In CAS planning, why is the term 'danger close' important?

• A. It indicates the need for tighter control and restrictive engagement to minimize risk to friendly forces
• B. It means engage targets at will
• C. It relates to weather conditions
• D. It means ground troops should evacuate

Answer: (A)

Danger close signals that friendly forces are so close to the target that the effects of the attack could endanger them. In CAS planning, this sets the demand for the tightest control and the most restrictive engagement criteria: every target confirmation, weapon choice, timing, and maneuver must be done with maximum precision to protect troops on the ground. It’s not a license to fire at will—it's a cue to elevate safety measures, ensure exact target location, and coordinate closely with all involved players to minimize risk. Weather conditions or evacuation needs aren’t what danger close denotes; it’s about proximity and the resulting heightened need for control and risk mitigation.