Which clearance must the observer issue to allow a CAS engagement?

• A. No clearance required
• B. Engage when ready
• C. Cleared hot
• D. Standby

Answer: (C)

The key idea is that a CAS clearance to fire is a formal authorization from the observer. When the target has been positively identified, the area is deemed safe for engagement, and the necessary safety checks and coordination are complete, the observer uses the phrase that means immediate weapon release is allowed: cleared hot. This signals the pilot that they may engage now and release weapons without waiting for further confirmation, which is crucial in fast-moving CAS scenarios.

Standby would delay the attack and keep the weapons from being released, so it’s not the authorization for instant fire. Engage when ready isn’t a formal clearance and can be vague, risking miscommunication. No clearance required would bypass essential safety and control steps, which isn’t appropriate for CAS.