Which statement correctly defines the three types of control used in close air support?

• A. Type 1: JTAC visually acquires aircraft and target for each attack; Type 2: another asset must visually acquire the target and control individual attacks; Type 3: same as Type 2 but allows multiple attacks within a single engagement.
• B. Type 1: Requires no visual contact; Type 2: JTAC must visually acquire; Type 3: JTAC has full control.
• C. Type 1: JTAC uses data link only; Type 2: pilot instruments; Type 3: Independent strike.
• D. Type 1: Targeted with air strike; Type 2: Strikes occur in sequence; Type 3: Strikes occur simultaneously.

Answer: (A)

In close air support, control types define who has visual contact and how many attacks can be directed in one engagement. Type 1 means the JTAC visually sees both the attacking aircraft and the target for each individual attack, giving precise, on-demand terminal guidance and deconfliction for every strike. Type 2 occurs when another asset must visually acquire the target and then control each individual attack, handing the target guidance to the attacker while the JTAC may not see both sides. Type 3 follows the same arrangement as Type 2 but extends it to allow multiple attacks within a single engagement, maintained by the same controlling asset, enabling a rapid sequence of strikes on the target area without reestablishing contact for every shot. The other options misstate who must have visual contact or how many attacks can be issued, which is why they don’t fit the established definitions.