This dense urban terrain, compounded with the presence of thousands of civilians, has forced U.S. forces to adjust their tactics to better assist Iraqi troops. This means that the troops responsible for talking to U.S. and coalition aircraft have moved closer to the front lines. On Friday, the Associated Press reported that this change occurred toward the end of December as Iraqi forces were nearing the end of their operation to take eastern Mosul. Within that strike cell were U.S. service members certified to talk and direct U.S. and Western aircraft to the Iraqis’ target. After looking at drone and surveillance feeds of the Iraqi forces and their intended target, the JTACs would direct the aircraft to the area.

Source: Washington Post February 24, 2017 19:07 UTC