What element of the TACS advises ground commanders on the capabilities of air operations?

The correct answer is the Tactical Air Control Party, which plays a vital role in advising ground commanders on the capabilities of air operations. This unit consists of trained personnel who are experts in coordinating and integrating air support into ground operations. They provide real-time assessments and recommendations based on the current battlefield conditions and air capabilities, ensuring that ground forces effectively utilize available air assets to support their missions.

The Tactical Air Control Party acts as a critical conduit of information, linking ground forces with air units. Their deep understanding of both air power and ground operations allows them to facilitate precise support, maximizing the effectiveness of air strikes, surveillance, and transport missions in conjunction with ground maneuvers.

In contrast, while the Air Support Operations Center, Joint Air Ground Operations Team, and Air Liaison Team also play roles in air-ground coordination, their functions differ. The Air Support Operations Center focuses on overall air support management within a larger operational context, while the Joint Air Ground Operations Team may integrate multi-domain operations. The Air Liaison Team assists in providing information but does not have the comprehensive tactical advisory role that the Tactical Air Control Party fulfills.