basic forward observation procedures

MCI 08.61

MARINE CORPS INSTITUTE

BASIC FORWARDOBSERVATIONPROCEDURES

MARINE BARRACKSWASHINGTON, DC

08.616 Dec 96

MCI 08.61 BASIC FORWARD OBSERVATION PROCEDURES

1. Purpose. MCI course 08.61, Basic Forward Observation Procedures, has been published toprovide instruction for all Marines to properly call for and adjust indirect fire support.

2. Scope. MCI 08.61 introduces Marines to the types of indirect fire support available to theoperating forces, the different means of targeting, and target designations. Instruction is given inthe three methods used to locate targets of opportunity: grid coordinates, polar plot, and shiftfrom a known point. In addition, the course emphasizes conduct of fire missions andcommunication procedures utilized by fire support units.

3. Applicability. This course is intended for instructional purposes only. It is designed for use byall Marines.

4. Recommendations. Comments and recommendations on the contents of the course text areinvited and will aid in subsequent course revisions. Please complete the course evaluationquestionnaire located at the end of the text and return it to:

Director (CDD# 3)Marine Corps InstituteWashington Navy Yard912 Poor Street SEWashington, DC 20391-5680

R. A. CHRISTIE Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps Deputy Director

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPSMARINE CORPS INSTITUTE

912 POOR STREET SE

WASHINGTON, DC 20391-5680

BASIC FORWARD OBSERVATION PROCEDURES

CONTENTS

Page

Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i

Student Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii

Study Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v

Study Unit 1 Indirect Fire Support Characteristics

Lesson 1 Fire Support Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1Exercise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Lesson 2 Fire Support Organization and Targeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5Exercise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8

Lesson 3 Artillery Ammunition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10Exercise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14

Study Unit 2 Target Location

Lesson 1 Map/Terrain Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1Exercise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Lesson 2 Determining Direction (Azimuth) to the Target . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5Exercise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

Lesson 3 Determining Distance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12Exercise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17

Lesson 4 Methods of Target Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18Exercise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21

Study Unit 3 Conducting Fire Missions

Lesson 1 Fire Missions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1Exercise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

Lesson 2 Artillery Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5Exercise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14

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CONTENTS--cont'd

Page

Lesson 3 Spotting and Corrections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15Exercise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-22

Lesson 4 Adjustment and Fire for Effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-24Exercise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-30

Review Lesson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . R-1

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STUDENT INFORMATION

TITLE &NUMBER: BASIC FORWARD OBSERVATION PROCEDURES MCI 08.61

STUDYHOURS: 12

COURSEMATERIALS: Text

REVIEWAGENCY: COMMANDING OFFICER

U.S. Army Field Artillery School(Attn: Marine Corps Admin Detachment)Fort Sill, OK 73503

RRC: 4 Reserve Retirement Credits

ACE: To be reviewed by the American Council on Education in 1996

ASSISTANCE: For administrative assistance, have your training officer or NCO use the UnitActivity Report (UAR) or MCI Hotline: DSN 288-4175 or Commercial (202)433-4175.

For assistance concerning course content matters, call the instructor at DSN288-2290/0208/0210, ext 285 or commercial (202) 433-0208/0210/2290, ext 285.

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STUDY GUIDE

Congratulations on your enrollment in a distance training course from the Occupational SpecialtyDepartment of the Marine Corps Institute (MCI). Since 1920, the Marine Corps Institute hasbeen helping tens of thousands of hard-charging Marines, like you, improve their technical jobperformance skills through distance training. By enrolling in this course, you have shown a desireto improve the skills you have and master new skills to enhance your job performance.

The distance training course you have chosen, MCI course 08.61, Basic Forward ObservationProedures, introduces Marines to the types of indirect fire support available to the Fleet MarineForce (FMF), the different means of targeting, and target designations. Instruction is given in thethree methods used to locate targets of opportunity: grid coordinates, polar plot, and shift from aknown point. In addition, it emphasizes on the conduct of fire missions and communications withartillery units.

Because you have chosen to learn at a distance by enrolling in this MCI course, your professionaltraits are evident and we know

YOU ARE PROPERLY MOTIVATED. You made a positive decision to gettraining on your own. Self-motivation is perhaps the most important force in learningor achieving anything. Doing whatever is necessary to learn is MOTIVATION. Youhave it!

YOU SEEK TO IMPROVE YOURSELF. You enrolled to improve those skillsyou already possess and learn new skills. When you improve yourself, you improvethe Corps!

YOU HAVE THE INITIATIVE TO ACT. By acting on your own, you haveshown you are a self-starter, willing to reach out for opportunities to learn and grow.

YOU ACCEPT CHALLENGES. You have self-confidence and believe in yourability to acquire knowledge and skills. You have the self-confidence to set goals andthe ability to achieve them, enabling you to meet every challenge.

YOU ARE ABLE TO SET AND ACCOMPLISH PRACTICAL GOALS. Youare willing to commit time, effort, and the resources necessary to set and accomplishyour goals. These professional traits will help you successfully complete this distancetraining course.

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STUDY GUIDE, continued

Before you actually begin this course of study, read the StudentInformation page. If you find any course materials missing, notifyyour training officer or training NCO. If you have all the requiredmaterials, you are ready to begin.

To begin your course of study, familiarize yourself with thestructure of the course text. One way to do this is to read the Table of Contents. Notice the Table of Contents covers specificareas of study and the order in which they are presented. You willfind the text divided into several study units and a review lesson.Each study unit is comprised of two or more lessons, lesson or unitexercises, exercise solutions and references.

BEGINNINGYOURCOURSE

Leaf through the text and look at the figures and tables. Read afew lesson exercise items (questions) to get an idea of the type ofitems in the course. If the course has additional study aids, such asa handbook or a plotting board, familiarize yourself with them.

LEAFINGTHROUGHTHE TEXT

Turn to the first page of Study Unit 1. On this page, you will findan introduction to the study unit and generally the first study unitlesson. Study unit lessons contain learning objectives, lesson text,and exercises.

THE FIRSTSTUDY UNIT

Learning objectives describe in concise terms what the successfullearner, you, will be able to do as a result mastering the content ofthe lesson text. Read the objectives for each lesson and then readthe lesson text. As you read the lesson text, make notes on thepoints you feel are important.

READING THELEARNINGOBJECTIVES

To determine your mastery of the learning objectives and text,complete the exercises developed for you. Exercises may becontained in a lesson, at the end of a lesson, or at the end of a study unit. Without referring to the text, complete the exerciseitems and then check your responses against those provided.

COMPLETING THEEXERCISES

Continue on to the next lesson, repeating the above process untilyou have completed all lessons in the study unit. Follow the sameprocedure for each study unit in the course.

CONTINUINGTO MARCH

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If you have problems with the text or exercise items that youcannot resolve, ask your training officer or training NCO forassistance. If they cannot help you, request assistance from yourMCI distance training instructor by completing the ContentAssistance Request Form located at the back of the course.

SEEKINGASSISTANCE

To prepare for your final exam, you must review what you learnedin the course. The following suggestions will help make the reviewinteresting and challenging.

CHALLENGE YOURSELF. Try to recall the entire learningsequence without referring to the text. Can you do it? Now lookback at the text to see if you have left anything out. This reviewshould be interesting. Undoubtedly, you'll find you were not able torecall everything. But with a little effort you'll be able to recall a great deal of the information.

USE UNUSED MINUTES. Use your spare moments to review.Read your notes or a part of a study unit, rework exercise items,review again; you can do many of these things during the unusedminutes of every day.

APPLY WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNED. It is always best to usethe skill or knowledge you've learned as soon as possible. If it isn't possible to actually use the skill or knowledge, at least try toimagine a situation in which you would apply this learning. Forexample, make up and solve your own problems. Or, better still,make up and solve problems that use most of the elements of astudy unit.

PREPARINGFOR THEFINAL EXAM

When you have finished all the study units, complete the reviewlesson exam located at the end of the course text. Try to completethe review lesson exam without referring to the text. For thoseitems you are unsure of, restudy the text. When you have finishedthe review lesson exam and are satisfied with your responses, checkyour responses against the answer key provided with your coursematerials.

THEREVIEWLESSONEXAM

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When you have completed your study of the course material andare confident with the results attained on your review lesson(s) take the sealed envelope marked "FINAL EXAM" to your unittraining NCO or training officer. Your training NCO or officer willadminister the final exam and return the exam and answer sheet toMCI for grading. Prior to taking your final exam, read thedirections on the NEW (generic DP-37) answer sheet carefullyand complete all requested information.

TACKLINGTHEFINAL EXAM

MAKE REVIEWS FUN AND BENEFICIAL. Reviews are goodhabits that enhance learning. They don't have to be long andtedious. In fact, some learners find short reviews conducted moreoften prove more beneficial.

USE THE "SHAKEDOWN CRUISE" TECHNIQUE. Ask another Marine to lend a hand by asking you questions about thecourse. Choose a particular study unit and let your buddy "fireaway."


The sooner you complete your course, the sooner you can betteryourself by applying what you've learned! HOWEVER--you dohave 12 months from the date of enrollment to complete thiscourse. In addition, you may be granted one 6-month extension if approved by your Commanding Officer. If you need an extension,please complete the Student Request/Inquiry form (MCI-R11)located at the back of the course, and deliver it to your trainingofficer or training NCO.

COMPLETINGYOURCOURSE

As a graduate of this distance training course and as a dedicatedMarine, your job performance skills will improve, benefiting you,your unit, and the Marine Corps.

GRADUATING!

Semper Fi!

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STUDY UNIT 1

INDIRECT FIRE SUPPORT CHARACTERISTICS

Introduction. To effectively use indirect fire support assets, you should have a basicoverview of their characteristics, fire support organization, and artillery ammunition.Before any Marine employs a weapon, he should have a good understanding of its operationso that he may use it safely and more effectively. This rule is true for your use of indirectfire support means as well.

Lesson 1. FIRE SUPPORT CHARACTERISTICS

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. Select the three types of indirect fire support available to FMF Units.

2. Identify the three indirect fire support assets with their characteristics.

1101. Types of Indirect Fire Support

The three types of indirect fire support available to you are mortars, naval gunfire, and howitzers.Each of these three types of support has its own characteristics and limitations. You may notalways have the choice of all three assets, but you should know which of them you can selectwhen they are available. The major differences among the three are their sizes, trajectories, andfiring capabilities.

1102. Characteristics of Indirect Fire Support Weapons

a. Mortars.

(1) Size. Mortars, which are organic to the Marine Corps Infantry Battalion, arecategorized as light artillery. There are two types: the 60mm mortar (fig 1-1), whichis organic to the weapons platoon of each company, and the 81mm mortar (fig 1-2),which is organic to the weapons company of each battalion. Because of their size,these mortars are best suited to attack personnel. They have very limited usefulnessagainst material targets and require large amounts of ammunition to attack largepersonnel targets.

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Figure 1-1. 60mm mortar. Figure 1-2. 81mm mortar.

(2) Trajectory. A mortar trajectory is characterized by low muzzle velocity and a hightrajectory similar to a good punt in football. This means that mortars can be effectiveagainst targets which are entrenched or situated on a reverse slope and inaccessible todirect fire. It also means that mortar adjustments are not overly distorted by uneventerrain.

(3) Firing capabilities. Mortars have a high rate of fire. They can fire a sustained rate ofup to 20 rounds per minute, depending upon the type of round and mortar being used.They also have a short-range and must keep close to the forward line of troops(FLOT) to maintain fire support. Mortar platoons act as independent firing units anddo not mass fires (bring several units to bear on one target simultaneously). Becauseof resupply problems, the Marines in mortar sections must very often carry theirweapons and their ammunition on their backs. Therefore, mortar ammunition islimited and should be used sparingly.

b. Naval surface fire support.

(1) Size. Naval gunfire currently uses the 5-inch/54 caliber gun mount (caliber on navalguns is determined by dividing the length of the weapon by the diameter of its bore).Five-inch naval gunfire shells are comparable to 155mm rounds and are classified asmedium artillery.

(2) Trajectory. Naval gunfire has a high muzzle velocity and flat trajectory similar to theM16A2 service rifle. This combination makes naval gunfire suitable for both direct orassault fire against material targets that must be penetrated or destroyed. This alsoincludes material targets that present a vertical face. The relatively flat trajectoryresults in a large probable error in range. Therefore, the dispersion pattern is roughlyelliptical. Thus, care must be taken when firing close to troop.

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(3) Firing capabilities. Naval gunfire ships carry 600 rounds of ammunition per gun,which can be quickly used with naval gunfires' high rate of fire, 20 rounds per minute(RPM), in a high intensity environment.

c. Howitzers (Figures 1-3 and 1-4)

(1) Size. The current Marine Corps inventory has 105mm and 155mm howitzers. The105mm is classified as light artillery, the 155mm as medium artillery. The vastmajority of artillery support is provided by the 155mm.

(2) Trajectory. A howitzer fires a medium trajectory. It fires more like a long pass than apunt or screen pass. A howitzer can also fire high-angle fires like a mortar or directfires like a gun, so it is a versatile combat asset.

(3) Firing capabilities. Howitzers have a low rate of fire. Although their firing rates varywith each weapon system, they average 2 to 3 rounds per minute. This sounds slow,but you must consider the principle of "massed fires." What this means to you is theartillery will tailor their fire for effect to meet the target. If you describe a smalltarget, the artillery battery will attack it with one or two howitzers. If you describe alarge target, the artillery will fire a platoon of three howitzers.

Figure 1-3. M198 howitzer.

Figure 1-4. M101A1 howitzer.

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If you have an even larger target, they will fire an entire battery of six howitzers. Forextremely large targets, the artillery battalion can bring the fires of 3 batteries firing18 howitzers to bear on one target. This is called massing fires.

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Exercise: Complete items 1 through 4 by performing the action required. Check yourresponses against those listed at the end of this study unit.

1. Which of the following are three types of indirect fire.

a. Naval gunfire, howitzers, close air supportb. Howitzers, mortars, close air supportc. Mortars, howitzers, tanksd. Howitzers, naval gunfire, mortars

Matching: For items 2 through 4, match the type of indirect fire support in column 1 withthe characteristics which best describes it in column 2. Place your responses in the spacesprovided.

Column 1 Column 2

Indirect Fire Support Characteristics

___ 2. Naval Gunfire a. High trajectory, low rate of fire, light ___ 3. Howitzers artillery___ 4. Mortars b. Flat trajectory, medium artillery, high

rate of fire c. Medium trajectory, medium artillery,

massed firesd. Light artillery, high rate of fire, high trajectory

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Lesson 2. FIRE SUPPORT ORGANIZATION AND TARGETING

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. Identify the three members of the gunnery team with their proper duties.

2. List the duties of the fire support coordinator (FSC).

3. Identify the two types of targets and two types of planned targets.

4. Identify the target numbering system.

5. Define known point.

1201. The Gunnery Team

In using fire support, you will set in motion the actions of a great number of Marines than youmay have initially realized. It takes a well-trained team to deliver effective fire support to theMarines on the modern battlefield. The gunnery team is comprised of three basic elements.Whether it be mortars, howitzers, or naval gunfire, these elements are: the observer, the firedirection center, and the firing element.

a. Observer. The observer is the Marine on the scene. He is responsible for accuratelylocating and identifying targets for the firing units.

b. Fire direction center. The fire direction center (FDC) consists of a group of Marines orsailors who take your request for fire and turn it into gunnery data and a fire order for the firingbattery. The fire direction officer (FDO) decides how to attack the target based on yourdescription.

c. Firing element. The firing element consists of Marines or Sailors manning the tubes thatwill fire the ammunition to attack your target. Depending upon the type of fire support availableto you, you decide whether you will use naval gun fire, a howitzer battery, or a mortarsection/platoon.

1202. The Fire Support Coordinator

Whenever a Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) operates, one officer is designated as thefire support coordinator (FSC). It is his duty to coordinate many assets of fire support (includingfixed and rotary wing close air support) and to use them to their best advantage in supporting theoperation. He does this by organizing a fire support coordination center (FSCC) staffed byMarines from the different fire support units assigned to the MAGTF.

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The FSCC controls or coordinates your fire support needs in one of two ways, passivemonitoring or active direction.

a. You may have one unit of fire support dedicated to your unit's support. Thissection/battery/ship establishes direct contact to you and responds immediately to your calls-for-fire. If you are calling for fire from a unit that is dedicated to your support, the FSCC monitorsthe radio. If your target is suitably attacked by the dedicated unit, the FSCC normally remainssilent and allows the mission to proceed. If the FSC decides that your target requires more ordifferent support, he will take charge of the mission based on your call-for-fire.

b. You may not have any fire support assets dedicated to your unit. In this case, you will calldirectly to the FSCC with your call-for-fire. The FSC receives your call-for-fire, assesses yourneeds against available assets, and either controls the mission or assigns an element to you.

1203. Types of Targets

Each of the three supporting arms plan for and identify targets in their own way and for differentpurposes. Targets may include locations of enemy personnel or material or they may beidentifiable map/terrain features such as hilltops, road junctions, choke points, etc. There are twotypes of targets: planned targets and targets of opportunity. There are some different subtypeswithin these types.

a. Planned targets. Planned targets are identified prior to an engagement or movement. Theyare recorded on target lists maintained by the FSCC, units' headquarters, and the supporting arms'Fire Direction Center. There are three different types of planned targets:

(1) Scheduled targets are planned targets on which fire is prearranged by a time schedule(such as a preparation fire for an attack plan). The supporting arms will work upfiring data ahead of time and fire at these targets in accordance with the time scheduleof the particular operation.

(2) On-call targets are planned targets which are fired by the supporting arms uponrequest from the forward elements. The supporting arms will not normally work updata to these targets until they receive a request, but they will keep the targets on filefor a faster response time.

(3) Priority targets are combination scheduled/on-call targets. They are targets identifiedto the supporting arms as being vital to the mission (such as a final protective fire).The supporting arms will work up data to these targets and, when not engaged inother missions, will remain aimed at and ready for them but will not fire until theyreceive the command.

b. Targets of opportunity. Targets of opportunity are targets that have not been previouslyidentified. They arise during the conduct of battle and are usually temporary in nature. Forexample, if you sighted an enemy reconnaissance vehicle operating near your position, that would

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be a target of opportunity. Once you fired upon it, it would either be destroyed or it would moveout and the target would disappear.

Once fired upon, you may record targets of opportunity for future reference. We will discuss thisin the upcoming study units. It is one way in which you will determine direction and locationwithout a map or compass.

1204. Target Numbering

The Marine Corps designates targets using a system of assigned target number blocks. All targetsare identified by a standard numbering system of two letters and four numbers. The letters andnumbers are assigned to specific units by letter and number blocks. For example:

A Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) may be assigned target block AA0001 throughAA9999.

The MEU will then assign target blocks within this set to subordinate units andorganizations.

The FSCC is assigned AA1000 through AA1999.Alpha Company is assigned AA2000 through AA2999.

As an observer for Alpha Company, you are assigned AA2200 through AA2299.

a. Your unit will be assigned a target number block. You should know your unit's targetblock. If you are a designated observer, you should be assigned a portion of that block fortargeting and planning purposes.

b. If you are not assigned a target block, and you are only calling for fire on targets ofopportunity, the supporting arms will assign a number from their block to any targets they fire.

1205. Known Points

You may often use known points to identify locations to the supporting arms. Known points areany points on the ground or map whose locations are known to both the forward observer and thefiring unit. They may be such things as prominent terrain features, significant manmade objects(large buildings, bridges, monuments, etc.), or unit locations. Planned targets and targets ofopportunity that have been recorded are also known points.

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Exercise: Complete items 1 through 8 by performing the action required. Check your responsesagainst those listed at the end of this study unit.

Matching: For items 1 through 3, match the member of the gunnery team in column 1 withthe duties which best describe it in column 2. Place your responses in the spaces provided.

Column 1 Column 2

Member Duty

___ 1. Observer a. Locates and identifies targets to the firing ___ 2. Fire direction center unit___ 3. Firing element b. Coordinates the fires of different

supporting armsc. Fires the rounds as directedd. Receives call for fire and translates it into

firing data

4. The duties of the fire support coordinator (FSC) include

a. maintaining radio discipline during fire missions.b. monitoring command and fire nets to coordinate the fire support assets and to

use them to their best advantage.c. instructing observers when to fire targets of opportunity.d. determining firing data for supporting arms.

5. Marine Corps units designate targets using

a. individual unit designators.b. observer target numbers.c. an assigned block of two letters and four numbers.d. two numbers and four letters.

6. What are the two types of targets?

a. Planned targets and on-call targetsb. On-call targets and scheduled targetsc. Priority targets and targets of opportunityd. Planned targets and targets of opportunity

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7. What are the three types of planned targets?

a. Priority targets, on-call targets, and targets of opportunityb. Priority targets, scheduled targets, and on-call targetsc. Priority targets, planned targets, and scheduled targetsd. Priority targets, targets of opportunity, and on-call targets

8. A known point is

a. any target with its map location known to the forward observer and thefiring unit.

b. any point on the ground which is known to the forward observer and thefiring unit.

c. any point on the ground or map with its location known to the forwardobserver and the firing unit.

d. a previously fired target or hilltop.

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Lesson 3. ARTILLERY AMMUNITION

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. Identify the three effects of indirect fires with their descriptions.

2. Identify artillery shells by types.

1301. Effects of Artillery Fires

When you attack a target with artillery fires, you have many options available to you. There arethree effects of a supporting arms fire mission: destruction, neutralization, or suppression. Youmust decide which effect you desire to cause. You will make your decision based on yourknowledge of the situation, the enemy, and the effectiveness of artillery ammunition regardingwhich effect of indirect fire you need to employ.

a. Destruction. Target destruction means either a physical material target (such as a building,position, or vehicle) is destroyed or 30 percent or more casualties are inflicted against a personneltarget. Target destruction usually requires the use of precision adjustment and/or highexpenditures of ammunition. Because of ammunition expenditure, destruction missions are rarelyfired and must be well justified.

b. Neutralization. Neutralization fires disrupt the combat effectiveness of an enemy unit.Neutralization of a unit will normally be effected by causing 10 percent or more casualties.Neutralization fires use low ammunition expenditure when the target is attacked with the propershell/fuze combination. Neutralization fires are the most common type of fire mission.

c. Suppression. Suppression of a target causes the enemy to temporarily stop functioning.Suppression of a target can be effective by causing the enemy to take cover or by blocking hisvision temporarily. Suppression requires a low expenditure of ammunition; however, its inabilityto place lasting effects on a target makes it unsuitable for most targets.

1302. Types of Ammunition

There are many types of artillery ammunition available to you, as the forward observer. In thepast, artillery was fairly limited to high explosive, smoke, and illumination. Recently there havebeen many technological advances in artillery ammunition giving a greater variety to the uses ofartillery fires and a greater lethality to the traditional mission. For the sake of simplicity, we willdiscuss only five types of artillery shells in this course. These five types, which you will mostlikely use on the battlefield, are high explosive, improved conventional munitions, whitephosphorous, smoke, and illumination.

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a. Shell, High Explosive (HE). Although HE is a single shell, its versatility with different fuzecombinations causes fire support planners to consider each of its fuze combinations as a differentshell. There are four types of fuzes available for use on the HE shell that cause different effectswith the round. The four types of fuzes are quick, delay, time, and proximity.

(1) Fuze, Quick (Q). Quick is a form of point detonating (PD) fuze, and it causes theround to explode upon impact.

It is more effective against It is less effective against

v Personnel standing v Personnel dug inv Unarmored vehicles v Armored vehiclesv Light material v Hardened material

v Swamp or soft sand surfaces

(2) Fuze, Delay (D). Delay is also a form of PD fuze. It is designed to delay theexplosion of the round for 0.05 seconds after impact. This minor delay causes theround to penetrate soft surfaces slightly or to ricochet off hard surfaces.


v Light earthworks v Soft sand or marshy ground v Buildings v Personnel dug in v Dense wooded areas

(3) Fuze, Time (Ti). Time fuzes can be set to explode at a given time anywhere along thetrajectory of the round. They are most commonly used to create an air burst 20meters above the target. An air burst will have greater shrapnel dispersion andeffectiveness than a graze (ground) burst. A time fuze cannot be used in high anglefires (mortar type trajectory) because the speed of the falling round makes timing theburst difficult.


v Personnel in the open v Personnel with overhead cover v Personnel dug in v Personnel in dense woods v Personnel in unarmored v Armored vehicles

vehicles

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(4) Fuze, Proximity (VT). The proximity fuze is a radio-activated fuze that causes theround to explode at a specified height off of the ground (20 meters for the older models, and 7meters for the newer models). VT will deliver a correct air burst every time, even in high anglefires. Its effectiveness is the same as that of the time fuze.

Note: The 7-meter height of burst on the newer model VT fuze can cause inexperienced observers to spot the rounds as a graze burst instead of an airburst. You should be aware of this so that you do not inaccurately report afuze malfunction. Careful comparison of the appearance of quick fuze grazebursts will help the observer realize when the VT is not a graze burst.

b. Shell, Improved Conventional Munitions (ICM). ICM is a base-ejection projectile filledwith grenades. A base-ejection projectile is a hollow shell with its base attached by a thin weldand shear pins. Fuze function forces the contents of the shell onto the base, pushing it off, anddumping the contents of the shell out of the bottom. All base-ejection projectiles use amechanical time fuze to cause an air burst for proper functioning. The base-ejection causes alarge dispersal effect for the grenades. There are two types of ICM, anti-personnel (APICM orjust ICM) and dual-purpose (DPICM). They are both extremely effective against personnel, butthe DPICM shell is also effective against light armored vehicles.

(1) APICM. The original ICM grenade is a "bouncing Betty." The grenade is containedin a canister that has spring action stabilizer wings to cause it to land right side up.The canister strikes the earth and the grenades pop up and explode. These grenadesare extremely effective against personnel in the open, but are ineffective on materialor against personnel in snow, water, or heavily wooded areas. At present, APICM isbeing phased out of service, so if an observer calls for ICM, he will more than likelyreceive DPICM.

(2) DPICM. DPICM grenades are cylinder shaped grenades that explode and cause thedual action of a shaped explosion downward and fragmentation upward and sideways.The shaped explosion will penetrate light armor (2" of homogeneous steel), and thefragmentation is effective against personnel. The DPICM grenade is guided basedown by a rubber band attached to the top that acts as a stabilizer.

Note: ICM should not be used against target areas which Marines will have to enter,especially in heavily wooded areas. The grenade stabilizers can becomeentangled in twigs and branches where the grenades will not function untilsomeone knocks them out of the tree and they strike the deck.

c. Shell, White Phosphorus (WP). White phosphorus is an extremely useful, versatile shell. Itcauses incendiary effects against volatile targets such as vehicles and fuel or ammunition dumps.It is useful for screening because of its thick cloud of white smoke. It is used to mark targetlocations for observers, direct fire, and close air support because its burst location remainsobvious for a minute or more. There are two types of WP shells available to the artillery

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inventory, shell, WP (the conventional model) and shell, WP smoke (a newer version). Bothshells have similar effectiveness.

(1) Conventional WP. The original WP shell is simply a hollow artillery round with anexplosive burster tube in the center filled with white phosphorus. Fuze function (PD,Time, or VT) causes the burster tube to expand, splits the shell, and exposes the WPto the air. Because this happens so rapidly, the burst appears to be explosive andchunks of WP are sprayed out of the shell. The majority of the WP remains in or nearthe shell and this is what causes the conventional WP round to form its distinctivepillar of white smoke.

(2) Improved Smoke. The improved smoke round (also called WP smoke) is atime-fuzed, base-ejection projectile filled with felt wedges which are soaked in WP.Fuze function in the air causes the round to trail the WP felt wedges behind itspreading them out over a greater area than the old WP round's chunks. This causesthe WP smoke round to have a better screening effect with less tendency of thesmoke to form a pillar.

d. Shell, Smoke (HC). The HC (hexachloroethane) round is a base-ejection projectile filledwith a smoke canister. HC smoke is a more effective screening agent than WP because it has alonger burn time and less tendency to pillar. Smoke is effective for screening all targets, whetherthe user wishes to obscure the target or himself from the target.

e. Shell, Illumination (Illum). Illumination shells are used for illuminating areas of suspectedenemy activity, providing illumination for night adjustment, harrassing enemy positions, markingtargets for attack by close air support, and "washing out" enemy passive night-sight systems. Theillumination lights up the battlefield using approximately 1,000,000 candlepower.

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Matching: For items 1 through 3, match the desired effect of artillery fires in column 1with the definition which best describes it in column 2. Place your responses in the spacesprovided.

Column 1 Column 2

Effect Definition

___ 1. Destruction a. Target temporarily ceases___ 2. Neutralization activity, requires high ammunition expense___ 3. Suppression b. At least 10 percent personnel casualties,

requires low ammunition expensec. At least 30 percent personnel casualties,

requires minimum ammunition expensed. At least 30 percent personnel casualties,

requires high ammunition expense

4. What are the five types of artillery shells?

a. HC, Bee Hives, ICM, HE, and Illumb. HE, HC, WP, Smoke, and Illumc. WP, HE, Smoke, Illum, and ICMd. ICM, Smoke, Illum, HE, and Bee Hive

5. What are the four types of HE fuzes?

a. PD, Quick, Ti, and VTb. PD, Quick, Ti, and Delayc. Ti, Delay, VT, and PDd. Delay, VT, Ti, and Quick

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Matching: For items 6 through 10, match the type of artillery shell in column 1 with thedescription which best identifies its proper usage in column 2 (put X on the spaces for theshells that you cannot match).

Column 1 Column 2

Shell Description

___ 6. HE a. Is more effective against personnel thanother types

___ 7. WP b. Can be used to start fires or for screening___ 8. Smoke c. Is versatile when used with different fuzes___ 9. ICM d. Is used to observe the battlefield___ 10. ILLUM e. Used for screening and obscuration

UNIT SUMMARY

In this study unit, you learned some fundamentals of indirect fire support. Your understanding ofhow the gunnery team and the fire support coordinator will bring you effective support is essentialfor maximizing your combat power and effectiveness. When you call for artillery support, youmust understand what you are trying to accomplish and what tools are available for you to use.Now you know the effects artillery can produce and the ammunition used to cause these effects.In Study Unit 2, you will learn how to locate targets on the ground in terms of calling for fire.

Lesson 1 Exercise Solutions

Reference

1. d. 11012. b. 1102b3. c. 1102c4. d. 1102a

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Reference

1. a. 1201a2. d. 1201b3. c. 1201c4. b. 12025. c. 12046. d. 12037. b. 1203a(1)8. c. 1205


Reference

1 d. 1301a 2. b. 1301b 3. a. 1301c 4. c. 1302 5. d. 1302a 6. c. 1302a 7. b. 1302c 8. e. 1302d 9. a. 1302d10. d. 1302e

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STUDY UNIT 2

TARGET LOCATION

Introduction. Before you can call-for-fire successfully, you must first locate the targets inrelation to the firing unit. Indirect fire support means that the firing unit cannot directly seethe target. They are dependent upon you to get them on target. The key to successful firesupport is the accurate target location. The accurate target location is the result of athorough map analysis, a good terrain association, and an accurate direction and distance.Determining direction and distance is an essential part of map/terrain association, targetlocation, and adjustment of fire. In the first lesson of this study unit, you will learn methodsfor performing a thorough map/terrain association of the target area. The second and thirdlessons of this study unit will teach you to determine directions and distances. The fourthlesson will connect these tools to the three methods used to identify target location to thefiring unit: polar plot, grid coordinates, and shift from a known point.

Lesson 1. MAP/TERRAIN ASSOCIATION

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. Identify the three operations the observer must perform to be oriented.

2. Identify the purpose of a terrain sketch.

2101. Orientation

To locate targets for the supporting arm, you must first orient yourself to the target area. Youwill accomplish three things. First, you must establish your location. Second, you must locateyour target or point you can use for a reference. Third, you must determine the direction fromyou to the target or reference point.

a. Establish location. You must locate yourself in relation to the map as accurately as you can.With enough practice at land navigation and map reading, your self-location by mapinspection/terrain association will be accurate enough for you to conduct fire missions. Ifpossible, you should attempt to locate your position more accurately by performing a mapresection or other accurate means such as Global Positioning System (GPS), or Position Locationand Reporting System (PLRS).

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b. Locate target. You must be able to locate the target relative to your position both on theground and on your map. If you don't have a target, you use a terrain or manmade feature thatyou can also locate on your map. The methods used to locate targets will be discussed in thefollowing lessons.

c. Determine direction. You must establish the direction to your target whether or not youhave a map. This can be accomplished by several different means: compass, cardinal directions,or by terrain association. If you are using a map you can also scale direction on your map with aprotractor. Locate your position on the map and from your location scale the direction toprominent terrain features with a protractor.

(1) Compass. Using a compass, you can orient yourself by orienting your map. Do thisin the following manner: with the map in front of you, place the straightedge of thecompass along one of the north/south grid lines. Turn the map and compass togetheruntil the needle is on north. Move the map and compass together to cause the needleto match the declination diagram (located in the legend of the map at the bottom) innumber of mils left or right of grid north. Now your map is oriented to grid north.

(2) Cardinal direction. If you have neither map nor compass, associate the limits of yourtarget area to the cardinal directions (north, south, east, west). The cardinaldirections are

North: 0 or 6400 Northeast: 0800East: 1600 Southeast: 2400South: 3200 Southwest: 4000West: 4800 Northwest: 5600

Note: Direction would be measured in mils, and a grid direction should be given infour-digits when calling-for-fire. Grid azimuths are measured in a clockwisedirection and there are 6400 mils in a circle.

(3) Terrain association. If you don't have a compass to orient your map with, useprominent terrain features. Put your map in front of you and associate what you seewith the contour lines and symbols on your map. You can make a thorough study ofthe terrain by constructing a terrain sketch.

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2102. Constructing a Terrain Sketch

A terrain sketch (fig 2-1) is a rough panoramic drawing of the area of observation prepared by theobserver. Once constructed, it serves as a rapid means of identifying directions to referencepoints. A terrain sketch also provides a rapid means of orienting relief personnel. Items thatshould be included in a terrain sketch are

v The skyline (horizon) v Prominent features both natural and manmade (hill masses, ridgelines,

bodies of water, trees, roads, buildings, antennas, towers, battlefield debris, etc.)

v Labels (reference points, known points, targets)

Figure 2-1. Terrain sketch.

Reference points should be chosen across the area at intervals not over 200 mils apart to aid inrapidly identifying directions. Each labeled item should include as much information as possiblewithout cluttering the sketch. Identify the information by numbers, reference point names, andknown point designations and place at the top of the "T" (fig 2-1). Labels for direction, distance,altitude, and grid should be placed on the right side of the "T." Reference points usually onlyrequire direction, but known points and targets should have direction, distance, and grid. Terrainsketches are never complete, you must continually refine and update them.

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Exercise: Complete items 1 through 3 by performing the action required. Check your responses against those listed at the end of this study unit.

1. To orient yourself to the target area, you must first ____________, then___________, and finally ____________.

a. establish direction, establish your location, locate your targetsb. establish direction, locate your targets, establish your positionc. establish your position, establish direction, locate your targetsd. establish your location, locate your target, determine direction

2. A terrain sketch is which of the following?

a. Precise record of targets you have locatedb. Technically correct representation of the target area from your viewpointc. Reference tool for determining directions within the target aread. Sketch of targets and known points you can see

3. To establish direction you can use which of the following?

a. Compass, cardinal directions, terrain sketch, terrain analysis, binocularsb. Compass, terrain sketch, map and protractor, terrain association, observed fire

fanc. Terrain analysis, scale, terrain sketch, cardinal directionsd. Compass, cardinal directions, terrain association, map and protractor

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Lesson 2. DETERMINING DIRECTION (AZIMUTH) TO THE TARGET

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. Identify the types of direction used to locate targets.

2. Identify five methods of determining direction to objects in the target area.

3. Identify the methods for determining angular deviation.

4. Determine angular deviation using a binocular reticle pattern.

5. Determine angular deviation using a hand measurement.

2201. Types of Direction

There are several types of direction that can be used to locate targets; namely, observer targetline, gun target line, cardinal/intercardinal direction, and arbitrary reference feature.

a. Observer target line (OT line). The observer target line is an imaginary line from theobserver to and through the target. The OT line is the direction most commonly used in targetlocation and adjustment.

b. Gun target line. The gun target line is an imaginary line from the guns to and through thetarget. It is most commonly used by aerial observers to adjust fire, but can be used by an observeron the ground.

c. Cardinal/intercardinal direction. This is the use of the eight cardinal/intercardinal directions(N, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W, NW). It is the least accurate, but at times you may need to use it.

d. Arbitrary reference feature. You may use a natural or manmade feature (such as anorth-south road or river) from which to reference target location and/or adjustment of fire. Thismay be used in situations where transmission of the OT direction may compromise your location.

2202. Methods of Determining Direction

Determining direction is an essential skill for calling for and adjusting fire. Direction is a termused to indicate the bearing of the spotting line. It is an integral part of terrain-map association,adjustment of fire, and target location. There are five methods by which you can determinedirection; namely, measuring from a reference point, using a compass, scaling from a map,estimating, or using other measuring devices.

a. Measuring from a reference point. Using a reference point with a known direction, you canmeasure angular deviation in mils to a target, or other point, and compute a direction to that pointby applying the deviation to the known distances.

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b. Using a compass. Using a compass you can measure a direction to an accuracy of 10 mils.If you are using a lensatic compass, you read the direction in mils using the outer scale. You mustthen convert the magnetic reading to a grid azimuth. Follow the instructions in the declinationdiagram of your map. Remember, for converting azimuths only, the rule is left add/ rightsubtract. If magnetic north is to the left of grid north, you will add the value of the G-M angle toyour reading to convert magnetic azimuths to grid azimuths. If magnetic north is to the right ofgrid north you subtract the value of the G-M angle from your reading. If you are using an M-2compass, you do not have to convert. You will declinate your compass before using it and thereadings will be grid azimuths.

c. Scaling from a map. Using a protractor, you can scale direction from a map to an accuracyof 10 mils.

d. Estimating. This is the least accurate method but can be used if you have no other means.You should be able to visualize a cardinal direction by remembering the sun and moon rise in theeast and set in the west. If you know you are facing east, then north is to your left, south is to theright, and west is to the rear.

e. Using other measuring devices. New equipment is constantly being developed to helpprovide fast and accurate means to determine direction. Laser equipment, such as the AN/PAQ-3Modular Universal Laser Equipment (MULE), is extremely fast and is accurate within a 2 milaccuracy. The MULE is issued to artillery forward observers and naval gunfire spotters.

2203. Angular Deviation

You must be able to determine angular deviation (measurement) to determine direction and alsofor determining horizontal distance for target location and corrections in adjustment. You candetermine deviation by using binoculars, a battery commanders (BC) scope, an aiming circle or byhand measurement. To determine direction to a point or target, you measure the deviation(horizontal distance) from a point of known direction to the point you are measuring. Regardlessof the means used to measure, you must remember azimuths increase to the right and decrease tothe left. You can remember this by using the right add/left subtract (RALS) rule. If the target isto the right of the reference point, you add the deviation to the known direction. If the target is tothe left, you subtract the difference from the known direction.

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2204. Determine Angular Deviation Using Binoculars

a. The best way to quickly measure an angle is to use the scale on a binocular recticle pattern.Figure 2-2 shows the reticle patterns that you will see in Marine Corps issue binoculars. The leftillustration is the binocular reticle pattern for the M19 binoculars. The right illustration is thereticle pattern for the M17 binoculars. The difference between the two is in the vertical scale.

Figure 2-2. Binocular reticle patterns.

The horizontal scale is graduated in 10-mil increments, numbered one through five, to the left andright from the center (vertex) of the scale. When using these increments, you will identify them toyourself as being either left or right of your known point.

(1) To measure the deviation between the point of known direction and your target, yourfirst step is to align the vertex (center) of the scale with the known point (fig 2-3).

The second step is to determine which number graduation is in line with the center ofthe target.

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You would read this measurement as 30 left.

Figure 2-3. Measuring deviation.

(2) When the known point and the target are farther than 50 mils apart, you can't alignthe vertex with the known point. You must measure by aligning one end of the scalewith your known point and reading the total number of mils to the target (fig 2-4).

You would read this measurement

as 80 right.

Figure 2-4. Target and known point more than 50 mils apart.

(3) When the known point and the target are more than 100 mils apart, you won't be ableto fit both in the reticle pattern. When this happens you must "leapfrog" to measurethe deviation. To do this

vMove the horizontal scale left or right until the known point is located at one end of the scale.

vFind an object or feature near the target end of the scale. This will then become a reference point.

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vMeasure the deviation from the known point to this reference point then move your binoculars until the reference point is at the end of the scale where the known point

was. Measure the remaining number of mils to the target.

v Now apply the total deviation to the known point direction to get the target direction (figs 2-5 and 2-6).

Read Read Add thethis this total ofas 85 as 45 the tworight right then you

subtract that from

the known distance

Figure 2-5. Leapfrogging. Figure 2-6. Leapfrogging.

The reading of the measurement in figure 2-5 was 85 right and the reading in figure 2-6 was 45right giving you a total measurement of 130 right. Using the RALS rule (right add/left subtract)add 130 to the known point direction, and you get the direction to the target.

(4) If the target and your known point are farther apart than one reference point willcover, you must continue to use the leapfrog method until you can reach the target.

b. When operating in a static situation, you can determine angular deviation or measurementby using a BC scope or an aiming circle. These instruments are extremely useful when accuratemeasurements are paramount, such as for precision adjustments, for measuring vertical angles, orfor night observation. Both the BC scope and aiming circle are usually only available fromartillery units.

2205. Determine Angular Deviation Using a Hand Measurement

In situations where speed is essential, or when you have no other means, you can use your handor fingers to measure deviation. To use this method accurately, you must remember to fullyextend your arm (elbow locked) each time. With your arm fully extended, palm pointed awayfrom you, place your hand or fingers between your point of known direction and the targetreference point. By using the values shown in figure 2-7, you can determine angular deviation.

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Figure 2-7. Angular deviation measurements.

To increase accuracy, you should calibrate your hand. The values may vary slightly depending onsize of the hand. To calibrate your hand, you simply measure the deviation between objects withyour hand and check the measurement against known deviation or measure the deviation with aninstrument.

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Exercise: Complete items 1 through 5 by performing the action required. Check your responses against those listed at the end of the study unit.

1. What are two methods of determining directions in the target area?

a. Leapfrogging and hand measurementb. Hand measurement and binocular reticle patternc. Measuring from a reference point and using a compassd. Directional instrument and binocular reticle pattern

2. You measured an azimuth of 1430 to a target using your lensatic compass. Thedeclination diagram shows a G-M angle of (magnetic right) 140 mils. What is thetarget direction?

a. 1290 c. 1870b. 1570 d. 1990

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3. What are the two methods for measuring angles between objects?

a. Leapfrogging and hand measurementb. Hand measurement and binocular reticle patternc. Directional instrument and hand measurementd. Leapfrogging and binocular reticle pattern

4. In the figure below, what is the angle between the vertex and the target?

a. 4.5 mils c. 45 milsb. 40 mils d. 50 mils

5. You have calibrated your hand as follows:

v Fingers 40 mils eachv Closed fist 200 milsv Spread hand 400 mils

Determine the measured angle between the points in the figure below.

a. 40 mils c. 120 milsb. 80 mils d. 200 mils

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Lesson 3. DETERMINING DISTANCE

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. Determine the distance to a target by using the "flash-to-bang" method given asituation.

2. Identify the procedures used to determine distance to a target using an observed fire(OF) fan and terrain association.

3. Determine lateral distance to a second point given a point of known distance and anobservation.

2301. Distance

Once you have determined the direction, you must determine the distance to the target. Distanceis the horizontal space between a reference point and a target or between you and the target.Determining a distance is normally the most difficult variable in target location. It is also used inthe adjustment of fire. The standard unit of measure for a distance is the meter. Distance can bedetermined by one, or a combination, of these methods: lasers, flash-to-bang, or estimation.

a. Lasers. Lasers are the preferred method for determining observer to target (OT) distance.When a laser is used, distance can be determined to an accuracy of 10 meters. The MULE andthe AN/GVS-5 laser rangefinder provide an observer with the fastest and most accurate means ofdetermining distance.

b. Flash-to-Bang. Because we know that sound travels at a speed of 350 meters per second,we can use sound to estimate distance. To use this method, you must count the number ofseconds between the detonation of the round (FLASH) and the sound (BANG) of the impact.Multiply the number of seconds by 350. The answer is the distance in meters from the observerto the target or round. Use the equation

FLASH-TO-BANG (in seconds) X 350 = DISTANCE

This method has several uses to the observer. It not only determines a distance, it can be used toconfirm a distance. It can also be used to determine the distance to the muzzle flash of enemyweapons.

c. Estimation. You must estimate the distance if there isn't a more accurate means available.The degree of accuracy is dependent on several factors, such as terrain, time available, and yourexperience. Remaining stationary is a key element, if this method is to be effective.

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(1) A mental estimate is made by use of a known unit of measure. Distance is estimatedto the nearest 100 meters by determining the number of known units of measure, suchas a football field (100 yards), between you and the target.

(2) You must consider the following effects when estimating a distance:

vObjects appear nearerv In bright lightv When you are looking downv When you are down a roadv When you are looking across water, snow, or a uniform surface such as a

desertv When the background is in contrast to the color of the object

vObjects appear more distantv In poor light or fogv When only a small part of the object is seenv When looking over a depression, most of which is visiblev When the background is similar in color to the object

(3) When visibility is good, distance can be estimated by using the appearance of treetrunks, their branches, and foliage (using the naked eye) in comparison to map data.

(4) You must always do a terrain/map analysis to assist in estimating distances. Whenyou are looking in a specific direction, the estimation of distance can be enhanced bystudying the terrain to associate what you are seeing on the ground with what you seeon your map. The use of an observed fire (OF) fan helps you associate map andcompass direction.

(5) Altitude is the vertical distance measured from sea level. The standard unit ofmeasure for altitude is the meter. Altitude is determined from a map study using thecontour lines and contour interval.

2302. Observed Fire (OF) Fan

The OF fan is a transparent protractor that can be used to show the direction and distance on themap. It helps the observer identify on the map what he sees on the ground. The OF fan has 17radial lines that are 100 mils apart and cover a total area of 1600 mils. The radial lines representOT direction. The OT distance is represented by arcs marked on the fan every 500 meters andlabeled every 1000 meters beginning at 1000 and extending to 6500. The OF fan is availablethrough the supply system as GTA 6-7-3. You can make your own OF fan by scaling directionwith a coordinate scale and scaling distances from your map.

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a. Orienting the OF fan. To use your OF fan effectively you must first orient your map, locateyour position, and mark your location on the map. Then locate a reference point in the directionof your area of operation. Now you are ready to orient your OF fan by performing the followingsteps:

(1) Place the vertex of the OF fan over your location.

(2) Place the center radial line in the direction of your reference point.

(3) Move the fan slightly until one of the radial lines is parallel to a grid line (regardless of what direction to the reference point may be), one of the radial lines will always point to a cardinal direction.

(4) Attach the OF fan in position on the map by using a piece of tape along one edge ofthe fan. The fan can then be lifted, if required, to inspect the map without disturbingits orientation.

(5) With a marker pen or grease pencil, number the even directions (every second radialline) dropping the last two zeros.

b. Determine target location. To determine the target location, you must first determinedirection using one of the methods previously discussed. Sight along that direction on your OFfan and map until you associate the terrain around the target with the proper contours on the map.Observe the ticks on your OF fan, or measure with a protractor, and read the distance +/- 100meters. In figure 2-8, you would determine the distance to the target located at grid 531269 as3200 meters.

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Figure 2-8. Target location using the OF fan.

2303. Determining Lateral Distance

Lateral distance is the distance left or right, from one object to another, perpendicular to your lineof sight. Determining lateral distance is important for you in order to adjust fire and for locatingtargets using the shift from a known point method of target location, which will be discussed inthe next lesson. The accuracy of your lateral distance estimation will depend upon how well youdetermine the distance from you to the target. Once you have established the distance from youto the target, you will use the mil relation formula (W=R x m) to convert the measured angle inmils to a lateral shift in meters. This formula is based on the rule that 1 mil of arc, at a distance of1000 meters, will equal 1 meter of lateral distance. It's similar to how windage and elevationchanges on your rifle create different points of impact at different ranges.

The mil relation formula: W = R x m

W = Width or lateral shift (distance) in meters

R = Range or distance measured in meters (divided by 1000)

m = Angle measured in mils

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Follow the sample problem to use the mil relation formula to determine a lateral distance.Looking at figure 2-9, follow the step-by-step instructions:

Figure 2-9. Lateral distance determination.

Known: Distance to known point-2500 meters angle in mils-60 mils

Step 1: Find the value of R. Divide the distance to the known point by 1000, 2500/1000 = 2.5. The value of R = 2.5.

Step 2: The measured angle is 60 mils. The value of m = 60.

Step 3: To find W, multiply the value of R by the value of m, 2.5 x 60 = 150. The value ofW = 150 meters.

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Exercise: Complete items 1 through 3 by performing the action required. Check yourreponses against those listed at the end of this study unit.

1. Which of the methods for determining distance is the most accurate?

a. Estimation c. Flash-to-bangb. Lasers d. OF fan

2. You have observed an enemy crew served weapon firing. You saw the muzzle flashand counted 4 seconds until you heard the report of the weapon. What is the distanceto the enemy?

a. 140 meters c. 1400 metersb. 1240 meters d. 12400 meters

3. When determining distance to a target using terrain association and the OF fan youread distance to the target to +/- ________ meters.

a. 1 c. 50b. 10 d. 100

4. You have observed a target to the right of a known point. The distance to the knownpoint is 1500 meters. You measured the angle between the known point and thetarget to be 50 mils. What is the lateral distance from the known point to the target?


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Lesson 4. METHODS OF TARGET LOCATION

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. Locate a target by polar plot given a terrain sketch and a reference point.

2. Locate a target within 100 meters expressed as a six-digit grid, given a map and acoordinate scale.

3. Determine the range and lateral shift to a target given a known point and orientingdata.

2401. Polar Plot

The polar plot method of target location consists of three elements: direction, distance, andvertical shift. You determine these elements and report them to the FDC. The primary advantageof the polar plot method is that it is fast and can be done without a map. If a laser rangefinder isused, the polar plot method is very accurate. A disadvantage is that your position must be knownto the firing unit. This may require you to send a coded message to your location (includingaltitude) before sending the call-for-fire. To perform a polar plot, follow these steps:

Step 1: Determine direction to the target to the nearest 10 mils.

Step 2: Determine/estimate the distance to the target to the nearest 100 meters.

Step 3: Determine the difference in altitude between your position and the target to the nearest 5 meters. You need not report a vertical shift of less than 30 meters.

2402. Grid Coordinate

Target location by grid coordinate is a natural extension of the polar plot method. The FDCdoesn't need to know the observer's location to use the grid method. Normally you locate targetsto the nearest 100 meters (six-digit grid). You do the plot on your map and refine with terrainassociation, then read the grid where the target plots on your map. When additional accuracy isrequired (for registrations or locating known points) you should locate targets to the nearest 10meters (eight-digit grid).

a. Map inspection. With sufficient terrain features and/or reference points to associate, youcan determine six-digit grids by map inspection. To determine grids by map inspection, yousimply observe the target in relation to the terrain, find that spot on the map, and scale a grid.

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b. Supplementary data. With the use of your OF fan, you can determine six-digit grids easilyand, with good observations, you can determine eight-digit grids accurately. Follow these stepsto determine a grid using your OF fan.

(1) Determine the direction to the target using one of the methods covered in Lesson 2.

(2) Determine distance to it with one of the methods taught in Lesson 3.

(3) Find the direction on or between the rays of the fan.

(4) Follow along the direction until you are at the determined distance by using the tickmarks on the rays.

(5) Plot the point and then scale the grid from the map.

2403. Shift from a Known Point

The shift from a known point method of target location is when you locate a target in relation to aknown point (fig 2-10). This method offers several advantages. It is accurate, you don't have touse a map, and your location need not be known to the FDC. However the FDC must know thelocation of the known point. The known point may be a terrain reference point previouslyrecorded or a target that was previously fired and recorded. To perform a shift from a knownpoint, follow these steps:

a. Identify the known point to be used to the FDC by target or known point number.

b. Determine the OT direction to the nearest 10 mils and report as "direction _______."

c. Determine the lateral distance between the known point and the target to the nearest 10meters, using the mil relation formula you learned in Lesson 3, report this to the FDC as "right____(or left ____)." If the deviation is greater than 600 mils, the mil relation formula becomesinaccurate, you should use the grid method of target location.

d. Determine the range shift from the known point to the target to the nearest 100 meters. Ifthe target is further from you than the known point, you report "add ____." If the target is closerto you than the known point, you report "drop ____."

e. Determine the vertical difference between the known point and the target to the nearest 5meters, if the difference is greater than 30 meters, you report this as "up ____ " (or "down____").

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Figure 2-10. Shift from a known point.

Figure 2-10 gives an example of a shift from a known point method of target location. Thefollowing computations are for figure 2-10.

Mil relation formula: W = R x m

R = (known distance/1000)

m = (angular deviation 80m)

W = 2.1 x 80 = 168.0 168.0 rounded to nearest 10 M = 170 M

W = Right 170

Distance = Estimated distance - Known distance 2900 - 2100 = Add 800

Altitude = 450 - 400 (greater than 30 meters) UP 50

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Situation: Select the correct answers using the information given and illustrations 1 and 2.

The first illustration is your observation of your target and a stalled tank. The peak onwhich your reticle pattern is centered is known point 1. The distance from you to the tankis 3800 meters.

The second illustration is your oriented map and OF fan with known point 1 (KP0001) plotted at grid 714461. You have the following data for known point 1: direction 4790, distance 5900, altitude 2450. The contour interval of the map is 20 meters.

Illustration 1.

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Illustration 2.

1. What is the grid to the target?

a. 736473 c. 739467b. 736464 d. 740471

2. What is the correct polar plot of the target?

a. DIRECTION 4745, DISTANCE 3550, DOWN 80b. DIRECTION 4835, DISTANCE 3850, UP 80c. DIRECTION 4840, DISTANCE 3800, DOWN 60d. DIRECTION 5090, DISTANCE 3000, UP 60

3. What is the correct shift from known point 1 to the target?

a. DIRECTION 4835, RIGHT 270, ADD 940, DOWN 160b. DIRECTION 4835, LEFT 260, DROP 2000, UP 60c. DIRECTION 4840, RIGHT 260, DROP 2100, DOWN 60d. DIRECTION 5090, LEFT 270, ADD 1000, UP 160

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UNIT SUMMARY

In this study unit, you learned the methods and techniques for locating targets within the targetarea. You learned the basics of map/terrain association and the determination of direction anddistance from yourself to objects or from objects to objects. As an observer, you will be requiredto perform these actions repeatedly. In Study Unit 3, you will learn to call for, adjust roundsonto, and engage targets in fire for effect. In adjusting rounds and reporting their effects, you willagain be required to associate your observations to the map and to determine direction anddistances.

Lesson 1 Exercise Solutions Reference

1. d. 21012. c. 21023. d. 2101c


1. c. 22022. b. 2202b3. b. 22034. c. 2204a5. d. 2205


1. b. 2301a2. c. 2301b3. d. 23024. b. 2303


1. b. 24022. c. 24013. c. 2403

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STUDY UNIT 3

CONDUCTING FIRE MISSIONS

Introduction. In the previous study unit, you learned to locate targets by determiningdistances and measuring angles. In this study unit, you will learn how to conductyour fire missions, artillery communications, spotting and corrections, andadjustments on fire for effect.

Lesson 1. FIRE MISSIONS

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. Identify one of the three desired effects of a fire mission given a scenario.

2. Select one of the four types of fire missions given a scenario.

3. Select a type of adjust fire mission used to locate the target.

4. Determine if a fire for effect mission is used given a scenario.

5. Determine if a suppression mission is conducted properly given a situation.

6. Determine if an immediate suppression mission is conducted properly given asituation.

3101. Three Types of Effects of Fire Missions

When you engage a target with artillery, you will be firing to achieve one of three effects upon theenemy. You will be firing to destroy, neutralize, or suppress the enemy.

a. Destruction. To destroy a target you are either going to actually destroy a material targetby fire or cause 30 percent or more casualties against a personnel target (which will render a unitineffective for combat). To destroy a material target you will conduct a precision fire mission,which is an extended adjust fire mission requiring target "hits." Destruction of a material targetrequires that an artillery piece or battery expose itself to detection and counterfires. Destructionof a personnel target requires large ammunition expenditures and must be well justified.

b. Neutralization. The majority of missions fired will be neutralization missions. Ten percentcasualties will neutralize a combat unit, severely degrading its combat efficiency. Neutralizationfires do not require large ammunition expenditures when the target is attacked with the propertype and amount of ammunition.

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c. Suppression. Suppression missions will temporarily stop an enemy unit from beingeffective. Suppressive fires will either cause an enemy to seek cover or, by using smoke,temporarily obscure his vision of the battle area. Both the suppression and immediate suppressionmissions yield suppressive results only during the time the fire is being delivered.

3102. Types of Fire Missions

There are four types of fire missions: adjust fire, fire for effect, suppression, and immediatesuppression. You will achieve destruction, neutralization, or suppression of the enemy byperforming one of the four types of fire missions. Each type of fire mission is designed to bringfires to targets for different effects, except the adjust fire mission, which is a method of targetlocation prior to conducting either fire for effect or suppression.

3103. Adjust Fire (AF) Mission

Adjust fire missions are requested when you decide an adjustment will be needed. An adjustmentmay be needed because of questionable target location or lack of registration corrections. Thereare two types of adjustment missions: area fire and precision fires. For precision fires, adjustmentwill be necessary no matter how accurate your target location is.

a. Area fire. Artillery, mortars, and naval guns are all area fire weapons; therefore, most ofyour targets will be area targets. Area fire is used on area targets. Since many area targets canmove, the adjustment should be made as rapidly and accurately as possible to keep the target fromescaping. A well-defined point should be selected at or near the center of the area to be attackedand used as an adjusting point. To achieve surprise, fire could be adjusted on an auxiliaryadjusting point and when completed, the fire for effect could be shifted to the target. Normally,adjustment is conducted with one adjusting weapon.

b. Precision fire. Precision fire adjustments are conducted with one weapon on a target. It isused either to obtain registration corrections or to destroy a target. When the mission is aregistration, it is initiated by the FDC with a message to observer. If the target is to be destroyed,you must announce, "Destruction," in the call-for-fire.

3104. Fire for Effect (FFE)

Firing for effect, without previously adjusting to the target, is the most effective way of engagingthe enemy with indirect fire. Adjusting rounds will alert the enemy and cause him to change hisposture, thereby nullifying more than half of your effectiveness. The fire for effect mission is usedwhen you have accurate target location and are certain the first volley will impact on target withlittle or no adjustment. With first round FFE you will achieve the maximum potential damage tothe target. The accuracy required to fire for effect depends on the target and the type ofammunition being used. You should always strive for first round fire for effect.

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3105. Suppression (S) Mission

Suppression missions are conducted to temporarily stop the enemy from functioning. You maysuppress an enemy observation post (OP) to stop it from directing fire on friendly units. You maysuppress an enemy gun position to stop its support of the enemy defense. Suppressions arenormally conducted against planned targets to support a scheme of maneuver, such as suppressingthe objective until the assault elements reach the fire coordination line. Suppression may beconducted with HE or smoke. For a suppression mission that is planned in the operation order,no coordination is necessary. You will only need to request the suppression, and the firing unitwill conduct the mission according to the plan.

When you call for an unplanned suppression mission, you must tell the FDC the length of timethat you require for the suppression. You should tell the FDC the size of the target to suppressand the nature of the requirement. If the FDC receives no more information than the time lengthof the suppression, they are supposed to fire the battery/platoon at the maximum sustained ratefor the length of the suppression. This may require them to use too much ammunition, and theymay deny you the fire mission. If they understand your requirement better, they can time a slowerrate of fire or use fewer tubes to accomplish the mission with less drain on their ammunitionsupply.

3106. Immediate Suppression (IS) Mission

Immediate suppression is a means to get the enemy off your back so you can maneuver, assaultthe ambush, or have time to formulate a neutralization or destruction mission. Immediatesuppression is called for only when you or your unit is suddenly halted or endangered by enemyactivity such as an OP directing fire, a gun position firing upon you, or a similar situation. Theshell/fuze combination and number of pieces/rounds to fire in suppression will be dictated by unitSOP or the operation order for the mission. Immediate suppression is an expedient measure togive you time to react to a situation. It should end as soon as possible or convert into a FFEneutralization mission.

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1. You are attacking an enemy unit with artillery. You wish to severely degrade their combat effectiveness without a large expenditure of ammunition. Which effect doyou desire from the fire mission?

a. Neutralization c. Destructionb. Suppression d. Immediate suppression

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2. You are attacking an enemy stronghold with artillery. You wish to make the enemy permanently combat ineffective. Which effect do you desire from the fire mission?


3. You observe an enemy gun position to the flank of your unit's advance. You wish totemporarily render it incapable of supporting the enemy defense. Which effect doyou desire from the fire mission?

a. Destruction c. Neutralizationb. Suppression d. Immediate suppression

4. You are directing fires against an enemy unit in order to neutralize it. You havelocated the target accurately by polar plot using your AN/GVS-5. Which type of firemission will you conduct?

a. Suppression c. Fire for effectb. Adjust fire d. Immediate suppression

5. Which adjust fire mission is conducted to locate the target?

a. Adjust fire c. Area fireb. Precision fire d. Creeping fire

6. In which of the four listed situations would you call for a suppression mission?

a. An enemy OP directing fires against your defensive positionsb. A machinegun position providing supporting firesc. An enemy OP which might direct fires against attacking Marinesd. A reconnaissance patrol scouting your flanks

7. In which of the four listed situations would you call for an immediate suppressionmission?

a. An enemy OP directing fires against your defensive positionsb. A machinegun position providing supporting fires against your position during a

counterattackc. An enemy OP which might direct fires against attacking Marinesd. A reconnaissance patrol scouting your flanks

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Lesson 2. ARTILLERY COMMUNICATION

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. Identify the four methods of communication available to the observer.

2. Identify the six elements of the call-for-fire in their correct order.

3. Identify the four elements of the message to the observer.

4. Report upon firing.

3201. Means of Communication

You must maintain constant effective communication with the firing unit to receive and controlsupporting fires. There are four methods of communications that you may use: radio, wire,digital communications terminal (DCT), and messenger.

a. Radio. Your primary methods of communication will be by radio. You will normallyrequest and adjust artillery fires and pass target information over the artillery conduct of fire net.There are certain procedures that must be remembered when you are using the radio.

(1) Call signs. You will use your call sign and the FDC's call sign in your initial firerequest. Once you are into your mission, you will no longer need to use call signseach time you send information. You just key the handset and give the necessaryinformation. If the firing unit is conducting missions for more than one observer, youwill need to identify yourself for each transmission. If you are conducting more thanone mission at the same time, you will need to identify the mission number to whichthe transmission pertains.

(2) Announcing digits. Whenever you send a number or numbers to the firing unit, youmust pronounce each digit of the number. For instance, if you wish to send adirection of 1490, you must say, DIRECTION, ONE-FOUR-NINER-ZERO. Theonly time you will not announce each digit is if the number ends in an even hundred orthousand. For instance, for 1000 you will say, DIRECTION, ONE THOUSAND notDIRECTION, ONE-ZERO-ZERO-ZERO. For 1300, you must say, DIRECTION,ONE-THREE-HUNDRED not DIRECTION, THIRTEEN-HUNDRED. You willsend many digits over the radio to call for and adjust fires. Pronounce each digit andhundred and thousand instead of successive zeros for the same reason, clarity.

(3) Repeat and say again. Whenever you say REPEAT to the supporting arms, you willreceive another round, or rounds, fired at the exact same data and command as theprevious one (ones) fired. If you have just fired a battery, two rounds, DPICM at atarget and you key the handset on the radio and say REPEAT, you will receive twelvemore DPICM rounds at the same spot as the last ones.

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Do not say REPEAT on the radio to ask someone to say TRANSMISSION AGAIN!Say, SAY AGAIN, OVER. When you ask a station to SAY AGAIN, they will saytheir last radio transmission over again. When you ask the station to repeat, their nexttransmission will be SHOT, OVER.

(4) Read back. Every time that you make a fire mission essential transmission to the firing unit, they must read it back to you, word for word. Every time they make a firemission essential transmission to you, you must read it back, word for word. Thereason for this is to ensure there is no misunderstanding in targeting information. Amistake in target location could cost the friendly people their lives.

(5) Correction of errors. Any mistake made during a transmission must be clearly corrected so that it is understood it is a correction of an error. Suppose you sent thistarget location for a shift mission; the message would be

DIRECTION 1600, LEFT 500, DROP 1000, OVER.

The FDC should read back

DIRECTION 1600, LEFT 500, DROP 1000, OUT.

As they read back your transmission you realize that you meant to say right and not left. You then say

CORRECTION, RIGHT 500, OVER.

The FDC should then read back

DIRECTION 1600, RIGHT 500, DROP 1000, OUT.

This same procedure is true whether you make the error in announcing or if the FDCcopies it wrong and makes the error in the read back.

b. Wire. You can use wire communications to the extent permitted by the tactical situation,time, and personnel available. In a static defensive posture, a landline may be used between thecompany commander and a remote observation post.

c. Digital Communications Terminal (DCT). The DCT is a handheld device that enables usersto rapidly prepare, transmit, and receive both text and graphic messages (clear and encrypted)over standard military radio or field wire. The DCT uses a burst transmission capability that,when used instead of voice communications, minimizes the vulnerability to enemy radio directionfinding and jamming. You will use the DCT to transmit calls-for-fire, fire plans, and battlefieldinformation. When using the DCT, you must ensure the required destination links and addressesare programmed to allow for fire support coordination.

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d. Messenger. The FO may use this method of communication, tactical situation permitting.This method is a secure method of sending fire plans. It reduces radio traffic thus hamperingenemy direction finding.

3202. Call-for-Fire

The call-for-fire is a request for fire containing all data necessary for obtaining the required fire ona target. It is a concise message prepared by the observer and transmitted as a request, not as anorder. It is sent quickly, but clearly enough to be understood, recorded, and read back withouterror by the FDC. The call-for-fire consists of six elements and is transmitted in three parts, witha break and read back after each part. The six elements of the call-for-fire are: observeridentification, warning order, target location, target description, method of engagement, andmethod of fire and control. These must be transmitted in the following order:

v The observer identification and the warning order are the first transmission.

v The target location is the second transmission.

v The target description, method of engagement, and the method of fire and control arethe third transmission.

a. Observer identification. The observer identification lets the FDC know who is calling. Useyour call sign to identify yourself. Once given, call signs are omitted from subsequenttransmissions during that mission unless there is a chance of confusion; for instance, anotherobserver is conducting a mission at the same time you request your mission.

b. Warning order. The warning order clears the net for the fire mission and tells the FDC whattype of mission you want and the method of target location. The warning order consists of thetype of mission, the size of the element to fire for effect, and the method of target location.

(1) The type of mission will be one of the four types you learned about in the last lesson: adjust fire, fire for effect, suppression, or immediate suppression.

(2) The size of the element to fire for effect is normally a battery but you may request more or less. For instance, if you have a very large target, you may want a battalionto fire in effect. If the target area is small, you may feel you only need two guns toaccomplish the job. For an inexperienced observer, it is usually best to let the FDCdecide the size of the element to fire for effect.

(3) The method of target location must be given. Polar or shift from a known point mustbe announced. If you are using a laser, you must let the FDC know. Do notannounce the method of target location if you are using the grid method, this isstandard. If you don't say which method you are using, the FDC will know you areusing the grid method.

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Example: You want to call in an adjust fire mission using a battery in effect, and you havelocated the target by shifting from known point 2.

Your first transmission would be C30 THIS IS C56, ADJUST FIRE, SHIFT KNOWN POINT 2, OVER.

c. Target location. You must tell the FDC where the target is to receive fire on it. If you usedthe grid method for target location, announce the grid coordinates. For the polar method, givethe direction and distance from you to the target. If you are using the shift method, give your OTdirection, then how far right or left of the known point the target is (lateral shift), then how muchcloser or farther the target is from the known point to you (range shift). This is given as ADD orDROP from the known point in 100 meter increments. Next, you would give a vertical shift if thetarget is 30 meters higher or lower than the known point. Vertical shifts are given as UP orDOWN.

Example: Your target is on a direction of 3860, it is 50 mils right of known point 2 (yourshift factor is 3), and you estimate the target to be 600 meters farther thanknown point 2. Your map shows the area where the target is to be 40 meterslower than known point 2.

Your second transmission to FDC would be DIRECTION 3860, RIGHT 150, ADD 600, DOWN 40, OVER.

d. Target description. Your description of the target should be brief and accurate. It shouldtell the following:

vWhat the target is (troops, trucks, supply dump, etc.)

vWhat the target is doing (digging in, in assembly area, refueling)

vThe number of elements in the target (squad, platoon, three trucks)

vThe degree of protection (in open, in fighting holes, with overhead cover)

vTarget size and shape (linear, rectangular, circular, or irregular shaped)

(1) A linear target (a target greater than 200 meters in length but less than 200 meters inwidth) is described by sending the FDC an attitude and length of the target. Attitudedescribes the direction of the line in relation to the north/south line and is given as anazimuth from 0 to 3100 in 100 mil increments. For example: ATTITUDE 1300,LENGTH 300. Attitude is always given as less than 3200.

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(2) A rectangular target is greater than 200 meters in length and width and is describedto the FDC by length, width, and attitude. For example: 400 by 200, ATTITUDE2800.

(3) Circular targets are targets having a radius greater than 100 meters and are describedto the FDC by the radius. For example: RADIUS 300.

(4) Irregular shaped targets are described using the center of the target, the length, depth,and the attitude (if required).

e. Method of engagement. You may indicate how you want to attack the target. This elementconsists of the type of adjustment, trajectory, ammunition, and distribution. These sub- elementswill all be standard unless you specify otherwise. Nonstandard subelements are DANGERCLOSE and MARK.

(1) The standard adjustment is area fire. If you want precision fire you must request DESTRUCTION.

(2) You announce DANGER CLOSE in the method of engagement if the rounds will impact close to friendly troops. DANGER CLOSE for mortars is 400 meters, forartillery it is 600 meters, and 750 meters for naval gun fire (5 inch).

(3) MARK is included in the method of engagement if you are going to call rounds either to orient yourself or mark targets for ground troops, aircraft, or other fire support.

(4) The standard trajectory is low angle for artillery. If you need high angle fire you must request it. Mortars only fire high angle.

(5) There are several types of ammunition available to the observer. The standard type ofammunition is HE/Q. If HE ammunition is specified in the call-for-fire, HE with fuzeQ will be fired in the adjustment and fire for effect phases. The term "in effect"indicates that the projectile/fuze specified is desired during fire for effect.Nonstandard types of ammunition are specified in the call-for-fire. The observer muststate either a projectile or a fuze. For example, "Shell ICM" (projectile) and "VT inEffect" (fuze). Shells illumination, ICM, and smoke can only be fuzed with fuze time.Therefore, when firing these projectiles, fuze time is understood and need not bespecified.

(6) You can control the distribution (pattern of bursts). The pattern of bursts is called a sheaf. The standard for artillery is the circular sheaf. You may request a converged sheaf, an open sheaf, a parallel sheaf, or a circular sheaf depending which would be the best for your particular target. See figure 3-1. The standard for mortars is the parallel sheaf.

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Figure 3-1. Types of sheafs.

f. Method of fire and control. This element indicates the desired manner of attacking thetarget, whether you want to control the time of delivery of fire, and whether you can observe thetarget.

(1) Method of fire. In area fire, adjustment is normally conducted with one gun. If you feel you need more than one gun, you may request it. Mortars normally adjust with the center tube of the platoon or section.

(2) Method of control. Without controlling measures, the FDC will fire the howitzers when they are ready. This may cause the rounds to burst in the target area at a ragged interval. If you need rounds quickly, you will receive them fastest by not controlling them. Controlling the time to fire and causing the rounds to impact at thetarget simultaneously will cause the greatest shock effect on the target. You can control the timing of the firing by putting the mission at your command or by coordinating the timing.

(a) AT MY COMMAND. If you want to control the time of delivery of the fire, announce, AT MY COMMAND. When the howitzers are ready to fire, theFDC will announce, BATTERY/BATTALION IS READY (they will use thelast letter of the call sign, not the word), OVER. When you are ready, say,FIRE. AT MY COMMAND will remain in effect until you announce CANCELAT MY COMMAND.

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(b) CANNOT OBSERVE. There may be times when you can't see the target because of vegetation, the terrain, the weather, smoke, or maybe incoming fire.You can still fire the mission by announcing, CANNOT OBSERVE.

(c) TIME ON TARGET (TOT). There are times when you will want to control the time of impact of the rounds. You may do this by using a synchronized clock, elapsed time, or an event (e.g., H-Hour). A synchronized clock is established by the senior headquarters and disseminated to all maneuver and firesupport units. It requires periodic time checks to ensure accuracy (e.g., TIMEON TARGET, 0815, OVER). Elapsed time is expressed in relation to thetransmission of a mark (e.g., TIME ON TARGET TEN MINUTES FROM MYMARK). The term MARK is used for artillery, mortars, and naval gunfire. Theterm HACK is used when working with air. To give your mark say,STANDBY FOR MARK . . . 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 MARK OVER.

The timing of fires may be in relation to an event, such as H-Hour. However, you must ensure all concerned agencies know the correct time of H-Hour (e.g.,TIME ON TARGET H+5, OVER).

(d) CONTINUOUS ILLUMINATION. This is a type of fire in which the illuminating projectiles are fired at specified time intervals to provide uninterrupted lighting on the target or specified area. If no interval is given, theFDC will determine the interval by the burning time of the ammunition used. Ifany other interval is required, it is indicated in seconds.

(e) COORDINATED ILLUMINATION. This is a type of fire in which the firing of illuminating and high explosive projectiles is coordinated to provide illumination of the target and surrounding area for spotting and adjusting fires.You may order the interval between illuminating and HE shells in seconds or use normal at my command procedures.

(f) CEASE LOADING. When firing two or more rounds, the command CEASE LOADING is used to stop the loading of rounds into the guns. The gun sections may fire any rounds that are already loaded.

(g) CHECK FIRING. This command is used to cause an immediate halt in firing.Once check firing has been announced, you must give the command CANCELCHECK FIRING in order to resume firing.

(h) CONTINUOUS FIRE. Continuous fire means loading and firing as rapidly and accurately as possible within the prescribed rate of fire for the equipment.Firing will continue until suspended by the command CEASE LOADING orCHECK FIRING.

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(i) REPEAT. Repeat is not sent in the initial call-for-fire, it is used only in theadjustment or fire for effect phase of the mission. In adjustment it means to firethe same data as the last round. In the FFE phase, it means to fire the samenumber of rounds using the same method of fire for effect. Changes may be requested to number of guns, previous corrections, interval, or ammunition.

(j) FOLLOWED BY. This is a part of the term used to indicate a change in the rate of fire, in the type of ammunition, or in another order for fire for effect (e.g., WP FOLLOWED BY HE).

Example: Your target is two BRDM's with what appears to be a platoon of infantrysitting around in small groups apparently eating. You determine the standardadjustment is best, there are no friendlies near, and there is no reason for highangle fire. You want to use ICM in effect, and one round per tube is all youshould need. The standard sheaf will cover the target area. You want therounds as quickly as you can get them, so you will let the FDC control thefiring.

Your third transmission to the FDC will be

TWO BRDM'S WITH DISMOUNTED INFANTRY PLATOON IN OPEN, ICM IN EFFECT, OVER.

FDC will send back

TWO BRDM'S WITH DISMOUNTED INFANTRY PLATOON IN OPEN, ICM IN EFFECT, BREAK, AUTHENTICATE LIMAFOX-TROT, OVER.

You authenticate, and your call-for-fire is complete.

3203. Message to Observer

After receiving the call-for-fire, the fire direction officer determines how the target will beattacked. That decision is announced to you in the form of a message to observer. The messageto observer consists of the unit(s) to fire, any changes to the call-for-fire, number of rounds, andthe target number. The FDC will provide other information, as needed, in the message to theobserver.

a. Units to fire. Units to fire refers to the battery or batteries that will fire the mission. If thebattalion is firing in effect with one battery adjusting, the FDC designates the fire for effect unit(battalion) and the adjusting unit (battery) by the last letter of their call sign, not by name. If theunit that fires the adjustment will be the unit to fire in effect, only that letter will be in the messageto the observer.

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b. Changes to the call-for-fire. Any changes to your requests in your call-for-fire will beannounced.

c. Number of rounds. This is the number of rounds, per weapon, that will be fired in the firefor effect phase of the mission.

d. Target number. A target number is assigned by FDC to each mission to facilitateprocessing subsequent corrections.

e. Other information. There are times you may need additional information that is pertinent tothe mission, such as

(1) Probable error in range. If the probable error in range (PE/R) is 38 meters or greaterduring a normal mission, or 25 meters or greater in a precision mission, the FDC willinform you in the message to observer.

(2) Angle-T. Angle-T is the angle formed at the target by the intersection of the OT line

and the gun target line. When Angle-T is equal to or greater than 500 mils, the FDCshould inform you in the message to observer.

(3) Time of flight. Time of flight is the time it takes the round to reach the target. Thetime of flight is sent on a moving target mission, when adjusting high angle fire, whenfiring shell HE in a coordinated illumination mission, when using BY SHELL AT MYCOMMAND, or when you request the time of flight.

3204. Report Upon Firing

The firing unit will transmit SHOT after each round in adjustment and after the initial round in thefire for effect phase. You must acknowledge each.

The firing unit may also report SPLASH. This informs you that your round will detonate in 5seconds. You may request SPLASH if the FDC doesn't send it. To request a splash, use thetransmission, REQUEST SPLASH, OVER. This would allow you to remain under cover andconcealment while awaiting fires. It also helps you to identify your rounds if other missions arebeing conducted in the same area. There is no requirement to acknowledge SPLASH.

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1. Which of the following provides the six elements of the call-for-fire in the correct transmission order?

a. Observer identification, warning order, target location, target description,method of engagement, and method of fire and control

b. Warning order, observer identification, target location, target description,method of engagement, and method of fire and control

c. Observer identification, warning order, target description, target location,method of fire and control, and method of engagement

d. Warning order, observer identification, target description, target location, method of engagement, and method of fire and control

2. Which transmission will give you a 5 second warning to the impact of the round?

a. "SHOT, OVER"b. "SPLASH, OUT"c. "REQUEST SPLASH, OVER"d. "TIME ON TARGET, OVER"

3. The four elements of the message to observer are the unit to fire, the______________, the ________________, and the target number.

a. number of adjusting rounds, number of FFE roundsb. changes to the call-for-fire, number of rounds in effectc. number of adjusting rounds, number of guns to fired. type of adjusting rounds, type of FFE rounds

4. You are firing two missions at the same time and are into both missions. You are theonly observer on the net. Which is the correct method to use to make corrections?

a. Key the handset and announce your corrections.b. Identify yourself and announce your corrections.c. Identify yourself and the mission number and announce your corrections.d. Identify the mission number and announce your corrections.

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Lesson 3. SPOTTING AND CORRECTIONS

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. Define spotting and corrections.

2. Identify the types of height of burst (HOB) spottings.

3. Determine the types of range spottings.

4. Determine the types of deviation spottings.

5. Determine corrections for unobserved and lost spottings.

6. Determine the deviation and range correction for a given spotting.

7. Determine height of burst corrections.

8. Determine requirements and corrections for fire for effect.

3301. Observation Procedures for Spotting and Corrections

Your primary concern is the placement of timely and accurate fire on targets. The firing unitcannot see the target or where the rounds are landing. You must do this for them by spotting thebursts and making corrections to get rounds on target.

a. Spotting. A spotting is the observer's mental determination of the location of the burst, ormean point of impact of multiple bursts, in relation to the adjusting point as observed along theobserver target line. Spottings are not announced to the FDC except for unobserved or lostspottings. Spottings are made the instant the burst occurs. You should position your binocularsjust below eye level, looking over the top of them with the naked eye until you see the burst, thenraise them and make your spotting. Spottings are made in sequence for height of burst (HOB),range, and deviation.

b. Corrections. Corrections are your estimation of the adjustment necessary to causesubsequent impacts to occur on the target or at the proper height above the target. Yourcorrections will cause subsequent rounds to impact centered on the OT line, at the correct range,and sufficiently above the target to cause maximum effect. Corrections are given in meters and inreverse sequence of spottings: deviation, range, and HOB.

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3302. Height of Burst Spottings (HOB)

HOB spottings are used to determine an increase or decrease in the height of the burst of a roundor rounds. HOB spottings are also used for adjusting air bursts when firing time fuzes. HOBspottings are made to the nearest 1 mil. HOB spottings include: air, graze, mixed, mixed air, andmixed graze.

a. Air. A round or group of rounds that burst in the air.

b. Graze. A round or group of rounds that detonate on impact with the ground.

c. Mixed. A group of rounds that result in an equal number of airbursts and graze bursts.

d. Mixed air. A group of rounds that result in both airbursts and graze bursts with most beingairbursts.

e. Mixed graze. A group of rounds that result in both airbursts and graze bursts with most ofbeing graze bursts.

3303. Range Spottings

Definite range spottings are required to make a proper range adjustment. Normally, a burst on ornear the OT line provides a definite spotting. You can make a definite range spotting when theburst is not on or near the OT line by using your knowledge of the terrain. The observer must usecaution and good judgement when making such spottings (fig 3-2). Possible range spottings areover, short, range correct, target, and doubtful.

Figure 3-2. Range spottings.

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a. Over. A round that detonates beyond the target or adjusting point is spotted as over.

b. Short. A round that detonates between you and the target (or adjusting point) is calledshort.

c. Range correct. This is when the round impacts at the correct range.

d. Target. This is when the round detonates on the target. (This does not happen very oftenin area fire, you will use this most in precision fire.)

e. Doubtful. Doubtful is a round that detonates so far left or right of the target that a definiterange spotting cannot be made.

3304. Deviation Spottings

A deviation spotting is the measurement left or right of the OT line. You measure the deviation(as you learned in Lesson 2) with your binoculars (or other angle-measuring means) to the nearest5 mils for area fire or 1 mil for precision fire. Deviation spottings are measured from the center ofthe burst to the center of the target (fig 3-3). Possible deviation spottings are line, (so many mils)left, or (so many mils) right.

Figure 3-3. Deviation spottings.

a. Line. A spotting of line means the burst was on the OT line.

b. Left or right. If the burst is to the left or right of the OT line you spot the distance, then thedirection. For instance, if you measure the burst 20 mils to the left of the OT line, your spottingwould be 20 LEFT.

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3305. Unobserved and Lost Spottings

a. Unobserved spottings. At times you may be able to make a spotting even though you areunable to see the round impact. For instance, you may hear the round impact but not be able tosee it. By knowing the terrain, you determine that the only place the round could have impactedwithout being seen is in a draw beyond the target. If you have to take cover from incoming fire orif smoke or dirt obstruct the target area, your visibility may be temporarily impaired causing youto be unable to make a definite spotting. You may also be unable to make an accurate spottingbecause you can't determine which round, among several, is yours. Unobserved spottings arereported to the FDC followed by the appropriate command to take corrective action. Forinstance, you might say UNOBSERVED, REPEAT, OVER.

b. Lost spottings. If you are unable to locate the round (either visually or by sound), yourspotting is LOST. Rounds may be lost for several reasons, including fuze malfunction (dud), theterrain or weather prevents you from seeing or hearing the round impact, or errors by the firingunit. When a round is lost, positive action must be taken. The first action you must take is to letthe FDC know that the round was lost. Then you check the target location data and call-for-fire.If there are no errors, then request the firing unit to check their data. If there are no computationerrors or errors on the gun line, you must then request REPEAT or SHELL WP, REPEAT. Youmay want to request a 200 meter airburst with HE or Smoke or you may want to make a boldshift. The location of friendly positions could dictate the action you take. If these correctiveactions fail, send END OF MISSION and a new call-for-fire.

3306. Deviation and Range Corrections

a. Deviation corrections. You have learned that deviation spottings are measured in mils.You have also learned that you send corrections to the FDC in meters. We do this byremembering that 1 mil at a range of 1000 meters equals 1 meter. For corrections, we convertmils to meters by using the observer to target (OT) factor. The OT factor is the distance fromyou to the target expressed in thousands. For example, if the range is 2500 meters, the OT factorwould be 2. To determine the OT factor, you must divide the range by 1000 then round off theresult by using what we call artillery expression.

Artillery expression is a rule of rounding that requires you, when the number to be rounded is 5,to round to the nearest even number. In other words, to determine the OT factor with a range of3500, you divide it by 1000 to get a dividend of 3.5. To make this a whole number, you useartillery expression and round to the nearest even number which, in this case, would give you anOT factor of 4. Additionally, when the number to be rounded is 4 or less, you round down. Ifthe number is 6 or more, you round up. If the range to your target is less than 1000 meters, youdo not round up to a whole number, you use the fraction. For example, if your range to yourtarget is 800 meters, then, 800 divided by 1000 equals .8, so your OT factor stays at .8. If therange is 740, you will round the dividend of .74 to .7, but not to 1 (fig 3-4).

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RIGHT 250 250L 1 1000 6

RIGHT 30 45L 0.7 700 5

LEFT 40 20R 2 1500 4

RIGHT 160 55L 3 3400 3

RIGHT 200 100L 2 2500 2

LEFT 180 45R 4 4000 1

DEVIATION CORRECTION

SPOTTING

OT FACTOR

OT DISTANCE EXAMPLE

Figure 3-4. OT factor.

Note: OT distances of 1500 and 2500 meters are expressed to the nearest even OTfactor.

Deviation corrections are determined by multiplying the number of mils of deviation by the OTfactor. Remember, corrections are sent in the reverse sequence of spottings. If your deviationspotting is 30 RIGHT and the range to your target is 2900 meters, the correction you will send tothe FDC is LEFT 90 (30 mils X 3 (OT Factor) = 90). The spotting is to the right of the target soyou correct to the left.

b. Range corrections. Range corrections are your estimation of the distance the round mustmove, in meters, to make it range correct. Range corrections are given as ADD or DROP somany meters. If a round is spotted as "short," you add. If it is spotted as "over," you woulddrop. Again, your corrections are reverse of your spottings. If you are using laser rangefinders,you determine the range correction by comparing the range to the target and the range to theburst (determined by using the LR), and add or drop the difference. This is the one roundadjustment method of corrections. If you are not using lasers, you need to use a bracketingmethod of range correction, which you will learn in the next lesson. When announcing rangecorrections to the FDC you say, ADD (or DROP) 400, OVER. The distance is understood to bein meters by the FDC.

3307. Height of Burst Corrections

Correcting HOB is basically the same as correcting deviation. You take the number of mils theburst is measured above the target and multiply it by the OT factor to determine the height ofburst in meters. The optimal height of burst for a round with a time fuze is 20 meters. HOBspottings are measured to the nearest mil and corrections are given as UP or DOWN to thenearest 5 meters. It is not unusual to get a "graze" burst on the first round with a time fuze.When this happens, there is an automatic correction you send of UP 40. You give an UP 40correction no matter how many graze bursts are spotted until you achieve an airburst. If your firstround is an airburst, and after a subsequent DOWN correction the next round is a graze, then youwould send a correction of UP 20 instead of UP 40. The rule to remember is for a graze burstwithout a previous airburst send UP 40. For a graze burst with a previous airburst send UP 20.

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3308. Sequence of Subsequent Corrections

So far, you have learned how to draft a call-for-fire, receive and interpret the message toobserver, spot a burst, and turn that spotting into a correction. Now that you have a correction tosend to the FDC, you need to know what sequence to send it in. You know that the sequence forcorrection of spottings is deviation, range, and height of burst, but there are other corrections youcould or may have to send during your fire mission. The sequence to send subsequent correctionshas its own format which cannot be deviated from.

From the possible corrections, you use only those that are required. Direction is the key elementfor adjusting rounds onto the target. Direction must precede all other subsequent corrections. Inartillery and mortars, when using the grid method of target location, direction is sent after youreceive the message to observer but before, or with, your first correction. In naval gunfire,direction is part of your initial call-for-fire. There are 15 elements that could be corrected, orchanged, and they must be corrected in the following sequence:

a. Direction. If the direction to your target changes 100 mils, or more, from the initialdirection you sent to FDC, you must send a new direction. For example, "DIRECTION 4650."

b. Danger close. If your initial call-for-fire didn't warrant a danger close call, but a subsequentcorrection will put you in a danger close situation, it is announced before any other correctionsare given. If your subsequent corrections take you out of a danger close situation, announceCANCEL DANGER CLOSE.

c. Trajectory. If you need to switch to high-angle fire, or if the initial call-for-fire statedhigh-angle but low-angle would be effective, it is announced now.

d. Method of fire. This element is rarely changed during a mission, but if you want to changefrom one gun in adjustment to a platoon (left or right), now is when you would do it.

e. Distribution. If your target posture changes during the mission, change the distribution sothe sheaf will have the best effect on target. For example, "LINEAR."

f. Projectile. If you want to change the type of projectile, you would announce the changehere.

g. Fuze. If you want to change the type fuze, you would announce the change here.

h. Volume. When you need to change the number of rounds, you would announce that here.

i. Deviation. Although this is the first spotting you correct, it is not the first subsequentcorrection you send if any of the elements need changing. If no deviation correction is needed,

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omit it. Deviation corrections of less than 30 meters are not sent to the FDC except during aprecision fire mission.

j. Range. If no range correction is needed, this element is omitted.

k. Height of burst. This element is used only when using time fuzes, and is omitted when notneeded.

l. Target description. A new target description is sent when you want to attack another targetwithout sending a new call-for-fire or when your current target description changes substantially.

m. Change in type mission/control. Besides being types of fire missions, fire for effect andadjust fire are also considered as methods of control. You would request ADJUST FIRE here ifyou were going from an immediate suppression or suppression mission to a neutralizationmission. This is also where you could announce, AT MY COMMAND, or CANCEL, AT MYCOMMAND.

n. Splash. When you are having trouble identifying your rounds in the target area because ofother rounds, or if you can't observe your target constantly, announce REQUEST SPLASH. TheFDC will transmit SPASH, OVER 5 seconds before the round impacts. This notifies you to lookat your target area in order to see the burst. Splash is cancelled by announcing CANCEL,SPLASH.

o. Repeat. If you want another round fired at the same data as the last one, or if you want thefire for effect repeated because it was insufficient, announce REPEAT. You can give correctionsto other elements for the fire for effect and request REPEAT if you want the same number andtype of rounds fired with the new data.

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1. Spotting is defined as

a. an estimation of the adjustment necessary to cause subsequent impacts to occuron the target or at the proper height above the target.

b. an estimation of the adjustment necessary to cause subsequent impacts to occuron the target.

c. a measurement of the impact of the round in relation to the target and the OTline for deviation, range, and HOB.

d. a measurement of the impact of the round in relation to the target and the OTline for HOB, range, and deviation.

2. Which is the definition for corrections?

a. Estimation of the adjustment necessary to cause subsequent impacts to occur onthe target or at the proper height above the target

b. Estimation of the adjustment necessary to cause subsequent impacts to occur onthe target

c. Measurement of the impact of the round in relation to the target and the OTline for deviation, range, and HOB

d. Measurement of the impact of the round in relation to the target for range andheight of burst

3. You spot an impacting rounds RANGE CORRECT, 50 LEFT. Your distance to thetarget is 3500 meters. What is your correction?

a. LEFT 200, OVER c. RIGHT 200, OVERb. RIGHT 150, OVER d. LEFT 150, OVER

4. You spot a round as AIR 10. Your distance to the target is 1450 meters. What isyour correction?

a. REPEAT, OVER c. ADD 10, OVERb. DOWN 10, OVER d. UP 10, OVER

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Matching: For items 5 through 12, match the observation in column 1 with the correct spotting in column 2. Place your responses in the spaces provided.

Column 1 Column 2

Observation Spotting

___ 5. The impact occurs beyond a. leftthe target b. right

___ 6. The impacts occur half on c. linethe ground, half in the air d. over

___ 7. The impact occurs to the e. shortfront of the target f. range correct

___ 8. The impact occurs with g. doubtful two on the ground and h. lost four in the air i. air

___ 9. The impact occurs left j. grazeof the OT line k. mixed

___ 10. The impacts occur with l. mixed air four on the ground and m. mixed graze two in the air___ 11. The impact occurs beyond

the target, on the vertical line___ 12. The impacts occur to the

right of the target

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Lesson 4. ADJUSTMENT AND FIRE FOR EFFECT

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. Define the four types of adjustment techniques.

2. Determine the correct adjustment in successive bracketing, given a situation.

3. Identify the situation for which you would use hasty bracketing.

4. Identify when you may use the one round adjustment method, given a situation.

5. Identify a situation for which you need to use the creeping fire method.

6. Determine when the "ping-pong effect" may affect adjustments.

7. Determine the proper time to enter the fire for effect phase of the mission.

8. Determine the results of the FFE, given a situation.

9. Determine the proper commands to request additional fires.

10. Identify the proper procedure for ending the mission.

3401. Adjustment Techniques

There are four techniques that can be used to conduct area adjustment fires. These are successive bracketing, hasty bracketing, one-round adjustment, and creeping fire.

a. Successive bracketing. Successive bracketing is best for an inexperienced observer or whenprecise adjustment is required, such as for precision registrations and destruction missions. Thismethod mathematically ensures that FFE rounds will be within 50 meters of the target.

b. Hasty bracketing. Hasty bracketing is best for an experienced observer when responsivefires are needed.

c. One-round adjustment. One-round adjustment provides the most responsive fires butrequires an experienced observer or an observer equipped with a laser rangefinder.

d. Creeping fire. Creeping fire is used for danger close missions. Upon completion of eachmission, you must send refinement data and surveillance. The FDC can determine effectiveness offires from this surveillence.

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3402. Successive Bracketing

After the first definite range spotting (either over or short) you send a correction to establish abracket (one round over and one round short). Once a bracket is established, you successivelysplit this bracket in half in multiples of 100 meter increments. Normally, you would start with anADD (or DROP) 400 and split that in half on the next round DROP (or ADD) 200. Next, splitthat again ADD (or DROP) 100. Once you have a 100 meter bracket the next split willmathematically put the round within 50 meters of the target so you would send ADD (or DROP)50, FIRE FOR EFFECT, OVER. You may start with an 800 meter bracket if you need to; but ifyour first correction is large, this could indicate an error in your OT factor. Remember, rangecorrections should be 800, 400, or 200 so they can be split in even 100 meter increments.

Example: The first round after your call-for-fire is spotted as OVER, 80 LEFT. Your OTfactor is 2. The first correction you should send would be RIGHT 160, DROP400, OVER. You spot the next round as SHORT, 15 RIGHT. The correctionfor this round would be LEFT 30, ADD 200, OVER. You spot the round asOVER, 5 LEFT. The correction would be DROP 100, OVER. You spot theround as OVER, 5 LEFT. The correction would be DROP 50, FIRE FOREFFECT, OVER.

3403. Hasty Bracketing

Experience has shown that effectiveness on the target decreases as the number of rounds used inadjustment increases. This is due to the loss of surprise. An alternative to successive bracketingis hasty bracketing. If the nature of the target dictates that fires are needed in less time thansuccessive bracketing would take, you need to use hasty bracketing. The success of hastybracketing depends on a thorough terrain analysis to give you an accurate initial target location.You make a bracket with your first correction and use this as a yardstick to determine your nextcorrection. You then send the correction and FIRE FOR EFFECT.

Example: Your initial round impacts over the target. You spot it as OVER, 40 RIGHT.Your OT factor is 3. You send a correction of LEFT 120, DROP 200, OVER.The next round is spotted as SHORT, 10 LEFT. You now have a 200 meterbracket. From your spotting you determine the first round was twice as farfrom the target as the last round, so you send RIGHT 30, ADD 50, FFE,OVER. This puts you within 50 meters of your target.

3404. One-Round Adjustment

With this method you do not establish a bracket. You spot the initial round, then you determineand transmit the correction necessary to move the round onto the target and fire for effect. Thistechnique can be used when insufficient time exists for adjustment, when you are equipped with alaser rangefinder, or when continued adjustment of fire may endanger you.

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Example: Your initial round impacts short of the target. You spot it as SHORT, 35LEFT. You had estimated the target to be 1200 meters. By usingflash-to-bang, you have determined the burst to be 1100 meters (you don't havea MULE or AN/GVS-5). Your correction would be RIGHT 30, ADD 100,FIRE FOR EFFECT, OVER.

3405. Creeping Fire

Creeping fire is used only during Danger Close missions. You make range corrections of 100meters, or less, to "creep" the rounds onto the target so you don't endanger friendly positions.You must know the location of friendly positions in relation to your target. Their safety is yourresponsibility! All guns that will fire the FFE phase will also fire during adjustment when you usecreeping fires.

3406. Effects on Adjustments

You have learned that the FDC will, or should, notify you if the Angle-T is greater than 500 milsor if the probable error in range (PE/R) is 38 meters or greater. They should inform you of this asit could have an effect on your adjustment.

a. Angle-T. Angle-T is the angle formed at the target by the intersection of the observertarget (OT) line and the gun target (GT) line (fig 3-5).

Figure 3-5. Angle-T.

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When the Angle-T is small, your deviation and range corrections correspond to the firing unit'sdeviation and range corrections. When the Angle-T is greater than 500 mils, your deviationcorrections become the firing unit's range corrections and your range corrections become theirdeviation corrections. This has a significant effect on your adjustment. When notified that theAngle-T is greater than 500 mils, you should continue making corrections in the usual manneruntil they are not having the proper effect (for example, a right 200 correction appears to shiftright 300). You must adjust your corrections proportionately to compensate (cut your correctionsin half or thirds) for this error.

Note: When Angle-T is greater than 500 mils, you will observe PE/R as part ofdeviation spotting. You may expect to observe a ping-pong effect, anytimethat the Angle-T is 500 mils or greater. When PE/R of 38 or greater andAngle-T is 500 mils or greater are combined, you will see a pronouncedping-pong effect. To minimize the effect on your adjustment, you can cut yourdeviation corrections or you can request two guns adjust to get an average ofthe spotting.

b. Dispersion and PE/R. Dispersion is the term for the fact that no two rounds will impactexactly in the same spot, even though they are fired from the same tube with identical powder,projectile, data, etc. The FDC measures dispersion in units called probable errors. If you were tofire 100 identical rounds from the same howitzer with the same data, same weather conditions,etc., the rounds would impact in an elliptical pattern similar to the illustration in figure 3-6.

Figure 3-6. Dispersion pattern.

To measure dispersion, a box containing 100 percent of the rounds fired at the same data isassumed. Of the 100 percent, 50 percent will land over the target and 50 percent short of thetarget. The amount that the rounds will land over or short is called one PE/R. For any weaponsystem, dispersion increases as the weapon nears its maximum range for a powder charge. Asyou can see in the figure, the greatest errors are in range. If the FDC reports PE/R 38, they meanthat rounds fired at the target may land somewhere between 38 meters over or short of the GT

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line. They announce the PE/R to prevent you from attempting to correct the impact caused bynatural dispersion.

3407. Fire for Effect

The purpose of area fire is to cover the target area with fire so the greatest effects on the targetcan be achieved. The type and amount of ammunition you have requested depends on the type oftarget, its posture, and its activity. The fire for effect phase of an adjust fire mission is enteredwhen the deviation, range, and height of burst (if necessary) have been corrected to provideeffects on target. This would be when the adjusting round has effects on target, or when splittinga 100 meter bracket, or when splitting a 200 meter bracket if the PE/R is 38 or greater.Remember, you will be adjusting with HE/Quick (unless you requested something else) fordeviation and range. You enter the fire for effect stage by giving your corrections andannouncing FIRE FOR EFFECT.

If you have requested, or the FDC informed you that you will receive time in effect, you mustadjust the height of burst before requesting FFE. When you split the 100 meter bracket, yourequest TIME, ADD (or DROP) 50, OVER. Then you adjust HOB. After you receive time, youdo not make any more range or deviation corrections. Once you receive a measureable airburst,you send any correction necessary to achieve a 20 meter HOB and request FFE. For example,your last correction was TIME, ADD 50, OVER. You spot the next round as AIR 20, with anOT factor of 2. You would send DOWN 20, FIRE FOR EFFECT, OVER. You do not have tofire for effect from a graze burst or if the HOB correction is greater than 40 meters.

3408. Obtaining Additional Fire

After you fire for effect, you may determine that additional rounds are needed on the same ordifferent location. If your FFE was on target, but additional rounds are needed, announceREPEAT, OVER. If the location of fire needs to be moved to achieve satisfactory results, youannounce the appropriate corrections and REPEAT. For example, RIGHT 40, ADD 100,REPEAT, OVER.

3409. End of Mission (EOM)

After all rounds have landed, there are two things you must do. First you must decide what classof FFE was achieved, then you must take action on it. The action you take is easily rememberedby the acronym RREMS. RREMS stands for refinement, record as target, end of mission, andsurveillence. Refinement is the final corrections needed to move the mean point of impact ontothe target. Record as target is sent when you want the FDC to retain the target's plot for futureuse as a point to shift from. End of mission is transmitted to end the fire mission. Surveillance isyour assessment of the damage inflicted by the FFE. Your surveillance must be accurate as tonumbers of vehicles damaged or destroyed and body counts when available. You also report thesurviving enemies actions (e.g., dispersing to the north). Your FFE will fall into one of fourcategories. These are listed with the actions you must take for each.

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a. Accurate and sufficient. This means that the mean point of impact of the rounds were ontarget and the volume of fire was sufficient to have the desired effect. If you want the FDC torecord the target, announce RECORD AS TARGET, END OF MISSION, 2 BRDM'SDESTROYED, ESTIMATE 6 CASUALTIES, OVER. If you don't want the target to berecorded, omit RECORD AS TARGET.

b. Inaccurate but sufficient. This means the volume of fire was sufficient but the mean point ofimpact was not on target. You must give refinement before ending the mission. For example, ifyou spot your fire for effect as RANGE CORRECT, 10 RIGHT and your OT factor is 2, youwould send LEFT 20, END OF MISSION, TARGET NEUTRALIZED, ESTIMATE 10CASUALTIES, OVER. If you want to record as a target, announce RECORD AS TARGETafter the refinement and before the end of mission.

c. Inaccurate and insufficient. This means that not only was the mean point of impact off thetarget, but also the volume was not sufficient to have the desired effect on target. You mustmake corrections onto the target (refinement) and request REPEAT. If this gives the desiredeffect, you then end the mission and give your surveillence.

d. Accurate but insufficient. This simply requires a REPEAT until the desired effects areachieved.

When ending a fire mission, you must follow the sequence of RREMS to be correct, particularly ifyou want to record the target. When the FDC hears EOM they clear the computer for the nextmission and your mission data is lost. Sending surveillance marks the end of the fire mission andyou are ready to engage another target.

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Matching: For items 1 through 4, match the adjusting technique in column 1 with its correct definition in column 2. Place your responses in the spaces provided.

Column 1 Column 2

Technique Definintion

___ 1. Successive bracketing a. Will not attempt to establish a bracket___ 2. Hasty bracketing b. The best method for an experienced___ 3. One round adjustment observer___ 4. Creeping fires c. The best method for an

inexperienced observerd. Pick an alternate aiming point and adjust with corrections of 100 meters or less

Situation: You spot the initial round as SHORT, 10 RIGHT. You have estimated therange to the target as 3600 meters. Your OT factor is 4.

5. Based on the above situation, what would your correction be using successive bracketing?

a. LEFT 10, ADD 100 c. LEFT 40, UP 400b. SHORT, 10 RIGHT d. LEFT 40, ADD 400

6. You are performing creeping fires. The rounds have impacted at an alternate adjusting point and you spot them as RANGE CORRECT, LINE. You have determined the distance to the target as 600 meters. You have determined the distance to the alternate adjusting point as 800 meters. What is your correction?

a. LEFT 100, DROP 250 c. DROP 100b. DROP 200 d. LEFT 100, DROP 100

7. Which transmission from the FDC would cause you to consider "ping-pong" in your adjustment?

a. Angle-T 150, PE/R 25 c. Angle-T 500, PE/R 38b. Angle-T 350, PE/R 38 d. Angle-T 400

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8. In an adjust fire mission, using successive bracketing, you have sent a correction of LEFT 30, DROP 100. The round was fired and you spot the burst as SHORT LINE.What would your correction be?

a. ADD 50, OVER c. FFE, OVERb. ADD 50, FFE, OVER d. DROP 50, OVER

Situation: You are conducting an adjust fire mission using hasty bracketing. Your firstround was spotted as OVER, 50 RIGHT. You gave a correction of LEFT 100, DROP 200.Your next spotting was SHORT, 10 RIGHT. You determined the last round was an equaldistance short of the target as the first round was over so you send ADD 100, FIRE FOREFFECT, OVER. You spot the mean point of impact of your FFE rounds as SHORT, 10RIGHT.

9. What is the result of the fire for effect in the situation above?

a. Accurate and sufficientb. Inacurate and insufficientc. Accurate and insufficientd. Inaccurate and sufficient

10. To end the mission, which should you send?

a. Refinement, record as target, end of mission, and surveillanceb. Record as target, refinement, end of mission, and surveillancec. Refine, record, estimate, and repeatd. Record as target, end of mission, and estimate casualties

UNIT SUMMARY

In this study unit, you learned how to conduct fire missions. You now have the basic knowledgenecessary to call for adjusting and reporting the results of fires on target using artillery or mortars.

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Solution Reference

1. a. 3101b2. c. 3101a3. b. 3101c4. c. 31045. c. 3103a6. c. 31057. b. 3106


Solution Reference

1. a. 32022. c. 32043. b. 32034. d. 3201a (1)


Solution Reference

1. d. 3301a2. a 3301b3. c. 33064. d. 33075. d. 3303b6. k. 3302c7. e. 3303b8. l. 3302d9. a. 3304b10. m. 3302e11. c. 3304a12. b. 3304b

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Solution Reference

1. c. 3402a2. b. 34033. a. 34044. d. 34055. d. 34026. c. 34037. c. 3406a8. b. 34029. d. 340910. a. 3409

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BASIC FORWARD OBSERVATION PROCEDURES

REVIEW LESSON

INSTRUCTIONS: The purpose of the review lesson is to prepare you for your final examination.We recommend that you try to complete your review lesson without referring to the text, but forthose items (questions) you are unsure of, restudy the text. When you have finished your reviewlesson and are satisfied with your responses, check your responses against the answers providedat the end of this review lesson examination.

Select the ONE answer which BEST completes the statement or answers the item. Formultiple-choice items, circle your response. For matching items, place the letter of your responsein the space provided.

1. Which are the three types of indirect fire support?

a. Naval gunfire, howitzers, close air supportb. Howitzers, naval gunfire, mortarsc. Mortars, howitzers, tanksd. Howitzers, mortars, close air support

Matching: For items 2 through 4, match the type of indirect fire support in column 1 withthe characteristics that best describe it in column 2. Selections in column 2 may be usedmore than once.

Column 1 Column 2

Indirect Fire Support Characteristics

___ 2. Naval gunfire a. Low trajectory, medium artillery, high rate___ 3. Howitzers of fire___ 4. Mortars b. Light artillery, high rate of fire, high

trajectoryc. Medium trajectory, medium artillery,

massed firesd. High trajectory, low rate of fire, light

artillery

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Matching: For items 5 through 7, match the member of the gunnery team in column 1 withthe duties that best describe his job in column 2. Selections in column 2 may be used morethan once.

Column 1 Column 2

Member Duty

___ 5. Observer a. Coordinates the fires of different ___ 6. Fire direction center supporting arms___ 7. Firing element b. Locates and identifies targets to the firing

unitc. Receives call-for-fire and translates it into

firing datad. Fires the rounds as directed

8. The duties of the fire support coordinator (FSC) include

a. monitoring command and fire nets to coordinate the fire support assets and use them to their best advantage.

b. instructing observers when to fire targets of opportunity.c. maintaining radio discipline during fire missions.d. determining firing data for supporting arms.

9. Marine Corps units designate targets using

a. observer target numbers.b. an assigned block of two letters and four numbers.c. two numbers and four letters.d. individual unit designators.

10. What are the two types of targets?

a. Priority targets and targets of opportunityb. On-call targets and scheduled targetsc. Planned targets and targets of opportunityd. Planned targets and on-call targets

11. What are three types of planned targets?

a. Priority targets, on-call targets, and targets of opportunityb. Priority targets, targets of opportunity, and on-call targetsc. Priority targets, planned targets, and scheduled targetsd. Priority targets, scheduled targets, and on-call targets

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12. A known point is

a. any target with its map location known to the supporting arms.b. any point on the ground which is known to the supporting arms.c. any point on the ground or map with its location known to the observer and the

FDC.d. a previously fired target or hill top.

Matching: For items 13 through 15, match the desired effect of artillery fires in column 1with the definition that best describes it in column 2. Selections in column 2 may be usedmore than once. After the corresponding item number on the answer sheet, blacken theappropriate circle.

Column 1 Column 2

Effect Definition

___ 13. Destruction a. Target temporarily ceases activity, requires___ 14. Neutralization high ammunition expense___ 15. Suppression b. At least 30 percent personnel casualties,

requires high ammunition expensec. At least 10 percent personnel casualties,

requires low ammunition expensed. At least 30 percent personnel casualties,

requires minimum ammunition expense

16. What are the five types of artillery shells?

a. HC, FASCAM, ICM, HE, and Illumb. WP, HE, Smoke, Illum, and ICMc. ICM, Smoke, Illum, WP, and HEd. HE, HC, WP, Smoke, and Illum

17. What are the four types of HE fuzes?

a. Delay, VT, Ti, and Quickb. PD, Quick, Ti, and Delayc. Ti, Delay, VT, and PDd. PD, Quick, Ti, and VT

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Matching: For items 18 through 22, match the type of artillery shell in column 1 with thedescription that best identifies its proper usage in column 2. Selections in column 2 may beused more than once. After the corresponding number on the answer sheet, blacken theappropriate circle.

Column 1 Column 2

Shell Description

___ 18. HE a. Can be used to start fires, or for screening___ 19. WP b. Used for screening and obscuration___ 20. Smoke c. Is more effective against personnel than ___ 21. ICM other types___ 22. Illumination d. Is versatile when used with different fuzes

e. Is used to observe the battlefield

23. To orient yourself to the target area, you must first ____________, then ___________, and _____________.

a. establish your position, establish direction, locate your targetsb. establish direction, establish your location, locate your targetsc. establish your location, locate your target, determine directiond. establish direction, locate your targets, establish your position

24. Which of the following is a terrain sketch?

a. A reference tool for determining directions within the target areab. A technically correct representation of the target area from your viewpointc. A precise record of targets you have locatedd. A sketch of targets and known points you can see

25. What is an OF fan used for?

a. Determining directions to known points on a mapb. Determining directions to targets on a mapc. Locating targets on a mapd. Locating known points on a map

26. What are two methods for measuring angles between objects?

a. Hand measurement or binocular reticle patternb. Directional instrument or estimatingc. Leapfrogging or hasty measurementd. Directional instrument or binocular reticle pattern

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27. You measure an azimuth of 1430 to a target using your lensatic compass. Thedeclination diagram shows a GM angle of (magnetic left) 140 mils. What is thetarget direction?

a. 1290 c. 1570b. 1430 d. 1750

28. What are the two quickest methods for measuring angles between objects?

a. Leapfrogging or hasty measurementb. Directional instrument or hand measurementc. Leapfrogging or binocular reticle patternd. Hasty measurement or binocular reticle pattern

29. In the illustration below, what is the angle between the vertex and the target?

a. 3 mils c. 30 milsb. 3.5 mils d. 35 mils

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30. Using the illustration below, determine the distance to the target. You havedetermined your target to be located at the narrowest point of the saddle. What is thedistance to the target?


31. When you observe an enemy crew-served weapon firing, you see the muzzle flashand count 4 seconds until you hear the report of the weapon. What is the distance to

the target?


32. You have observed a target to the right of a known point. The distance to the knownpoint is 1500 meters. You measured the angle between the two points to be 50 mils.What is the lateral distance from the known point to the point on the right?


Situation: Determine your answers to items 33 through 35 based upon the informationgiven and the illustrations on the next page.

Illustration 1 on the next page is your oriented map and OF fan with target AF2010 plottedat grid 316808. The direction to AF2010 is 2170, the distance is 4300. The contourinterval is 20 meters.

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Illustration 1.

Illustration 2 is your observation of your target, a stopped tank. The blockhouse onwhich you have your reticle oriented is Target AF2010. You have measured the flash to bang to the tank as 12 seconds.

Illustration 2.

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33. What is the grid to the target?

a. 313806 c. 318802b. 316811 d. 321810

34. Which is the correct polar plot of the target?

a. DIRECTION 2250, DISTANCE 4200b. DIRECTION 2090, DISTANCE 4200c. DIRECTION 2250, DISTANCE 3600d. DIRECTION 2090, DISTANCE 3600

35. What is the shift from known point 1 to the target?

a. DIRECTION 2170, RIGHT 320 DROP 100b. DIRECTION 2250, LEFT 320, ADD 100c. DIRECTION 2090, LEFT 320, DROP 100d. DIRECTION 2250, RIGHT 340, DROP 100

36. Spotting is most correctly defined as

a. an estimation of the adjustment necessary to cause subsequent impacts to occur onthe target or at the proper height above the target.

b. a mental determination of the impact of the round in relation to the target and OT line for HOB, range, and deviation.

c. a measurement of the impact of the round in relation to the OT line for deviation andHOB.

d. an estimation of the adjustment necessary to cause subsequent impacts to occur onthe target.

37. Which is the correct definition for corrections?

a. Estimation of the adjustment necessary to cause subsequent impacts to occur on the target or at the proper height above the target

b. Measurement of the impact of the round in relation to the target for range and HOBc. Measurement of the impact of the round in relation to the target and OT line for

deviation, range, and HOBd. Estimation of the adjustment necessary to cause subsequent impacts to occur on the

target

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38. You spot an impacting round as 50 LEFT. Your distance to the target is 3500 meters.What is your correction?

a. RIGHT 200 c. LEFT 200b. RIGHT 150 d. LEFT 150

39. You spot a round as AIR 10. Your distance to the target is 1450 meters. What is yourcorrection?

a. REPEAT c. ADD 10b. UP 10 d. DOWN 10

40. You observe the round as being past the target and to the left of the vertex. Which is the correct spotting?

a. OVER___LEFT c. OVER___RIGHTb. SHORT___LEFT d. LINE

41. You observe the round left of the vertex and next to the target on the horizontal line.Which is the correct spotting?

a. TARGET c. OVERb. DOUBTFUL d. RANGE CORRECT

42. You observe the round in front of the target and to the right of the vertex. Which is thecorrect spotting?

a. FRONT___RIGHT c. SHORT___RIGHTb. OVER___RIGHT d. UNDER___RIGHT

43. You observe the round beyond the target and left of the vertex. Which is the correctspotting?

a. FRONT___LEFT c. SHORT___LEFTb. OVER___LEFT d. UNDER___LEFT

44. The impacts occur half on the ground, half in the air. Which is the correct spotting?

a. AIR c. MIXED AIRb. GRAZE d. MIXED

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45. The impacts occur with two on the ground and four in the air. Which is the correctspotting?

a. AIR c. MIXED AIRb. MIXED GRAZE d. MIXED

46. The impacts occur with four on the ground and two in the air. Which is the correctspotting?

a. AIR c. MIXED AIRb. MIXED GRAZE d. MIXED

47. The impacts occur to the right of the target, on the horizontal line. Which is the correctspotting?

a. MIXED GRAZE c. MIXED AIRb. RANGE CORRECT, RIGHT d. OVER, RIGHT

Matching: For items 48 through 51, match the adjusting technique in column 1 with itscorrect definition in column 2. Selections in column 2 may be used more than once.

Column 1 Column 2

Technique Definition

48. Successive bracketing a. The best method for an inexperienced49. Hasty bracketing observer50. One round adjustment b. Pick an alternate aiming point and adjust51. Creeping fires with corrections of 100 meters or less

c. Will not attempt to establish a bracketd. Spot and correct for deviation and range

concurrently

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Items 52 through 54 refer to the following situation. Use the illustration below and read thesituation carefully, then answer items 52 through 54.

Situation: You have estimated the range to the target as 1050 meters and counted theflash-to-bang for the impact as 4 seconds.

52. What would be your correction for successive bracketing?

a. RIGHT 250, DROP 400 c. RIGHT 25b. RIGHT 25, DROP 400 d. RIGHT 250

53. What would be your correction for hasty bracketing?

a. RIGHT 250, DROP 400 c. RIGHT 30, DROP 350b. RIGHT 30, DROP 400 d. RIGHT 250, DROP 350

54. What would be your correction for one-round adjustment?

a. RIGHT 250, DROP 400 c. RIGHT 30, DROP 350b. RIGHT 25, DROP 400 d. RIGHT 250, DROP 350

55. What are the maximum range corrections in creeping fires?

a. 100 c. ADD/DROP 50b. 50 d. ADD/DROP 100

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56. You have spotted the first round in offset adjustment as OVER, 35 LEFT. Theflash-to-bang time to the impact is 3 seconds. The target is at direction 1650 and distance1200. The alternate adjusting point is at direction 1800 and distance 1000. What will yournext correction be?

a. RIGHT 150, DROP 200 c. LEFT 150, ADD 200b. LEFT 35, DROP 50 d. LEFT 115, ADD 150

57. Which transmission from the FDC would cause you to consider ping-pong in youradjustment?

a. ANGLE-T 0150, PE/R 25 c. PE/R 38b. ANGLE-T 0500, PE/R 10 d. ANGLE-T 0300

58. You observe a company of infantry dismounting from vehicles. You wish to severelydegrade their combat efficiency without a large ammunition expenditure. Which effect doyou desire from the fire mission?


59. You have observed an enemy fortified gun position which has halted the advance of yourunit and you want to kill it. Which effect do you desire from the fire mission?

a. Immediate suppression c. Destructionb. Suppression d. Neutralization

60. You must temporarily stop an enemy OP from directing fires against your unit's advance.Which effect do you desire from the fire mission?

a. Destruction c. Neutralizationb. Suppression d. Immediate suppression

61. You are engaging an enemy defensive position in order to neutralize it. You have locatedthe target accurately by grid. Which type of fire mission will you conduct?

a. Suppression c. Fire for effectb. Immediate suppression d. Adjust fire

62. Which adjust fire mission is conducted solely to locate the target?

a. Adjust fire c. Creeping fireb. Precision fire d. Area fire

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Matching: For items 63 through 66, match the type of sheaf in column 1 with its correctdefinition in column 2. Selections in column 2 may be used more than once. After thecorresponding number on the answer sheet, blacken the appropriate circle.

Column 1 Column 2

Sheaf Definition

63. Circular a. Forms a pattern of bursts that resemble 64. Open placement in the gun position65. Parallel b. Forms a pattern of bursts in a straight line, 66. Converged separated by an effective burst width

c. Forms a pattern of bursts impacting in a circle

d. Forms a pattern of bursts impacting around the same point

e. Forms a pattern of bursts impacting 50meters apart

67. In which of the four listed situations would you call for a suppression mission?

a. An enemy OP that might direct fires against attacking Marinesb. An enemy machinegun position providing supporting fires against your position

during a counter attackc. An enemy OP directing fires against your defensive positionsd. An enemy reconnaissance patrol scouting your flanks

68. In which of the four listed situations would you call for an immediate suppression mission?

a. An enemy OP directing fires against your defensive positions during an attackb. An enemy OP directing fires against a reconnaissance patrolc. An enemy OP that might direct fires against attacking Marinesd. An enemy OP directing fires against your Marines during an attack

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69. What are the six elements of the call-for-fire in correct transmission order?

a. Warning order, observer identification, target description, target location, method ofengagement, and method of fire and control.

b. Warning order, observer identification, target location, target description, method ofengagement, and method of fire and control.

c. Observer identification, warning order, target description, target location, method ofengagement, and method of fire and control.

d. Observer identification, warning order, target location, target description, method of engagement, and method of fire and control.

70. You are calling for a time on target mission. How do you coordinate the timing with theFDC?

a. Send the mark immediately after you say TIME ON TARGET.b. Send the FDC the time to fire off of you wrist watchc. Send a time mark in relation to H-Hour.d. Announce the time to fire by separate transmission.

71. Which of the below correctly lists the elements of the message to observer.

a. The elements to fire, changes to the call-for-fire number of rounds, and missionnumber

b. The elements to fire, the number of adjusting rounds, the number of FFE rounds, andthe mission number

c. The elements to fire, the type of adjusting rounds, the number and type of FFErounds, and mission number

d. The elements to fire, the adjusting round, the number and type of FFE rounds, andmission number

72. When calling for subsequent adjustments for a mission in which you are one of twoobservers on the net conducting missions, which is the correct method to use?

a. Key the handset and announce your correctionsb. Identify yourself and announce your correctionsc. Identify yourself, the mission number, and announce your correctionsd. Identify the mission number and announce your corrections

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Review Lesson Solutions Reference

1. b. 11012. a. 1102b3. c. 1102c4. b. 1102a5. b. 1201a 6. c . 1201b 7. d . 1201c 8. a. 12049. b. 120410. c. 1203a & b11. d . 1202a (1), (2),(3)12. c. 120513. b . 1301a14. c. 1301b15. a. 1301c16. b. 1302 17. a. 1302a18. d. 1302a19. a. 1302c20. b. 1302d21. c. 1302b22. e. 1302e23. b. 2101a, b, c24. a. 210225. c. 230226. b. 220227. c. 2202b28. d. 220329. d. 2204a30. d. 2302b31. b. 2301b32. d. 230333. a. 240234. a. 240135. d. 240336. b. 3301a37. a. 3301b38. a. 330439. b. 330740. a. 3301a41. d. 3301c42. c. 3301b43. b. 3301b

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Review Lesson Solutions (cont.) Reference

44. d. 3302c45. c. 3302d46. b. 3302e47. b. 3303c48. a. 3401a49. d. 3401b50. c. 3401c51. b. 3401d52. b. 340253. b. 340354. a. 340355. d. 340556. b. 340757. b. 340658. a. 3101b59. c. 3101a60. b. 3101c61. c. 310362. d . 3103a63. c. 3202e(6)64. b. 3202e(6)65. a. 3202e(6)66. d. 3202e(6)67. a. 310568. b . 310669. d . 320270. c. 3202f(2)71. a. 3203f(2)72. b. 3203

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MARINE CORPS INSTITUTECOURSE CONTENT ASSISTANCE REQUEST

08.61 Basic Forward Observation Procedures

Use this form for questions you have about this course. Write out your question(s) and refer tothe study unit, lesson, exercise item, or the review lesson exam item you are having a problemwith. Before mailing, fold the form and staple it so that MCI’s address is showing. Additionalsheets may be attached to this side of the form. Your question(s) will be answered promptly bythe Distance Instructor responsible for this course.

Your Question:

Instructor Response:

NAME

COMPLETE MILITARY ADDRESS (INCLUDE RUC IF KNOWN)

PHONE NUMBER DSN COMMERCIAL (AREA CODE)

RANK MOS

RUC

MARINE CORPS INSTITUTECOURSE EVALUATION QUESTIONNAIRE

MCI 08.61 Basic Forward Observation Procedures

Directions:

This questionnaire is extremely important to the Marine Corps Institute. The course you have justcompleted has undergone extensive development and revision. As an integral part of thecontinued success of this course, YOUR HELP IS NEEDED. By completing this questionnaire,your responses may result in a need to review the course.

Please take five minutes, complete the questionnaire and return it to MCI in the self-addressedenvelop provided with your course materials. Additional comment sheets may be attached to thisquestionnaire. If you want to be contacted by the course instructor, please provide your name,rank, and phone number. Regardless of whether you want to be contacted or not, please enteryour primary military occupational speciality (MOS).

Information About YOU:

Information About the COURSE:

1. How long did it take you to complete this course including the review lesson examination? ___ Less than three hours If more than fifteen hours___ Three to six hours enter number of hours___ Seven to ten hours here: _________ Eleven to fourteen hours

2. Were the learning objectives stated at the beginning of each lesson clear? (Circle your response)

a. Yes b. No

If you circled "NO" please list below the study unit and lesson numberfor those unclear objectives.

Name (Optional) Rank MOS

Telephone Number (Optional)

DSN Commercial (Area Code)

MARINE CORPS INSTITUTECOURSE EVALUATION QUESTIONNAIRE

Information About the COURSE (continued):

3. Did the figures, that is illustrations, photographs, tables, charts, etc., clearly supportthe information/text within the lesson? (Circle your response)

a. Yes b. No

If you circled "NO" please list the figure or table number(s) below.______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______

4. Did the exercise at the end of a lesson or study unit test your skills and knowledgegained by studying the lesson? (Circle your response)

a. Yes b. No

If "NO" please list the exercise question/item number, the lesson number,and the study unit number below. (Attach additional sheet, if necessary)

Question Number Lesson Number Study Unit Number______ ______ ______

5. When you read the lesson the first time, did it make sense to you? (Circle your response)

a. Yes b. No

If "NO" please list the lesson number and/or paragraph number below.______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______

6. Would you recommend that a revision be made to any portion of this course? (Circleyour response)

a. Yes b. No

If "YES", is your recommendation based on (check all that apply):

___ Outdated procedures or process. Enter Study Unit Nos. _______ Outdated equipment or material. Enter Study Unit Nos. _______ Information not accurate. Enter Study Unit Nos. _______ Other (Please describe)

7. Comments: Please attach separate sheet.

MARINE CORPS INSTITUTE--STUDENT REQUEST/INQUIRY-MCI - R-11 (3/96)

MCI 08.61Basic Forward Observation Procedures DATE: _______________

SECTION 1. STUDENT IDENTIFICATION

INSTRUCTIONS: Print or type clearly: (Section 1. Information is needed by MCI to act/respond to input provided in Section 2.SECTION 2. STUDENT REQUEST/INQUIRY

INSTRUCTIONS: Only those sections requiring an action/response from MCI.

AUTHORITY: Title 5, USC, Sec. 301. Use of your Social Security Number is authorized by Executive Order 9397 of 22 Nov 43.PRINCIPAL PURPOSE: The Student Request/Inquiry is used to transmit information concerning student participation in MCI courses.ROUTINE USES: This information is used by MCI personnel to research student inquiries. In some cases information contained therein is used toupdate individual student records maintained by the Marine Corps Institute.

MANDATORY OR VOLUNTARY DISCLOSURE AND EFFECT ON INDIVIDUAL NOT PROVIDING INFORMATION: Disclosure isvoluntary. Failure to provide information may result in the provision of incomplete service to your inquiry. Failure to provide your Social SecurityNumber will delay the processing of your request/inquiry .

RANK FIRST NAME MI. LAST NAME MOS RUC SOCIAL SECURITYNO.

MILITARY ADDRESS (INCLUDE ZIP CODE) (Reservists may use civilian address)

FROM:CHANGE NAME:

RANK:SSN:RUC:

TO:NAME:RANK:SSN:RUC:

The following materials are needed:

Lessons:Manual:Answer Sheets:

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Final Exam Overdue:Lesson sent to MCI on ___________

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basic forward observation procedures

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