DA Form 3479-15: TTCS Operator Commander's Task List

DA Form 3479-15: TTCS Operator Commander’s Task List – US Army personnel in Air Traffic Services (ATS) use DA Form 3479-15 as a standardized training and qualification checklist for operators of the AN/TSQ-198 Tactical Terminal Control System (TTCS). This form tracks progress through qualification phases, ensuring controllers master the skills needed for safe, effective tactical air traffic control in deployed environments.

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What Is DA Form 3479-15?

DA Form 3479-15, titled “Commander’s Task List (ATS) AN/TSQ-198 Tactical Terminal Control System (TTCS) Operator,” is an official US Army form (often associated with the older DA Form 3479-15-R series). Commanders and facility chiefs use it to document individual and team training for TTCS operators.

The form supports a two-phase training program:

Phase 1 (Qualification): Focuses on equipment installation, operation, preventive maintenance checks and services (PMCS), and system setup.
Phase 2 (Position Training and Rating): Emphasizes air traffic control procedures, live traffic management, and position qualifications (e.g., Flight Data, Ground Control, Local Control).

It integrates with DA Form 3479-R (Air Traffic Control Specialist Training and Proficiency Record) and references key publications like FM 3-04.303 (or its successor TC 3-04.81), FAA Order 7110.65, AR 95-2, and equipment technical manuals.

Download the official form here: DA Form 3479-15 PDF.

Overview of the AN/TSQ-198 Tactical Terminal Control System (TTCS)

The AN/TSQ-198 TTCS is a highly mobile, vehicle-mounted air traffic control communication system designed for rapid deployment. It supports brigade-level and below operations by providing air traffic services (ATS) at remote landing zones, drop zones, pickup zones, and temporary helicopter operating areas.

Key capabilities include:

Ground-to-air and ground-to-ground communications.
Support for reconnaissance, maneuver, medical evacuation (MEDEVAC), logistics, and intelligence operations.
Integration of radios (e.g., SINCGARS, HAVE QUICK II, VHF/UHF, HF), meteorological measuring system (MMS), GPS, and antenna groups.
Mobility via HMMWV (e.g., M1165A1) and trailer configurations for quick setup and teardown.

The TTCS enhances situational awareness and enables safe, orderly, and expeditious air traffic flow in austere tactical environments where fixed-base infrastructure is unavailable.

Purpose of the Commander’s Task List

Commanders use this task list to:

Standardize training across ATS units.
Verify operator proficiency in TTCS-specific equipment and general ATC procedures.
Document completion dates, remedial training (if needed), and certifications.
Ensure compliance with safety, regulatory, and mission requirements before personnel control live traffic.

It helps maintain readiness for contingency and combat operations by linking equipment mastery with operational ATC skills.

Phase 1: Qualification Training Tasks (Equipment Focus)

Phase 1 emphasizes hands-on system knowledge. Typical tasks include:

Introduction to the AN/TSQ-198.
Operate/PMCS primary mover and power systems.
Install, operate, and perform PMCS on the AN/TSQ-198 (including local/remote operations).
SINCGARS, HAVE QUICK II, and other radio operations (single/multiple word of day, ECCM, frequency management).
Antenna group installation (VHF/UHF, HF).
Emergency shutdown, alternate power sources.
Meteorological Measuring System (MMS), GPS, and NVD operations.
Prepare system for deployment, grounding, and beacon operations (e.g., AN/TRN-30).
Determine landing direction and emplace visual aids (Landing “Y”/NATO “T”).

Units aim to complete Phase 1 within about 3 months (or faster with demonstrated proficiency).

Phase 2: Position Training and Rating

Phase 2 builds ATC proficiency in a tactical context:

Review of regulations (AR 95-2, FAAO 7110.65, FM 3-04.303).
Flight Data, Ground Control, and Local Control position qualifications.
Helicopter Landing Zone (HLZ) operations, traffic advisories, flight following.
Emergency assistance, light gun signals, A²C² (Army Airspace Command and Control).
Pre-ATCS and ATCS examinations.
Facility-specific procedures and weather certification.

Phase 2 has no fixed timeline—it depends on live traffic opportunities and demonstrated competency. Successful completion leads to position ratings and facility certifications.

How to Use DA Form 3479-15 Effectively?

Initiate Training — Enter trainee details (name, rank, ATCS number, etc.) upon assignment.
Track Progress — Log start/completion dates for each task in the appropriate sections.
Document Evaluations — Record results in DA Form 3479-R sections III and IV.
Remedial Training — Address deficiencies promptly to avoid reclassification.
Commander/Facility Chief Review — Sign off on phase completions and overall qualification.

Facility chiefs and commanders should tailor non-applicable tasks while ensuring core competencies are met.

Importance for USA Army ATS Personnel

Mastery of the TTCS via this task list directly supports Army Aviation and ground maneuver forces. Proficient operators enable safe operations in dynamic battlespaces, reducing risks during MEDEVAC, resupply, and assault missions. This form promotes standardization, accountability, and combat effectiveness for Active Army, Army National Guard, and Reserve ATS units.

Additional Resources

Army Publishing Directorate: Official forms and updates at armypubs.army.mil.
FM 3-04.303 / TC 3-04.81: Air Traffic Services Facility Operations, Training, Maintenance, and Standardization.
FAA Order 7110.65: Air Traffic Control procedures.
Unit SOPs and equipment TMs for system-specific guidance.

For the latest guidance, consult your ATS facility chief or training officer. Proper use of DA Form 3479-15 ensures TTCS operators are fully qualified to support mission-critical air operations.

This article is for informational purposes and references publicly available sources. Always verify with official Army channels for current policy.