682nd Air Support Operations Squadron [682nd ASOS]

The 682nd Air Support Operations Squadron ASOS is an operational component of the Tactical Air Control System.

The 682nd ASOS is assigned to the 18th Air Support Operations Group, Pope AFB, NC, which is a direct reporting agency of 9th Air Force.

The ASOS' primary function is to coordinate and direct the tactical air effort in the support of land forces and provide fast reaction to satisfy immediate requests from the Army for close air support. The ASOS provides advice and assistance to Army commanders concerning the employment of all Air Force resources and may be granted scramble and control authority over sorties designated to fulfill Army requirements.

The squadron is alligned with the Army's XVIIIth Airborne Corps, but also supports Army Central Command (ARCENT).

When deployed, the ASOS forms an Air Support Operations Center (ASOC) under the operational control of the Joint Forces Air Component Commander (JFACC), through the Air Operations Center (AOC).

The 682nd ASOS employs several types of communication systems to get the job done. Capabilities include tactical satellite terminals and tropo/line-of-site systems (long haul comm), and various radio systems for communicatiing with air and ground forces.