In the United States Marine Corps (USMC), ANGLICO stands for Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company. ANGLICO is an airborne fire support and liaison unit responsible for facilitating communication and coordination between the Marine Corps, Navy, and other joint forces. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of ANGLICO, including its roles, responsibilities, training, equipment, missions, and collaboration with other components of the USMC.
Overview of ANGLICO
ANGLICO is a specialized unit within the USMC that provides vital fire support and liaison capabilities. Its primary mission is to establish and maintain communication links between ground units and naval platforms, such as ships and aircraft carriers, to coordinate fire support missions. Additionally, ANGLICO plays a crucial role in facilitating joint operations and ensuring effective communication between different branches of the military during complex military operations.
Roles and Responsibilities of ANGLICO
ANGLICO has a broad range of roles and responsibilities within the USMC. They provide direct support to infantry units by coordinating and directing fire support assets, including artillery, mortar, naval gunfire, and close air support. ANGLICO also conducts reconnaissance and surveillance missions to gather intelligence and assess battlefield conditions. Moreover, they play a vital role in providing target acquisition and designation for aerial platforms.
Furthermore, ANGLICO serves as a liaison between the Marine Corps and other branches of the military, such as the Navy and Air Force. They coordinate and integrate joint fire support assets to ensure effective and synchronized operations. This collaboration enhances the overall effectiveness and efficiency of joint military efforts.
Training and Qualifications Required
ANGLICO personnel undergo rigorous and specialized training to develop the necessary skills and knowledge required to fulfill their roles effectively. The training programs include advanced tactics, communication systems, fire support coordination, and joint operations. ANGLICO personnel are also trained in close air support procedures and familiarized with the various weapon systems and equipment used in their missions.
Qualified ANGLICO personnel possess a diverse skillset, including expertise in radio communication, navigation, target acquisition, and situational awareness. They are trained to operate in high-stress environments and make critical decisions quickly.
Equipment and Tools Used by ANGLICO
ANGLICO utilizes a wide range of specialized equipment and tools to fulfill their roles. They have advanced communication systems that enable them to establish secure and effective communication networks across different platforms. This includes radio systems, satellite communication devices, and data link systems.
In addition, ANGLICO personnel are equipped with various weapon systems, such as laser target designators, which are used to mark targets for precision-guided munitions. They also use portable surveillance and reconnaissance equipment, such as binoculars, drones, and thermal imaging devices, to gather intelligence and assess the battlefield situation.
Examples of ANGLICO Missions and Deployments
ANGLICO has been involved in numerous missions and deployments around the world, showcasing their crucial role in supporting USMC and joint forces operations. They have participated in combat operations, peacekeeping missions, and humanitarian assistance efforts.
One notable mission where ANGLICO played a significant role was during the Gulf War in 1991. ANGLICO units coordinated fire support and provided crucial intelligence, contributing to the success of coalition forces in liberating Kuwait. They have also been deployed in Afghanistan and Iraq, providing fire support and coordination for ground forces.
Collaboration with Other USMC Components
ANGLICO works closely with other components of the USMC to ensure effective coordination and integration of fire support assets. They collaborate with infantry units, such as Marine reconnaissance and Special Operations forces, to support their operations on the ground. ANGLICO integrates aerial assets, including Marine Corps aviation and other joint platforms, to provide timely and accurate fire support to ground forces.
Effective collaboration with other USMC components is essential for ANGLICO to maximize their capabilities and support the overall objectives of the Marine Corps. The seamless coordination between different units enhances the effectiveness of military operations.
Challenges and Future Outlook for ANGLICO
ANGLICO faces various challenges and evolving requirements as military operations and technologies continue to evolve. One of the challenges is keeping pace with rapidly advancing communication and surveillance technologies and adapting to new tactics and strategies. ANGLICO must continuously refine their training and acquire the latest equipment to remain effective in an ever-changing battlefield environment.
Looking to the future, ANGLICO is expected to play an even more vital role in joint operations as the military landscape becomes increasingly complex. Their expertise in fire support coordination and joint capabilities will continue to be in high demand.
Conclusion
ANGLICO, the Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, is a specialized unit within the USMC that provides crucial fire support and liaison capabilities. They play a vital role in coordinating and facilitating communication between ground units and naval platforms, as well as collaborating with other military components during joint operations. Through their extensive training, specialized equipment, and collaborative efforts, ANGLICO enhances the effectiveness and success of USMC operations. As the military landscape evolves, ANGLICO will continue to adapt and fulfill their crucial role in supporting the USMC and joint forces.
