E20 How Air Force TACPs Shaped the Global War on Terror with Ethan Brown

At the Water's Edge

summary

In this conversation, Ethan Brown discusses the evolution of close air support (CAS) and the critical role of Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs) and Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) members during the Global War on Terror. He highlights the importance of air-ground integration, the lessons learned from past operations, and the future challenges faced by the TACP community in an era of great power competition. The discussion emphasizes the trust dynamic between ground forces and JTACs, the technological advancements in air power, and the need for continued prioritization of close air support capabilities within the Air Force.
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takeaways

• The Global War on Terror fundamentally changed air-ground integration.
• JTACs played a crucial role in close air support operations.
• The TACP community is often overlooked despite their importance.
• Close air support requires detailed planning and situational awareness.
• Trust between ground forces and JTACs is essential for mission success.
• Technological advancements have significantly impacted air power capabilities.
• Lessons learned from past incidents shape current practices in close air support.
• The future of the TACP community is uncertain within the Air Force.
• Close air support is not just about calling in airstrikes; it's about command and control.
• The evolution of warfare necessitates a reevaluation of JTAC roles.

Sound Bites

• "This was the CAS War."
• "The most dangerous thing we do is call in close air support."
• "The buck stops with the ground force commander."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to TacP and Close Air Support

04:43
Understanding Close Air Support

08:04
The Role of JTACs in Modern Warfare

10:57
The Importance of TacP Training and Knowledge

13:42
Challenges and Risks in Close Air Support

16:39
Lessons Learned from Historical Incidents

19:47
The Dynamics of Trust in Air-Ground Integration

35:27
Building Trust in Combat Operations

43:38
The Evolution of Close Air Support

46:51
Real-Life Examples of Close Air Support

52:33
The Future of JTACs in Modern Warfare

01:02:34
The Air Force's Commitment to Close Air Support

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