16th Combat Aviation Brigade is JTF-323’s Rotary combat and logistics wing. Split into CAB-A troop, and CAB-B troop.
CAB-A troop is our combat element. Made up of Chaos flight, running AH-64D Apaches for attack roles, and Razor, running the OH-58D(R) Kiowa for reconnaissance and support.
Operating as an integrated unit, the Kiowa is utilised to get eyes on the AO, assess, direct and advise Chaos Sqn lead on threat assessment, and to laser designate targets for Chaos flights Apaches. This enables the Apaches to remain hidden, and ‘lob’ laser guided Hellifire “Kilos” into the AO, where Razors laser guides them to target.
The Kiowa can also be armed with APKWS to take initial shots on deadly threats, such as track radars, and SHORAD systems, keeping Chaos safe and able to operate in a less deadly environment.
Razors “trick shot” capabilities is a powerful tool. Having Apaches “Rifle” multiple missiles at once, spread apart. Once the first target is destroyed, Razor moves to the next target. This results in a deadly rain of fire on the enemy, leaving them destroyed before they can even react.
Utilising datalink, Chaos flight maintains situational awareness in day night/any weather conditions. Allowing lead to see exactly where flight elements are, fuel and weapons status, as well as shots fired. The FCR (Fire control radar) also brings a whole new level of all weather conditions, day/night attack capabilities. Enabling flight lead to pick up targets, share these over datalink, thus allowing other flight members to take a shot on targets they can’t even see, using radar guided Hellfire “Limas”. Fire control zones can also be set, allowing each pilot to have a designated zone to direct their fire, enabling target deconfliction for maximum efficacy.
CAB-B is our logistics and support Sqn. Operating the mighty CH47-F, the “Hook”. With her distinctive blade chop, you hear she’s entering the AO before you see her. Able to carry a multi mission cargo set, from fuel and weapons resupply, through to special forces operators. Always escorted by chaos and Razor, this doesn’t mean she doesn’t have teeth of her own. Utilising door gunners with 7.62mm machine guns, she can fight back on her own.
All CAB pilots are highly trained, and highly skilled. From day missions in tough environments, through to night/inclement weather, utilising the Apaches specialised IHADDS system, projecting a direct infra red image to the pilots eye. This gives the pilot unprecedented situational awareness during night time flying.
If you like the sound of flying at 110 knts, 50 ft off the deck at night, or dropping special forces troops off into an AO freshly sanitised by Apaches, feel free to get in touch with us.
