This monograph is a qualitative look at the doctrinal differences between the command and control processes of close air support and close combat attack and whether or not those two processes can be combined to create a streamlined process. To get to an answer this monograph looks at how the Army and Air Force deliver fires within close proximity to troops from aircraft and what background historical and cultural factors shape current command and control processes. Historical context paints a complex picture of what major conflicts shaped the operating environment of the services and where differences stem from. Organizational and national culture derived from the history of and between the two services adds clarity to why the distinct command and control processes are separate. The synthesis of the history and culture provide insight into why the services manage the process differently.

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.)