Basic Forward Observation Procedures

MCI 0861A
MARINE CORPS INSTITUTE
BASIC FORWARD
OBSERVATION PROCEDURES
MARINE BARRACKS
WASHINGTON, DC
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS
MARINE CORPS INSTITUTE
912 CHARLES POOR STREET SE
WASHINGTON NAVY YARD DC 20391-5680
IN REPLY REFER TO:
1550
Ser 2563
18 Oct 2013
From: Director
To: Marine Corps Institute Student
Subj: BASIC FORWARD OBSERVATION PROCEDURES (MCI 0861A)
1. Purpose. This course will provide instruction for all Marines to properly call for and adjust
indirect fire support.
2. Scope. MCI 0861A introduces Marines to the types of indirect fire support available to the
operating forces, the different means of targeting, and target designations. Instruction is given in
the three methods used to locate targets of opportunity: grid coordinates, polar plot, and shift
from known point. In addition, this course emphasizes conduct of fire missions and
communication procedures utilized by fire support units.
3. Applicability. This course is intended for instructional purposes only. It is designed for use
by all Marines.
4. Recommendations. Comments and recommendations on the contents of the course are

invited and will aid in subsequent course revisions. Please complete the course evaluation
questionnaire at the end of the final examination. Return the questionnaire and the examination
booklet to your proctor.
M. S. REICHENBAUGH
By direction
(This page intentionally left blank.)
Table of Contents
Page
Contents ............................................................................................................................ i
Student Information .......................................................................................................... iii
Study Guide ...................................................................................................................... v
Study Unit 1 Indirect Fire Support ..................................................................... 1-1
Lesson 1 Fire Support Characteristics .......................................................... 1-3

Lesson 2 Fire Support Organization and Targeting .................................... 1-13
Study Unit 2 Target Location ............................................................................. 2-1
Lesson 1 Map/Terrain Association .............................................................. 2-3

Lesson 2 Determining Direction (Azimuth) to Target ................................ 2-11
Lesson 3 Determining Distance ................................................................... 2-25
Lesson 4 Methods of Target Location ......................................................... 2-35
Study Unit 3 Conducting Fire Missions ............................................................. 3-1
Lesson 1 Fire Mission Preparation ............................................................... 3-3

Lesson 2 Fire Missions ................................................................................. 3-27
Lesson 3 Spottings and Corrections ............................................................. 3-35
Lesson 4 Adjustment and Fire for Effect ..................................................... 3-51
Review Lesson Examiniation ........................................................................................... R-1
MCI Course 0861A i

MCI Course 0861A ii

Student Information
Number and MCI 0861A

Title BASIC FORWARD OBSERVATION PROCEDURES
Study Hours 9
Course Text
Materials
Review Agency MAG 31, 2nd MAW

MCAS Beaufort, SC
Reserve 3
Retirement
Credits (RRC)
ACE This course is scheduled for review by the American Council on Education
during 2013.
Assistance For administrative assistance, have your training officer or NCO log on to the
MCI home page at www.mci.usmc.mil. Marines CONUS may call toll free
1-800-MCI-USMC. Marines worldwide may call commercial (202) 685-
7596 or DSN 325-7596.
MCI Course 0861A iii

MCI Course 0861A iv

Study Guide
Congratulations Congratulations on your enrollment in a distance education course from the

Distance Learning and Technologies Department (DLTD) of the Marine
Corps Institute (MCI). Since 1920, the Marine Corps Institute has been
helping tens of thousands of hard-charging Marines, like you, improve their
technical job performance skills through distance learning. By enrolling in
this course, you have shown a desire to improve the skills you have and
master new skills to enhance your job performance. The distance learning
course you have chosen, MCI 0861A, Basic Forward Observation
Procedures, introduces Marines to the types of indirect fire support available
to the Fleet marine Force (FMF), the different means of targeting, and target
designations. Instruction is given in the three methods used to locate targets
of opportunity: grid coordinates, polar plot, and shift from a known point. In
addition, it emphasizes on the conduct of fir emissions and communications
with artillery units.
Your Personal • YOU ARE PROPERLY MOTIVATED. You have made a positive
Characteristics decision to get training on your own. Self-motivation is perhaps the most
important force in learning or achieving anything. Doing whatever is
necessary to learn is motivation. You have it!
• YOU SEEK TO IMPROVE YOURSELF. You are enrolled to

improve those skills you already possess, and to learn new skills. When
you improve yourself, you improve the Corps!
• YOU HAVE THE INITIATIVE TO ACT. By acting on your own,

you have shown 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 your ability to acquire knowledge and skills. You have the
self-confidence to set goals and the ability to achieve them, enabling you
to meet every challenge.
• YOU ARE ABLE TO SET AND ACCOMPLISH PRACTICAL

GOALS. You are willing to commit time, effort, and the resources
necessary to set and accomplish your goals. These professional traits will
help you successfully complete this distance learning course.
Continued on next page
MCI Course 0861A v

Study Guide, Continued
Beginning Your Before you actually begin this course of study, read the student information
Course page. If you find any course materials missing, notify your training officer or
training NCO. If you have all the required materials, you are ready to begin.
To begin your course of study, familiarize yourself with the structure of the
course text. One way to do this is to read the table of contents. Notice the
table of contents covers specific areas of study and the order in which they are
presented. You will find the text divided into several study units. Each study
unit is comprised of two or more lessons and lesson exercises.
Leafing Leaf through the text and look at the course. Read a few lesson exercise
Through the questions to get an idea of the type of material in the course. If the course has
Text additional study aids, such as a handbook or plotting board, familiarize
yourself with them.
The First Study Turn to the first page of study unit 1. On this page, you will find an
Unit introduction to the study unit and generally the first study unit lesson. Study
unit lessons contain learning objectives, lesson text, and exercises.
Reading the Learning objectives describe in concise terms what the successful learner,
Learning you, will be able to do as a result of mastering the content of the lesson text.
Objectives Read the objectives for each lesson and then read the lesson text. As you read
the lesson text, make notes on the points you feel are important.
Completing the To determine your mastery of the learning objectives and text, complete the
Exercises exercises developed for you. Exercises are located at the end of each lesson,
and at the end of each study unit. Without referring to the text, complete the
exercise questions and then check your responses against those provided.
MCI Course 0861A vi

Continuing to Continue on to the next lesson, repeating the above process until you have
March completed all lessons in the study unit. Follow the same procedures for each
study unit in the course.
Preparing for To prepare for your final exam, you must review what you learned in the
the Final Exam course. The following suggestions will help make the review interesting and
challenging.
• CHALLENGE YOURSELF. Try to recall the entire learning sequence

without referring to the text. Can you do it? Now look back at the text to
see if you have left anything out. This review should be interesting.
Undoubtedly, you’ll find you were not able to recall 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 unused minutes of every day.
• APPLY WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNED. It is always best to use the

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 to imagine a situation in
which you would apply this learning. For example make up and solve
your own problems. Or, better still, make up and solve problems that use
most of the elements of a study unit.
• USE THE “SHAKEDOWN CRUISE” TECHNIQUE. Ask another

Marine to lend a hand by asking you questions about the course. Choose
a particular study unit and let your buddy “fire away.” This technique
can be interesting and challenging for both of you!
• MAKE REVIEWS FUN AND BENEFICIAL. Reviews are good

habits that enhance learning. They don’t have to be long and tedious. In
fact, some learners find short reviews conducted more often prove more
beneficial.
MCI Course 0861A vii

Tackling the When you have completed your study of the course material and are confident
Final Exam with the results attained on your Review Lesson exercise, you are ready to
take the final examination. Your training NCO or officer will administer the
final examination either online at www.mci.usmc.mil or by using Form
DP-37 (answer sheet) that is provided in the sealed envelope marked “FINAL
EXAM”. If you use Form DP-37 to take your final examination, your
training NCO or officer will return it to MCI for grading. Ensure you read all
the directions carefully, whether online or on Form DP-37, before taking your
final examination.
Completing The sooner you complete your course, the sooner you can better yourself by
Your Course applying what you’ve learned! HOWEVER--you do have 2 years from the
date of enrollment to complete this course.
Graduating! As a graduate of this distance education course and as a dedicated Marine,

your job performance skills will improve, benefiting you, your unit, and the
Marine Corps.
Semper Fidelis!
MCI Course 0861A viii

STUDY UNIT 1
INDIRECT FIRE SUPPORT
Overview
Scope To effectively use indirect fire support assets, you should have a basic
overview of their characteristics and fire support organization. Before any
Marine employs a weapon, he should have a good understanding of its
operation so that he may use it safely and more effectively. This rule is true
for your use of indirect fire support means as well.
Purpose Upon completion of this study unit, the Marine will be familiar with the
characteristics of indirect fire support and fire support teams.
In This Study The following lessons are in this study unit:

Unit
Lessons See Page

Fire Support Characteristics 1-3
Fire Support Organization and Targeting 1-13
MCI Course 0861A 1-1 Study Unit 1


LESSON 1
FIRE SUPPORT CHARACTERISTICS
Introduction
Scope To provide timely and effective fire support to the maneuver element, an
observer must be familiar with the characteristics and capabilities of the fire
support assets available.
Content This lesson will familiarize the Marine with the fire support assets available
to the forward observer.
Learning Upon completion of this lesson, you should be able to

Objectives
 Identify the four types of indirect fire support assets available to Fleet
Marine Force (FMF) units.
 Identify the characteristics of mortars.
 Identify the characteristics of naval gunfire.
 Identify the characteristics of artillery.
 Identify the characteristics of the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System

(HIMARS).
In This Lesson The following topics are in this lesson:
Topic See Page

Introduction 1-3
Types of Indirect Fire Support 1-4
Characteristics of Mortars 1-5
Characteristics of Naval Gunfire 1-7
Characteristics of Artillery 1-8
Characteristics of HIMARS 1-9
Lesson 1 Exercise 1-11
MCI Course 0861A 1-3 Study Unit 1, Lesson 1

Types of Indirect Fire Support
Learning Point The four types of indirect fire support available to you are mortars, naval
gunfire, howitzers, and HIMARS. Each of these four types of support has its
own characteristics and limitations. You may not always have the choice of
all four assets, but you should know which of them you can select when they
are available. The major differences among the four are their sizes,
trajectories, and firing capabilities.

Characteristics of Mortars
Mortar Sizes Mortars are categorized as light artillery. The following illustrations show the
three types: the 60mm mortar, which is organic to the weapons platoon of
each company; the 81mm mortar, which is organic to the weapons company
of each battalion; and the 120mm towed mortar or expeditionary fire support
system (EFSS), which is organic to the artillery battalion. Because of their
size, these mortars are best suited to attack personnel. They have very limited
usefulness against material targets and require large amounts of ammunition
to attack large personnel targets.
60mm Mortar 81mm Mortar

Characteristics of Mortars, Continued
Mortar A mortar trajectory is characterized by low muzzle velocity and a high

Trajectory trajectory similar to a good punt in football. This means that mortars can be
effective against targets which are entrenched or situated on a reverse slope
and inaccessible to direct fire. It also means that mortar adjustments are not
overly distorted by uneven terrain.
Mortar Firing Mortars have a high rate of fire. They can fire a sustained rate of up to 20
Capabilities 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 and do not mass fires (bring several units to bear on one target
simultaneously). With the exception of the EFSS, resupply becomes an issue;
the Marines in mortar sections must very often carry their weapons and their
ammunition on their backs. Therefore, mortar ammunition is limited and
should be used sparingly.

Characteristics of Naval Gunfire
Naval Surface Naval gunfire currently uses the 5-inch/54 caliber gun mount (caliber on
Fire Support naval guns is determined by dividing the length of the weapon by the
Sizes diameter of its bore) found on ships in the DD-51 and CG-47 class, which are
shown in the illustrations below. Five-inch naval gunfire shells are
comparable to 155mm rounds and are classified as medium artillery.
DDG-51
CG-47
Naval Surface Naval gunfire has a high muzzle velocity and flat trajectory similar to the
Fire Support M16A2 service rifle. This combination makes naval gunfire suitable for both
Trajectory direct or assault fire against material targets that must be penetrated or
destroyed. This also includes material targets that present a vertical face. The
relatively flat trajectory results in a large probable error in range. Therefore,
the dispersion pattern is roughly elliptical. Thus, care must be taken when
firing close to troops.
Naval Surface Naval gunfire ships carry 600 rounds of ammunition per gun, which can be
Fire Support quickly used with naval gunfire’s high rate of fire, 20 rounds per minute
Firing (RPM), in a high intensity environment.
Capabilities

Characteristics of Artillery
Artillery Fire The current Marine Corps inventory utilizes the M777 155mm howitzer
Support Sizes (shown below). The 155mm is classified as medium artillery. Artillery fires
are effective against many targets including armor, hardened structures and
dismounted infantry. Improved munitions allow artillery to lay minefields
and hit precision targets with GPS accuracy.
Artillery Fire A howitzer fires a medium trajectory. It fires more like a long pass than a
Support punt or screen pass. A howitzer can also fire high-angle fires like a mortar or
Trajectory direct fires like a gun, so it is a versatile combat asset.
Artillery Fire Howitzers have a low rate of fire. Although their firing rates vary with each
Support Firing weapon system, they average two to three rounds per minute. This sounds
Capabilities slow, but you must consider the principle of “massed fires”. What this means
to you is the artillery will tailor their fire for effect to meet the target. If you
describe a small target, the artillery battery will attack it with one or two
howitzers. If you describe a large target, the artillery will fire a platoon of
three howitzers.

Characteristics of HIMARS
HIMARS Fire The M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) (shown below)
Support Sizes uses a rocket pod containing either six 227mm M270 series rockets or one
MGM-140 24-inch ATACMS rocket. The versatility of HIMARS
ammunition makes it an ideal choice for missions ranging from precision
targets to large concentrations of personnel or vehicles and even hardened
structures or bunkers.
HIMARS Fire HIMARS fires at a medium to low trajectory depending on the range the
Support target is engaged at.
Trajectory
HIMARS Fire The HIMARS is capable of firing from one to six rockets and can be reloaded
Support Firing in minutes from an accompanying support vehicle. Its main advantage over
Capabilities more conventional fire support assets is its range. Depending on the
ammunition used HIMARS is capable of engaging targets at ranges from 2 to
300 kilometers.


Lesson 1 Exercise
Directions Complete items 1 through 5 by performing the action required. Check your
responses against those listed at the end of this lesson.
Item 1 Which of the following are four types of indirect fire?
a. Naval gunfire, howitzers, close air support, and HIMARS

b. Howitzers, mortars, close air support, and HIMARS
c. Mortars, howitzers, tanks, and HIMARS
d. Howitzers, naval gunfire, mortars, and HIMARS
Item 2 Through Matching: For items 2 through 5, match the type of indirect fire support in
Item 5 column 1 with its characteristics in column 2. Place your responses in the
spaces provided.
Column 1 Column 2
Indirect Fire Support Characteristics
____ 2. Mortars a. High trajectory, low rate of fire,

____ 3. Naval gunfire and light
____ 4. Howitzers artillery b. Flat trajectory, medium artillery,
____ 5. HIMARS and high rate of fire
c. Medium trajectory, medium
artillery, and massed fires
d. Light artillery, high trajectory,
and high rate of fire
e. Medium to low trajectory and
long range, versatile ammunition
MCI Course 0861A 1-11 Study Unit 1, Lesson 1 Exercise

Lesson 1 Exercise, Continued
Answers The table below lists the answers to the exercise items. If you have any
questions about these items, refer to the reference page.
Item Number Answer Reference Page

1 d 1-4
2 d 1-6
3 b 1-7
4 c 1-8
5 e 1-9

LESSON 2
FIRE SUPPORT ORGANIZATION AND TARGETING
Introduction
Scope When using fire support, you will set in motion the actions of a great number
of Marines than you may have initially realized. It takes a well-trained team
to deliver effective fire support to the Marines 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 fire direction
center, and the firing element.
Content This lesson will familiarize the Marine with the fire support team and the
basics of targeting.

Objectives
 Identify duties of the forward observer.
 Identify the duties of the fire direction center (FDC).
 Identify the duties of the firing element.
 Identify the duties of the fire support coordinator (FSC).
 Identify planned targets.
 Identify targets of opportunity.
 Identify the three effects of indirect fire.
 Identify the Marine Corps target numbering system.

Introduction, Continued
Topic See Page

Introduction 1-13
Fire Support Team 1-15
Targets 1-17
Effects of Indirect Fire 1-19
Target Numbering System 1-20

Fire Support Team
Entails The fire support team consists of the following:
 Forward Observer
 Fire Direction Center (FDC)
 Firing Element
 Fire Support Coordinator (FSC)
Forward The forward observer is the Marine on the scene. He is responsible for
Observer accurately locating and identifying targets for the firing units.
Fire Direction The FDC consists of a group of Marines or sailors who take your request for
Center fire and turn it into gunnery data and a fire order for the firing element. The
fire direction officer (FDO) decides how to attack the target based on your
description.
Firing Element The firing element consists of Marines or Sailors manning the tubes that will
fire the ammunition to attack your target. Depending upon the type of fire
support available to you, decide whether you will use naval gun fire, a
howitzer battery, a mortar section/platoon or HIMARS.
Fire Support Whenever a Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) operates, one officer
Coordinator is designated as the fire support coordinator (FSC). It is his duty to coordinate
many assets of fire support (including fixed and rotary wing close air support)
and to use them to their best advantage in supporting the operation. He does
this by organizing a fire support coordination center (FSCC) staffed by
Marines from the different fire support units assigned to the MAGTF.
The FSCC controls or coordinates your fire support needs in one of two ways,
passive monitoring or active direction.

Fire Support Team, Continued
Fire Support You may have one unit of fire support dedicated to your unit’s support. This
Coordinator, section/battery/ship establishes direct contact to you and responds
continued immediately to your calls-for-fire. If you are calling for fire from a unit that is
dedicated to your support, the FSCC monitors the radio. If your target is
suitably attacked by the dedicated unit, the FSCC normally remains silent and
allows the mission to proceed. If the FSC decides that your target requires
more or different support, he will take charge of the mission based on your
call-for-fire.
You may not have any fire support assets dedicated to your unit. In this case,
you will call directly to the FSCC with your call-for-fire. The FSC receives
your call-for-fire, assesses your needs against available assets, and either
controls the mission or assigns an element to you.

Targets
Types Each of the three supporting arms plans for and identifies targets in their own
way and for different purposes. Targets may include locations of enemy
personnel or material or they may be identifiable map/terrain features such as
hilltops, road junctions, choke points, etc. There are two types of targets,
each with different subtypes. The two types of targets are
 Planned Targets
 Targets of Opportunity
Planned Planned targets are identified prior to an engagement or movement. They are
Targets 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 shown below:
 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 up firing data ahead of time and fire at these
targets in accordance with the time schedule of the particular operation.
 On-call targets are planned targets which are fired by the supporting arms
upon request from the forward elements. The supporting arms will not
normally work up data to these targets until they receive a request, but
they will keep the targets on file for a faster response time.
 Priority targets are combination scheduled or on-call targets. They are

targets identified to 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 in other missions, will remain aimed at and
ready for them but will not fire until they receive the command.

Targets, Continued
Targets of Targets of opportunity are targets that have not been previously identified.
Opportunity They arise during the conduct of battle and are usually temporary in nature.
For example, if you sighted an enemy reconnaissance vehicle operating near
your position, which would be a target of opportunity. Once you fired upon
it, it would either be destroyed or it would move out and the target would
disappear.
Once fired upon, you may record targets of opportunity for future reference.
We will discuss this in the upcoming study units. It is one way in which you
will determine direction and location without a map or compass.

Effects of Indirect Fire
Options When you attack a target with artillery fires, you have many options available
to you. There are three effects of a supporting arms fire mission: destruction,
neutralization, or suppression. You must decide which effect you desire to
cause. You will make your decision based on your knowledge of the situation,
the enemy, and the effectiveness of artillery ammunition regarding which
effect of indirect fire you need to employ.
Effect Description
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 personnel
target. Target destruction usually requires the use of
precision adjustment and/or high expenditures of
ammunition. Because of ammunition expenditure,
destruction missions are rarely fired and must be well
justified.
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 proper shell/fuze
combination. Neutralization fires are the most common
type of fire mission.
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 his
vision temporarily. Suppression requires a low expenditure
of ammunition; however, its inability to place lasting
effects on a target makes it unsuitable for most targets.

Target Numbering System
Standardized The Marine Corps designates targets using a system of assigned target
System number blocks. All targets are identified by a standard numbering system of
two letters and four numbers. The letters and numbers are assigned to specific
units by letter and number blocks. For example:
 A Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) may be assigned target block

AA0001 through AA9999.
 The MEU will then assign target blocks within this set to subordinate
units and organizations.
− 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.
Your unit will be assigned a target number block. You should know your
unit’s target block. If you are a designated observer, you should be assigned a
portion of that block for targeting and planning purposes.
If you are not assigned a target block, and you are only calling for fire on
targets of opportunity, the supporting arms will assign a number from their
block to any targets they fire.

Lesson 2 Exercise
Item 1 Through Matching: For items 1 through 3, match the member of the fire support team
Item 3 in column 1 with his duties in column 2. Place your responses in the spaces
provided.
Column 1 Column 2
Member Duty
____ 1. Forward observer a. Locates and identifies targets to the

____ 2. Fire direction center firing unit.
____ 3. Firing element b. Coordinates the fires of different
supporting arms.
c. Fires the rounds as directed.
d. Receives call for fire and translates
it into firing data.
Item 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.
Item 5 What are the three types of planned targets?
a. Priority targets, on-call targets, and targets of opportunity

b. Priority targets, scheduled targets, and on-call targets
c. Priority targets, planned targets, and scheduled targets
d. Priority targets, targets of opportunity, and scheduled targets

Item 6 Targets that have not been previously identified are designated as
a. on call targets.
b. planned targets.
c. scheduled targets.
d. targets of opportunity.
Item 7 Target neutralization is best described as
a. 10 percent personnel casualties with low ammo expense.

b. at least 30 percent casualties with minimum ammo expense.
c. target temporarily ceases activity with high ammo expense.
d. at least 30 percent casualties with high ammo expense.
Item 8 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.

Answers The table below lists the answers to the lesson exercise. If you have any

1 a 1-15
2 d 1-15
3 c 1-15
4 b 1-15
5 d 1-17
6 b 1-17
7 d 1-18
8 a 1-19
9 c 1-20


STUDY UNIT 2
TARGET LOCATION
Overview
Scope Before you can call-for-fire successfully, you must locate the targets in
relation to the firing unit. Indirect fire support means that the firing unit
cannot directly see the target. They are dependent upon you to get them on
target. The key to successful fire support is the accurate target location. The
accurate target location is the result of a thorough map analysis, a good terrain
association, and an accurate direction and distance. Determining direction
and distance is an essential part of map/terrain association, target location,
and adjustment of fire. In the first lesson of this study unit, you will learn
methods for performing a thorough map/terrain association of the target area.
The second and third lessons of this study unit will teach you to determine
directions and distances. The fourth lesson will connect these tools to the
three methods used to identify the target location to the firing unit: polar plot,
grid coordinates, and shift from a known point.
Purpose Upon completion of this study unit, you will be familiar with the procedures
for target location.

Unit
Lesson See Page

Map/Terrain Association 2-3
Determining Direction (Azimuth) to Target 2-11
Determining Distance 2-25
Methods of Target Location 2-35


LESSON 1
MAP/TERRAIN ASSOCIATION
Introduction
Scope To provide accurate target locations to the firing unit, an observer must be
oriented to his surroundings in relation to targets.
Content This lesson will familiarize you with procedures for map/terrain association.

Objectives
 Identify the methods of observer location.
 Identify the steps in observer location.
 Identify the correct steps to orient a map with a compass.
 Identify terrain association.
 Identify a terrain sketch.
Topic See Page

Introduction 2-3
Observer Location 2-4
Orienting 2-5
Terrain Association 2-6
Terrain Sketch 2-7

Observer Location
Learning Point To locate targets for the supporting arm, you must orient yourself to the target
area. The following are three things you will accomplish:
 Establish your location.

 Locate your target or point you can use for a reference.
 Determine the direction from you to the target or reference point.
Establish You must locate yourself in relation to the map as accurately as you can.
Location With enough practice at land navigation and map reading, finding your
position by map inspection/terrain association will be accurate enough for you
to conduct fire missions. If possible, you should attempt to locate your
position more accurately by performing a map resection or other accurate
means such as Global Positioning System (GPS), or Position Location and
Reporting System (PLRS).
Locate Target You must locate the target relative to your position both on the ground and on
your map. If you do not have a target, use a terrain or manmade feature that
you can also locate on your map. The methods used to locate targets will be
discussed in the following lessons.
Determine You must establish the direction to your target whether or not you have a
Direction 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 a protractor. Locate your position on
the map and from your location, scale the direction to prominent terrain
features with a protractor.

Orienting
Compass Using a compass, you can orient yourself by orienting your map. With the
map in front of you, perform the following:
Step Action
1 Place the straightedge of the compass along one of the north/south
grid lines.
2 Turn the map and compass together until the needle is on north.
3 Move the map and compass together to cause the needle to match
the declination diagram angle (located in the legend of the map at
the bottom) in number of mils left or right of grid north.
Note: Now your map is oriented to grid north.
Cardinal If you have neither map nor compass, associate the limits of your target area
Direction to the cardinal directions (north, south, east, and west). The cardinal
directions are as follows:
North: 0 or 6400 Northeast: 0800

East: 1600 Southeast: 2400
South: 3200 Southwest: 4000
West: 4800 Northwest: 5600
Note: Direction would be measured in mils, and a grid direction should be

given in four-digits when calling-for-fire. Grid azimuths are measured
in a clockwise direction and there are 6400 mils in a circle.
_______________________________________________________________

Terrain Association
Description If you do not have a compass to orient your map, use prominent terrain
features. Put your map in front of you and associate what you see with the
contour lines and symbols on your map. You can make a thorough study of
the terrain by constructing a terrain sketch as shown in the illustration below.

Terrain Sketch
Construct a A terrain sketch (shown below) is a rough panoramic drawing of the area of
Terrain Sketch observation prepared by the observer. Once constructed, it serves as a rapid
means of identifying directions to reference points. A terrain sketch also
provides a rapid means of orienting relief personnel. Items that should be
included in a terrain sketch are
 The skyline (horizon)

 Prominent features both natural and manmade (hill masses, ridgelines,
bodies of water, trees, roads, buildings, antennas, towers, battlefield
debris, (etc.)
 Labels (reference points, known points, targets)
Reference points should be chosen across the area at intervals not over 200
mils apart to aid in rapidly identifying directions. Each labeled item should
include as much information as possible without cluttering the sketch.
Identify the information by numbers, reference point names, and known point
designations and place at the top of the “T” (shown above). Labels for
direction, distance, altitude, and grid should be placed on the right side of the
“T”. Reference points usually only require direction, but known points and
targets should have direction, distance, and grid. Terrain sketches are never
complete; you must continually refine and update them.

Lesson 1 Exercise
answers against those listed at the end of the lesson.
Item 1 Observers can find their location using a
a. map resection or global positioning system (GPS).

b. six-digit map spotting or global positioning system (GPS).
c. map resection or ten-digit grid coordinate.
d. ten-digit grid coordinate or global positioning system (GPS).
Item 2 After finding your location, you must
a. establish direction.
b. locate your target.
c. establish your position.
d. determine direction.
Item 3 To determine direction to target, you can use which of the following?
a. Compass, cardinal directions, terrain sketch, terrain analysis, and

binoculars
b. Compass, terrain sketch, map and protractor, terrain association, and
observed fire fan
c. Terrain analysis, scale, terrain sketch, and cardinal directions
d. Compass, cardinal directions, terrain association, map, and protractor
Item 4 Which of the following is a proper procedure to orient a map and compass?
a. Orient the compass straight edge with one of the north/south grid lines.
b. With the compass needle pointed north, turn the map to match the grid
lines with the needle.
c. Orient the compass straight edge with the declination angle.
d. With the compass needle pointed north turn the map so it is oriented to
true north.

Item 5 Using contour lines and map symbols to orient with your surroundings is
a. terrain association.
b. map orientation.
c. map scaling.
d. hand estimation.
Item 6 What are the minimum requirements to construct a terrain sketch?
a. Skyline (horizon), date/time, and labels (known points, targets)

b. Skyline (horizon), contour lines, prominent features, and known points,
targets
c. Skyline (horizon), prominent features, and labels (known points, targets)
d. Skyline (horizon), prominent features, grid lines, labels, known points,
and targets.

Answers The table below lists the answers to the lesson exercise. If you have

1 a 2-4
2 b 2-4
3 d 2-4
4 a 2-5
5 a 2-6
6 c 2-7

LESSON 2
DETERMINING DIRECTION (AZIMUTH) TO TARGET
Introduction
Scope To provide accurate target locations to the firing unit, an observer must
determine direction from the observer to the target.
Content This lesson will familiarize the Marine with procedures determining direction
(azimuth) to the target.

Objectives
 Identify the types of direction used to locate targets.
 Describe the methods used to determine direction.
 Identify the procedures to measure angular deviation.
Topic See Page

Introduction 2-11
Direction to Locate Targets 2-12
Methods of Determining Direction 2-13
Determine Angular Deviation 2-14

Direction to Locate Targets
Types of There are several types of direction that can be used to locate targets; namely,
Direction observer target line, gun target line, cardinal/intercardinal direction, and
arbitrary reference feature.
Type Description
Observer target The observer target line is an imaginary line from the
line (OT line) observer to and through the target. The OT line is the
direction most commonly used in target location and
adjustment.
Gun target line The gun target line is an imaginary line from the guns to
and through the target. It is most commonly used by
aerial observers to adjust fire, but can be used by an
observer on the ground.
Cardinal This is the use of the eight cardinal/intercardinal
intercardinal directions (N, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W, and NW). It is the
direction least accurate, but at times you may need to use it.
Arbitrary You may use a natural or manmade feature (such as a
reference north-south road or river) from which to reference target
feature location and/or adjustment of fire. This may be used in
situations where transmission of the OT direction may
compromise your location.

Methods of Determining Direction
Five Methods Determining direction is an essential skill for calling for and adjusting fire.
Direction is a term used 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 determine direction;
measuring from a reference point, using a compass, scaling from a map,
estimating, or using other measuring devices.
If… Then…
Measuring from a reference Use a reference point with a known direction,
point measure angular deviation in mils to a target, or
other point, and compute a direction to that point
by applying the deviation to the known distances.
Using a compass Measure a direction to an accuracy of 10 mils.
Using a lensatic compass Read the direction in mils using the outer scale.
Convert the magnetic reading to a grid azimuth
and follow the instructions in the declination
diagram of your map.
Note: Remember, for converting azimuths only,

the rule is left add/right subtract.
Magnetic north is to the left of Add the value of the G-M angle to your reading to
grid north convert magnetic azimuths to grid azimuths.
Magnetic north is to the right Subtract the value of the G-M angle from your
of grid north reading.
Using an M-2 compass You do not have to convert.
Note: Declinate your compass before using it and

the readings will be grid azimuths.
Scaling from a map Use a protractor to scale direction from a map to
the accuracy of 10 mils.
Estimating Visualize a cardinal direction by remembering the
sun and moon rise in the east and set in the west.
Knowing you are facing east North is to your left, south is to the right, and west
is to the rear.
Note: This is the least accurate method but can be

used if you have no other means.
Using other measuring Remember, new equipment is constantly being
devices developed to help provide fast and accurate means
to determine direction. Laser range finding
equipment is extremely fast and is accurate.

Determine Angular Deviation
Procedures You must determine angular deviation (measurement) to determine direction

and also for determining horizontal distance for target location and
corrections in adjustment. You can determine deviation by using binoculars,
a battery commanders (BC) scope, and an aiming circle or by hand
measurement. To determine direction to a point or target, measure the
deviation (horizontal distance) from a point of known direction to the point
you are measuring. Regardless of the means used to measure, remember
azimuths increase to the right and decrease to the left. You can remember
this by using the right add/left subtract (RALS) rule. If the target is to the
right of the reference point, add the deviation to the known direction. If the
target is to the left, subtract the difference from the known direction.
Binoculars The best way to quickly measure an angle is to use the scale on a binocular
recticle pattern. The illustration below shows the reticle patterns that you
will see in Marine Corps issue binoculars. The left illustration is the
binocular reticle pattern for the M19 binoculars. The right illustration is the
reticle pattern for the M17 binoculars. The difference between the two is in
the vertical scale.

Determine Angular Deviation, Continued
Measure The horizontal scale is graduated in 10-mil increments, numbered one

Deviation through five, to the left and right from the center (vertex) of the scale. When
using these increments, you will identify them to yourself as being either left
or right of your known point.
Step Action
1 To measure the deviation between the point of known direction
and your target align the vertex (center) of the scale with the
known point shown below.
2 Determine which number graduation is in line with the center of
the target.
You would read this

measurement as 30 left.
KEY
= Target
= Known Point

Measure Step Action

Deviation, 3 When the known point and the target are farther than 50 mils apart,
continued you cannot align the vertex with the known point. You must
measure by aligning one end of the scale with your known point
and reading the total number of mils to the target shown in the
illustration below.
You would read

this measurement
as 80 right.
4 When the known point and the target are more than 100 mils apart,
you will not be able to fit both in the reticle pattern. When this
happens, you must “leapfrog” to measure the deviation.
5 Move the horizontal scale left or right until the known point is
located at one end of the scale.
6 Find an object or feature near the target end of the scale. This will
then become a reference point.
7 Measure 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.

Measure Step Action

Deviation, 8 Apply the total deviation to the known point direction to get the
continued target direction, shown in the illustration below.
Read this as
85 right.
Leapfrogging 1
Read this as
45 right.
Leapfrogging 2

Measure
Deviation,
continued
Step Action
9 Add the total of the two and subtract from the known distance.
10 Read the measurement in the Leapfrogging 1 illustration, which
was 85 right and the Leapfrogging 2 illustration which was 45
right, giving a total measurement of 130 right. Using the RALS
rule (right add/left subtract) add 130 to the known point direction,
and get the direction to the target.
11 If the target and known point are farther apart than one reference
point will cover, continue to use the leapfrog method until you can
reach the target.
12 When operating in a static situation, determine angular deviation or
measurement by using a BC scope or an aiming circle.
Note: The BC scope or aiming circle are extremely useful when

accurate measurements are paramount, such as for
precision adjustments, for measuring vertical angles, or for
night observation. Both are usually only available from
artillery units.

Hand In situations where speed is essential, or when you have no other means, you
Measurement can use your hand or fingers to measure deviation. To use this method
accurately, remember to fully extend your arm (elbow locked) each time.
With your arm fully extended, palm pointed away from you; place your hand
or fingers between your point of known direction and the target reference
point. By using the values shown in the illustration below, you can determine
angular deviation.
To increase accuracy, calibrate your hand. The values may vary slightly
depending on size of the hand. To calibrate your hand, simply measure the
deviation between objects with your hand and check the measurement against
known deviation or measure the deviation with an instrument.
_______________________________________________________________

Lesson 2 Exercise
Item 1 The types of direction used in target location are
a. observer target line, gun target line, cardinal/intercardinal direction, and

arbitrary reference feature.
b. gun target line, cardinal/intercardinal direction, and arbitrary reference
feature and magnetic.
c. observer target line, gun target line, and magnetic and arbitrary reference
feature.
d. cardinal/intercardinal direction, arbitrary reference feature, grid, magnetic
and arbitrary reference feature.
Item 2 Direction to target can be determined using
a. grid lines, map scaling, hand estimation, or measuring device method.

b. reference points, map scaling, hand estimation, or measuring device
method.
c. reference points, map scaling, estimation, or measuring device method.
d. orientation angles, map scaling, hand estimation, grid azimuth method.
Item 3 Which of the following are used to measure angular deviation?
a. Binoculars, map scaling, aiming circles, or hand measurements

b. Map orientation, map scaling, compass, or hand measurements
c. Map scaling, compass, aiming circles, or hand measurements
d. Binoculars, BC scopes, aiming circles, or hand measurements

Item 4 In the illustration below, what is the angle between the vertex and the target?
a. 4.5 mils
b. 40 mils
c. 45 mils
d. 50 mils

Item 5 You have calibrated your hand as follows:
 Fingers 40 mils each

 Closed fist 200 mils
 Spread hand 400 mils
Determine the measured angle between the points shown in the illustration
below.
a. 40 mils
b. 80 mils
c. 120 mils
d. 200 mils

Answers The table below provides the answers to the exercise items. If you have

1 a 2-12
2 c 2-13
3 d 2-14
4 c 2-15
5 d 2-19


LESSON 3
DETERMINING DISTANCE
Introduction
Scope Once you have determined the direction, determine the distance to the target.
Distance is the horizontal space between a reference point and a target or
between you and the target. Determining a distance is the most difficult
variable in target location. It is also used in the adjustment of fire. The
standard unit of measure for a distance is the meter.
Content This lesson will familiarize you with the procedures for determining distance
to target.

Objectives
 Identify the methods used to determine distance with or without a map.
 Identify an observed fire (OF) fan.
 Identify the formula used to determine lateral distance.
Topic See Page

Introduction 2-25
Determine Distance With or Without a map 2-26
Determine Distance with an Observed Fire (OF) Fan 2-28
Determine Lateral Distance 2-30

Determine Distance With or Without a Map
Methods Distance can be determined by one or a combination of these methods:
Method Description
Lasers 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. Laser
rangefinders provide an observer with the fastest and most
accurate means of determining distance.
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, count the number of seconds 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
observer to the target or round. Use the equation
FLASH-TO-BANG (in seconds) X 350 = DISTANCE
Note: This method has several uses to the observer. It

not only determines a distance, it can be used to
confirm a distance. It can also be used to
determine the distance to the muzzle flash of
enemy weapons.
Estimation Estimate the distance if there is not a more accurate
means available. The degree of accuracy is dependent on
several factors, such as terrain, time available, and your
experience. Remaining stationary is a key element, if this
method is to be effective.
Note: A mental estimate is made by use of a known unit

of measure. Distance is estimated to the nearest
100 meters by determining the number of known
units of measure, such as a football field (100
yards), between you and the target.

Determine Distance With or Without a Map, Continued
Methods, Method Description

continued Estimation, You must consider the following effects when estimating
continued a distance:
Objects appear nearer
 In bright light
 When you are looking down
 When you are down a road
 When you are looking across water, snow, or a
uniform surface such as a desert
 When the background is in contrast to the color of the
object
Objects appear more distant
 In poor light or fog

 When only a small part of the object is seen
 When looking over a depression, most of which is
visible
 When the background is similar in color to the object
When visibility is good, distance can be estimated by using the appearance of

tree trunks, their branches, and foliage (using the naked eye) in comparison to
map data.
When lasers are not available and it is impractical to use the flash to bang
method, you must do a terrain/map analysis to assist in estimating distances.
When you are looking in a specific direction, the estimation of distance can be
enhanced by studying the terrain to associate what you are seeing on the
ground with what you see on your map. The use of an observed fire (OF) fan
helps you associate map and compass direction.
Altitude is the vertical distance measured from sea level. The standard unit of
measure for altitude is the meter. Altitude is determined from a map study
using the contour lines and contour interval.

Determine Distance with an Observed Fire (OF) Fan
Description The OF fan is a transparent protractor that can be used to show the direction
and distance on the map. It helps the observer identify on the map what he or
she sees on the ground. The OF fan has 17 radial lines that are 100 mils apart
and cover a total area of 1600 mils. The radial lines represent OT direction.
The OT distance is represented by arcs marked on the fan every 500 meters
and labeled every 1000 meters beginning at 1000 and extending to 6500. The
OF fan is available through the supply system as GTA 6-7-3. You can make
your own OF fan by scaling direction with a coordinate scale and scaling
distances from your map.
Orienting the To use your OF fan effectively, orient your map, locate your position, and
OF Fan mark your location on the map. Then locate a reference point in the direction
of your area of operation. Now, orient your OF fan by performing the
following steps:
Step Action
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 of the fan. The fan can then be lifted, if required,
to inspect the map without disturbing its orientation.
5 With a marker pen or grease pencil, number the even directions
(every second radial line) dropping the last two zeros.

Determine Distance with an Observed Fire (OF) Fan, Continued
Determine To determine the target location, follow the steps below and determine
Target direction by using one of the methods previously discussed.
Location
Step Action
1 Sight along that direction on your OF fan and map until you
associate the terrain around the target with the proper contours on
the map.
2 Observe the ticks on your OF fan, or measure with a protractor,
and read the distance +/- 100 meters.
3 Determine the distance to the target located at grid 531269 as
3200 meters as shown in the illustration below:

Determine Lateral Distance
Lateral Lateral distance is the distance left or right, from one object to another,
Distance perpendicular to your line of sight. Determining lateral distance is important
Accuracy for you in order to adjust fire and for locating targets using the shift from a
known point method of target location, which will be discussed in the next
lesson. The accuracy of your lateral distance estimation will depend upon
how well you determine the distance from you to the target. Once you have
established the distance from you to the target, you will use the mil relation
formula (W=R x m) to convert the measured angle in mils to a lateral shift in
meters. This formula is based on the rule that 1 mil of arc, at a distance of
1000 meters, will equal 1 meter of lateral distance. It is similar to how
windage and elevation changes 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
Follow the sample problem to use the mil relation formula to determine a
lateral distance.
Looking at the illustration, follow the step-by-step instructions shown on the

next page:

Determine Lateral Distance, Continued
Lateral Known: Distance to known point-2500 meters angle in mils-60 mils

Distance
Accuracy, Step Action
continued 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.
2 The measured angle is 60 mils. The value of m = 60.
3 To find W, multiply the value of R by the value of m, 2.5 x 60 =
150. The value of W = 150 meters.

Lesson 3 Exercise
Item 1 The three methods used to measure distance with or without a map are
a. lasers, aiming circle, and hand measurement.

b. lasers, flash to bang, and estimation.
c. map orientation, compass, and BC scope.
d. map scaling, aiming circle, and estimation.
Item 2 The OF fan is a transparent protractor that shows ____________ on a map.
a. terrain and elevation

b. direction and distance
c. distance and elevation
d. terrain and distance
Item 3 When measuring angular deviation, the mil relation formula used is
a. W = m-R.
b. R = m-W.
c. W = R x m.
d. R = m X W.


1 b 2-26
2 b 2-28
3 c 2-30


LESSON 4
METHODS OF TARGET LOCATION
Introduction
Scope Once you are familiar with determining direction and distance to a target, the
next step is determining an accurate target location. There are three methods
the observer uses to locate targets.
Content This lesson will familiarize you with the procedures for determining target
location.

Objectives
 Identify the steps to locate a target using the polar plot method.
 Identify the steps to locate a target using the coordinate method.
 Identify the steps used to locate a target using the shift from a known
point method.
Topic See Page

Introduction 2-35
Polar Plot 2-36
Grid Coordinates 2-37
Shift from a Known Point 2-38

Polar Plot
Method of The polar plot method of target location consists of three elements: direction,
Target distance, and vertical shift. You determine these elements and report them to
Location the Fire Direction Center (FDC). The primary advantage of the polar plot
method is that it is fast and can be done without a map. If a laser rangefinder
is used, the polar plot method is very accurate. A disadvantage is that your
position must be known to the firing unit. This may require you to send a
coded message of your location (including altitude) before sending the call-
for-fire. To perform a polar plot, follow the steps below:
Step Action
1 Determine direction to the target to the nearest 10 mils.
2 Determine/estimate the distance to the target to the nearest 100
meters.
3 Determine the difference in altitude between your position and the
target to the nearest 5 meters. You do not need to report a vertical
shift of less than 30 meters.

Grid Coordinates
Natural Target location by grid coordinate is a natural extension of the polar plot
Extension method. The FDC does not need to know the observer’s location to use the
grid method. Normally, you locate targets to the nearest 100 meters (six-digit
grid). You do the plot on your map and refine with terrain association, then
read the grid where the target plots on your map. When additional accuracy is
required (for registrations or locating known points), locate targets to the
nearest 10 meters (eight-digit grid).
Map Inspection With sufficient terrain features and/or reference points to associate, you can
determine six-digit grids by map inspection. To determine grids by map
inspection, you simply observe the target in relation to the terrain, find that
spot on the map, and scale a grid.
Supplementary With the use of your OF fan, you can determine six-digit grids easily, and
Data with good observations, you can determine eight-digit grids accurately.
Follow these steps to determine a grid using your OF fan.
Step Action
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 tick marks on the rays.
5 Plot the point and then scale the grid from the map.

Shift from a Known Point
Method of The shift from a known point method of target location is when you locate a
Target target in relation to a known point shown in the illustration below. This
Location method offers several advantages. It is accurate, you do not have to use a
map, and your location need not be known to the FDC. However, the FDC
must know the location of the known point. The known point may be a
terrain reference point previously recorded or a target that was previously
fired and recorded. To perform a shift from a known point, follow the steps
below:
Step Action
1 Identify the known point to be used to the FDC by target or known point
number.
2 Determine the OT direction to the nearest 10 mils and report as
“direction __________.”
3 Determine the lateral distance between the known point and the target to
the nearest 10 meters, 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 becomes
inaccurate; you should use the grid method of target location.
4 Determine the range shift from the known point to the target to the
nearest 100 meters. If the target is further from you than the known
point, you report “add ____.” If the target is closer to you than the
known point, you report “drop ____.”
5 Determine the vertical difference between the known point and target to
the nearest 5 meters, if the difference is greater than 30 meters, you
report this as “up ____” (or “down____”).

Shift from a Known Point, Continued
Method of The illustration shown on the previous page gives an example of a shift from
Target a known point method of target location. The following computations are for
Location, that illustration.
continued
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

Lesson 4 Exercise
Item 1 The three elements of the polar plot method are direction, distance, and
a. grid coordinate.
b. vertical shift.
c. time on target.
d. elevation.
Item 2 Normally targets are located using the grid coordinate method to the nearest
_____ meters or _____-digit grid.
a. 150; six
b. 200; four
c. 100; six
d. 50; eight
Item 3 When using the shift from a known point method, the firing unit does not
need _________location, but must know the ___________ location.
a. observer; target
b. observer; known point
c. target; firing unit
d. observer; firing unit


1 b 2-36
2 c 2-37
3 b 2-38


STUDY UNIT 3
CONDUCTING FIRE MISSIONS
Overview
Scope In this study unit, you will learn how to conduct your fire missions, artillery
communications, spotting and corrections, and adjustments on fire for effect.
Purpose Upon completion of the study unit, the Marine will be familiar with the
procedures for conducting fire missions.

Unit
Lesson See Page

Fire Mission Preparation 3-3
Fire Missions 3-27
Spottings and Corrections 3-35
Adjustment and Fire for Effect 3-51


LESSON 1
FIRE MISSION PREPARATION
Introduction
Scope In order for an observer to conduct fire missions, he or she must first be
familiar with the types of missions, ammunition available, and
communications needed to insure accurate and timely processing.
Content This lesson will familiarize the Marine with preparation needed for the correct
conduct of fire missions.

Objectives
 Identify the types of fire missions.
 Identify shell/fuze combinations and their uses.
 Identify the means of communication available to the observer.
 Identify the six elements of a call-for-fire.
 Identify the three transmissions in a call-for-fire.
 Identify the elements of a warning order.
 Identify the four elements of a message to observer.

Topic See Page

Introduction 3-3
Fire Mission Types 3-5
Shell/Fuze Combinations 3-6
Means of Communication 3-10
Call-for-Fire 3-13
Message to Observer 3-21

Fire Mission Types
Learning Point There are four types of fire missions: adjust fire, fire for effect, suppression,
and immediate suppression, which will be discussed further in Lesson 2. You
will achieve destruction, neutralization, or suppression of the enemy by
performing one of the four types of fire missions. Each type of fire mission is
designed to bring fires to targets for different effects, except the adjust fire
mission, which is a method of target location prior to conducting either fire
for effect or suppression.

Shell/Fuze Combinations
Types of There are many types of artillery ammunition available to you, as the forward
Artillery Shells observer. In the past, artillery was fairly limited to high explosive, smoke,
and illumination. Recently, there have been many technological advances in
artillery ammunition giving a greater variety to the uses of artillery fires and a
greater lethality to the traditional mission. For the sake of simplicity, we will
discuss only five types of artillery shells in this course. The five types you
will most likely use on the battlefield are
 High explosive
 Improved conventional munitions
 White phosphorous
 Smoke
 Illumination
Shell, High Although HE is a single shell, its versatility with different fuze combinations
Explosive (HE) causes fire support planners to consider each of its fuze combinations as a
different shell. There are four types of fuzes available for use on the HE shell
that causes different effects with the round. The four types of fuzes are quick,
delay, time, and proximity.
Fuze, Quick (Q). Quick is a form of point detonating (PD) fuze, and it causes
the round to explode upon impact.
More Effective Against Less Effective Against

Personnel standing Personnel dug in
Unarmored vehicles Armored vehicles
Light material Hardened material
Swamp or soft sand surfaces
Fuze, Delay (D). Delay is also a form of PD fuze. It is designed to delay the
explosion of the round for 0.05 seconds after impact. This minor delay causes
the round to penetrate soft surfaces slightly or to ricochet off hard surfaces.

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

Shell/Fuze Combinations, Continued
Shell, High Fuze, Time (Ti). Time fuzes can be set to explode at a given time anywhere
Explosive (HE), along the trajectory of the round. They are most commonly used to create an
continued air burst 20 meters above the target. An air burst will have greater shrapnel
dispersion and effectiveness than a graze (ground) burst. A time fuze cannot
be used in high angle fires (mortar type trajectory) because the speed of the
falling round makes timing the burst difficult.

Personnel in the open Personnel with overhead cover
Personnel dug in Personnel in dense woods
Personnel in unarmored vehicles Armored vehicles
Fuze, Proximity (VT). The proximity fuze is a radio-activated fuze that

causes the round to explode at a specified height off of the ground (20 meters
for the older models, and 7 meters for the newer models). VT will deliver a
correct air burst every time, even in high angle fires. 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 air burst. You should be aware of this so that you do not
inaccurately report a fuze malfunction. Careful comparisons of the
appearance of quick fuze graze bursts will help the observer realize
when the VT is not a graze burst.
Shell, Improved ICM is a base-ejection projectile filled with grenades. A base-ejection

Conventional projectile is a hollow shell with its base attached by a thin weld and shear
Munitions pins. Fuze function forces the contents of the shell onto the base, pushing it
(ICM) off, and dumping the contents of the shell out of the bottom. All base-
ejection projectiles use a mechanical time fuze to cause an air burst for proper
functioning. The base-ejection causes a large dispersal effect for the
grenades. There are two types of ICM: anti-personnel (APICM or just ICM)
and dual-purpose (DPICM). They are both extremely effective against
personnel, but the DPICM shell is also effective against light armored
vehicles. The Marine Corps is currently phasing out ICM munitions due to a
high dud rate and is researching replacement ammunition.

Shell, Improved APICM. The original ICM grenade is a “bouncing Betty.” The grenade is
Conventional contained in a canister that has spring action stabilizer wings to cause it to
Munitions land right side up. The canister strikes the earth and the grenades pop up and
(ICM), explode. These grenades are extremely effective against personnel in the
continued open, but are ineffective on material or against personnel in snow, water, or
heavily wooded areas. At present, APICM is being phased out of service, so
if an observer calls for ICM, he or she will more than likely receive DPICM.
DPICM. DPICM grenades are cylinder shaped grenades that explode and
cause the dual action of a shaped explosion downward and fragmentation
upward and sideways. The shaped explosion will penetrate light armor (2” of
homogeneous steel), and the fragmentation is effective against personnel.
The DPICM grenade is guided base down 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 become entangled in twigs and branches where the grenades will
not function until someone knocks them out of the tree and they strike
the deck.
Shell, White White phosphorus is an extremely useful, versatile shell. It causes incendiary
Phosphorus effects against volatile targets such as vehicles and fuel or ammunition
(WP) dumps. WP is useful for screening because of its thick cloud of white smoke.
It is used to mark target locations for observers, direct fire, and close air
support because its burst location remains obvious for a minute or more.
There are two types of WP shells available to the artillery inventory: shell
WP (the conventional model) and shell WP smoke (a newer version). Both
shells have similar effectiveness.
Conventional WP. The original WP shell is simply a hollow artillery round

with an explosive 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 WP to the air. Because this happens so rapidly, the
burst appears to be explosive and chunks of WP are sprayed out of the shell.
The majority of the WP remains in or near the shell and this is what causes
the conventional WP round to form its distinctive pillar of white smoke.

Shell, White Improved Smoke. The improved smoke round (also called WP smoke) is a
Phosphorus time-fuzed, base-ejection projectile filled with felt wedges which are soaked
(WP), in WP. Fuze function in the air causes the round to trail the WP felt wedges
continued behind it spreading them out over a greater area than the old WP round’s
chunks. This causes the WP smoke round to have a better screening effect
with less tendency of the smoke to form a pillar.
Shell, Smoke The HC (hexachloroethane) round is a base-ejection projectile filled with a

(HC) smoke canister. HC smoke is a more effective screening agent than WP
because it has a longer burn time and fewer tendencies to pillar. Smoke is
effective for screening all targets, whether the user wishes to obscure the
target or him/herself from the target.
Shell, Illumination shells are used for illuminating areas of suspected enemy
Illumination activity, providing illumination for night adjustment, harassing enemy
(Illum) positions, marking targets for attack by close air support, and “washing out”
enemy passive night-sight systems. The illumination lights up the battlefield
using approximately 1,000,000 candlepower.

Means of Communication
Four Methods You must maintain constant effective communication with the firing unit to
receive and control supporting fires. There are four methods of
communications that you may use:
 Radio
 Wire
 Digital communications terminal (DCT)
 Messenger
Radio Your primary methods of communication will be by radio. You will

normally request 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.
Methods/
Procedures
Call Outs
Call Signs You will use your call sign and the fire direction center’s
(FDC’s) call sign in your initial fire request. Once you are into
your mission, you will no longer need to use call signs each time
you send information. You just key the handset and give the
necessary information. If the firing unit is conducting missions
for more than one observer, you will need to identify yourself
for each transmission. If you are conducting more than one
mission at the same time, you will need to identify the mission
number to which the transmission pertains.
Announcing Whenever you send a number or numbers to the firing unit, you
Digits must pronounce each digit of the number. For instance, if you
wish to send a direction of 1490, you must say, DIRECTION,
ONE-FOUR-NINER-ZERO. The only time you will not
announce each digit is if the number ends in an even hundred or
thousand. For instance, for 1000 you will say, DIRECTION,
ONE THOUSAND not DIRECTION, ONE-ZERO-ZERO-
ZERO. For 1300, you must say, DIRECTION, ONE-THREE-
HUNDRED not DIRECTION, THIRTEEN-HUNDRED. You
will send many digits over the radio to call for and adjust fires.
Pronounce each digit and hundred and thousand instead of
successive zeros for the same reason, clarity.

Means of Communication, Continued
Radio, Methods/
continued Procedures
Call Outs
Repeat and Whenever you say REPEAT to the supporting arms, you will
Say Again receive another round, or rounds, fired at the exact same data and
command as the previous one (ones) fired. If you have just fired
a battery, two rounds, DPICM at a target and you key the handset
on the radio and say REPEAT, you will receive twelve more
DPICM rounds at the same spot as the last ones.
Do not say REPEAT on the radio to ask someone to say the

transmission again. Say, SAY AGAIN, OVER. When you ask a
station to SAY AGAIN, they will say their last radio
transmission over again. When you ask the station to repeat,
their next transmission will be SHOT, OVER.
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 fire mission essential transmission to
you, you must read it back, word for word. The reason for this is
to ensure there is no misunderstanding in targeting information.
A mistake in target location could cost the friendly people their
lives.
Correction Any mistake made during a transmission must be clearly
of Errors corrected so that it is understood it is a correction of an error.
Suppose you sent this target 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 FDC copies it wrong and makes the error in
the read back.

Means of Communication, Continued
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 the company commander and a remote
observation post.
Digital Digital communication enables users to rapidly prepare, transmit, and receive
Communi- both text and graphic messages (clear and encrypted) over standard military
cations radio or field wire. It uses a burst transmission capability that, when used
instead of voice communications, minimizes the vulnerability to enemy radio
direction finding and jamming. You will use the digital communication to
transmit calls-for-fire, fire plans, and battlefield information. When using
digital comm, you must ensure the required destination links and addresses
are programmed to allow for fire support coordination.
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 hindering enemy direction finding.

Call-for-Fire
Six Elements The call-for-fire is a request for fire containing all data necessary for
obtaining the required fire on a target. It is a concise message prepared by the
observer and transmitted as a request, not as an order. It is sent quickly, but
clearly enough to be understood, recorded, and read back without error by the
FDC. The call-for-fire consists of six elements and is transmitted in three
parts, with a break and read back after each part. The six elements of the call-
for-fire are
 Observer identification
 Warning order
 Target location
 Target description
 Method of engagement
 Method of fire and control
These must be transmitted in the following order:
Step Action
TRANS 1 The observer identification and the warning order are the
first transmission.
TRANS 2 The target location is the second transmission.
TRANS 3 The target description, method of engagement, and the
method of fire and control are the third transmission.
Observer The observer identification lets the FDC know who is calling. Use your call
Identification sign to identify yourself. Once given, call signs are omitted from subsequent
transmissions during that mission unless there is a chance of confusion; for
instance, another observer is conducting a mission at the same time you
request your mission.

Call-for-Fire, Continued
Warning Order The warning order clears the net for the fire mission and tells the FDC what
type of mission you want and the method of target location. The warning
order consists of the type of mission, the size of the element to fire for effect,
and the method of target location.
 The type of mission will be one of the four types you will learn in the next
lesson: adjust fire, fire for effect, suppression, or immediate suppression.
 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 battalion to fire in effect. If the target area is small, you
may feel you only need two guns to accomplish the job. For an
inexperienced observer, it is usually best to let the FDC decide the size of
the element to fire for effect.
 The method of target location must be given. Polar or shift from a known
point must be announced. If you are using a laser, you must let the FDC
know. Do not announce the method of target location if you are using the
grid method, this is standard. If you do not say which method you are
using, the FDC will know you are using the grid method.
Example: You want to call in an adjust fire mission using a battery in

effect, and you have located the target by shifting from known
point 2.
Your first transmission would be C30 THIS IS C56, ADJUST FIRE, SHIFT
KNOWN POINT 2, OVER.

Target You must tell the FDC where the target is to receive fire on it. If you used the
Location grid method for target location, announce the grid coordinates. For the polar
method, give the direction and distance from you to the target. If you are
using the shift method, give your OT direction, then how far right or left of
the known point the target is (lateral shift), then how much closer or farther
the target is from the known point to you (range shift). This is given as ADD
or DROP from the known point in 100 meter increments. Next, you would
give a vertical shift if the target is 30 meters higher or lower than the known
point. Vertical shifts are given as UP or DOWN.
Example: Your target is on a direction of 3860, it is 50 mils right of known

point 2 (your shift factor is 3), and you estimate the target to be
600 meters farther than known point 2. Your map shows the area
where the target is to be 40 meters lower than known point 2.
Your second transmission to FDC would be DIRECTION 3860, RIGHT 150,

ADD 600, DOWN 40, OVER.
Target Your description of the target should be brief and accurate. It should tell the
Description following:
 What the target is (troops, trucks, supply dump, etc.)
 What the target is doing (digging in, in assembly area, refueling)
 The number of elements in the target (squad, platoon, three trucks)
 The degree of protection (in open, in fighting holes, with overhead cover)
 Target size and shape (linear, rectangular, circular, or irregular shaped)

Target  A linear target (a target greater than 200 meters in length but less than 200
Description, meters in width) is described by sending the FDC an attitude and length of
continued the target. Attitude describes the direction of the line in relation to the
north/south line and is given as an azimuth from 0 to 3100 in 100 mil
increments. For example: ATTITUDE 1300, LENGTH 300. Attitude is
always given as less than 3200.
 A rectangular target is greater than 200 meters in length and width and is
described to the FDC by length, width, and attitude. For example: 400 by
200, ATTITUDE 2800.
 Circular targets are targets having a radius greater than 100 meters and are
described to the FDC by the radius. For example: RADIUS 300.
 Irregular shaped targets are described using the center of the target, the
length, depth, and the attitude (if required).
Method of You may indicate how you want to attack the target. This element consists of
Engagement the type of adjustment, trajectory, ammunition, and distribution. These sub-
elements will all be standard unless you specify otherwise. Nonstandard sub
elements are DANGER CLOSE and MARK.
 The standard adjustment is area fire. If you want precision fire, you must
request DESTRUCTION.
 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, for artillery it is 600 meters, and 750 meters for
naval gun fire (5 inch).
 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.
 The standard trajectory is low angle for artillery. If you need high angle
fire you must request it. Mortars only fire high angle.

Method of  There are several types of ammunition available to the observer. The
Engagement, standard type of ammunition is HE/Q. If HE ammunition is specified in
continued the call-for-fire, HE with fuze Q 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 must state
either a projectile or a fuze. For example, “Shell ICM” (projectile) and
“VT in Effect” (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 be specified.
 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 (Figure
3-1). The standard for mortars is the parallel sheaf.
Figure 3-1. Sheaf Types

Method of Fire This element indicates the desired manner of attacking the target, whether you
and Control want to control the time of delivery of fire, and whether you can observe the
target.
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.
Method of Without controlling measures, the FDC will fire the howitzers when they are
Control 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 the target 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.
Step Action
AT MY If you want to control the time of delivery of the fire, announce,
COMMAND AT MY COMMAND. When the howitzers are ready to fire, the
FDC will announce, BATTERY/BATTALION IS READY (they
will use the last 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 CANCEL AT MY COMMAND.
CANNOT There may be times when you cannot see the target because of
OBSERVE vegetation, the terrain, the weather, smoke, or maybe incoming
fire. You can still fire the mission by announcing, CANNOT
OBSERVE.
TIME ON There are times when you will want to control the time of impact
TARGET of the rounds. You may do this by using a synchronized clock,
(TOT) elapsed time, or an event (e.g., H-Hour). A synchronized clock is
established by the senior headquarters and disseminated to all
maneuver and fire support units. It requires periodic time checks
to ensure accuracy (e.g., TIME ON TARGET, 0815, OVER).
Elapsed time is expressed in relation to the transmission of a mark
(e.g., TIME ON TARGET TEN MINUTES FROM MY MARK).
The term MARK is used for artillery, mortars, and naval gunfire.
The term 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).

Method of Step Action

Control, CONTINUOUS This is a type of fire in which the illuminating projectiles are
continued ILLUMINATION fired at specified time intervals to provide uninterrupted
lighting on the target or specified area. If no interval is given,
the FDC will determine the interval by the burning time of the
ammunition used. If any other interval is required, it is
indicated in seconds.
COORDINATED This is a type of fire in which the firing of illuminating and
ILLUMINATION 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.
CEASE When firing two or more rounds, the command CEASE
LOADING LOADING is used to stop the loading of rounds into the guns.
The gun sections may fire any rounds that are already loaded.
CHECK FIRING This command is used to cause an immediate halt in firing.
Once check firing has been announced, you must give the
command CANCEL CHECK FIRING in order to resume
firing.
CONTINUOUS Continuous fire means loading and firing as rapidly and
FIRE accurately as possible within the prescribed rate of fire for the
equipment. Firing will continue until suspended by the
command CEASE LOADING or CHECK FIRING.
REPEAT Repeat is not sent in the initial call-for-fire; it is used only in
the adjustment or fire for effect phase of the mission. In
adjustment it means to fire the same data as the last round. In
the FFE phase, it means to fire the same number of rounds
using the same method of fire for effect. Changes may be
requested to number of guns, previous corrections, interval, or
ammunition.
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).

Method of Example: Your target is two BRDM’s with what appears to be a platoon of
Control, infantry sitting around in small groups apparently eating. You
continued determine the standard adjustment is best, there are no friendlies
near, and there is no reason for high angle fire. You want to use
ICM in effect, and one round per tube is all you should need. The
standard sheaf will cover the target area. You want the rounds as
quickly as you can get them, so you will let the FDC control the
firing.
Your third transmission to the FDC will be
TWO BRDMs WITH DISMOUNTED INFANTRY PLATOON IN OPEN,

ICM IN EFFECT, OVER.
FDC will send back
TWO BRDMs WITH DISMOUNTED INFANTRY PLATOON IN OPEN,

ICM IN EFFECT, BREAK, AUTHENTICATE LIMA FOX-TROT, OVER.
You authenticate, and your call-for-fire is complete.

_______________________________________________________________

Message to Observer
Definition After receiving the call-for-fire, the fire direction officer determines how the
target will be attacked. That decision is announced to you in the form of a
message to observer. The message to observer consists of the unit(s) to fire,
any changes to the call-for-fire, number of rounds, and the target number.
The FDC will provide other information, as needed, in the message to the
observer.
Units to Fire Units to fire refer to the battery or batteries that will fire the mission. If the
battalion 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 the unit that fires the adjustment will be the
unit to fire in effect, only that letter will be in the message to the observer.
Number of This is the number of rounds, per weapon, that will be fired in the fire for
Rounds effect phase of the mission.
Target Number A target number is assigned by FDC to each mission to facilitate processing
subsequent corrections.
Other There are times you may need additional information that is pertinent to the
Information mission, such as
 Probable Error in Range – If the probable error in range (PE/R) is 38

meters or greater during a normal mission, or 25 meters or greater in a
precision mission, the FDC will inform you in the message to observer.
 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 FDC should inform you in the message to observer.
 Time of Flight – Time of flight is the time it takes the round to reach the
target. The time of flight is sent on a moving target mission, when
adjusting high angle fire, when firing shell HE in a coordinated
illumination mission, when using BY SHELL AT MY COMMAND, or
when you request the time of flight.

Message to Observer, Continued
Report Upon The firing unit will transmit SHOT after each round in adjustment and after
Firing the initial round in the fire for effect phase. You must acknowledge each.
The firing unit may also report SPLASH. This informs you that your round
will detonate in 5 seconds. You may request SPLASH if the fire direction
center does not send it. To request a splash, use the transmission, REQUEST
SPLASH, OVER. This would allow you to remain under cover and
concealment while awaiting fires. It also helps you to identify your rounds if
other missions are being conducted in the same area. There is no requirement
to acknowledge SPLASH.

Lesson 1 Exercise
Item 1 Which of the following are the four types of fire missions?
a. Adjust fire, fire for effect, suppression, and immediate suppression

b. Adjust fire, fire for effect, precision fire, and area fire
c. Area fire, fire for effect, suppression, and immediate suppression
d. Area fire, precision fire, immediate suppression, and adjust fire
Item 2 The five types of artillery shells are
a. HC, bee hive, ICM, HE, and illumination.

b. HE, HC, WP, Smoke, and illumination.
c. WP, HE, smoke, illumination, and ICM.
d. ICM, smoke, illumination, HE, and bee hive.
Item 3 Through Matching: For items 3 through 7, match the type of munitions in column 1
Item 7 with the characteristics in column 2. Place your responses in the spaces
provided.
Column 1 Column 2
Type of Munitions Characteristics
____ 3. HE a. More effective against personnel than

other types
____ 4. WP b. To start fires or for screening
____ 5. Smoke c. Versatile when used with different
fuzes
____ 6. ICM d. To observe the battlefield
____ 7. ILLUM e. For screening and obscuration

Item 8 What are the four methods of communication available to the FO?
a. Messenger, radio, wire, and yellow canary

b. Digital, messenger, radio, and wire
c. DCT, vehicle, radio, and wire
d. Radio, wire, message to observer, and DCT
Item 9 The six elements of a call-for-fire in correct transmission order are
a. observer identification, warning order, target description, target location,

method of engagement, and method of fire and control.
b. warning order, target description, target location, method of engagement,
and method of fire and control.
c. observer identification, warning order, target location, target description
method of engagement, and method of fire and control.
d. warning order, observer identification, target location, target description,
and method of engagement.
Item 10 What are the three transmissions of a call-for-fire in their correct transmission
order?
a. Warning order (1), target description, target location (2), method of

engagement, and method of fire and control (3)
b. Observer identification, warning order (1), target location (2), target
description, method of engagement, and method of fire and control (3)
c. Observer identification, warning order (1), target description, target
location (2), method of engagement, and method of fire and control (3)
d. Warning order (1), observer identification, target location (2), target
description, and method of engagement (3)

Item 11 The elements of a warning order are the
a. type of mission, target location, and size of element to fire for effect.
b. type of mission, size of element to fire for effect, and method of target
location.
c. observer identification, size of enemy unit, and method of target location.
d. type of mission, size of enemy unit, and method of engagement.
Item 12 What are the four elements of a message to observer?
a. Units to fire, enemy unit, number of rounds, and target number

b. Target location, changes to call-for-fire, number of rounds, and target
number
c. Units to fire, changes to call-for-fire, number of rounds, and target number
d. Target location, changes to call-for-fire, type of rounds, and target number


1 a 3-5
2 c 3-6 to 3-9
3 c 3-6
4 b 3-8
5 e 3-9
6 a 3-7
7 d 3-9
8 b 3-10
9 c 3-13
10 b 3-13
11 b 3-14
12 c 3-21

LESSON 2
FIRE MISSIONS
Introduction
Scope Given METT-T an observer must choose the mission type that makes best use
of available assets and achieves the desired effects on target.
Content This lesson will familiarize the Marine with the purpose for conducting fire
missions.

Objectives
 Describe the purpose of an adjust fire mission.
 Describe the purpose of a fire for effect mission.
 Describe the purpose of a suppression mission.
 Describe the purpose of an immediate suppression mission.
Topic See Page

Introduction 3-27
Adjust Fire Mission 3-28
Fire for Effect Mission 3-29
Suppression Mission 3-30
Immediate Suppression Mission 3-31

Adjust Fire Mission
Definition Adjust fire (AF) missions are requested when you decide an adjustment will
be needed. An adjustment may be needed because of a questionable target
location or lack of registration corrections. There are two types of adjustment
missions: area fire and precision fires. For precision fires, adjustment will be
necessary no matter how accurate your target location is.
Area Fire Artillery, mortars, and naval guns are all area fire weapons; therefore, most of
your targets will be area targets. Area fire is used on area targets. Since
many area targets can move, the adjustment should be made as rapidly and
accurately as possible to keep the target from escaping. A well-defined point
should be selected at or near the center of the area to be attacked and used as
an adjusting point. To achieve surprise, fire could be adjusted on an auxiliary
adjusting point and when completed, the fire for effect could be shifted to the
target. Normally, adjustment is conducted with one adjusting weapon.
Precision Fire Precision fire adjustments are conducted with one weapon on a target. It is
used either to obtain registration corrections or to destroy a target. When the
mission is a registration, 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.

Fire for Effect Mission
Definition Fire for effect (FFE), without previously adjusting to the target, is the most
effective way of engaging the enemy with indirect fire. Adjusting rounds will
alert the enemy and cause him to change his posture, thereby nullifying more
than half of your effectiveness. The fire for effect mission is used when you
have accurate target location and are certain the first volley will impact on
target with little or no adjustment. With first round FFE, you will achieve the
maximum potential damage to the target. The accuracy required to fire for
effect depends on the target and the type of ammunition being used. You
should always strive for first round fire for effect.

Suppression Mission
Definition Suppression (S) missions are conducted to temporarily stop the enemy from
functioning. You may suppress an enemy observation post (OP) to stop it
from directing fire on friendly units. You may suppress an enemy gun
position to stop its support of the enemy defense. Suppressions are normally
conducted against planned targets to support a scheme of maneuver, such as
suppressing the objective until the assault elements reach the fire coordination
line. Suppression may be conducted 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 unit will conduct
the mission according to the plan. When you call for an unplanned
suppression mission, you must tell the FDC the length of time that you
require for the suppression. You should tell the FDC the size of the target to
suppress and the nature of the requirement. If the FDC receives no more
information than the time length of the suppression, they are supposed to fire
the battery/platoon at the maximum sustained rate or the length of the
suppression. This may require them to use too much ammunition, and they
may deny you the fire mission. If they understand your requirement better,
they can time a slower rate of fire or use fewer tubes to accomplish the
mission with less drain on their ammunition supply.

Immediate Suppression Mission
Definition Immediate suppression (IS) is a means to get the enemy off your back so you
can maneuver, assault the ambush, or have time to formulate a neutralization
or destruction mission. Immediate suppression is called for only when you or
your unit is suddenly halted or endangered by enemy activity such as an OP
directing fire, a gun position firing upon you, or a similar situation. The shell/
fuze combination and number of pieces/rounds to fire in suppression will be
dictated by unit SOP or the operation order for the mission. Immediate
suppression is an expedient measure to give you time to react to a situation. It
should end as soon as possible or convert into a FFE neutralization mission.

Lesson 2 Exercise
Directions Complete exercise items 1 through 4 by performing the action required.

Check your responses against those listed at the end of this lesson.
Item 1 Adjust fire missions are used when a/an
a. enemy strength is unknown.

b. target location is questionable.
c. observer location is unknown.
d. firing unit location is questionable.
Item 2 The purpose of a fire for effect mission is to
a. alert enemy units.

b. surprise enemy units.
c. alert friendly units.
d. avoid collateral damage.
Item 3 Suppression missions are used to
a. temporarily stop a friendly unit from moving.

b. temporarily stop the enemy from functioning.
c. destroy a specific hard target.
d. deny a friendly unit access to an area.
Item 4 When is an immediate suppression mission used?
a. Civilians are in danger.

b. Observer location is unknown.
c. Friendly units are in danger.
d. Firing unit location is accurate.


1 b 3-28
2 b 3-29
3 b 3-30
4 c 3-31


LESSON 3
SPOTTINGS AND CORRECTIONS
Introduction
Scope Your primary concern is the placement of timely and accurate fire on targets.
The firing unit cannot see the target or where the rounds are landing. You
must do this for them by spotting the bursts and making corrections to get
rounds on target.
Content This lesson will familiarize the Marine with the procedures for determining
spottings and corrections.

Objectives
 Define spottings and corrections.
 Identify the types of height of burst spottings.
 Define range and deviation spottings.
 Define unobserved and lost spottings.
 Define deviation and range corrections.
 Define height of burst corrections.
 List the sequence of subsequent corrections.

Topic See Page

Introduction 3-35
Observation Procedures for Spotting and Corrections 3-37
Height of Burst Spottings 3-38
Range and Deviation Spottings 3-39
Unobserved and Lost Spottings 3-41
Deviation and Range Corrections 3-42
Height of Burst Corrections 3-44
Subsequent Corrections 3-45

Observation Procedures for Spotting and Corrections
Procedures Your primary concern is the placement of timely and accurate fire on targets.
The firing unit cannot see the target or where the rounds are landing. You
must do this for them by spotting the bursts and making corrections to get
rounds on target.
Spotting A spotting is the observer’s mental determination of the location of the burst,
or mean point of impact of multiple bursts, in relation to the target as
observed along the observer target line. Spottings are not announced to the
FDC except for unobserved or lost spottings. Spottings are made the instant
the burst occurs. You should position your binoculars just below eye level,
looking over the top of them with the naked eye until you see the burst, then
raise them and make your spotting. Spottings are made in sequence for height
of burst (HOB), range, and deviation.
Corrections Corrections are your estimation of the adjustment necessary to cause

subsequent impacts to occur on the target or at the proper height above the
target. Your corrections 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 in reverse sequence of
spottings: deviation, range, and HOB.

Height of Burst Spottings
Types Height of Burst (HOB) spottings are used to determine an increase or

decrease in the height of the burst of a round or rounds. HOB spottings are
also used for adjusting air bursts when firing time fuzes. HOB spottings are
made to the nearest 1 mil. HOB spottings include: air, graze, mixed, mixed
air, and mixed graze.
 Air. A round or group of rounds that burst in the air.
 Graze. A round or group of rounds that detonate on impact with the

ground.
 Mixed. A group of rounds that result in an equal number of airbursts and

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

Range and Deviation Spottings
Range Definite range spottings are required to make a proper range adjustment.
Spottings Normally, a burst on or near the OT line provides a definite spotting. You
can make a definite range spotting when the burst is not on or near the OT
line by using your knowledge of the terrain. The observer must use caution
and good judgment when making such spottings (Figure 3-2). Possible range
spottings are over, short, range correct, target, and doubtful.
Figure 3-2. Range Spottings
 Over. A round that detonates beyond the target or adjusting point is

spotted as over.
 Short. A round that detonates between you and the target (or adjusting
point) is called short.
 Range correct. This is when the round impacts at the correct range.
 Target. This is when the round detonates on the target. (This does not
happen very often in area fire, you will use this most in precision fire.)
 Doubtful. Doubtful is a round that detonates so far left or right of the

target that a definite range spotting cannot be made.

Range and Deviation Spottings, Continued
Deviation A deviation spotting is the measurement left or right of the OT line. You
Spottings measure the deviation (as you learned in Lesson 2) with your binoculars (or
other angle-measuring means) to the nearest 5 mils for area fire or 1 mil for
precision fire. Deviation spottings are measured from the center of the burst
to the center of the target (Figure 3-3). Possible deviation spottings are line,
(so many mils) left, or (so many mils) right.
Figure 3-3. Deviation Spottings
 Line. A spotting of line means the burst was on the OT line.
 Left or right. If the burst is to the left or right of the OT line you spot the
distance, then the direction. For instance, if you measure the burst 20 mils
to the left of the OT line, your spotting would be 20 LEFT.

Unobserved and Lost Spottings
Unobserved At times you may be able to make a spotting even though you are unable to
Spottings see the round impact. For instance, you may hear the round impact but not be
able to see it. By knowing the terrain, you determine that the only place the
round could have impacted without being seen is in a draw beyond the target.
If you have to take cover from incoming fire or if smoke or dirt obstruct the
target area, your visibility may be temporarily impaired causing you to be
unable to make a definite spotting. You may also be unable to make an
accurate spotting because you cannot determine which round, among several,
is yours. Unobserved spottings are reported to the FDC followed by the
appropriate command to take corrective action. For instance, you might say
UNOBSERVED, REPEAT, OVER.
Lost Spottings If you are unable to locate the round (either visually or by sound), your
spotting is LOST. Rounds may be lost for several reasons, including fuze
malfunction (dud), the terrain or weather prevents you from seeing or hearing
the round impact, or errors by the firing unit. When a round is lost, positive
action must be taken. The first action you must take is to let the 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 computation errors or errors on the gun line, you must then
request REPEAT or SHELL WP, REPEAT. You may want to request a 200
meter airburst with HE or Smoke or you may want to make a bold shift. The
location of friendly positions could dictate the action you take. If these
corrective actions fail, send END OF MISSION and a new call-for-fire.

Deviation and Range Corrections
Deviation You have learned that deviation spottings are measured in mils. You have
Corrections also learned that you send corrections to the FDC in meters. We do this by
remembering that 1 mil at a range of 1000 meters equals 1 meter. For
corrections, we convert mils to meters by using the observer to target (OT)
factor. The OT factor is the distance from you to the target expressed in
thousands. For example, if the range is 2500 meters, the OT factor would be
2. To determine the OT factor, you must divide the range by 1000 then round
off the result by using what we call artillery expression.
Artillery expression is a rule of rounding that requires you, when the number
to be rounded is greater than or equal to 5, to round to the nearest even
number. In other words, to determine the OT factor with a range of 3500, you
divide it by 1000 to get a dividend of 3.5. To make this a whole number, you
use artillery expression and round to the nearest even number which, in this
case, would give you an OT factor of 4. Additionally, when the number to be
rounded is 4 or less, you round down. If the number is 6 or more, you round
up. If the range to your target is less than 1000 meters, you do not round up
to a whole number, you use the fraction. For example, if your range to your
target is 800 meters, then, 800 divided by 1000 equals .8, so your OT factor
stays at .8. If the range is 740, you will round the dividend of .74 to .7, but
not to 1 (Figure 3-4).
EXAMPLE OT OT SPOTTING DEVIATION

DISTANCE FACTOR CORRECTION
1 4000 4 45R LEFT 180
2 2500 2 100L RIGHT 200
3 3400 3 55L RIGHT 160
4 1500 2 20R LEFT 40
5 700 0.7 45L RIGHT 30
6 1000 1 250L RIGHT 250
Figure 3-4. OT Factor
Note: OT distances of 1500 and 2500 meters are expressed to the nearest
even OT factor.
Deviation corrections are determined by multiplying the number of mils of

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

Deviation and Range Corrections, Continued
Range Range corrections are your estimation of the distance the round must move, in
Corrections meters, to make it range correct. Range corrections are given as ADD or
DROP so many meters. If a round is spotted as “short,” you add. If it is
spotted as “over,” you would drop. 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 the burst
(determined by using the LR), and add or drop the difference. This is the one
round adjustment method of corrections. If you are not using lasers, you need
to use a bracketing method of range correction, which you will learn in the
next lesson. When announcing range corrections to the FDC you say, ADD
(or DROP) 400, OVER. The distance is understood to be in meters by the
FDC.

Height of Burst Corrections
Definition Correcting HOB is basically the same as correcting deviation. You take the
number of mils the burst is measured above the target and multiply it by the
OT factor to determine the height of burst in meters. The optimal height of
burst for a round with a time fuze is 20 meters. HOB spottings are measured
to the nearest mil and corrections are given as UP or DOWN to the nearest 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 40 correction no matter how many graze bursts are spotted
until you achieve an airburst. If your first round is an airburst, and after a
subsequent DOWN correction the next round is a graze, then you would send
a correction of UP 20 instead of UP 40. The rule to remember is for a graze
burst without a previous airburst send UP 40. For a graze burst with a
previous airburst send UP 20.

Subsequent Corrections
Sequenced So far, you have learned how to draft a call-for-fire, receive and interpret the
Elements message to observer, spot a burst, and turn that spotting into a correction.
Now that you have a correction to send to the FDC, you need to know what
sequence to send it in. You know that the sequence for correction of spotting
is deviation, range, and height of burst, but there are other corrections you
could or may have to send during your fire mission. The sequence to send
subsequent corrections has its own format which cannot be deviated from.
From the possible corrections, you use only those that are required. Direction
is the key element for adjusting rounds onto the target. Direction must
precede all other subsequent corrections. In artillery and mortars, when using
the grid method of target location, direction is sent after you receive 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 or changed, and they must be corrected in the
following sequence:
Step Action
(1) If the direction to your target changes 100 mils, or more,
Direction from the initial direction you sent to FDC, you must send a
new direction. For example, “DIRECTION 4650.”
(2) If your initial call-for-fire did not warrant a danger close
Danger Close call, but a subsequent correction will put you in a danger
close situation, it is announced before any other
corrections are given. If your subsequent corrections take
you out of a danger close situation, announce CANCEL
DANGER CLOSE.
(3) If you need to switch to high-angle fire, or if the initial
Trajectory call-for-fire stated high-angle but low-angle would be
effective, it is announced now.
(4) This element is rarely changed during a mission, but if you
Method of Fire want to change from one gun in adjustment to a platoon
(left or right), now is when you would do it.
(5) If your target posture changes during the mission, change
Distribution the distribution so the sheaf will have the best effect on
target. For example, “LINEAR.”
(6) If you want to change the type of projectile, you would
Projectile announce the change here.

Subsequent Corrections, Continued
Sequenced Step Action

Elements, (7) If you want to change the type fuze, you would
continued Fuze announce the change here.
(8) When you need to change the number of rounds, you
Volume would announce that here.
Although this is the first spotting you correct, it is not
(9) the first subsequent correction you send if any of the
Deviation elements need changing. If no deviation correction is
needed omit it. Deviation corrections of less than 30
meters are not sent to the FDC except during precision
fire mission.
(10) If no range correction is needed, this element is omitted.
Range
(11) This element is used only when using time fuzes, and is
Height of Burst omitted when not needed.
A new target description is sent when you want to
(12) attack another target without sending a new call-for-fire
Target or when your current target description changes
Description substantially.
Besides being types of fire missions, fire for effect and
(13) adjust fire are also considered as methods of control.
Change in Type You would request ADJUST FIRE here if you were
Mission/Control going from an immediate suppression or suppression
mission to a neutralization mission. This is also where
you could announce, AT MY COMMAND, or
CANCEL, AT MY COMMAND.
When you are having trouble identifying your rounds in
(14) the target area because of other rounds, or if you can't
Splash observe your target constantly, announce REQUEST
SPLASH. The FDC will transmit SPASH, OVER 5
seconds before the round impacts. This notifies you to
look at your target area in order to see the burst. Splash
is cancelled by announcing CANCEL, SPLASH.
If you want another round fired at the same data as the
(15) last one, or if you want the fire for effect repeated
Repeat because it was insufficient, announce REPEAT. You
can give corrections to other elements for the fire for
effect and request REPEAT if you want the same
number and type of rounds fired with the new data.

Lesson 3 Exercise
Item 1 Spottings are defined as
a. an estimation of the adjustment necessary to cause subsequent impacts to

occur on target or at the proper height above target.
b. an estimation of the adjustment necessary to cause subsequent impacts to
occur on the target.
c. a determination of the impact of the round in relation to the target and the
OT line for deviation, range, and azimuth.
d. a determination of the impact of the round in relation to the target and the
OT line for HOB, range, and deviation.
Item 2 A/An ______________ is the definition of a correction.
a. estimation of the adjustment necessary to cause subsequent impacts to

occur on target or at the proper height above target
b. estimation of the adjustment necessary to cause subsequent impacts to
occur on the target
c. determination of the impact of the round in relation to the target and the
OT line for deviation, range, and azimuth
d. determination of the impact of the round in relation to the target and the
OT line for HOB, range, and deviation
Item 3 The types of height of burst spotting include:
a. air, graze, mixed, mixed air, and mixed graze.

b. air, ground, mixed, mixed air, and mixed sub surface.
c. height correct, graze, mixed, mixed air, and mixed graze.
d. height correct, sub surface, mixed, mixed air, and mixed graze.

Item 4 A range spotting is defined as a measurement _______ or _________ of the

OT line.
a. left; right
b. up; down
c. added; subtracted
d. short; over
Item 5 A deviation spotting is a measurement ______ or_______ of the OT line.
a. up; down
b. added; subtracted
c. left; right
d. short; long
Item 6 An unobserved spotting is defined as a round whose impact is not seen but
may be identified by
a. distance.
b. OT angle.
c. sound.
d. deviation.
Item 7 A round that cannot be spotted by either sight or sound is a/an
a. unobserved round.
b. lost spotting.
c. check round.
d. unobserved spotting.
Item 8 Deviation corrections are measured in_____ and reported to the FDC in
a. feet; meters.
b. mils; meters.
c. yards; meters.
d. feet; mils.

Item 9 A range correction is reported to the fire direction center as a ____ or
a. up; down.
b. left; right.
c. add; subtract.
d. add; drop.
Item 10 A height of burst correction is reported to the FDC as a ______ or
a. up; down.
b. left; right.
c. add; subtract.
d. add; drop.
Item 11 The 15 elements of subsequent corrections in the correct order are
a. direction, danger close, trajectory, method of fire, distribution, projectile,

fuze, volume, deviation, range, height of burst, target description, change
in type mission/control, splash, and repeat.
b. direction, danger close, trajectory, method of fire, distribution, projectile,
fuze, volume, deviation, range, height of burst, target description, method
of control, end of mission splash, and repeat.
c. distance, danger close, trajectory, method of fire, distribution, projectile,
fuze, volume, deviation, direction, height of burst, target description,
change in type mission/control, splash, and repeat.
d. distance, danger close, trajectory, method of fire, distribution, projectile,
fuze, volume, deviation, range, height of burst, target description, change
in type mission/control, splash, and repeat.


1 d 3-37
2 a 3-37
3 a 3-38
4 d 3-39
5 c 3-40
6 c 3-41
7 b 3-41
8 b 3-42
9 d 3-43
10 a 3-44
11 a 3-45 and 3-46

LESSON 4
ADJUSTMENT AND FIRE FOR EFFECT
Introduction
Scope Once you are familiar with determining spotting and corrections, it is time to
put the knowledge to practical use adjusting a fire mission. The observer has
four methods to use to adjust rounds onto target and transition to the fire for
effect phase of a fire mission.
Content This lesson will familiarize the Marine with the methods and procedures for
adjusting rounds onto the target.

Objectives
 Define the types of adjustment techniques.
 Describe the correct adjustments in successive bracketing.
 Describe the hasty bracketing method and when to use it.
 Describe the one-round adjustment method and when to use it.
 Describe the creeping fire method and when to use it.
 Describe the effects on adjustment.
 Describe the purpose of fire for effect.
 Describe the procedures for end of mission.

Topic See Page

Introduction 3-51
Adjustment Techniques 3-53
Successive Bracketing Method 3-54
Hasty Bracketing Method 3-55
One-Round Adjustment Method 3-56
Creeping Fire Method 3-57
Effects on Adjustment 3-58
Fire for Effect 3-60
End of Mission 3-61

Adjustment Techniques
Types The four techniques that can be used to conduct area fire adjustments are
 Successive Bracketing
 Hasty Bracketing
 One-round Adjustment
 Creeping Fire

Successive Bracketing Method
Definition Successive bracketing is best for an inexperienced observer or when precise

adjustment is required, such as for precision registrations and destruction
missions. This method mathematically ensures that FFE rounds will be
within 50 meters of the target.
After the first definite range spotting (either over or short), you send a
correction to establish a bracket (one round over and one round short). Once
a bracket is established, you successively split this bracket in half in multiples
of 100 meter increments. Normally, you would start with an ADD (or
DROP) 400 and split that in half on the next round DROP (or ADD) 200.
Next, split that again ADD (or DROP) 100. Once you have a 100 meter
bracket the next split will mathematically 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 if your
first correction is large, this could indicate an error in your OT factor.
Remember, range corrections 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 OT factor is 2. The first correction you should send
would be RIGHT 160, DROP 400, OVER. You spot the next
round as SHORT, 15 RIGHT. The correction for this round
would be LEFT 30, ADD 200, OVER. You spot the round as
OVER, 5 LEFT. The correction would be DROP 100, OVER.
You spot the round as OVER, 5 LEFT. The correction would be
DROP 50, FIRE FOR EFFECT, OVER.

Hasty Bracketing Method
Definition Hasty bracketing is best for an experienced observer when responsive fires
are needed.
Experience has shown that effectiveness on the target decreases as the number
of rounds used in adjustment increases. This is due to the loss of surprise. An
alternative to successive bracketing is hasty bracketing. If the nature of the
target dictates that fires are needed in less time than successive bracketing
would take, you need to use hasty bracketing. The success of hasty bracketing
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 next correction. 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 meter bracket. From your spotting you
determine the first round was twice as far from the target as the
last round, so you send RIGHT 30, ADD 50, FFE, OVER. This
puts you within 50 meters of your target.

One-Round Adjustment Method
Definition One-round adjustment provides the most responsive fires but requires an
experienced observer or an observer equipped with a laser rangefinder
With this method, you do not establish a bracket. You spot the initial round,
and then you determine and transmit the correction necessary to move the
round onto the target and fire for effect. This technique can be used when
insufficient time exists for adjustment, when you are equipped with a laser
rangefinder, or when continued adjustment of fire may endanger you.
Example: Your initial round impacts short of the target. You spot it as
SHORT, 35 LEFT. You had estimated the target to be 1200
meters. By using flash-to-bang, you have determined the burst to
be 1100 meters (you don't have a MULE or AN/GVS-5). Your
correction would be RIGHT 30, ADD 100, FIRE FOR EFFECT,
OVER.

Creeping Fire Method
Definition Creeping fire is used for danger close missions. Upon completion of each
mission, you must send refinement data and surveillance. The FDC can
determine effectiveness of fires from this surveillance.
Creeping fire is used only during Danger Close missions. You make range
corrections of 100 meters or less to “creep” the rounds onto the target so you
do not endanger friendly positions. You must know the location of friendly
positions in relation to your target. Their safety is your responsibility! All
guns that will fire the FFE phase will also fire during adjustment when you
use creeping fires.

Effects on Adjustment
Definition You have learned that the FDC will, or should notify you if the Angle-T is
greater than 500 mils or if the probable error in range (PE/R) is 38 meters or
greater. They should inform you of this as it could have an effect on your
adjustment.
Angle-T Angle-T is the angle formed at the target by the intersection of the observer
target (OT) line and the gun target (GT) line (Figure 3-5).
Figure 3-5. Angle-T

Effects on Adjustment, Continued
Angle-T, When the Angle-T is small, your deviation and range corrections correspond
continued to the firing unit’s deviation and range corrections. When the Angle-T is
greater than 500 mils, your deviation corrections become the firing unit's
range corrections and your range corrections become their deviation
corrections. This has a significant effect on your adjustment. When notified
that the Angle-T is greater than 500 mils, you should continue making
corrections in the usual manner until they are not having the proper effect (for
example, a right 200 correction appears to shift right 300). You must adjust
your corrections proportionately to compensate (cut your corrections in half
or thirds) for this error.
Note: When Angle-T is greater than 500 mils, you will observe PE/R as part
of deviation spotting. You may expect to observe a ping-pong effect,
anytime that the Angle-T is 500 mils or greater. When PE/R of 38 or
greater and Angle-T is 500 mils or greater are combined, you will see
a pronounced ping-pong effect. To minimize the effect on your
adjustment, you can cut your deviation corrections or you can request
two guns adjust to get an average of the spotting.
Dispersion and Dispersion is the term for the fact that no two rounds will impact exactly in
PE/R 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 to fire 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

Fire for Effect
Purpose The purpose of area fire is to cover the target area with fire so the greatest
effects on the target can be achieved. The type and amount of ammunition
you have requested depends on the type of target, its posture, and its activity.
The fire for effect phase of an adjust fire mission is entered when the
deviation, range, and height of burst (if necessary) have been corrected to
provide effects on target. This would be when the adjusting round has effects
on target, or when splitting a 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) for deviation and range.
You enter the fire for effect stage by giving your corrections and announcing
FIRE FOR EFFECT.
If you have requested, or the FDC informed you that you will receive time in
effect, you must adjust the height of burst before requesting FFE. When you
split the 100 meter bracket, you request TIME, ADD (or DROP) 50, OVER.
Then you adjust HOB. After you receive time, you do 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 an OT factor of 2. You would send DOWN 20,
FIRE FOR EFFECT, OVER. You do not have to fire for effect from a graze
burst or if the HOB correction is greater than 40 meters.
Obtaining After you fire for effect, you may determine that additional rounds are needed
Additional Fire on the same or different location. If your FFE was on target, but additional
rounds are needed, announce REPEAT, OVER. If the location of fire needs
to be moved to achieve satisfactory results, you announce the appropriate
corrections and REPEAT. For example, RIGHT 40, ADD 100, REPEAT,
OVER.

End of Mission
Procedures After all rounds have landed, there are two things you must do. First you
must decide what class of FFE was achieved, and then you must take action
on it. The action you take is easily remembered by the acronym RREMS.
RREMS stands for refinement, record as target, end of mission, and
surveillance. Refinement is the final corrections needed to move the mean
point of impact onto the target. Record as target is sent when you want the
FDC to retain the target’s plot for future use as a point to shift from. End of
mission is transmitted to end the fire mission. Surveillance is your
assessment of the damage inflicted by the FFE. Your surveillance must be
accurate as to numbers of vehicles damaged or destroyed and body counts
when available. You also report the surviving enemies’ actions (e.g.,
dispersing to the north). Your FFE will fall into one of four categories.
These are listed with the actions you must take for each.
Category Action
This means that the mean point of impact of the rounds
was on target and the volume of fire was sufficient to have
Accurate and the desired effect. If you want the FDC to record the
Sufficient target, announce RECORD AS TARGET, END OF
MISSION, 2 BRDM'S DESTROYED, ESTIMATE 6
CASUALTIES, OVER. If you do not want the target to be
recorded, omit RECORD AS TARGET.
This means the volume of fire was sufficient but the mean
point of impact was not on target. You must give
refinement before ending the mission. For example, if
Inaccurate but you spot your fire for effect as RANGE CORRECT, 10
Sufficient RIGHT and your OT factor is 2, you would send LEFT
20, END OF MISSION, TARGET NEUTRALIZED,
ESTIMATE 10 CASUALTIES, OVER. If you want to
record as a target, announce RECORD AS TARGET after
the refinement and before the end of mission.
This means that not only was the mean point of impact off
Inaccurate the target, but also the volume was not sufficient to have
and the desired effect on target. You must make corrections
Insufficient onto the target (refinement) and request REPEAT. If this
gives the desired effect, you then end the mission and give
your surveillance.
Accurate but This simply requires a REPEAT until the desired effects
Insufficient are achieved.

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

Lesson 4 Exercise
Item 1 The four techniques used to conduct area fire adjustments are
a. concurrent bracketing, hasty bracketing, one-round adjustment, and

creeping fire direction.
b. creeping bracketing, hasty bracketing, one-round adjustment, and creeping
fire.
c. successive bracketing, hasty bracketing, one-round adjustment, and
successive fire.
d. successive bracketing, hasty bracketing, one-round adjustment, and
creeping fire.
Item 2 Through Matching: For items 2 through 5, match the adjusting technique in column 1
Item 5 with its correct definition in column 2. Place your responses in the spaces
provided.
Column 1 Column 2
Technique Definition
___ 2. Successive bracketing a. Will not attempt to establish a

___ 3. Hasty bracketing bracket
___ 4. One-round adjustment b. The best method for an
___ 5. Creeping fire experienced observer
c. The best method for an
inexperienced observer
d. Danger close with corrections of
100 meters or less
Item 6 The effects on adjustments are
a. Angle-T and dispersion.

b. PE/R and dispersion.
c. Angle-T and PE/R.
d. PE/R and terrain.

Item 7 The purpose of fire for effect is to
a. channel the enemy into a killzone.

b. achieve the greatest effects on target.
c. keep the observers position safe.
d. keep friendly positions from being overrun.
Item 8 Which of the following describes RREMS in relation to actions taken during
end of mission procedures?
a. Retrograde, record as target, end of mission, and surveillance

b. Refinement, rounds complete, end of mission, and surveillance
c. Refinement, record as target, end of mission, and surveillance
d. Retrograde, rounds complete, end of mission, and surveillance


1 d 3-53
2 c 3-53
3 b 3-53
4 a 3-56
5 d 3-57
6 c 3-58 and 3-59
7 b 3-60
8 c 3-61


REVIEW LESSON EXAMINATION
Review Lesson
Introduction The purpose of the review lesson examination is to prepare you for your final
examination. We recommend that you try to complete your review lesson
examination without referring to the text, but for those items (questions) you
are unsure of, restudy the text. When you finish your review lesson and are
satisfied with your responses, check your responses against the answers
provided at the end of this review lesson examination.
Directions Select the ONE answer that BEST completes the statement or that answers
the item. For multiple choice items, circle your response. For matching
items, place the letter of your response in the space provided.
Item 1 What are the four types of indirect fire support available to FMF units?
a. Mortars, naval gunfire, howitzers, and HIMARS

b. Mines, howitzers, naval gunfire, and mortars
c. Howitzers, mines, naval gunfire, and HIMARS
d. Mortars, howitzers, mines, and naval gunfire
Item 2 Mortar characteristics can be described as
a. 60, 81, 120mm, high trajectory, high rate of fire, and light artillery.
b. 155mm, medium trajectory, medium artillery, and massed fires.
c. 122mm, light artillery, high rate of fire, and high trajectory.
d. 5 inch, low trajectory, medium artillery, and high rate of fire.
Item 3 Naval gunfire characteristics can be described as
a. 155mm, medium trajectory, medium artillery, and massed fires.

b. 60, 81, 120mm, high trajectory, low rate of fire, and light artillery.
d. 5 inch, flat trajectory, medium artillery, and high rate of fire.
MCI Course 0861A R-1 Review Lesson Examination

Review Lesson, Continued
Item 4 Artillery characteristics can be described as
a. 60, 81, 120mm, high trajectory, low rate of fire, and light artillery.
b. 155mm, medium trajectory, medium artillery, and massed fires.
d. 5 inch, low trajectory, medium artillery, and high rate of fire.
Item 5 HIMARS characteristics can be described as
a. high trajectory, low rate of fire, and light artillery.

b. medium trajectory, medium artillery, and massed fires.
c. long range, versatile ammunition, and medium to low trajectory.
d. low trajectory, medium artillery, and high rate of fire.
Item 6 The mission of the forward observer is to
a. receive calls for fire and process firing data.

b. coordinate the fires of different supporting arms.
c. locate and identify targets to the firing unit.
d. fire rounds as directed.
Item 7 The mission of the FDC is to
a. coordinate the fires of different supporting arms.

b. receive calls for fire and process firing data.
c. locate and identify targets to the firing unit.
d. fire rounds as directed.
Item 8 The mission of the firing element is to
a. fire rounds as directed.

c. coordinate the fires of different supporting arms.
d. locate and identify targets to the firing unit.

Item 9 The mission of the FSC is to
a. fire rounds as directed.

c. coordinate the fires of different supporting arms.
d. locate and identify targets to the firing unit.
Item 10 What are the two types of planned targets?
a. On-call targets and scheduled targets

b. Planned targets and on-call targets
c. On-call targets and targets of opportunity
d. Scheduled targets and time on targets
Item 11 Which of the following are targets that have not been previously identified?
a. Planned targets
b. Targets of opportunity
c. Scheduled targets
d. On-call targets
Item 12 Target destruction is described as
a. at least 10 percent personnel casualties with low ammo expense.

b. at least 30 percent casualties with minimum ammo expense.
c. target temporarily ceases activity with high ammo expense.
d. at least 30 percent casualties with high ammo expense.
Item 13 Marine Corps’ units designate targets using two letters and
a. six numbers.
b. four numbers.
c. unit name.
d. unit symbol.

Item 14 What is used to find the observer’s position?
a. A six-digit map spotting or electronic positioning system (GPS)

b. A map resection or global positioning system (GPS)
c. A map resection or ten-digit grid coordinate
d. A ten-digit grid coordinate or global positioning system (GPS)
Item 15 Locating the _______________ is the second step in observer location.
a. firing unit
b. target
c. FSC
d. FDC
Item 16 When orienting a map, the compass should be turned together until the
compass needle is pointing
a. east.
b. north.
c. south.
d. west.
Item 17 Which of the following is used to orient your map by comparing contour lines
and symbols to your surroundings?
a. Map orientation
b. Terrain association
c. Location establishment
d. Direction determination
Item 18 Reference points should be chosen across the area at an interval of no more
than ______ mils to aid in rapidly identifying directions.
a. 200
b. 400
c. 600
d. 800

Item 19 The__________________ are the types of direction used to locate targets.
a. gun target line, cardinal/intercardinal direction, and arbitrary reference

feature and magnetic
b. observer target line, gun target line, and magnetic and arbitrary reference
feature
c. observer target line, gun target line, cardinal/intercardinal direction, and
arbitrary reference feature
d. cardinal/intercardinal direction, arbitrary reference feature, grid, magnetic
and arbitrary reference feature
Item 20 Cardinal/intercardinal direction is used
a. as a primary means of direction.

b. when no other means are available.
c. when directed by higher.
d. only when the sun is up.
Item 21 The best way to quickly measure an angle is to use the
a. map spotting method.

b. compass.
c. binocular reticle pattern.
d. hand measurement method.
Item 22 The preferred method to measure distance to target is/are
a. a map spotting method.

b. a compass.
c. lasers.
d. estimation.

Item 23 OF fans are available through the supply system, however, you can make
your own by scaling direction with
a. a coordinate scale and scaling distances from your map.

b. a compass and scaling distances from your map.
c. your map and scaling distances from your map.
d. your map and scaling distances with a laser.
Item 24 Lateral distance is defined as the distance
a. up or down, from one object to another, and parallel to your line of sight.
b. up or down, from one object to another, and perpendicular to your line of
sight.
c. left or right, from one object to another, and perpendicular to your line of
sight.
d. left or right, from one object to another, and parallel to your line of sight.
Item 25 The primary advantage of the polar plot mission is that
a. it is fast and does not require a map.

b. the firing unit does not need observer location.
c. elevation changes are not reported.
d. it is fast and requires a map.
Item 26 When additional accuracy is needed targets can be located using the grid
coordinate method to the nearest _____ meters or ______-digit grid.
a. 50; eight
b. 200; four
c. 100; six
d. 10; eight

Item 27 When reporting direction, the Observer Target (OT) direction is reported to
the nearest ______ mils.
a. 50
b. 10
c. 20
d. 30
Item 28 The four types of fire missions are
a. adjust fire, fire for effect, precision fire, and area fire.
b. area fire, fire for effect, suppression, and immediate suppression.
c. adjust fire, fire for effect, suppression, and immediate suppression.
d. area fire, precision fire, immediate suppression, and adjust fire.
Item 29 The four types of HE fuzes are
a. PD, Quick, Time, and VT.

b. PD, Quick, Time, and Delay.
c. Time, Delay, VT, and PD.
d. Delay, VT, Time, and Quick.
Item 30 Which of the following are the four methods of communication an observer
may use?
a. Messenger, radio, wire, and yellow canary

b. DCT, vehicle, radio, and wire
c. Digital, messenger, radio, and wire
d. Radio, wire, message to observer, and DCT

Item 31 Which of the following is a correct call-for-fire in transmission order?
a. Observer identification, warning order, target description, target location,

method of engagement, and method of fire and control
b. Warning order, target description, target location, method of engagement,
and method of fire and control
c. Warning order, observer identification, target location, target description,
and method of engagement
d. Observer identification, warning order, target location, target description
method of engagement, and method of fire and control
Item 32 Which of the following are the three transmissions of a call-for-fire in

transmission order?
a. Observer identification (1), warning order, target description (2), target

location, method of engagement, and method of fire and control (3)
b. Warning order, target description (1), target location (2), method of
engagement, and method of fire and control (3)
c. Warning order, observer identification (1), target location (2), target
description, and method of engagement (3)
d. Observer identification, warning order (1), target location (2), target
description, method of engagement, and method of fire and control (3)
Item 33 The ______________ are the elements of a warning order.
a. type of mission, size of element to fire for effect, and method of target
location
b. type of mission, target location, and size of element to fire for effect
c. observer identification, size of enemy unit, and method of target location
d. type of mission, size of enemy unit, and method of engagement
Item 34 The ___________ are the four elements of a message to observer.
a. units to fire, enemy unit, number of rounds, and target number

b. target location, changes to call-for-fire, number of rounds, and target
number
c. units to fire, changes to call-for-fire, number of rounds, and target number
d. target location, changes to call-for-fire, type of rounds, and target number

Item 35 The two types of adjust fire missions are called
a. enemy and friendly.

b. known and unknown.
c. area and precision.
d. standard and non standard.
Item 36 Fire for effect missions are used when a/an
a. enemy strength is unknown.

b. observer location is unknown.
c. firing unit location is accurate.
d. target location is accurate.
Item 37 Temporarily stopping an enemy from functioning is the purpose of which fire
mission?
a. Suppression
b. Adjust fire
c. Call for fire
d. Destruction
Item 38 Immediate suppression missions
a. alert enemy units to your location.

b. take pressure off of maneuver units.
c. alert friendly units to your location.
d. avoid collateral damage to civilians.
Item 39 Corrections are defined as
a. an estimation of the adjustment necessary to cause subsequent impact to

occur on target or at the proper height above target.
b. an estimation of the adjustment necessary to cause subsequent impacts to
occur on the target.
c. a measurement of the impact of the round in relation to the target and the
OT line for deviation, range, and azimuth.
d. a measurement of the impact of the round in relation to the target and the
OT line for HOB, range, and deviation.

Item 40 Which of the following is a height of burst spotting?
a. Sub surface
b. Height correct
c. Mixed graze
d. Range correct
Item 41 A deviation spotting is measured to the nearest___ mils for area fire and ___
mils for precision fire.
a. 5; 1
b. 10; 5
c. 20; 10
d. 100; 50
Item 42 A lost spotting is defined as a round that cannot be spotted by either_____ or
a. sight; sound.
b. range; OT angle.
c. height of burst; sight.
d. height of burst; sound.
Item 43 A range correction is reported to the FDC as a/an ______ correction if short
and a _______ correction if it is long.
a. add; subtract
b. add; drop
c. up; down
d. left; right
Item 44 Height of burst corrections are measured to the nearest ____ and corrections
are given to the nearest
a. mil; meter.
b. feet; meter.
c. yard; meter.
d. feet; mil.

Item 45 The first and key element of subsequent corrections to adjust rounds on target
is
a. distance.
b. direction.
c. range.
d. deviation.
Item 46 What are the four techniques used in area fire adjustments?
a. Concurrent bracketing, hasty bracketing, one-round adjustment, and

creeping fire direction
b. Creeping bracketing, hasty bracketing, one-round adjustment, and
creeping fire
c. Successive bracketing, hasty bracketing, one-round adjustment, and
successive fire
d. Successive bracketing, hasty bracketing, one-round adjustment, and
creeping fire
Item 47 A successive bracketing mission changes to a fire for effect mission when the
rounds impact within ______ meters of the target.
a. 100
b. 25
c. 50
d. 10
Item 48 The success of a hasty bracket mission depends on __________ to achieve

accurate initial target location.
a. thorough position selection

b. friendly unit location
c. thorough terrain analysis
d. reliable equipment

Item 49 When will an observer use a one-round adjustment mission?
a. When the observers location is not known

b. When the enemy location is not known
c. When there is no time to make adjustments
d. When the friendly unit location is not known
Item 50 During creeping fire missions, you must know the
a. firing unit location.

b. friendly unit location.
c. terrain.
d. observer’s location.
Item 51 The ________________ are the effects on adjustment.
a. Angle T and dispersion

b. Angle T and PE/R
c. PE/R and dispersion
d. PE/R and terrain
Item 52 The fire for effect phase is used when ______________ corrections have been
made to achieve effects on target.
a. deviation, range, and height of burst

b. direction, distance, and location
c. observer location, and firing unit location
d. observers location, and enemy unit location
Item 53 The assessment of damage and casualties falls under which part of RREMS?
a. End of mission
b. Rounds complete
c. Refinement
d. Surveillance

Answers The table below lists the answers to the review lesson examination items. If
you have questions about these items, refer to the reference page.

1 a 1-4
2 a 1-5 and 1-6
3 d 1-7
4 b 1-8
5 c 1-9
6 c 1-15
7 b 1-15
8 a 1-15
9 c 1-15
10 a 1-17
11 b 1-18
12 d 1-19
13 b 1-20
14 b 2-4
15 b 2-4
16 b 2-5
17 b 2-6
18 a 2-7
19 c 2-12
20 b 2-12
21 c 2-14
22 c 2-26
23 a 2-28
24 c 2-30
25 a 2-36
26 d 2-37
27 b 2-38
28 c 3-5
29 d 3-6 and 3-7
30 c 3-10
31 d 3-13
32 d 3-13
33 a 3-14
34 c 3-21

Answers,
continued

35 c 3-28
36 d 3-29
37 a 3-30
38 b 3-31
39 a 3-37
40 c 3-38
41 a 3-40
42 a 3-41
43 b 3-43
44 a 3-44
45 b 3-45
46 d 3-53
47 c 3-53
48 c 3-55
49 c 3-56
50 b 3-57
51 b 3-58 and 3-59
52 a 3-60
53 d 3-61

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MCI 0861A

MARINE CORPS INSTITUTE

Subj: BASIC FORWARD OBSERVATION PROCEDURES (MCI 0861A)

4. Recommendations. Comments and recommendations on the contents of the course are

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

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

Study Unit 1 Indirect Fire Support ..................................................................... 1-1

Lesson 1 Fire Support Characteristics .......................................................... 1-3

Study Unit 2 Target Location ............................................................................. 2-1

Lesson 1 Map/Terrain Association .............................................................. 2-3

Study Unit 3 Conducting Fire Missions ............................................................. 3-1

Lesson 1 Fire Mission Preparation ............................................................... 3-3

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

MCI Course 0861A i

MCI Course 0861A ii

Number and MCI 0861A

Review Agency MAG 31, 2nd MAW

MCI Course 0861A iii

MCI Course 0861A iv

Congratulations Congratulations on your enrollment in a distance education course from the

• YOU SEEK TO IMPROVE YOURSELF. You are enrolled to

• YOU HAVE THE INITIATIVE TO ACT. By acting on your own,

• YOU ACCEPT CHALLENGES. You have self-confidence and

• YOU ARE ABLE TO SET AND ACCOMPLISH PRACTICAL

Continued on next page

MCI Course 0861A v

Continued on next page

MCI Course 0861A vi

• CHALLENGE YOURSELF. Try to recall the entire learning sequence

• USE UNUSED MINUTES. Use your spare moments to review. Read

• APPLY WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNED. It is always best to use the

• USE THE “SHAKEDOWN CRUISE” TECHNIQUE. Ask another

• MAKE REVIEWS FUN AND BENEFICIAL. Reviews are good

Continued on next page

MCI Course 0861A vii

Graduating! As a graduate of this distance education course and as a dedicated Marine,

MCI Course 0861A viii

In This Study The following lessons are in this study unit:

Lessons See Page

MCI Course 0861A 1-1 Study Unit 1

MCI Course 0861A 1-2 Study Unit 1

Learning Upon completion of this lesson, you should be able to

 Identify the characteristics of mortars.

 Identify the characteristics of naval gunfire.

 Identify the characteristics of artillery.

 Identify the characteristics of the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System

In This Lesson The following topics are in this lesson:

Topic See Page

MCI Course 0861A 1-3 Study Unit 1, Lesson 1

MCI Course 0861A 1-4 Study Unit 1, Lesson 1

60mm Mortar 81mm Mortar

Continued on next page

MCI Course 0861A 1-5 Study Unit 1, Lesson 1

Mortar A mortar trajectory is characterized by low muzzle velocity and a high

MCI Course 0861A 1-6 Study Unit 1, Lesson 1

MCI Course 0861A 1-7 Study Unit 1, Lesson 1

MCI Course 0861A 1-8 Study Unit 1, Lesson 1

MCI Course 0861A 1-9 Study Unit 1, Lesson 1

MCI Course 0861A 1-10 Study Unit 1, Lesson 1

Item 1 Which of the following are four types of indirect fire?