This study is an examination of how current close air support doctrine, when opposed by Soviet/Warsaw Pact radioelectronic combat capabilities, impacts the U.S. Air Force's ability to closely support the ground commander in Central Europe. Addressed are the current system for close air support, system-induced problems, enemy-induced problems, and several non-doctrinal recommendations for solutions to these problems. Recommendations developed include a change in command status of USAF close air support forces, expansion and modernization of our non-radio communications, and formation of an artillery/Combat Electronic Warfare and Intelligence team to counter the Soviet radioelectronic combat forces.

ADA 094002 Approved for public release; Distribution is unlimited. The opinions and conclusions expressed herein are those of the student-authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College or any other governmental agency. (References to these studies should include the foregoing statement.)