Fire Support for Brigade Operations FM 6 20 50

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FM 6-20-50

5 JANUARY 1990

By Order of the Secretary of the Army:

CARL E. VUONO

General, United States Army
Chief of Staff

Official:

WILLIAM J. MEEHAN II

Brigadier General, United States Army
The Adjutant General

DISTRIBUTION:

Active Army, USAR, and ARNG: To be distributed in accordance with DA Form 12-11E,
Requirements for FM 6-20, Fire Support in the Airland Battle (Oty rqr block no. 772).

ft U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE: 1992-31 1-831/61 355

FM 6-20-50

Field Manual HEADQUARTERS

No. 6-20-50 DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY

Washington, DC, 5 January 1990

TACTICS, TECHNIQUES. AND PROCEDURES FOR

FIRE SUPPORT FOR BRIGADE
OPERATIONS (LIGHT)

Table of Contents

PREFACE

Page

CHAPTER 1

ORGANIZATION AND DUTIES

Section I. LIGHT FORCES ORGANIZATION 1-1

Mission 1-1

Characteristics 1-1

Significant Features 1-1

Section II. THE FIRE SUPPORT SYSTEM . . 1-1

Components 1-1

Fire Support Planning

and Coordination 1-2

Section III. FIRE SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS, PERSONNEL, AND DUTIES 1-3

Role of the Direct Support Field Artillery Battalion Commander 1-3

Fire Support Team Organization 1-3

Company Fire Support Officer Duties 1-4

Company Fire Support Sergeant Duties 1-4

DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTION: Distribution is authorized to US Government
apneies only to protect technical or operational information from automatic
dissemination under the International Exchange Program or by other means. This
determination was made on 1 May 1989. Other requests for this document will be
referred to Commandant, US Army Field Artillery School, ATTN: ATSF-DD, Fort
Sill, OK 73503-5600.

DESTRUCTION NOTICE: Destroy by any method that will prevent disclosure of
contents or reconstruction of the document.

FM 6-20-50

Company Fire Support Officer Working Relationships 1-4

Company Fire Support Officer and/or Fire Support Sergeant Required Actions 1-5

Battalion Fire Support Organization 1-6

Battalion Fire Support Officer Duties 1-7

Battalion Fire Support Sergeant Duties 1-7

Battalion Fire Support Officer Working Relationships 1-7

Brigade Fire Support Organization 1-9

Brigade Fire Support Officer Duties 1-10

Brigade Plans/Targeting Officer Duties 1-H

Brigade Fire Support Sergeant Duties 1-H

Brigade Fire Support Officer Working Relationships 1-11

CHAPTER 2

THE "WHAT' OF FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING
AND COORDINATION

Fire Support Planning 2-1

Decision-Making Process 2-3

Fire Support Plan Rehearsal 2-5

Fire Planning 2-7

Target Acquisition Assets

in a Brigade 2-11

Target List Work Sheet 2-12

Deliberate Fire Planning 2-12

Ouick Fire Planning 2-13

Fire Support Execution Matrix 2-15

Fire Support Coordination 2-18

Brigade Fire Support Coordination Checklist 2-21

Split Command Post Operations 2-23

CHAPTER 3

THE "HOW" OF FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING

Section I. INTRODUCTION 3-1

General 3-1

Maneuver Tactics and Fire Support 3-1

Section II. FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING FOR THE OFFENSE 3-1

Purpose of Offensive Operations 3-1

Types of Offensive Operations 3-1

Movement to Contact 3-2

Hasty Attack 3-7

FM 6-20-50

I !

Deliberate Attack ^ | 3-9

Exploitation 3-12

Pursuit 3-14

Special Offensive Operations 3-15

Section III. FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING FOR THE DEFENSE 3-16

Purpose of Defensive Operations 3-16

Types of Defensive Operations 3-16

Defend in Sector 3-16

Defend From a Battle Position 3-16

Defend From a Strongpoint 3-16

Perimeter Defense 3-17

Fire Support for Defensive Operations 3-18

Section IV. SPECIAL TECHNIQUES 3-20

Delay 3-20

Withdrawal 3-21

Passage of Lines 3-21

Deliberate River Crossing 3-24

Relief in Place 3-25

Encircled Forces 3-26

Linkup Operations 3-27

Security Operations 3-27

Reconnaissance Operations 3-28

CHAPTER 4
EXECUTION

Introduction 4-1

Key Fire Support Officer Considerations 4-1

Offensive Narrative Example 4-2

Defensive Narrative Example 4-14

APPENDIX A

LOW-INTENSITY CONFLICT

Description A-1

Mission A-1

Overall Threat A-2

Enemy A-2

Threat Assets A-4

Threat Concepts A-4

Fire Support A-4

III

FM 6-20-50

APPENDIX B

JOINT AND AIR ASSAULT OPERATIONS

Introduction B-1

Airborne Operations B-1

Amphibious Operations B-2

US Marine Corps Organizations B-5

USMC Fire Support Coordination Facilities B-8

Air Assault Operations B-10

Ranger Operations B- 16

APPENDIX C
FIRE SUPPORT ASSETS

Section I. FIELD ARTILLERY C-1

Missions C-1

Employment C-3

Considerations C-3

Section II. MORTARS C-3

Mission C-3

Characteristics and Capabilities C-3

Support and Command Relationships C-4

Employment C-4

Displacement C-5

Section III. TACTICAL AIR SUPPORT C-5

Missions C-5

Preplanned Close Air Support C-6

Immediate Close Air Support C-7

Organization C-9

Attack Coordination C-9

Planning Considerations C-12

Attack Execution C-19

Section IV. NAVAL GUNFIRE C-24

General Mission C-24

Organization C-24

Tactical Missions C-26

Capabilities C-26

Limitations C-26

Control Measures C-27

Communications C-27

FM 6-20-50

Naval and/or US Marine Corps Air C-28

Section V. ARMY AVIATION C-29

Fire Support Tasks

Capabilities C-29

Limitations C-29

Targets C-29

Section VI. JOINT AIR ATTACK TEAM C-29

Description C-29

When to Use JAAT C-30

Planning Considerations C-30

Preparation C-32

Execution C -33

APPENDIX D

FIRE SUPPORT TASKS SUMMARY

Major Tasks

Support Forces in Contact

Synchronize Fires

Defeat High-Payoff Targets D _2

Sustain

APPENDIX E

FIRE SUPPORT DOCUMENTS
APPENDIX F

FIRE PLANNING TERMS, SYMBOLS,

SCHEDULES, AND TOOLS

Target Terms

Target Numbering System

Target Symbols

Target List Work Sheet

Preparation of the Target List Work Sheet p .5

Types of Planned Fires

Scheduling of Fire Support Assets p .7

Target Overlay p .7

Scheduling Work Sheet p .7

Preparation of the Scheduling Work Sheet p.g

FM 6-20-50

APPENDIX G

FIRE SUPPORT COORDINATING MEASURES

Maneuver Control Measures Affecting Fire Support G-1

Fire Support Coordinating Measures G-1

Permissive Measures G-2

Restrictive Measures G-3

APPENDIX H
COMMUNICATIONS

Introduction

Communications Systems H-1

Radio Net Structures ^'1

Single-Channel Ground- Airborne Radio System H-5

Battlefield Electronic CEOI System H-5

Loss of Communication H-5

Retransmission H-5

Communications Planning Ranges H-6

Field-Expedient Antennas H-6

Extended-Range Communication H-11

APPENDIX I

SPECIAL MUNITIONS

Section I. FAMILY OF SCATTERABLE MINES 11

Employment Considerations 1"1

Capabilities 1‘1

Employment Options l'^

Basic Uses of FASCAM 1'2

Firing In Artillery-Delivered Mines 1'6

Choosing Minefield Width and Density 1‘6

Fire Unit Selection Considerations I'l'

Safety Zone Determination 1"7

Scatterable Minefield Report I'lO

Field Artillery Employment Tables 1‘10

Section II. OBSCURANTS 1-16

Applications ^"16

Employment Considerations I'l^

Sources of Obscurants Available to the Fire Support Officer 1-17

Obscurant Employment T asks 1-18

- FM 6-20-50

Section III. COPPERHEAD 1-20

Description 1-20

GA^LLD Employment 1-20

Copperhead Employment 1-21

Positioning for Copperhead Employment 1-21

Copperhead Coverage Template 1-22

Section IV. CHEMICAL MUNITIONS 1-27

Chemical Munitions Employment 1-27

Planning for Chemical Munitions 1-27

Section V. NUCLEAR MUNITIONS 1-28

Nuclear Employment 1-28

Nuclear Planning 1-28

Nuclear Execution 1-28

Nuclear Vulnerability Analysis 1-28

Fire Support Coordination 1-28

Fire Support Officer Responsibilities 1-28

Aimpoint Refinement 1-29

APPENDIX J

COMBAT OBSERVATION/LASING TEAM

Description J-1

Organization J-1

General Considerations J-1

Seeker Characteristics J-2

Seeker Types J-3

Designator and Seeker Pulse Code J-3

Employment Options J-4

Current and Projected Laser Systems J-5

APPENDIX K

TARGET VALUE ANALYSIS

Description K-1

Definitions K-1

TVA Tools K-2

Spread Sheets K-2

Target Sheet K-6

High-Payoff Target List K-12

The TVA Process K-13

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FM 6-20-50

Coordination K-13

Use of Spread Sheets K-13

Development of the High-Payoff T arget List K-13

Preparation of Target Attack Guidance Matrix K-14

Preparation for Future Operations K-16

Integration of TVA Process Into Fire Support Planning K-16

APPENDIX L

ENVIRONMENTAL AND TERRAIN CONSIDERATIONS
FOR FIRE SUPPORT

Mountain Operations L-1

Jungle Operations L-3

Desert Operations L-6

Night Operations L-9

Continuous Operations L-11

Military Operations on Urban Terrain L-12

Cold Weather Operations L-14

APPENDIX M

REPRODUCIBLE FORMS AND TEMPLATE PATTERNS

DA Forms M-1

T emplate Patterns M-1

GLOSSARY Glossary-1

REFERENCES References-l

INDEX Index-1

Vlll

PREFACE

FM 6-20-50

The purpose of this publication is to provide light forces fire support officers and
enlisted personnel at maneuver company, battalion, and brigade with a how-to
manual. It focuses on fire support officers (FSOs) in light infantry, airborne infantry,
air assault infantry, and infantry at brigade and below.

This publication describes maneuver techniques and fire support considerations at
maneuver brigade and below. It establishes responsibilities and duties of key
personnel by focusing on how the fire support system can support the
ground-gaining arms. This manual is not a substitute for doctrinal literature.
Maneuver and fire support doctrine should be studied in depth to obtain a complete
understanding of doctrine, tactics, and techniques. That basic understanding is a
must in order to effectively apply the contents of this how-to manual.

The manual is fully compatible with the Army’s AirEand Battle doctrine and is
consistent with current joint and combined doctrine. It assumes that the user has a
fundamental understanding of the fire support principles set forth in FM 6-20.

This publication has undergone several draft revisions during its development.
Members of every light division artillery have provided input during the
development cycle. Numerous individual Redlegs helped make it the authoritative
fire support reference it is. Those units listed below provided representatives from
the field to a unique exercise encompassing major input and comprehensive rewrite
of the developed draft. The effort of these senior fire support officers resulted in the
publication now before you. It reflects the consensus of the field on fire support
tactics, techniques, and procedures for the brigades in light infantry divisions. The
field representatives were from -

Z 6th Infantry (Light) Division Artillery, Fort Richardson, Alaska
Z 7th Infantry (Light) Division Artillery, Fort Oral, California
Z 10th Mountain (Light) Infantry Division Artillery, Fort Dmm, New York
Z 25th Infantry (Light) Division Artillery Schofield Barracks, Hawaii
Z 82d Airborne Division Artillery, Fort Bragg, North Carolina

• 101st Airborne (Air Assault) Division Artillery, Fort Campbell, Kentucky

• 29th Infantry (Light) Division Artillery, Fort Belvoir, Virginia
Z 75th Ranger Regiment, Fort Benning, Georgia

Z Joint Readiness Training Center, Little Rock, Arkansas

FM 6-20-50

The US Army Field Artillery School (USAFAS) owes them, and many others, a
great debt of gratitude for the professionalism displayed in tme Redleg fashion.

The provisions of this publication are the subject of international agreements
(NATO Standardization Agreements [STANAGs] and Quadripartite Standardization
Agreements [QSTAGs]):

Z 2014/506 Operation Orders, Annexes to Operation Orders, and Administ rat ive and
Logistics Orders

• 2031/515 Proforma for Artillery Fire plan

• 2082 Relief of Combat Troops

Z 2099/531 Fire Coordination in Support of Land Forces
Z 2147/221 Target Nummbering System (Nonnuclear)

• 2887/217 Tactical Tasks and Responsibilities for Control of Artillery

The proponent of this publication is HQ TRADOC. Submit changes for improving
this publication on DA Form 2028 (Recommended Changes to Publications and
Blank Forms), and forward it directly to:

Commandant

US Army Field Artillery School

ATTN: ATSF-DD

Fort Sill, Oklahoma 73503-5600

Unless otherwise stated, whenever the masculine gender is used, both men
and women are included.

CHAPTER 1

FM 6-20-50

ORGANIZATION AND DUTIES

Section I. LIGHT FORCES ORGANIZATION

Mission

Light forces deploy worldwide to conduct
combat operations in low- and mid-intensity
confliets and to aeeomplish other missions as
the National Command Authority may direct.
When properly augmented, light forces can
operate for limited periods in high-intensity
conflicts.

NOTE: The low-inten sitv conflict is discussed in

detail Ir j Appendix A.

Characteristics

Light forces are composed primarily of
foot- mobile fighters. They are organized,
equipped, and trained to capitalize on the
eapabilities of dismounted infantry. They ean
negotiate all types of terrain and operate in all
geographic regions. They can adapt quickly to
various modes of transportation; when
necessary units are provided additional ground
or airlift transportation to ensure taetical
mobility. Brigades and battalions are fully
prepared to engage independently in small-unit
actions and to operate at eonsiderable distanees
from their parent headquarters. Like other
forces, light forces employ artillery, mortars,
tactical air (TACAIR), Army aviation, naval
gunfire, and reconnaissance assets in support of
the tactical operations plan. Airborne, air

assault, ranger, and amphibious units have
unique capabilities beyond those normally

assoeiated with light forees Some uni que

capabilities are addressed in Appendix B. For
additional capabilities and associated fire
support considerations, consult appropriate
tactical manuals.

Significant Features

Significant features of light forces are as
follows:

• Small organization of approximately 10,000
personnel per light infantry division.

Z Entire organization and its equipment
deployable by air in C-141 aircraft.

• Extremely high ratio of combat to combat
service support (CSS).

• Combat support (CS) and CSS units not
redundant; designed to provide minimum
essential support.

Z Commonality in organizational vehicles and
equipment.

• Designed to rapidly receive and integrate
augmentation forces and to support as
dictated by mission, enemy, terrain and
weather, and troops and time available
(METT-T).

Section ii. THE FIRE SUPPORT SYSTEM

Components

The fire support system supporting the light
forees is the collective body of target

acquisition and battlefield surveillance assets;
attack svstems (both lethal and nonlethal) and
munitions command and control systems and
facilities; technieal support (such as

1-1

FM 6-20-50

meteorological [met] and survey); and the
personne required to provide and manage fire
support. Fire support assets are described in
Appendix C.

Target Acquisition

Target acquisition assets are the
target-producing eyes and ears of the system.
They gather targeting information and targets by
using all available means. These means include,
but are not limited to, observers, radars,
intelligence and electronic warfare (lEW) assets
Army aviators, and frontline troops.

Attack Systems

The attack could be lethal or nonlethal, as in
the case of electronic jamming. Each
maneuver commander is provided or allocated
an indirect fire system to influence his portion
of the battlefield. The company commander
has an organic 60 -mm mortar section; the
battalion commander has an organic 81 -mm
mortar platoon. When the maneuver brigade is
committed to battle, the brigade commander
generally will be allocated a direct support
artillery battalion. Other assets that may be
provided to the maneuver force include Army
attack helicopters, TACAIR support, naval
gunfire (NGE), and lEW. Air defense and
engineer assets may also become important
components of the fire support system.

Command and Control

These are the elements that make the system
work. They translate the commander’s
concepts and desires into the technical and
tactical actions needed to attack targets quickly
and effectively.

Technical Support

Met and survey support is that technical part
of the fire support system that ensures
accurate unobserved fires, transfer of target
data and effective massed fires.

Fire Support Planning
and Coordination

Eire support planning is the continuous
process of acquiring and analyzing targets,
allocating fire support to targets, scheduling
the attack of targets, and synchronizing all
available fire support to achieve the
commander’ s intent and to support the scheme
of maneuver.

Eire support coordination is the process of
executing the fire support plan. It too is
continuous and runs concurrently with the
planning process during combat operations.

PRINCIPLES OF FIRE SUPPORT
PLANNING AND COORDINATION

Plan early and continuously.

Follow the eommander’s targeting guidanee.

Exploit all available targeting assets.

Consider the use of all available fire support
means, both lethal and nonlethal.

Use the lowest echelon capable of providing
effective fire support.

Use the most effective means.

Furnish the type of support appropriate.

Avoid unnecessary duplication.

Consider airspace coordination.

Provide adequate fire support.

Provide rapid and effective coordination.

Remain flexible.

Provide for the safeguarding and survivability of
friendly forces and/or installations.

1-2

FM 6-20-50

Section iii. FIRE SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS, PERSONNEL, AND DUTIES

Role of the Direct Support Field
Artillery Battalion Commander

The direct support (DS) field artillery (FA)
battalion commander is the fire support
coordinator (FSCOORD) for the supported
brigade. As such, he is specifically responsible
for fire support planning and coordination for
the maneuver brigade. He brings, as his
unique contribution to battle, his professional
assessment of the current and near-term
capabilities of his unit and of other fire
support assets supporting the force. His duty
location at any given time is where he can best
execute the maneuver commander’ s intent for
fire support. In addition to being personally in
charge of fire support coordination for the
brigade, the direct support FA battalion
commander is responsible for -

Z Training all personnel involved in fire support
to perform successfully all stated and implied
missions and tasks associated with providing
fire support to a maneuver force.

• Continuously articulating his assessment of
the current and future capabilities and the
status of all fire support assets supporting the
maneuver force. The FSCOORD may base
his assessment on reports or on personal
observation.

Z Providing a knowledgeable, experienced
officer as the brigade fire support officer. The
FSCOORD also must establish a special
mentor relationship with this officer, since the
FSO, in the absence of the FSCOORD,
personally represents him to the brigade
commander. More than any other officer, the
FSO must understand the FSCOORD’ s
intent in supporting the maneuver plan. In
addition, the FSCOORD must ensure that his
brigade FSO is equally conversant on the
FSCOORD’ s assessment of fire support
assets supporting the maneuver force.

• Commanding his battalion. As the
commander of the primary unit providing fire
support to the force, the FSCOORD is
responsible for the operational status of his
unit, its morale and response to critical
personnel shortages, and its current and
future logistic capabilities to support the
maneuver force.

NOTE: See FM 6-20-1 for additional discussion
on the responsibilities of the direct support FA
battalion commander.

Fire Support Team Organization

Fire support team (FIST) personnel for light
forces are as shown below.

FIRE SUPPORT TEAM PERSONNEL

TITLE

RANK

NUMBER

FIST HQ

Company FSO

Fire Support Sergeant

SSG

Fire Support Specialist

SPC

Radiotelephone
Operator (RATELO)’

PFC

Forward Observer (FO) Party
(Three per FIST)

Forward Observer

SGT

RATELO

PFC

^There Is no RATELO at FIST HQ In the airborne
and air assault divisions.

1-3

FM 6-20-50

Company Fire Support
Officer Duties

The company FSO is the maneuver company
FSCOORD. He integrates all fires to support
the company commander’s scheme of
maneuver. Although the FO is the primary
shooter for the company, the FSO must be an
expert at locating targets and adjusting fires.
His duties are to-

Z Plan, coordinate, and execute fire support.

• Advise the company commander on fire
support matters.

• Keep key personnel informed of pertinent
information (by spot reports and situation
reports [SITREPs])

Z Train the FIST and FOs in applicable fire
support matters.

Z Request, adjust, and direct all types of fire
support.

• Ensure that the fire support plan and/or fire
support execution matrix is prepared and
disseminated to key personnel.

• Advise the company commander on
positioning and use of company mortars.

Allocate FOs and other observers to maintain
surveillance of target and named areas of
interest.

Z Provide emergency control of close air
support (CAS)-missions in the absence of
qualified Air Force personnel (air liaison
officer [ALO]. enlisted terminal attack
controller [FT AC], and/or airborne forward
air controller [AFAC]).

Company Fire Support
Sergeant Duties

The company fire support sergeant is the
senior enlisted assistant to the company FSO.

The fire support sergeant acts as the company
FSO in his absence. He is responsible for
training all enlisted members assigned to the
team. He supervises the maintenance of all
equipment assigned to the section. The
company fire support sergeant must be able to
perform all duties of his FSO.

Company Fire Support Officer
Working Reiationships

The company FSO interacts and coordinates
with other personnelmel as discussed below.

Maneuver Commander

The company FSO is the unit FSCOORD. He
works with the company commander during
combat operations to successfully accomplish all
company-level fire suppor t tasks. (Fire su pport
tasks are summarized in I Appendix DJ) The
maneuver commander is responsible for
integrating fire support and maneuver. The
company FSO gives recommendations and
advice to the commander on all fire support
matters; therefore, he is the maneuver unit fire
support expert. Final decisions regarding
company fire support are made by the company
commander. The company FSO must work
closely with the company commander and will
go with him to receive plans and orders. The
FSO must understand the scheme of maneuver
as well as the company commander does. On
the basis of the commander’s guidance, the
FSO devises his fire support plan, which must
be pres ented to the com mander for his

approval, |(See Appendix E.)

Battalion Fire Support Officer

The company FSO reports to the battalion
FSO with regard to coordination of the
company fire support plan and its integration
into the battalion fire support plan. Also, he is
responsible to the battalion FSO for the
operations and readiness of organic FIST
personnel and equipment. The company FSO
provides updated friendly and enemy

1-4

FM 6-20-50

battlefield information to the battalion FSO.
This information includes forward line of own
troops (PLOT) location, situation reports, spot
reports, and other essential elements of
friendly information (EEFI) and priority
intelligence requirements (PIR). The battalion
FSO is responsible for supervision and training
of the company FSO.

Fire Support Team Headquarters

The company FSO is responsible for leading
his team and supervising its training in all
aspects of fire support. The primary trainer of
the FIST personnel is the fire support
sergeant. In addition, the company FSO
ensures his team is fully equipped and that the
equipment is fully operational. In light infantry
organizations, most operations are conducted
on foot (the force may be inserted by aircraft
but will conduct operations on foot).
Therefore, the company FSO can easily
collocate with the company commander. In
this case, the company FIST headquarters
(HQ) becomes a part of the maneuver
company headquarters. Most maneuver
company HQ have an SOP delineating how
the company HQ will locate, move, and
provide security in tactical operations. It is
very important that all members of the
company FIST know and comply with the
SOP.

Forward Observers

Z Known points.

• Fire support coordinating measures. (See
Appendix G.)

• Priority of fires.

• Degree of control.

Z Commander’s intent.

As the eyes and ears of the company, the FOs
must report battlefield information to the
company FSO. This information includes
FLOT location, SITREPs, and spot reports.

Company Fire Support Officer
and/or Fire Support Sergeant
Required Actions

The actions the company FSO must take
before any operation begins depend primarily
on the current situation and the applicable
SOP. The FIST will deploy with the maneuver
company on all combat operations.

To prepare for operation, the company FSO
must -

Z Train the FOs.

Z Train the company personnel to call for and
adjust fires.

The FOs are the primary shooters for the
company and are normally collocated with the
maneuver platoon leaders. The company FSO
is responsible for training the FOs to call for
fire efficiently. He must give enough
information to the FOs to ensure they
understand how the fire support plan is to be
integrated into the commander’s scheme of
maneuver. This information includes -

Z Target numbers.

Target lists. (See Appendix F.)

• Ensure all equipment is properly maintained.

Z Ensure that the FIST personnel know the
company tactical SOP (TSOP).

As the company FSCOORD, the FSO
should -

• Obtain a mission briefing from the company
commander, to include the following:

©Scheme of maneuver and/or commander's
intent.

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FM 6-20-50

©Locations of platoons, crew-served © FA task organization,
weapons, mortars, listening posts (LPs), and

observation posts (OPs). ° Army aviation available.

Z Provide the company commander with the

following information:

© Fire support assets available and
ammunition status for each system (such as
percentage of basie load or fire missions
available for each system).

Z Obtain the following information from the

battalion FSO:

• Provide the FO parties with the following:

Establish communi cations with the following

(see Appendix H):

Battalion Fire Support Organization

The battalion FSO is the FSCOORD at
maneuver battalion. He is in charge of the fire
support element (FSE) and is the prineipal
fire support advisor to the maneuver
commander. The FSE is located with the
operations element of the maneuver force.

1-6

FM 6-20-50

BATTALION FIRE SUPPORT
ELEMENT PERSONNEL

TITLE

RANK

NUMBER

Fire Support Officer

CPT

Fire Support Sergeant

SEC

Fire Support Specialist

SPC

When added to the FSE to perform their fire
support functions, other representatives
comprise a functional fire support cell (FS cell)
to enhance and speed fire support coordination.
These representatives may include the
following:

Z S3 air.

• Mortar platoon leader.

Z Battalion chemical officer.

Z Tactical air control party.

• Supporting arms liaison team (SALT).

• Other liaison officers (allied forces or Army
aviation representatives).

Z Training the company FSOs.

• Preparing and disseminating the fire plan
and/or fire support execution matrix.

• Coordinating with the TACP on TACAIR
missions and CAS control personnel (ALO,
ETAC, and/or AFAC).

Battalion Fire Support
Sergeant Duties

The battalion fire support sergeant is the
senior enlisted assistant to the battalion FSO.
The fire support sergeant acts as the FSO in
his absence. He is responsible for the training
of enlisted personnel of the battalion FSE and
three maneuver EISTS. He advises the ESO on
the EIST fire support sergeants’ performance
of NCO related duties. He supervises the
maintenance of all equipment assigned to
these sections. The battalion fire support
sergeant must be able to perform all the duties
of his ESO.

Battalion Fire Support Officer
Working Relationships

The battalion FSO interacts and coordinates
with personnel as discussed below.

Battalion Fire Support
Officer Duties

The battalion FSO’s primary duty is to plan,
coordinate, and execute fires to support the
commander’s scheme of maneuver. His duties
include -

• Advising the maneuver commander and his
staff on fire support matters.

• Keeping key personnel (maneuver battalion
commander, brigade FSO, DS battalion
command post [CP], and so forth) informed
of pertinent information (such as battlefield
intelligence).

Z Supervising all functions of the battalion FS
cell.

Maneuver Commander

The battalion FSO is the commander’s fire

support expert. The maneuver commander -

• States his intentions through his concept of
the operation as well as his commander’s
intent.

Z Specifies priority of fires, including allocation
of FPFs.

• Specifies fire support coordinating measures
required.

Z Specifies special munitions required (smoke,
illumination, lethal chemical, riot control
agents, fa mily of scatter able mines
rFASCAMD I (See ADDenduTLi

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FM 6-20-50

Maneuver Battalion S3

The S3 integrates fire support into the scheme
of maneurver in accordance with the
commander’s guidance. The S3-

• Develops the commander’s intent into a
scheme of maneuver or plan for the defense.

Z Establishes boundaries for subordinate units
and other maneuver control measures (phase
lines, passage points, checkpoints).

Z Answers questions and elaborates on
commander’s guidance concerning priority of
fires, special munitions, use of TACAIR,
employment o f attached COLTS (see

Appendix J), assignment of EPFs,
employment of mortars, and/or any other
areas involving fire support planning and
coordination.

• Integrates TACAIR support into the
commander’ s scheme of maneuver.

Z Forwards preplanned and immediate
TACAIR requests to brigade.

Z Is the point of contact for Army aviation
requests.

Maneuver Battalion S2

The battalion S2 constructs a reconnaissance
and surveillance plan for the maneuver
commander. He also conducts intelligence
preparation of the battlefield (IPB).

Maneuver Battalion Signal Officer

The maneuver battalion signal officer
(BSO) is a signal officer on the special
staff. The BSO -

Brigade Fire Support Officer

The brigade FSO is responsible for planning

and coordinating all fire support for maneuver

operations. He -

• Disseminates fire support guidance as it
applies to the battalion FSO (such as
preplanned CAS missions, availability of
immediate CAS, additional fire support
assets, and target lists).

Z Disseminates the pulse repetition frequency
(PRF) codes for laser designators.

• Recommends fire support coordinating
measures.

Z Writes and disseminates the brigade fire
support plan.

• Trains battalion FSOs.

Maneuver Battalion S3 Air

The battalion S3 air -

• Works closely with the FSO to prioritize CAS
requests.

• Advises the commander and/or S3 on all
communications and electronics matters
including positioning command and control
elements.

Z Is the FSO’s point of contact for signal
operation instructions (SOI) issue during
operations and for communications
troubleshooting.

• Is responsible for repair, turn-in, and
exchange of communications equipment of
attached fire support assets. Coordinates for
batteries and communications supplies.

• Has a retransmission capability that permits
radio communications on one net over a
greater distance.

Task Force Engineer

The engineer coordinates the location and
target numbering of all obstacles to support the
scheme of maneuver. The FSO logs and reports
all nominations for field artillery delivered
FASCAM to the brigade FSO and DS battalion
CP according to SOP and availability of
augmenting artillery.

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FM 6-20-50

Direct Support Field Artillery
Battalion Command Post

The field artillery battalion CP may coordinate
with the battalion FSO during quick fire
planning.

Maneuver Chemical Officer

When brigade has asked for nomination of
chemical targets for friendly attack, the FSO
coordinates with the chemical officer for the
location of contaminated areas and NBC
defense measures. The FSO also coordinates
with the chemical officer for the use of riot
control agents and obscurants.

Mortar Platoon Leader

The battalion FSO gets the following from the
mortar platoon leader:

• Mortar positions and ammunition and tube
status.

• Requests for survey and met support.

Tactical Air Control Party

The tactical air control party -

Z Advises the maneuver commander and his
staff on the capabilities, limitations, and use
of TACAIR support.

• Helps process TACAIR requests.

Z Controls CAS sorties supporting the
battalion.

• Gives the battalion FSO TACAIR
information and characteristics.

Supporting Arms Liaison Team

The supporting arms liaison team -

• Provides capabilities and employment
considerations of naval gunfire and Navy and
Marine air.

• Monitors firepower control team requests for
fire support.

Company Fire Support Officers

The company FSOs work for the battalion
FSO.

The battalion FSO provides guidance,
battlefield intelligence, information on fire
support assets, fire support coordinating
measures, and technical advice to the
company FSOs. Company FSOs send target
lists, FLOT locations, SITREPSs spot
reports, and other PIR to the battalion fire
support element.

Requests for fires from the FISTS or
observers may be sent directly to the field
artillery over the FA fire direction (FD)
net, or they may be sent through the
battalion FSO. The method used depends
on the fire support assets available,
situation, equipment on hand, and so forth.
Also, requests for mortars may be handled
in the same manner.

Brigade Fire Support Organization

The brigade fire support element is organized
with personnel as shown below.

BRIGADE FIRE SUPPORT
ELEMENT PERSONNEL

TITLE

RANK

NUMBER

Fire Support Officer

MAJ

Plans/Targeting Officer

CPT

Fire Support Sergeant

SFC

Fire Support Specialist

SPC

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FM 6-20-50

When added to the FSE to perform their fire
support functions, other representatives
comprise a functional FS cell to enhance and
speed fire support coordination. These
representatives may include the following:

• ALO for matters concerning the coordination
and employment of Air Force assets in
support of the brigade.

• Naval gunfire liaison officer (NGLO) for
matters concerning the coordination and
employment of naval gunfire and naval air in
sup-port of the brigade.

Z Brigade chemical officer for matters
concerning chemical agents, riot control
agents, obscurants, aerosol agents, and
employment of NBC defense.

ZS3 air as a maneuver assistant S3 and to
coordinate the employment of T AC AIR and
Army aviation with the FSO, ALO, and air
defense platoon leader.

• Other representatives as required, such as
liaison officers of allied forces supporting the
operation or an Army aviation liaison officer
when Army aviation is used as a fire support
asset.

In addition to the staff officers discussed above
and at battalion level, other staff members
who may be in the brigade tactical CP are -

Z The air defense (AD) platoon leader, who
manages the air defense assets in support of
the brigade. He should have valuable
information on the location of enemy air
defense targets, airspace coordination, and
the enemy air situation.

Z The engineer company commander, whose
assets may be in direct support of the
maneuver brigade. Coordinate with him on the
coverage of obstacles, the use of FASCAM,
and general battlefield mobility and
countermobility.

• The lEW representative from the divisional
combat electronic warfare intelligence
(CEWI) assets. He controls and supervises
the lEW assets that may be in support of the
brigade. He can provide targets and
information and is the tie-in for the offensive
use of jamming. The FSO needs a working
knowledge of the lEW assets available from
this source to effectively coordinate their use
in the attack of targets.

Brigade Fire Support Officer Duties

The DS artillery battalion commander
(FSCOORD) cannot be at the brigade
headquarters continually. The brigade FSO
serves as a full-time liaison between the DS
FA battalion and the maneuver brigade. He
helps the maneuver brigade S3 integrate fire
support into the maneuver commander’s
scheme of operation. Assisting the FSO are the
other staff officers who make up the FS cell.
The duties of the brigade FSO are as follows:

ZBe responsible to the DS battalion
commander to train subordinates in all facets
of their duties.

ZKeep the brigade commander informed of
available fire support assets, their capabilities
and limitations, and their tactical missions.

ZKeep the brigade commander informed of
enemy indirect fire capabilities and
limitations.

• Help the brigade commander develop his
estimate of the situation and war-game
possible courses of action, resulting in the
creation of the decision support template.

Z Develop the brigade fire support plan and/or
fire support execution matrix; brief the
commander and get his approval of the plan
and/or matrix; and disseminate the approved
plan and/or matrix to the DS artillery
battalion, the battalion FSOs, the division
FSE, and the division artillery (div arty) CP.

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FM 6-20-50

• EnSure battalion FSOs plan fires in
accordance with the commander’s guidance.

• Consolidate target lists from the battalion
FSOs, and resolve duplications.

• Coordinate requests for additional fire
support from battalion FSOs when the fire
support means available at eompany or
battalion level are inadequate.

Z Recommend fire support eoordinating
measures.

• Coordinate with the AFO in the brigade use
of T AC AIR assets.

Brigade Plans/Targeting
Officer Duties

The plans/targeting offieer aets as the FSO in
the absence of the FSO. Also, he interfaces
with the brigade S2 and helps him and the
FSO by providing information regarding the
vulnerabilities of targets. He advises the
brigade S2 regarding speeifie requirements for
accuracy of target location assurance and level
of target description, and duration the target
may be considered viable for attack by fire
support systems. His duties are as follows:

Help the brigade S2 write the target acquisition
and surveillance plan.

* Help provide staff supervision of the target
acquisition (TA) assets attached organic, and
under operational eontrol (OPCON) of the
brigade.

^ Develop, recommend to the commander, and
disseminate the attack guidance matrix to the
division FS cell, DS artillery battalion CP, and
subordinate ele ments; recommend changes in
attack guidance f(See Appendix K.|

* Determine, recommend, and proeess
time- sensitive high-payoff targets to the fire
support element.

Z Coordinate with the maneuver brigade S2 for
target acquisition coverage and proeessing of
brigade high-payoff targets.

Z With the brigade S2, produce target selection
standards matrix for TA assets working for
the brigade.

Brigade Fire Support
Sergeant Duties

The brigade fire support sergeant is the
senior enlisted assistant to the brigade FSO.
He may act as shift leader in the FSE. He
is responsible for the enlisted training of
three maneuver battalion FSEs, nine
maneuver FISTS, and assigned COFTS. He
supervises the maintenance of all
equipment assigned to these sections. The
brigade fire support sergeant must be able
to perform all the duties of his FSO.

Brigade Fire Support Officer
Working Reiationships

The brigade FSO interacts and coordinates
with personnel as discussed below.

Maneuver Brigade Commander and/or S3

The maneuver commander is the person
responsible for the operation. The
maneuver S3 is detailed responsibility for
the integration of fire support into the
operation.

Direct Support Battalion Commander

The DS battalion commander is the brigade
FSCOORD. He is accountable to the
maneuver brigade commander for the
quality of fire support provided the
maneuver brigade. He helps the maneuver
S3 integrate fire support into the combined
arms operation. He is responsible for the
training of all fire support personnel
supporting the brigade.

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FM 6-20-50

Division Fire Support Cell

The division FS cell is the next higher link in
the fire support chain. The division FS cell
provides guidance to the brigade FS cell, and
both FS cells exchange fire support planning
and coordination information.

Battalion Fire
Support Officers

The brigade FSO is responsible for the
technical supervision of the battalion FSOs.
He ensures that they properly develop and
execute their fire support plan.

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FM 6-20-50

CHAPTER 2

THE "WHAT" OF FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING
AND COORDINATION

Fire Support Planning

Fire support planning is the continuing process
of analyzing, allocating, and scheduling fire
support. It determines how fire support will be
used, what types of targets will be attacked, when
they will be attacked, and with what means. The
goal is to effectively integrate fire support into
battle plans to optimize combat power. To do
this, fire support planning is concurrent with
battle planning. Planning must be flexible to
accommodate the unexpected in combat and to
facilitate rapid change. It anticipates the massing
of fire support assets, changes in the force
mission, realistic movement times, resupply,
target acquisition technical support to include
survey and met requirements, and the
replacement of entire units. In fire support
planning, the FSO must consider three vital sets
of information:

Z Commander’s intent and/or scheme of
maneuver.

• Mission, enemy, terrain and weather, and
troops and time available.

• Guidance from higher FA headquarters.

These three items cannot be considered
separately. Each impacts on the others.

Commander’s Intent

At each level, the FSO plans fires as the
commander outlines his scheme of maneuver.
The FSO must know when and where the
commander wants fire support. He must fully
understand what the commander wants in the
way of effects, duration, and timing. To truly
understand the commander’s intent, the FSO
must know why the commander wants support.
He must also understand how the unit direct fire
assets are to be used so he can supplement not
interfere with, their employment. The FSO must
seek and understand the commander’s guidance
and intent and be prepared to recommend the
integration of available fire support. The FSO
must inform the maneuver brigade commander
and the S3 of the FA logistics cost for
implementing the fire support battlefield
operating system (BOS) for each course of
action. This information must be presented
during the war-gaming portion of the command
estimate process. Also, the FSO informs the
commander of all changes to the fire support
plan he receives through fire support channels.

METT-T

All levels of command continuously analyze
information while considering factors of
METT-T.

CONSIDERATIONS OF METT-T

FACTOR

CONSIDERATIONS

Mission

What Is the mission?

What are the commander's concept of the operation and scheme of maneuver?
What is the commander's Intent?

What is the objective of the operation?

What route is the unit using?

What are the intermediate objectives?

What are the missions of the higher, lower, and adjacent units?

Are there any contingency missions?

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FM 6-20-50

CONSIDERATIONS OF METT-T (CONTINUED)

FACTOR

CONSIDERATIONS

Enemy

What are the capabilities and limitations of enemy forces In the unit zone of action
(for example, fire support assets, direct fire weapons, and vehicle mobility)?

What are the likely courses of action?

Where are known, suspected, and likely enemy locations?

How does the enemy employ his forces (artillery, patrols, FOs, attack helicopters)?

Terrain and
Weather

Consider observation, cover and concealment, obstacles, key terrain, and avenues of
aooroach (OCOKA), l(See Aooendlx B.)|

What Is observation like In sector?

Are cover and concealment available In sector?

Where are the obstacles (man-made and natural) In sector?

Where Is the key terrain?

Where are likely positions for ambushes, IPs, OPs, and killing zones?

Where are the avenues of approach?

What Is the weather forecast, and how will It affect mobility and visibility?

How does terrain affect mobility, both friendly and enemy?

What munitions are best suited for the terrain and weather?

Are appropriate fire support coordinating measures tied to terrain, when applicable?

NOTE; Environmental and terrain considerations are discussed In Appendix L

Troops Available

What Is the status of FIST arrd/or FS cell training, experience, personnel, and
equipment?

What fire support assets are available, and what are their locations and/or capabilities?
What is the status of the supported unit?

What Is the status of the observers In sector (forward observers, COLTs, scouts, and
so forth)?

Time Available

How long before the operation begins?

How much time Is available to Are-plan?

How long will It take to coordinate the fire plan?
How long is the operation expected to last?

Guidance From Higher Headquarters

Higher headquarters will give the FSO
information essential to the fire support plan.
This information includes -

2-2

• The commander's intent at the level.
Z Fire support assets available.

• Fire support coordinating measures.

FM 6-20-50

• Target lists.

• Schedules of fires.

• Constraints on FA Class V consumption,
stated in terms of a controlled supply rate
(CSR).

• Technical advice on fire support matters.

Decision-Making Process

The decision-making process is as detailed, or
as simple, as time permits. The commander
plays the central role in this process, with the
staff providing advice and information related
to their respective areas. The process is
primarily downward, beginning at higher
echelons and progressing down to the company
FSO. Its effectiveness requires continuous
interaction and bottom-up feedback. The
following paragraphs describe some fire
support aspects of the decision-making process
at company, battalion, and brigade levels.

When the maneuver commander receives his
mission (step 1) and issues his initial planning
guidance (step 2), the corresponding FS cell
receives guidance from the higher FS cell. As
a minimum this guidance should include the
following:

• Fire support asset allocation and status.

• Commander’s target attack guidance.

• Fires in the zone planned by higher
headquarters.

The commander analyzes and restates the
mission and issues his intent and planning
guidance (step 3). This planning guidance
may have several courses of action. Upon
receipt, the staff take the following actions:

Z The FSO makes his staff estimate (step 4). He
interacts with the other staff members and

war-games the courses of action to determine
the suitability of fire support to support the
courses of action.

Z The S2 analyzes the area of operations (AO)
and focuses the IPB process. He informs
other staff members of the known enemy
locations, capabilities and projected courses
of action of the enemy force, and assets that
are most important to the accomplishment of
the enemy mission. He determines which
organic and attached collection assets
(maneuver, fire support, and military
intelligence) can acquire those enemy assets.
He also tasks and provides staff supervision
of the collection assets. If time permits, the
S2 and the targeting officer identify
high-value targets within the brigade zone.

The staff members prepare and brief their
estimates to the commander. The FSO must
be able to brief the fire support requirements
for each course of action and recommend the
best one from a fire support perspective. The
requirements he should be prepared to discuss
include the following:

Z Assets available to support the operation.

Z Capabilities and limitations of fire support for
each course of action (both friendly and
enemy).

The commander gives his estimate and makes
a decision. He issues his concept, stating how
he visualizes the conduct of the battle (step 5).
As he develops his battle plan for the
employment of maneuver forces, he must also
visualize and articulate how he will use his fire
support resources, which subordinate echelon
he will weight with fire support, and what
targets to attack. Subordinate commanders and
their FSOs may be present. The commander
issues guidance to the staff regarding
prioritization of targets, desired effects, and
targets that require some sort of formal
assessment after attack.

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FM 6-20-50

DECISION-MAKING PROCESS

STAFF

ACTIONS

MISSION

RECEIVED

COMMANDER’S

ACTIONS

^In tIme-crItIcal situations, the commander may be forced to base his estimate on hIs personal knowledge of
the situation and Issue oral orders to his subordinate units.

FM 6-20-50

Plans and orders are prepared (step 6). The FSO,
assisted by the other fire support staff officers,
writes the fire support plan. The brigade FSO
plans fires in support of the brigade operation in
accordance with the commander’s concept,
intent, and scheme of maneuver. Fires planned
outside the brigade zone are coordinated with
higher and adjacent units. Fires planned in the
brigade rear are coordinated with the S3 and the
controlling agency in the brigade support area
(BSA), normally the S4. The fire plan, with
target lists and schedules, is disseminated to
higher and adjacent units and to the battalion
FSOs. The targeting officer helps the S2 write
the target acquisition and surveillance plans. As a
minimum the fire support plan should include -

• Availability and status of fire support assets.

• Priority of fires and how that priority will be
executed.

• Planned fire support within the zone.

• Fire support execution matrix.

• Target lists.

• Attack guidance matrix.

• Any requirements the higher FS cell will
place on subordinate FS cells.

Retransmission requirements for communi-
cations, depending on terrain.

The commander approves the plan or order

(step 7).

The written plan is disseminated to the
subordinate units (step 8). The FSO at each
level should accompany his maneuver
commander when he receives briefings from
higher headquarters on plans or orders.

Before execution, plans are refined as follows:

• Target lists are refined and duplications
resolved; company FSOs are particularly
valuable in this refinement.

• Schedules are updated and disseminated.

• Additional fire support assets are requested.

• The collection plan is reviewed to ensure it is
compatible with the fire support plan.

• Information collected by sensors before and
during execution is processed. The targeting
officer monitors reports by collection assets,
updates target lists, and submits to the FS cell
time- sensitive targets not in the fire support
system.

• The field artillery support plan is developed
by the FA battalion S3. It is based on the
information received from the FA battalion
commander and the brigade FSO. This plan
embodies the DS battalion commander’s
concept for executing the fire support plan
supporting the brigade commander’s intent.
The DS battalion commander briefs the
brigade commander on the FA support plan,
which is the FA battalion operation order.

The fire support plan rehearsal (discussed
below) is an important part of step 9 of the
decision-making process.

As the plan is executed, the FSO continues
planning. As the battle progresses, the
commander may issue new guidance to reflect
changes in enemy equipment and tactics,
changes in friendly capability, and changes in
the unit mission.

Fire Support Plan Rehearsal

The FSO should gather all available members of
the FS cell to actively participate in the
maneuver commander’s rehearsal. Rehearsals
improve total comprehension of the plan.
Participants who are unclear on specific portions
of the plan find answers through the
repetitiveness afforded by war-gaming the
operation. The maneuver course of action and
supporting fire plan should be analyzed in
anticipation of enemy courses of action that
might occur during actual execution of the plan.

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FM 6-20-50

In addition to war-gaming possible enemy
courses of action, the rehearsal may address the
use of primary and alternate communications
nets: alternative attack systems to be used in the
engagement of specified targets; and positioning
of munitions, observers, and weapon systems.
The rehearsal improves responsiveness of fires
and the synchronization of all the maneuver
commander’s resources for the battle.

At any level, fire support participants in a
maneuver commander’ s rehearsal should include
all members of the FS cell and any subordinate
FS cell members associated with participating
subordinate maneuver headquarters. These
members include the FSCOORD and/or FSO,
ALO, NGLO and/or SALT officer, mortar
platoon leader, chemical officer, and Army
aviation liaison officer, as applicable. The FA
battalion S3 will benefit from the maneuver
commander’ s rehearsal by obtaining information
for movement, schedules of fire submitted by the
FSOs, munition requirements, and a more
complete understanding of the operational time
involved with the scheme of maneuver. Also, the
S2, the intelligence and electronic warfare
support element (lEWSE) team leader, and the
engineer officer, in particular, should be present.
They should participate in the war-gaming of
significant events, such as target acquisition
employment and obstacle emplacement.

If the maneuver commander does not conduct
a rehearsal and rehearsal time is available, the
FSCOORD and/or FSO should conduct a fire
support rehearsal by using the existing
maneuver operation plan (OPLAN), fire
support plan, and fire support execution
matrix. The fire support execution matrix is
ideal for use in the rehearsal, since the
rehearsal is normally conducted by performing
and/or reciting -

• Actions to occur.

• Possible friendly initiatives.

• Possible reactions to enemy initiatives.

Z Control measures.

• Significant events that are to occur in relation
to time or phases of an operation.

The rehearsal conducted by only fire
support personnel is limited in that the
success of the rehearsal and benefits to be
derived from it depend on how well the
FSCOORD and/or FSO conducting the
rehearsal know the maneuver commander’s
concept of the operation. Within the DS
artillery battalion, the commander, S3,
FSO, and S2 structure the fire support
rehearsal in accordance with the enemy’s
most likely course of action and the
friendly scheme of maneuver. At the
appropriate time, each participant carries
out his part of the plan. The FSOs execute
their assigned targets, place fire support
coordinating measures into effect, and
make the reports the battalion depends on
for its combat information. The FOs do the
same. They ensure that their assigned
missions, especially high-priority ones like
FPFs, are loaded in the buffers of their
digital message devices (DMDs) and ready
for transmission. The ALOs monitor
airspace coordination procedures, clear
aircraft to depart from the initial point
(IP), call for target marking, and request
fires for suppression of enemy air defenses
(SEAD). The DS battalion CP monitors all
of this. The battalion operations and
intelligence (O&I) section pays particular
attention to displacements. The battalion
fire direction center (FDC) issues fire
orders and passes messages to observers. If
there is a mutual support unit, the two
FDCs exercise transfer of control. Attached
radars work situational cues with the cueing
agents. Each fire unit EDC computes fire
commands, acknowledges fire support
coordinating measures, and ensures that it
can fire its assigned mission. Where
alternative friendly courses of action hinge
on enemy actions and when time permits,
the alternatives may be rehearsed.

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FM 6-20-50

Note the important features of the rehearsal. It
presupposes a complete plan - a plan complete
enough to be executed. It is designed to show
whether everyone knows his responsibilities
(for example, for firing a target, moving a
battery, switching frequencies, observing a
named area of interest) and the cues for his
action. It allows a check on whether the plan
will work. For example, observers confirm that
they can see their targets and FDCs confirm
that they have ballistic solutions to their
targets. Finally, the rehearsal as a whole is
clearly under someone’s direction.

There are many ways to conduct rehearsals.
When time is limited, you will not have a
chance to rehearse everything. You must
streamline your plan and focus your
rehearsal on critical events. Some rehearsal
methods are discussed below.

Suitable or Actual Terrain

The use of a suitable maneuver area or the
actual area in which the operation is to be
conducted is the best method for
conducting a rehearsal because of its
increased realism. Communications lines of
sight, clutter on specific communications
nets, trigger points or target reference
points (TRPs), and actual operational times
required to move from position to position
may be visually simulated. This method
requires a large area and an increased
amount of preparation and planning time.
Its use may depend on operational or signal
security considerations.

Model Rehearsal

Models may be constructed showing
buildings, compounds, or built-up areas.
This type of rehearsal requires good
intelligence information on the area of
operation and more time to construct the
model itself. This type of rehearsal is
normally used for special operations.

Map Rehearsal

This rehearsal may be conducted on any map
with the appropriate overlays. This method may
be used when time and rehearsal space are
limited. Using this method limits the number of
participants to those who can gather around a
single map unless individual maps are used.
Actions to be taken are recited by the
participants.

Sand Table

The sand table method expands the area in
which rehearsal participants may gather around
a single graphical representation of the
operation. Maneuver graphics may be depicted
by using engineer tape, string, or spray paint
or simply by cawing out lines in the ground.
Key terrain, topography, and objectives may be
depicted by the use of rocks, items of
equipment, or piles of earth. Preparing for this
rehearsal method requires more time;
however, it generally permits more participants
and is a better visual aid.

Radio Rehearsal
and Communications Exercise

This exercise is conducted on FS nets by using
the brigade or battalion fire support plans or
execution matrixes when the time available and
the situation do not allow assembly of key
personnel.

Fire Planning

Plan the minimum targets necessary to support
the scheme of maneuver. The targeting
process, a critical component of the fire
planning process, is based on the friendly
scheme of maneuver. It requires close
interaction among the commander, S2,
targeting officer, S3, FS cell, and various
combat support agencies. It includes an
assessment of the terrain and enemy and an
identification of those enemy formations,
equipment, facilities, and terrain which must

2-7

FM 6-20-50

be attacked to ensure success. It also involves
anticipating the requirement for SEAD fires in
support of CAS assets.

Process

Fire planning begins with the commander’s
guidance and intent. It continues through
the development of a prioritized list
specifying what targets are to be attacked
and when (decide), the acquisition of those
high-payoff targets (detect), and the
determination of attack options to be used
(fire support, maneuver, electronic warfare
[EW], or a combination) to defeat the
target (deliver). It concludes with the
assessment of the effects of the attack.

Offensive Fire Planning

For fire planning, offensive operations may
be divided into four phases: short of the
line of departure (ED) or line of contact
(EC), from the ED or EC to the objective,
on the objective, and beyond the objective.

Defensive Fire Planning

In the defense, the FSO should consider
planning fires in front of, on, and behind
the position.

Analysis

After the FSO has collected the targets
available to him, he must analyze them to
determine which ones will be included in
the fire plan. Having too many targets is as
bad as having too few targets to support
the scheme of maneuver. It is imperative
that FS cells be able to reference targets
quickly. The target list will be reduced by -

• Resolving duplication of targets.

• Removing targets that do not fit the
commander’s intent or support the scheme of
maneuver.

2-8

FM 6-20-50

OFFENSIVE FIRE PLANNING

PHASE

ACTiONS TO BE TAKEN

Short of the LD
or LC

Consider planning fires -

• To support the unit movement to the LD or LC.

• To support the unit if the attack falls and the enemy counterattacks.

• To Impede enemy patrols and early warning systems.

LO or LD to the
Objective

Provide priority of fires to lead elements.

Consider planning -

• Fires to suppress enemy direct fire weapons.

• Smoke to restrict enemy observation of frler*dly maneuver elements.

• Smoke to screen friendly obstacle breaching operations.

• Fires on exposed flanks.

Consider placing an observer with overwatch elements.

Consider recommending a preparation fire If the advantages outweigh the
disadvantages:

• Will the enemy be forewarned of an attack If a preparation is fired?

• Will the loss of surprise significantly affect the chance for success?

• Are there enough significant targets to justify the preparation?

• Is there enough fire support ammunition to fire an effective preparation?

• Can the enemy recover before the effects can be exploited?

Determine when and how you will shift fires. Use one of the following methods:

• Time -at a predetermined time, fires will shift.

• Location -fires shift when the maneuver unit reaches a certain location, such as a
phase line.

• On call -the maneuver commander directs when the fires shift.

• Event -a predetermined event signals shifting of fires.

NOTE: Whatever method Is used, the commander, the platoon leaders, the FOs,
and the FDC must all know what method Is being used.

On the Objective

Consider planning -

• Fires to block enemy reinforcement and resupply by ground or air.

• Fires to suppress enemy direct fire weapons.

• Obscurants to screen friendly forces or obscure hostile ground observation when
consolidating on the objective.

• A signal for lifting and/or shifting fires.

• Fires as for the defense when consolidating on the objective.

Beyond the
Objective

Consider planning fires -

• To Impede enemy reinforcements.

• To block avenues of approach for counterattacking enemy forces.

• To slow or block enemy retreat.

2-9

FOCUS

On the Position

DEFENSIVE FIRE PLANNING

ACTIONS TO BE TAKEN

On avenues of approach -

• Target enemy avenues of approach.

• Integrate fire support with direct fire weapons.

• Plan trigger points for possible moving targets.

On key terrain -

• Place an observer on terrain where he can provide early warning, target location,
and laser designation and/or overwatch of the battle.

• Plan to obscure enemy observation of friendly movements.

On obstacles -

• Coordinate coverage of obstacles with the engineers.

• Consider the use of smoke or riot control agents to hinder breaching operations.

• If available and in conjunction with the engineer, plan FASCAM to reseed
minefields that the enemy has breached.

• Plan fires to close gaps and lanes In barrier or obstacle plans.

• Plan fires to help canalize the enemy.

• Integrate fire support with obstacles to complement direct fire weapons.

• Accurately locate obstacles and preplanned targets.

Consider -

• Using groups or series to assist In wlthdra\wal.

• Using smoke to facilitate disengagement.

• Planning fires on top of your battle position to help In the disengagement, to deny
the enemy access to the position, and to support a counterattack.

Plan FPFs (a prearranged barrier of Are designed to protect friendly troops). Use the
following sequence In planning FPFs; but remember, the maneuver commander
selects FPF locations.

• Select the fire support asset to fire the FPF. This selection Is based on allocations.

• Adjust fire onto the FPF to determine actual firing data to be used in firing the FPF.
(The tactical situation, time, or ammunition supply may not allow the FPF to be
adjusted.)

• Determine the FPF time of flight.

• Select the FPF trigger point (a permanent, visible point on terrain to the front
which Is used to determine when the FPF will be fired). Consider time of flight and
the estimated enemy rate of movement.

• Integrate the FPF Into the final protective lines of the company direct fire weapons.

• Determine how the FPF call for fire will be Initiated.

NOTE: The length of an FPF Is the number of
projectile bursting diameter. The sizes of the
shown below.

System Elements

60-mm mortar 2 tubes

81 -mm mortar 4 tubes

81 -mm mortar (Improved) 4 tubes

107-mm mortar 3 tubes

105-mm howitzer 3 guns

105-mm howitzer 0 guns

155-mm howitzer 4 guns

155-mm howitzer 6 guns

155-mm howitzer 0 guns

203-mm howitzer 4 guns

203-mm howitzer 8 guns

elements (tubes) multiplied by the
FPFs for various systems are as

70 by
140 by
140 by
120 by
105 by
210 by
200 by
300 by
400 by
320 by
640 by

of FPF

35 meters
35 meters
35 meters
40 meters
35 meters
35 meters
50 meters
50 meters
50 meters
r 80 meters
r 80 meters

2-10

FM 6-20-50

DEFENSIVE FIRE PLANNING (CONTINUED)

FOCUS

ACTIONS TO BE TAKEN

Behind the Position

Consider planning fires -

• To support alternate battle positions.

• To support a counterattack.

• To delay the enemy as the company withdraws.

• To prevent reinforcement by the enemy.

• To obscure enemy observation of friendly movements.

Target Acquisition Assets
in a Brigade

The FSO has at his disposal not only the
targeting assets of FA target acquisition systems
but also maneuver and military intelligence
(Ml) assets.

Field Artillery Systems

The direct support FA battalion in light
divisions has an organic AN/TPQ-36 radar.

The direct support FA battalion S2 has access
to information normally limited to Threat field
artillery assets.

Div arty may have aerial observers available.
Div arty may have COLTS available.

Forward observers are available.

Fire Support Cell Systems

At division level, the FS cell has access to
targeting information from the division G2 and
the all-source production section (ASPS).

One COLT is organic to each direct support FA
battalion and three are organic to headquarters
and headquarters battery (HHB), division
artillery. They may be allocated to the brigade
FSO to provide target acquisition critical to the
operation and beyond the capabilities of the
FIST. The maneuver brigade commander, in
coordination with the direct support FA battalion
commander, will retain positioning approval.

The battalion FSOs should provide targeting and
intelligence information from the maneuver
battalion S2 and TA assets not only to the
brigade FSO but also to the FIST and the FA
battalion.

Maneuver Systems

The brigade S2 can provide intelligence
information gained through maneuver and MI
channels.

Military Intelligence Systems

The division MI battalion (CEWI) commander
task-organizes his assets to provide intelligence
and EW support to committed maneuver
brigades.

The CEWI battalion commander may form
an lEW company team to control the
diverse MI assets, including assets not
directly supporting the brigade, deployed in
the brigade area of operations. There is no
standard structure for the company, and it
is assigned standard tactical missions.
Elements of the lEW company team may
include those discussed below.

Counterintelligence Team(s). This team identifies
hostile collection and rear battle threat;
determines the EEEI; nominates enemy TA
systems for suppression, neutralization, or
destruction; and maintains intelligence,
operations security (OPSEC), and deception
bases.

2-11

FM 6-20-50

Ground Surveillance Radar and Remotely
Employed Sensor Teams. These teams give the
brigade a highly mobile, near-all-weather,
24-hour capability for battlefield surveillance.
They may be employed on patrols and at
observation posts. Normally, most of the teams
provided to the brigade are attached to
subordinate battalions and may be deployed to
company level. A ground surveillance radar is
a better targeting asset when it is surveyed in.

Electronic Warfare Platoon. This platoon provides
voice communications intercept. It can
interface with the MI battalion tactical
operations center (TOC) and the lEWSE and
can scan and summarize voice interceptions.

Target List Work Sheet

The ESO records targets on DA Eorm 4655-R
(Target Eist Work Sheet). An example of this
work s heet and instr netions for its completion

Appendix E.I A rep roducible copy of

are m

this form is in i Appendix Ml . The essential data
recorded on this form are the target number,
target description, target location, and specific
guidance on the attack of the target. Specific
information in the remarks column may
include the following:

• Shell-fuze combinations (if other than high
explosive [HE]-point detonating [PD]).

Z Eire support system to engage the targets (if
other than EA).

Effects required by the commander.

• Duration of fires.

• Schedule into which the target is to be
included, such as a group or series.

Deliberate Fire Planning

Deliberate fire planning is conducted through a
formal top-down process, with bottom-up
refinement as time permits. However, deliberate

fire planning at all levels also begins immediately
upon receipt of the mission. Company and
battalion ESOs should not wait for a target list
from higher echelons before beginning their own
planning. For the maneuver brigade, the process
begins with the receipt of targeting information
from the division. The division G2, in
conjunction with the targeting officer of the
division main FSE, performs a detailed IPB and
target value analysis (TV A) for the entire
division area of operation. Named areas of
interest (NAIs) and target areas of interest
(TAIs) are included in the IPB for the brigade
S2. High-payoff targets for the division and
specific targets of interest and schedules of fire
come from the top down to the brigade FSE or
targeting officer. The brigade S2 and ESO must
refine this division guidance for the brigade area
and concept of operation.

Brigade is normally the lowest level at which
formal fire planning is done. The brigade ESO
receives from the division targets that are in
his zone and in the brigade area of interest
and that have been developed from the
division IPB and/or acquired by division TA
assets. The brigade ESO works with the
targeting team at brigade to develop targets
within his zone. The targeting team includes
the commander, S3, S2, lEWSE, targeting
officer, and engineer officer. The brigade ESO
adds division and brigade targets to his target
list work sheet, posts the targets on his overlay,
and passes those targets to subordinate
maneuver battalions and the DS artillery
battalion. He then receives target list
modifications from the battalion ESOs. Using
the target list work sheet and overlay, he
resolves duplications, prioritizes the list, and
sends it to the DS battalion and appropriate
agencies available to the maneuver brigade
commander for that operation. It is important
that the brigade ESO allow enough planning
time for subordinate headquarters and that he
establish a cutoff time for their submission of
modifications so that the plan can be
disseminated with adequate time for execution.

2-12

FM 6-20-50

The battalion FSO, in conjunction with the
commander, operations officer, and primary and
special staffs, is responsible for identifying the
fire support requirements of the battalion. He
receives targets from the brigade FSO, modifies
them as necessary, and adds targets of concern to
the battalion commander. Using the target list
work sheet and overlay as tools, he forwards his
list of targets to subordinate company FSOs.

The company FSO and company commander
plan targets to support the company scheme of
maneuver. From the battalion, the company FSO
receives targets that are within the company area
of interest. He modifies them as necessary and
adds any other targets according to the maneuver
commander’s priorities. Modifications and
additions are submitted through the battalion to
the brigade FSO for inclusion in the final
brigade target list and fire plan.

At the lowest level, the company FSO nominates
targets in his sector, records this target
information on the target list work sheet, and
forwards it to the battalion FSO. The battalion
FSO considers the target information he receives
from each of the company FSOs, consolidates it
(for example, eliminates duplications), adds
targets needed by the battalion, and forwards a
copy of the target list work sheet to the brigade
FSO. The brigade FSO receives target lists from
the battalion FSOs. Using a target overlay, he
resolves duplications, adds targets developed by
the brigade TA assets, prioritizes the list, and
sends it to the DS battalion. He informs the
battalion FSOs of any subsequent changes to the
plans. Once targets are received by battalion
and/or brigade FSOs, they prepare their fire
plans and schedules to support the maneuver
and allocate targets to the appropriate fire
support agency or asset.

Quick Fire Pianning

The purpose of quick fire planning is to quickly
prepare and execute fire support in anticipation
of an impending operation. The FSO must
ensure the DS battalion S3, FDC, and battalion

FS cells understand his quick fire plan and how
it is used. Quick fire planning techniques
constitute an informal fire plan. Quick fire
planning differs from deliberate fire planning in
that bottom-up, rather than top-down, fire
planning is conducted. In the quick fire plan,
the FSO is responsible for -

• Identifying targets to be engaged in the target
list.

Z Allocating all fire support assets available to
engage the targets in the plan.

Z Preparing the schedule of fires.

• Disseminating the schedule to all appropriate
fire support agencies for execution.

The following paragraphs delineate the quick
fire planning sequence.

Receive the operation order (OPORD).
(Understand what the commander wants!) Get
the following decisions from the commander:

Z Targets to be engaged.

• Desired effects on targets.

• Order and timing of target engagement.

• Duration of fires.

H-hour.

Z Priority of fires.

Z Priority for targeting.

Z Priority for execution.

• Time check from commander.

Z Estimated rate of movement.

• Need for target adjustment.

Concept of the operation to include -
o Objective and defensive positions.
oManeuver control measures.

o Obstacles.

2-13

FM 6-20-50

Find out what assets are available for the
operation. Concurrently, send a warning order
to all attack agencies. These include the FA
battalion S3, mortar platoon leader, ALO,
NGLO or SALT, and aviation liaison officer (if
any are applicable). An example warning order
is given below. Information to be obtained is as
follows:

^ From the direct support FA battalion - the
firing units that will be designated to fire in
the quick fire plan schedule.

Z From the maneuver commander-the
availability of the mortar platoon (company
FSO to battalion FSO for the 81 -mm mortars
if a company operation) for inclusion as a
firing unit in the schedule of fires.

Z From the FS cell -TACAIR mission
information. Coordinate CAS requirements

(for example, aircraft type, ordnance, time on
station, laser codes, and control procedures)
with the ALO.

ZFrom the firepower control team (FCT),
SALT, or NGLO - the availability of naval
aircraft and/or naval gunfire.

Plan targets in accordance with (lAW) the

scheme of maneuver, commander’s guidance,

and allocated assets. Include -

• Asset to be used.

• Munitions mix.

Z Shell-fuze combinations.

• Duration of fire for each target.

• Time to fire.

EXAMPLE QUICK FIRE PLAN

First transmission (warning order):

J3B THIS IS D7T, QUICK FIRE PLAN, OVER.
A2Y TO CONDUCT A HASTY ATTACK. OVER.
FIRE PLAN NICKNAME MARK.

TIMINGS FROM H MINUS 6 TO H PLUS 7.
H-HOUR 0525, OVER.

(If shell-fuze combination other than standard
Is needed, report as part of target list; for example.

30 ROUNDS HE VT, OVER.)

Second transmission (target Information):

J3B THIS IS D7T, TARGET LIST FOLLOWS:

(Read target Information from appropriate lines In
the quick fire plan.)

SAMPLE QUICK FIRE PLAN

QUICK FIRE PLAN

For uM of m« form, tm FM MEMO or FM MMDt tw propontM agino^ )• TTWOOC.

OAtCiNAron ^ MOOtriCAT'ONS B'' ^ ^ ^

I TARGET INFORMATION

TANOCT

OCACRIPTION

■ A

lOCATiON

ALTITUDE

REMAMKS

■30/

/2Z.7" w/P77^>

.30^

P02- ^JT£:

■3<0>

303

Rem> jwtT/oR^

30^

LEGEND:

0/C = on call pit = platoon

POL = petroleum, oil and lubricants WP = white phosphorus

2-14

FM 6-20-50

After receiving the commander’s approval,
disseminate the fire plan to attack systems,
higher headquarter FS cells, and those who will
implement the plan (FOS and subordinate FS
cells). Whenever possible, send DA Form
5368-R (Quick Fire Plan) to the FA battalion
CP and the mortar platoon
reproducible copy of this form is in

Ensure that the subordinate FSOs and/or FISTS
understand the fire plan. As a minimum cover -

• Positions or locations of FSOs and/or observers
during the conduct of the operation.

• Who is to initiate the fire plan or initiate the fire
request on specific on-call targets within the fire
plan. Include the agency to be contacted when
the target is to be initiated, and the
communications net to he used.

• Which unit has priority of fires or priority
targets, if applicable.

• The use of methods of control in modifying the

plan should it become necessary during the
execution of the plan.

• The agencies available when additional targets
of opportunity arise during the execution of the
plan.

NOTE: If time allows, a rehearsal should be
conducted to ensure comprehension of the plan.

Inform the commander when the fire support
plan is ready.

Review the fire support plan, and modify it as
necessary.

Fire Support Execution Matrix

The fire support execution matrix is a concise,
easy planning and execution tool which shows
the many factors of a complicated fire support
plan. This matrix may help the FSO and the
commander understand how the fire plan
supports the scheme of maneuver. It is a

valuable planning tool for both the offense and
the defense. It explains the aspects of the fire
support plan for which each FSO or FO is
responsible and the phase during the battle at
which these aspects apply. When approved, the
matrix becomes the primary execution tool.
The matrix is set up with the maneuver
elements shown along the left side and
different phases (phase lines, events, or times)
of the mission along the top. Phases used
should correspond to phases established on
maneuver execution matrixes.

Company-Level Matrix

At company level, information to go in each
box includes the following:

Z Priorities of indirect fire support to a platoon
indicated by an abbreviation of that fire support
asset will appear in the upper left corner of the
appropriate matrix hox.

Z The acronym FPF, preceded by the type of
indirect fire means responsible for firing that
FPF, will appear in the center of the hox.

Z Priority targets allocated to a platoon will appear
in the box as PRI TGT, preceded by the means
of fire support responsible for engaging the
target and followed by the target number.

Z If FIST elements are responsible for the
initiation of specific fires, the target number,
group, or series designation will be listed in the
box for that FIST element. Specific guidelines
concerning fires not included on the target list
work sheet will be included in that box.

Z Each fire support coordinating measure to be
placed in effect, followed by a word designated
for that measure, will be shown in the box. For
airspace coordination areas (AC As), the time
the planned CAS or attack helicopter are due
in place is listed.

^ Other factors that apply to a certain platoon
during a specific time frame maybe included in
the appropriate box. General guidance is issued
in the written portion of the OPORD.

leader. A
Appendix M.

2-15

EXAMPLE COMPANY FIRE SUPPORT EXECUTION MATRIX

The Illustration below shows an example of a On the objective, Series PIANO Is to be fired

completed fire support execution matrix for a by the artillery for 3d Platoon,

company deliberate attack. In the assembly

area (AA), a field artillery FPF Is allocated for The Illustration shows a way to label the fire

1st and 2d Platoons. 2d Platoon has priority support execution matrix for easy reference,

of mortar (mort) fires from the LD/LC to Phase Columns are Identified by letter, and lines are

Line (PL) WELLINGTON. From PL Identified by number. For example, the X Is

WELLINGTON to PL JACKIE, 1st Platoon has placed In block D2. This matrix reference

been allocated a mortar priority target system allows the FSO to easily disseminate

designated AB1212. 3d Platoon has been the original or updated matrix data by radio or

allocated an artillery priority target, AB1234. wire to all appropriate agencies.

SAMPLE COMPANY FIRE SUPPORT EXECUTION MATRIX

A 5 G- D

Battalion-Level Matrix

At battalion level, the matrix is used as

follows:

z If priority of any indirect fire support asset is
allocated to a team, it is indicated by an
abbreviation of that asset in the upper left
corner of the appropriate matrix hox.

^ If an FPF has been allocated, the acronym FPF,
preceded by the type of indirect fire means
responsible for firing that FPF, will appear in
the center of the box.

Z If a priority target is allocated to a team, it will
appear in the box as PRI TGT, preceded by the
means of fire support responsible for firing the
target. Once a target is determined as the
priority target the corresponding target number
is placed in the box.

Z If a certain company FSO is responsible for
initiating specific fires, the target number,
group, or series will be listed in the box for
that FSO. Specific guidelines concerning the
fires not included on the target list work
sheet will be included in the box.

Zif an ACA is to be put in effect by a
particular FSO, the acronym ACA, followed
by the code word designated for that ACA,
will be shown in the box. Also, the time the
planned CAS or attack helicopters are due in
the area (time on target [TOT]) is listed.

^ Other factors that apply to a certain team
during a specific time frame may also be
included in the appropriate box. General
guidance is issued in the written portion of
the OPORD.

2-16

FM 6-20-50

EXAMPLE BATTALION FIRE SUPPORT EXECUTION MATRIX

Shown below Is an example of a completed fire and Is responsible for firing priority target

support execution matrix for a deliberate attack, AC3003. Company A still has priority of Section

In the assembly area, field artillery FPFs are A mortars with a priority target, which has been

allocated to Companies A and C, while chosen to support the advance. Close air

Company B Is allocated an 81 -mm mortar FPF. support, under battalion control. Is due In the

Priorities of fire (POFs) are broken down with area at 0800. The battalion FSO will place ACA

Company B having priority of fires from Section ORANGE In effect before the aircraft assault on

B mortars; Company A, from Section A mortars; the target,

and Company C, out In front of the battalion

(bn), from the field artillery. When the lead element crosses PL RED,

Company A assumes priority of fires from
As the units depart the assembly area toward mortar sections, with each mortar section

the LD/LC, priority of FA fires Is picked up by responsible for a priority target. Company B

the battalion. Group A4C and Series JOE are assumes priority of fires from the FA and Is

Initiated by the battalion FSO In accordance responsible for firing Group A6C.

with the guidance of the battalion commander.

If communication with the FSO Is lost, unit SOP As the battalion crosses PL BLUE and begins

specifies that the lead company has the option Its final assault on the objective. Company A,

to Initiate these fires as It sees fit. The with priority of mortar fires. Initiates Series

allocation of priorities of fire from the mortar FINISH. The battalion FSO, with priority of FA

sections remains the same as In the assembly control, fires Groups A7C and A8C, designed to

area. Company C, which Is the lead team at suppress the objective,
this point, has been allocated an FA priority

target, designated AC3002. Companies A and B Phase Line GREEN Is the limit of advance;

have mortar priority targets from their however, at PL GREEN, priority of fires, FPFs,

respective sectors and have designated these snd the responsibility to Initiate certain fires
targets as shown In the matrix. have been allocated (as shown on the matrix)

to disrupt the enemy as he withdraws and to
As the battalion crosses the LD/LC, Company C protect the battalion In case of a

(still In the lead) assumes priority of FA fires counterattack.

SAMPLE BATTALION FIRE SUPPORT EXECUTION MATRIX

AA ^ pi

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Moer PFi fer
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Modi

POP

<il FPF

/^ORTBRJf

8 1 fP^

Moerd Pof=

flei TtT
At 3008

MOtr S

Ff^ PtF
ALC.

lOb PPF

Til
fie. 300 ^

FA P6F

FA Pill Ter

AL 3005

FA Pt>F
lOS FPF

c/)Nr/eoL

FA POP

FA PoF

seeies

~5o£

ACA

oumie

CAS

7Z)7 OSOO

FA Pt>F

A7L

Afit

A 6 CL- ^ P G-

2-17

FM 6-20-50

Fire Support Coordination

Fire support coordination is the continuous
process of implementing fire support planning
and managing the fire support assets that are
available to a maneuver force. The greatest fire
support plan in the world is worthless unless it is
properly coordinated with the appropriate
personnel and/or agencies. In short, coordination
makes the plan happen. Key personnel with
whom coordination must be effected are as
follows:

* Higher FSE.

Z Lower FSE.

ZChemical officer.

ZDirect support EA battalion TOC (usually done
at the brigade ES cell).

* Adjacent unit ES cells.

^Mortar platoon leader (battalion or company).
^Engineer platoon leader.

ZAir liaison officer.

* Naval gunfire liaison officer.

ZArmy aviation liaison officer.

^ Maneuver battalion S3 and S3 air.

ZAir defense representative.

* Military intelligence representative.

* Military police (MP) platoon leader.

Maneuver Commander Responsibilities

The maneuver commander sets the priorities
for positioning of units within his sector.
Normally, the FA battalion S3 and the brigade
S3 coordinate positioning of an FA unit.
However, the FSO may become involved by
helping the FA battalion S3, Coordination
should include -

* Locations of delivery units, radars, CPs, and
trains.

* Movement routes and times.

Supply routes.

Priorities of positioning are as follows:

Z Direct support FA battalion.

Z Reinforcing battalions.

• Divisional general support reinforcing (GSR)
and general support (GS) units.

• Corps units (GSR before GS).

Fire Support Officer Responsibilities

Specific FSO responsibilities for coordination

are as follows:

• Establish and maintain communications with
key personnel, to include adjacent units.

• Prepare and disseminate fire support
documents, records, and reports.

Z Execute the fire support plan.

Z Supervise the target acquisition effort of the ES
cell, and ensure that the S2 is aware of the
intelligence needs of the ES cell.

Z Keep higher and lower FS cells informed of
supported forces situation.

• Exchange battlefield information with the field
artillery and the supported force.

Z Task the most effective fire support means to
attack targets.

• Coordinate all fire support in the commander’s
zone or sector.

• Ensure the safeguarding of friendly elements.

Ensure continued flow of targeting information.

^ Anticipate changes dictated by the developing
battle, and recommend revision of the fire
support plan.

Z Direct the fire support attack of targets in the
priority establish by the commander.

Z Generate fire support missions against targets of
interest.

Z Override requests for fire, or direct that another
system provide the requested fire support as
necessary.

Coordinate with the ALO on use of TACAIR
assets.

2-18

FM 6-20-50

Clearance of Fires

The FSO at each echelon is vitally concerned
that all fire requests are quickly processed and
that all fires into his maneuver commander’s
zone are properly cleared.

Requests for Fire. Within brigades, requests for
fire are approved by the FSO at each echelon.
Usually, requests for FA fire are approved by the
task force (battalion) FSO. To expedite these
requests, silence by the monitoring FSO is
considered consent. This consent essentially
validates the use of the requested asset to engage
the particular target. For fires within the zone of
the requestor, no clearance or other coordination
is necessary.

Clearance. The maneuver commander has the
final authority to approve (clear) fires and their
effects within his zone. This is not the same as
approval of requests for fire support assets as
discussed above. Normally, a maneuver
commander delegates authority to coordinate
and clear fires within his zone (normally
delineated by boundaries) to his FSO. When
fires or their effects will fall outside the zone of
the requesting FSO, every effort must be made
to coordinate and clear those fires with the
commander and/or FSO who owns the zone.
This should be done by the most expeditious
means available. This coordination may be
between two adjacent company FSOs, or it may
be done by the battalion FSO. The spirit of this
coordination is to ensure that all fires out of
zone or across boundaries are properly cleared.
However, if no permissive coordinating measure
exists, the inability to effect coordination should
not prevent attack. This is especially tme when
friendly forces are under fire or when a
high-value target is of fleeting nature.

Fire Support Officer Considerations. The FSO must
consider the following key points with regard to
coordination:

• In whose zone the target is located.

• Whether the effects of chemical munitions, riot
control agents, illumination, and obscurants fired
in his zone will affect adjacent zones or airspace.

Z Whether coordination is re uired Whether
coordination beyond that o the requesting
agency coordinating with the maneuver
commander or S3 is necessary.

• That the battalion FSE coordinates all fires
within the company or battalion sectors and
initiates all coordination for fires outside the
battalion sector.

Z Which FSE is responsible for the maneuver
zone in which the target lies.

2 How he may contact them. What
communications networks and agencies are
available between the FSO initiating the
coordination and the FSO in whose zone the
target lies.

Required Actions. Upon receipt of the fire

request, the following actions take place:

Z The DS artillery battalion FDC immediately
begins the tactical processing during
coordination. The battery FDC begins technical
processing at the same time.

^ All FSEs monitor the fire request and plot the
target on the situation map.

Depending on the location of the tar et in
relation to the overall situation, the affected
FSEs coordinate with the other members of the
FS cell as appropriate.

^ If the target lies outside the requestor’s zone of
action or if it appears the fire mission may affect
the brigade operation, the battalion FSE
coordinates the request with the brigade FSE.

Z The brigade ESO coordinates with the
appropriate adjacent FSO if the target lies across
a brigade boundary.

Z The brigade FSE coordinates with the division
ES cell if the target lies beyond a division
boundary.

Z The approving authority in all situations is the
maneuver commander in whose zone the target
lies; authority is often delegated to the FSO.

Z Battalion FSEs on or near brigade or division
boundaries should exchange frequencies and call
signs to expedite fire support coordination across
the boundary.

2-19

FM 6-20-50

EXAMPLES OF FIRE SUPPORT COORDINATION

Example 1. Request for fire by B/1-40 Infantry
(Inf) on Target AC0006 (monitored by 1-40 Inf
FSO).

• In whose zone is the target? A/1-40 Inf.

• Is coordination necessary? Yes: through the
battalion FSO.

• Which FSE is responsible for the zone in
which the target lies? 1-40 Inf FSE.

Example 2. Request for fire by B/1-40 Inf on
Target AC0001 (monitored by 1-40 Inf FSO).

* In whose zone is the target? 1st Brigade
(Bde).

• Is coordination necessary? Yes, because It is
outside the zone of the requesting agency
(B/1-40 Inf FIST).

* Which FSE Is responsible for the zone in
which the target lies? 1st Bde FSE.

• How may the 1-40 Inf FSO contact the
brigade FSE? Options are as follows:

o 1-40 Inf FSO calls 1st Bde FSO on the brigade
Are support net.

oi-40 Inf FSO calls 1st Bde FSO on the direct
support FA battalion fire net.

Example 3. Request for fire by B/1-40 Inf on
Target AC0002 (monitored by 1-40 Inf FSO).

• In whose zone is the target? 2d Bde.

• Is coordination necessary? Yes, because It is
outside the zone of the requesting agency
(B/1-40 Inf).

• Which FSE Is responsible for the zone In
which the target lies? 2d Bde FSE.

• How may the 1-40 Inf FSO contact the
brigade FSE? Options are as follows.

o 1-40 Inf FSO calls the 2d Bde FSO direct on the
2d Bde fire support net (If he has the
frequencies and call signs) (preferred method).

o 1-40 Inf FSO calls the 1st Bde FSO on the 1st
Bde fire support net. The 1 st Bde FSO contacts
the 2d Bde FSO by-

- Calling the 1st Bde FSE on the 2d Inf Dtv fire
support net.

- Calling the 2d Inf DIv tactical FSE, who In turn
contacts the 2d Bde FSE.

0 1-40 Inf FSO calls 2d Bde FSO by going
through the direct support FA battalion fire net,
through 2d Inf DIv Arty to the 2d Bde direct
support FA battalion, who contacts the 2d Bde
FSO.

Example 4. Request for fire by B/1-40 Inf on
Target AC0003 (monitored by 1-40 Inf FSO).

• In whose zone is the target? 2d Inf DIv.

• Is coordination necessary? Yes, because It Is
outside the zone of the requesting agency
(B/1-40 Inf).

• Which FSE is responsible for the zone in
which the target lies? 2d Inf DIv tactical FSE.

• How may the 1-40 Inf FSO contact the 2d Inf
DIv tactical FSE? Options are a follows:

oi-40 Inf FSO calls the 2d Inf Dtv tactical FSE
(preferred method).

o 1-40 Inf FSO calls the 1st Bde FSO on the 1st
Bde fire support net. The 1 st Bde FSO contacts
the 2d Inf DIv tactical FSE by-

- Calling the 2d Inf DIv tactical FSE direct on
the 2d Inf DIv fire support net (if the FSO has
the frequencies and call signs).

- Calling the adjacent FSO in the 2d Inf DIv
zone, who calls the 2d Inf DIv tactical FSE (If
the FSO has the frequencies and call signs).

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FM 6-20-50

EXAMPLES OF FIRE SUPPORT COORDINATION (CONTINUED)

Example 5. Request for fire by B/1-40 Inf on

Target AC0004 (monitored by 1-40 Inf FSO).

• In whose zone is the target? 5th Corps.

• Is coordination necessary? Yes, because It Is
outside the zone of the requesting agency
(B/1-40 Inf FIST).

• Which FSE is responsible for the zone in
which the target lies? 5th Corps FSE.

• How may the 1-40 Inf FSO contact the 5th
Corps tactical FSE? Options are as follows:

o 1 -40 Inf FSO calls the 5th Corps tactical FSE
direct (preferred method).

o 1-40 Inf FSO calls the 1st Bde FSO on the 1st
Bde fire support net. The 1 st Bde FSO contacts
the 2d Inf DIv tactical FSE by-

- Calling the 2d Inf DIv tactical FSE direct on
the 2d Inf DIv fire support net (if the FSO has
the frequencies and call signs).

- Calling the adjacent FSO in the 2d Inf DIv
zone, who calls the 2d Inf DIv tactical FSE (If
the FSO has the frequencies and call signs).

SAMPLE SITUATION

Brigade Fire Support
Coordination Checklist

The brigade FSO must coordinate with the
personnel as indicated in the table below.
Also, during the operation, the FSO must -

Z Implement on-order fire support coordinating
measures.

Z Monitor the status of the maneuver battalions.
Be prepared to shift priorities of fire and/or to
request additional support from division.

Z Ensure a timely flow of targeting and hattlefield
information to battalion FS cells and the DS
battalion.

Z Prepare for contingency operations.

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FM 6-20-50

COORDINATION REQUIRED BY THE BRIGADE FIRE SUPPORT OFFICER

POINT OF
CORDINATION

ACTION TAKEN

Brigade
Commander
and S3

Determine -

• Mission.

• Scheme of maneuver,

• Commander's Intent.

• Zone of action.

• Future plans.

• Which organizations have priorities of fire and when.

• Established maneuver control measures.

• Xvallablllty of fire support assets.

Recommend -

• Capabilities and limitations of fire support for the operation (can support versus
cannot support the course of action).

• Fire support required beyond that currently available to the brigade.

• Placement of observers forward In the area considered to be most active, on key
terrain, and on avenues of approach. Consider employing observers with scouts
and reconnaissance elements.

• Preparation fires. Are they necessary or desired for the operation? Will series and
groups do the job?

• Fire support coordinating measures.

Brigade S2 and

Targeting

Officer

Determine the following from the IPB:

• Enemy order of battle,

• Known and suspected enemy locations.

• Size, type, and strength of enemy force expected to be encountered.

• Terrain analysis of mobility corridors.

• Friendly reconnaissance and patrol activity.

• All target acquisition and surveillance plans (organic and attached).
Provide -

• Status of observers, COLTs, AN/TPQ-36 radars, and attached TA assets.

• List of priority targets.

Division FS Cell

Determine -

• FA assets available and tactical missions.

• CAS allocations.

• Division-level fire support coordinating measures likely to be in effect.
Request additional assets as necessary to support the operation.

Provide brigade-level fire support coordinating measures likely to be In effect.

Direct Support
Battalion S3

Determine -

• Locations of units.

• Proposed locations.

• Ammunition status.

• FA commander’s Intent for support of the plan.

• Unit weapons status.

Provide a thorough briefing on the operation to allow adequate planning.

Battalion FSOs

Determine -

• Final protective fires. Request additional support as necessary.

• Fire support coordinating measures to recommend.

• Alternate radio nets to be used In case of jamming.

• Fires requiring positive control. Normally, these Include Illumination, smoke, FPFs,
CAS, and priority targets. Know who has control, the conditions under which the
fires are employ^, and how they are to be controlled.

Provide the target list, fire support execution matrix, and schedules that support the
operation.

2-22

FM 6-20-50

Split Command
Post Operations

Brigade and battalion commanders each will
establish a tactical (tac) command post during
critical and fluid periods of combat operations to
facilitate command and control of subordinate
units, The organization and equipment may vary
according to the commander’s analysis. Usually,
the tactical CP consists of the commander, S3,
S2, FSO, and ALO. Other members of the staff
or FS cell may be included according to the
criticality of their areas; for example, the
engineer should be present if obstacles are a
critical part of the current operation. The DS
battalion commander (FSCOORD) may be
present at the brigade tactical CP for limited
periods. He advises the commander, anticipates
required movement of supporting artillery units,
and directs execution of other fire support tasks.
The tactical CP should include only the
minimum number of personnel and amount of
equipment necessary to control the battle. The
FSO is responsible for keeping other fire support
representatives informed of planned operations.

Planning Considerations

Each type of tactical CP at brigade and battalion
is discussed separately with regard to personnel,
equipment, and command, control, and
communications (C3). The techniques described
serve as examples and as a basis for establishing
internal procedures. At times, the commander
may have to make allowances to facilitate
coordination of fires. He must be kept informed
of the FSO's capability to influence the delivery
and coordination of supporting fires. The timely
employment of fire support will often determine
the outcome of maneuver engagements and will
often be controlled from the tactical CP by the
FSCOORD and/or FSO.

Command, Control, and Communications

Communications must be maintained with
subordinate and higher FSOs (includes the
division FS cell for the brigade FSO) and

supporting artillery units to provide adequate
support to the maneuver operation. A stationary
tactical CP should be positioned to enhance
communications between higher and lower units.
This facilitates command and control (C2) of
maneuver and combat support systems. The
requirements for adequate fire support
communications must always be a consideration
for establishing a ground-based tactical CP. The
FSO must ensure that his communications
package is adequate. He must be aggressive in
establishing and maintaining fire support
communications for the tactical CP operations.

Main Command Post
Fire Support Cell Operations

The responsibilities of the FS cell during split CP
operations are very similar at brigade and
battalion. The FS cell helps the FSO maintain
control and coordination of the maneuver unit
fire support. It relays, takes messages, performs
retransmission (retrans), does limited planning
and coordination for current and future
operations, and does any other assigned and
implied tasks. In the absence of communications
with the FSO, the FS cell is responsible for all
FSO functions.

Brigade Tactical
Command Post Operations

Brigade Aerial Tactical Command Post. Usually, this
CP operates from an OH-58 helicopter and
consists of the maneuver commander and other
staff members as directed. The FSCOORD or
FSO should be included in the aerial tactical CP.
Use of this type of CT is most likely when two
or more battalions are conducting air assault
operations.

The brigade FSO must ensure enough radios are
available for his use, whether they are installed in
the aircraft or man-portable. Consider placing
the ground-based ALO, subordinate FSOs, and
other delivery system representatives on one
centralized net, usually the brigade FS net. Some
aircraft (UH-60 equipped for C3) may be

2-23

FM 6-20-50

equipped with high frequency (HF) radios for
control of Air Force and naval assets. Consider
using the brigade FSE as a relay-retrans to the
division FS cell.

The aerial tactical CP enhances C3 of
maneuver and fire support. The use of aerial
tactical CPS will normally be of limited
duration. It involves higher risks, depending on
the status of the Threat air defenses. The
brigade FSO should expect the commander to
direct attack of specific targets, and he must
be prepared to coordinate those requests.

Stationary and/or Mobile Brigade Tactical
Command Post. Usually, this CP is configured
according to SOP and the commander’s
guidance. It should always include at least the
FSCOORD or FSO during critical
engagements when the brigade commander is
actively engaged in the command and control
of more than one battalion.

The brigade FSO must be prepared to improvise
and make use of all available radios. A
man-portable radio configured for backpack
mode should always be carried for use as a
primary or an alternate means of
communication. Additional FM radios available
to the FSO could include the radios of the
commander or S3. The ALO’s FM radio may be
available. Availability of digital communications
equipment may require minor installation
modification to one of the brigade tactical CP
vehicles. Use of radio remote devices, long-range
antennas, and HF radios in the voice mode
should be eonsidered as appropriate. Use of the
HF radios at the TACP and radio teletypewriter
(RATT) or mobile subscriber equipment (MSB)
nodes throughout the division gives the brigade
FSO a long-range, unseeured eommunieations
capability.

Security must be a concern and planned for
accordingly. Fire plans for local security should
be planned briefed, and disseminated as with
any other maneuver position. Long-range
antennas and high-power radio settings should
be used only when needed.

Foot-Mobile Brigade Tactical Command Post. This
type of CP is not likely except during
brigade-level air assault, lodgment, and
amphibious operations. See the battalion tactical
CP operations for considerations.

Battalion Tactical
Command Post Operations

Battalion Aerial Tactical Command Post. This CP
usually operates from an OH-58 helieopter and
eonsists of the maneuver eommander and other
staff members as direeted. Normally, it will be
available when two or more companies are
conducting air assault operations.

The battalion FSO must ensure enough radios
are available for his use, whether installed in
aircraft or man-portable. Consider placing the
ground-based ALO, subordinate FSOs, and
other delivery system representatives on one
centralized net. Some aircraft (UH-60 equipped
for C3) may be equipped with HF radios for
eontrol of Air Foree and naval assets. Consider
using the battalion FS eell as a relay-retrans to
the brigade FSO.

Other considerations are similar to those in
employing an aerial tactical CP at brigade level.

Stationary and/or Mobile Battalion Tactical Command
Post. This CP usually is configured according to
SOP and the eommander’ s guidanee. It should
always include the battalion FSO. The other staff
personnel present will be identified by the
battalion eommander. The battalion taetieal CP
may have two or three vehicles.

Considerations for communications are similar to
those of the brigade FSO. The FM radios
available to the battalion FSO, other than his
man-portable radio, may include the ALO’s FM
radio. Availability of digital communications
equipment may require minor installation
modifieation to one of the taetieal CP vehicles.
Use of radio-remote devices, long-range
antennas, and HF radios in the voice mode
should be eonsidered as appropriate. Use of the
HF radios with the battalion ALO should also
be considered for possible long-range, unsecured

2-24

FM 6-20-50

communications capability. In defensive
operations, the tactical CP should be dug in with
overhead cover when possible. This will require
remoting and digging in the wire.

The battalion CP will be mueh lighter than the
brigade tactical CP and will be a greater security
risk because of nearness to the PLOT.

Foot-Mobile Battalion Tactical Command Post. This
CP is usually configured with the same personnel
as the stationary tactical CP. It is used extensively
during movements to eontaet, infiltrations, and
landing zone (LZ) operations. It is the most
difficult configuration for conducting fire support
operations.

The primary means of eommunieation will be a
man-portable FM radio. The ALO should have a
man-portable AM radio, which has a greater

range than FM radios in most circumstances.
The FS cell and the brigade FSO will have a
mueh greater role under walking CP eonditions
because of the battalion FSO’s limited radio
range. The battalion FSO must be prepared to
elear fire tasks with assistanee from the FS eell.
The FSO’s communications requirements should
be considered when selecting the route of
movement during dismounted operations. Use of
retrans during offensive operations will probably
be required to enable the FIST or FO to
effectively adjust artillery and mortar fires.

The security risks for dismounted battalion
tactical CP operations are more
situation-dependent than for other operations.
Constant movement reduces the chance of being
located, but it increases the chance of walking
into an ambush or a prepared enemy position.

2-25

CHAPTER 3

FM 6-20-50

THE "HOW" OF FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING

Section I. INTRODUCTION

General

The goal of fire support planning is to
know the maneuver commander’s guidance,
intent, and scheme of maneuver and to
coordinate fire support assets to support
the operation. This chapter offers
considerations to use during the planning of
offensive and defensive operations. It does
not address commander’s intent or
METT-T. Therefore, each FSO, company
through brigade, must add those two items
to the considerations to adequately plan
and coordinate fire support for an
operation. The product of fire support
planning is the fire support plan, a key
component of the commander’s operation
plan. The plan must be simple, flexible, and
descriptive; it must complement the scheme
of maneuver. Light infantry tactics are
considerably different from mechanized

tactics, and unique terms are used.
Therefore, it is imperative that the FSO
read, know, and understand all of FM
71-101 and FM 7-72.

Maneuver Tactics and Fire Support

The effectiveness of the total fire support
system depends on the successful performance
of the four basic tasks of fire support:

• Support forces in contact.

Z Support the battle plan.

Z Synchronize the fire support system.

• Sustain the fire support system.

NOTE: For an expanded discussion of these
tasks, see FM 6-20, Chapter 3.

Section II. FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING FOR THE OFFENSE

Purpose of Offensive Operations

The primary purpose of an offensive operation
is to destroy the enemy. This is done by
breaking through his defensive system and
driving rapidly and violently into his rear to
destroy artillery, air defenses, command posts,
logistical support, and his command and
control system. FMs 7-20, 7-30, 71-101 and
100-5 describe in detail the purposes,
fundamentals, and types of offensive
operations. Other purposes of the offense are
as follows:

• Secure key terrain.

• Gain information on enemy strength.

Z Deceive and divert the enemy.

• Deprive the enemy of resources.

Z Hold the enemy in position to keep him from
concentrating.

Types of Offensive Operations

There are five basic types of offensive
operations to be provided fire support:

Z Movement to contact.

• Hasty attack.

3-1

FM 6-20-50

Z Deliberate attack (to include the forward
passage of lines).

Z Exploitation.

Z Pursuit.

The support for each of these types is discussed

in detail later in this chapter.

The following fire support tasks are per-
formed in support of all types of offensive

operations:

• Locate targets.

• Help integrate all available fire support
assets.

Z Provide conventional, chemical, and
nuclear fires at the desired times and
places. (The brigade FSO will inform the
FS cell of the current FLOT and radiation
exposure state [RES] category to expedite
the employment of a division nuclear
subpackage to support brigade
operations.)

Z Destroy, suppress, and/or neutralize enemy
direct and indirect fire weapons.

• Provide illumination and smoke or
obscurants.

Z Provide fires in support of joint air attack
team (JAAT) operations.

• Suppress or destroy enemy air defenses,
command and control, and logistics
facilities.

Z Deliver scatterable mines.

• Prepare for support of future operations.

Movement to Contact

Description

The movement to contact is conducted by
maneuver forces to gain or reestablish contact
with the enemy. It may be used in any combat
situation where the initiative is not clearly in
the grasp of either opponent or where the
enemy has broken contact.

A movement to contact is characterized by
rapid movement decentralized control, and the
hasty deployment of combined arms formations
from the march - to attack or to defend. The
movement should result in a meeting
engagement. Target acquisition and intelligence
means strive to discover the enemy’s
formations and facilities well before the lead
elements of the friendly force reach him.

One of the primary tasks for a FSCOORD is to
predict likely enemy locations and to plan on-call
fires accordingly. Fire support units must be
prepared to react quickly when needed.

Supported forces move aggressively toward the
enemy but are not sure exactly where or when
they will fight. A friendly force moves with the
smallest practicable element forward. A
reinforced battalion- size force might lead a
division; whereas, a company or troop could
lead a brigade. Forward elements advance
along concealed routes covered by an
overwatch element positioned to support by
fire. The supported commander decentralizes
control to leaders to the front and to the
flanks. He retains the bulk of his combat
power to permit flexible response once contact
is made. The most pressing demand on fire
support is responsive fires when called for.

FSCOORD Activities

FSCOORD activities to support a movement
to contact at company, battalion and brigade
levels are shown in the following table.

3-2

FSCOORD ACTIVITIES IN A MOVEMENT TO CONTACT

COMPANY

As the company FSCOORD, the
company FSO advises the
company commander on fire
support and manages available fire
support. This usually consists of
mortars and field artillery, but It
may Include naval gunfire and air
support (Army aviation and
TACAIR).

The FIST headquarters locates with
company headquarters.

The FO parties deploy with
supported platoons of the company.

The company FSO works under
the Immediate supervision of the
FSO at the maneuver battalion
headquarters.

If FO parties are unavailable, the
company FSO keeps key platoon
personn^ informed of the fire
support situation and how to obtain
fire support. He helps platoon
personnel request and adjust fire
support.

The company FSO plans on-call
fires on the basis of the company
battle plan and known enemy
tactics.

He ensures the adequacy of on-call
fires and eliminates unnecessary
duplication of fire support.

He keeps the battalion FSO and
the supporting field artillery
Informed of company fire support
needs.

He provides emergency control of
CAS assets In the absence of
qualified Air Force personnel (ALO,
ETAC, or AFAC).

BATTALION

As the maneuver battalion
FSCOORD, the battalion FSO
advises the battalion commander
and staff on fire support matters artd
manages these assets for the
battalion. He supervises the battalion
FS cell.

Air support and 81 -mm mortar fires
usually are avalable In addition to
60-mm mortar fire support common
to companies. Naval support may
also be available.

The main fire support effort Is
concerned with augmenting the fires
planned for the companies.

The battalion FSO supervises the fire
support activities of FISTs with the
companies of the battalion.

He develops the fire support portion
of battle plans based on guidance
from the supported commander.

He recommends positions fa FA
target acquisition means. Primary
enemy targets are direct and Indirect
Are weapons, observers, and
command and control facilities.

On-call fires are planned on likely
enemy locations (on the basis of
known enemy tactics). As the face
advances, outdated on-call targets
are replaced with new ones.

Fire support coordinating measures
are recommended as needed.

The battaibn FSO keeps the FSO at
brigade headquarters Infamed of the
fire support situation.

He provWes fire support guidance to
liaison representatives from aher fire
support means.

BRIGADE

As the primary representative of the
brigade FSCOORD, the brigade FSO
advises the brigade commander and
staff on fire support matters and
manages the available fire support
assets. These assets usually Include
FA Indirect fire weapons and air
support, but they may also Include
naval gunfire support.

The brigade FSO establishes the FS
cell at the brigade headquarters and
advises liaison personnel thae on
fire support.

He supervises the fire support
activities of the FSOs with
subordinate maneuver battalion
headquarters.

He helps develop brigade battle
plans and prepares the fire support
portions of these plans.

He recommends posittans for FA
target acquisition means to the DS
battalion S3. Primary targets are the
same as those for the battaibn FSO
plus deeper target areas.

On-call fires are planned as likely
enemy locations. As the force
advances, outdated on-call targets
are replaced with new ones.

The brigade FSO ensures that FO
shortfalls fa lead elements are filled;
he requests help from the DS
battalion S3, as needed.

Fire support coordinating measures
are recommerbed, established, and
reestablished, as needed.

The brigade FSO keeps the division
main FS cell and the parent FA
battaibn FDC Informed of the fire
support situatbn of the brigade.

3-3

FM 6-20-50

Fire Support Planning

The movement to contact is a fluid situation in
which supported elements try to locate the
enemy. Initially, top-down fire planning will be
used if time permits. Targeting for fire support
usually is based on predicted enemy locations
(targets). Past enemy tactics under similar

conditions and the terrain influence this
targeting effort. On-call fires are planned to
meet possible contingencies. As the advance
continues, plans at brigade are updated. Fire
support planning at the two levels normally
executing the movement to contact when
planning time is limited is shown below.

FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING IN A MOVEMENT TO CONTACT

COMPANY

On the basis of guidance from the company commander
and the supervising FSO, the company FSO plans
on-call fires to support the company once contact Is
made.

Most targets are on likely enemy locations (predicted
targets) and are based on pest enemy tactics and the
terrain.

Target acquisition means available to the company FSO
are oriented on the most critical areas of advance.

Usually, fire planning Is Informal -quick (hasty)
procedures and formats are used.

NOTE: Informal Are planning Is a dynamic process
that responds to the Immediate problems on the
battlefield. Generally, It flows from lower to higher
echelons and Is done prImarHy at the maneuver
company and battalion. Informal planning is a
product of the situation and the time available at
the echelon for which It is devised. Because It Is a
spontaneous process tied to the Immediate needs
of the force. Informal planning normally Is done
verbally.

The fire support weapons normally considered are
mortars arid field artllery. These may be augmented by
naval gunfire and air support.

Every effort is made to ensure the responsiveness of
planned fire support.

The company FSO gives fire planning guidance to the
forward observers, If avalaWe.

The company FSO plans fires on targets sent down by
the battalion FSO. He requests augmenting fires from the
battalion FSO, when needed.

Most of the on-call fires are devoted to suppression,
obscuration, artd screening.

All fire planning stresses response of weapon systems so
that, when called for, fires are almost immediately
avalable.

BATTALION

The battalion FSO supervises the fire planning actions cf
the FISTs with supported companies. He advises on fire
support characteristics.

He augments the fires planned by the FISTs and
eliminates duplications.

He plans fires on targets sent down from higher
headquarters and Incorporates targets requested by the
nSTs.

NOTE: At this level, fire plans are normally
Informal. See the previous note pertaining to
Informal fire planning.

If additional fire support is needed, the FSO requests It
from the brigade F^,

The battalion FSO keeps liaison personnel from other fire
support agencies at the FS cell Informed of the need fa
their fires and of changes to existing planned fires.

He also Informs the supporting FA and mortar FDCs of
changes In fire plans.

FM 6-20-50

Positioning of
Fire Support Assets

Success in fire support operations requires
the proper positioning of contributing
assets, such as weapons and target
acquisition means. Some of the positioning
considerations are shown below.

Fire Support Coordinating Measures

The most commonly used fire support
eoordinating measure in a movement to eontaet
is the coordinated fire line (CFL). Because of
the fluidity of the enemy situation the CFL is
moved forward, keeping with the advance of the
supported maneuver element. The fire support
coordinating measures at each level are discussed
below.

POSITIONING OF FIRE SUPPORT ASSETS IN A MOVEMENT TO CONTACT

COMPANY

BATTALION

BRIGADE

The company FSO may recommend
the positioning of company mortars
and may request positioning of
supporting nxxtars and field artllery.
Most often, positioning Is Influenced
by the targets he presents to the
FDC.

Target acquisition means (FOs and
other) are positioned to best cover
critical areas and to avoid deed
spots In the coverage.

Usually, weapons are positioned well
forward to exploit their ranges and to
ensure that continuous support wll
be avalable once the contact is
made.

The battalion FSO evaluates
positioning requests from company
FSOs, recommends positioning of
battaibn mortars to the battalion
commander, and requests
positioning of the field artllery from
the brigade FSO

He may be concerned with positions
for NGF ships.

Recommended positions for FA
radars In the area may be needed.
Coverage should favor the lead
elements of the maneuver battalion.

When avalable, aerial observers may
be used to extend the depth of
ground observation.

The brigade FSO Is continuously
aware d the current positbns of fleW
artillery and NGF ships supporting
the brigade. He Influertces future
positions \Mten possible.

Until contact Is made, weapons and
supporting target acquisittan means
are deployed well forward.

Air support aircraft may be requested
to be on ground alert to enhance
responsiveness.

The brigade FSO keeps the field
artillery FDC and other Are support
representatives Informed of
positioning concerns.

FIRE SUPPORT COORDINATING MEASURES IN A MOVEMENT TO CONTACT

COMPANY

BATTALION

BRIGADE

Usually, the company FSO does not
establish fire support coordinating
trteasuree. However, he must adhere
to those established by higher
headquarters. If the sftiiatbn
develops faster then antblpated, the
lead company FSO may have to
request the shifting of the CFL

Measures are posted to appropriate
maps and overlays to ensure that
fires adhere to them.

The FO parties and key platoon
personn^ must be Informed of
locations of current measures and
any changes as they occur.

The battaibn FSO keeps subordinate
RSTs. supporting FDCs, and the
brigade FSO Informed of changes to
Are support coordinating measures.

All measures In effect are posted to
maps and overlays.

A leading battalion may establish the
CFL for the parent brl^de. The FSO
must recommend locations for the
CFL and advise the commander
when It shoub be displaced.

As the task force (TF) advances, the
C^ Is moved accordingly. New
locations are disseminated.

The brigade FSO ensures that
measures In eftect are posted to
maps, charts, and overlays.

He ensures that existing measures
and any changes are disseminated
to appropriate FDCs and FSOs.

3-5

FM 6-20-50

Fire Support Considerations

Immediately responsive fires are provided
initially to the lead element and then to the
lead eompany as eontaet develops. Responsive
fires are provided by -

• Assignment of priorities of fire.

• Allocation of priority targets to the company or
team performing a mission requiring
responsiveness.

• Responsive repositioning of firing batteries by
the artillery S3 as the movement to contact
progresses.

• Effective positioning by FOs and/or COLTS.

• Integration of additional assets, such as
the immediate response of mortars upon
contact with the enemy.

Responsive fires are also enhanced by
effective assignment of forward observers to
the available communications nets. Assignment
can give specific observers priority of response.
The quick fire net and the exclusive net are
options. They do not prevent the firing unit
from answering calls for fire from other than
the specific observer.

• A quick fire net (voice) authorizes a direct
association of an observer with a selected
weapon system (normally field artillery).
Although the designated observer is not the
only observer on the net, he has the highest
priority for calls for fire. In a voice net, the
net control station (NCS) (normally the
FDC) will restrict all other net traffic
immediately upon receiving a request for fire
from the priority observer. In a quick fire net
(digital), the designated observer may be
given priority in the tactical fire direction
system (TACFIRE) or the observer may be
allowed to communicate directly with a
designated battery computer system (BCS).
(See TC 6-40A.)

NOTE: In either digital case, the operators must
diligently and continuously review input queues
to ensure Immediate actioning of the priority call
for fire.

• An exclusive net is a fire direction net
designated (as a field expedient) to be used
for a limited period of time solely by the
observer and the appropriate FDC. No other
subscriber will enter the net except in an
emergency. This procedure will be used only
for special situations. The commander,
considering the factors of METT-T, must
determine that absolute responsiveness to a
specific unit is mandatory. This procedure
requires frequencies and radio equipment
that normally are not readily available.
Therefore, the FDC may switch from a net it
normally monitors to the exclusive net; but it
will always monitor its fire direction net.

On the basis of the commander’s guidance,
TACAIR and massed fires are scheduled on
deep targets. Fires are planned on and around
reserves and logistics sites to hinder their
movement onto the battlefield. Fires are
planned on flanks to protect the flanks and to
reduce the number of maneuver forces
committed to the flanks.

Fires are planned on the terrain to be traversed.
As maneuver forces move, immediate
suppression missions are fired to help the
maneuver force get within range of the enemy
direct fire weapon systems. Immediate smoke is
fired to obscure OPS, screen friendly movement
and help maneuver forces breach obstacles.
COLTS may be positioned forward near the
advance guard in an overwatch position to
provide responsive fires when contact is made.
Once contact is made with the enemy, the FSO
must be prepared for either a hasty attack or a
defense.

Coordinated fire lines are placed well forward
of friendly maneuver forces. On-order CFLs

3-6

FM 6-20-50

are planned on phase lines so the CFLs can be
lifted and shifted quickly.

Hasty Attack

Description

The hasty attack is launched with minimum
advanced planning. The main goal of a hasty
attack is to seize the initiative. It is usually
conducted following a movement to contact,
during a counterattack, or when unexpected
enemy contact is made. The commander
attacks quickly from his existing dispositions to
gain the upper hand or to keep the enemy
from organizing resistance. Planning is normally
extremely limited. The principles of the
attack - concentration of effort, surprise, speed,
and flexibility - apply to the hasty attack. The
need for rapid, decisive action results in a need
for simpler schemes and a greater reliance on
SOPs and independent execution. The
FSCOORDs must be prepared to ensure rapid
reaction of the fire support system.

Once enemy contact has been made during the
movement to contact, supported maneuver
commanders deploy and attack from the
march. They coordinate their maneuver and
supporting means in an attempt to fight
through and continue the advance. The
FSCOORD participates in this coordination.

The hasty attack is a difficult operation. It tries
to maintain the momentum of the force. It
seeks to fix the enemy’s forward elements in
place with firepower, to find gaps and/or weak
spots or open flanks, and to move quickly
through. Speed is essential. Fire support plays
a key role. Often, it allows supported
commanders to bring down massed fires in
selected areas and to quickly shift these fires
throughout their sectors.

FSCOORD Activities

FSCOORD activities to support a hasty
attack at company, battalion, and brigade
levels are shown below.

FSCOORD ACTIVITIES IN A HASTY ATTACK

COMPANY

BATTALION

BRIGADE

The company FSO's primary
concern Is that fire support Is
responsive.

Suspect enemy locations are
targeted.

Enemy direct and Indirect fire means
must be suppressed.

A hasty fire plan must be prepared
and executed.

Speed of the attack offsets complete
preparation.

Friendly forces must be screened
from hostile ground observation.

Some deeper fires are needed to
dose off the Immediate battle area to
enemy reinfacements and/or
resup^les.

The battalion FSO must help the
supported commander as he
war-games for the hasty attack.

He ensures the proper Integratton of
fire support In the battle plan.

He ensures that the fire support
planned by the company FSOs Is
adequate; he adds targets as
required.

He ellmiretes duplicate targets and
Informs those concerned.

He assigns targets to appropriate fire
support means (FA mortars, and so
forth).

He develops the maneuver battalion
fire support plan for the hasty attack,
Incorporating targets submitted In the
company FSOs' fire plans. He sends
the plan to concerned agencies.

The brigade FSO Is concerned with
fires to augment those planned at
lower echelons and with fires
requested by higher levels.

He recommends fire support
coordinating measures.

He prepares the fire support plan for
the brigade.

He provides guidance to liaison
representatives from other fire
support agencies.

3-7

FM 6-20-50

Fire Support Planning

Fire support planning time for the FS COORD
to prepare for the hasty attack is very limited.
He must capitalize on existing fire plans,
adding targets as necessary. The commander’s
priorities may change for both the targets and
the firing means. Fire support planning

involvement of the FSCOORD at each level of
concern is discussed below.

Positioning of Fire Support Assets

Positioning concerns for fire support assets are
discussed below.

FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING IN A HASTY ATTACK

COMPANY

BATTALION

BRIGADE

The company FSO helps the
company commander develop the
company attack plan. He
recommends targets and fires to
support the plan.

The primary Are support means are
usually field artillery and mortars.

Primary targets planned are those
that suppress enemy gunners,
obscure observation, and close off
the Immediate battle area.

A few well-placed on-call targets are
beneficial. During the attack, fires can
be shifted from these locations.

Quick (hasty) fire plans are used.

As the attack progresses and new
targeting Information becomes
available, old targets are replaced
with new ones.

The battalion FSO Is kept informed of
the company fire support plans and
changes as they occur.

The fire support plan Is usually
Informal and Includes FA and mortar
fires. It may also Include NGF and
air support fires.

The battalion FSO participates in the
development d the attack plan.

He passes targets to fire support
agencies (FA mortars, and so forth).

He requests fires from the brigade
FSO, when necessary.

He keeps all corwemed Informed d
changes In fire support for the hasty
attack plan.

The brigade FSO prepares the
brigade fire suppon pilan. It Is based
on the brigade commander’s
guidance on targets and fire support
means.

He includes those targets d major
concern to the brigade plus those
requested by lower and higher levels.

POSITIONING OF FIRE SUPPORT ASSETS IN A HASTY ATTACK

COMPANY

BATTALION

BRIGADE

The company FSO Is most
concerned with positions for the
supporting mortars, field artillery, and
target acquisition means.

Usually, these means are positioned
well forward as when supporting the
movement to contact. Such
positioning precludes the need for
early displacements and allows them
to reach out for deeper targets.

Indirect fires should be continuously
available.

The battalion FSO Is concerned with
positions for indirect fire weapons
and target acquisition means. He
coordinates with FDCs and with the
brigade FSO on these actions.

He ensures that some Indirect fire
weapons are always available to
support the hasty attack.

When supporting, NGF ships are
positioned to exploit the range d
their weapons. TWs Is coordinated
with SALT personnel at the FS cell.

The brigade FSO is concerned with
the positions for Indirect fire weapons
(usually FA and NGF) and with
avalable target acquisition means.

If the brigade has been allocated
TACAIR, the FSO wll be concerned
with Its responsiveness. Some aircraft
may be kept on ground or air alert
to meet thte need. This Is arranged
through the ALO at the FS cell.

3-8

FM 6-20-50

Fire Support Coordinating Measures

Usually, the nature of a hasty attack inhibits
the establishment and dissemination of formal
fire support coordinating measures.

Deliberate Attack

Description

The deliberate attack is one that is thoroughly
planned and coordinated. Fires and maneuver
are fully meshed. Time is available to do this.
Usually, this type of attack is necessary when
the unit is confronted with a well-organized
enemy defense and when the enemy cannot be
turned or bypassed. Attacking forces must be
organized in depth. Reserves must be
positioned and prepared to replace lead
elements or to exploit success wherever it is
achieved. Fire support must be flexible to meet
all contingencies.

Usually, attack planning begins with the
receipt of a mission. Tasks needed to
accomplish the mission are developed in
estimates by the supported commander and his
staff, to include the FSCOORD. Usually, a
mission is translated into the seizure of certain
objectives to accomplish the mission.

In designating objectives for the attack,
commanders consider the factors of METT-T.
Once objectives are selected, the scheme of
maneuver and the allocation of forces and fire
support can be determined.

The scheme of maneuver seeks to gain a
position advantage over the enemy, to close
with him quickly, and to destroy his capability
to defend. The attack may be oriented against
the front, flanks, or rear of the defender. It
may be conducted from the ground, the air, or
both. The specific form is determined after
METT-T are considered. The scheme selected
must promise the quickest possible seizure of
the objective. It must facilitate future
operations. The scheme identifies where the

main attack is made and the provisions for
exploiting success when it occurs. In the attack,
the maneuver commander must be prepared
to shift his main attack to exploit unanticipated
successes elsewhere.

In some cases, the enemy situation may be so
obscure that the supported commander may
not designate a main attack until the situation
develops.

The allocation of forces and fire support is
determined concurrently with the scheme of
maneuver. Combat power is concentrated
against enemy weaknesses. Commanders
weight the main attack by positioning reserves
to reinforce the main effort, by assigning a
narrower zone to the main attack force, or by
assigning priority of fires and other support to
the main attack.

The reserve is one of the commander’s
principal means of influencing the action once
the attack is under way. It is used to reinforce
success in the attack. Usually, the reserve is
positioned near the area in which it is most
likely to be committed. The FSCOORD
ensures that fire support for the reserve, when
committed, is planned.

The fire support plan provides for fires that
directly support assault elements and for fires
in general support of the entire force.
Provisions are included for support of the
reserve when committed. An important
consideration in deliberate attack planning is
the decision on whether to fire a preparation.
This decision is based on the need for surprise,
knowledge of the enemy strength and
dispositions, NBC protection requirements,
available munitions and/or weapon systems,
and the results desired from the preparation.

FSCOORD Activities

FSCOORD activities to support a deliberate
attack at company, battalion, and brigade
levels are discussed in the following table.

3-9

FSCOORD ACTIVITIES IN A DELIBERATE ATTACK

FM 6-20-50

COMPANY

BATTALION

BRIGADE

Adequate fire support planning time
is usually avalable.

The company FSO receives
guidance on the attack plan from the
supported commander.

Forward observers are given the
necessary planning guidance.

Fire support targets are received
from the battalion and analyzed. The
company FSO adds any other
targets he has already developed on
the basis of the com^ny scheme of
maneuver. The refined target list is
then transmitted back to battalion.

The company FSO develops the
company Are support plan.

The company FSO keeps the
company commander, subordinate
FOs, and supervising FSOs HTformed
of changes In the Are support
situation.

The battalion FSO helps the
supported battalion commander
develop the attack plan.

He supervises the functioning of the
FS cell and the SLtoxdlnate RSTs.

He receives targets from the brigade
FSO, modifies them as necessary,
and adds targets that he already
developed which are of concern to
the battalion commander. He
forwards the target list to subordinate
company FSOs. Refined target lists
develop^ by battalion and
company FSOs are transmitted to
brigade.

The battalion FSO develops the task
force Are support plan.

He recommends sectors of search
for target acquisition means

He keeps the batteyion FDC Informed.

The brigade FSO helps the brigade
commander develop his attack plan
by recommending fire support for It.

He receives targets from division.
With other members of the staff, he
develops additional targets In the
brigade zone and transmits the
target list to the battalion FSOs
Additional targets received are
resolved, prIorlUzed, and transmitted
to the DS battalion.

He supervises the functions of the
brigade FS cell.

He develops the brigade Are support
plan.

He supervises the activities of
subordinate FSOs

He keeps the parent FA organization
Informed of brigade attack plans and
changes as they occur.

He recommends the allocation of Are
support.

Fire Support Planning

Fires are planned to support maneuver
phases of the operation. Groups and series
are planned to support the movement.
Suppressive fires are planned on enemy
overmatching direct fire systems to help
maneuver direct fire systems engage them.
Smoke is planned to screen movement,
obscure vision from enemy OPs, and help
in breaching operations. Preparation fires
should be planned and may be executed at
the commander’s discretion. During the
attack, immediately responsive fires are
provided to the lead elements by assigning
priority of fire support. Consolidation of
the objective is supported. Fires must be
planned beyond the objective to prevent

reinforcement of the enemy and to defeat
enemy counterattacks. A hasty attack or
defense is planned. Throughout the
operation, the attack of deep targets is
planned to block movements of reserves
and follow-on forces into the close-in
battle area. The FSCOORD at each level
must ensure the adequacy of fire support
for his level. Actions for fire support
planning in the deliberate attack at
company, battalion, and brigade levels are
discussed on the next page.

Positioning of Fire Support Assets

Some of the positioning considerations for fire
support assets supporting a deliberate attack
are discussed on the next page.

3-10

FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING IN A DELIBERATE ATTACK

FM 6-20-50

COMPANY

BATTALION

BRIGADE

Fire support usually consists of field
artillery and mortars.

Targets are developed at the platoon
and company headquarters In
addition to targets sent down from
the battalion FSO.

Usually, a fire support ®<ecutlon
matrix serves as the company fire
support plan.

Targets for Indirect fire weapons are
passed to the appropriate FDCs.
Requests fa air support and
addittonal fires go to the battalion
FSO.

On-call targets are updated as
needed.

Fire support available usually
Includes FA and heavy mortar fires.
Naval gunfire ships arid tactical air
support aircraft may also support.

The battalion fire support executton
matrix may constitute the fire
support plan at this level.

Targets planned at lower levels are
used to refine target lists developed
at battalion arxl higher levels.

If additional fire support Is needed,
requests are pass^ to the brigade
FSO.

Targets to be fired by outside
agencies (such as Navy a Air
Face) are passed to their liaison
representatives In the FS cell for
act ton.

On-call targets are updated as
needed,

Development of fire support plans
tends to be more formal than at
lower levels. Target lists are
developed, and targets are passed
to appropriate battalion FSOs and
firing agencies through the liaison
representatives In the brigade
FS cell.

Targets received from lower levels
are used as refinement for the
brigade fire support plan.

Requests for addittonal fire support
are passed to the division (div arty
CP for FA fires and dMsIon main FS
cell for aher types of support).

The brigade FS cell prepares the
fire support plan (usually a portion
of the brigade OPORD),

POSITIONING OF FIRE SUPPORT ASSETS IN A DELIBERATE ATTACK

COMPANY

BATTALION

BRIGADE

The weapons of concern at this level
are the company mortars. They are
usually positioned well forward to
exploit their range and to preclude
early displacements.

FO parties are positioned with the
platoons to cover platoon sectors.

Positioning concerns center on the
heavy mortars at this level.

On occasion, field artillery and NGF
ships may be In direct support of the
maneuver battalion task face. These
weapons are positioned to cover as
much of the area of operations as
possible.

Target acquisition means are
positioned to cover as much of the
task force sector as practical.

Direct support field artillery, to
Include the AN/TPQ-36 radar If
available, Is positioned well forward
to support the deliberate attack.

Displacements of field artillery should
ensure continuous FA support

TACAIR assets may be placed on
ground alert to increase their
responsiveness.

Fire Support Coordinating Measures support coordinating measures in effect are

These measures are used in the deliberate attack posted to maps, charts, and overlays. Actions to

to facilitate attack of the enemy and provide implement fire support coordinating measures at

safety for friendly troops. At all levels, fire each level are discussed on the next page.

3-11

FM 6-20-50

FIRE SUPPORT COORDINATING MEASURES IN A DELIBERATE ATTACK

COMPANY

BATTALION

BRIGADE

Normally, the company does not
establish fire support coordinating
measures; however, It does adhere
to those established by higher levels.

The company FSO keeps the
platoons Informed when changes
occur.

Fire planners adhere to existing fire
support coordinating measures
established by higher levels.

Occasionally, the parent brigade
may direct the lead battalion or task
force to establish a coordinated fire
line.

All existing measures are
disseminated to lower level FSOs as
are changes to these measures.

Normally, the brigade commander
establishes a brigade CFL and
advances It as the attack moves
forward.

The division main FS cell and FS
cells with adjacent and lower levels
are kept Informed of changes In Are
support coordinating measures.

The brigade FSCOORD
recommends the locations for
brigade-established measures.

Exploitation

Description

Exploitation follows an attack and is initiated
from an attack formation. Exploitation forces
usually go for deep objectives. They seize
command posts, sever escape routes, and hit
reserves, field artillery, and combat support
units. Exploitation forces keep the enemy from
reconstituting an effective defense. Eield
artillery movements and positions are earefully
planned and eoordinated.

Supported forces drive swiftly for deep
objectives. The force should be large, fairly
self-sufficient, and well supported by combat
support assets. It should be able to change
direction quickly.

Decentralized exeeution is eharaeteristie of an
exploitation. However, the major command must
retain enough control to preclude an
overextension of its force.

Eorces in the exploitation usually advance
rapidly. Actions are characterized by speed,
boldness, responsive fire support, and speedy
commitment of reserves.

Eollow-and-support forces may be used in
exploitation and pursuit actions. These forces -

• Widen or secure the shoulders of a
penetration.

Z Destroy bypassed enemy forces.

• Relieve supported units that are halted to
contain enemy elements.

• Open and secure lines of communication.

• Guard prisoners and key areas or installations.

• Control refugees.

The exploiting foree elears only as mueh of the
assigned sector as necessary to permit the
advance to continue. Threat forces that
interfere or ean interfere with exploiting forees
are destroyed. Others are bypassed and
reported to the next higher headquarters.
Occasionally, some forces may remain to fix
enemy pockets of resistance until relieved by
follow-and-support elements.

FSCOORD Activities

The ESCOORD activities at any level to
support an exploitation include the following:

• Continuously eoordinate with the ESCOORD
of the follow-and-support force to identity
bypassed enemy elements and to pass fire
support tasks.

3-12

FM 6-20-50

• Anticipate situations that would require
rapid transition to more centralized fire
support.

Z Ensure that ammunition, supplies, and
maintenance are moved forward with the
exploiting fire support means.

• Plan for a hasty attack.

•Use on-order CFLs to quiekly aetivate them.
Restrictive fire lines (RFLs) may be
necessary between the direct pressure force
and the follow-and-support force.

Once brigades begin their exploitation, the
division need for highly centralized control
and deliberately planned massed fires
decreases. There is an increase, however, in
the need for highly mobile, flexible fire
support that is responsive to the needs of
the exploiting brigades. Fire support tasks
for the exploitation include-

Z Suppression of bypassed pockets of enemy
resistance.

• Support for maneuver elements left behind to
fix bypassed enemy.

• Support for hasty attacks against the enemy
that cannot be bypassed.

Z Fires to prevent counterattack by enemy
forces.

• Deep fires to block the retreat of enemy
forces and to prevent enemy reinforcements.

Z Counterfires on enemy indirect and air
defense weapon systems.

Fire Support Planning

Fire support may include T AC AIR and
attack helicopters in addition to field
artillery.

TACAIR. An exploiting brigade should be
allocated as many TACAIR sorties as
division can afford. These aircraft can -

• Operate wide and deep, given at least air
parity.

Z Seek out, follow, and destroy withdrawing
enemy forces.

Attack Helicopters. When task-organized by
division, attack helicopters can accomplish
missions similar to those of TACAIR.
However, the refueling and rearming
burden remains a division task.

Field Artillery. Fire planning for the
exploitation may be fairly detailed for the
first few kilometers beyond the penetration
zone. After that point, however, it is hasty
and informal, orienting on the rapid attack
of targets of opportunity. It is done
primarily by company and battalion FSOs.

If an exploiting maneuver element meets a
pocket of resistance that can be bypassed,
supporting field artillery may have to place
continuous suppression fires on the
bypassed enemy until the supported
element is safely past. In other situations,
the supported element may have to leave a
task force in position to fix the bypassed
enemy force while the exploitation
continues. The FSCOORD with the
exploiting element must then arrange for
fire support for the stay-behind force.

The FSCOORDs at battalion and brigade
levels must continually anticipate and plan
for hasty attacks in case major resistance is
met and cannot be bypassed.

Positioning of Fire Support Assets

Because of the speed inherent in the
exploitation, positioning of fire support
weapons is extremely challenging. Both
weapons and target acquisition assets must be

3-13

FM 6-20-50

positioned to meet the needs of supported
forees. The speed of an exploitation limits use
of many TA assets because of emplacement
and displacement times. Hasty survey
techniques are normal. Naval gunfire ships, if
available, are positioned to exploit the ranges
of their weapons. Supporting aircraft may be
on ground or air alert to enhance their
responsiveness.

Fire Support Coordinating Measures

The brigade FSCOORD closely monitors the
progress of exploiting elements to ensure that
fire support coordinating measures are updated
quickly. Usually, the FSCOORD recommends
that the CFL be kept well forward. Locations
for the advancing friendly units are constantly
changing, and all fire support in the objective
areas must be closely coordinated.

Pursuit

Description

Pursuit, like exploitation, may also follow an
attack and is started from an attack formation.
The pursuing commander keeps constant
pressure on the enemy to prevent his orderly
withdrawal. Fire support helps maintain this
pressure by timely field artillery movements
and positioning. Follow-and-support forces
may be used as in the exploitation.

The pursuit to destroy a retreating enemy is
an extension of the exploitation. Its purpose is
to cut off the enemy and completely destroy
him. The force commander quickly commits
all available elements to pursue when the
enemy can no longer operate effectively and
tries to flee.

Forces conducting a pursuit continue direct
pressure with one element on a broad front
against the enemy. Another highly mobile
encircling element cuts the enemy’s line of
retreat to intercept and destroy him. If the

encircling force cannot outdistance the enemy,
it attacks the enemy’s main body on its flank.

Air assault forces may secure key terrain in
the path of the retreating enemy to block
his escape routes. Fire support strikes deep
and concentrates on escape routes and
enemy reserves.

In many respects, fire support for the pursuit
is similar to that for the exploitation. The
main differences are explained by the single
goal of the pursuit, which is to destroy the
enemy. Rapid advances on multiple routes
characterize both operations. However, in the
pursuit, the objective is to bring the elements
together to destroy the enemy.

The fire support system must be flexible enough
to allow independent support for both the direct
pressure forces and the encircling forces during
the pursuit yet allow coordinated employment to
destroy the enemy after he is trapped.

FSCOORD Activities

Tasks for fire support in the pursuit are
discussed below.

The direct pressure force is supported as follows:

• Fires are placed on retreating enemy units to
slow, erode, demoralize, and destroy them.

• Enemy rear guard and strongpoint elements are
suppressed so that they can be bypassed and
contact with the main force can he maintained.

• Fires from all fire support means are massed on
enemy forces concentrated around choke points,
defiles, communications centers, and bridges.

The encircling force is supported as follows:

• Enemy positions are suppressed with smoke,
HE, and improved conventional munitions
(ICM) so that the enveloping force can
bypass them.

3-14

FM 6-20-50

• Fires support the encircling force flank attack if
it is unable to outdistance the enemy’s main
body.

The converging direct pressure and encircling
forces are supported by massing fires from all
fire support means to destroy the trapped enemy.

Fire Support Planning

Like for the exploitation fire planning for the
pursuit is primarily hasty and informal.

Fire Support Coordinating Measures

The most critical coordination problem facing
the FSCOORD of a pursuing element occurs
when the direct pressure and encircling forces
converge on each other to destroy the enemy.
The FSCOORD must ensure that all fires
concentrate on the trapped enemy. Normally, an
RFL is placed between the two converging
friendly forces to ensure smooth and safe
coordination of fires.

Special Offensive Operations

Ambush

An ambush is a surprise attack by fire from
concealed positions on a moving or temporarily
halted enemy. It is an excellent technique to
destroy enemy forces if intelligence about
enemy dispositions and intentions is limited.

Fire support for the ambush includes the
following:

• Fires planned along reconnaissance routes.
These should be fired only if surprise is lost.
They include identifying or marking fires and
smoke for screening-or obscuring.

Z Fires in support of the deception plan.

Z Fires planned on checkpoints, rally points,
rendezvous points, and along planned
withdrawal routes.

• Fires planned to support primary and
alternate ambush positions.

• Blocking fires to keep the enemy force from
escaping.

An FO should go with the ambush force. If
that is not possible, a communications net for
calls for fire must be established and
monitored by the appropriate fire support
personnel or agency.

Raid

A raid is an operation, usually small-scale,
involving a swift penetration of hostile territory
to secure information, to confuse the enemy,
or to destroy his installations. It ends with a
planned withdrawal upon completion of the
assigned mission.

Feint

A feint is an offensive operation intended to
draw the enemy’s attention away from the area
of the main attack. This induces the enemy to
move his reserves or to shift his fire support in
reaction to the feint. Feints must appear real;
therefore, some contact with the enemy is
required. Usually, a limited- objective attack
ranging in size from a raid to a supporting
attack is conducted.

Reconnaissance in Force

A reconnaissance in force is a limited-objective
operation conducted by at least a battalion
task force. Its purpose is to get information
and to locate and test enemy dispositions,
strengths, and reactions. Even though a
reconnaissance in force is executed primarily
to gather information, the force conducting the
operation must seize any opportunity to exploit
tactical success. If the enemy situation must be
developed along a broad front, the
reconnaissance in force may consist of strong
probing actions to determine the enemy
situation at selected points.

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Section III FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING FOR THE DEFENSE

Purpose of Defensive Operations

The purpose of any defense is to defeat an
enemy attack and gain the initiative for offensive
operations. Light forces defend to deny the
enemy, the initiative and as a prelude to offensive
operations. The use of superior positions, terrain
positioning, and fighting the enemy throughout
the depth of his formation set the stage for
successful offensive operations. The key to
defense is depth. Light forces must be able to
attack the enemy throughout his formations from
positions that are mutually supporting and
arrayed in depth.

Types of Defensive Operations

The most traditional defensive operations are
those characterized by the use of control
measures. They include-

• Defend in sector.

• Defend from a battle position.

• Defend from a strongpoint.

Z Perimeter defense.

Battalions and above are normally given the
mission to defend in sector, leaving the
commander the most latitude to develop his own
defensive plan. Battalions may be given one of
the more restrictive or defined defensive
missions, but these are normally reserved for
smaller units.

Defend in Sector

The most frequent and least restrictive defensive
operation that a commander may receive is to
defend in sector. It requires him to defend in an
area defined by two lateral boundaries - a rear
boundary and the forward edge of the battle
area ( FEBA). The unit may defend forward in
sector, denying enemy penetration or simply
countering enemy attempts to infiltrate it may
defend to draw the enemy into the sector to

expose his flanks and rear to attack. Also, light
infantry defend- in- sector operations may be
defending river-crossing sites; denying road or
trail use in an area; or forcing an enemy to
dismount by impeding mechanized movement
along a major, high-speed avenue through close
terrain. Regardless of the specific mission, when
assigned a def end-in- sector operation, the
commander is responsible for the positioning
and maneuver of his force. Coordination is made
with the units on both flanks to ensure that fields
of observation and fire overlap and that there
are no gaps in the defense.

Defend From a Battle Position

Defend from a battle position is used when the
terrain is suited to concentrating fires. Battle
positions are normally used when key terrain
must be held or when the position commands a
good engagement area. Obstacles are used to
slow the enemy and canalize him in the
engagement area in such a reamer that the
battle position units can engage targets from the
flanks and rear.

Defend From a Strongpoint

A strongpoint defense is unique because it is a
mission, a technique, and a control measure. A
unit can defend from a strongpoint, but the
planning and preparation for this mission are
time- and resource-intensive. The enemy
cannot bypass or reduce the strongpoint
without expending excessive resources and
time. It is essentially an antiarmor nest.
Because of the nature of the operation,
strongpoints are located in restrictive
terrain - such as urban areas, mountains, and
thick forests - that cannot be bypassed easily.
Since the defending unit must keep the enemy
from bypassing or reducing the strongpoint,
priority tasks for engineers are countermobility
and survivability. The strongpoint is defended
until the defending unit is formally relieved by
the commander directing the defense.

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Units may be directed to construct a
strongpoint as part of a larger overall defensive
plan. To do this, the defending unit must be
augmented with extensive engineer support,
additional key weapon systems, pioneer tools,
additional transportation assets, and CSS
resources. To offset some of the support
requirements, the commander may decide to
take advantage of an existing obstacle, such as
a town or village, to reduce the time required
to develop a strongpoint.

Strongpoints may be on the FEBA or in the
depth of the battle area. The commander makes
that determination on the basis of the time and
resources available, the availability of engineer
support, the terrain available to serve as the
choke point and his ability to tie the choke point
into the rest of the defense.

Several aspects of the strongpoint defense are
critical. The following aspects are incorporated
into the overall plain:

• Covered and concealed routes are
constructed or planned between positions,
along routes of supply and communication,
and to support counterattacks and maneuver
within the strongpoint.

• Food, water, ammunition, pioneer tools, and
medical supplies are stockpiled in each
fighting position.

• The strongpoint is divided into several
independent but mutually supporting
positions or sectors. If one of the positions or
sectors must be evacuated or is overrun,
obstacles and fires limit the enemy
penetration and support a counterattack.

• Obstacles and minefield are constructed to
dismpt and canalize the enemy formations, to
reinforce fires, and to protect the strongpoint
from assault. The obstacles and mines are
placed as far out as friendly units can observe
and cover with fire, within the strongpoint

itself, behind the strongpoint, and at points in
between where they will be useful.

Z Several means of communication within the
strongpoint and to higher headquarters are
planned and tested. They include radio, wire,
messenger, pyrotechnics, and other signals.

• The strongpoint is improved or repaired until
the unit is relieved or withdrawn. Additional
positions can be built tunnels and trenches can
be dug existing positions can be improved or
repaired and barriers can be built or fixed.

• The strongpoint position itself must be an
obstacle to enemy mounted movement.

A strongpoint may be part of any defensive plan.
It may be built to protect vital units or
installations around which more mobile units
maneuver, or it may be part of a trap designed
to destroy enemy forces that attack. It may be in
an urban area or in a wilderness.

Urban areas are easily converted to strongpoints.
Stone, brick or steel buildings provide cover and
concealment. Buildings, sewers, and some streets
provide covered and concealed routes. Buildings
can be rubbled to provide obstacles. Telephone
systems can provide communications.

Nonurban areas are also used as strongpoints.
Normally, they are constmcted by digging into
the earth. Sometimes parapets may be built.
However, in most cases, concealment should not
be sacrificed to provide cover. The strongpoint is
molded to the terrain and uses natural
camouflage and obstacles. Mountains, rivers,
swamps, and forests can support formidable
strongpoints.

Perimeter Defense

The perimeter defense is conducted in the same
manner as defense from a battle position, except
the perimeter defense orients on 360 degrees.
The perimeter defense is often used as a light
infantry technique.

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While a battle position can allow for some
penetration, a perimeter defense cannot.
Perimeter defenses protect the force, hold
specific terrain or protect a key installation from
destruction by ground attack or infiltration. In
the perimeter defense, the flanks of all units are
tied together to provide mutual support.

If the perimeter is penetrated, the reserve blocks
the penetration or it counterattacks to restore
the perimeter. Units obtain depth by planning
positions in depth. Antiarmor weapons are
positioned on the most likely enemy avenues of
mounted approach. Mortars are usually
positioned in the center of the perimeter and
can fire 360 degrees. Perimeters may defend
assembly areas, specific installations or
equipment (such as CPs, downed aircraft,
bridges, airfields, and roadblocks), or key terrain;
or they may be part of a larger unit perimeter,
airheat or lodgment.

Patrols provide early warning and harass
the enemy.

Fire Support for
Defensive Operations

General fire support considerations for the
defense apply to all defensive operations
discussed above. Key is the application of fire
support as early as possible throughout the entire
defensive sector in support of the defensive
battle plan.

Fires Forward of the Main Battle Area

Counterreconnaissa nee fires are planned to deny
the enemy information about friendly forces. The
following considerations apply:

• Fires are executed on reconnaissance (recon)
and intelligence-gathering elements (the combat
recon patrol and forward security element).

• Fires should be planned to support the
forward recon or scout elements according to

their mission guidance from the commander.
Fires should be planned to help these
elements move and disengage as they fall
hack.

• Augmentation of forward elements with
observers or additional target acquisition
assets may be required.

• Laser-guided munitions, guided by COLTS
placed forward or by aerial fire support systems,
may be used in the counterreconnaissance
effort. If COLTS are employed their proper
positioning to support the commander’s intent
will be key.

Fires are planned to develop the situation early

by forcing early deployment by the enemy.

Actions that contribute to early deployment are

as follows:

• Engage the enemy at the maximum effective
range of available fire support systems.

Z Ensure observers are in forward positions to
be effective; they may be placed in key
positions overmatching avenues of approach.

• Plan fires to delay enemy advances and to cause
enemy armor or mechanized elements to button
up.

• Canalize the enemy into choke points and
preplanned, long-range engagement areas;
plan to mass fires on choke points and
engagement areas to inflict maximum early
casualties.

• Plan fires to isolate lead echelons from
follow-on forces. This makes it easier for
friendly maneuver forces to defeat the enemy in
sequence. Plan smoke and FASCAM, if
available, behind enemy forward elements and
in front of follow-on forces.

Z Engage high-payoff targets in follows forces
early to disrupt enemy operations.

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• Plan a counterpreparation, which may be
executed at the commander’s discretion.

• If a eovering foree is deployed forward of the
main battle area (MBA), coordinate fires on
targets in the seeurity area with the eovering
force.

Z Plan TACAIR on known, likely, or suspeeted
enemy locations.

Fires in the Main Battle Area

Throughout the Depth of the Main Battle Area. As

the enemy moves into the MBA use fire support
to foree him to deploy early, revealing his main
attack. Contingency plans must be made to
reallocate fire support assets once the main
attack is identified. Plan fires throughout the
depth of the MBA as follows:

• Mass fires to delay, disrupt, and destroy the
enemy throughout the sector.

Z Plan supporting tires, smoke, suppression fires,
and priority targets along withdrawal routes.

Z Plan fires to help maneuver move and
disengage from enemy forces as they fall back
through the M BA.

Planned Engagement Areas. Plan fires as follows in
support of planned engagement areas:

• Use fire support to canalize the enemy into
choke points and/or engagement areas.

• Plan groups for simultaneous engagement of
enemy within the engagement area.

• Plan series to preelude the enemy’s movement

out of the engagement area and to keep him
moving under continuous fire.

Z Consider an illumination schedule over the
engagement area.

Z Plan massed fires to inflict maximum casualties
on enemy within the engagement area.

• Plan TACAIR and the airspaee management
requirements for its employment.

• Consider the use of attack helicopters in a fire
support role.

Support of the Obstacle Plan. Plan fires in front of,
on top of, to the sides of, and behind obstaeles
to maximize their effeet as eombat multipliers.
These fires may be shifted from one or more
planned targets, depending on the size of the
obstacle. Plan fire support as follows:

• Plan fires far forward of obstacles to disrupt
enemy formations, to separate attacking
echelons, and to force enemy deployment into
forward engagement areas. As the enemy
approaches an obstacle, massed fires and priority
targets maximize casualties on enemy elements
halted or bunched by the obstacle.

• Plan fires on top of obstacles to hinder
breaehing attempts and to destroy breaehing
teams or equipment, ineluding lane markers.
The eommander must eonsider the effeets of
these fires on the obstacle itself when deciding
to fire on top of it.

• Plan fires to the sides of obstacles to hinder
enemy attempts to bypass obstacles.

• Plan fires behind the obstacle to destroy the
enemy piecemeal as he passes through the
obstacle, to support the withdrawal of friendly
elements, and to force the enemy into another
engagement area.

Z Consider smoke to support the obstaele plan.
Fired in front of the obstacle, smoke obscures
the obstaele from the enemy. Fired on top of
and to the sides of the obstacle, smoke hinders
breaching or bypassing efforts; it silhouettes the
enemy for overwatching elements if the enemy
succeeds in breaching or bypassing.

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• Devise an observation plan that provides for
eontinuous observation (to inelude periods of
limited visibility) from multiple vantage points.

• Designate redundant responsibilities for
executing fires in support of obstacles and
primary and alternate communications means.

Z Defensive Fires Plan defensive fires as follows:

• Integrate indirect fire support into direct fire
defensive plans,

• Suppress enemy direct and indirect fire
weapons.

Z Assign priority targets and final protective fires
to battle positions strongpoints, or perimeter
defenses to preclude the enemy’s breaching of
defenses.

Section IV.

This section Implements STANAG 2082, Edition 5.

Delay

Description

The delay trades space for time while inflicting
maximum punishment on the enemy without
becoming decisively engaged. The delaying force
selects positions that provide long-range
observation and fields of fire. Thus, friendly
forces can engage the enemy at long ranges and
bring him under increasingly heavy fires as he
maneuvers toward friendly positions. The
delaying force seeks concealment and cover for
delaying position assembly area and routes of
movement. It occupies battle positions long
enough to cause the enemy to deploy and to
allow the delaying force to develop the situation
and maneuver to an attack position. The
delaying force normally deploys to the next delay
position before becoming decisively engaged.

Z Consider the use of appropriate fire support
coordinating measures to facilitate attack of the
enemy.

• Make contingency plans to reallocate fire
support assets to strengthen vulnerable areas.
On-order priorities of fire must be designated
and T AC AIR must be planned to support
contingencies.

Support of the Hasty Attack. The opportunity
to counterattack may appear quickly, Plan
continuously to support a hasty attack:

•Use quick fire planning techniques as planning
time will be limited.

Z Place CPUs close to forward units to open
up the area for rapid engagement of the
enemy.

. TECHNIQUES

Fire Support Considerations

Fires are planned to engage the enemy early,
before he gets to the battle positions, to inflict
casualties and disrupt his approach to the
positions. Massed fires on high-payoff targets
and canalizing terrain are planned. Enemy
reserves and logistic sites are engaged to
reduce the ability of the enemy to support the
attacking force.

All fire support assets must be used to support
the forces as they proceed to the rear. Priority
targets are planned and designated as are fires
along the route from the old position to the next
position. Observers are placed in position to
support the displacing force. COLTS may be
needed to provide the degree of support
necessary. All assets are used to support the
movement. Smoke may be used to screen the
movement.

Fires must be planned in front of, on top of, and
to the sides of the battle position to engage the

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enemy immediately before his attack of that
position. Also, FPFs should be planned.

Fires must be planned for the disengagement.
Specifically, massed fires on likely and known
enemy positions and smoke should be planned.
Use of the COLT can help in this.

At some time during the battle, the enemy
may become particularly vulnerable. The
commander may decide to conduct a
counterattack. There may be enough planning
time to use quick fire planning procedures.
Otherwise, the FSO must be prepared to shift
and mass fires. He must plan continuously. If
the counterattack is going to be more than a
limited one, the FSO must be prepared to
reallocate assets in support of it.

Withdrawal

Description

During a withdrawal, all or part of a force
disengages from the enemy and moves away in
an organized manner. A withdrawal may occur
under enemy pressure or not under pressure.
It may be executed during daylight or
darkness. When withdrawing from the enemy,
it is important to put distance between the
disengaging force and the enemy as quickly as
possible, preferably without the enemy’s
knowledge. Withdrawal is best done under the
cover of darkness or limited visibility, even
though command and control is more difficult.
Smoke helps conceal the operation. In the
case of the withdrawal under enemy pressure,
the commander will leave an overmatching
force, a covering force, or a detachment left in
contact (DLIC) to maintain contact with the
enemy and keep him from spoiling the
withdrawal. The DLIC may have to perform a
delay to keep enemy forces from engaging
friendly forces at this critical time.

Fire Support Considerations

Withdrawal Without Enemy Pressure. Ideally, the
maneuver force will be able to withdraw
without enemy pressure. In such a case, the
commander will want to use a deception plan
to make it look as though the force is still in
contact with the enemy. The withdrawal may
be detected by the enemy. Therefore, the
FS COORD must be prepared to support a
withdrawal under enemy pressure.

Withdrawn Under Enemy Pressure. If the force
must withdraw under enemy pressure, the
DLIC must be given maximum fire support to
help in the disengagement. Suppression of
enemy direct fire systems and the use of
smoke to obscure enemy OPs must be
planned. Because of terrain considerations,
smoke may be required to screen friendly
movement. T AC AIR and attack helicopters in
a fire support role may be used to provide
effective support.

Barriers and obstacles become critical to the
success of the operation. Massed fires in support
of barriers and obstacles and the use of smoke
can severely restrict enemy movement.

Passage of Lines

Description

A passage of lines is conducted to allow a
moving unit to pass through a stationary unit.
It can be conducted in offensive or defensive
operations. During this passage, both units are
temporarily concentrated in the same area and
are, therefore, vulnerable to enemy action. The
normal confusion of combat is increased by
having two units in an area where only one
was before. Therefore, extremely detailed
planning and coordination are required. A
passage of lines is rarely a specified mission;
rather, it is usually an implied task.

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Planning

Extremely detailed planning is required for a
passage of lines to avoid unneeessary easualties
and damage to equipment and to deceive the
enemy. The aspects of planning that the
FSCOORDs of the stationary and passing forces
must be concerned with are discussed below.

Control Measures. The following data must be
passed between the forces involved:

Z Location of passage lanes.

Z Location of passage points.

• Location of contact points.

• Recognition signals.

• Attack positions or assembly area (in a
forward passage).

• Routes (start points [SPs] and release points
[RPs]).

Z Location of CS and CSS units (in a rearward
passage).

Transfer of Control. The commanders of the two
forces decide when transfer of control will be
effected. Most often it will be determined by
event; however, the commanders may select a
time (H-hour) to effect transfer of control. This
transfer of control impacts on fire support (that
is, the mission changes from DS to GS, GSR or
reinforcing [R] or from GS, GSR, or R to DS).
Also, responsibility for fire support coordination
passes from the FSCOORD of the force in
contact to the FSCOORD of the passing force at
H-hour (or event). In a fluid situation which will
be the norm, this transfer of control will
probably not occur across the front at the same
time. Therefore, it must be planned for and
procedures established such as for collocation of
DS battalion CPs, to ensure smooth transition.

Targeting. Targeting is similar for forward and
rearward passages of lines.

For a forward passage of lines -

• Screen enemy forward observation of
passage.

• Plan groups and/or series of targets on enemy
direct fire systems, command and control,
indirect fire systems, TA systems, and AD.

Z Plan fires to support the deception plan.

• Plan smoke to screen friendly movement
through passage points.

• Plan fires to interdict enemy counterattacks
in the area of passage and reinforcements.

• Emphasize massing indirect fires.

• Ensure the stationary force supports the close
battle while the passing force indirect fire
assets move through.

• Ensure counterfire is planned and controlled
by the stationary force.

• Position COLTS of both forces to designate
targets for precision guided munitions.

• Plan fire support coordinating measures.

• Use aerial fire support observers (AFSOs) to
cover dead space and flanks.

• Ensure the passing force plans fires to
support operations after the passage of lines.

For a rearward passage-

Z Plan smoke to conceal movement through
passage points.

Z Plan fires to disengage forces.

• Plan fires to support the obstacle and barrier
plans.

• Plan fires to support the deception plan.

• Plan fire support coordinating measures.

• Ensure the stationary force supports the close
battle while the passing force indirect fire
assets move through.

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Ensure counterfire is planned and controlled by
the stationary force.

Plan fires on the passage points to be fired after
friendly units have passed through.

Ensure the stationary force plans fires to support
operations after the passage-of lines.

Positioning of Fieid Artiiiery

Positioning is a critical task in the support of a
passage of lines.

Forward Passage. The field artillery of the passing
force should be infiltrated from the rear
assembly area to the designated primary
positions to support the operation. These
positions should be near the passage lanes but
not so close that they interfere with the
maneuver force movement. On a forward
passage, position priority goes to the passing
force. During the passage of lines the passing
force ES cell and/or CPs collocate with the
stationary force ES cell and/or CPs. The
ESCOORD must coordinate EA position areas
with the maneuver commander. Position areas
forward of the passage points are away from the
passage points. Their selection is based on the
anticipated rate of movement of the maneuver
forces and terrain availability.

Rearward Passage. The field artillery of the
stationary force should be positioned well
forward to provide deep fires to support the
withdrawal of the passing force. Again these
positions should be away from passage lanes. In
the rearward passage, the stationary force has
positioning priority. As the passing force
artillery moves through, it should position
behind the stationary artillery and move
laterally away from the passage lanes.

Coordination

Close cooperation and coordination of plans
between the commanders and staffs of the
involved forces are mandatory. Once the passage

of lines is ordered, the ESCOORD of the
passing force in a forward passage of lines needs
to send a liaison section to the ESCOORD of
the force in contact. In a rearward passage, the
ESCOORD of the stationtary force needs to send
a liaison section to the ESCOORD of the
passing force. The FSCOORDs define and assign
mutually agreed upon fire support responsibilities
to facilitate the passage. It is important to
remember that each unit will be in the area of
responsibility of another unit for a period of time
and that detailed coordination is vital to ensure
each unit understands how the other operates.
The two FSCOORDs need to share information
and coordinate as follows:

• Exchange unit SOPS, and resolve differences
in operating procedures.

• Exchange existing targets and fire plans.

Z Describe unit target acquisition assets.

• Exchange high-payoff target matrix, attack
guidance, and casualty criteria.

• Exchange control measures in effect; for
example, passage points, passage lanes, and
contact points.

• Exchange fire support coordinating measures
currently in effect and those that will be in
effect.

• Coordinate recognition signals.

Z Provide information on obstacles and
barriers.

• Coordinate position areas.

Z Provide met information to passing force.

• Provide available survey control to passing
force.

• Exchange SOIs, and resolve communications

differences; for example, frequencies, call
signs, and challenge and password.

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• Coordinate security measures in effect.

• Exchange intelligence.

Deliberate River Crossing

Maneuver Tasks and Events

In the deliberate river crossing, maneuver

tasks are as follows:

In the advance to the river-

• The crossing site must be secured.

• Control measures must be established.

Z Control must be transferred from the assault
force to the crossing area commander, who
controls the movement within the crossing
area.

In an assault crossing of the river -

• Support forces develop crossing sites emplace
crossing means, and control unit movement into
and away from the crossing sites.

• Defensible terrain is secured on the exit bank
The area must be large enough to accommodate
the assault force and other essential elements.

• Follow-up forces provide overmatching direct
and indirect fire support crossing site security
and follow-and-support assistance to the assault
force.

In the advance from the exit bank-

• Assault forces lead, making the initial assault
of the river and continuing to attack from the
exit bank.

• Support forces help the assault forces to the
objective.

• The assault force may make a hasty or
deliberate attack from the exit bank.

In securing the bridgehead, CSS elements sustain
the assault and subsequent advance to the
bridgehead. When the bridgehead is secured,
the river crossing is complete.

Fire Support Considerations

Fire Support Tasks. The following are fire
support tasks in the deliberate river crossing:

Z Make fires immediately available to crossing
forces.

• Assign priority of fires to assault forces.

• Plan smoke and suppression fires in greater
than normal amounts if necessary.

Z Use smoke to screen both actual and dummy
crossing sites.

Z Use smoke to obscure enemy direct fire
positions in the bridgehead area until the
crossing forces can engage them.

• Suppress enemy forces in the bridgehead
area until the assault force can provide its
own suppressive fires.

• Follow river-crossing SOP in planning fire
support.

•Use all available targeting assets to develop
targets in the bridgehead area. A direct link
between TA assets and supporting artillery
should be considered.

Z Use target value analysis to help develop
high-value targets and facilitate effective
engagement of high-payoff targets.

Z Ensure that DS and reinforcing units move
into the bridgehead area as soon as feasible
behind the assault force. This maximi z es
range capability of the weapon system and
enhances coordination.

NOTE: Movement by battalion is appropriate If
reinforcing FA is avaiiabie.

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Command and Control. Maneuver forces may
move into temporary defensive positions
pending the crossing. The massed units at the
crossing site are vulnerable to indirect fire and
counterattack. Fire support must be planned
accordingly.

Procedures to request, control, and coordinate
fires must be designated to provide continuous
fire support when DS artillery battalions cross
the river. The following considerations apply:

• Designate and disseminate on-order fire
support coordinating measures.

• Ensure that advance coordination, between

GS and DS units addresses C3 considerations
to facilitate a smooth transition.

Z Include all FS cells in the planning process.

Fire Support Planning and Coordination. The

width of the crossing area will affect the
planning. The amount of time necessary to
cross a river - hence, the vulnerability of the
crossing force -will affect the types and
volume of fires requested.

Prepare fire plans to soften enemy defenses at
crossing sites and to seal off far bank positions.
Fire planning should include the following:

• Fires to facilitate the assault force securing
the exit bank.

• Preparations, groups, and series to support
the operation as the assault force secures the
bridgehead.

• On-order fire support coordinating measures.

• Interdiction fires to isolate the bridgehead
area from enemy reinforcement.

Plan smoke to obscure actual and decoy crossing
sites and to screen friendly movements. Mortars
and artillery may be used to establish a smoke
screen on the enemy side of the river. Smoke
pots and generators will be required to establish
large-area screens and to sustain a smoke screen
to support the operation.

NOTE: Smoke created by almost any means will
pinpoint the area. Smoke used in river crossings
wiii draw the enemy’s attention; therefore, it is im-
portant that the smoke screen extends over
enough of the area so that the actual point of
crossing is not obvious to the enemy.

Relief in Place

Description

Supported maneuver forces conduct a relief in
place to remove units from combat. A
deployed force is replaced by another unit,
which assumes the mission and the assigned
seetor or zone of aetion of the outgoing unit.

The relief in place is executed in stages, from
front to rear or rear to front. The incoming
unit assumes the general defense plans of the
relieved unit.

Secrecy is vital to success, as the operation
must be eondueted without weakening seeurity.
Normal patterns of aetivity must be maintained
to deceive the enemy. The relief in place must
be executed expeditiously, and it is normally
eondueted at night or during periods of limited
visibility.

The following principles apply to all relief
operations:

• The relief seetor remains under the eontrol of
the outgoing eommander until all his forward
elements are relieved (or as mutually agreed
upon or directed).

Z Normally, the CP of the incoming
commander is collocated with that of the
outgoing commander.

• Liaison and communications between
outgoing and incoming FS cells are
established.

• SOPs are exchanged by outgoing and
incoming units.

3-25

FM 6-20-50

Z Existing fire plans are passed to the incoming
FSCOORD.

• Routes and times for the withdrawal of the
outgoing field artillery are established.

Fire Support Considerations

Fire Support Tasks. The following are fire
support tasks in a relief in place:

• Arrange for an exchange of outgoing and
incoming FS cell liaison personnel.

• Provide incoming field artillery with existing
fire plans.

• Determine needs for smoke and other types
of ammunition.

Z Establish how the outgoing field artillery will
be relieved.

• Establish how the outgoing field artillery will
contribute.

Command and Control. Normally, the field
artillery units will not be relieved at the same
time as the maneuver forces. The change of
fire support responsibilities is as agreed upon
by the two FSCOORDs unless otherwise
directed.

Fire Support Planning and Coordination. The

outgoing force passes fire plans to the incoming
force so that plans can be continued. The
following are specific tasks in fire support
planning and coordination:

• Prepare and disseminate plans to support the
incoming force.

• Make available to all concerned fire planning

SOP items of the incoming force.

Z Make arrangements for the incoming force to
use the targeting list and fire support means
of the outgoing force.

Z Ensure that fires have been planned to
support or emplace a barrier or ‘an obstacle
to slow advancing enemy.

• Plan smoke to screen friendly movements.

Z Support the deception plan.

Encircled Forces

Description

A force is considered encircled when all ground
routes of evacuation and reinforcement have
been cut by enemy action. A force may be
ordered to remain in a strong position on key
terrain to deny the enemy passage through a vital
choke point following an enemy breaktoough or
it may be left to hold the shoulder of a
penetration. In either case, it may become
encircled.

When the encirclement occurs, the senior
maneuver commander within the encirclement
assumes control of all forces. He must quickly
establish a viable defense, and fire support must
be centralized.

If there is a breakout it will be attempted as
soon as possible. The longer the encircled force
takes to reorganize and break out, the more
organized the enemy becomes. The breakout is
normally conducted during periods of darkness or
limited visibility. Overwhelming combat power is
focused at the breakout point. Tank- heavy or
mechanized forces, when available and terrain
permitting lead the attack. The rest of the forces
right a delaying action or defend the perimeter
during the initial stages, FA units are integrated
into the formations.

Fire Support Considerations

Fire Support Tasks. The following are fire support
tasks in an encirclement:

Z Reorganize available fire support.

ZWith the force commander, determine the
most critical areas in defense, future breakout
plans, and the amount of outside help
available.

• Prepare for the breakout.

3-26

FM 6-20-50

Command and Control. Field artillery and mortars
are centralized and positioned throughout the
encirclement to limit vulnerability and mass fires.
Communications are reestablished with FA units
and higher and lower FS cells.

Fire Support Planning and Coordination. The

following are fire support planning and
coordination tasks in the encirclement:

• Plan fires for both the defense and the
subsequent breakout.

• Effect fire support coordination with FS cells
outside the encircled area.

• Use fire support for deception, if necessary.

• Establish fire support coordinating measures
(an RFL if necessary).

• Use TACAIR and precision guided munitions
during the breakout.

• Plan massed fires at breakout points to
enhance momentum.

Linkup Operations

Description

Linkup operations join two friendly forces. They
may be moving toward one another, or one may
be stationary. It is a complex operation that
requires detailed planning and coordination.
Linkup operations often require a passage of
lines when the linkup is made, the linkup force
may join the stationary force or it may pass
through or around and continue the attack.

The controlling headquarters of both forces
establishes the command relationship between
the two forces and the responsibilities for each. It
also establishes the control measures to be used.

Eorces that are linking up exchange as much
information as is practical before an operation.
Considerations may include-

• Eire support needed before, during, and after
the linkup.

• Recognition signals and communications
needs from both forces.

• Euture operations following the linkup.

Fire Support Considerations

Fire Support Tasks. The following are fire
support tasks in the linkup:

• Ensure all fire support personnel know the
fire control measures and recognition signals
for the linkup.

• Ensure fire support personnel are
continuously aware of the progress of the
linkup forces.

Command and Control. Centralized control is
desirable.

Fire Support Planning and Coordination. The

following are fire support planning and
coordination considerations in the linkup
operation:

Z Most planned fires are short of the REL.

• Targets beyond the REL must be cleared by
the controlling headquarters.

• Smoke and illuminating fires must not cause
adverse effects on the other friendly forces.

• Eires must ensure the enemy force between
the two friendly forces cannot escape. Use of
EASCAM maybe considered to block enemy
withdrawal.

• Indirect fire weapons are positioned to allow
them to mass fires at linkup points.

• Positions should afford easy access to routes
to be used after the linkup.

Security Operations

Description

Security missions do counterreconnaissance tasks
and prevent harassment surprise, or sabotage by

3-27

FM 6-20-50

enemy forces. Units conducting security
operations provide information about size,
composition location and direction of movement
of enemy forces. Reaction time and maneuver
space gained by this information allow the main
body to prepare and to deploy to engage the
enemy. Security operations include-

• Screening.

• Guarding.

• Covering (discussed with defensive
operations).

• Area security operations.

A screening force -

Z Maintains surveillance and gives early
warning to the main body.

• Impedes and harasses the enemy with
supporting indirect fires.

• Destroys enemy reconnaissance elements
within its capability.

A guard force does all the tasks of a screening
force and prevents enemy ground observation,
direct fire, and surprise attack. A guard force
reconnoiters, attacks, defends, and delays as
necessary to give the main body time to react or
to continue its mission. It can be conducted to
the front rear, or flanks of the main body and is
normally done within friendly field artillery
range.

Area security is normally associated with rear
battle operations. It protects units, installations,
facilities, and lines of communication from
enemy attack or sabotage and reestablishes
support capabilities.

Fire Support Considerations

Fire Support Tasks. Fire support must be h
…[truncated]

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