How Long is TACP Training?
The TACP (Tactical Air Control Party) training is a rigorous and comprehensive program designed to prepare individuals for the challenging role of coordinating air support in military operations. As a crucial component of the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC), TACP operators play a vital role in ensuring the success of ground forces by integrating airpower effectively. One of the most frequently asked questions about TACP training is: how long is it?
The duration of TACP training varies depending on the individual’s prior military experience and the specific branch of service. For those entering the program with no prior military experience, the training typically spans approximately 18 months. This comprehensive training includes both classroom instruction and hands-on field exercises. However, for those with prior military service, especially in air traffic control or related fields, the training duration can be reduced to as little as 12 months.
The 18-month training program is divided into several phases, each with its unique focus and objectives. The first phase, known as the Basic Aircrew Training (BAT), lasts about 6 months and covers the fundamental skills required for a TACP operator. This phase includes courses on navigation, survival, evasion, resistance, and escape (SERE), as well as basic military skills like marksmanship and physical fitness.
The second phase, called the Advanced Aircrew Training (AAT), spans 6 months and delves deeper into the intricacies of air control and joint terminal attack control (JTAC). This phase includes advanced navigation techniques, combat survival skills, and extensive training on air traffic control systems and aircraft operations. Additionally, AAT includes joint exercises with various branches of the military to enhance interoperability and teamwork.
The final phase of TACP training is the Field Training (FT) phase, which lasts approximately 6 months. During this phase, trainees are assigned to operational units, where they gain hands-on experience in coordinating air support for ground forces. This phase is critical for honing the skills learned in the previous phases and preparing trainees for the demands of actual combat scenarios.
In conclusion, the duration of TACP training ranges from 12 to 18 months, depending on the individual’s background. The program is designed to be challenging and demanding, ensuring that TACP operators are well-prepared to perform their critical role in the battlefield. As the training progresses, trainees will be exposed to a wide range of skills and experiences that will ultimately make them invaluable assets to the military and their comrades on the ground.
