What is NOT a characteristic of Close Air Support (CAS)?

Close Air Support (CAS) is specifically designed to provide air support to ground forces in close proximity to the battlefield. One of the primary characteristics of CAS is that it is conducted relatively near friendly ground troops to maximize operational effectiveness and responsiveness. This operational proximity allows for more precise targeting, ensuring that air assets can directly assist ground forces in tactical situations.

The essence of CAS lies in its focus on cooperation between air and ground forces, highlighting the importance of real-time coordination and communication to effectively target threats without causing collateral damage. Thus, the idea that CAS is conducted far from ground forces fundamentally misrepresents the concept, as the primary goal is to support troops that are engaged in close-quarters combat.

In contrast, characteristics such as accuracy in targeting, high destructive power, and careful consideration to limit harm to friendly forces are essential attributes of CAS. Precision targeting is critical to minimize the risk of collateral damage, while the destructive power of the munitions used in CAS operations is designed to effectively neutralize enemy threats without jeopardizing the safety of ground forces nearby.