ATP-3-09-12 Field Artillery Counterfire and Weapons Locating Radar Operations Download
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Appendix I I-2 ATP 3-09.12 26 October 2021 SITE REQUIREMENTS I-3. Emplacement and planning considerations for all versions of the AN/TPQ-50. The following factors should be taken into consideration when determining site selection and emplacement: In the event that there are no physical obstructions in the local area, there is no advantage to emplacing the AN/TPQ-50 above ground level. The emplacement height above local terrain should be less than 15m. Place the AN/TPQ-50 in an area with the clearest field of view possible because nearby buildings, trees, and other obstructions could seriously degrade system performance. The ideal location for the AN/TPQ-50 system is on a hill above the surrounding terrain with a clear field of view and a slope of 10 degrees or less. Raising the emplacement height of the AN/TPQ-50 will result in better performance. The WLR should be emplaced to minimize any obstructions, and should mask no more than 4 degrees of elevation in the AO. I-4. When properly sited, the AN/TPQ-50 can provide continuous 6400 mil (360 degree) surveillance. However, the operator may choose to limit the azimuth coverage to less than 6400 mils, but no less than 267 mils (15 degrees), if obstructions such as buildings, vehicles, or trees are located near the AN/TPQ-50. Modifications to the search sector may also be adjusted if a 6400 mil search sector is not required. I-5. Ensure the AN/TPQ-50 is positioned at least 20m from obstructions to prevent reflection damage. Failure to position the AN/TPQ-50 20 meters from an obstruction will likely damage the radar and degrade its performance. CAUTION If obstructions are located within 20 meters of the AN/TPQ-50, the signal return strength may damage the system I-6. The AN/TPQ-50 performance can be degraded or the false location rate may increase due to radio frequency interference from other WLRs or communications equipment. Therefore, the AN/TPQ-50 emplacement and planning considerations should take into consideration any possible interference sources. Interference sources may include high power emitters, such as air surveillance radars since they operate in the same frequency band as the AN/TPQ-50. There are also many jamming devices on the battlefield, both friendly and enemy. This must be taken into consideration during all steps of the MDMP for decisive action, especially during stability operations. If the AN/TPQ-50 is located within a tactical assembly area, "ON" and "OFF" procedures for these jamming devices must be taken into consideration as well as the area of effect for these systems. I-7. Emplacement times are critical in all operations, especially early entry scenarios, when the initial force on the ground is extremely susceptible to enemy indirect fire. To minimize this risk, two operators can emplace the AN/TPQ-50 and bring it to full operational capability in twenty minutes. This is a very important consideration to keep in mind when considering phase lines and triggers during the MDMP. I-8. Analysis of combat operations has identified that a significant number of AN/TPQ-50 acquisitions occur at ranges between 2-10km and these fires may originate from all sectors of the defensive perimeter. The AN/TPQ-50 fills these short range, close support, and 6400 mil coverage capability gaps. The AN/TPQ- 50 provides uniform continuous indirect coverage. I-9. The AN/TPQ-50, can simultaneously locate weapons fired both in-bound and out-bound, in respects to the WLR location. This capability is a definite combat multiplier and must be taken into consideration during the counterfire or targeting process. I-10. The AN/TPQ-50 predicts the impact point for all projectiles accurately enough to provide localized warning in sufficient time for personnel to properly react. This early warning provides enhanced force protection for friendly personnel.