Fort Chaffee Maneuver Training Center, AR – Joint Fires Observers (JFOs) from across the 4th Security Force Assistance Brigade (SFAB) teamed up with Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs) from the 13th Air Support Operations Squadron (ASOS) for a week of Close Air Support (CAS) training, held from August 25-30, 2024. The exercise, which featured live aircraft and ordnance, aimed to refresh currency and hone the critical skills of JFOs and JTACs.
The training was facilitated by Blue Air Training, which provided over 40 hours with the A-90 aircraft, armed with BDU-33 training bombs and 7.62mm guns. The event was divided into two primary segments: dry CAS scenarios in a Military Operations Area (MOA) in Waldren, AR, and live ordnance CAS exercises at Razorback Range, AR.
In the mornings, JTACs and JFOs operated in the MOA, simulating real-world conditions by conducting CAS missions in an urban environment. The scenario tested their ability to operate in a dynamic setting, execute the ground force commander’s intent, and deliver precise effects on targets amid civilian presence. In the afternoons, the training shifted to Razorback Range, where controllers coordinated with ground force commanders and fire direction centers (FDCs) to synchronize indirect fire (IDF) and CAS to mass effects on enemy forces.
“4SFAB takes cross-training to the next level. We have JFO-qualified Advisors from diverse backgrounds, including 91B, 12B, 11B, 11C, 11Z, and of course 13F. These advisors will go back to the line with skills that are increasingly hard to come by–incredible force multipliers,” Capt. Kyle Hagerty said.
JFOs focused on key tasks such as passing targeting data, correlating targets, and coordinating with aircraft during daytime and nighttime operations. Additionally, the exercise replicated artillery variables, forcing JTACs to synchronize CAS with IDF for simultaneous effects on enemy positions.
Two 4th SFAB Captains, Kyle Hagerty (2nd Battalion) and Trey Wildermuth (1st Battalion), served as ground force commanders (GFCs), adding another layer of complexity by briefing participants on maneuver plans, priorities, and intent.
“To have the opportunity to conduct Live-Joint operations in a conducive training environment that integrates both Air to Surface and Surface to Surface engagements, maneuver objectives, meeting not only the JTACs Direct Learning Objectives but also Joint Fires Observer currency requirements is what we strive for. This type of training creates an experience that can only be achieved by throwing Air Force Joint Terminal Attack Controls (JTAC), Joint Fires Observers (JFO), and Infantry ground force commanders (GFC) into a melting pot. These players provided more realism, expertise, and a level of accuracy that can’t be executed in a Simulator or Mission Training Complex,” SFC Joseph Anderson stated about the exercise.
The rigorous training week ensured that the JFOs and JTACs left Fort Chaffee with sharpened skills and readiness for future operations.
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