one of the basic missions carried out by frontline (tactical) aviation in the interest of task forces (fronts, armies) and combined ground formations. Aviation support missions are carried out predominantly by fighter-bombers; bombers and also fighters may be called in to complete such missions. The basic function of air support is to wipe out the enemy’s nuclear offensive capabilities, command posts, and radio electronic installations, and to destroy or neutralize the nearest enemy reserves, firepower, and other important objectives in the tactical and operational enemy rear. Air support in offensive operations begins as soon as the friendly troops move to the offensive and in defensive operations as soon as an offensive is launched by enemy troops. Air support is continued throughout the entire period of military operations by ground formations.