joint terminal attack controller

Definition/Scope: (AF) A Joint terminal attack controller (JTAC) directs the action of combat aircraft engaged in Close Air Support (CAS) and other offensive air operations. A qualified and current JTAC will be recognized across DoD as capable and authorized to perform terminal attack control. (PM STS) The US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) JTAC Trainer is an interim solution to provide realistic fire mission and TAC control training in portable classroom and immersive environments. It uses the same core asset software, and it is built from a modular perspective, leveraging the same hardware for all configurations. Based on the Joint Fires Product Line (JFPL), which provides a common software architecture with other fires trainers, the JTAC Trainer is being developed and fielded using a three phased approach: Phase 1 (already fielded) provided the base laptop configuration with head-mounted displays and multi-station functionality. Phase 2 (already fielded) integrated the Joint Semi-Automated Forces (JSAF) into the trainer, provided a direct view projection system, and provided dual-monitor Instructor and Student Stations. Phase 3 will provide Simulated Military Equipment (SME), a six degree of freedom (six-DOF) tracker, and a projection dome, visual, training environment. OLD VERSION A qualified (certified) Service member who, from a forward position, directs the action of combat aircraft engaged in close air support and other offensive air operations. A qualified and current joint terminal attack controller will be recognized across the Department of Defense as capable and authorized to perform terminal attack control.

Acronym:

JTAC

Broader Terms:

ANGLICO
Marine Corps JTAC School
terminal attack controller

Narrower Terms:

CAS
Close Air Support
Forward Air Controller
Joint Close Air Support
Joint Fires Observer

Related Terms:

Air Ground Operations School
collateral damage estimate
enlisted terminal attack controller
Expeditionary Warfare Training Group Atlantic
Expeditionary Warfare Training Group Pacific
Joint Fires Observer
Naval Air Station Fallon
Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center
Naval Surface Fire Support
Nellis Air Force Base