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ERDC/CRREL TR-02-13
provides the commander with near-real-time intelligence throughout his
battle space with its attack and cavalry aircraft and special electronic
mission aircraft (SEMA). With the OH-58D Kiowa Warrior and AH-64
Apache, a single combat system can find, fix, and observe or destroy
enemy assets across the depth of the battlefield. [16.b.(6)]
By placing combat aviation forces in the early entry phase of force
projection, the ground commander has a force that can provide recon-
naissance, security, and command and control over great ranges, in
depth, at night; and increases his security capability during the critical
phase of force buildup. [18.c.]
Aviation combat service support is the assistance provided by
aviation forces to sustain combat forces. One aviation brigade can restore
a mechanized battalion task force worth of combat power to a division
each day through the expeditious movement of critical repair parts. Army
aviation provides air movement of personnel, equipment, and supplies;
and performs aeromedical evacuation and aviation maintenance. [25]
Casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) can be performed by any Army
aviation utility aircraft. MEDEVAC is the process of moving patients
while providing them enroute care; most aviation units are not equipped
or staffed to perform MEDEVAC. [25.b.]
In the future battle space, the Longbow Apache and Comanche
helicopters will provide commanders with real-time intelligence and
situational awareness. Their range and coverage will be extended by the
use of UAVs that are digitally cued by Army airborne command and
control system (A2C2S) UH-60 Black Hawks. The Comanche and
Longbow Apache, the UAVs and the A2C2S UH-60 jointly become the
command, control, communications, and intelligence (C3I) key
facilitator for the future battlefield, helping to establish information
dominance. [Future Doctrine]
Army aviation will rapidly project the force and build combat power
in an immature theater. It then becomes the principal means to protect the
forces on the ground as they become established. [Future Doctrine]
Army aviation will conduct armed reconnaissance and security
missions to confirm the enemy's intentions, disrupt his tempo, deny his
freedom of action, and get into his decision cycle. The Comanche and
Longbow Apache will maneuver throughout the depth of the battle space
to deliver precision fires with devastating lethality. [Future Doctrine]
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