Evaluation of U.S. and Coalition Efforts to Train, Advise, Assist, and Equip Afghan Tactical Air Coordinators, Air Liaison Officers, and Afghan Air Targeting Officers

Book excerpt: We determined whether U.S. and coalition efforts to train, advise, assist, and equip Afghan tactical air coordinators (ATACs), air liaison officers, and Afghan air targeting officers met U.S. and Coalition objectives in support of developing Afghan air-to-ground integration (AGI). The inability to coordinate airdrop operations increases the risk that ANDSF unites operating in areas without airfields or helicopter landing zones will not receive critical supplies. Additionally, the lack of a detailed training curriculum for air liaison officers could result in an increase in unsuccessful air-to-ground missions, as well as an increased risk of civilian casualties and fratricide. Further, without tracking operational effectiveness data, neither TAAC-Air nor NSOCC-A advisors could measure progress or adjust training and advising efforts to meet operational objectives.