Section 105-ace Flashcards
Explain the purpose of Marine Corps Aviation
Air Control
• Air control is the authority to direct the physical maneuver of aircraft in flight or to direct an aircraft or surface-to-air weapons unit to engage a specific target. Air control includes airspace management and airspace control.
Explain the composition, mission, and purpose of a Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW).
Organizationally
• Marine aviation is divided into three active duty MAWs and one Reserve MAW.
• Each MAW has a unique organizational structure.
• The MAW provides the personnel and equipment for the MAGTF ACE.
Operationally
• The ACE task organizes with various resources from the MAW that are necessary to complete the ACE’s assigned mission.
• Typically, the ACE supports a MEF with one or more MAWs.
• Support to the MEF may include assets from more than one MAW that are task organized to form a MAW (reinforced).
• MAWs include Marine aircraft, air control, and wing support groups. Each group includes the squadrons and/or battalions that are necessary to complete the groups’ roles in Marine aviation.
• MAWs and groups are not organized according to tables of organization (T/Os), but rather are task organized to accomplish the missions assigned.
• Each of the four wings may have a different organization; however, each wing is capable of performing all six functions of Marine aviation.
What is the function, mission and composition of a Marine Aircraft Group (MAG)?
• The MAG is the smallest aviation unit that is designed to conduct operations with no outside assistance except access to a source of supply.
• MAGs normally contain either fixed-wing or rotary-wing aircraft in order to streamline logistic support requirements
• MAGs can be task-organized to include any combination of fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft, as well as other supporting units.
• A MAG can also be task-organized into an ACE for a particular mission in order to provide one or more aviation functions to a MAGTF.
• The primary mission of a MAG VF/VA is to conduct AAW and OAS operations from advance bases, FOBs, and aircraft carriers.
Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron (MALS)
• The MALS provides aviation-logistic support, guidance, and direction to MAG squadrons on behalf of the commanding officer, as well as logistic support for Navy funded equipment in the supporting MWSS, MACS, and Marine wing mobile calibration complex
• Provide intermediate-level maintenance for aircraft
• Provide aviation supply support
• Provide class V (A) ammunition logistic support
• Coordinate the Marine aviation logistic support program (MALSP)
• Screen and inspect non-serviceable aeronautical material
• Conduct training to qualify organic and supported squadron personnel for performing assigned missions and tasks
• Provide data processing support to aviation supply
Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR)
• The VMGR provides aerial refueling service in support of Fleet Marine Force (FMF) air operations and provides assault air transport of personnel, equipment, and supplies
• Provide tactical aerial refueling service
• Provide long-range aerial refueling service
• Provide assault air transport for air-landed and air-delivered troops, supplies, and equipment
• Provide an aircraft platform for the airborne DASC
• Provide ground refueling service
• Provide air transport service for the evacuation of casualties and noncombatants
• Within the capability of assigned aircraft and equipment, maintain the capability to operate with or without the assistance of airborne, surface, or ground controllers
Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (VMR)
• The VMAQ conducts airborne EW in support of FMF operations
• Conduct air borne EA and EW support operations
• Conduct EA in support of training
• Process and provide mission data for updating and maintaining an electronic order of battle
• Maintain the capability of operating from aircraft carriers, advance bases, and expeditionary airfields
• Maintain capability to operate during darkness and under all weather conditions
• Maintain the capability to deploy or conduct extended-range operations that require aerial refueling
• Perform organizational maintenance on assigned aircraft
Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron (VMU)
• The VMU operates and maintains a UAV system to provide unmanned aerial reconnaissance support to the MAGTF
• Conduct reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition (RSTA)
• Provide real-time target information to the DASC and fire support coordination center (FSCC)
• Provide information to assist adjusting indirect- fire weapons
• Collect battle damage assessments (BDAs)
• Support rear area security
• Provide remote receive capability and liaison to designated units
• Conduct training to prepare for tactical employment and combat operations
Marine Fighter/Attack Squadron (VMFA)
• The VMFA intercepts and destroys enemy aircraft under all weather conditions and attacks and destroys surface targets
• Intercept and destroy enemy aircraft under all weather conditions
• Maintain the capability to attack and destroy surface targets
• Provide escort of friendly aircraft under all weather conditions.
• Maintain the capability to deploy and operate from aircraft carriers and advance bases.
• Conduct day and night CAS under adverse weather conditions.
• Maintain the capability to deploy or conduct extended-range operations by using aerial re-fueling
• Maintain the capability to conduct suppression of enemy air defense (SEAD) operations
• Perform organizational maintenance on assigned aircraft
Marine All Weather Fighter/Attack Squadron (VMFA/AW)
• The VMFA (AW) intercepts and destroys enemy aircraft and surface targets, day or night, under adverse weather conditions
• Conduct day and night CAS, under all weather conditions.
• Conduct day and night DAS, under adverse weather conditions
• Conduct multisensory imagery reconnaissance
• Conduct day and night supporting arms coordination
• Intercept and destroy enemy aircraft
• Conduct battle space illumination and target illumination.
• Conduct armed escort of friendly aircraft
• Operate from aircraft carriers and expeditionary air- fields
• Conduct extended-range operations by using aerial re-fueling.
• Maintain the capability to conduct SEAD operations
• Perform organizational maintenance on assigned aircraft
Marine Attack Squadron (VMA)
• The VMA attacks and destroys surface targets under day and night visual meteorological conditions and provides helicopter escort.
• Conduct CAS.
• Conduct armed reconnaissance, air interdiction, and strikes against enemy installations by using all types of conventional munitions that are compatible with assigned aircraft.
• Conduct air defense operations within the capability of assigned aircraft.
• Maintain the capability to operate during darkness and under instrument conditions.
• Maintain the capability of deployment or extended operations by employing aerial re- fueling.
• Maintain the capability to operate from aboard carriers, other suitable seagoing platforms, expeditionary airfields, and remote tactical landing sites.
• Conduct armed-escort missions in support of helicopter operations
• Perform organizational maintenance on assigned aircraft
Marine Medium Tilt-Rotor Squadron (VMM)
• The VMM provides assault transport of combat troops in the initial assault waves and follow-on stages of amphibious operations and subsequent operations ashore.
• Provide combat assault troop transport as a primary function
• Provide combat assault transport of supplies and equipment as a secondary function.
• Conduct assault support for evacuation operations and other maritime special operations.
• Provide support for mobile FARPs.
• Provide airborne control and coordination for assault support operations.
• Maintain a self-defense capability from ground-to-air and air-to-air threats.
• Maintain the capability to operate from amphibious shipping, other floating bases, and austere shore bases.
• Maintain the capability to operate at night, in adverse weather conditions, and under instrument flight conditions at extended ranges.
• Augment local SAR assets and provide aero medical evacuation of causalities from the field to suitable medical facilities or other aero medical aircraft.
• Perform organizational maintenance on assigned aircraft in all environmental conditions.
Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH)
• The HMH provides assault helicopter transport of heavy weapons, equipment, and supplies during amphibious operations and subsequent operations ashore.
• Provide combat assault transport of heavy weapons, equipment, and supplies as a primary function.
• Provide combat assault transport of troops (exclusive of initial assault wave infantry) as a secondary function.
• Conduct tactical retrieval and recovery operations for downed aircraft, equipment, and personnel.
• Conduct assault support for evacuation operations and other maritime special operations.
• Provide support for mobile forward arming and refueling points (FARPs).
• Augment local SAR and provide aeromedical evacuation of casualties from the field to suitable medical facilities or other aeromedical aircraft.
• Provide airborne control and coordination for assault support operations.
• Maintain a self-defense capability from ground-to-air and air-to-air threats.
• Maintain the capability to operate from amphibious shipping, other floating bases, and austere shore bases, as required.
• Maintain the capability to operate at night, in adverse weather conditions, and under instrument flight conditions at extended ranges.
• Perform organizational maintenance on assigned aircraft in all environmental conditions.
Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM)
• The HMM provides assault transport of combat troops in the initial and follow-on stages of amphibious operations
• Provide combat assault troop transport as a primary function
• Provide combat assault transport of supplies and equipment as a secondary function
• Conduct assault support for evacuation
• Provide support for mobile FARPs
• Provide airborne control for assault support operations
• Maintain a self-defense capability.
• Maintain capability to operate from amphibious shipping.
• Maintain the capability to operate at night, in adverse weather.
• Augment local SAR assets
• Perform organizational maintenance on assigned aircraft in all environmental conditions
Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA)
• The HMLA provides combat utility helicopter support, attack helicopter fire support, and fire support coordination during amphibious operations and subsequent operations ashore
Utility Helicopter Tasks
• Provide an airborne command and control platform for CEs.
• Provide armed escort for assault support operations.
• Provide combat assault transport of troops, supplies, and equipment.
• Provide airborne control for assault support operations.
• Augment local SAR assets
• Conduct combat assault and assault support for evacuation.
• Provide terminal guidance for supporting am1s
• Provide fire support and security for forward and rear area forces.
• Maintain a self-defense capability
Attack Helicopter Tasks
• Provide fire support and security for forward and rear area forces
• Conduct point target/anti-armor operations.
• Conduct anti-helicopter operations.
• Provide armed escort for assault support operations.
• Provide terminal ordnance for supporting arms
• Provide point and limited-area air defense from fixed-wing aircraft.
• Conduct armed and visual reconnaissance.
• Augment local SAR assets.
• Operate from amphibious shipping, other floating bases, and austere shore bases as required.
• Operate at night, in adverse weather conditions, and under instrument flight conditions at extended ranges.
• Perform organizational maintenance on assigned aircraft in all environmental conditions
• Explain the Marine Air Command and Control System (MACCS). [ref. (a) pp. 4-7 - 4-12]
• The MACCS consists of various air command and control agencies that provide the ACE commander with the ability to monitor, supervise, and influence the application of Marine aviation’s six functions.
• The ACE commander uses the MACCS to plan and direct ACE operations and to employ aviation assets in a responsive, timely, and effective manner.
• The MACCS provides facilities to control aircraft and missiles as well as to establish links with joint, multinational, other Services, and civil air command and control systems.
• Another function of the MACCS is to advise the MAGTF commander and JFC on the application and employment of Marine aviation.
• The design of the MACCS allows the ACE commander to conduct centralized planning and optimize the use of limited resources.
• At the same time, the MACCS allows the subordinate commanders of the ACE to execute the plan in a decentralized manner.
• The MACCS provides the capability to conduct airspace command and control and deconflict aviation assets through centralized planning of airspace control procedures.
• It exercises air direction and decentralized execution of the airspace control plan through its subordinate agencies.
What is the function, mission and composition of a Marine Air Control Group (MACG):
• MACG headquarters coordinates all aspects of air command and control and air defense within the MAW. It provides the command and staff functions for the MACG commander when deployed as part of the MAGTF ACE.
• Tasks
• Provide the CE of the MACG or MACG detachment for the MAGTF ACE.
• Plan and coordinate the operations, maintenance, and supply of the MACCS.
• Plan and coordinate the air defense operations of the MAGTF
• Coordinate with appropriate commands to plan for the deployment and employment of the MACG and its separately deployable detachments as the MACCS of an ACE.
• Coordinate with other U.S. Services and allies for planning and conducting MAGTF air operations in joint and multinational force operations.
• Advise the ACE commander on applicable matters pertaining to the employment of agencies comprising the MACCS.
• Perform command and staff functions associated with fulfilling the MACG’s mission.
• Conduct operations while in a nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) and/or EW environment.
• Maintain the capability for deploying independent units.
• Coordinates all aspects of air command and control and air defense within the MAW.
Marine Tactical Air Command Squadron (MTACS) [pp. 3-10 thru 3-14]
• The MTACS provides equipment, maintenance, and operations for the TACC of the ACE as a component of the MAGTF
• Tasks
• Provides the operational command post (CP) for the ACE
• Assist in coordinating air operations
• Assist in planning air operations
• Maintains capability to accomplish TACC functions
• Conducts operations in an NBC and/or EW environment
• Coordinates with other U.S. Services and allies for the conduct of MAGTF air operations in joint and multinational force operations
• Performs command and staff functions associated with fulfilling the MTACS
• Concept of Organization
• The MTACS is organic to the MACG of the MAW.
Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron (MWHS).
• The MWHS provides command, administrative, and supply support for a MAW headquarters and certain elements of the MACG.
• Tasks
• Provide camp facilities and services, including food service, for elements of the Marine wing headquarters and for the Marine tactical air command squadron (MTACS) and Marine wing communications squadron (MWCS) of the MACG.
• Maintain the capability of deploying as an integral unit when augmented with maintenance support personnel.
• Provide detachments for supported units as required
• Provide for internal security of the MAW headquarters
• Concept of Organization
• This organization will normally function as an integral unit. It is structured to operate as a subordinate unit of the MAW to support the units mentioned above.
Marine Air Control Squadron (MACS)
• The MACS provides air surveillance and control of aircraft and surface-to-air weapons for AAW; continuous all-weather radar and non-radar ATC services and airspace management in support of a MAGTF.
• Tasks
• Perform command and staff functions associated with fulfilling the MACS mission.
• Coordinate with appropriate commands to plan for the deployment and employment of the squadron and its separately deployable detachments.
• Provide deployable detachments that are capable of air surveillance, airspace management, and control of aircraft and SAMs for AAW in support of the MAGTF.
• Provide deployable detachments that are capable of providing ATC services at existing or expeditionary airfields and remote area landing sites.
• When reinforced with a TMD detachment, provide SAM fires in assigned zones in defense of vital areas and installations therein against theater missile attack, and be prepared to engage surviving fixed-wing aircraft and helicopter threats.
• Serve as the operational point of contact between the MACCS and national/international ATC agencies.
• Concept of Organization
• The MACS is comprised of a squadron headquarters, a TAOC detachment, and two ATC detachments. One MACS organization includes four TMD
Marine Wing communications Squadron (MWCS)
• The MWCS provides expeditionary communications for the ACE of a MEF, including the phased deployment of task-organized elements thereof.
• Tasks
• Provide for the effective command of subordinate detachments.
• Assist in the systems planning and engineering of ACE communications. Install, operate, and maintain expeditionary communications for command and control of the MEF ACE.
• Provide operational systems control centers, as required, to coordinate communication functions internally and externally to the ACE.
• Provide calibration and repair facilities for all ground-common test measurement diagnostic equipment (TMDE) in the MAW.
• Provide the digital backbone communications support for the ACE CE, FOBs, and MACCS agencies for up to two airfields per detachment.
• Provide tactical automated switching and telephone services for the ACE CE and the TACC.
• Provide electronic message distribution for the ACE CE, primary MACCS agencies, and tenant units.
• Provide external single-channel radio and radio retransmission communications support for ACE operations as required.
• Provide deployed wide area network (WAN) and deployed local area network (LAN) server support for the ACE CE and primary MACCS agencies.
• Provide the support cryptographic site for all ground-common and MACCS-assigned communications security equipment within the ACE.
• Plan and coordinate individual and unit training as required to qualify subordinate detachments for tactical deployment and combat operations.
• Provide maintenance support for ground-common communications equipment in the MAW.
• Concept of Organization
• The MWCS consists of a headquarters element and one or two MWCS detachments.
Marine Air Support Squadron (MASS)
• The MASS provides DASC capabilities for control and coordination of fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft operating in direct support of MAGTF forces.
• Tasks
• Provide operational planning for MAGTF air support operations.
• Receive, coordinate, and process immediate requests for direct air support.
• Provide equipment, facilities, and personnel for the operation of air support elements.
• Conduct air support control as required to meet MAGTF operational requirements.
• Maintain the ability to provide continuous control of direct air support while displacing by echelon.
• Provide personnel and facilities for the simultaneous operation of the DASC and DASC (airborne).
• Concept of Organization
• The MASS is organic to the MACG. When supporting the MAGTF, the MASS is task organized as part of the ACE.
Low Altitude Air Defense (LAAD) Battalion
• The LAAD battalion provides close-in, low-altitude, surface-to-air weapons fires in defense of MAGTF assets defending forward combat areas, maneuver forces, vital areas, installations, and/or units engaged in special/independent operations.
• Tasks
• Provide for the effective command, administrative, communications, supply, and logistic support of subordinate batteries.
• Maintain a primary capability as a highly mobile, vehicle-mounted, and man-portable surface-to-air weapons component of the MAGTF with the ability to rapidly deploy in the assault echelon of an expeditionary operation.
• Provide surface-to-air weapons support for units engaged in special/independent operations.
• Provide for the separate deployment of subordinate batteries and platoons to accommodate special tactical situations and task organizations.
• Plan and coordinate requirements for liaison and combinations with appropriate commands to ensure the most effective integration of LAAD units within the integrated air defense system.
• Provide early warning of hostile air threats to other elements of the air defense system.
• Concept of Organization
• The LAAD battalion is comprised of a battalion headquarters, a headquarters and service (H&S) battery, and two firing batteries. The H&S battery has been divided into an H&S battery (-) and an H&S battery detachment. This organization facilitates the logistical support of separately deployed firing batteries.
What is the function of a Marine Wing Support Squadron (MWSS)?
• Typically, the ACE supports a MEF with one or more MAWs. Support to the MEF may include assets from more than one MAW that are task organized to form a MAW (reinforced).
What is the Aviation Combat Element (ACE) of a Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) and how does it relate to the support/supporting concept of operations?
• Typically, the ACE supports a MEF with one or more MAWs.
• Support to the MEF may include assets from more than one MAW that are task organized to form a MAW (reinforced).
What is the ACE of a Marine Expeditionary Brigade (MEB)?
• The ACE normally supports an SPMAGTF with a task-organized group that consists of a mix of rotary-wing aircraft, short take-off and landing aircraft, a MACG detachment, a fixed-wing MALS detachment, and a rotary-wing MALS detachment.
• Actual squadron composition will depend on mission requirements.
What is the ACE of a Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU)?
• The MEU ACE generally consists of a medium lift helicopter squadron reinforced with several heavy-lift helicopters and AV-8B attack aircraft.
Discuss the three levels of aviation maintenance.
• Maintenance tasks are divided into the number of levels required so common standards can be applied to the many and varied aircraft maintenance activities of the military establishment. They are increments of which all maintenance activities are composed.
• JOINT PUB-1-02 defines the three levels as depot, intermediate, and organizational.
Organizational
• Maintenance which is the responsibility of, and performed by, a using organization on its assigned equipment. Its phases normally consist of inspecting, servicing, lubricating, adjusting, and replacing parts, minor assemblies, and subassemblies.
INTERMEDIATE -LEVEL MAINTENANCE
• Maintenance which is the responsibility of, and performed by, designated maintenance activities for direct support of using organizations. Its phases normally consist of calibration, repair or replacement of damaged or unserviceable parts, components, or assemblies; the emergency manufacture of nonavailable parts; and the provision of technical assistance to using organizations.
DEPOT -LEVEL MAINTENANCE
• Maintenance done on material requiring major rework or a complete rebuild of parts, assemblies, subassemblies, and end items, including manufacture, modification, testing, and reclamation of parts as required. D-level maintenance serves to support lower levels of maintenance by providing technical assistance and performing maintenance beyond the responsibility of O-level and I-level maintenance. D-level maintenance provides stocks of serviceable equipment by using more extensive facilities for repair than are available in lower level maintenance activities.
Discuss the characteristics and employment of the following Marine aircraft:
UH-1
• The UH-1N is a twin-engine, two-seat, single-piloted, single-rotor, utility helicopter. HML/A squadrons use the UH-1N.
• The mission of the UH-1N is to provide utility support for the MAGTF. It can transport a maximum of 13 passengers or provide airborne command and control using the ASC-26 communication package. The aircraft can aid local search and rescue assets and provide aero medical evacuation of casualties. The UH-1N can carry two 7.62mm GAU-17 or M-60 machine guns and a defensive armament system. This system allows the UH-1N to use 2.75- inch rockets, crew-served .50 caliber machine guns, and fixed forward and crew-served 7.62mm machine guns.
CH-46 (Note: CH-46 aircraft are being phased out and will no longer exist in the active inventory by 2015 )
• The CH-46E “Sea Knight helicopter” is a dual-piloted, twin-engine, tandom rotor assault support helicopter. Marine medium helicopter squadrons (HMMs) use the CH-46E.
• The primary mission of the CH-46E is to provide assault transport of troops. The cabin section has provisions for 25 personnel. Normal configuration is for 15 combat-loaded troops. The CH-46 can transport supplies and equipment (internally and externally) and provide medical evacuation for 15 litter patients. The CH-46 can mount two 7.62 M-60 machine guns or two .50 caliber XM-218 machine guns for self-protection.
• The CH-64E has the following features:
• Crash attenuating pilot seats
• Exhaust infrared suppressors
• Crashworthy fuel system
CH-53
CH53D (Sea Stallion)
• Dual piloted, twin-engine, single-rotor assault support helicopter. Marine heavy helicopter squadron (HMHs) uses the CH-53.
• The primary mission of the CH-53 is to provide helicopter transport of supplies and equipment.
• The cabin contains cargo winches, roller conveyors, and tie down fittings. The external cargo hook allows the movement of large or out-sized cargo. The Ch-53 can also transport up to 55 personnel. Normal configuration is 30 combat-loaded troops. The aircraft can carry 24 litters during medical evacuation operations. The CH-53D can mount two 7.62 M-60 machine guns or two .50 XM- 218 machine guns for self-protection.
CH-53E
• Is a growth variant of the CH-53D.
• It is a dual-piloted, single-rotor helicopter with three engines.
• The CH- 53E is the free world’s largest helicopter and can transport up to 16 tons over a mission radius of 50 nautical miles. The CH-53E can lift 93 percent of the Marine division’s equipment. While doubling the lift of the CH-53D, the CH-53E requires only 10 percent more deck space than a CH-53D with tip tanks.
• Mission features include:
• Utility hoist
• Dual hook external capacity
• External auxiliary fuel tanks
• In-flight refueling
• Machine gun armament
EA-6
• The EA-6B is a four-place (one pilot and three electronic countermeasures officers), twin-engine, subsonic electronic warfare aircraft. Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare squadrons (VMAQ) us the EA-6B.
• The EA-6B supports the MAGTF by suppressing enemy electronic activity and by gaining tactical electronic intelligence. The aircraft can carry up to five integrally powered pods for jamming early warning, acquisition, and fire control radars. The aircraft detects, analyzes, and records signals for post mission evaluation.
F/A-18 “Hornet”
• The F/A-18 is a single-place, twin-engine, strike fighter. The F/A-18 began to replace the F-4 in 1983.
• The F/A-18 can intercept enemy aircraft and perform ground attack. It has an internal 20mm M-61 gun and can carry over 17,000 pounds of ordnance.
• The F/A-18D is the two-seat variant of the F/A-18. VMFA (AW) uses the F/A-18D. A FLIR system, NVG compatible cockpit lighting, and digital moving map display enable the F/A-18D aircraft to perform ground attacks at night under the weather. Some F/A-18D aircraft carry the advanced tactical airborne reconnaissance system (ATARS).
AV-8 “Harrier”
• The AV-8B is a single-seat, transonic, vectored-thrust, light attack aircraft.
• Marine attack squadron (VMAs) us the AV-8B.
• The AV-8B has GAU-12 25mm bun system and can carry up to 9,200 pounds of external ordnance.
• Its V/STOL capability provides increased responsiveness to MAGTF commander’s OAS requirements through basing flexibility and high sortie rates. The angle rates bombing system (ARBS) allows accurate first pass attacks and high kill probability using laser spot or TV tracking. The aircraft has an inertial navigation system. Its forward looking infrared (FLIR) system, night vision goggle NVG compatible cockpit t lighting, and moving map display allow ground attacks at night under the weather.
MV-22 “Osprey”
• Primary function: Amphibious assault transport of troops, equipment and supplies from assault ships and land bases.
• Manufacturer: Bell Boeing
• Description: The V-22 Osprey is a multi-engine, dual-piloted, self deployable, medium lift; vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) tilt rotor aircraft designed for combat, combat support, combat service support, and Special Operations missions worldwide. It will replace the Corps’ aged fleet of CH-46E and CH-53D medium lift helicopters.
C-130
• The KC-130 is a four-engine, turboprop, aerial refueler and assault transport aircraft. Marine aerial refueler transport squadrons (VMGRs) use the KC-130.
• The KC-130 provides the MAGTF commander a self-deployable, multi-mission aircraft. The KC-130 can aerial refuel aircraft equipped with refueling probes, and they can ground refuel helicopters and AV-8s at austere landing sites.
• Additional tasks include aerial delivery of troops and cargo, and operation of airborne direct air support center.
• As a tactical transport, the KC- 130 can carry 92 troops, 64 paratroops, 74 litters, or 35,000 pounds of cargo.
AH-1 “Super Cobra”
• The AH-1W is a two-place, tandem-seat, twin-engine helicopter capable of land- or sea-based operations.
• The AH-1W provides fire support and fire support coordination to the landing force during amphibious assaults and subsequent operations ashore.
• The AH-1W distinguished itself with its more powerful T700-GE-401 fully maximized engines and advanced electronic weapons capability.
• The AH-1W can fire TOW, Hellfire, and Sidewinder missiles and can be outfitted with Zuni rocket launchers. The AH-1W is currently being outfitted with a Night Targeting System/Forward Looking Infrared Radar that provides laser range finding/designating and camera capabilities.
UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle)
The USMC currently is using two UAVs.
Pioneer
• The 1st is the Pioneer which was procured starting in 1985 as an interim UAV capability to provide imagery intelligence (IMINT) for tactical commanders on land and at sea.
• In ten years, Pioneer has flown nearly 14,000 flight hours and supported every major U.S. contingency operation to date.
• It flew 300+ combat reconnaissance missions during Persian Gulf operations in 1990-91.
• Since September 1994, it has flown in contingency operations over Bosnia, Haiti and Somalia; most recently it flew in Task Force Eagle and IFOR operations again over Bosnia.
Scan Eagle
• The 2nd is the Scan Eagle is a small, autonomous remote-control airplane with a stabilized camera. It generally flies itself, but we have operators to tell it where to go. The Scan Eagle’s long-endurance capabilities and small size make it the ideal plane for aerial surveillance. It is one of the smallest UAVs to have a stabilized video camera in it. With the engine it has, it can stay in the air, orbiting a certain point for up to 15 plus hours. The small size makes it stealthy. The Scan Eagle is launched by “Insitu’s” patented “SuperWedge” launcher, which is a pneumatic wedge catapult system. Then a 50-foot-high pole called the “Skyhook” retrieves it. Using the (global positioning system) antenna, the aircraft comes in and finds the rope on the ‘Skyhook’ itself.
- The primary mission of Marine Corps aviation is to participate as the air component of the MAGTF in the seizure and defense of advance naval bases and to conduct such land operations as may be essential for the prosecution of a naval campaign.
- A collateral mission is to participate as an integral component of naval aviation in the execution of such other Navy functions as the fleet commanders so direct.
Explain the six functions and sub-functions of Marine Corps Aviation.
• MAGTF aviation tasks are divided into six functional areas that guide the commander in planning aviation allocation and employment. • The six functions of Marine aviation are: 1. Offensive Air Support CAS, DAS 2. Anti-Air Warfare Offensive AAW Air defense Active Air defense Passive Air defense 3. Assault Support Combat assault transport Aerial delivery operations Aerial refueling Air evacuation TRAP Air logistical support Battle space illumination 4. Air Reconnaissance Visual Reconnaissance Multisensory Imagery Reconnaissance Electronic Reconnaissance 5. EW Electronic attack (EA) Electronic protection EW Support 6. Control of Aircraft and Missiles Air Direction Air Control
Offensive Air Support
- OAS is “air operations conducted against enemy installations, facilities, and personnel to directly assist the attainment of MAGTF objectives by the destruction of enemy resources or the isolation of his military force.”
- OAS includes the categories of close air support (CAS) and deep air support (DAS).
CAS- close air support
• CAS is “air action by fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft against hostile targets which are in close proximity to friendly forces and which require detailed integration of each air mission with the fire and movement of those forces.”
DAS- deep air support
• DAS is “air action against enemy targets at such a distance from friendly forces that detailed integration of each mission with fire and movement of friendly forces is not required. Deep air support missions are flown on either side of the fire support coordination line; the lack of a requirement for close coordination with the fire and movement of friendly forces is the qualifying factor.” DAS missions include strike coordination, air interdiction, and armed reconnaissance.
AAW- Antiair Warfare
- AAW is “that action required to destroy or to reduce to an acceptable level the enemy air and missile threat. It includes such measures as the use of interceptors, bombers, antiair-craft guns, surface-to-air and air-to-air missiles, electronic attack, and destruction of the air or missile threat both before and after it is launched. Other measures which are taken to minimize the effects of hostile air action are cover, concealment, dispersion, deception (including electronic), and mobility.” (Joint Pub 1-02) The primary purpose of AAW is to gain and maintain some degree of air superiority.
- AAW includes both offensive and defensive means to accomplish its objective.
Offensive AAW
• constitutes operations conducted against the enemy air or air defense system before it can be launched or assume an attacking role. Offensive AAW operations in or near the objective area consist mainly of air attacks to destroy or neutralize hostile aircraft, airfields, radars, air defense systems, and supporting areas. Offensive AAW includes theater missile defense (TMD) attack operations and suppression of enemy air defense operations.
Air Defense
• includes all defensive measures designed to destroy attacking enemy aircraft or missiles in the earth’s atmosphere or to nullify or reduce the effectiveness of such attack. There are two forms of air defense: active and passive
Active air defense
• is direct defensive action taken to destroy attacking enemy aircraft or missiles or to nullify or reduce the effectiveness of such an attack. Active air defense includes the use of aircraft, air defense weapons, supporting weapons (weapons not typically used in an air defense role), and EW.
Passive air defense
• constitutes all measures, other than active defense, taken to minimize the effects of hostile air action. These include the use of cover, concealment, camouflage, deception, dispersion, electronic protection, and protective construction. Passive air defense is a command responsibility of every unit commander.
Assault Support
• Assault support is “the use of aircraft to provide tactical mobility and logistic support for the MAGTF, the movement of high priority cargo and personnel within the immediate area of operations, in-flight refueling, and the evacuation of personnel and cargo.” (Fleet Marine Force manual (FMFM) 5-30, Assault Support).
• The tasks of assault support fall within the following seven categories:
Combat Assault Aerial Delivery Operations Aerial Refueling Air Evacuation Tactical Recovery of Air Craft and Personnel (TRAP) Air logistical support operations Battlespace Illumination
• EW is “any military action involving the use of electromagnetic and directed energy to control the electromagnetic spectrum or to attack the enemy.” (Joint Pub 1-02)
• The three major subdivisions of EW are electronic attack (EA), electronic protection, and EW sup- port:
Electronic Attack (EA)
• EA is “that division of electronic warfare involving the use of electromagnetic, directed energy, or antiradiation weapons to attack personnel, facilities, or equipment with the intent of degrading, neutralizing, or destroying enemy combat capability.” (Joint Pub 1-02)
Electronic Protection
• Electronic Protection involves “actions taken to protect personnel, facilities, and equipment from any effects of friendly or enemy employment of electronic warfare that degrade, neutralize, or destroy friendly combat capability.”
Electronic Warfare
• Electronic Warfare support involves “actions tasked by, or under direct control of, an operational commander to search for, intercept, identify, and locate sources of intentional and unintentional radiated electromagnetic energy for the purpose of immediate threat recognition.” (Joint Pub 1-02)
Control of Aircraft and Missiles
• The control of aircraft and missiles involves the coordinated employment of facilities, equipment, communications, procedures, and personnel that allows the ACE commander to plan, direct, and control the efforts of the ACE to support accomplishment of the MAGTF’s mission.
Air Direction
• Air direction is the authority to regulate the employment of air resources (including both aircraft and surface-to-air weapons) to maintain a balance between their availability and the priorities assigned for their use. The purpose of air direction is to achieve a balance between the MAGTF’s finite aviation resources and the accomplishment of the ACE’s mission.
Air Control
• Air control is the authority to direct the physical maneuver of aircraft in flight or to direct an aircraft or surface-to-air weapons unit to engage a specific target. Air control includes airspace management and airspace control.
Combat Assault
• Combat Assault provides mobility and logistic support to the MAGTF. It can be used to rapidly deploy forces, bypass obstacles, or redeploy forces to meet the enemy threat, thus allowing for a rapid buildup of combat power at a specific time and location.
Aerial Delivery Operations
• Aerial deliver operations transport equipment and supplies to FOBs or remote areas either by landing at the desired location or through air drop.
Aerial Refueling
• Aerial Refueling allows MAGTF aircraft to conduct flight-ferrying operations, extend time on station, and extend mission range. In addition, aerial refueling aids in the recovery of damaged or low-fuel aircraft by extending their time in the air, when required.
Air Evacuation
• Air evacuation provides transportation of personnel and equipment from FOBs or remote areas by using transport helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft.
Tactical Recovery of Air Craft and Personnel (TRAP)
• TRAP facilitates the recovery of personnel and equipment while preventing additional loss. The TRAP mission is an implied task associated with all MAGTF operations. Specially briefed aircrews are assigned to perform TRAP missions. TRAP missions are conducted when the tactical situation prevents the use of traditional search and reserve techniques. TRAP is normally conducted only when survivors and their locations are confirmed.
Air logistical support operations
• Air logistical support operations are conducted by using fixed-wing aircraft to provide assault support of MAGTF forces on the ground in much the same manner as helicopters. Air logistical support delivers troops, equipment, and supplies to areas beyond helicopter range and lift capability or when surface transportation is slow or unavailable.
Battlespace Illumination
• Battle space illumination can be provided by both fixed-and rotary-wing aircraft and is used to provide light in the battle space area.
Air Reconnaissance
• Air reconnaissance is “the acquisition of intelligence information by employing visual observation and/or sensors in air vehicles.”
Visual Reconnaissance
• Any airborne platform may conduct visual aerial reconnaissance operations. An observer or pilot can visually search a route, point, or area. Visual aerial reconnaissance is frequently related to offensive action such as artillery, naval surface fires (NSF), or air support.
Multisensor Imagery Reconnaissance
• Multisensor imagery reconnaissance includes photographic, side-looking airborne radar, and infrared reconnaissance techniques. When the imagery is processed, it provides intelligence information to all interested commands.
Electronic Reconnaissance
• EW-configured aircraft provide the means to detect, identify, evaluate, and locate foreign electromagnetic radiation that is emanating from other-than nuclear detonations or radioactive sources, thereby providing up-to-date electronic order of battle and technical intelligence.
Electronic Warfare (EW)
• EW is “any military action involving the use of electromagnetic and directed energy to control the electromagnetic spectrum or to attack the enemy.” (Joint Pub 1-02)
• The three major subdivisions of EW are electronic attack (EA), electronic protection, and EW sup- port:
Electronic Attack (EA)
• EA is “that division of electronic warfare involving the use of electromagnetic, directed energy, or antiradiation weapons to attack personnel, facilities, or equipment with the intent of degrading, neutralizing, or destroying enemy combat capability.” (Joint Pub 1-02)
Electronic Protection
• Electronic Protection involves “actions taken to protect personnel, facilities, and equipment from any effects of friendly or enemy employment of electronic warfare that degrade, neutralize, or destroy friendly combat capability.”
Electronic Warfare
• Electronic Warfare support involves “actions tasked by, or under direct control of, an operational commander to search for, intercept, identify, and locate sources of intentional and unintentional radiated electromagnetic energy for the purpose of immediate threat recognition.” (Joint Pub 1-02)
Control of Aircraft and Missiles
• Air control is the authority to direct the physical maneuver of aircraft in flight or to direct an aircraft or surface-to-air weapons unit to engage a specific target. Air control includes airspace management and airspace control.
• The control of aircraft and missiles involves the coordinated employment of facilities, equipment, communications, procedures, and personnel that allows the ACE commander to plan, direct, and control the efforts of the ACE to support accomplishment of the MAGTF’s mission.
Air Direction
• Air direction is the authority to regulate the employment of air resources (including both aircraft and surface-to-air weapons) to maintain a balance between their availability and the priorities assigned for their use. The purpose of air direction is to achieve a balance between the MAGTF’s finite aviation resources and the accomplishment of the ACE’s mission.
Air Control
• Air control is the authority to direct the physical maneuver of aircraft in flight or to direct an aircraft or surface-to-air weapons unit to engage a specific target. Air control includes airspace management and airspace control.
Combat Assaulting
• Combat Assault provides mobility and logistic support to the MAGTF. It can be used to rapidly deploy forces, bypass obstacles, or redeploy forces to meet the enemy threat, thus allowing for a rapid buildup of combat power at a specific time and location.
Aerial Delivery Operations
Air Reconnaissance
• Air reconnaissance is “the acquisition of intelligence information by employing visual observation and/or sensors in air vehicles.”
Visual Reconnaissance
• Any airborne platform may conduct visual aerial reconnaissance operations. An observer or pilot can visually search a route, point, or area. Visual aerial reconnaissance is frequently related to offensive action such as artillery, naval surface fires (NSF), or air support.
Multisensor Imagery Reconnaissance
• Multisensor imagery reconnaissance includes photographic, side-looking airborne radar, and infrared reconnaissance techniques. When the imagery is processed, it provides intelligence information to all interested commands.
Electronic Reconnaissance
• EW-configured aircraft provide the means to detect, identify, evaluate, and locate foreign electromagnetic radiation that is emanating from other-than nuclear detonations or radioactive sources, thereby providing up-to-date electronic order of battle and technical intelligence.
Electronic Warfare (EW)
• EW is “any military action involving the use of electromagnetic and directed energy to control the electromagnetic spectrum or to attack the enemy.” (Joint Pub 1-02)
• The three major subdivisions of EW are electronic attack (EA), electronic protection, and EW sup- port:
Electronic Attack (EA)
• EA is “that division of electronic warfare involving the use of electromagnetic, directed energy, or antiradiation weapons to attack personnel, facilities, or equipment with the intent of degrading, neutralizing, or destroying enemy combat capability.” (Joint Pub 1-02)
Electronic Protection
• Electronic Protection involves “actions taken to protect personnel, facilities, and equipment from any effects of friendly or enemy employment of electronic warfare that degrade, neutralize, or destroy friendly combat capability.”
Electronic Warfare
• Electronic Warfare support involves “actions tasked by, or under direct control of, an operational commander to search for, intercept, identify, and locate sources of intentional and unintentional radiated electromagnetic energy for the purpose of immediate threat recognition.” (Joint Pub 1-02)
Control of Aircraft and Missiles
• The control of aircraft and missiles involves the coordinated employment of facilities, equipment, communications, procedures, and personnel that allows the ACE commander to plan, direct, and control the efforts of the ACE to support accomplishment of the MAGTF’s mission.
Air Direction
• Air direction is the authority to regulate the employment of air resources (including both aircraft and surface-to-air weapons) to maintain a balance between their availability and the priorities assigned for their use. The purpose of air direction is to achieve a balance between the MAGTF’s finite aviation resources and the accomplishment of the ACE’s mission.
• Aerial deliver operations transport equipment and supplies to FOBs or remote areas either by landing at the desired location or through air drop.
Aerial Refueling
• Aerial Refueling allows MAGTF aircraft to conduct flight-ferrying operations, extend time on station, and extend mission range. In addition, aerial refueling aids in the recovery of damaged or low-fuel aircraft by extending their time in the a
Air Evacuation
• Air evacuation provides transportation of personnel and equipment from FOBs or remote areas by using transport helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft.
