ATP-3-09-30 Observed Fires Download
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Chapter 5 5-46 ATP 3-09.30 28 September 2017 The observer, another member of the fire support team, or a member of the supported maneuver unit can go forward at an appropriate time and emplace or light and initiate the trigger marker(s). The individual should have communications and confirm that the marker is visible and properly emplaced. Do this in conjunction with target reference point markers to reduce movement and save time. This is the preferred method. A member of any forward security forces can emplace or initiate and light the trigger markers as they pull back from their forward locations. Usually this should be a fire support Soldier familiar with the trigger marker plan. 5-145. Fire support leaders should develop a trigger marker employment plan that best addresses the mission variables, supports the maneuver commander’s plans, and ensures that primary and alternate observers can observe the trigger points. RECORDING DATA 5-146. For planned targets, the observer should record the distance, direction, and vertical azimuth from the observation point to all trigger and intercept points (use laser designator and rangefinder if available) as well as a brief description of the points. This allows the observer, or other members, to orient on the points quickly, which is especially helpful when visibility is limited. It also facilitates battle hand over if observers change. The observer can also record any of the other factors, such as firing unit and time of flight, that are essential to his time distance and execution calculations. HELPFUL NOTES 5-147. Table 5-6 provides some additional notes for observers. Table 5-6. Helpful notes for the observer Helpful Notes For The Observer Apply the observer-target factor to obtain corrections for height of burst as well as for deviation. Often, initial rounds can be located more quickly with the naked eye than with field glasses. The spotting should be instantaneous and the correction sent immediately to the fire direction center. For observers who wear glasses, remove the protective plastic lens cap on the binoculars to increase the field of vision. Use masking tape on the metal retaining ring to prevent scratching the glasses. Tape the diopter adjustment ring in the correct position so that the observer does not have to adjust the diopter setting every time the binoculars are used. For adjust fire missions, measure angular deviations with the binoculars to the nearest 5 mils for deviation and one mil for height of burst. A good terrain sketch provides an observer direction and a means for making a good terrain map association. An observer can use the direction and flash-to-bang time of an impacting round to determine its approximate grid location. The observer must take immediate action if communications equipment is not working properly. The importance of accurate initial fires (fire for effect) cannot be overemphasized. The adversary will change posture (dig in or move) if being fired upon.