ATP-3-09-30 Observed Fires Download

Chapter 3 3-2 ATP 3-09.30 28 September 2017 Imagery Based Mensuration Tools 3-6. Mensuration is the process of measurement of a feature or location on the earth to determine an absolute latitude, longitude, and elevation (JP 3-60). Mensuration is accomplished through the application of mathematical principles to a two dimensional surface in order to determine the most accurate location of a target on all planes of a three dimensional surface Imagery based mensuration tools are usually loaded on the observer’s forward observer digital system. An imagery based mensuration tool uses multiple forms of national and tactical imagery to refine coordinates for the use of both precision-guided munitions and conventional munitions. 3-7. There are several combinations of ways to use the target location tools available to the observer. For optimal effects an observer should use a precision targeting device to acquire the target and transmit to the forward observer digital system, then refine the target with an imagery based mensuration tool while populating other parts of the call for fire before transmitting the mission to higher. 3-8. The most accurate method to determine a target location is through target coordinate mensuration. The observer has the capability to determine a less than 6 meter TLE using imagery loaded onto a forward observer digital system. Other electronic devices, such as a GPS and a laser designator and rangefinder, can aid in determining an accurate location. When used in conjunction with digital imagery, the observer’s target location accuracy is enhanced. However, an observer should always verify the reliability of the target location through another means, such as terrain map association. ACCURATE TARGET LOCATION 3-9. Accurate target location is critical to achieving first round effects on targets. The use of position locating systems, mensuration tools, and laser designators and rangefinders operating from known locations are critical to accurately locating targets and achieving first round fire for effect. When these capabilities are not available and the observer is operating in a degraded mode, the observer must rely on thorough terrain map study to accurately locate targets. Frequently in these degraded situations, the observer is unable to accurately locate targets and must correct errors in target location by adjusting fires onto a target, thereby forfeiting surprise and effects on target. 3-10. Using large scale maps (larger than 1:100,000) may make terrain map association difficult. In these situations, the use of position locating systems or other navigational aids is essential for observer self-location and the accurate location of targets. 3-11. Accurate target location is not only required for precision-guided munitions but also for every fire mission. The goal for every observer is to provide the most accurate target location (including elevation) possible by using the full range of capability and equipment. 3-12. In order to consistently determine an accurate target location, a good observer-  Must be able to determine an accurate target location through mensuration using current target location tools.  Must be able to self-locate to within 10 meters (100 meters if degraded by lack of position locating systems or other navigational aids).  Uses prominent terrain features to relate potential target areas to grid locations on a map.  Makes a thorough study of terrain by drawing a terrain sketch (in a static location).  Associates the direction in which the observer is looking with a direction line on the map.  Must be able to use electronic navigational aids with map analysis verification. TARGET COORDINATE MENSURATION 3-13. Target coordinate mensuration (TCM) is the process of measurement of a feature or location on the earth to determine an absolute latitude, longitude, and elevation. TCM is a process that provides personnel the capability to refine targeting coordinates using imagery. Mensuration aims to produce a target location error (TLE90) < 6 meters. Target coordinate mensuration is the preferable targeting technique for precision- guided munitions.