Which term refers to the airspace coordination concept that allows indirect fires in a target area while keeping aircraft safe?

• A. Airspace Control Area
• B. Fire Support Coordination Line
• C. Free Fire Area
• D. Airspace Coordination Area

Answer: (D)

The airspace coordination concept focuses on integrating air and ground fires so indirect fires can hit a target area without risking aircraft. An Airspace Coordination Area defines a volume of airspace where airspace control and fire support coordination are synchronized. Within this area, we plan and deconflict to allow artillery, mortar, or rocket fires into the target area while keeping aircraft safe from fratricide and misfires. It provides the boundaries, timing, and procedures that ensure enemy or friendly aircraft aren’t endangered by fires and that air operations aren’t disrupted by the fires.

Other options are broader or apply to different situations. An Airspace Control Area covers general airspace management for air operations, not the specific integration of air and indirect fires. A Free Fire Area allows weapons to be fired with fewer restrictions, which isn’t about protecting aircraft. A Fire Support Coordination Line is a ground-fire coordination boundary, not an airspace deconfliction construct.