TACPs complete allied training in France

CORSICA, France — Members of Tactical Air Control Party completed allied training here, April 2.

The regional air exercise over the island of Corsica consisted of multinational forces performing close air support missions simulating operations and using the same rules of engagement as used in Afghanistan.

The purpose was to prepare crews for Afghan operations while focusing on CAS missions in mountainous environments.

“The training is important because it gives our multi-national counterparts the training needed for deployments in a life-like, controlled environment,” said Capt. Michael Hogan, 4th Air Support Operations Group. “And being so centrally located to both the water and the mountains allows us to train in all geographic terrains, which has been extremely productive.”

The training included communications between American TACPs and the international pilots. The U.S. trained alongside other service members from Italy, the U.K., Belgium, Germany, France, Spain, the Netherlands and other countries.

“Participants are going to Afghanistan all the time; this exercise is a great way for everyone to share knowledge with each other,” Hogan said. “This is the same type of intercommunication with different agencies used downrange.”

During the training there were multiple exercises where the TACP would call in a simulated air attack. They communicated with pilots to find the designated location miles away. The exercise proved to be successful as all training objectives were met.

“Some great lessons have been learned here,” said Lt. Col. Mike McManus, 4th Air
Support Operations deputy commander. “We’ve been given a great opportunity to work with our coalition counterparts, all getting prepared for our ongoing fight in Afghanistan.”