ECAS, or Emergency Close Air Support, was the focus of our training yesterday. The briefing was unclassified, but the discussion was secret-level information. Obviously, I will not divulge sensitive information, but suffice it to say that the F16 pilots that were brought in to teach ground-to-pilot communications were true professionals and we are much better for it.
Perhaps nothing raises the morale of the Infantryman more than knowing F16s are on station and can be on location dropping bombs and conducting strafing runs within minutes of calling for their support. In many situations, this can mean the difference between having a bad day and having a VERY bad day.
The focus of our training is on the EMERGENCY part of ECAS. Bad day, bad dudes and the need for some close air support right now to destroy them or at the very least cause them to break contact and withdraw. As our Commander said, this will most likely save someone’s life in the next 12 months.
The next phase of our training will include a simulator and radio communications with actual pilots. Will be back with more later.
