What does Close Air Support entail?

Close Air Support (CAS) refers specifically to air actions that are closely coordinated with ground forces engaging in combat. This type of support is designed to provide immediate air assistance to troops on the ground, ensuring that air operations are integrated directly with the operational plans of ground forces. The focus of CAS is on precision targeting to minimize the risk of collateral damage and to maximize the effectiveness of the air support offered in dynamic and often fluid combat situations.

The necessity of detailed integration is rooted in the need for effective communication and coordination between air and ground units to respond to immediate battlefield needs. This integration often involves sharing intelligence, using established communication protocols, and deploying tactics that ensure the air support is timely and relevant to the ground forces' movements and objectives.

Other choices, such as targeting long-range objectives, training for aerial combat, or coordinating humanitarian air travel, do not capture the essence of CAS, which is fundamentally about supporting ground troops through direct air engagement that requires close coordination and real-time communication. Therefore, the attribute of detailed integration with ground forces is what distinctly defines Close Air Support in military operations.