Air Force Doctrine Document 2-1.1

fense systems the flexibility to operate beyond the current constraints of
procedural control measures.
❇ Fighter Aircraft. When the CRC or AWACS detects a hostile, potential
hostile, or unknown target, they can assign or commit fighter aircraft
to intercept the target. When possible, aircraft remain under the close
control of the initiating control agency and are continuously directed until
the pilot confirms visual or radar contact. If required, this control may be
transferred to adjacent sectors of responsibility. Intercept control can
be transferred to the pilot when the aircraft is in positive contact with
the target or when the environment precludes positive direction by
the controlling agency. In the latter situation, alternative procedures
such as a broadcast “air picture” of enemy activity or autonomous action
by the aircrew may be required.
❇ Armed Helicopters. Armed helicopters conduct DCA operations when
required. The Army retains OPCON of armed helicopters on DCA missions,
while the AADC exercises TACON and/or a support relationship
over the helicopters when conducting DCA operations.
❇ Surface-to-Air Weapons. Surface-to-air weapons effectiveness requires a
highly reliable centralized linkup with air operations and an adequate identification
process. This precludes engagement of friendly aircraft and
unnecessary expenditure of valuable resources. Weapons control measures
(weapons free, weapons tight, and weapons hold) and ROE are
used to control surface-to-air engagements. Therefore, all available surface-to-air
defense assets in the theater of operations are incorporated into
the overall DCA plan and are subject to the integrated procedures and weapons
control measures imposed by the AADC. The point-defense nature of
short-range air defense (SHORAD) weapons and units are difficult to
Short-range air defense weapon systems: Avenger, left, and
Stinger, right.
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