Army Tactical Missile System and Fixed-Wing Aircraft Capabilities in the Joint Time-Sensitive Targeting Process

Joint publications list fixed-wing aircraft and Army tactical missile system (ATACMS) as the two preferred weapon systems for engaging time-sensitive targets (TSTs), but do not give specific considerations. This thesis comprehensively lists the capabilities and limitations of ATACMS, guided multiple-launch rocket system (GMLRS) Unitary, and fixed-wing aircraft in the six phases of the F2T2EA process: find, fix, track, target, engage, and assess. The Target Phase assessment includes deconfliction, effectiveness, responsiveness, range, accuracy, threat, and risk of employment factors. TST operations from the major combat operations of Operation Iraqi Freedom give a historical account of the performance of both weapon systems. A capabilities analysis of fixed-wing aircraft and Army rockets and missiles provides the foundation for an attack guidance matrix that helps TST planners choose the best weapon system for a given tactical scenario. Fixed-wing aircraft employing joint direct attack munition (JDAM), laser-guided bombs (LGBs) and cannon, can engage a much wider variety of targets and their sensors are useful in the other five phases. ATACMS and GMLRS Unitary are more survivable and have the potential to be more responsive. A joint TST process needs both weapon systems, but TST planners should expect fixed-wing aircraft to engage the majority of TSTs.

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