ATP-3-09-12 Field Artillery Counterfire and Weapons Locating Radar Operations Download
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Rocket Artillery and Mortar Warn 26 October 2021 ATP 3-09.12 G-3 G-8. The ADAM element plans and coordinates the emplacement of the warning systems and develops and executes the RAM Warn architecture. The ADAM element coordinates with the FSE for WLR cover to support the RAM Warn task. The ADAM element emplaces the indoor and outdoor RAM Warn antenna masts and radios at the area which the commander wishes to have warning capability for enemy indirect fire. G-9. The FA BN coordinates its WLR coverage with the brigade FSE, and executes the BCT sensor coverage plan. The FA BN also plans, coordinates, and employs retrans teams and emplaces sensor and retransmission RAM Warn masts and radios as required. The retrans teams belong to the FA BN and the primary purpose is to retransmit FM communications from the firing batteries to the BN FSE, coordination must be made and the commander advised if RAM Warn retransmission will interfere or affect retransmission of the BN's fires communication. G-10. To initiate an automatic warn it takes two or more sensors acquiring the same round. Due to the unique limitations of each radar and location requirements for each radar system listed previously, careful planning must be done to place radars in a position for redundant coverage of the proposed defended area. In certain instances it may not be possible to have all radars in a position to perform counter fire and RAM Warn simultaneously. Counterfire, Targeting, and Intelligence Officers in concert with S3's and key planners must perform detailed analysis of the enemy weapons systems, high pay off targets and tactics to ensure that sensor coverage for the counterfire mission is not degraded or inform the commander of the coverage issues if a RAM Warn mission is directed. SITE SELECTION G-11. Site selection is a general site survey to determine the location of the outdoor antenna and a site path profile to determine the RF signal path profile. G-12. The RF signal path profile must be performed before installing the equipment and determines the best location of the antenna, based off the height and obstacles in front of the antenna. Once conducted, provide a copy of the data to the installation team. G-13. When conducting a general site survey in an urban environment, consider placing the antenna(s) on top of area buildings and structures for better line of sight to the receiving wireless systems. G-14. In a non-urban environment, identify terrain features that provide a clear line of sight between the antennas, such as hilltops or areas with few or short trees. To maximize performance, personnel should always try to mount the antenna in a location where a direct line of sight exists. If the obstruction is not exceptionally high, aim both antennas near the top of the obstruction. G-15. The wireless system also supports installation in non-line of sight conditions. Position the antenna as high as possible and obtain a satisfactory multipath RF signal by directing each antenna towards a structure in sight of both communicating wireless systems. G-16. The placement of antennas is important to minimize interference during transmission. If using a mast, select a location with level ground. Once the mast is erected, ensure the mast is level. WARNING Maintain a minimum distance equal to twice the height of the antenna between power lines and antennas G-17. RAM Warn tower positions are critical and should allow for overlapping audio and wireless network transmission. Place outdoor alarms no greater than 1000m apart to ensure proper coverage. The maximum audio radius for the outdoor alarms is 500 meters. The maximum distance recommended between for the audio warning towers is 3-5 km. When doing an outdoor site survey for the RAM Warn outdoor alert cell nodes, allow at least 30 feet from the center mast to any pedestrian pathway and roadways to allow for the guy line installation. Personnel should always choose a location free of overhead obstructions and ensure the site is free of items causing electrical or RF interference. The area should be as flat as possible and free from