Radio Operator
Tier I Communications Role
The RTO is a Squad, Platoon or Company level role that is sometimes utilised by unit commanders in situations whereby the actual commander is required to focus on execution of the mission and therefore transfers partial or full aspects of his chain-of-command communications responsibilities to a dedicated person called the RTO. RTOs are experts in radio communication procedures, communicating with support assets, aircraft and higher headquarters over long range.Explore >>
Forward Observer
Tier II Communications Role
The Forward Observer or "FO" is a player who is tasked with coordinating artillery support for the platoon. They are expected to be knowledgeable in all things artillery, from the types of rounds to use, how to call for fire, how to adjust fire, and everything in between.
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Forward Air Controller
Tier III Communications Role
The JTAC or Forward Air Controller ("FAC") is a player who is tasked with coordinating air elements in the support of ground forces and frequently is assigned to the company headquarters element. The FAC is expected to be knowledgeable in the employment of any CAS elements, be they fixed-wing (jets) or rotary-wing (helicopters). The more familiar the FAC is with the aircraft, the better they will be able to direct its employment. The best FACs have extensive experience as a CAS aircraft pilot.
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Communications Specialist
Tier III Communications Role
A senior Radio Operator utilised by unit commanders in situations whereby the actual commander is required to focus on execution of the mission and therefore transfers partial or full aspects of his chain-of-command communications responsibilities to a dedicated person called the RTO. RTOs are experts in radio communication procedures, communicating with support assets, aircraft and higher headquarters over long range.Explore >>
Joint Fires Observer
Tier IV Communications Role
Joint Fires Observers or JFOs are able to request, control, and adjust joint mortar, Field Artillery (FA), and Naval Surface Fire Support (NSFS) systems; provide targeting information for A-10, AC-130, and other Close Air Support (CAS) aircraft and joint fire support planning at the company level. Additionally a JFO is trained in controlling multiple ground and air based fire support assets at the same time, ensuring the different assets are deconflicted by time, lateral or vertical space, or a combination of the two tactics.
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SF Communications Specialist
Tier IV Qualified Communications Role
A special forces radio operator is like any other special operations operator and is expected to be as capable as those in standard roles. However, they hold the added responsibility of being able to request, control and adjust joint mortar, field artillery, naval and close air support to effect on target. Alongside this they have the responsibility of coordinating with any infil/extract assets and other elements that are operating in nearby AOs in any instance that requires additional ground support. They are expected to be able to control multiple of these at once when required and support the operation through effective use of the assets available. It is a flexible role which may be employed in varying circumstances.Explore >>