JP 3-01 Countering Air and Missile Threats - Defense Innovation ...

Chapter II
atmospheric) BM engagements. Currently, upper-tier engagements of BMs may be executed
by Aegis and the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system, and
coordination/deconfliction will normally be accomplished by preplanned tactics, techniques,
and procedures. The AAMDC ADAFCO maintains communications with the brigade (BDE)
ADAFCOs at the various regional/sector AD commands to share situational awareness. To
accomplish the mission, the AAMDC ADAFCO requires reliable voice and data
communications with the Aegis controlling authority, the THAAD battery tactical
control officer, and the BDE ADAFCOs. The AAMDC ADAFCO requires a joint air
picture shared with the SADO. Note: For homeland BMD, CDRUSNORTHCOM employs
the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) for exo-atmospheric engagements of BMs.
(2) BDE ADAFCO. The BDE ADAFCO is responsible for lower-tier engagements
(i.e., endo-atmospheric) within a particular region or sector. Lower-tier engagements include
terminal phase engagements of BMs, ASMs, and air breathing threats (aircraft and CM).
The BDE ADAFCOs are normally located with the RADCs/SADCs, and specifically with
their mission crew commanders or senior weapons directors. The BDE ADAFCOs are the
Army link between Patriot units and the joint controlling agency (e.g., RADC/SADC). The
BDE ADAFCO issues all fire control orders to their subordinate units. The BDE ADAFCO
requires voice and data communications with the tactical directors at the battalion’s
information coordination central and a joint air picture feed from the RADC/SADC or
the commander with engagement authority. Due to the requirement to colocate with a
RADC/SADC, BDE ADAFCOs are usually located with a US Air Force CRC, US Navy
Aegis, Marine Corps TAOC, or, in very specific circumstances, a US Air Force AWACS.
To ensure error free clearing of fires, the ADAFCO should be provided a dedicated position
with display of the CTP and supporting voice communications.
9. Airspace Control Authority
a. The JFC designates an ACA who has overall responsibility for establishing and
operating the ACS. The ACA also develops policies and procedures for airspace control that
are incorporated into an ACP and promulgated throughout the theater/JOA. A key
responsibility of the ACA is to provide the flexibility needed within the ACS to meet
contingency situations that necessitate rapid employment of forces.
b. The ACA coordinates use of airspace through the ACP, including integration with the
HN ACS, and synchronizes/deconflicts all user requirements using the airspace control order
(ACO). The ACA must be able to rapidly implement ACMs in the dynamic counterair
environment to enhance freedom of action of components while preventing fratricide. The
ACP is implemented by the ACO, and all component forces that affect joint air operations
are subject to the ACO. However, this control of airspace by the ACA does not imply any
type of command authority (OPCON or TACON) over any air asset.
c. The ACA responsibilities for counterair operations include, but are not limited to:
(1) Link the ACP to the AADP when designating volumes of airspace.
(2) Develop ACMs that support and enhance operations.
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