ATP-3-09-12 Field Artillery Counterfire and Weapons Locating Radar Operations Download

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26 October 2021 ATP 3-09.12 1-1 Chapter 1 Introduction to Field Artillery Counterfire and Targeting This chapter discusses techniques for conducting targeting in support of field artillery (FA) counterfire operations. The chapter begins with an introduction to targeting and its relationship to FA counterfire. It provides a listing of the ten counterfire imperatives and provides a description of counterfire operations. The chapter concludes with counterfire planning and the military decision-making process (MDMP). It provides some staff considerations for counterfire operations in support of large-scale combat operations (LSCO). INTRODUCTION TO TARGETING 1-1. Large-scale combat operations are extensive joint combat operations in terms of scope and size of forces committed, conducted, as a campaign aimed at achieving operational and strategic objectives (ADP 3-0). In LSCO, fire support (FS) could be the principal means of destroying enemy forces. As in all Army operations, counterfire is not conducted in a vacuum, but as part of an overall joint operation. 1-2. The maneuver commander's FS requirements are continually identified, planned, and executed as part of the targeting process. Targeting is the process of selecting and prioritizing targets and matching the appropriate response to them, considering operational requirements and capabilities (JP 3-0). Targeting helps integrate and synchronize FS with other Army and joint functions (command and control [C2], intelligence, movement and maneuver, protection, sustainment, and information). The Army targeting process or joint targeting cycle coordinates and synchronizes FS to shape enemy forces in the deep area to set conditions for subordinate units. Units use the Army targeting process or the joint targeting cycle as appropriate according to organizational echelon. 1-3. Army targeting and its steps of decide, detect, deliver, and assess (referred to as D3A) is integrated with the operations process, joint targeting cycle, and the MDMP. Targeting occurs continuously throughout an operation. Its steps mirror planning, preparing, executing, and assessing. Corps and below units normally utilize the Army targeting process. Corps and division commanders and staffs must understand and be able to interface with the joint targeting cycle. 1-4. The targeting methodology organizes the efforts of the commander and staff to accomplish key targeting requirements. See figure 1-1. Targeting is an outgrowth of the commander’s decisions and establishes the requirements for the development of an effective information collection and intelligence analysis effort. It helps the staff and targeting working group decide which targets must be acquired and engaged. Targeting working groups can vary in composition and structure as determined by the commander and standard operating procedures of the unit. Targeting working groups, their-duties and make-up are discussed throughout this publication. Targeting develops options used to engage targets. A target is an entity or object that performs a function for the threat considered for possible engagement or other action (JP 3-60).