What is the authority to control maneuver and grant weapons release clearance to attacking aircraft?

The authority to control maneuver and grant weapons release clearance to attacking aircraft is known as Terminal Attack Control (TAC). This role is critical in coordinating air support within the battlefield, ensuring that airstrikes are effective while minimizing the risk to friendly forces and non-combatants.

Terminal Attack Control involves directing the aircraft during its attack run, which includes elements such as providing target location, identifying the appropriate ordnance to use, and explicitly granting clearance to release weapons. This oversight is essential for safe and effective close air support missions. The person designated as the terminal attack controller acts as a vital link between the forces on the ground and the aircraft above, maintaining situational awareness of both air and ground operations.

Other roles mentioned, while related to air support, do not encompass the same level of control or authority over attacking aircraft. Close Air Support (CAS) refers to the broader concept of air support delivered to troops in close proximity to the frontline but does not specify the authority to grant weapons release. Close Combat Attack (CCA) involves direct attack in close combat situations, generally focusing on operations rather than the command authority aspect. Tactical Risk Assessment (TRA) is a process used to evaluate the risks associated with military operations, but it does not pertain directly to