JTAC - Calling in the Air Strikes

A Joint terminal attack controller (JTAC) is the term used in the United States Armed Forces for a qualified military service member who, from a forward position, directs the action of combat aircraft engaged in close air support and other offensive air operations. The term used in other countries, previously in the US and in the relevant NATO standard is Forward Air Controller. The term became effective in the US on 3 September 2003 with the publishing of Joint Publication (JP) 3-09.3 Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTP) for Close Air Support.