ATP-3-09-42 Fire Support for the Brigade Combat Team Download
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Chapter 3 3-10 ATP 3-09.42 1 March 2016 Plan for linkup operations as the friendly forces close with each other to complete the encirclement of the enemy. Coordinate with all available fire support units and staff for additional fire support. Know the various systems capabilities and limitations, for example, the large probable error in range of naval gun fire due to its flat trajectory. Establish appropriate FSCMs: Restrictive fire line(s) between converging forces should be considered. An airspace coordination area (ACA) in the vicinity of a penetration may be necessary if close air support is used. Concentrate massed fires at the penetration point to open a gap for the attacking force and to help maneuver forces divide the encirclement into smaller pockets. Provide fires to disrupt enemy attempts to break out. Consider using scatterable mines to delay enemy relieving forces; short duration scatterable mines may be used to help hold the shoulders of the penetration dividing the enemy. Consider selective reduction by focusing fires to destroy a specific enemy capability. For example, destroying enemy air defenses allows close air support and attack helicopters to more easily strike enemy units. Fire Support Considerations For Linkup Operations 3-52. The BCT may conduct linkup operations on its own or as part of a larger force to complete the encirclement of an enemy force, assist breakout of an encircled friendly force, or join an attacking force operating in the enemy’s rear. The initial conduct of the linkup is normally executed as a movement to contact or an attack, depending on the enemy situation and the mission. Each force monitors the progress of the other and makes adjustments to their plans as necessary. Control measures to include FSCMs are adjusted as required to reduce the risk of fratricide. FSCMs are changed and emplaced based on the progress of the operation and the enemy situation. Once the linkup has occurred, the BCT executes other future operations as planned or directed by the higher headquarters. 3-53. Forces linking up exchange as much information as is practical before an operation. Fire support planners must consider: Fire support needed before, during, and after the linkup. Recognition signals and communications needs from both forces. Future operations following the linkup. 3-54. Other fire support considerations in a linkup operation may include: In the case of a moving force linking up with a stationary force, the brigade FSO of the moving force should, if possible, send a liaison section to the fires cell of the stationary force. Consider appropriate FSCMs: Restrictive fire lines between converging friendly forces, as required. On-order coordinated fire lines or RFAs. Free fire areas around bypassed or encircled enemy forces. Ensure fire support personnel are continuously aware of the progress of the linkup forces. Ensure the controlling headquarters clears targets beyond the RFL. Ensure fires for smoke and illumination do not cause adverse effects on the other friendly forces. Consider the use of fires to keep the enemy force between the two friendly forces from escaping. Consider the use of scatterable mines to block enemy withdrawal. Position indirect-fire weapons to allow them to mass fires at linkup points. Ensure positions afford easy access to routes to be used after the linkup.