounted direct-fire weapons that rely on pilot aim and aircraft positioning to engage targets.

• Personnel.
• Light vehicles.
• Soft targets.

• Unguided.
• Accuracy depends on pilot aim and aircraft positioning.

• M61 Vulcan - 20 mm rotary cannon.
• GAU-8/A Avenger - 30 mm rotary cannon.
• M2 Browning - .50 calibre machine gun.

Radar guided munitions are precision-guided weapons that use radar systems to detect, track, and engage targets.

• Suppression of Enemy Air Defence (SEAD).
• Engagement of radar-emitting targets.

• Active Radar.
• Passive Radar.

• AGM-88 HARM
• AGM-88E AARGM
• AGM-84 Harpoon

• Employ radar guided munitions using the appropriate guidance method:
  • Lock-On
    • Use the targeting pod to acquire and lock onto the target, similar to laser-guided munitions.
  • Radar-Guided
    • Use aircraft radar to acquire and lock onto radar-emitting targets before weapon release.
• Release the munition once the required lock has been achieved.
• Assess observed effects following weapons release.

• FM/BS-1742 - Execute level bombing procedures or FM/BS-1744 - Execute stand-off guided munition delivery (Primary)
  • Employ munitions from a controlled distance while maintaining the required guidance parameters.

• Positively identify the target before engagement.
• Acquire and maintain a visual lock using the targeting pod.
• Confirm sufficient target contrast for successful tracking.
• Release the munition within the correct engagement envelope.
• Maintain target tracking until weapon impact where required.
• Assess observed effects following weapons release.

• FM/BS-1742 - Execute level bombing procedures or FM/BS-1740 - Execute dive attack procedures (Primary)
  • Conduct a controlled attack profile while maintaining target tracking.
• FM/BS-1743 - Execute pop-up attack procedures (Optional Approach)
  • Use a rapid climb from concealed terrain to acquire and engage the target.
• FM/BS-1745 - Execute terrain masking attack procedures (Optional Approach)
  • Use terrain to reduce exposure while approaching the target.

• Positively identify the target before engagement.
• Acquire and maintain an infrared lock on the target.
• Confirm sufficient thermal contrast for successful guidance.
• Release the munition within the correct engagement envelope.
• Maintain target tracking until weapon impact where required.
• Assess observed effects following weapons release.

• FM/BS-1742 - Execute level bombing procedures or FM/BS-1740 - Execute dive attack procedures (Primary)
  • Conduct a controlled attack profile while maintaining infrared guidance parameters.
• FM/BS-1743 - Execute pop-up attack procedures (Optional Approach)
  • Use a rapid climb from concealed terrain to acquire and engage the target.
• FM/BS-1745 - Execute terrain masking attack procedures (Optional Approach)
  • Use terrain to reduce exposure while approaching the target.

• Positively identify the target before engagement.
• Confirm a continuous laser designation is available.
• Align the aircraft and release the munition within the correct engagement envelope.
• Maintain laser designation until weapon impact.
• Assess observed effects following weapons release.

• FM/BS-1742 - Execute level bombing procedures (Primary)
  • Conduct a level attack profile while releasing the munition within the required guidance parameters.
• FM/BS-1740 - Execute dive attack procedures (Secondary)
  • Conduct a descending attack profile to improve target accuracy.
• FM/BS-1746 - Execute buddy lasing and cooperative attack procedures (Optional)
  • Coordinate with another platform to provide laser designation or target guidance.
• FM/BS-1743 - Execute pop-up attack procedures (Optional)
  • Use a rapid climb from concealed terrain to acquire and engage the target.
• FM/BS-1745 - Execute terrain masking attack procedures (Optional)
  • Use terrain to reduce exposure while approaching the target.

• Positively identify the target before engagement.
• Maintain a stable aircraft attitude during weapons employment.
• Establish and maintain an effective firing range.
• Employ rockets as single shots or ripple fire based on the target and situation.
• Assess observed effects following weapons release.

Employment Techniques

• FM/BS-1740 - Execute dive attack procedures (Primary)
  • Conduct a descending attack profile to improve accuracy against the target.
• FM/BS-1743 - Execute pop-up attack procedures (Optional)
  • Use a rapid climb from concealed terrain to acquire and engage the target.
• FM/BS-1745 - Execute terrain masking attack procedures (Optional)
  • Use terrain to reduce exposure while approaching the target.

• Positively identify the target before engagement.
• Establish a stable attack profile appropriate for the chosen employment method.
• Align the aircraft with the target.
• Release ordnance based on altitude, speed, and attack angle.
• Assess observed effects following weapons release.

Employment Techniques

• FM/BS-1740 - Execute dive attack procedures (Primary)
  • Conduct a descending attack profile to improve accuracy against the target.
• FM/BS-1742 - Execute level bombing procedures (Primary)
  • Conduct a level attack profile while releasing ordnance at the calculated release point.
• FM/BS-1743 - Execute pop-up attack procedures (Optional)
  • Use a rapid climb from concealed terrain to acquire and engage the target.
• FM/BS-1745 - Execute terrain masking attack procedures (Optional)
  • Use terrain to reduce exposure while approaching the target.

• Positively identify the target before engagement.
• Align the aircraft with the target.
• Maintain a stable attack profile and tracking path.
• Employ controlled firing bursts during the attack.
• Assess observed effects following each firing pass.

Employment Techniques

• FM/BS-1741 - Execute strafing procedures (Primary)
  • Conduct a controlled attack run while maintaining alignment with the target. 
• FM/BS-1745 - Execute terrain masking attack procedures (Approach)
  • Use terrain to reduce exposure while approaching the target. 
• FM/BS-1743 - Execute pop-up attack procedures (Optional)
  • Use a rapid climb from concealed terrain to acquire and engage the target.

All aircrew shall ensure that all targets are positively identified prior to any weapons employment.

Engagement without positive target identification is prohibited. Positive identification is required to prevent fratricide (blue-on-blue) and unnecessary collateral damage.

• Confirm target identity using visual, sensor, or controller-provided references
• Correlate target location with briefing data
• Distinguish target from friendly forces and non-combatants within the engagement area
• Maintain continuous target tracking through the final attack phase
• Abort engagement if positive identification cannot be maintained

Any participant in a Close Air Support (CAS) engagement has the authority and responsibility to issue an abort call if unsafe conditions are observed.

Abort authority exists to ensure safety, prevent fratricide, and maintain control of the engagement environment. It may be exercised by any involved party when required conditions for a safe engagement are no longer met.

• Immediately discontinue attack run upon receiving an abort call or identifying unsafe conditions
• Acknowledge abort instruction clearly and concisely
• Maintain aircraft control and safe separation from the target area
• Transition to holding or egress profile as directed
• Do not re-engage without explicit re-clearance

• Cease attack operations immediately upon loss of communications
• Transition to pre-briefed lost communications plan or safe egress route
• Avoid weapons release without positive re-establishment of control and clearance
• Attempt to re-establish communications using alternate methods or frequencies
• Report aircraft status upon regaining communications

• Line 1: [Aircraft Callsign], this is [FAC Callsign], CAS request
  • Aircraft response: [Aircraft Callsign], send CAS request
• Line 2: GRID [grid reference] OR TRP [name] OR SHIFT TRP [name], NORTH/SOUTH [Distance in metres], EAST/WEST [Distance in metres]
• Line 3: [target type/size], [environment/cover], marked by [method], [laser code if applicable]
• Line 4: Friendlies [distance] [direction] of target, (marked by [method])
• Line 5: [attack direction], [restrictions], Request [ordnance], danger close (if applicable)
  • Aircraft response: Readback of lines 2-5

• Establish communication with the FAC.
• Receive and interpret the CAS request.
• Correctly identify:
  • Target location.
  • Target description.
  • Target marking method.
  • Friendly force location.
  • Attack direction and restrictions.
  • Requested ordnance.
• Provide an accurate readback of Lines 2–5.
• Confirm visual identification of the target before engagement.
• Execute the approved attack profile.
• Report observed effects after engagement.
• Request clarification when information is incomplete or conflicting.

• Observe the target area after weapons impact when safe to do so
• Report effects using standardized BDA terminology (e.g., hit, mobility kill, destroyed)
• Provide accurate location and timing of observed effects
• Distinguish confirmed effects from estimated or unconfirmed observations
• Maintain concise and structured reporting format

Close Air Support (CAS) communications should follow prioritisation principles to ensure safety-critical information is transmitted without delay.

• Prioritise abort calls and safety-critical messages above all other transmissions
• Interrupt or delay non-essential communication when required for safety
• Maintain clarity during high-tempo communication environments
• Recognise and appropriately escalate urgent CAS updates
• Avoid unnecessary radio congestion during critical attack phases

Aircraft: F/A-18 — Raven 1
FAC: Mike 7

Line 1
FAC: “Raven One, this is Mike, CAS request.”
Aircraft: “Raven One, send CAS request.”

Line 2
FAC: “GRID 123,456.”

Line 3
FAC: “Hostile fortification, fortified position, marked by red smoke and laser, laser code 1234.”

Line 4
FAC: “Friendlies 700 metres east of target.”

Line 5
FAC: “Ingress from south, Request guided bomb.”

Aircraft Readback:
Aircraft: “Raven One, target GRID 123,456. Hostile fortification, fortified position, marked by red smoke and laser, laser code 1234. Friendlies 700 metres east of target. Ingress from south, requesting guided bomb.”

FAC:
“Raven One, readback correct, Cleared Hot Type II.”

Aircraft:
“Raven One, inbound.”

Aircraft (Target Identification):
“Raven One, visual red smoke, visual hostile fortification.”

(Aircraft conducts attack.)

Aircraft (Follow-on CAS Actions):
“Raven One, off target, observed impacts on target, fortification damaged.”

FAC:
“Raven One, assessing effects, stand by.”

Aircraft: A-10C — Hog 4
FAC: Anvil 7

Line 1
FAC: “Hog 4, this is Anvil, CAS request.”
Aircraft: “Hog 4, send CAS request.”

Line 2
FAC: “GRID 069,420.”

Line 3
FAC: “Infantry platoon, open terrain, marked by red smoke and tracers 200 metres south of a large industrial complex.”

Line 4
FAC: “Friendlies 200 metres north of target.”

Line 5
FAC: “Ingress from east, caution MANPADS in the area, Request guns, Danger Close.”

Aircraft Readback:
Aircraft: “Hog 4, target GRID 169,420. Infantry platoon, open terrain, marked by red smoke and tracers 100 metres north of a large industrial complex. Friendlies 200 metres north of target. Ingress from east, caution MANPADS in the area, requesting guns, Danger Close.”

FAC (Incorrect Readback):
“Negative. Target GRID 069,420. Infantry platoon, open terrain, marked by red smoke and tracers 200 metres south of a large industrial complex. Friendlies 200 metres north of target. Ingress from east, caution MANPADS in the area, requesting guns, Danger Close.”

Aircraft Readback:
“Hog 4, target GRID 069,420. Infantry platoon, open terrain, marked by red smoke and tracers 200 metres south of a large industrial complex. Friendlies 200 metres north of target. Ingress from east, caution MANPADS in the area, requesting guns, Danger Close.”

FAC:
“Hog 4, readback correct, Cleared Hot Type II, Danger Close.”

Aircraft:
“Hog 4, inbound.”

Aircraft (Target Identification):
“Hog 4, visual red smoke, visual infantry platoon.”

(Aircraft conducts attack.)

Aircraft (Follow-on CAS Actions):
“Hog 4, off target, observed impacts on target, infantry dispersing, enemy still active.”

FAC:
“Hog 4, re-clear same target, engage remaining infantry.”

Aircraft:
“Hog 4, in hot.”

(Aircraft conducts second attack.)

Aircraft (Follow-on CAS Actions):
“Hog 4, off target, observed impacts on target, enemy casualties confirmed, remaining infantry withdrawing.”

FAC:
“Hog 4, terminate, target neutralised.”

Aircraft: AH-6 — Egg 2
FAC: Reaper 7

Line 1
FAC: “Egg 2, this is Reaper, CAS request.”
Aircraft: “Egg 2, send CAS request.”

Line 2
FAC: “GRID 2234,4353.”

Line 3
FAC: “Six technicals with 50 cal, open terrain, marked by IR sparkle.”

Line 4
FAC: “Friendlies no factor.”

Line 5
FAC: “Ingress as required, Request guns.”

Aircraft Readback:
Aircraft: “Egg 2, target GRID 2234,4353. Six technicals with 50 cal, open terrain, marked by IR sparkle. Friendlies no factor. Requesting guns.”

FAC:
“Egg 2, readback correct, Cleared Hot Type III.”

Aircraft:
“Egg 2, inbound.”

Aircraft (Target Identification):
“Reaper, Egg 2, unable to determine target location from sparkle. Request increased laser movement.”

FAC:
“Egg 2, Reaper, Wilco. Sparkle now circling the target.”

(FAC increases the IR laser movement around the target to improve target identification.)

Aircraft:
“Egg 2, visual technicals, in hot.”

(Aircraft conducts first attack.)

Aircraft (Follow-on CAS Actions):
“Egg 2, off target, observed impacts on target, two technicals destroyed, four remaining.”

FAC:
“Egg 2, continue engagement.”

(Aircraft conducts additional attacks.)

Aircraft:
“Egg 2, off target, observed impacts on target, remaining technicals destroyed.”

FAC:
“Egg 2, terminate, target neutralised.”