The Fire Support Handbook

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Fire Support manages indirect fires such as mortars and artillery, coordinating IDF for effect.

Map tools can be used to more accurately determine 8 figure grid references. To do so, follow the procedure:

1. Deploy the map tool and align it to North.
2. Place the 0 mark of the grid tool on the target point.
3. Read the 4th digit of the easting from the left ruler.
4. Read the 4th digit of the northing from the bottom ruler.
5. Append both digits to the 6-digit grid.

The grid can now be transmitted using the FM/BS-477 - Read an eight-figure grid reference.

Use map tools to get a grid reference accurate to 10metres.

Map tools can be used to more accurately determine azimuth and distance. To do so, follow the procedure:

1. Deploy the appropriate map tool.
2. Move the centre dot to the first point.
3. Rotate the tool to align the lead line with the second point.
4. Read the azimuth in degrees or mils.
5. Align the 0 mark of the ruler with the first point.
6. Measure the distance in meters to the second point.

You now have an accurate azimuth and distance.

A plotting board can be used to more accurately determine azimuth and distance. To do so, follow the procedure:

1. Centre the plotting board on the origin point.
2. Rotate the base board or ruler to intersect the target point.
3. Read the azimuth using the Vernier scale.
4. Measure the distance using the plotting grid.
5. If the target is over 3km away, use the lower-left origin.

You now have an accurate azimuth and distance.

Use your Vector 21 to measure the current distance and inclination angle to your target by holding Tab + R with center circle aligned on target.

• If equipped with an AtragMX, these values will automatically be transferred from the Vector 21 as displayed below.

Above: Vector 21 data automatically populating into the ATragMX

• microDAGR settings
  • Click the top bar containing the current time
  • Click “Connect To”
• Main screen:
  • Upper half: your position
  • Lower half: sighted position
• Compass screen:
  • Bearing indicator of sighted target
• Target sighting:
  • Vector 21: scope in
  • Press Tab + R
  • Left: azimuth, right: slant range

See https://ace3.acemod.org/wiki/feature/microdagr for all MicroDAGR functionality

• Change settings from deg & SI to mrad & SI
  • 5x Tab for settings
  • R to cycle units: left: 6400, right: SI-U
  • 5x Tab to save
• Fall of shot function:
  • Short-press then press and hold Tab on target
  • Keep holding Tab until the end
  • Hit R on spotted impact, 1-P appears
  • Release Tab
  • Hit R with adjustments visible to cycle range/deviation and vertical shift
• A for Add, d for drop (note uppercase vs. lowercase)
• L for Left, r for right (ditto)
• Read from left to right for immediately transmittable one-round adjustment

See https://ace3.acemod.org/wiki/feature/vector for all Vector 21 functionality

Above: Vector 21 fall-of-shot function usage

Target shape describes the physical size and orientation of a target. Selecting the correct target shape helps supporting fires accurately engage the target area.

Point Target

A point target is used when the target occupies a small area and can be effectively engaged using a single target location.

Examples include:

• Individual vehicles
• Single buildings
• Bunkers
• Small enemy positions

Format

POINT

Linear Target

A linear target is used when the target is distributed along a line.

Examples include:

• Trenches
• Tree lines
• Convoys
• Defensive walls

Format

LINEAR, AZIMUTH [azimuth in milliradians, 0-3199], DISTANCE [length in metres] METERS

The target location previously provided acts as the start point of the line.

Circular Target

A circular target is used when the target occupies an area around a central point.

Examples include:

• Compounds
• Enemy concentrations
• Patrol bases
• Assembly areas

Format

CIRCULAR,RADIUS [radius in metres] METERS

Selection

Select the target shape that most accurately represents the target's physical footprint. Accurate target shape selection improves the effectiveness of supporting fires and reduces the risk of engaging unintended areas.

Line 1: Handshake

• Establish communications with the fire support element
• Identify yourself and declare a Fire Mission request

Format:

[Fire Support Callsign], this is [Observer Callsign], Fire Mission

Example:

ANVIL, this is WATCHMAN, Fire Mission

Fire Support Element Response:

[ Fire Support Callsign], send Fire Mission

Line 2: Target Location

• Provide the target location using the most appropriate reference method

Format (choose one):

• GRID [grid reference]
• SHIFT TRP [name], NORTH/SOUTH xx, EAST/WEST xx
• TRP [name]

Examples:

GRID 118094

SHIFT TRP ALPHA, NORTH 150, EAST 75

TRP ALPHA

Line 3: Target Description and Marking

• Describe target type, size, protection and shape
• Include target size, type, environment, and marking method

Format:

[type], [quantity], [protection/location], [Point OR Circle OR Linear], [shape parameters if required]

Examples:

Infantry in treeline, point target

Tank troop in the open, linear azimuth 3600, 200metres

Infantry in trench line, circle, 100metres

Line 4: Volume/ Duration

• Define how much fire is required.

Format:

[Number] Rounds [Ammunition type], Danger close (if applicable), Request time of flight (If required)

Or

Continuous [duration (if required)] [Ammunition type], Danger close (if applicable), Request time of flight (If required)

Examples:

6 Rounds HE, Danger Close, Request time of flight

Continuous Smoke, 2 minutes

Line 5: Clearance

• Define when the fire mission is initiated

Format:

When Ready

Or

At my command

Or

Time [HHMM]hrs

Examples:

When ready

At my command

Time 1030hrs

Fire Support Element response:

• Readback of lines 2-5

• Target IDs must be assigned sequentially.
• The next fire mission receives the next available Target ID.
• Target IDs must not be reused during the same operation.
• All subsequent references to the target should use the assigned Target ID.

Format

T001

T002

T003

...

T999

• Receive the readback.
• Confirm the receiver has correctly read back all required information.
• If the readback is incorrect:
  • State "Negative Readback".
  • Identify the incorrect line.
  • State the correct information for that line.
  • Direct the aircraft to read back the corrected line.
  • Verify the corrected readback.
  • Repeat as required until all information is correct.
• Proceed with request

Example

Sender:

Friendlies 200 metres north of target.

Receiver:

Negative Readback. Line 4. Friendlies 200 metres south of target. Read back Line 4.

Sender:

Line 4, friendlies 200 metres south of target.

• Review the fire mission request.
• Determine whether the request is ACCEPTED, CHANGES, or DENIED.
• Assign a Target ID if the request is ACCEPTED or CHANGES.
• Ensure Target IDs are assigned sequentially.
• Transmit any changes to the requested mission.
• Transmit the Target ID.
• Transmit the Time of Flight.
• Receive acknowledgement from the observer.
• Confirm a shared understanding of the mission before firing.

Fire Support Element Format

[Observer Callsign], this is [Fire Support Callsign], [Request Response], [Changes (if required)], Target ID [TXXX], Time of Flight [x] seconds

Observer Format

[Fire Support Callsign], changes acknowledged (if required), [Readback of Line 5]

Possible Request Responses

• ACCEPTED
• CHANGES, [changes to request]
• DENIED, [reason]

Examples

ACCEPTED

Fire Support Element

WATCHMAN, this is ANVIL, ACCEPTED, Target ID T001, Time of Flight 24 seconds

Observer

ANVIL, AT MY COMMAND

CHANGES

Requested: 6 Rounds HE, Danger Close, At My Command but only 3 rounds are available.

Fire Support Element

WATCHMAN, this is ANVIL, CHANGES, 3 ROUNDS HE, DANGER CLOSE, Target ID T002, Time of Flight 22 seconds

Observer

ANVIL, changes acknowledged, AT MY COMMAND

DENIED

Fire Support Element

WATCHMAN, this is ANVIL, DENIED, OUT OF RANGE

Observer

ROGER, OUT

• Inform the observer of key stages of the fire mission.
• Include the assigned Target ID in all mission updates.
• Transmit the appropriate update as the mission progresses.
• Receive any required acknowledgements or readbacks.
• Continue updates until the mission is complete.

Format

[Observer Callsign], this is [Fire Support Callsign], [Target ID (if required)], [Mission Update]

Mission Updates

READY TO FIRE

• Guns are ready to engage the mission.
• Observer responds with:
  • ACKNOWLEDGED (if WHEN READY or TIME [HHMM]HRS)
  • FIRE (if AT MY COMMAND)

SHOT [Time of Flight if requested]

• The first round has been fired and is in flight.
• Observer reads back.

ROUNDS COMPLETE

• All requested rounds have been fired.
• Observer reads back and may issue further instructions.

SPLASH

• Round will impact in approximately 5 seconds.
• No response required.
• Target ID not required

Examples

WATCHMAN, this is ANVIL, T001, READY TO FIRE

WATCHMAN, this is ANVIL, T001, SHOT, 32

WATCHMAN, this is ANVIL, T001, ROUNDS COMPLETE

WATCHMAN, this is ANVIL, SPLASH

Bracketing is a method of adjusting fire onto a target when the initial impact misses. By continuously halving corrections and alternating between ADD and DROP, the observer is guaranteed to converge onto the target without requiring any calculations.

Bracketing is particularly useful when:

• Environmental conditions affect the fall of shot.
• Target location accuracy is uncertain.
• Precision targeting tools are unavailable.
• The initial fire mission does not achieve the desired effect.

The observer may wish to issue a CHECK FIRE command and ask for individual rounds to be fired and adjusted.

Initial Brackets

Use the following initial bracket based on Observer-Target distance:

Adjustment Principles

• If the impact is short of the target, use ADD.
• If the impact is beyond the target, use DROP.
• Always halve the previous correction.
• Always reverse the correction direction after each adjustment.
• Continue until the 100-metre bracket has been broken.

Breaking the 100-Metre Bracket

Once the adjustment sequence reaches 100 metres:

• Issue ADD 50, FIRE FOR EFFECT if the impact was short.
• Issue DROP 50, FIRE FOR EFFECT if the impact was over.

Lateral Adjustment

Lateral error may be corrected using:

• LEFT [distance]
• RIGHT [distance]

Major lateral deviations may be corrected during range adjustment. Fine corrections are normally made once range corrections are close to the target.

• Monitor the fire mission and battlefield conditions.
• Issue fire control commands to the firing element as required.
• Adjust the fire mission as necessary to achieve the desired effect.
• Confirm commands are understood where necessary.
• Continue controlling the mission until it is completed or terminated.

Format

[Fire Support Callsign], this is [Observer Callsign], [Control Command]

Control Commands

FIRE

• Execute an AT MY COMMAND mission.

CHECK FIRE

• Immediately stop firing during a fire mission.

CANCEL CHECK FIRE

• Resume firing following a CHECK FIRE.

CEASE LOADING

• Stop loading additional rounds.
• Fire any rounds already loaded.

REPEAT

• Repeat the fire mission using the current firing data.

ADJUST FIRE

• Adjust the point of impact onto the target.
• Corrections may be issued using:
  • ADD [distance]
  • DROP [distance]
  • LEFT [distance]
  • RIGHT [distance]
• Bracketing may be used to progressively adjust impacts onto the target.

FIRE FOR EFFECT

• Following adjustments, the fire mission will be on target and the fire support element should continue with the remaining rounds.

Examples

THUNDER 1, this is SIERRA 1, FIRE

THUNDER 1, this is SIERRA 1, CHECK FIRE

THUNDER 1, this is SIERRA 1, CANCEL CHECK FIRE

THUNDER 1, this is SIERRA 1, CEASE LOADING

THUNDER 1, this is SIERRA 1, REPEAT

THUNDER 1, this is SIERRA 1, ADD 400

THUNDER 1, this is SIERRA 1, DROP 200

THUNDER 1, this is SIERRA 1, LEFT 100

THUNDER 1, this is SIERRA 1, RIGHT 50

THUNDER 1, this is SIERRA 1, ADD 50, FIRE FOR EFFECT

Battle Damage Assessments (BDAs) are used to communicate the observed effectiveness of a fire mission against a target. Use the following categories to describe the resulting effect.

Destroyed

A target is destroyed when it can no longer function and cannot be restored to combat effectiveness.

Examples include:

• An infantry unit is completely killed.
• A vehicle is destroyed and reduced to wreckage.

For infantry, the number of casualties may be reported if known. Estimates are acceptable.

Neutralised

A target is neutralised when it can no longer effectively perform its combat role.

Examples include:

• A large portion of an infantry unit is killed and the survivors are unable to continue effective combat.
• A vehicle loses mobility, weapons, or another critical capability.

For vehicles, neutralisation may be temporary if repairs or recovery are possible.

Suppressed

A target is suppressed when its ability to observe, manoeuvre, or engage friendly forces is significantly reduced.

Examples include:

• HE rounds forcing enemy personnel to seek cover.
• Smoke obscuring enemy observation and lines of sight.
• Continuous fire disrupting enemy movement and coordination.

Suppression is usually temporary and normally lasts only while the effects of the fire mission are being maintained.

Insufficient

A target is insufficiently affected when the observed results do not meet the required or desired effect, but no further engagement is requested.

This category indicates that the target remains capable of operating beyond the intended level despite the fire mission having concluded.

• Determine when the fire mission is complete or no longer required.
• Issue a CEASE LOADING command if rounds are not complete
• Declare the end of the fire mission.
• Provide a Battle Damage Assessment (BDA).
• Include the target identifier and target description (optional).

Format

CEASE LOADING (if required), END OF MISSION, [Target ID], BDA [Effect], [Target Description (optional)]

Examples

END OF MISSION, T001, Target DESTROYED

CEASE LOADING, END OF MISSION, T025, BDA 1 TANK DESTROYED, 1 TANK DAMAGED

END OF MISSION, TARGET BRAVO, INFANTRY IN TRENCH LINE NEUTRALISED

• Line 1: Handshake 
  • [Fire Support Callsign], this is [Observer Callsign], Fire Mission
    • Fire Support Response: [Fire support Callsign], send Fire Mission
• Line 2: Target Location
  • GRID [grid reference]
  •  TRP [name]
  • SHIFT TRP [name], NORTH/SOUTH [distance in metres], EAST/WEST [distance in metres]
• Line 3: Target Description and Marking
  •  [type], [quantity], [protection/location], [POINT/CIRCULAR/LINEAR], [shape parameters if required]
• Line 4: Volume/ Duration
  • [Number] ROUNDS [ammunition type], Danger Close (if applicable), Request Time of Flight (if required)
  • CONTINUOUS [duration (if required)] [ammunition type], Danger Close (if applicable), Request Time of Flight (if required)
• Line 5: Clearance
  • FIRE WHEN READY
  • FIRE AT MY COMMAND
  • FIRE at TIME [HHMM]HRS
• Fire Support Response: Readback of Lines 2-5

Fire Support Element

[Observer Callsign], this is [Fire Support Callsign], [Request Response], [Changes (if required)], Target ID [TXXX], Time of Flight [x] seconds

Observer

[Fire Support Callsign], changes acknowledged (if required), [Readback of Line 5]

Possible Request Responses

• ACCEPTED
• CHANGES, [changes to request]
• DENIED, [reason]

Format

[Fire Support Callsign], this is [Observer Callsign], [Control Command]

Possible Control Commands

• FIRE
• CHECK FIRE
• CANCEL CHECK FIRE
• CEASE LOADING
• REPEAT

Format

CEASE LOADING (if required), END OF MISSION, [Target ID], BDA [Effect], [Target Description (optional)]

HE Mission Against Infantry in a Treeline (At My Command)

Observer

ANVIL, this is WATCHMAN, Fire Mission

Fire Support

ANVIL, send Fire Mission

Observer

GRID 118094

Infantry Section, 10 Personnel, Treeline, POINT

6 ROUNDS HE, Request Time of Flight

AT MY COMMAND

Fire Support Readback

ANVIL, GRID 118094, Infantry Section, 10 Personnel, Treeline, POINT, 6 ROUNDS HE, AT MY COMMAND

Observer
WATCHMAN Readback Correct

Fire Support MTO

WATCHMAN, this is ANVIL, ACCEPTED, Target ID T001, Time of Flight 24 seconds

Observer

WATCHMAN, AT MY COMMAND

Fire Support

WATCHMAN, this is ANVIL, T001, READY TO FIRE

Observer

WATCHMAN, FIRE

Fire Support

WATCHMAN, this is ANVIL, T001, SHOT, 24

Observer

WATCHMAN, T001, SHOT, 24

Fire Support

WATCHMAN, this is ANVIL, SPLASH

Fire Support

WATCHMAN, this is ANVIL, T001, ROUNDS COMPLETE

Observer

END OF MISSION, T001, BDA DESTROYED, INFANTRY IN TREELINE

Smoke Mission to Screen Friendly Movement (When Ready)

Observer

ANVIL, this is WATCHMAN, Fire Mission

Fire Support

ANVIL, send Fire Mission

Observer

SHIFT TRP ALPHA, NORTH 150, EAST 75

Enemy Observation Post, 4 Personnel, Hilltop, CIRCULAR, RADIUS 50 METERS

CONTINUOUS 2 MINUTES SMOKE

FIRE WHEN READY

Fire Support Readback

WATCHMAN, SHIFT TRP ALPHA, NORTH 150, EAST 75, Enemy Observation Post, 4 Personnel, Hilltop, CIRCULAR RADIUS 50 METERS, CONTINUOUS 1 MINUTE SMOKE, FIRE WHEN READY

Observer

Negative Readback. Line 4. CONTINUOUS 2 MINUTES SMOKE. Read back Line 4.

Fire Support

Line 4, CONTINUOUS 2 MINUTES SMOKE.

Observer

WATCHMAN, Readback Correct.

Fire Support MTO

WATCHMAN, this is ANVIL, ACCEPTED, Target ID T002, Time of Flight 18 seconds

Observer

WATCHMAN, FIRE WHEN READY

Fire Support

WATCHMAN, this is ANVIL, T002, SHOT, 18

Observer

WATCHMAN, T002, SHOT, 18

Fire Support

WATCHMAN, this is ANVIL, SPLASH

Fire Support

WATCHMAN, this is ANVIL, T002, ROUNDS COMPLETE

Observer

WATCHMAN, T002, ROUNDS COMPLETE

Observer

END OF MISSION, T002, BDA SUPPRESSED, ENEMY OBSERVATION POST

Danger Close Mission Against Trench System (Mission Changed)

Observer

ANVIL, this is WATCHMAN, Fire Mission

Fire Support

ANVIL, send Fire Mission

Observer

TRP BRAVO

Infantry Platoon, 30 Personnel, Trench Line, LINEAR, AZIMUTH 1600, DISTANCE 300 METERS

6 ROUNDS HE, DANGER CLOSE, Request Time of Flight

AT MY COMMAND

Fire Support Readback

WATCHMAN, TRP BRAVO, Infantry Platoon, 30 Personnel, Trench Line, LINEAR AZIMUTH 1600, DISTANCE 300 METERS, 6 ROUNDS HE DANGER CLOSE, AT MY COMMAND

Observer
WATCHMAN Readback Correct

Fire Support MTO

WATCHMAN, this is ANVIL, CHANGES, 3 ROUNDS HE, DANGER CLOSE, Target ID T003, Time of Flight 22 seconds

Observer

WATCHMAN, changes acknowledged, AT MY COMMAND

Fire Support

WATCHMAN, this is ANVIL, T003, READY TO FIRE

Observer

WATCHMAN, FIRE

Fire Support

WATCHMAN, this is ANVIL, T003, SHOT, 22

Observer

WATCHMAN, T003, SHOT, 22

Fire Support

WATCHMAN, this is ANVIL, SPLASH

Fire Support

WATCHMAN, this is ANVIL, T003, ROUNDS COMPLETE

Observer

WATCHMAN CEASE LOADING, END OF MISSION, T003, BDA NEUTRALISED, INFANTRY IN TRENCH LINE

Use standard responses to confirm or clarify fire mission instructions then confirm readiness to fire or request further clarification if unsure.:

Release methods determine the timing and coordination of fire across multiple guns. Each method balances speed, control, and desired effects on the target:

Read back and comply with the release method given by the controller.

Give clear fire control commands during release phases, repeat commands as needed for safety or synchronization.

Clear status updates from gun crews allow fire controllers to track progress, synchronize timing, and manage ammunition effectively. 

Consistent use of brevity enables:

• Timely follow-up orders
• Safe fire stoppage if needed
• Effective BDA (Battle Damage Assessment) sequencing

See FM/BS-1149 - Communicate within a fire support element using the correct brevity for required prowords.

Use the correct brevity within a crew/section/battery to communicate effectively:

Fire support elements must remain flexible and safe to accommodate changing conditions or emerging hazards. Using safety controls ensures responsive and safe fire support delivery under pressure.

Understand safety control orders to stop or repeat a fire mission in a timely manner:

The Artillery Computer is a digital targeting aid. Its use is disabled by default in UNITAF operations to support manual calculation and realistic simulation.

• Authorised Use: Only permitted in operations classified as E3 or above.
• Preconditions for Use:
  • Computer assistance must be available (via vehicle or facility). The following classes of vehicle are acceptable:
    • All self propelled guns (SPGs) and rocket artillery.
    • NATO/Western artillery guns (≥105mm) if a battery commander is present.
    • NATO/Western mortar carriers.
  • Plausible geolocation of gun and target must be possible.

Declaration Requirement: Enabling of the Artillery Computer must be stated in the mission OPORD.

• Choose level ground.
• Avoid terrain and natural features that may obstruct fire.
• Use available or potential cover.
• Maintain spacing between guns. 

• Orient the position for the desired fire direction.
• Allow enough space for movement and reloads. 

• Set the gun to the given azimuth and elevation.
• Load specified charge and ammunition type.

When not actively firing, fire support crews should prioritise the following in order:

1. Provide security and cover sectors.
2. Maintain or improve the gun position.
3. Inventory ammunition at each gun.
4. Inventory and restock ammunition
5. Assist in planning or calculating upcoming fire missions.

• Determine gun location
  • Determine grid and altitude (ASL) of each firing point.
  • Use centre-point only if all guns are within 50m radius.
• Determine target location
  • Determine grid and altitude (ASL) via Grid, Polar, or Shift.
• Determine sight to target
  • Calculate azimuth, distance, and altitude difference.
• Develop the fire solution
  • Select charge using range table.
  • Determine base elevation; interpolate if needed.
  • Adjust for altitude difference.
  • Calculate time of flight.
• Set ammunition parameters
  • Set proximity/timed fuses based on altitude or time of flight if applicable.
• Verify all data
  • Recheck all data.
  • Ideally cross-check with a second calculator.

Element leaders may delegate specific responsibilities to ensure efficient delivery of fire support.

Delegatable duties:

• CFF Communication: Receiving inbound Calls for Fire.
• Fire Mission Calculation: Determining charge, azimuth, elevation, and ammunition.
• Fire Mission Communication: Transmitting fire orders to subordinate elements.

A fire mission typically follows this sequence:

1. Request: The observer sends a Call for Fire.
2. Acknowledge: Fire controller acknowledges and confirms received data.
3. Calculate: Fire controller determines and communicates firing parameters.
4. Lay: Crews apply the firing data and report when ready.
5. Release: The fire controller issues the fire order.
6. BDA: The observer conducts Battle Damage Assessment.
7. Adjust: Corrections are issued if required.

Steps 2 to 7 may be repeated until the desired effect on target is achieved.

Three methods to specify a target:

• Grid: Grid coordinates from the map.
• Polar: Distance and direction from the observer.
• Shift: Offset from a known reference point, e.g. a TRP or PPT.

Fire missions are given by the Fire Controller in the following format : 

1. Gun/Section number
2. Target Reference Point or Pre-Planned Target
3. Release method
4. Type of round
5. Ammo information
6. Number of rounds
7. Charge
8. Azimuth
9. Elevation

1. Gun/Section number

2. Target Reference Point or Pre-Planned Target

Target number assigned during calculation, each fire mission has a unique target identification number.

See: FM/BS-802 - Establish target reference points (TRP) and FM/BS-803 - Establish pre-planned targets (PPT)

3. Release method

See: FM/BS-1147 - Execute fire release methods

4. Type of round

Type of ammunition to be used

5. Ammo information

Used for special rounds where a setting is to be configured (i.e. laser code or timed explosion) 

6. Number of rounds

The number of rounds to be fired by each gun (i.e. an order of 5 rounds for 3 guns will result in a total of 15 rounds being fired)

7. Charge

Charge number to be used (please note some Pisces may show the charge as a name ('close', 'medium', 'far') instead of a number, in those cases treat the smallest one as 0 then following modes counting up 

8. Azimuth

Azimuth with a modifier for continuous fire. The azimuth is always given as a 4 digit number

9. Elevation

Elevation with a modifier for continuous fire. The elevation is always given as a 4 digit number

• Transmit all fire mission parameters clearly in the correct format. See FM/BG-1273 - Issuing a fire mission to crews
• Repeat parameters when requested.
• Issue further commands as necessary
• Comply with the release command given by the observer.

Fire support elements follow a three-tier hierarchy to enable scalable and organized delivery of indirect fire.

• Battery: Coordinates up to three Sections; highest level of fire support control.
• Section: Controls two to three Gun Teams; operates semi-independently within the Battery.
• Gun Team: Operates a single mortar or artillery piece; composed of a Gunner and Assistant.

This structure supports scaling from squad-level support to full Batteries. The highest level of commander present takes command, Battery -> Section -> Gunner.

Target Reference Points (TRPs) are pre-planned, easily identifiable locations used by pilots, Forward Air Controllers (FACs) and Forward Observers to coordinate positions for Close Air Support and Fire Support Missions. They provide a shared reference system, allowing rapid and accurate communication without relying on grids.

TRPs are placed on prominent, recognisable terrain features (such as road junctions, buildings, hilltops, or bridges) that are visible from both air and ground. Each is given a standardised label in accordance with FM / BS-802 to ensure clarity.

Pre-planning fire missions during the mission design or briefing phase helps ensure that indirect fire support can be delivered rapidly and accurately once operations are underway. It also enhances coordination with manoeuvre elements by reducing the time needed to identify, communicate, and engage targets.

Common components of fire mission pre-planning include:

• Pre-Planned Targets (PPT): Plotting likely enemy positions, chokepoints, or objectives ahead of time allows for quicker engagement during execution. These targets should be labelled using standard MTO formats (see FM/BS-726) to streamline communication and avoid confusion.
• Target Reference Points (TRPs): TRPs serve as shared map references that observers and gun crews can use to orient fire missions. They are typically placed on prominent terrain features and labelled in accordance with FM/BS-802. This practice simplifies communication and improves accuracy, particularly for on-call missions.
• Fire Support Standards: Establishing default parameters for suppression, smoke, and general-purpose fire missions ensures consistency and saves time under pressure. These may include:
  • Rounds, volume, and rate for Immediate Suppression
  • Rounds, volume, and rate for Immediate Smoke
  • Preferred munition types and location methods FM/BS-804 - Set standard fire-support parameters
• Fire Mission Types:
  • Pre-Planned: Coordinated before the operation and often linked to a PPT or TRP. Enables faster delivery due to known parameters.
  • On-Call: Requested dynamically during the mission. Often relies on TRPs or observer data to establish target locations quickly.

Pre-planning these elements helps ensure fire support is available when and where it’s needed, without delaying the momentum of the operation.

Plot target reference points, TRP, on prominent map and terrain features for the purposes of shared known points.

Label TRPs in the format "TRP [group identifier] [number 01–10]", where the distinct group identifier broadly summarises an area of operations, phase, or cardinal direction relative to friendly positions or movements. 

Examples: “TRP N01” or “TRP SE03”.

Plot pre-planned targets, PPT, on likely targets to facilitate fast Block Not Found.

Label the PPTs with the same format as specified in Block Not Found.

Set the following parameters prior to mission start:

• Rounds used, volume and rate of fire for a IMMEDIATE SUPPRESSION mission
• Rounds used, volume and rate of fire for a IMMEDIATE SMOKE mission
• Rounds used, volume and rate of fire for a SUPPRESSION mission
• Preferred method used for target location