ATP-3-09-30 Observed Fires Download

Introduction to Fire Support 28 September 2017 ATP 3-09.30 1-7 TARGETS 1-26. A target is: 1. An entity or object that performs a function for the adversary considered for possible engagement or other action. 2. In intelligence usage, a country, area, installation, agency, or person against which intelligence operations are directed. 3. An area designated and numbered for future firing. 4. In gunfire support usage, an impact burst that hits the target (JP 3-60). TARGET OF OPPORTUNITY 1-27. A target of opportunity is: (1) A target identified too late, or not selected for action in time, to be included in deliberate targeting that, when detected or located, meets criteria specific to achieving objectives and is processed using dynamic targeting. (2) A target visible to a surface or air sensor or observer which is within range of available weapons and against which fire has not been scheduled or requested (JP 3-60). Targets fit into one of five target types. The five types are:  Facility: a geographically located, defined physical structure, group of structures, or area that provides a function that contributes to a target system’s capability.  Individual(s): a person or persons who provide a function that contributes to a target system’s capability.  Virtual: an entity in cyberspace that provides a function that contributes to a target system’s capability.  Equipment: a device that provides a function that contributes to a target system’s capability.  Organization: a group or unit that provides a function that contributes to a target system’s capability. PLANNED TARGET 1-28. A planned target is a target that is known to exist in the operational environment, upon which actions are planned using deliberate targeting, creating effects which support commander’s objectives. There are two types of planned targets: scheduled and on-call (JP 3-60).  Scheduled Target. A scheduled target is a planned target upon which fires or other actions are scheduled for prosecution at a specified time (JP 3-60). This time may refer to an H-hour or other time reference. However, once established, the scheduled target will have a definite time sequence.  On-call Target. An on-call target is a planned target upon which fires or other actions are determined using deliberate targeting and triggered, when detected or located, using dynamic targeting (JP 3-60). The on-call target requires less reaction time than a target of opportunity. Priority Target 1-29. A priority target is a target, based on either time or importance, on which the delivery of fires takes precedence over all the fires for the designated firing unit or element (FM 3-09). The firing unit or element will prepare for the engagement of such targets. A firing unit or element may be assigned only one priority target. The designation may be based on either time or importance. The firing unit or element will prepare for the engagement of such targets as determined by the fire support coordinator. The supported maneuver commander designates a priority target based on time requirements or target importance, and provides the FSO specific guidance as to when a target will be a priority target. The commander should also state the desired effects on the target and special munitions to use if applicable. When not engaged in fire missions, firing units lay on priority targets. Final Protective Fire 1-30. A type of a priority target in a defensive situation is a final protective fire (FPF). Final protective fire is an immediately available prearranged barrier of fire designed to impede enemy movement across defensive lines or areas (JP 3-09.3). An FPF provides continuous fires on a planned target. FPFs should be integrated with maneuver crew served weapons final protective lines.