This LiveLeak video is an outstanding example on the importance of our rotary wing assets, particularly in asymmetric conflicts. It illustrates the challenges faced by forces as they attempt to coordinate engagements. As the video chronicles, ground forces with visibility of insurgents, unavailable to the Apache pilots, attempt to identify them providing cardinal references, or illuminating the targets using a laser designator.
The Joint Tactical Radio initiative addresses this need by allowing ground forces, aerial forces and command and control to share live voice and data feeds, concurrently, using common wave forms and forming ad hoc networks, with in-area assets, that enable all parties to communicate and see what each sees. The ability to achieve this level of coordination is essential in mitigating combat risks and improve effectiveness.
FOG HORN 