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The Fires Brigade Operations and Integrating Processes
z
Develop a response.
z
Refine and validate the course of action.
z
Implement.
3-45. After the analysis is complete, staff members begin synchronization needed to implement the
decision. This synchronization involves collaboration with other staff cells and subordinate staffs and
among commanders. Once the decision on the course of action is made, the FIB current operations
integrating cell issues a fragmentary order directing the implementing actions. It may be written or verbal.
If the decision does not affect the overall operation, this directive may be released by the cell chief in the
form of an update (after coordination). If time permits, another control mechanism is to verify if
subordinates understand critical tasks. Methods for doing this include the confirmation brief and backbrief.
This is done both between commanders and within staff elements to ensure mutual understanding.
ASSESS
3-46. Assessment is continuously monitoring and evaluating the current situation and the progress of an
operation (ADP 3-0). Assessment precedes and guides every activity within the FIB operations process and
concludes each FIB operation or phase of an operation. Assessment helps the FIB commander and his staff
to adjust operations and resources as required, determine when to execute branches and sequels, and make
other critical decisions to ensure current and future operations remain with the mission and desired end
state. Assessment criteria include measures of effectiveness and measures of performance—
z
Measure of Effectiveness. A measure of effectiveness is a criterion used to assess changes in
system behavior, capability, or operational environment that is tied to measuring the attainment
of an end state, achievement of an objective, or creation of an effect (joint publication [JP] 3-0).
Measures of effectiveness are criteria that determine whether the FIB is doing the right things or
are additional or alternative FIB actions required.
z
Measure of Performance. A measure of performance is a criterion used to assess friendly
actions that is tied to measuring task accomplishment (JP 3-0). Measures of performance are
criteria that determine whether the FIB is doing things right—for instance a measure of
performance might ask “were the FIB’s weapons employed as intended on the planned target,
and did the expected physical or functional damage occur?”
3-47. The FIB commander and staff determine measures of effectiveness and measures of performance
during planning. They consider measures of effectiveness and measures of performance as early as mission
analysis, and include them and related guidance in commander and running estimates. The FIB operations
staff officer (S-3) and intelligence staff officer (S-2) have overall responsibility for conducting FIB
assessment activities.
3-48. For more on assessment see ADP 3-0, FM 3-09, FM 3-60, JP 3-0, JP 3-09, and JP 3-60.
SECTION III - FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING AND THE TARGETING PROCESS
3-49. ATTP 5-0.1 provides detailed information on the MDMP. The purpose of this section is to provide
amplifying information for the FIB staff and others who are involved in the fire support planning process.
Fire support planning is integrated with and supports the targeting process without establishing separate
processes or an additional set of steps. Fire support planning and the targeting process are integrated
activities that are mutually supportive.
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Chapter 3
3-50. Targeting is the process of selecting and prioritizing targets and matching the appropriate response to
them, considering operational requirements and capabilities (JP 3-0). The “decide,” “detect,” “deliver,” and
“assess” functions of the targeting process are not phased or sequenced in lock step fashion, rather they
frequently occur simultaneously throughout planning and execution. For example, based on information
received through “detect,” “deliver,” or “assess” actions, decisions may be reconsidered and revised.
TARGETING PROCESS STEPS
DECIDE
3-51. “Decide” is the first function of the targeting process. It should answer the following questions—
z
What targets should be acquired and engaged?
z
When and where are the targets likely to be found?
z
How long will the target remain once acquired?
z
Who or what can locate the targets?
z
What accuracy of target location will be required to attack the target?
z
What are the priorities for surveillance, reconnaissance and TA objectives and asset allocation?
z
What priority intelligence requirements are essential to the targeting effort and how and by when
must the information be obtained, processed, and disseminated?
z
When, where, how, and in what priority should the targets be engaged?
z
What are the measures of performance and measures of effectiveness that determine whether the
target has been successfully attacked and the desired effects generated by doing so?
z
Who or what can engage the targets, and how should the attack be conducted (for example,
number/type of attack elements, and ammunition) to generate intended effects and required
assets/ resources based on commander’s guidance?
z
What or who will obtain assessment or other information required determining the success or
failure of each engagement? Who must receive and process that information, how rapidly, and in
what format?
z
Who has the decisionmaking authority to determine success or failure, and how rapidly must the
decision be made and disseminated?
z
What actions will be required if an engagement is unsuccessful and who has the authority to
direct those actions?
3-52. The “decide” function of the targeting process generally begins with the MDMP as the staff is
developing the operation plan (OPLAN)/OPORD. It does not end when the plan/order is completed; it
continues by continuously validating previous targeting decisions and making new targeting decisions
based on changed circumstances or changed guidance. Based on the commander’s concept of the operation,
intelligence preparation of the battlefield (IPB) is conducted and the staff prepares the surveillance and
reconnaissance plans (if those assets are available to the FIB) and the targeting working group determines
3-14
The Fires Brigade Operations and Integrating Processes
the targets that, if successfully attacked, will contribute to the success of the mission. The targeting working
group recommends how each target should be engaged in terms of the degree and duration of the
commander’s desired effects; constructs a list of high-payoff targets; determines target selection standards;
and prepares the attack guidance matrix for the commander’s approval. Subsequently the targeting working
group prepares a targeting synchronization matrix that includes the high-payoff target list, surveillance,
reconnaissance assets (if available), and TA assets tasked to acquire them, attack resources tasked to attack
them, desired effects and associated measures of performance and measures of effectiveness for
assessment, and the assets tasked to conduct assessment. These targeting process products are briefed to the
commander and his decisions translated into the OPLAN/OPORD and subordinate annexes.
DETECT
3-53. “Detect” is the next critical function of the targeting process. It often begins concurrently with
decision processes, as key information is required to support the decisionmaking process. The S-2 is the
main figure in directing the effort to detect high-payoff targets identified in the decide function of the
targeting process The surveillance and reconnaissance plan is a key link between the MDMP and fire
support planning and targeting. It links acquisition assets to finding specific enemy formations or required
information to answer the commander’s critical information requirements. Named areas of interest and
target areas of interest are the focal points for the surveillance and reconnaissance plans. Execution of the
surveillance and reconnaissance plans begins during preparation and continues throughout execution.
Targets and suspected targets are developed by the intelligence and targeting cell and passed to the fires
cell for comparison with the attack guidance matrix. Those targets that meet established criteria are passed
to appropriate units for attack during execution.
DELIVER
3-54. The “deliver” function occurs primarily during execution, although some inform and influence
activities and cyber electromagnetic activities-related targets may be engaged while the FIB is preparing for
the overall operation.
3-55. Delivery involves fires, which encompass Army indirect fires, air and missile defense, and joint fires.
The integration and synchronization of cyber electromagnetic activities is also a task of the fires
warfighting function.
3-56. The S-3, FSO, and the main command post (CP) fires cell orchestrate the deliver function of the
targeting process for the FIB.
ASSESS
3-57. The “assess” function of the targeting process occurs throughout the operations process but is most
intense during execution. Assessment includes evaluating the operations against measures of performance
and measures of effectiveness. Assessment provides a basis for the FIB commander, S-3 and FSO to
evaluate the contribution fire support efforts have made towards achieving the desired end state. Combat
assessment is the determination of the overall effectiveness of force employment during military
operations. Combat assessment is composed of three major components: (a) battlefield damage assessment;
(b) munitions effectiveness assessment; and (c) reattack recommendation (JP 3-60). Combat assessment
typically focuses on determining the results of weapons engagement (with both lethal and nonlethal
capabilities), and thus is an important component of Army and joint fires and the targeting process.
Battlefield damage assessment determines what was done. Munitions effectiveness assessment determines
how it was done. Reattack recommendation merges the picture of battlefield damage assessment with
3-15
Chapter 3
munitions effectiveness assessment and compares the result with measures of performance and measures of
effectiveness developed during the “decide” function. This assessment continues with a return to the
“decide” function.
3-58. Combat assessment is the determination of the overall effectiveness of force employment during
military operations. Combat assessment is composed of three major components: (a) battlefield damage
assessment; (b) munitions effectiveness assessment; and (c) reattack recommendation (JP 3-60). Combat
assessment typically focuses on determining the results of weapons engagement (with both lethal and
nonlethal capabilities), and thus is an important component of Army and joint fires and the targeting
process. Battlefield damage assessment determines what was done. Munitions effectiveness assessment
determines how it was done. Reattack recommendation merges the picture of battlefield damage
assessment with munitions effectiveness assessment and compares the result with measures of performance
and measures of effectiveness developed during the decide function. This assessment continues with a
return to the “decide” phase.
CONTINUOUS REFINEMENT
3-59. Targeting is continuously refined and adjusted during targeting working group sessions, update
briefings, and during discussions between commanders and staff as the operation unfolds. The targeting
process is cyclical. The command’s battle rhythm determines the frequency of targeting working group
sessions.
3-60. The result of fire support planning is an effective, integrated, executable fire support plan. An
effective fire support plan clearly defines fire support requirements and focuses on achieving the FIB
commander’s desired effects. An effective fire support plan uses all available acquisition and attack assets
and puts the best combination of fire support assets against high-payoff targets s to generate effects that
support the division, corps or other supported higher HQ’s commander’s and the FIB commander's intent.
An integrated fire support plan provides the focus and timing for acquisition and attack systems in
attacking high-payoff targets to generate effects at the point in time and space needed to support the
concept of operation. An integrated fire support plan coordinates and combines with maneuver and other
warfighting functions to maximize the results of each attack in generating desired effects. An executable
fire support plan ties detect and deliver assets to the high-payoff targets and includes subsequent
assessment.
3-61. For an in-depth description of the targeting process see FM 3-60.
THE TARGETING WORKING GROUP/TARGETING BOARD
3-62. A working group is a grouping of predetermined staff representatives who meet to provide analysis,
coordinate, and provide recommendations for a particular purpose or function (ATTP 5-0.1). The targeting
working group is critical to facilitating the targeting process and integrating targeting with FIB and
division, corps, JTF or other supported higher HQ operations. The purpose of the targeting working group
is to focus and synchronize the FIB with division, corps, JTF or other supported higher HQ combat power
and resources towards finding, attacking, and assessing current high-payoff targets by using the D3A
targeting process methodology. Targeting working group success requires focus, participation by all
warfighting functional representatives, preparation by all participants, and the rapid development and
dissemination of required products. The targeting working group—
z
Verifies and updates the high-payoff target list.
z
Verifies updates, and re-tasks available collection assets for each high-payoff target.
3-16
The Fires Brigade Operations and Integrating Processes
z
Recommends delivery systems to engage each target.
z
Confirms that assets have been tasked to assess whether the desired effects have been generated
by attacking the target.
z
Identifies target nominations for attack by division, corps or joint assets.
z
Synchronizes lethal and nonlethal actions (to include cyber electromagnetic activities and inform
and influence activities).
z
Synchronizes fire support, cyber electromagnetic activities, and inform and influence activities
assets to generate desired lethal and nonlethal effects.
3-63. The targeting board is a temporary grouping of selected staff representatives with delegated decision
authority to provide targeting decision recommendations for command approval. When the process or
activity being synchronized requires command approval, a board is the appropriate forum. The targeting
board is usually chaired by the deputy commander or executive officer.
SECTION IV - SURVEILLANCE, RECONNAISSANCE, AND TARGET
ACQUISITION
SURVEILLANCE AND RECONNAISSANCE
3-64. Surveillance is the systematic observation of aerospace, surface, or subsurface areas, places, persons,
or things, by visual, aural, electronic, photographic, or other means (JP 3-0). Reconnaissance is a mission
undertaken to obtain, by visual observation or other detection methods, information about the activities and
resources of an enemy or adversary, or to secure data concerning the meteorological, hydrographic, or
geographic characteristics of a particular area (JP 2-0).
3-65. Without augmentation, the FIB lacks the capability to conduct either surveillance or reconnaissance
activities to support its fires mission. Rather the FIB relies on information from the supported command
HQ. If surveillance or reconnaissance assets are provided to and controlled by the FIB, the FIB employs
those assets in accordance with doctrine found in publications such as FM 2-19.4. Surveillance and
reconnaissance operations allow the FIB to produce intelligence on the enemy and environment (to include
weather, terrain, and civil considerations) necessary to make decisions. The commander integrates
surveillance and reconnaissance assets (if available) with TA radar assets to capitalize on their different
capabilities. He synchronizes reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities with the FIB concept of
operations and the fire support plan of a supported higher HQ. The commander drives the FIB intelligence
warfighting function to provide critical support to all operations, including fire support and inform and
influence activities. The intelligence warfighting function supports planning, decisionmaking, targeting,
and protecting the force. It is a continuous process.
3-66. Surveillance and reconnaissance operations, and TA radars are the primary means of collecting
information used to produce intelligence. A thorough understanding of joint surveillance and
reconnaissance capabilities allows the commander to issue necessary guidance to the S-2 to prepare
surveillance and reconnaissance plans. Surveillance, reconnaissance, and TA assets focus primarily on
collecting information about the enemy and the environment to satisfy the priority intelligence
requirements. In the end, the art of intelligence and its focus on supporting the commander are more
important than any information system. This art includes an understanding of intelligence, analysis, the
enemy, operations, and the commander’s needs.
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Chapter 3
3-67. Intelligence preparation of the battlefield is a systematic process of analyzing and visualizing the
portions of the mission variables of threat/adversary, terrain, weather, and civil considerations in a specific
area of interest and for a specific mission. By applying intelligence preparation of the battlefield,
commanders gain the information necessary to selectively apply and maximize operational effectiveness at
critical points in time and space (FM 2-01.3). IPB is designed to support the staff estimate and MDMP.
Most intelligence requirements are generated by the IPB process and its interrelation with the
decisionmaking process. The FIB commander drives IPB; his entire staff participates with the intelligence
staff in continuous updates. Staff officers develop, validate, and maintain IPB components that relate to
their area of expertise. For more on IPB, see FM 2-01.3.
TARGET ACQUISITION
3-68. Target acquisition is the detection, identification, and location of a target in sufficient detail to permit
the effective employment of weapons (JP 3-60). The goal of the FIB TA effort is to provide timely and
accurate information to enhance the attack of specified targets. TA systems and equipment perform the key
tasks of target detection, location, tracking, identification, classification, and battlefield damage assessment
for fire support operations. Due to the lack of organic surveillance and reconnaissance assets, the FIB
typically relies on external agencies for battlefield damage assessment.
3-69. Sound tactical planning is required to effectively cover the FIB AO with TA assets. FIB TA planning
is an integral part of the MDMP process. This ensures TA assets are fully integrated into FIB support of
combined arms operations.
3-70. The S-2 and main CP fires cell figure prominently in this surveillance, reconnaissance and TA
architecture as principal conduits for the long-range capability to acquire and attack targets throughout the
FIB and/or supported HQ AO. The S-2, with the aid of the intelligence cell and the fires cell elements in
the main CP assesses intelligence reports and information that the FIB intelligence cell has fused to develop
the common operational picture and feed the targeting process. The FIB uses this enemy artillery focused
intelligence in the development and execution of the counterfire program.
3-71. For more on field artillery TA see FM 3-09.12.
TARGET ACQUISITION RADARS
Overview
3-72. The TA platoon of the TAB contains both AN/TPQ-37 and AN/TPQ-48-50-series radars. The TA
platoon provides the supported unit with target intelligence and information based on acquisitions from
threat mortar, artillery, and rocket systems to facilitate protection measures and enable counterfire mission
processing. This platoon can also support adjust fire and register mortars and artillery. This organization is
capable of supporting FIB TA requirements. The TA platoon or individual radar sections may be
augmented with additional assets to create a tailored force package based on the tactical situation. In a
deployed status, the FIB normally will control the employment of the TA platoon and any additional
supporting counterfire radars and systems supporting the FIB mission.
3-73. The primary mission of the AN/TPQ-37 radar is to detect and locate enemy mortars, artillery, and
rockets quickly and accurately enough to permit immediate engagement. The Q-37 is optimized to locate
longer-range, low-angle, higher velocity weapons such as long-range artillery and rockets. However, it will
also locate short-range, high-angle, lower velocity weapons as well. The Q-37 has a minimum range of
three km and a maximum range of 50 km. For artillery, the higher probability of detection extends out to
approximately 30 km.
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The Fires Brigade Operations and Integrating Processes
3-74. The primary mission of the AN/TPQ-48-50-series radar is to detect, locate, and report enemy indirect
mortar fires to enable protection. The systems must provide an accurate location to the origin of the fires.
As a follow on to this mission, an impact prediction is required to facilitate situational awareness of enemy
fires and will be included in the target report. The system provides 360-degree detection and location of
firing weapons at ranges from 500 meters to 10 km.
3-75. For more on field artillery TA radars and their employment see FM 3-09.12.
Radar Employment
3-76. When the FIB is part of division, corps, JTF or other supported unit—
z
The FIB TA assets must be integrated into the fires planning process and the MDMP if TA
assets are to be effectively employed. TA planning starts when the mission is received and
continues throughout the entire D3A process. The targeting officer must be focused on the
requirements for TA systems throughout this process.
z
The supported command’s FSO, fires cell/element planners, and the FIB commander
recommend an organization for combat for the supported command’s radar assets to meet the
supported commander’s requirements and the FIB’s mission.
3-77. Mission command methodologies in such circumstances include but are not limited to centralized
control, decentralized control and a combination of centralized and decentralized control.
Centralized control at the FIB
3-78. TA assets may be held under the centralized control of the FIB specifically with the brigade
commander. Centralized control (the FIB plans the entire radar coverage plan for the division or other
supported command) optimizes coverage to support the commander's intent. When the FIB has control of
all TA assets for the supported command, the organic BCT fires battalion should provide the target
processing element from their TAB with its associated equipment to the BCT fires cells. BCT fires cells do
not have sufficient quick reaction organic target processing elements and thus do not have target processing
capability without augmentation. The fire direction center of the fires battalion has this capability.
Regardless of which HQ exercises control, FIB subordinate or BCT organic fires battalions may be tasked
to provide logistical, survey, and security support because of the dispersal of radars across the BCT AO.
Under FIB centralized control, the FIB S-2, S-3 and operations and counterfire, target processing and fire
control elements in the FIB main CP work with the FIB subordinate and BCT organic fires battalion S-2s
and targeting officers and fires battalion operations center personnel to—
z
Designate a general position area, sector of search, and zones for each of the radars.
z
Establish cueing guidance.
z
Designate cueing agents.
z
Control radar movement.
z
Designates who receives radar targets.
Decentralized Control
3-79. Decentralized control can be accomplished by attaching radars to a FIB subordinate battalion or
possibly fires battalion batteries and leaving the BCT organic fires battalion radars within those battalions.
3-19
Chapter 3
Under decentralized control, TA assets are provided to subordinate units for their direct control and
employment. When attached, the radar is considered an integral part of the support package to the battalion.
Fires battalion S-2s, in conjunction with targeting officers, control the radar executing the same
responsibilities as the FIB S-2, S-3, and target processing and fire control elements. The FIB S-3 and S-2
coordinate mission requirements and priorities with the fires battalion S-2 based on the FIB, division or
other higher HQ commander's guidance and intent.
A Combination of Centralized and Decentralized Control
3-80. Any combination of centralized and decentralized OPCON of radars may be used according to the
situation. For example, one of the FIB’s Q-37 radars may be placed under the control of a reinforcing
Multiple Launch Rocket System battalion or other fire unit from the division or corps based on mission
requirements and the tactical situation, while the remaining Q-37 radars are kept under control of the FIB.
3-81. Although the FIB has organic radars, the division or other higher HQ may task a BCT to cover
division and corps target areas of interest within the BCT AO with BCT surveillance, reconnaissance and
TA assets, including the BCT’s organic fires battalion’s radars.
3-82. Reinforcing units from a FIB may or may not require both TA assets and additional processing
capability to perform counterfire effectively. The BCT fires battalion must ensure the reinforcing FIB unit
has adequate personnel and materiel resources to accomplish any counterfire mission assigned. The FIB
TAB target processing section should go with the radar assets to the FIB reinforcing unit assigned a
counterfire mission for control and employment expertise. Closely linked to BCT maneuver through the
fires cell, the FSO, and organic fires battalion S-3 must provide and coordinate the following for the
reinforcing FIB unit—
z
Commander’s guidance for counterfire, to include required search zones and cueing guidance.
z
Intelligence support from division and corps or other supported HQ controlled assets.
Counterfire targets from military intelligence battalion assets, FIB artillery target intelligence
files, and those of higher HQ must be expeditiously forwarded to the BCT fires cells and organic
fires battalions.
z
Terrain management to include position areas for BCT field artillery and acquisition assets
forward in the division, corps, or other supported command’s AO.
z
Traffic and movement priorities for units and ammunition.
z
Ammunition forecasts and other sustainment requirements.
z
Survey and meteorological support for BCT field artillery units.
3-83. An automated (digital) capability must be provided to non-automated multinational field artillery
brigades to maximize communications with Firefinder radars and the BCT organic fires battalion. If
available, the BCT organic fires battalion should provide adequate AFATDS devices with operators to the
supporting FIB.
3-20
The Fires Brigade Operations and Integrating Processes
SECTION V - KEY CONTINUING ACTIVITIES
FIRE SUPPORT COORDINATION
3-84. Fire support coordination is the planning and executing of fire so that targets are adequately covered
by a suitable weapon or group of weapons (JP 3-09). Fire support requires significant coordination. When
conducting fire support missions in the unassigned areas of the division, corps, or other supported
command’s AO, most FIB activities either originate from or take place in another brigade’s AO. Artillery
and UAS under the FIB control may pass through the airspace of multiple brigades. FIB operations in or
near a brigade AO must be coordinated with the affected brigade before the FIB moves into or through the
affected brigade AO. For FIB units operating in another brigade’s AO, this includes where the FIB can be
positioned to accomplish its mission effectively without impeding the mission of the brigade controlling the
AO. Those brigades need to know what units that are not directly under their control are operating in their
AO. Those brigades also need to know which units are operating adjacent to their AO, especially in a
noncontiguous environment. Area support for FIBs and their subordinate units must be coordinated before
execution. This support includes, but is not limited to, Class I, III, and V resupply, maintenance, vehicle
and personnel recovery, and medical evacuation. FIB units operating near a brigade AO are responsible for
their own security. For those FIB units operating within another brigade’s AO, security is the responsibility
of that brigade, but it must be coordinated. If the FIB must fire from or be given control of a UAS from
another brigade’s AO, the launch and recovery site and airspace management must be coordinated. UAS
may be required to pass through multiple brigades to reach their specified named areas of interest. Passage
of the unmanned aircraft must be coordinated not only to deconflict aircraft controlling frequencies, but
also to ensure that two aircraft do not attempt to occupy the same space at the same time. Reporting
procedures used by the FIB and its subordinate units operating in or near another brigade are also critical.
The FIB subordinate units must know and understand what information is critical and how to report it to
both the FIB and the affected brigade.
3-85. The FIB must also coordinate with the division, corps, JTF, or other supported command and other
brigades that may operate in the supported command’s unassigned areas (for example, a battlefield
surveillance brigade, combat aviation brigade, or special operations forces). The positioning of units, flight
plans of both manned and unmanned aircraft, and targets must all be deconflicted. This helps clear fires,
prevents compromise of surveillance and reconnaissance assets, and limits fratricide. In addition to United
States military units, coordination should be made with other government agencies and nongovernmental
agencies that may operate in unassigned areas. This serves to enhance the exchange of information and
prevents a conflict between the FIB and the other agencies.
3-86. Fire support coordination ensures the synchronization of delivery assets to match the right attack
means with the correct target to deliver the commander’s desired effects at the precise time and location
needed to support FIB and division, corps or other supported higher HQ operation. To achieve the best
possible synchronization of all fire support, the following guidelines for coordination are recommended—
z
Position fire delivery units effectively.
z
Coordinate use of NSFS and planned and immediate CAS to support the commander’s intent
and concept of operations.
z
Ensure that FSOs and observers know the exact locations of maneuver boundaries and other
FSCMs.
3-21
Chapter 3
z
Position observers in redundancy where they can see their assigned targets and trigger points,
communicate with fire support assets, and respond to maneuver commander.
z
Establish field artillery final protective fires and priority targets.
z
Plan field artillery illumination to facilitate direct fire during limited visibility.
z
Depending upon METT-TC, provide common survey and meteorological data for units attached
to or under the OPCON or TACON of the FIB or FIB supported units for which the FIB is
acting as force field artillery HQ.
z
Use the fire support execution matrix to execute fire support and remain flexible to branches or
sequels to the current plan.
z
Coordinate with the fires battalion tactical operations centers to develop the attack guidance
matrix using the munitions effects database in AFATDS. Compute ammunition requirements
needed for generating desired effects via the attack of expected enemy target categories with fire
support. Provide this assessment to the commander so that he can formulate his attack guidance.
Also, compute ammunition requirements and identify issues that require the FIB commander’s
attention or additional guidance, such as fire support-related essential tasks that may be
unsupportable.
z
Disseminate target priorities to the FIB staff and through to the lowest levels of subordinate fire
support organizations and supported maneuver unit mortars.
z
Develop and disseminate field artillery-delivered scatterable mine safety boxes in coordination
with the FIB and supported higher HQ engineer and S-3/assistant chief of staff, operations
officer (G-3).
z
State the FIB and supported higher HQ commander’s attack guidance by defining “how (the
system(s) identified to engage the target)” “when,” and with what restrictions the commander
wants to attack different targets and identify the targeting priorities. The data should be entered
into the AFATDS database.
z
Require refinement by lower echelons to be completed by an established cut-off time.
z
Verify or correct target locations and trigger points during refinement.
z
Recommend the risk the FIB and the supported higher HQ commander should be willing to
accept concerning delivery of indirect fires for maneuver units in close contact. Calculate risk-
estimate distances.
z
Consider limiting the number of targets to 10 to 15 per each FIB supported battalion, with no
more than 45 to 60 for each fires battalion within the FIB.
z
Use the fire support execution matrix to brief the fire support portion of the OPORD during a
combined arms rehearsal.
z
Rehearse the fire support portion of the OPORD directly from the fire support execution matrix.
z
For units attached to or under the OPCON or TACON of the FIB or supported by the FIB,
conduct rehearsals with the actual Soldiers who will execute fire support tasks.
3-22
The Fires Brigade Operations and Integrating Processes
z
Ensure methods for battle tracking and clearance of indirect fires are clearly understood by fires
cells and maneuver commanders.
z
Verify the range of Q-36, Q-37 and Q-48-50 series radars (includes those of units attached to or
under the OPCON or TACON of the FIB or FIB supported units for which the FIB is acting as
force field artillery HQ), field artillery, and mortar coverage based on the effects desired and
appropriate shell/fuze combinations.
z
Prioritize requirements for Q-36, Q-37 and Q-48 radars (includes those of units attached to the
FIB or FIB supported units for which the FIB is acting as force field artillery HQ) and allocate
radar zones to reflect the developed situation template, protection priorities, and the scheme of
maneuver. Insure radar zones are within the coverage and trajectory arc of the radar systems
(radars will allocate zones to the main effort and, based on location, this can violate the “three on
a beam rule”). For details, see FM 3-09.12.
z
Explain fire support combat power in terms of the required effects to be generated for the
operation. The supported maneuver commander then better understands fire support
contributions to the course of action and scheme of maneuver. Useful information may also
include the number and type of missions available/possible. Subordinate fires units should be
able inform their supported commander of battery/battalion/mortar volleys available by the type
of ammunition and the effects expected; minutes of smoke and/or illumination available and
allocation; number of available family of scatterable mines by type, size, density, and safety
zone; and other information depending upon METT-TC.
CLEARANCE OF FIRES
3-87. Clearance of fires is the process of approving or obtaining approval to attack targets with fires within
and outside the boundaries of the supported unit for which the fires are provided (FM 3-09). The FIB
commander is responsible for the clearance of fires within his assigned AO or as directed by the FIB
supported commander. Clearance of fires ensures fires will attack enemy capabilities without resulting in
casualties to friendly forces and noncombatants. Within his own AO, the FIB commander establishes all
appropriate FSCMs. There are three exceptions—
z
The FIB may not use munitions within its own AO without receiving appropriate clearance if the
effects of those munitions extend beyond its AO. For example, if the FIB wants to use smoke, its
effects cannot cross boundaries into another AO unless cleared with the affected adjacent unit.
z
Higher HQ may explicitly restrict the use of certain munitions, such as long-duration scatterable
mines, within an AO or parts of an AO.
z
Higher HQ may impose restrictive FSCMs within an AO to protect some asset or facility such as
a no-fire area around a camp that is housing dislocated civilians.
3-88. The FIB commander may not employ indirect fires across boundaries without receiving clearance
from the unit into whose AO the fires will affect. He may employ direct fires across boundaries without
clearance at specific point targets that are clearly and positively identified as enemy.
THREE STEPS IN THE CLEARANCE OF FIRES
3-89. Three steps in the clearance of fires include the use of maneuver control measures, proper use of
FSCMs, and pre-clearance.
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Chapter 3
Step One
3-90. The first step in the clearance of fires is the use of maneuver control measures described in FM 3-90.
Step Two
3-91. The second step in the clearance of fires is the proper use of FSCMs. Within his own AO, the FIB
commander establishes all appropriate FSCMs based on recommendations by the FSO. The FSO’s
recommendations are based on the supported higher HQ commander’s and FIB commander’s guidance,
location of friendly forces, the concept of operation, and anticipated enemy actions. Disseminate the
location of FSCMs by message and/or overlay through maneuver and fire support channels to higher,
lower, adjacent, and supporting units. Typically, FSCMs are further disseminated to each level of
command, to include the establishing command and all concerned fire support units and staff. Knowledge
of the various FSCMs is necessary for the effective use of fire support.
3-92. All FSCMs must complement the FIB as well as the division, corps or other supported higher HQ
commander’s concept of operations. The size of supported command subordinate units’ (such as those of
BCTs, the FIB, and other support brigades) AOs are a key consideration in the placement of FSCMs, which
in turn influence the allocation of TA and other fire support assets. The supported commander establishes a
change to a FSCM through his fires cell at the recommendation of his S-3 and FSO. The supported
command’s fires cell informs the FIB fires cell of the change and the effective date-time group. Conditions
that dictate the change of a FSCM should be coordinated with the fires cell’s air defense airspace
management/brigade aviation element. As conditions are met, the new FSCM effective time can be
projected and announced. Following direction to execute the change, the operations and counterfire element
should confirm with the FSO that the FIB fires cell’s air defense airspace management/brigade aviation
element have informed the appropriate control nodes. This action ensures that affected air support is aware
of new FSCM locations and that both associated fire support coordination and airspace positive control
measures are being followed.
3-93. FSCMs are either permissive or restrictive. In essence, the primary purpose of a permissive FSCM is
to facilitate the attack of targets by reducing the coordination necessary for the clearance of fires.
3-94. The establishment of a restrictive measure imposes certain requirements for specific coordination
before the engagement of those targets affected by the measure. Therefore, the primary purpose of a
restrictive measure is to provide safeguards for friendly forces for friendly forces and noncombatants,
facilities, or terrain.
3-95. Permissive FSCMs should be established far enough out to protect ground forces. Permissive FSCMs
should be established to maximize the portion of the AO in which targets can be engaged with minimal
clearance. Measures like the coordinated fire line should be established far enough out, but only far enough
out to protect ground forces. Restrictive measures should not remain in effect for the entire operation
without being checked and updated. Restrictive measures should be established with an effective date-time
group and a projected cancellation date-time group. No-fire areas should be kept as small as possible to
avoid creating safe havens for enemy forces. During the MDMP, specific criteria should be developed to
trigger the changing of FSCMs.
3-96. FSCMs are described in FM 3-09 and JP 3-09.
3-97. Once established, FSCMs are displayed on maps, firing charts, and overlays, and are stored in
computers. FSCM portrayal includes, at a minimum, the appropriate graphic, the abbreviation for the
3-24
The Fires Brigade Operations and Integrating Processes
measure, the establishing HQ, and the effective date-time group. Often, the date-time group is shown as a
“from-to” time. Usually, FSCMs are labeled at each end of a line or within the graphic, space permitting.
3-98. The FIB S-3, FSO, and fires cell coordinate all fire support affecting the area of operations for the
FIB, including that requested by the supported unit. The S-3 and FSO ensure that fire support will not
jeopardize troop safety, will interface with other fire support means, and/or will not disrupt adjacent unit
operations.
3-99. FSCMs help the FIB S-3, FSO, and fires cell in the clearance of fires. FSCMs facilitate the rapid
engagement of targets and, at the same time, provide safeguards for friendly forces. Before operations start
in an overseas theater, both joint force and component staff members must verify the status of FSCMs in
multinational operations.
3-100. Clearance of fires may be accomplished through staff processes, through control measures
(including FSCMs), by embedding them in automated control systems, and through active or passive
recognition systems. During planning and execution, the FIB commander may use all of these means in
various combinations to set the conditions for clearance of fires. Even with automated systems, clearance of
fires remains a command responsibility at every level, and commanders must assess the risk and decide the
extent of reliance on automated systems to assist in the clearance of fires.
Step Three
3-101. The third step in the clearance of fires is to make a determination as to which fires will be
considered cleared in advance. In some very specific instances, fires can be cleared during the planning
phase of the operations process such as—
z
Fires into a planned call for fire zone resulting from a radar acquisition from that planned call for
fire zone.
z
Fires on a planned target, with a definable trigger, against a specific enemy, and according to the
scheme of fires.
CLEARANCE OF FIRES DRILL
3-102. Clearance of fires typically occurs in the operations and counterfire cell of the main CP. A
clearance of fires drill should be a part of all CP standing operating procedures. Fire support requests can
come from many channels. The best method is a redundant drill where a call for clearance is transmitted
over two nets: the fire support net and a maneuver net. Initiating the drill is the responsibility of the S-3.
Staff members who may be required to participate in the clearance of fires drill include the FSO and key
fires cell personnel. The staff cells and subordinate elements required to participate in the clearance of fire
drill depend on the operational environment within which the FIB is operating and should be included in
the tactical SOP. For example, clearance of fires in an urban environment is complicated; rules of
engagement must be adhered to and collateral damage considered.
3-103. Positive clearance of fires is normally facilitated through prior planning, rehearsals, and careful
placement of FSCMs. However, the clearance of targets of opportunity often presents challenges. Fires on
targets of opportunity must be delivered on short notice without undue delay and without jeopardizing
friendly force security. For positive clearance of fires, the following should be obtained—
z
Best available method of target location.
3-25
Chapter 3
z
Positive identification of targets as enemy.
z
Eyes on target, if at all possible.
z
Clearances from appropriate external elements if target is outside unit boundaries.
AIRSPACE COMMAND AND CONTROL
3-104. FIB airspace command and control involves detailed coordination and integration to enable
effective use of CAS, indirect fire, organic and augmenting air defense artillery, tactical fire and maneuver
operations, and Army aviation. FIB commanders, FSOs, fires cells, air liaison officers, and forward air
controllers directly involved in localized combat operations perform airspace command and control
functions established by higher echelons such as the division and corps airspace command and control
elements.
3-105. The S-3 and FSO have overall responsibility for coordinating, deconflicting, and managing
designated airspace. The fire cell’s air defense airspace management is the staff organization responsible
for acquiring the common operational picture and integrating the FIB airspace for combat operations. Other
staff elements needed to plan and execute airspace command and control for the FIB commander include
the intelligence and targeting cell, the fires cell, and the operations and counterfire cells elements (all
located in the FIB main CP).
3-106. FIB commanders exercise airspace command and control within their assigned areas through the
integration of positive and procedural control. Both methods of control are fully compatible and should be
used in concert to perform airspace command and control effectively. Typically, many positive and
procedural control measures will be directed by division, corps, or other higher command authority.
3-107. Further information on airspace command and control can be found in FM 3-52 and FM 3-52.2.
SECTION VI - SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
THE FIRES BRIGADE IN EARLY ENTRY OPERATIONS
3-108. Each early-entry operation situation or contingency mission may demand different requirements
depending on the specific METT-TC and the division, corps or other supported command’s AO. During
early-entry operations the FIB may—
z
Be sequenced in the deployment to arrive as soon as possible after the initial BCT and the
division, corps or other supported command early entry CP or the airhead or beachhead is
secure.
z
Organize its own early-entry CP to control all FIB units committed to the current operation, and
conduct those critical control functions required to support the division, corps or other supported
HQ in tactical operations as the FIB initially deploys into an unsecured area. The FIB early entry
CP serves as the FIB’s control link early in the deployment between the FIB’s organic, assigned
and attached forces on the ground, in the air, and at home station and the higher HQ. The early
entry CP coordinates fire support for the division, corps, JTF, or other supported command and
synchronizes the flow of follow-on FIB attached or supporting units into the AO and phases
them into the supported HQ’s fight. It also begins initial planning for the conduct of future fire
support to the supported command’s operations (branches and sequels).
3-26
The Fires Brigade Operations and Integrating Processes
z
Provide additional radar coverage for BCTs to support the maneuver of their forces and allow
movement of their radar(s) (for example, to allow repositioning of BCT assets during airhead
expansion).
z
In airborne/air assault operations, FIB assets may be positioned to support the airdrop/air assault
force, attack targets in support of shaping operations, suppress bypassed enemy concentrations
and facilitate future fire support operations. A FIB employing C-130 and CH-47 transportable
fires assets such as the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System or M777-series cannon delivery
assets is well suited for this purpose. A FIB may also provide reinforcing fires to BCT organic
fires battalions as the BCT moves away from the landing zone/airhead or to provide fires in
general support (GS) of the airborne/air assault force as a whole.
z
In amphibious operations FIB subordinate units may be dispersed throughout the assault
elements of the landing force and subsequently be used to provide reinforcing fires to BCT
organic fires battalions or to Marine Corps field artillery battalions as they move farther inland
away from the beachhead and/or to provide fires in general support to the landing force as a
whole.
THE FIRES BRIGADE ROLE IN JOINT AIR ATTACK TEAM OPERATIONS
3-109. A joint air attack team is a combination of attack and/or scout rotary-wing aircraft and fixed-wing
CAS aircraft operating together to locate and attack high-priority targets and other targets of opportunity.
The JAAT normally operates as a coordinated effort supported by fire support, air defense artillery, naval
surface fire support, surveillance and reconnaissance systems, electronic warfare systems, and ground
maneuver forces against enemy forces. Joint terminal attack controllers may perform duties as directed by
the air mission commander in support of the ground commander’s scheme of maneuver (JP 3-09.3). JAAT
is a method of employment, not a mission. For example—
z
Army and Marine Corps attack helicopters provide fires, TA, mission coordination, and mutual
defense. They are aerial maneuver units capable of rapid reaction and are not restricted by
terrain. Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force fixed-wing aircraft can achieve a synergistic effect
when combined with attack helicopters.
z
Indirect fire assets augment the other fires of JAAT operations. These fires support decisive,
shaping and counterfire operations. Fires cells develop supporting joint suppression of enemy air
defenses (J-SEAD) plans that support aircraft ingress and egress and necessary FSCMs to allow
the simultaneous attack by aircraft and indirect fires.
3-110. JAAT is a method of employment, not a mission. JAAT fires are integrated, mutually supportive,
and synergistic, not simply deconflicted. JAAT fires are integrated, mutually supportive, and synergistic,
not simply deconflicted. The land force commander typically determines when to employ a JAAT but any
commander (air, land, or maritime) may request one. JAAT can be employed anywhere on the battlefield
across the spectrum of operations. CAS procedures may/may not be required depending on the proximity of
friendly forces and requirement for detailed integration.
3-111. Usually a JAAT mission is planned but variations can be quickly organized based on the situation
and available control means. Normally, the JAAT is employed close to friendly troops as an integrated
member of the combined arms team. However, a JAAT can operate independently, away from ground
units. The JAAT is most effective against moving targets in open areas. It is least effective when attacking
targets that are in camouflaged, dug-in positions.
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Chapter 3
3-112. The maneuver commander has the responsibility for integrating JAAT missions into his plan. The
requesting commander’s staff plans for, organizes, and coordinates JAAT operations to support this plan.
Note: In this context the “maneuver commander” is any commander with overall command responsibilities
within an AO.
3-113. The commanders involved with a JAAT include—
z
The supported commander (requesting commander, normally a FIB supported maneuver
commander) determines when to employ a JAAT, requests the assets and integrates the JAAT,
other combat units, and supporting fires (for example, those provided by the FIB) into his
operation. In this case, the FIB also provides fires supporting the JAAT operation. At times, the
FIB commander may also be the supported commander (for example, during stability operations
when the FIB is assigned an AO by its higher HQ).
z
The aviation commander who coordinates the JAAT and makes the tactical plan.
z
The air mission commander who executes the JAAT engagement (the aviation commander and
the air mission commander may be the same person).
3-114. Designation of a mission commander occurs after coordination between the requesting commander
and supporting commanders. The mission commander is responsible for the planning, coordinating, and
execution of the JAAT. The mission commander has TACON of JAAT assets to support the commander’s
plan. See ATTP 3-09.32 for additional information on JAAT.
PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS FOR JATT OPERATIONS
3-115. The FIB staff identifies the requirement for JAAT planning through their IPB. Through this
analytical approach, appropriate targets and target areas for employment by a JAAT are nominated. The
identification of key intelligence triggers events signal the buildup of a likely enemy target and are essential
to effective JAAT employment. JAAT mission assignment considerations include the following—
z
Massed enemy armored and/or mechanized vehicles.
z
Whether the enemy is on the move.
z
Availability of JAAT assets.
z
Whether the enemy can be flanked.
z
Whether local air superiority can be seized.
z
Whether enemy helicopters can be suppressed.
z
Likely offensive operations include counterattacks, exploitations, and pursuits.
z
Likely defensive operations include reinforcement of committed ground maneuver units and
destruction of enemy penetrations.
z
Strike operations to attack follow-on elements.
3-28
The Fires Brigade Operations and Integrating Processes
3-116. The brigade should be the lowest echelon at which a joint air attack is planned. Coordination with
the appropriate maneuver battalion is required if the JAAT is to be employed in the battalion’s sector;
execution may be handed off to the battalion.
3-117. The coordination process for JAAT operations takes place in the FIB fires cell under the
supervision of the S-3, FSO, ALO, and FIB aviation liaison officer (if provided).
3-118. The S-3, FSO and fires cell determine the need, availability, and positioning of artillery,
commensurate with the enemy update, to support the JAAT. They coordinate with ALO and Army aviation
liaison officer (if provided) to obtain radio frequencies and call signs for the JAAT, to deconflict aviation
and CAS initial positions from artillery positions, and for development of airspace coordination areas to
support the mission. The S-3, FSO and fires cell also—
z
Determine the requirement for SEAD.
z
Coordinate for marking rounds in the target area with the JAAT commander and forward air
controller.
z
Consider the use of Firefinder radar critical friendly zones (CFZ) to protect attack helicopters in
their battle positions.
z
Consider use of precision/guided/smart munitions to minimize target obscuration that might
adversely affect pilot view of the target.
z
Determine when and how priorities of fires shift.
z
Recommend and integrate FSCMs to enhance the success of the mission. Airspace control areas
are coordinated with the ALO and supporting air and missile defense personnel.
z
Determine and disseminate pulse repetition frequency codes.
z
Establish a quick fire channel if necessary.
PREPARATION FOR JATT OPERATIONS
3-119. The preparation phase includes briefing the plan and ensuring dissemination of the plan to
subordinate units that may have an impact on the mission, reconnaissance, and rehearsal.
3-120. The aviation commander, after completing his reconnaissance, provides feedback to the ALO,
FSO, and Army aviation liaison officer to the FIB (if provided). If refinements to the plan are needed, they
are made and disseminated expeditiously.
3-121. Rehearsals are crucial to check communications channels, routes, and battle positions; time
required to move assets forward, graphical control measures; and the fire plan. The JAAT rehearsal
participants should include—
z
Aviation commander (JAAT commander).
z
Attack helicopter unit leader.
z
FSO (may require supported maneuver unit FSO).
z
ALO.
3-29
Chapter 3
z
Army aviation liaison officer to the FIB (if provided).
z
Fires battalions and possibly the battery fire direction centers.
z
Air observers (if available).
EXECUTION OF JATT OPERATIONS
3-122. During the execution phase, the aviation commander is the director and coordinator of the total
team effort.
3-123. En route to the target or engagement area, the aviation commander contacts the ground commander
for a tactical update. The aviation commander should talk directly to all fire support assets involved in the
JAAT operation. The ground commander’s staff monitors the appropriate nets to keep abreast of the
JAAT operation and to help the aviation commander as needed.
3-124. Applying indirect fires, joint fires, and Army aviation against the same target set cannot be
accomplished without a detailed plan for airspace command and control. Airspace command and
control requirements to execute a JAAT are complicated and must be fully developed, distributed,
and rehearsed. Air corridors, airspace control area, initial points, and battle positions must all be
included in the airspace command and control plan. Rehearsing this plan is essential to a successful JAAT
operation.
3-125. See FM 3-09.32 and FM 3-04.126 for additional information on JAAT planning and execution.
FIRES BRIGADE SUPPRESSION OF ENEMY AIR DEFENSES
3-126. Suppression of enemy air defenses is activity that neutralizes, destroys, or temporarily degrades
surface-based enemy air defenses by destructive and/or disruptive means (JP 3-01). The effective
employment of air assets gives the FIB commander a powerful source of fires. Army aviation and the air
platforms of other services, particularly the Air Force, enable the ground commander to quickly influence
operations and to add depth to the battlefield.
REQUIREMENT FOR SEAD
3-127. The availability of fires from air assets also gives the FIB commander the corresponding
responsibility to protect those assets. This obligation is significant in view of the increasingly sophisticated
threat that faces U.S. forces throughout the operational environment. Enemy forces have the capability to
field effective integrated air defense networks. These networks, consisting of weapon systems, radars, and
control nodes, present a formidable all-altitude protection umbrella.
3-128. The most effective enemy air defense systems will be on the high-intensity battlefield. Enemy air
defense capabilities in mid- and low-intensity environments also pose a significant threat to U.S. air assets.
Friendly air assets must be able to survive to contribute their full combat potential. SEAD is a critical
function that must be accomplished quickly and efficiently.
3-129. SEAD operations must be synchronized with elements of the fire support system and with
members of the joint and combined arms team to produce maximum combat power. Unity of effort is
essential in this endeavor. Synchronization of fire support resources requires detailed planning and
coordination and precise timing.
3-30
The Fires Brigade Operations and Integrating Processes
INITIATING THE SEAD PROCESS
3-130. The SEAD process starts with the Army or Air Force unit that requests air operations. First
consideration is given to those suppression means organic to or available to the requesting unit. When
SEAD requirements exceed the availability or capability of those means, the theater air control system or
Army air-ground system structure is used to request or coordinate joint support.
3-131. SEAD is an integral part of air or aviation mission planning. SEAD requests are processed through
the appropriate Army fires cell channels. The fires cell at each echelon is configured to plan, coordinate,
and execute responsibilities inherent in SEAD operations. Requests from subordinate Army echelons are
consolidated, reviewed, prioritized, and scheduled for execution by available Army assets. Targets
exceeding Army capabilities are nominated and forwarded through channels to the air component
commander. For example, requests to the U.S. Air Force are sent through the supporting air support
operations center. Once approved, the schedule and other pertinent information are returned through the
same channels to the requesting Army echelon.
3-132. The Army also responds to Air Force-generated requests for Army SEAD to support air missions
in accordance with established guidelines and priorities. As with Army-initiated SEAD requests, air
component requests are processed through appropriate Army channels to the supporting units. The FSO and
fires cell at each echelon coordinates the mission and directs the SEAD effort. The FSO and fires cell also
assess the effectiveness of Army SEAD to ensure that results are forwarded to the requesting command.
SEAD PLANNING AND EXECUTION
3-133. At the FIB the S-3 and FSO direct SEAD operations through the functioning of the FIB fires cell.
SEAD operations require the coordination of all fire support means, as well as electronic warfare
capabilities. The S-2, in conjunction with the FIB’s intelligence cell, gives the S-3, FSO, and fires cell
information on the projected enemy defense threat. This data, plus airspace use information, is integrated
into the SEAD plan by the fires cell.
3-134. SEAD is supported by the coordinated use of air and ground based acquisition platforms, which
include helicopter and fixed-wing assets. Disruptive efforts are planned to complement destructive efforts
and include the full array joint and Army electronic warfare capabilities. Electronic warfare systems are
used to degrade jammable threats and to neutralize enemy systems when destruction is not feasible. To
prevent fratricide of friendly air and missile defense radars, the FIB must provide friendly emitter order of
battle and location information for inclusion in the airspace control order.
3-135. The division, corps, JTF, or other FIB supported HQ plan and conduct localized suppression to
protect aircraft that are required to penetrate the forward line of own troops. This entails the suppression of
enemy air defense systems along the routes to (ingress) and from (egress) the attack objective as well as
systems surrounding the objective when they are within range of Army attack means. A corridor may have
to be established to protect helicopters participating in air assault operations.
SEAD TARGETING
3-136. The targeting process for SEAD is the same as for any other target set. The targeting of enemy air
defense weapons is conducted within the framework of the D3A approach to targeting and battle
management. The product of the targeting process (that is, the successful conduct of SEAD) must
accomplish one or all of the following—
3-31
Chapter 3
z
Support air or aviation assets engaged in contact with the enemy air defense threat.
z
Fulfill some aspect of the commander's plan.
z
Be synchronized with the air operation.
z
Be capable of sustaining its effort.
JOINT SUPPRESSION OF ENEMY AIR DEFENSES
3-137. Joint suppression of enemy air defenses is a broad term that includes all suppression of enemy air
defense activities provided by one component of the joint force in support of another (JP 3-01). That
portion of SEAD operations requires joint interaction to suppress enemy surface-to-air defenses having
influence at the operational and tactical levels. The greatest indirect fire suppression capability of ground
and naval forces is against those threats that can be engaged by observed fire.
3-138. The FIB S-3, FSO, and fires cell planners ensure that SEAD target queries are conducted for each
air interdiction and planned CAS request. Attack of SEAD targets must be synchronized with the planned
airstrike. The sources for development of SEAD targets in decisive operations are primarily ground
observers and Army electronic, imagery, or templating techniques. SEAD targets to be suppressed for air
interdiction missions are provided primarily by air support reconnaissance flight reports or other aircraft
reports available from intelligence section/cell/element of the battlefield coordination detachment.
3-139. SEAD targets are attacked either as acquired or as part of a scheduled SEAD program. The FIB S-
3, FSO, and fires cell planners coordinate the synchronization of SEAD programs with the ALO and the
Army aviation liaison officer to the FIB (if provided).
3-140. SEAD targeting should cover aircraft ingress and egress routes. This information is available from
the appropriate level ALO or may be found in the air tasking order. J-SEAD operations can be
accomplished through destructive and disruptive means.
Destructive Means
3-141. Destructive means seek the destruction of the target system or operating personnel. The effects are
cumulative and increase aircraft survivability, but destructive means may place large demands on the
available combat power of the division, corps, JTF, or other FIB supported command.
Disruptive Means
3-142. Disruptive means temporarily deny, degrade, deceive, delay, or neutralize enemy air defense
systems to increase aircraft survivability. Disruptive means are either active or passive—
z
Active means include electronic attack; expendables (chaff, flares, and decoys); tactics such as
deception, avoidance, or evasive flight profiles; and UAS.
z
Passive means include emission control, camouflage, infrared shielding, warning receivers, and
material design features.
3-143. For more information on SEAD see FM 3-01.4.
3-32
The Fires Brigade Operations and Integrating Processes
TERRAIN MANAGEMENT
3-144. Terrain management is primarily the responsibility of the unit that controls the ground in a
particular area or sector. This unit is usually an Army maneuver unit, however, especially during stability
operations, the controlling agency could be a host nation government or military force, or a United Nations-
affiliated military force or civilian relief organization.
3-145. The S-3, FSO, and fires cell elements assist the FIB supported HQ S-3/G-3 with terrain
management for fire support assets. The S-3 and FSO provide the overall supervision and coordination to
ensure that all fire support related terrain management issues are properly addressed and synchronized. The
fires cell works closely with subordinate and BCT organic fires battalions and the FIB supported unit fires
cells in coordinating terrain management for field artillery elements.
3-146. Field artillery terrain management involves the planning and coordination of positions and
movements for field artillery units, radar sections, and other field artillery elements. The fires cell and
subordinate fires battalion S-3s work together during the MDMP to identify the general field artillery
positioning and movement requirements necessary to support the concept of operations and the
commander’s intent. Early in the MDMP process, they try to identify the possible field artillery units
involved, the general position areas required in the FIB and supported unit zones, the general times when
these locations will be required, and the possible routes needed for movement. This information is used by
the FIB fires cell and the subordinate fires battalion staffs to begin the detailed planning and information
gathering necessary to identify specific issues or requirements, the feasibility of the general positioning and
movement plan, and the detailed coordination requirements necessary for terrain management. As the
MDMP progresses, field artillery positioning and movement plans and information become more detailed,
and the fires battalion fires cell and subordinate fires battalion S-3s may use warning orders to alert
supported unit fires cells and FIB and battalions of terrain management issues (positioning and movement
considerations).
3-147. Subordinate fires battalion S-3s collect all the information and advice, finalize the fires battalion
movement requirements and plans, and pass them to the fires cell to become part of the FIB OPORD.
Because the FIB and subordinate fires battalion MDMPs are integrated processes, the fires cell will already
know most of the information and have begun most of the terrain management coordination required.
3-148. The fires cell reviews the terrain management requirements and ensures that the S-3 is aware of
them, and that they are properly coordinated and synchronized as part of the overall division, corps, JTF, or
other FIB supported HQ terrain management plan. The fires cell is in the best position to monitor the
current locations of all friendly units while simultaneously understanding field artillery requirements.
During the MDMP, it facilitates the exchange of terrain management information between the FIB and
subordinate fires battalion staffs and supported unit fires cells. This includes rapid resolution of any critical
terrain management issues that could affect the FIB plan. This problem identification and resolution is one
of the key terrain management functions of the fires cell.
3-149. The fires cell and subordinate fires battalion S-3s identify and coordinate general position areas for
FIB-controlled field artillery assets. They identify and authorize the direct liaison necessary between
reinforcing field artillery units and supported unit fires cells to coordinate terrain management. The
battalions will then conduct direct coordination with the lowest level supported unit to obtain the specific
locations or routes needed for the field artillery battalions, radars and other field artillery assets under FIB
control. The BCT and FIB fires cells assist supported higher HQ fires cells (or equivalent staff
section/cell/element) and FIB battalions with detailed terrain management. For major FIB movements, or
during constrained AO conditions, the fires cell and the subordinate fires battalion S-3s will usually
3-33
Chapter 3
conduct more detailed terrain management, identifying specific positions, routes, and times for positioning
and movement activities.
SURVEY AND METEOROLOGY
3-150. Accurate predicted fires result from accurate location of target and firing platforms, accurate
gunner computations, accurate meteorology, and accurate data for weapons and ammunition.
SURVEY
3-151. Common survey control is the location of all firing system elements (firing units, radars, met
station, and observers) on a common location and azimuth system that should be extended into the target
area. Establishment of common survey/map datum is a critical FIB command responsibility. In order for
two locations to be considered on common survey they must be referenced to the same datum (for example,
the World Geodetic System of 1984), ellipsoid (there are more than five ellipsoids used around the world),
and grid system (for example, the military grid reference system), and must meet the prescribed survey
accuracies or be converted to meet them. Common survey facilitates all fire support assets being oriented
the same with respect to azimuth, position, and elevation to a prescribed accuracy. Common survey/map
datum is essential for accurate navigation, TA, and target attack, and for the prevention of fratricide.
Common survey for the FIB is provided by the FIB TAB’s survey sections using the position and azimuth
determining system and conventional survey means.
3-152. Survey planning begins with understanding the FIB commander's intent and guidance for fires.
During planning full consideration must be given to the commander's concept of the operation, priorities,
tactical situation, survey control available, desired accuracy, number of installations, and METT-TC
factors. This information can be translated by the FIB S-3 and FSO into survey requirements for the TA
sensors and the designated attack systems, which must be on a common grid by the time required for the
operation. Aggressive survey planning that answers “who,” “where,” “when,” “why,” and “how” is
essential to ensure mission success.
3-153. For more information on survey, see FM 3-34.331 and FM 6-2.
METEOROLOGY
3-154. It is the responsibility of the FIB commander (coordinating with the TAB’s meteorological section
leader, S-3, FSO, and fires cell) to position the TAB’s meteorological sections to best measure the
atmosphere for meteorological support of all firing units involved in FIB operations. Current
meteorological data must be applied for accurate artillery fires, battlefield forecasts, radiological fallout
predictions, and TA. This information is in the form of meteorological messages provided by the artillery
meteorological sections. Control of all field artillery meteorological sections is exercised at the field
artillery HQ to which the meteorological section is assigned or attached.
3-155. Planning and use of the TAB’s meteorological sections begins with the FIB commander's intent,
guidance for fire support, and the battlefield weather conditions. During the planning, full consideration
must be given to the following—
z
Commander's concept of the operation.
z
Mission priorities (type of meteorological data required).
z
Tactical situation and security.
3-34
The Fires Brigade Operations and Integrating Processes
z
Prevailing winds (determine meteorological section location).
z
Location of units supported.
z
Location of other meteorological sections.
z
Communications facilities.
3-156. For more information concerning meteorology, see FM 3-09.15.
Note: A possible limiting factor in achieving accurate fires for effect may be the difficulty in obtaining
accurate meteorological data when FIB firing elements are not within acceptable distance from FIB or other
Army meteorological facilities. In such instances, the U.S. Air Force’s interactive grid analysis display
system for predictive meteorology could be applied where SECRET internet protocol router network access
is available, but its predictive accuracy is often distorted due to the large elevation changes in mountainous
terrain.
LASER MANAGEMENT
3-157. Laser technology is involved in the use of precision-guided munitions. Synchronization is required
for those laser systems designating targets for precision-guided munitions (PGM). Laser management is
crucial to the successful, safe, and legal use of laser systems on the battlefield.
3-158. The S-3, FSO, fires cell, subordinate fires battalions, the supported unit battalion/squadron FSO
and fires cell, COLTs, FISTs, and FOs must ensure that fire support Soldiers operating laser target
designators understand the legal and safety issues involved in the use of laser equipment. Protocol IV to the
Geneva Conventional Weapons Convention provides guidance on the use of lasers (it specifically prohibits
the use of lasers specifically designed to cause permanent blindness). The Soldiers must be well trained in
the operation of the equipment, and the procedures for safely employing laser target designators and PGMs
to attack targets. Improperly employed laser target designators and PGMs can result in fratricide.
3-159. Laser designation for PGMs also involve the use of laser codes that enable various laser target
designators to work in harmony with various laser-guided weapons. Some munitions and equipment are
incapable of using all available codes. Additionally, certain codes (low code, high pulse repetition
frequency, and/or faster pulse rate) are preferred for laser systems requiring precision guidance. Laser-
guided bomb codes are set on the bombs before takeoff and cannot be changed in the air. Codes must be
pre-briefed to aircrews, forward air controllers, field artillery units, and/or ground observers in situations
where communications cannot be established or authorized during execution of the mission. Coordination
is necessary to ensure the various fires cells are not using codes that duplicate or interfere with each other.
3-160. Laser code management is an army, joint, and multinational force issue. The division corps, JTF or
other FIB supported command’s FSO should ensure that laser code requirements are properly managed and
coordinated across their commands fire support warfighting function. At division and corps level, the fires
cell is primarily focused on ensuring that the various laser devices interoperating in an operation are
compatible and that the procedures for exchanging the laser codes are clearly identified. Deconfliction of
laser codes should be identified and conducted early in the planning and wargaming process and during
rehearsals. Procedures should be established to quickly resolve unanticipated code conflicts during the
execution of PGM operations.
3-161. Additional information can be found in JP 3-09 and JP 3-09.3.
3-35
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Chapter 4
Fires Brigade Employment: How the Fires Brigade Fights
This chapter describes fires brigade (FIB) employment. Section I of this chapter begins by
describing factors that influence the FIB operational environment including combined arms
and unified action. Section II describes the operational framework for the FIB as shaped by its
area of operations (AO), the concept of operations, allocation of combat power, and FIB strike
and counterfire operations. Section III through VI concludes this chapter by describing FIB
deployment, and defensive, offensive, and stability operations.
SECTION I - OPERATIONAL ENVIRONMENT
4-1. The operational environment is a composite of the conditions, circumstances, and influences that
affect the employment of capabilities and bear on the decisions of the commander (joint publication [JP] 3-
0). Commanders consider more than the enemy’s military forces and other combat capabilities. They use
their experience, professional knowledge, and understanding of the situation to visualize and change the
operational environment as current operations transition to future operations.
COMBINED ARMS
4-2. Combined arms is the synchronized and simultaneous application of the elements of combat power—
to achieve an effect greater than if each element of combat power was used separately or sequentially. It is
the full integration of different capabilities in such a way that to counteract one, the enemy must become
more vulnerable to another. Combined arms employ all the warfighting functions and their supporting
systems.
4-3. Combined arms multiply the effectiveness of Army forces in all operations. Units operating without
support of other arms suffer higher losses and may not accomplish their mission. Combined arms depend
upon synchronization of capabilities.
4-4. Synchronization is—
z
The arrangement of military actions in time, space, and purpose to produce maximum relative
combat power at a decisive place and time.
z
In the intelligence context, application of intelligence sources and methods in concert with the
operation plan to ensure intelligence requirements are answered in time to influence the
decisions they support.
4-5. Through synchronization, commanders arrange warfighting functions to mass the effects of combat
power at the chosen place and time to overwhelm an enemy or dominate the situation. Synchronization is a
means, not an end. Commanders balance synchronization against agility and initiative; they never surrender
the initiative or miss opportunity for the sake of synchronization.
4-6. Complementary capabilities combine dissimilar organizations to redress the weakness of one type of
organization with the strength of another. For example, field artillery, infantry, armor, and aviation each
4-1
Chapter 4
demonstrate distinct capabilities and vulnerabilities. Their separate capabilities taken together form a lethal
building block within which, each organization’s vulnerabilities are shielded by another’s capabilities.
4-7. Combined arms are achieved through organizational design (standing organizations) and temporary
reorganization (tailored and task-organized units). For example, a divisional force package may include
combat aviation, maneuver enhancement, sustainment, fires, and battlefield surveillance brigades to
complement and reinforce four or five brigade combat teams (BCT). While combined arms operations are
familiar to Army units, integrating other service and special operations forces capabilities has become
typical. Multinational combinations are common and interagency and intergovernmental combinations are
occurring more frequently. None of these (joint, interagency, intergovernmental, or multinational)
combinations occurs successfully in operations without planning and preparation. Careful training and
exchange of liaison at every level are necessary for successful operations.
UNIFIED LAND OPERATIONS
4-8. Unified land operations describes how the Army seizes, retains, and exploits the initiative to gain
and maintain a position of relative advantage in sustained land operations through simultaneous offensive,
defensive, and stability operations in order to prevent or deter conflict, prevail in war, and create the
conditions for favorable conflict resolution (ADP 3-0).
JOINT INTERDEPENDENCE
4-9. Joint interdependence is the purposeful reliance by one Service’s forces on another Service’s
capabilities to maximize the complementary and reinforcing effects of both. Army forces operate as part of
an interdependent joint force. Joint capabilities make Army forces more effective than they would be
otherwise. Combinations of joint capabilities defeat enemy forces by shattering their ability to operate as a
cohesive, effective whole. Joint suppression of enemy air defenses (J-SEAD) and joint air attack team
(JAAT) operations are examples of operations where individual Army capabilities (such as those of the
FIB) and Air Force capabilities applied in combination generate greater combat power than if the
capabilities of only one Service were applied in isolation. For more on joint operations see JP 3-0.
IINTERAGENCY COORDINATION AND COOPERATION WITH OTHER ORGANIZATIONS
4-10. Interagency coordination is within the context of Department of Defense involvement, the
coordination that occurs between elements of Department of Defense, and engaged U.S. Government
agencies for achieving an objective (JP 3-0). Understanding other agencies’ capabilities potentially enables
the FIB commander to add diplomatic, informational, and economic depth to FIB operations efforts. For
instance, if the FIB is assigned its own AO during a stability operation, FIB capabilities (augmented) allow
other agencies to operate within unstable areas with increased security and effectiveness. Just as integrating
different unit or Service capabilities results in the advantages of joint and combined arms, so synchronizing
the FIBs military power with other instruments of national power produces dynamic capabilities. Some
requirements are performed best by civilian agencies. Some may be so different from military capabilities
that only other agencies can accomplish them. If security is poor, or contracted support is minimal (often
the case early in a contingency operation), other government agencies may have difficulty accomplishing
their mission. The FIB has Soldiers, leaders, equipment, and organizational depth and support that exceed
capabilities of almost any other agency of the government. Examples of civilian organizations with which
the FIB might work, especially during stability operations, or defense support of civil authorities includes
other government agencies, intergovernmental organizations and nongovernmental organizations—
4-2
Fires Brigade Employment: How the Fires Brigade Fights
z
Other government agencies are within the context of interagency coordination, a non-
Department of Defense agency of the United States Government (JP 1).
z
An intergovernmental organization is an organization created by a formal agreement (for
example, a treaty) between two or more governments. It may be established on a global,
regional, or functional basis for wide-ranging or narrowly defined purposes. Formed to protect
and promote nation interests shared by member states (JP 3-08).
z
A nongovernmental organization is a private self-governing, not-for-profit organization
dedicated to alleviating human suffering, and/or promoting education, health care, economic
development, environmental protection, human rights, and conflict resolution; and/or
encouraging the establishment of democratic institutions and civil society (JP 3-08).
4-11. For more on interagency coordination and cooperation with other organizations see JP 3-08.
MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS
4-12. Multinational operations is a collective term to describe military actions conducted by forces of two
or more nations, usually undertaken within the structure of a coalition or alliance (JP 3-16)—
z
An alliance is the relationship that results from a formal agreement (for example, a treaty)
between two or more nations for broad, long-term objectives that further the common interests
of the members (JP 3-0).
z
A coalition is an ad-hoc arrangement between two or more nations for common action (JP 5-0).
4-13. Since multinational operations are not structured around standing agreements, a preliminary
understanding of the requirements for operating with a specific foreign military may occur through
peacetime military engagement. These developmental activities include, but are not limited to, ongoing
personal contacts, pre-positioning of equipment, exercises, exchange programs, and humanitarian
assistance. Every multinational operation is different. An Army force commander designated as a
multinational force commander faces many complex demands. These may include dealing with cultural
issues, interoperability challenges, and an immature theater mission command organization. The FIB may
be part of multinational force and be either the supporting or the supported command. The FIB commander
should be prepared to deal with different national procedures, the sharing of intelligence, and theater
sustainment functions. The FIB commander must also be prepared to analyze his mission’s peculiar
requirements and be prepared to exploit the advantages and compensate for the limitations of a
multinational force. The FIB commander should be prepared to establish liaison with multinational forces
that are assigned, attached to or under the operational control (OPCON) or tactical control (TACON) of the
FIB and with FIB supported multinational forces as soon as possible. Exchanging liaison fosters common
understanding of missions and tactics, facilitates transfer of information, and enhances mutual trust and
confidence. For more on multinational operations see JP 3-16.
SECTION II -THE FIRES BRIGADE FRAMEWORK
AREA OF OPERATIONS
4-14. An area of operations is an operational area defined by the joint force commander for land and
maritime forces. AOs do not typically encompass the entire operational area of the joint force commander,
but should be large enough for component commanders to accomplish their missions and protect their
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Chapter 4
forces (JP 3-0). FIBs are normally assigned, attached or OPCON to a division. However, they may be
OPCON to a task force, land component command, or other Service or functional component. The FIB can
also support a special operations task force with long-range precision fires not inherent to special
operations forces organizations. When supporting a division, corps, JTF, joint force land component
command , or other higher HQ the FIB may be required to support an AO that includes all or portions of
the supported command’s AO.
4-15. Normally all BCTs and a select few support brigades are assigned AOs. However, any brigade,
including the FIB, may be assigned an AO, with that owning brigade responsible for terrain management,
security, clearance of fires, stability operations, movement control, airspace command and control, and
development and maintenance of the common operational picture within its AO. Any brigade that is not
staffed to accomplish each of these functions should either be augmented or not be assigned an AO. If the
FIB’s supported commander assigns the FIB an area of operations (AO) the supported commander provides
guidance on coordinating the FIB’s actions with BCTs and other supporting brigades in the command. The
FIB’s supported commander also provides supporting units to the FIB as necessary. The FIB might be
required to detach some of its subordinate elements to BCTs or other supporting brigades of the command.
BCTs, reconnaissance and surveillance brigades, maneuver enhancement brigades, combat aviation
brigades, and sustainment brigades can all support FIB operations
4-16. The division or other higher commander defines the FIB’s AO. The FIB’s AO should be large
enough for the FIB commander to accomplish his mission and protect his forces. The FIB commander
employs units and supporting systems that are assigned or attached to, or placed under the OPCON or
TACON of the FIB, within his assigned AO. Within the FIB AO, subordinate commanders synchronize
their operations with the FIB’s plan. Other supporting brigades such as a sustainment brigade, maneuver
enhancement brigade, battlefield surveillance brigade, or combat aviation brigade may occupy terrain in the
FIB’s AO. The supported higher HQ may also position its main command post (CP) or a tactical command
post (TAC CP) in the FIB’s AO.
4-17. The combat aviation brigade and the FIB may be assigned an AO instead of an engagement area or
kill box, to facilitate conducting an attack (combat aviation brigade attack operations are described in FM
3-04.126) operation or a strike. This might be done to ensure unity of command and facilitate control when
the operation will occur over an extended period and several units will participate.
4-18. Use boundaries to describe the AO, assist in the synchronization of the operation, and take full
advantage of the supported command’s capabilities. Commanders specify the necessary control measures to
focus combat power, delineate responsibilities, assign geographic responsibility, and support the operation.
Generally, division, corps, JTF, or other higher HQ commanders use a mix of permissive and restrictive
control measures to ensure subordinate commanders, such as the FIB commander, have the maximum
flexibility to accomplish the mission. The concepts of AO, area of interest, and area of influence are
applicable when assigning AOs to brigades. See FM 3-90. The division, corps, or other higher HQ will
either assign contiguous or noncontiguous AOs. When assigning noncontiguous AOs, the division, corps,
or other higher HQ retains control of the unassigned area within its own AO.
CONTIGUOUS AREAS OF OPERATION
4-19. Contiguous AOs afford the FIB commander and FIB supported higher HQ commander a better
methodology for massing the effects of combat power and providing mutual support at critical times and
places. Contiguous AOs also provide additional security for maneuver units as well as control nodes, and
the division, corps, or other FIB supported command’s sustainment area. Conditions that might favor using
contiguous AOs include—
4-4
Fires Brigade Employment: How the Fires Brigade Fights
z
Limited size of the AO in relation to number of friendly forces.
z
Enemy forces are concentrated.
z
Reducing risk associated with being defeated in detail because of an incomplete operational
picture or because the FIB supported command is significantly outnumbered.
z
Decisive points in close proximity to each other.
z
Limited availability of joint fires.
NONCONTIGUOUS AREAS OF OPERATION
4-20. Assigning noncontiguous AOs to subordinate units allows the division, corps, or other FIB supported
command to apply the effects of combat power in widely separated areas and/or concentrate the effects of
its combat power in selected areas. A higher HQ commander’s decision to use noncontiguous AOs,
regardless of command echelon, is derived from a careful analysis of the factors of mission, enemy, terrain
and weather, troops and support available, time available, civil considerations (METT-TC)—particularly
the enemy, and his ability to mass, and terrain. Overcoming this risk places a premium on the FIB
supported commander’s situational understanding and on the tactical mobility of his forces. In order to
reduce the risk, the FIB supported commander typically does not assign noncontiguous AOs to subordinate
units unless they are within supporting distance and/or supporting range of one another and the command is
able to rally sufficient combat power to prevent a threat from defeating a friendly unit in detail.
4-21. During combat operations, the division, corps, JTF, or other FIB supported commander does not
assign subordinate units AOs in areas where the enemy does not pose a threat to the accomplishment of the
mission. The command retains these unassigned areas as its own responsibility. It is the division, corps,
JTF, or other FIB supported commander’s responsibility to ensure enemy forces do not operate in these
unassigned areas in such a way as to become a threat in subsequent operations or threaten to defeat in detail
any friendly unit. If the enemy activity increases in the unassigned areas, the division, corps, or other FIB
supported command may chose to assign the area to a subordinate unit. Each noncontiguous AO must
either provide for its self-defense against any enemy capability or be in supporting distance and/or
supporting range of another subordinate unit such as the FIB, or otherwise be able to mass fires (both Army
and joint) to prevent defeat in detail. The commander will typically establish noncontiguous AOs when—
z
Comparative weakness of the enemy is known.
z
Enemy forces are dispersed.
z
Joint fires are available.
z
The division, corps, or other FIB supported command has the ability to influence the unassigned
areas.
4-22. The FIB’s target acquisition (TA) systems may enable the FIB to observe outside the AO.
Additionally, the capabilities of supporting units assigned, attached, or under the OPCON of the FIB often
have capabilities with influence outside the AO.
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Chapter 4
FIRES BRIGADE STRIKE AND COUNTERFIRE
STRIKE OPERATIONS
4-23. Strike is an attack to damage or destroy an objective or a capability (JP 3-0). The FIB conducts
strikes as a component of offensive and defensive operations. Long range offensive and defensive fires
support strategic assurance and deterrence missions by providing a capability to strike ground targets at
extended distances. These fires contribute to shaping operations and defeating or denying enemy
capabilities that threaten deploying joint and multinational forces. Offensive fires strike enemy capabilities
before they come in contact with or are employed against U.S. forces or populations, enabling commanders
to seize, retain, and exploit the initiative. These fires present the enemy with multiple dilemmas, limit
options, and destroy or degrade capabilities. Defensive fires will support a broad range of operations,
extending from homeland defense to major combat operations in deployed theaters, and will often require
the integration of joint, interagency, intergovernmental, and multinational partners. Defensive fires
capabilities provide persistent, 360-degree protection. FIB strikes may be used as separate attacks or in with
maneuver forces. For example, if the division, corps, JTF, or other FIB supported commander is seeking to
dislocate the enemy, a BCT may conduct a turning movement (shaping) to expose an enemy force to FIB
strikes to defeat the enemy force (decisive). In another operation, the strike may attack an enemy HQ to
disrupt an enemy force (shaping) so that a BCT may close with and destroy the enemy force (decisive).
4-24. Strike is a mission order given to the FIB because of the supported higher HQ targeting process.
Strike is generally focused on a specific enemy formation and is a deliberate operation with a timeline of
several hours to several days—it is not a fire mission against a target of opportunity. The FIB may be the
supporting or supported command and employs Army and joint scalable fires, often complemented by
attack aviation, to conduct a strike. Strike may include rapid and aggressive maneuver of FIB assets well
forward in the supported higher HQ AO to achieve range on the identified target. This is accomplished
either by assigning a mission to a BCT to support the FIB’s maneuver forward, or by task-organizing
maneuver or other security assets (for example, infantry/armor, military police, air defense artillery) to the
FIB to allow the FIB commander to maneuver to position his forces. Strike capitalizes on the ability of
Army forces to deliver precise effects of fires to the full depth and breadth of the division, corps, JTF, or
other FIB supported command’s AO. Strike has three primary advantages over attack aviation operations.
First, there is no risk to aircrews conducting the strike. Second, there is very little delay between acquisition
of the target and delivery—usually minutes. Third, there is little the target can do to defend itself once
acquired, except to move outside of the range of the lethal effects of FIB fires. For many types of targets,
that is impossible. The primary disadvantage of strike is the latter—if the target can maneuver, it may be
able to avoid being engaged.
COUNTERFIRE
4-25. Counterfire is fire intended to destroy or neutralize enemy weapons. Includes counterbattery,
counterbombardment, and countermortar fire (JP 1-02). Destruction of enemy capabilities for accurate
long-range fires that could disrupt and hinder maneuver is critical to ensure freedom of action and high
tempo operations for friendly forces. Counterfire can neutralize or destroy all or portions of the enemy’s
total strike (fire support) capabilities including delivery systems, control nodes, support systems, and
logistics or sustainment areas. Counterfire has two complementary components, preemptive and reactive—
z
Preemptive counterfire. The FIB aggressively seeks to eliminate the enemy’s indirect fire
assets before they can affect division, corps, JTF, or other FIB supported command’s operations.
The FIB uses organic TA and fires capabilities, as well as allocated division, corps, or joint
4-6
Fires Brigade Employment: How the Fires Brigade Fights
assets to acquire and disable components of the enemy’s strike (fire support) system. Examples
of target sets include cannon, rocket, and missile delivery units, artillery ammunition storage
facilities, fire direction centers, counterfire radars, forward observers, fixed- or rotary-wing
airfields, and fire support communications infrastructure.
z
Reactive Counterfire. The FIB serves as the division, corps, JTF, or other FIB supported higher
HQ counterfire HQ and executes counterfire in reaction to enemy strike activity. The brigade
uses a variety of counterfire acquisition assets to locate enemy strike (fire support) systems
accurately. The FIB establishes the necessary sensor-to-shooter links to rapidly attack the enemy
systems.
SECTION III - THE FIRES BRIGADE IN DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS
GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE FIRES BRIGADE IN
DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS
4-26. Defensive operations are operations conducted to defeat an enemy attack, gain time, economize
forces, and develop conditions favorable for offensive or stability tasks. These operations include mobile
defense, area defense, and retrograde (ADP 3-0).
4-27. As in the offense, the impact of fire support is fundamental to the success of the division, corps, or
other FIB supported command. The execution and support of strike throughout the enemy’s depth can
assist in defeating or deterring the enemy before he can reach the main body of forces. Fires in support of
shaping operations are used to silence enemy artillery, separate enemy echelons, and defeat maneuver
elements as they move forward. Fires can be critical to offsetting a lack of maneuver assets for defense of
large areas. The general tasks of the FIB in defensive operations are to—
z
Coordinate joint fires against the enemy to separate echelons and reduce his available options.
z
Execute lethal and nonlethal attacks at maximum range to disrupt enemy command and control
and desynchronize his attack.
z
Provide massed fires to assist BCTs in breaking the momentum of attacking enemy maneuver
forces.
z
Prevent enemy indirect fires from reducing the supported commander’s defense—execute
counterfire to interdict enemy fires systems.
z
Provide redundant communications networks to ensure uninterrupted fires to the force.
z
Support BCT survey sections in meeting target area survey requirements. Defensive operations
do not place any unusual requirements on the FIB.
z
Provide meteorological support to FIB units and those BCT units beyond the valid range of their
organic meteorological stations.
MOBILE DEFENSE, AREA DEFENSE, AND RETROGRADE
4-28. The mobile defense is defense of an area of position in which maneuver is used with organization of
fire and utilization of terrain to seize the initiative from the enemy (JP 1-02). It is the type of defense in
which the defender withholds a large portion of available forces for use as a striking force in a
4-7
Chapter 4
counterattack. A mobile defense requires defenders to have greater mobility than attackers. Defenders
combine offensive, defensive, and delaying actions to lure attackers into positions where they are
vulnerable to counterattack. Commanders take advantage of terrain in depth, military deception, obstacles,
and mines while employing fires and maneuver to wrest the initiative from the attacker.
4-29. An area defense is a defensive task that concentrates on denying enemy forces access to designated
terrain for a specific time rather than destroying the enemy outright. (FM 3 90). The focus of the area
defense is on retaining terrain where the bulk of the defending force positions itself in mutually supporting,
prepared positions. Fire support assists in shaping operations that constrain the enemy into a specific COA,
control his movements, or fix him in a given location. These actions limit the enemy’s options. Fires
support may be used to delay or attrit enemy follow-on and reserve forces to keep them from entering the
MBA. The commander covers obstacles with fires to fix, turn, block, or disrupt to limit the options
available to the enemy. The decisive operation focuses on fires into EAs, possibly supplemented by a
counterattack.
4-30. Retrograde involves organized movement away from the enemy. This includes delays, withdrawals,
and retirements. Retrograde operations gain time, preserve forces, place the enemy in unfavorable
positions, or avoid combat under undesirable conditions. See FM 3-90 for additional information on
defensive operations.
Task Organization and Support Relationships
4-31. The FIB is generally organized in the defense with more centralized control of fire support. This
allows the FIB commander maximum flexibility in supporting all BCTs based on enemy actions and allows
massed fires to deliver support to decisive operations when that time comes. Specific FIB considerations
include—
z
Task-organizing some FIB cannon artillery battalions as reinforcing to organic BCT fires
battalions. A general support-reinforcing support relationship may be appropriate where a higher
degree of FIB centralized control is desired.
z
Providing adequate support to the division covering force. In some instances, based on mission
variables, a portion of the FIB may occupy the covering force AO and it is possible that the FIB
will serve as the force field artillery HQ for the BCT executing the covering force mission.
z
Establishing support and communications links with the sustainment brigade and sustainment
areas to respond to penetrations of division sustainment areas by small attacking enemy forces.
4-32. In the retrograde, ground maneuver forces are continually in contact with the enemy and need
responsive cannon delivered fires to assist in maneuver and breaking contact with the enemy. The FIB
continues to centrally control fire support to support the force as a whole. Additionally, the FIB must retain
the flexibility to mass fires in support of individual BCTs to facilitate disengagement and repositioning.
Specific FIB considerations include—
z
If the division, corps, or other FIB supported command organizes a covering force during the
retrograde, providing adequate support to the supported command covering force. The FIB may
serve as the force field artillery HQ for the BCT executing the covering force mission.
4-8
Fires Brigade Employment: How the Fires Brigade Fights
Positioning and Movement
Positioning
4-33. The FIB will most certainly be positioned in BCT sectors during the defense in contiguous
operations. Close coordination between the FIB and the BCT operations staff officers (S-3) is vital to
ensure the FIB is positioned to execute its missions but will not interfere with BCT movement or
repositioning. In noncontiguous operations, the FIB may be given its own position area and some security
assets to respond to localized threats. Specific FIB considerations include—
z
Positioning sufficient assets forward to support a covering force if one is employed. If the FIB is
the force field artillery HQ for the covering force, position some or all of the fire support assets
in the covering force area.
z
Planning positions well forward in BCT sectors.
z
Positioning two thirds of the fires assets with the fixing force during a mobile defense and one
third with the striking force.
z
Positioning TA radars to augment the BCT assets in the covering force and to support the
withdrawal of forces from the covering force area.
z
Planning positions that allow two thirds of the fires assets to be in place to fire at any one time.
z
Positioning TA radars to provide coverage while BCT radars are displacing.
Movement
4-34. Movement during defensive operations is closely tied to the movement of the ground maneuver
forces. FIB movement is typically limited to withdrawal from the covering force area, lateral repositioning
for survivability, and maneuver to support the striking force in a mobile defense. Specific FIB
considerations include—
z
Supporting the covering force BCT during withdrawal from the covering force areas.
z
Moving one third of the FIB assets with the striking force during a mobile defense. Keep these
assets moving for as long as possible to ensure they are in position when the decisive operation
is executed.
z
Supporting the cycling of BCTs from a division sustainment area. Plan sufficient stationary FIB
forces to support battle handover between BCTs.
z
Moving the FIB in concert with the covering force if the division, corps, or other FIB supported
higher HQ employs a covering force to cover the retrograde of the command’s main body.
Consider establishing liaison with the covering force HQ to facilitate retrograde of the covering
force and withdrawal through the supported command’s main body.
z
Echeloning units to keep two thirds of FIB assets in position to enable the supported higher HQ
retrograde.
z
Moving to positions that facilitate follow-on operations, such as establishment of a hasty
defense.
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Chapter 4
Fires Brigade Target Acquisition
4-35. FIB TA assets are focused on locating of enemy indirect fire systems. Specific FIB considerations
include—
z
Positioning radars as far forward as possible to maximize range and acquire enemy systems
capable of providing the enemy with long range preparation fires.
z
Positioning lightweight countermortar radars (LCMR) to cover infantry defiles and strong
points.
z
Consider recommending to the division, corps, JTF, or other FIB supported commander that the
FIB should coordinate the overall TA radar positioning and movement plan during the
retrograde.
z
Position long-range TA radars rearward early to provide extended coverage for the FIB
supported command during the retrograde.
Close, Shaping, and Counterfire Operations in the Mobile Defense, Area Defense and
Retrograde
Fires in Close Support to the BCTs
4-36. Close supporting fires for the BCT include—
z
In mobile defense and area defense:
Providing massed fires to the BCT to break the momentum of an enemy attack in the main
battle areas.
Providing counterfire support to the BCT as the enemy enters BCT engagement areas
allowing the BCT’s fires battalions to execute close support supporting fires for maneuver.
Providing scalable fires to disrupt enemy reinforcements in the BCT AO.
z
In the retrograde:
Providing massed fires to the BCT to permit disengagement by the BCTs.
Providing counterfire support to the BCTs to support repositioning of BCT TA radars.
Linking UAS support BCTs with HIMARS/MLRS units to respond to acquired enemy fires
units rapidly.
Providing scalable fires to disrupt enemy reinforcements within the BCT AO.
Fires in Support of Shaping Operations
4-37. Fires in support of shaping operations include—
z
In mobile defense and area defense:
Providing FIB strike to delay, disrupt, and attrit attacking enemy forces beyond the covering
force area.
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Fires Brigade Employment: How the Fires Brigade Fights
Supporting combat aviation brigade attack operations; neutralizing enemy air defense
artillery systems by scalable means; providing scalable fires to support the combat aviation
brigade attack.
Employing joint fire support against enemy command and control and infrastructure
(roads/bridges/tunnels) to shape the approach of attacking enemy forces.
Executing strike in support of corps shaping operations.
z
In the retrograde:
Providing FIB strike to delay, disrupt, and attrit attacking enemy forces to allow the
supported command to conduct a retrograde operation.
Supporting combat aviation brigade attack operations - neutralizing enemy air defense
systems by lethal and nonlethal means; providing scalable fires in coordination with the combat
aviation brigade attack.
Requesting allocated joint air assets to strike enemy reserve forces that may reinforce units
in contact.
Executing TA and strike fire missions in support of higher echelon shaping operations.
Counterfire Operations
4-38. Counterfire operations include—
z
Aggressively seeking and attacking enemy long-range indirect fires systems prior to the enemy
executing preparation fires.
z
Employing allocated joint air assets against enemy indirect fires systems; continually cycle on-
call close air support (CAS) against those targets.
z
Providing force field artillery HQ coordination of TA radar movement and positioning
throughout the retrograde operation.
4-39. Counterfire provided by a FIB to protect a FIB supported unit can occur in offensive, defensive, or
stability operations.
Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses
4-40. Suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD) is activity that neutralizes, destroys, or temporarily
degrades surface-based enemy air defenses by destructive and/or disruptive means (JP 3-01). SEAD is
critical to the survival of division, corps, JTF, and joint force commander (JFC) air assets. Accomplish it
quickly and efficiently in support of air operations. It is an integral part of attack aviation planning,
synchronized with, and integrated into, overall division, corps, or other supported command and combat
aviation brigade (particularly air assault) operations. Fires suppress, neutralize, and destroy known and
suspected threat air defense weapons, radars, and command and control elements. The division, corps, or
other FIB supported command can engage SEAD targets out to the limit of the FIB’s various weapon
systems (such as the Army Tactical Missile System [ATACMS]). The division, corps, JTF, or other FIB
supported command’s fires cell is the focal point for coordinating joint and other service SEAD capabilities
in support of Army aviation missions.
4-11
Chapter 4
SECTION IV - THE FIRES BRIGADE IN OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS
GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE FIRES BRIGADE IN
OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS
4-41. Offensive operations are operations conducted to defeat and destroy enemy forces and seize terrain,
resources, and population centers. They include movement to contact, attack, exploitation, and pursuit
(ADP 3-0). Fires in support of the offense involve attacking targets throughout the AO with massed or
precision indirect fires, air support, and electronic warfare assets to prevent enemy reinforcements,
disengagement, or resupply. See FM 3-09 for general considerations in supporting the concept of
operations during the offense.
4-42. Fires in support of offensive operations are responsive and timely to support maneuver and help the
division, corps or other FIB supported command achieve and sustain the initiative. Supporting fires should
never be out of range of advancing maneuver formations. The general tasks of the FIB in offensive
operations include—
z
Executing scalable fires in support of corps, division, JTF, or other FIB supported HQ shaping
operations against uncommitted enemy forces’ command and control nodes, fires and air defense
networks, and enemy surveillance, reconnaissance and TA assets.
z
Establishing support relationships to facilitate responsive reinforcing fires to lead supported
command maneuver elements.
z
Supporting BCTs (including special operations forces and organized and trained friendly
indigenous forces) during the attack by providing close supporting fires to assist in isolating
objective and fixing enemy forces.
z
Shifting fire support to targets away from objectives to interdict enemy reinforcements and
escape routes.
z
Structuring communications networks to maintain continuous responsive fire support to
maneuvering forces.
z
Focusing available survey assets on extending control forward to support the movement of
radars forward in support of the attack.
z
Moving meteorological sections forward by echelon to provide continuous meteorological
coverage to the force. Coordinating meteorological coverage plans with BCT fires battalions.
MOVEMENT TO CONTACT, ATTACK, EXPLOITATION, AND PURSUIT
4-43. Movement to contact is a form of the offense designed to develop the situation and to establish or
regain contact (JP 1-02). Movement to contact creates favorable conditions for subsequent tactical actions.
Forces executing this task seek to make enemy contact with the smallest friendly force feasible. On contact,
the commander has five options: attack, defend, bypass, delay, or withdraw. Movements to contact include
search and attack, and cordon and search operations. Movement to contact requires units to maintain
sufficient mobility, agility, and combat power to gain enemy contact and to rapidly develop the situation.
The FIB supports movement to contact by providing maximum fire support to the BCTs to allow the BCT
commanders to focus their organic fire support on developing the situation once contact is established. The
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Fires Brigade Employment: How the Fires Brigade Fights
FIB must balance this support with the requirement to quickly transition to shaping and counterfire
missions as the situation develops.
4-44. An attack destroys or defeats enemy forces, seizes and secures terrain, or both. Attacks require
maneuver supported by direct and indirect fires. They may be either decisive or shaping operations. Attacks
may be hasty or deliberate, depending on the time available for planning and preparation. Commanders
execute hasty attacks when the situation calls for immediate action with available forces and minimal
preparation. They conduct deliberate attacks when there is more time to plan and prepare. Success depends
on skillfully massing the effects of all the elements of combat power.
4-45. Exploitation, in the context of offensive operations, is an offensive operation that usually follows a
successful attack and is designed to disorganize the enemy in depth. (JP 2-01.3). The objective of an
exploitation is to complete the enemy’s disintegration.
4-46. Pursuit is an offensive operation designed to catch or cut off a hostile force attempting to escape,
with the aim of destroying it. A pursuit normally follows a successful exploitation. However, if it is
apparent that enemy resistance has broken down entirely and the enemy is fleeing the battlefield, any other
type or subordinate form of offensive operation can transition into a pursuit.
4-47. For more on offensive operations, see FM 3-90.
Task Organization and Support Relationships
4-48. The movement to contact is generally characterized by an undefined and uncertain situation. The FIB
must maintain a higher degree of centralized control over organic and assigned assets in order to respond to
a rapidly developing situation. Centralized control also gives the FIB the flexibility to provide efficient
support to maneuvering BCTs—allowing the BCTs’ organic fires battalions to continue movement with
their BCTs in anticipation of contact with the enemy. Specific FIB considerations include—
z
Assigning general support-reinforcing (GSR) missions to FIB cannon fires battalions to allow
close support to the BCTs while retaining positioning authority with the FIB to facilitate follow-
on reinforcing missions.
z
Providing radar and meteorological support to the BCTs to allow them to continue to move their
organic meteorological and radar assets during the movement to contact; coordinating handover
of support to BCTs once the situation is developed.
z
Establishing communications networks among the battlefield surveillance brigade, combat
aviation brigade, and FIB fires cells. Identifying fire support assets to support battlefield
surveillance brigades and combat aviation brigades working in the FIB supported command’s
AO.
4-49. During the attack, either hasty or deliberate, less centralized control of fires is used because the
division, corps, JTF, or other FIB supported command will have the initiative in the attack. The main effort
must be weighted by providing reinforcing or OPCON cannon battalion fires to the main effort BCT, and
by positioning GS or GSR MLRS/HIMARS battalions within the zone or along the axis of the attacking
BCT. The allocation of field artillery fires for the FIB supported command’s main effort helps control the
tempo of offensive operations. Specific FIB considerations include—
z
Establishing communications channels to support battlefield surveillance brigade operations
beyond the AO of the BCTs.
4-13
Chapter 4
z
Providing responsive fires in support of combat aviation brigade attack operations.
z
Recommending employment options for a BCT’s fires battalion when the BCT is held in
reserve.
4-50. There is generally little time to establish and effect new task organizations or support relationships
between an attack and exploitation and/or pursuit. These operations transition very quickly from one to
another. Decentralized command and support relationships are the key. Specific FIB considerations
include—
z
Establishing a reinforcing support relationship for some or all FIB cannon artillery battalions to
BCT fires battalions.
z
Providing GSR MLRS/HIMARS fires to the direct-pressure force.
z
Providing a communications channel to the battlefield surveillance brigade to allow rapid attack
of escaping enemy forces.
Positioning and Movement
Positioning
4-51. In the movement to contact, positioning of FIB units must allow execution of lethal and nonlethal
fire support to the BCTs, as well as the majority of the meteorological and radar coverage for them. In the
movement to contact, it is unlikely the FIB will be given its own AO for maneuver, as the situation is too
unclear. Consequently, the FIB will position units in the BCTs’ AO. Specific FIB considerations include—
z
Positioning general support (GS) and GSR cannon battalions to support BCTs with close
supporting fires and rapidly transition to reinforcing missions as the situation develops.
z
Coordinating positioning of MLRS/HIMARS fires battalions well forward to maximize range
and allow transition to support for strike and counterfire.
z
Deconflicting fires unit positions with airspace coordinating measures.
z
Positioning counterfire and countermortar radars to maintain radar coverage for the BCTs as
they continue to maneuver with their radars.
z
Positioning the FIB CP forward (METT-TC dependant)—perhaps located near the division TAC
CP (if deployed).
4-52. During the attack, either hasty or deliberate, less centralized control of fires is used because the
division, corps, JTF, or other FIB supported command will have the initiative in the attack. The main effort
must be weighted by providing reinforcing or OPCON cannon battalion fires to the main effort BCT, and
by positioning GS or GSR rocket/missile battalions within the zone or along the axis of the attacking BCT.
The allocation of field artillery fires for the FIB supported command’s main effort helps control the tempo
of offensive operations. Specific FIB considerations include—
z
Establishing communications channels to support battlefield surveillance brigade operations
beyond the AO of the BCTs.
z
Providing responsive fires in support of combat aviation brigade attack operations.
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Fires Brigade Employment: How the Fires Brigade Fights
z
Recommending employment options for a BCT’s fires battalion when the BCT is held in
reserve.
4-53. The FIB may still be in its own zone or axis following the attack. If this is the case, the brigade will
continue to maneuver through this AO for the exploitation and pursuit. If the brigade is maneuvering in
BCTs AOs, across the division, corps, JTF, or other FIB supported command’s AO, brigade S-3s must
coordinate positioning. The positioning considerations are the same as for the movement to contact as the
situation is similarly characterized by a fluid and dynamic situation. Specific FIB considerations include—
z
Positioning the majority (two thirds or more) of the FIB assets with the direct pressure force.
Move very mobile rocket/missile assets with the encircling force.
z
Using echeloned movement to provide continuous coverage to the force.
z
Positioning a small fires unit (MLRS/HIMARS battery) well forward in each BCT formation to
set to support the pursuit.
z
Coordinating with BCTs or the battlefield surveillance brigade for UAS launch/recovery support
while the FIB section is displacing.
Movement
4-54. Timely displacements are essential for successful offensive operations. Units positioned by the FIB
may be in danger of being left behind unless repositioning is frequent and synchronized to support the
forward progress of BCTs. Displacements should maximize continuous delivery of fires and be completed
as rapidly as possible.
4-55. In the movement to contact, the movement of FIB assets must be coordinated with the maneuver of
the BCTs to provide continuous fires, radar, and meteorological coverage for the force. Given the uncertain
enemy situation in a movement to contact, the assets should move as far forward as practical to allow
maximum flexibility once the situation develops. Movement of the FIB assets is coordinated with the
supported higher HQ, the FIB S-3, BCTs, and other support brigade S-3s. Specific FIB considerations
include—
z
Using echeloned movement to provide continuous coverage to the force.
z
Moving a small fires unit (perhaps an MLRS/HIMARS battery) well forward with each BCT to
support the battlefield surveillance brigade forward of the force.
z
Coordinating with BCTs or the battlefield surveillance brigade for UAS targeting support.
4-56. Field artillery units move well forward prior to an attack, displacing by echelon and carrying
maximum amounts of ammunition. In addition to those considerations identified for movement to contact,
specific FIB considerations include—
z
Providing radar/meteorological coverage for the BCTs to allow the uninterrupted movement of
their assets forward during the attack.
4-57. Movement during exploitation and pursuit is likely to be rapid and unpredictable. It will be
characterized by a series of short, sharp engagements, followed by very fast movement in pursuit of the
enemy. In addition to the considerations for movement to contact and attack, specific FIB considerations
include—
4-15
Chapter 4
z
Executing aggressive movement to maintain positioning to support the division, corps, JTF, or
other FIB support command—massed fires are critical to the success of exploitation and pursuit.
z
Moving fires units as far forward in the BCT formations as practical.
Fires Brigade Target Acquisition
4-58. In a movement to contact, FIB TA assets are focused on identifying enemy indirect fires systems to
support their targeting and attack. The FIB must support the BCTs with radar coverage to allow the BCTs’
organic radars to continue to maneuver with the BCT. Coverage must also be given to vulnerable division,
corps, or other supported command sustainment sites. As the situation develops FIB TA assets will
transition to support shaping and counterfire missions. Specific FIB considerations include—
z
Positioning TA radars as far forward as possible to maximize range and provide maximum
flexibility as the supported command continues offensive operations.
z
Positioning LCMRs to cover critical point targets that are vulnerable to mortar fire from
bypassed regular or irregular forces.
z
Implementing radar coverage in support of the BCTs to allow the radars in the BCT organic fires
battalions to continue to maneuver with the BCT.
z
UAS, if available, are employed forward of advancing MLRS and HIMARS batteries to
reconnoiter routes and position areas—particularly to identify by-passed enemy forces.
4-59. For an attack, FIB TA assets are focused on identifying enemy systems that can interdict the division,
corps, JTF, or other FIB supported command as it moves forward during the attack. The FIB plays a pivotal
role in ensuring the momentum of the supported command is not lost during the attack. The FIB must focus
radars—linked to fire support systems—to insulate the advancing division, corps, or other supported
command from interference as the maneuver forces posture for and execute close operations. In addition to
the considerations identified during a movement to contact, specific FIB considerations include—
z
Coordinating radar coverage across the FIB supported command’s AO to ensure there are no
gaps in coverage.
z
Executing TA to support higher echelon shaping operations.
4-60. During an exploitation or pursuit, FIB TA assets are focused on acquiring enemy fires assets that are
assisting enemy forces in breaking contact with the division, corps, JTF, or other supported command, and
locating bypassed enemy artillery units and systems which can attack vulnerable FIB supported command’s
mission command and sustainment systems. In addition to the considerations identified for the movement
to contact and attack, a specific FIB consideration is—
z
Monitoring TA radar acquisitions for indications of field artillery delivered scatterable mines by
the enemy.
4-16
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