What is the difference between 'coordinated fire' and 'uncoordinated fire' in air support?

• A. Coordinated fire is slower; uncoordinated is faster
• B. There is no difference
• C. Coordinated fire is controlled and integrated with ground operations; uncoordinated fire is uncontrolled and increases risk of fratricide or collateral damage
• D. Coordinated fire uses only air-to-surface weapons; uncoordinated uses artillery

Answer: (C)

Coordinated fire means the air asset’s effects are planned, controlled, and integrated with the ground scheme of maneuver under a clear authority. This involves a joint plan with target validation, timing, weapon selection, and safety constraints, all managed by positive control from a JTAC/FAC(A) and aligned with fire support coordination measures. Uncoordinated fire, by contrast, is not integrated with the ground plan or under approved control; it goes out without deconfliction or safety safeguards, which raises the risk of fratricide and collateral damage and can disrupt the maneuver.

That’s why this option is best: it captures that coordination and integration are the core differences, tied directly to safety, control, and mission effectiveness. The other ideas aren’t about planned integration or safety controls, and they don’t reflect how air support is managed in the field.