text: _________________________________________________________________________________Chapter 8
  Rotary-Wing
  8-19. The OPFOR can use less centralized procedures for the allocation of its
  helicopter assets, especially the combat helicopter in the DAS role. However,
  if the number of assets in theater allows and the mission dictates, it may de-
  centralize control over an aviation unit. It can do this in two ways. The first
  is a constituent subordination of an aviation unit, or the higher headquarters
  can establish a dedicated or supporting relationship for a specified period of time.
  AIRSPACE OPERATIONS SUBSECTION
  8-20. The chief of airspace operations (CAO) at theater, OSC, and tactical
  group levels is the primary person in the staff responsible for the coordina-
  tion of all airspace users. He, along with his staff, make up the airspace
  operations subsection (AOS). They work directly for the operations officer in
  the planning of future operations and the execution of current operations. At
  theater level, this AOS generally consists of—
  • An air controller team (Air Force).
  • An intelligence team.
  • A communications team.
  • Liaison teams from subordinate units requiring airspace deconfliction.
  8-21. At OSC level and below, the AOS is sized according to needs, but per-
  forms the same functions. Some functions of this staff are to—
  • Recommend the employment of air assets.
  • Deconflict airspace for all users.
  • Plan the effective suppression of enemy air defense.
  • Transmit air support requests.
  • Maintain communications with aircraft in the area of responsibility.
  • Provide the commander with all air reconnaissance information.
  8-22. The AOS at every level is manned and equipped to provide 24-hour
  operations. Additionally, the AOS provides representation to the IFC CP and
  to the forward CP when the latter is operational.
  PLANNING AND PREPARATION
  8-23. The theater air army and ground forces have an integrated C2 struc-
  ture. This ensures close and continuous coordination in joint operations. The
  CAO evaluates the situation based on the theater commander’s guidance. He
  then plans the air portion of an operation and recommends the proper em-
  ployment of air assets. The same process is being performed simultaneously
  at the OSC-level AOS.
  8-24. In addition to the air missions planned at theater level, the theater
  staff allocates assets to integrate into the subordinate ground commander’s
  plan. To achieve a coordinated operation plan, the theater air army sends
  personnel and communications equipment to ground force units at battalion
  level and above. These personnel forward requests for air assets through the
  chain of command to the theater staff. The theater CAO then screens the