FM-3-09 Fire Support and Field Artillery Operations Download
Page 25 of 256
30 April 2020 FM 3-09 2-1 Chapter 2 The Fire Support System As discussed in chapter 1, FS is the product of a system consisting of three parts. FS C2, TA, and FS attack/delivery systems. Because of the diversity of the individual FS parts, the total FS system does not function through a common chain of command as does a maneuver organization. The maneuver commander does exercise C2 over their organic and attached FS assets, but commander has limited control over external FS capabilities that are available for use. The commander's ability to employ FS, as a system, and to integrate and synchronize FS results from an established process known as FS planning and coordination (further discussed in Chapter 3). The elements of the FS system collectively deliver fires where and when needed to support the commander’s objectives. Responsibility for command, control, and coordination of the fire support system belongs to the ground force commander. The commander’s guidance is reflected in the scheme of fires, which must be synchronized with all of the elements of combat power, but especially with intelligence, movement and maneuver, and sustainment. The scheme of fires is the detailed, logical sequence of targets and fire support events to find and engage targets to support the commander’s objectives (JP 3-09). Direction of the FS system is the responsibility of the FA commander. The maneuver commander charges the FA commander to ensure that all available FS capabilities are fully integrated and synchronized with the concept of operations. The FA commander serves as the maneuver commander's FSCOORD and speaks for the commander on all matters pertaining to FS. Section I discusses the C2 element of the FS system in the order of personnel, CPs, and networks (the process and procedure component of C2 will be covered in Chapter 3); Section II covers the target acquisition element of the FS System; Section III covers FS attack/delivery systems. SECTION I – FIRE SUPPORT SYSTEM: COMMAND AND CONTROL 2-1. Command and control is the exercise of authority and direction by a properly designated commander over assigned and attached forces in the accomplishment of the mission (JP 1). At every echelon of command, each commander establishes a command and control system is the arrangement of people, processes, networks, and command posts that enable commanders to conduct operations (ADP 6-0). 2-2. Cooperation among the various FS C2 organizations is necessary for the effective delivery of fires in time and in all domains. This is especially true in joint operations and in operations with unified action partners. Cooperation must be thought of as a product of the C2 the commander exerts to drive the FS system as a whole and the authority the commander gives the FSCOORD to orchestrate it. COMMAND AND CONTROL: FIRE SUPPORT PERSONNEL 2-3. FS personnel are located at FA and maneuver CP's at every echelon of command. Commanders and staffs use several integrating processes to synchronize functions, organize activities, and create effects based