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ATO Basics DCS AOC Tools
Last updated: Jul 25, 2025

The Air Tasking Order (ATO) is the heart of air operations planning in AOC Tools, providing a detailed structure for each mission. Creating an ATO relies on several key elements that organize and define operations.

Main ATO Elements

ATO Header: Defining the Operation's Core Details

The "Header" tab (accessed by clicking the "Header" button in the top navigation) is where you define the overarching parameters and administrative details of your Air Tasking Order. This section is crucial as it sets the context for all missions within the ATO.

INFO

  • Real Date: The real-world date for the ATO's validity. This field defaults to the date from your .miz file if not specified.
  • Real Time (UTC, Z): The real-world time in UTC (Zulu) for the ATO's validity. This field defaults to the time from your .miz file if not specified.

OPER/EXER

  • ATO Type: Defines the nature of the ATO.
    • EXER: For exercise operations.
    • OPER: For real operations.
    Selecting one will dynamically show relevant fields below.
  • Exercise Name (if ATO Type is EXER): The name of the exercise.
  • Operation Name (if ATO Type is OPER): The name of the operation.

MSGID

This section defines the message identification details for the ATO.

  • Originator: The entity or command originating the ATO message.
  • Message Serial Number: A unique serial number for the ATO message.
  • Qualifier: Indicates the status of the ATO message.
    • New: A new ATO.
    • Change (CHG): An amendment to a previous ATO. Selecting this option will reveal the "Qualifier serial number" field.
  • Qualifier Serial Number (if Qualifier is CHG): The serial number of the previous ATO message being changed.

TIMEFRAM (UTC, Z or Local, J)

This section defines the period of validity for the ATO. The time zone displayed here depends on your project's timezone setting (UTC or Local).

  • Time From (date): The start date of the ATO's validity period.
  • Time From (time): The start time of the ATO's validity period.
  • Time To (date): The end date of the ATO's validity period.
  • Time To (time): The end time of the ATO's validity period.
  • ASOF: As of Time (date): The date from which the ATO is considered effective.
  • ASOF: As of Time (time): The time from which the ATO is considered effective.

Note: Project time is set to either UTC (Z) or Local Time (UTC offset, J).

AMPN/NARR

  • AMPN: Free text field to provide amplifying information or explanations related to the preceding reference set.
  • NARR: Free text field for narrative information, providing a general overview or additional context for the ATO.

After filling in all desired fields, click the "Save" button to apply your changes and create or update the ATO Header. Saving the header is a prerequisite for unlocking other ATO features like "Missions", "Units", and "Packages".

Task Units

Task Units are a crucial organizational element within the ATO. They represent groupings of resources (such as squadrons or specific units) to which missions are assigned.

  • Mission Assignment: Each mission in the ATO is assigned to a specific Task Unit.
  • Airbase Reference: Task Units are associated with an ICAO code or a location name, indicating their home base. This association is vital for calculating and displaying takeoff times and for the correct functioning of mission filters.

For a more in-depth understanding of what Task Units are and how to manage them, including their creation, modification, and the implications of a correct ICAO code, please refer to the Task Units Guide.

Other ATO Elements

In addition to the Header and Task Units, a complete ATO also includes:

  • Missions: The details of each individual mission (mission numbers, callsigns, aircraft type, task, etc.).
  • Packages: Groupings of related missions that operate together for a common objective.
  • Remarks: Specific notes or additional operational instructions for units or missions.
  • Comm Plan: The communication plan with radio frequencies and contact details.
  • SPINS (Special Instructions): Special instructions governing operations.
  • Assignments: Personnel assignments to missions or control roles.

The combination of these elements allows you to build a detailed and functional ATO for your DCS World planning needs.