Which branch of service employs its attack rotary wing aviation primarily as a CAS platform?

The Marine Corps primarily employs its attack rotary wing aviation as a Close Air Support (CAS) platform, focusing on supporting ground troops in close proximity to the battlefield. This approach is integral to the Marine Corps' mission of combining ground and air forces to achieve operational goals quickly and efficiently.

The Marine Corps uses helicopters such as the AH-1Z Viper and the UH-1Y Venom specifically for their versatility in providing direct support to ground units while maintaining a rapid response capability. By integrating these aircraft into their combined arms strategy, the Marine Corps ensures that they can effectively engage enemy forces and provide necessary support during combat operations.

While other branches, such as the Army and Navy, use rotary-wing aircraft in various roles, their focus is not exclusively on CAS. The Army does have an attack aviation component, but its operational context is often broader, encompassing both support and offensive maneuvers across various terrains. The Navy primarily utilizes its rotary-wing assets for different missions, including anti-submarine warfare and logistics, rather than concentrating solely on close air support. The Air Force's focus with its aircraft is more directed towards strategic bombers and fighters, using its helicopters mainly for personnel transport and search-and-rescue missions.

Thus, the Marine Corps’ distinct focus