Do Army Attack Aviation or AC-130 engagements necessitate terminal attack control?

Army Attack Aviation and AC-130 engagements do not inherently require terminal attack control as part of their operational procedures. This is primarily because these platforms utilize direct fire capabilities and are often controlled by their own onboard personnel who have the training and authority to execute engagements without external terminal attack control.

Terminal attack control is more commonly associated with close air support (CAS) missions where coordinated strikes are necessary, and a detailed understanding of the tactical situation is essential to manage the risks of friendly fire and to ensure precision targeting. In contrast, the operational dynamics of Army Attack Aviation and AC-130 missions often allow for a more autonomous execution of their firepower, relying on internal systems and judgements.

In cases where detailed coordination is not necessary, the requirement for a terminal attack controller is diminished. This means that while there may be situations when having terminal attack control could enhance safety and precision, it is not a universal necessity for all engagements involving these platforms.