Who controls aviation assets when friendly forces are in close enemy contact?

• A. Air Mission Commander
• B. Joint Operations Commander
• C. Air Support Coordinator
• D. Ground Maneuver Commander

Answer: (D)

When friendly forces are in close enemy contact, the one directing air power is the Ground Maneuver Commander. This commander has the clearest, real-time view of the ground situation and must synchronize air support with the immediate maneuver— prioritizing troops in contact, selecting targets that support the ground scheme, and deconflicting with friendly forces. While the Air Mission Commander oversees overall air operations and the Air Support Coordinator handles coordination, the ground commander retains the decision authority to employ aviation assets to protect troops and maintain the tempo of the fight. Higher-level commands operate above this tactical level, so they don’t manage the on-the-spot employment of air power in a close-quarters scenario.