UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

THE BASIC SCHOOL

MARINE CORPS TRAINING COMMAND
CAMP BARRETT, VIRGINIA 22134-5019

PRINCIPLES OF
FIRE SUPPORT
B2C2437
STUDENT HANDOUT

Basic Officers Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Principles of Fire Support

Introduction The purpose of this instruction is to provide you with a basic

understanding of the different fire support assets (air,
artillery, mortars, and naval surface fire support) available
to support the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF), as
well as the capabilities and limitations of these weapons
systems.

Importance Fire support as defined in Joint Publication 1-02 is the

application of fires that directly support land, maritime,
amphibious, and special operations forces to engage the
enemy forces, combat formations, and facilities in pursuit of
tactical and operational objectives.

In This Lesson We will discuss the capabilities and limitations of the fire
support assets available to you in the Marine Corps. They
include: 60mm Mortars, 81mm Mortars, 120mm Mortars,
155mm Artillery, HIMARS, Naval Surface Fire Support, and
Aviation assets.

This lesson covers the following topics:

Topic Page
M224 60mm Mortar 5
M252 81mm Mortar 7
120mm Mortar 8
Mortar Capabilities and Limitations 10
Marine Corps Artillery 12
Artillery Weapons Systems 13
Artillery Organization 16
Ammunition 20
Naval Surface Fire Support 23
Marine Aviation Ordnance 27
Aircraft Capabilities 36
Summary 43
References 44
Glossary of Terms and Acronyms 44
Notes 45

2 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Principles of Fire Support (Continued)

Learning Objectives Terminal Learning Objectives

0302-FSPT-1300 Given a scheme of maneuver, fire

support available, and commander's intent, develop a fire
support plan to support the ground scheme of maneuver in
accordance with the commander's intent.

0302-FSPT-1302 Given a radio, call signs, frequencies,

available supporting arms, equipment, a scheme of
maneuver, and a commander's intent, employ supporting
arms to achieve desired effect(s) on target that support(s)
the ground scheme of maneuver.

Enabling Learning Objectives

0302-FSPT-1300a Without the aid of reference, identify fire

support asset capabilities without error.

0302-FSPT-1302a Given a radio, call signs, frequencies,

available supporting arms, a target, a scheme of maneuver,
and a commander's intent, determine fire support available
to achieve desired effect(s) on target.

0302-FSPT-1302b Given a radio, call signs, frequencies, a

target, a scheme of maneuver, planned supporting arms,
and a commander's intent, position observer(s) to observe
the target in support of the scheme of maneuver.

0302-FSPT-1302c Given a radio, call signs, frequencies,

available supporting arms, equipment, a scheme of
maneuver, and a commander's intent, integrate supporting
arms to achieve a combined arms effect.

0302-FSPT-1302d Without the aid references, describe

command relationships without omission.

0302-FSPT-1302e Without the aid of reference, describe

the three types of terminal control used to employ close air
support aircraft without omission.

0302-FSPT-1302f Without the aid of reference, describe

conditions required to clear an aircraft to release ordnance
without omission.

3 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

0302-FSPT-1302g Without the aid of reference, describe

the capabilities of mortars without omission.

0302-FSPT-1302h Without the aid of reference, describe

the structure of the 60mm mortar section in the weapons
platoon without omission.

0302-FSPT-1302i Without the aid of reference, describe the

structure of the 81mm mortar platoon in the weapons
company without omission.

0302-FSPT-1302j Without the aid of reference, describe the

capabilities of the Shoulder Mounted Anti-Armor Weapon
(SMAW) without omission.

0302-FSPT-1302k Without the aid of reference, describe

the structure of the assault section in the weapons platoon
without omission.

0302-FSPT-1302l Without the aid of reference, describe the

capabilities of anti-armor weapons without omission.

0302-FSPT-1302m Without the aid of reference, describe

the structure of the anti-armor platoon in the weapons
company without omission.

4 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

M224 60mm Mortars

The M224 60mm mortar is a smooth bore, muzzle loaded, high angle of fire
weapon (see diagram below). Three M224 mortars make up a mortar section,
which is organic only to an infantry rifle company. It can be fired from either a
drop fire mode (conventional method) or trigger fire mode (conventional or hand-
held method). A lightweight auxiliary base plate is used when firing the mortar in
the hand-held mode. It can be fired in a direct lay mode or through the use of a
fire direction center (FDC).

5 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

M224 60mm Mortars (Continued)

60mm Mortar Section

Organization Weight

• One section
o Section leader – Sergeant
0341 Weight in
Item
• Three squads each with Pounds
o One M224
o Three Marines Cannon M225 14.4
− Squad leader/Gunner –
Corporal 0341
Bipod M170 15.2
− Assistant gunner – Lance
Corporal 0341
− Ammunition man – Sight M64 2.5
Private First Class/Private
0341 Base plate M7 14.4

**Base plate M8 3.6

Conventional
46.5
mode

**Handheld mode 18.0

Max Range 3,500m

ECR 30m

6 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

M252 81mm Mortars

The M252 81mm medium extended range mortar (see diagram below) is a crew-served,
smooth bore, muzzle loaded, high angle of fire weapon system. It is designed to be
fired in the indirect fire mode, cannot be fired handheld, and normally utilizes a FDC.
The M252 is highly accurate up to ranges of 4500m to 5700m depending on the
munition. A blast attenuation device (BAD) is attached to the muzzle of the cannon
assembly to reduce the blast effects on the mortar crew. The M252 is ideally suited to
support light infantry forces.

7 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

M252 81 mm Mortars (Continued)

81mm Platoon Organization

Organization Weight
• Platoon HQ
o Platoon commander – First Weight in
Item
Lieutenant 0302 Pounds
o Platoon Sergeant – Gunnery Cannon M252 35
sergeant 0848/0369
o Ammo technician – Lance Mount M177 27
Corporal 2311
o Ammo man/driver – Private First Base plate M3A1 25.5
Class 0341
• Two sections (four squads per Sight M64A1 2.25
section)
o Section leader – Staff Sergeant Total weight 89
0369
o Two ammo men – Lance Max Range 5,700m
Corporals 0341
ECR 35m
o Plotter – Sergeant 0341
o Plotter/recorder – Corporal 0341
o Recorder/driver – Lance Corporal
0341
o Two forward observers –
Corporals 0341
• Eight squads each with
o One M252
o Six Marines
− Squad Leader – Sergeant
0341
− Gunner – Corporal 0341
− Assistant gunner – Lance
Corporal 0341
− Three ammo men – Privates
0341

8 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

M327 120mm Mortars (EFSS)

M327 mortar equipped units will provide all-weather, ground-based, close

supporting, accurate, immediately responsive, and lethal indirect fires in support of the
Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF). The M327 mortar is capable of successfully
engaging a spectrum of potential point and area targets, including motorized, light
armored, and dismounted personnel targets, command and control systems, and
indirect fire systems. M327 mortar fires will disrupt, degrade, or destroy as much of the
threat force capabilities as possible prior to the initiation of the direct fire engagement
and provide accurate, lethal, close-in fires throughout the duration of the engagement.
As a critical element of the ground fires triad, the M327 mortar will afford the MAGTF
commander increased flexibility in tailoring his fire support systems to support the
scheme of maneuver. M327 mortar equipped units are well suited for missions requiring
speed, tactical agility, and vertical transportability.

9 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

M327 120 mm Mortars (Continued)

Weight in
Item
Pounds
Cannon M327 295

Undercarriage 734

Base plate 502

Mortar Stool 70

Total weight 1,601

Max Range 8,135m

ECR 45m

10 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Mortar Capabilities and Limitations

Mortar Capabilities
Capability Description
The maximum (30 rds/min) and sustained (20) rds/min for
60mm; 15 rds/min for 81mm) rates of fire allow both mortar
High volume of fire
systems to provide a considerable amount of ammunition in
support of maneuver forces.
Highly responsive The location of the mortar systems closer to the supporting
asset units equates to faster response time.

Both mortar systems are light enough to be hand carried, if

Light, mobile, and
necessary, and can be employed in a variety of positions on
flexible
the ground.
Mortars can be positioned on the ground to take advantage
of protection by terrain; for example, behind a hill mass or in
Fires from and into
a dry riverbed. Conversely, mortars’ inherent high angle fire
defilade
capability allows them to engage targets located in defilade
positions.
The 60mm and 81mm mortar are organic assets within the
CO’s “hip pocket Marine rifle battalion thus increasing their knowledge of the
artillery” maneuver unit’s experience and capabilities due to habitual
working relationships.

Mortar Limitations
Limitation Description
The high angle nature of fire for the mortar contributes to
their longer time of flight for the round to reach the target
Long time of flight
area. This also makes the mortar system more susceptible
to direction-finding radar.
Due to the maximum and sustained rates of fire, mortars
expend more ammunition. A smaller effective casualty
Ammunition
radius requires both systems to use a greater number of
consumption
rounds to accomplish the same mission as compared to
other fire support systems.
The shorter range of both mortar systems require the tubes
to move closer to the engagement areas whenever
Multiple
maneuver units reach beyond the range of their mortars.
displacements
During their movement, mortars have a limited capability to
employ their systems to supporting units.

11 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Mortar Capabilities and Limitations (Continued)

Conclusion. The mortars are a crew-served weapon system, which can be found in
Marine infantry companies and battalions, except for the 120mm mortar system that
belongs to the artillery community. It is a muzzle-loaded, smooth-bored, all weather
capable weapon system that Marines can carry and disassemble. In the weapons
platoon of an infantry rifle company are three 60mm mortar systems. In the weapons
company of the infantry battalion are eight 81mm mortar systems. A Light Armored
Reconnaissance (LAR) Battalion also possesses eight 81mm Mortar systems. Mortars
are capable of firing a wide variety of ammunition. Due to their increased
responsiveness and the fact that they belong to the maneuver commander, mortars are
often referred to as the “CO’s hip pocket artillery.”

12 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Marine Corps Artillery

Generating combat power in support of maneuver at the decisive time and place
achieves victory on the battlefield.

Mission. The mission of Marine artillery is to:

• Integrate and deliver lethal and non-lethal fires to enable joint and
maneuver commanders to dominate their operational environment across
the spectrum of operations.

Artillery conducts three key tasks to accomplish their mission.

• The primary task: to provide close and continuous fire support to the
maneuver units. Fire support is provided day or night and in all weather
conditions.
• Artillery gives depth to the battlefield. Weapons with ranges of 20+
kilometers have the ability to:

o Attack reserves and assembly areas.

o Interdict supply lines.
o Disrupt the enemy’s command and control facilities.

• Deliver counter fire within the range of our weapon systems to ensure
freedom of movement for ground forces.

13 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Artillery Weapons Systems

M777A2 155mm Towed Howitzer.

Characteristic Data
Weight of weapon Roughly 10,000 pounds
18,100 meters
Range
30,100 meters with rocket assisted projectile (RAP)
Maximum rate of fire 5 rounds per minute
Sustained rate of fire 2 rounds per minute
Ammunition available Standard 155mm ammunition

14 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Artillery Weapons Systems (Continued)

HIMARS
Characteristic Data
Weight of weapon 32520 pounds
Range 30,000 meters
Maximum rate of fire N/A
Sustained rate of fire N/A
Ammunition available M31 (HE) & M48 (ATACMS)

15 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Artillery HIMARS Ammunition

Shell Description
• 200 lb HE warhead (PD or Delay fuze capable)
M31 • GPS aided
• Range: 15-70 km
• Accuracy: 3m from target
• 500 lb unitary warhead
M48 ATACMS • Range: 70 – 300 km
• Accuracy: 8m from target

16 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Artillery Organization

The three active duty artillery regiments and one artillery regiment in the reserve
structure are the:

• 10th Marines within the 2nd Marine Division. **Fully fielded with 120mm
• 11th Marines within the 1st Marine Division.**(1) HIMARS BN
• 12th Marines within the 3rd Marine Division.
• 14th Marines (the reserve artillery regiment), an element of the 4th Marine
Division (the Reserve Division). **(1) HIMARS BN
The 10th and 11th Marines each have four battalions and a headquarters battery. The
12th Marines has one artillery battalion and a headquarters battery.

Artillery Battalion. The battalion, the basic tactical unit for the artillery, contains:
One headquarters battery and three firing batteries (six howitzers in each battery; 18
howitzers in the battalion).

Headquarters Battery. The headquarters battery provides the equipment and

personnel to assist the battalion commander in controlling and supporting the battalion.

Firing Battery. Three firing batteries in each artillery battalion each

• Is commanded by a Captain (0802).
• Has six howitzer sections (with one howitzer in each section).
• Has one FDC that
o Exercises technical and tactical fire control for the battery.
o Communicates with higher headquarters and the supported unit.
• Has a battery headquarters element which contains these sections
o Communication.
o Motor transport.
o Medical.
o Liaison. The liaison officer (LNO) is an 0802 Lieutenant. The section
provides artillery liaison personnel to operate (with equipment) with the
Fire Support Coordination Center (FSCC) of the supported unit.
o Forward observer (FO) teams. Company fire support teams of the
supported maneuver battalion. Each FO team consists of:
 An FO (0802 lieutenant)
 A scout observer (0861)
 One or two radio operators (0621)

17 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Artillery Organization (Continued)

• Firing Team. Regardless of the organization and equipment, the mission of any
indirect fire unit remains the same: “to put steel on target as quickly as possible.”
Accomplishing this goal requires a three-part team (whether the team is artillery,
mortars, naval surface fire support, or any other indirect firing organization):

o The observer —“eyes”

o The FDC — “brain”
o The howitzer section — “muscle”

The Observer — “Eyes.” The FO teams and the liaison section provide the link
between the maneuver unit and the supporting artillery. The FO will locate and
identify targets for the battery or battalion to engage. The liaison officer will
assist the infantry battalion FSC in coordination and planning of artillery support.
The FOs and LNO “see” the battlefield and feed information to the FDC.

The FDC — “Brain.” The FDC is the brain of the battery. The information gained
by the “eyes” is fed here. The fire direction officer (FDO) is responsible for the
FDC. Upon hearing the call for fire, the FDO issues a fire order to the FDC. The
FDC takes the rough information obtained from the “eyes” and calculates firing
data for the howitzer. Data is then sent to the gun line.

The Howitzer section — “Muscle.” The gun line is the muscle. The howitzer
section applies the data to the gun and delivers “steel” to the target. The section
chief (0811 Staff Sergeant), responsible for the howitzer section, ensures that the
correct fuze, fuze setting, round, charge, deflection, and quadrant are fired.

18 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Artillery Organization (Continued)

Artillery Capabilities and Limitation.

The tables below describe the capabilities and limitations of artillery.
Capability Description
Maneuvering fires • Can shift fire from one target to another without
displacing (physically moving)
• This responsiveness allows close integration with
maneuvers
Massing fires • Despite extensive dispersion between batteries and
battalions, different units can simultaneously engage
one target or a group of targets (two or more targets
fired simultaneously)
• Whenever possible, artillery battalion will mass its
batteries to have greater effect
o 18 rounds landing at the same time causes greater
damage and more casualties than 18 rounds
landing six at a time, 20 seconds apart
Surprise fires • Fires delivered without adjustment, thereby allowing
for greater effect
• To be effective, an accurate target location must be
given or known
All weather • Artillery is not limited by visibility or weather conditions
capability • Is an all weather, 24-hour supporting arm
Fires from and into • Artillery can be positioned on the ground to take
defilade advantage of protection provided by terrain, for
example
o Behind a hill mass
o In riverbed
• Conversely, by using high angle fire, artillery is able to
engage targets located in a defilade position
Rapid displacement Artillery is able to move rapidly from one position to
another

Limitation Description
Reduced • A battery cannot shoot while displacing unless it
effectiveness conducts a “hip shoot” (the hasty, unplanned
occupation of a firing position)
• Battery is most vulnerable when on the move
Poor terrain Broken or rough terrain
• Limits mobility
• Slows the displacement of batteries
• May limit dispersion between howitzers
Close combat Battery’s support is degraded when defending its own
position

19 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Artillery Organization (Continued)

Limitation Description (Continued)

(Continued)
Air attack • Artillery is extremely vulnerable to air attack while
displacing
• Movement or dust clouds are easily detected from
the air
Ammunition/logistics Artillery units must have uninterrupted supply of
burden ammunition to provide continuous fire support
• One MTVR, 7-ton truck (with M105 trailer) can carry
120 complete 155mm rounds (projectile, powder, and
fuze)
• A battalion can fire the equivalent of one truckload of
ammunition every minute
Inability to support • Artillery will be on ship or en route to the beach
the initial phase of an during the initial phase of the amphibious assault
amphibious • Naval gunfire and air must provide initial support
operation
Communication • To provide support, effective communication must be
maintained
• Communication is often the Achilles heel of any
operation due to the
o Dispersion between units
o Terrain
o Weather
o Enemy interference
Counter battery If the enemy possesses counter battery radar, they can
radar • Track the projectiles
• Determine their origin
• Return fire

Conclusion. Marine artillery provides all-weather fire support to maneuver

commanders and is capable of firing in the direct and indirect fire modes. Supporting
units can depend on the M198 155mm towed howitzer to provide the added weight to
any operation. The organization of Marine artillery provides the MAGTF commanders
with flexibility. Three firing batteries plus one headquarters battery in the artillery offer
constant support, firing a multitude of ammunition ranging from HE to the Copperhead
laser guided projectile. The FO (eyes), FDC (brains), and gun line (muscle) all furnish
maneuver units’ lethality up to 30,100 meters.

20 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Ammunition
Projectiles 60mm 81mm 120mm 155mm EFFECTS
Filled with Composition B
and TNT. Designed to
destroy or inflict casualties
HE (High on personnel or light skinned
Explosive) X X X X vehicles

Designed for screening,

obscuring, incendiary
(refueling stations), and
signaling/marking. HE/WP is
optimal if there are vehicles
WP (White refueling (HE for the vehicles
Phosphorus) X X X X and WP for the fuel).

Same as WP except it
produces gray smoke that
billows faster and provides a
RP (Red more widespread smoke
Phosphorus) X X screen
Illuminates battlefield and
Illumination X (40 sec) X (60 sec) X (120 sec) X (120 sec) used for signaling/marking
Illuminates battlefield and
IR Illumination X X X X seen through night vision

Provides 5 to 15 minutes of
smoke. Uses 116 felt
wedges impregnated with
WP for rapid dissemination.
Designed for screening /
M825 Smoke obscuring (optimal) but not
(WP) X for marking
HE / Rocket A rocket motor allows the
Assisted Projectile HE projectile to carry up to
(RAP) X 30,100 KM.

Base ejecting type projectile

that contains 88 dual
purpose armor defeating
and antipersonnel grenades.
Improvised **ICM can produce duds.
conventional Used against heavy armored
munition (ICM) X vehicles.

21 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Ammunition (continued)
Fuzes 60mm 81mm 120mm 155mm EFFECTS

Functions on impact. HE/Q

and/or PD is effective
against personnel and light
Point Detonating skinned vehicles.
(PD) or Quick (Q) X X X X

Causes the projectile to

detonate .05 secs after
impact (5m-15m). Opttimally
used with HE, and HE/D is
used mostly against
enemies with overhead
cover. Also used in heavily
wooded areas, and times
where you want to minimize
shrapnel on the battlefield
(friendly troops in the
Delay (D) X X X X maneuver).
Radio activated and
functions when it receives
the reflection of a self-
transmitted radio signal.
Height of burst 0-3 ft (NSB)
or 3-13 ft (Prox). HE / Prox
and/or NSB is optimal
Proximity (Prox) / against personnel in the
Near Surface open without overhead
Burst (NSB) X X cover.

Radio activated and

functions when it receives
the reflection of a self-
transmitted radio signal. VT
has a 7m height of burst and
HE/VT is optimal against
Variable Time personnel in the open w/out
(VT) X overhead cover.
Used with WP, Illum, and
Time X X HE

22 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Naval Surface Fire Support

Three Missions of Naval Surface Fire Support (NSFS). NSFS ships exist to support
the assault of an objective by destroying or neutralizing:

• Shore installations that oppose the approach of ships and aircraft (Normally an
advance force will split from the main amphibious task force (ATF) body to
accomplish tasks in advance of the main force arrival. This advance force
normally will include NSFS ships.)
• Defenses that oppose the:
o Actual landing of the landing force
o And to provide support for the advance of the landing force ashore

Ships Capable of Providing NSFS. A number of types and classes of ships can fire in
support of land operations. Each of these classes of ship will have its own peculiarities
and characteristics based on its:

• Configuration
• Primary mission
• Weapons systems
The types of ships that provide NSFS are
• Destroyers (DD)
• Guided missile destroyers (DDG)
• Guided missile cruisers (CG)

Although there are many classes of ships, there are only a few types of gun mounts and
computer systems, each of which implies certain capabilities.

Guided Missile Cruisers. The Ticonderoga class guided missile cruisers perform
primarily in a battle force role. These ships are

• Multi-mission surface combatants.

• Capable of supporting carrier battle groups, amphibious forces, or operating
independently.
• Armed with two 5”/54 gun mounts to support the landing force.

Destroyers. These NSFS platforms are capable of supporting

• Carrier battle groups.

• Surface action groups.
• Amphibious groups.
• Replenishment groups.

The Arleigh Burke class destroyer has one 5”/54 gun mount; the Spruance class has
two 5”/54 gun mounts.

23 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Naval Surface Fire Support (Continued)

MK-45 5”/54. The MK-45 is a 54-caliber, lightweight gun that provides surface
combatants accurate naval gunfire against

• Fast, highly maneuverable surface targets

• Air threats
• Shore targets during amphibious operations

The MK-45 is controlled by the MK 86 gun fire control system that allows the ship to
engage targets while moving. The capabilities of the MK-45 are listed in the table
below.

Capability Measurement
Minimum range 910 meters
Maximum range 23,000 meters
Maximum rate of fire 40 rounds/minute
Sustained rate of fire 20 rounds/minute

NSFS Capabilities. To ensure that NSFS ships can provide effective support to a
landing force, a planner must have a good foundation in the characteristics of NSFS.
The capabilities and limitations should be considered both when planning and adjusting
NSFS. These capabilities and limitations are actually a set of related characteristics
that can be liabilities in one situation and enhancements in another.
• Mobility. Ships can maneuver in the water to position themselves to best
support the landing force. Many limitations that will be discussed later can be
overcome by planning to take advantage of the ship’s mobility. Ships are also
able to maneuver to defend themselves against attack.

• Accuracy. The gunfire control systems (GFCS) available can place accurate
fires on a target from a ship underway, allowing the simultaneous engagement of
two targets.

• Variety of Ammunition. The types of projectiles and fuzes available are very
similar to those found in the firing battery. The projectiles include
o HE.
o WP.
o Illumination.
• High Initial Velocity. NSFS is particularly suited for destroying hardened and
fortified targets where penetration is necessary before damage can occur. If the
target presents a vertical surface to the gun-target line (GTL), this characteristic
is enhanced. The muzzle velocity of Naval guns firing full charge is 2650 feet per
second (f/s). An M16A2 assault rifle is3250 f/s.
An artillery piece firing an intermediate charge is about 1200 f/s.
The ballistic characteristics of NSFS more closely resemble those of an assault
rifle than a howitzer.

24 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Naval Surface Fire Support (Continued)

NSFS Capabilities. (Continued)

• Narrow, Accurate Deflection Pattern. The high muzzle velocity causes a very
accurate deviation dispersion pattern along the GTL, which allows very close
placement of fires to maneuver units when the GTL parallels their positions.

• High Rate of Fire. The rapid rates of fire for each gun mount are made possible
by power hoisting and loading equipment. When engaging personnel-type
targets, where reaction time degrades ammunition effectiveness (because
personnel seek protection), this high rate of fire is significant for maximizing
effects on target.

NSFS Limitations. Many of the NSFS limitations are simply the same characteristics
that are capabilities, but studied from a different perspective. Careful, detailed planning
can reduce or eliminate the impact of these limitations on combat operations.

• Effects of Hydrography. Shoals, minefields, and reefs limit the maneuverability

of the ship. Shallow waters may force the ship to stand farther from the beach
than would be optimal. The ability to position ships for most effective support is
reduced if the areas in which the ships can maneuver are restricted.

• Fixing Ship’s Position. To provide accurate initial salvos, the ship must
determine its location. Both radar and visual means are used to triangulate the
ship’s position at various times and establish a “track.” If the beach is relatively
featureless, the ship will have difficulty locating itself precisely enough to provide
good fire support. Then AN/UPN-32 and AN/PPN-19 radar beacons can be used
to give the ship a fixed reference point.

• Effects of Weather and Visibility. NSFS must be observed for maximum

effectiveness. If weather conditions are such that
spotters are unable to observe the impact of rounds or the targets, most of the
rounds fired may have no damaging effect on their intended targets. Additionally,
if the ship is relying on visual navigational aids and the weather interferes with
visibility, the ship will encounter difficulty fixing its position. A radar beacon can
be used to provide a reference point to minimize this problem. Ships cannot
provide effective support in excessively stormy weather. Rolls in excess of 15
degrees stress the gun mount stabilizers beyond their design parameters.

• Changing GTL. When the ship is maneuvering, the GTL will slowly change.
This change may become an important consideration when friendly forces begin
to fall along the GTL. A long-range dispersion pattern on the GTL could become
a hazard to troops.

25 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Naval Surface Fire Support (Continued)

NSFS Limitations. Changing GTL (Continued)

During the Okinawa campaign in World War II, the Marines were quite successful in
overcoming this problem with careful planning. NSFS plans were made such that a
series of fire support areas (FSAs) were assigned and placed in an on-call status. As
the troops ashore maneuvered to a position where the GTL endangered the forces, the
ships were ordered to the next assigned FSA, maintaining a parallel GTL-friendly front
line relationship.

• Long Range Pattern. Naval guns produce most of their error as a range
dispersion pattern oriented along the GTL. When firing with full charge on flat
ground, NSFS will be rather difficult to adjust onto point targets because of the
large range dispersion. Firing reduced charge can minimize the range
dispersion, at the cost of some accuracy in deflection. Adjusting with several
salvos per adjustment can assist in the adjustment phase to place a mean point
of impact onto the target.

• Flat Trajectory. While the high velocity is desirable for giving NSFS its
penetrating qualities, the high velocity also creates the flat trajectory that can
make the engagement of some targets in defilade impossible. Unlike artillery,
naval guns cannot “cut” the charge. Only two powder increments are available:
full and reduced charge. When using the reduced charge, the angle of fall is
increased, allowing fires to reach some defilade positions, but the range of the
weapon is greatly decreased.

• Magazine Capacity is Limited. When the ships are shot dry, a re-supply must
be arranged. Careful planning can minimize the impact of ships’ non-availability
for tactical missions.

For example, a general support (GS) ship could be assigned to an interim DS role while
the DS ship is off station. Ships should undergo replenishment before a major attack.
Planners should be aware that a certain percentage of ammunition would be reserved
for defense of the ship.

When compared to artillery, the limitation of ammunition availability is minor. A typical

NSFS ship will carry about 600 5”rounds per mount. If proper planning has been
accomplished, re-supply ships will be available. A support ship can steam out, link up
with the re-supply vessel, re-supply, and be back on station within 4 to 6 hours.

26 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Naval Surface Fire Support (Continued)

• Communications. Communications is the major limitation of NSFS. Radio is

the only means of communication, and the nets are subject
to interference both man-generated and atmospheric. Without communications,
the only NSFS will be of the preplanned, scheduled variety. Using alternate
frequencies or relaying calls for fire via alternate nets can minimize
communication problems.

Conclusion. Naval surface fire support provides maneuver commanders a responsive

asset during amphibious landings and continuing operations ashore. The 5”-54 gun
system offers flexibility to commanders by providing fires at ranges up to 23,000 meters
using an assortment of ammunition. Successful integration of naval surface fires with
maneuver units involves planning early and continuously. Maneuver commanders who
employ naval surface fire support provide a unique added dimension to their operations.

27 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Marine Aviation Ordnance

Aircraft carry four general categories of ordnance:

• Bombs
• Missiles
• Rockets
• Guns

Aircraft can employ a vast array of weapons (ordnance designed to kill or destroy). We
are only going to cover those most likely to be employed by Marine Corps aircraft in a
Close Air Support (CAS) type of environment. As such, weapons used to shoot down
other aircraft, penetrate through tens of feet of hardened concrete or mountain side, or
those that split or merge atoms are not going to be covered here.

The type weapon or system used will depend on the

• Mission
• Method of delivery
• Desired results

28 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Marine Aviation Ordnance (Continued)

To exploit the full capabilities of any weapon or system, we must understand some
basic nomenclature and what options are available. In general, weapons kill and
destroy in the following three ways:

• Heat (Flame and/or temperature)

• Blast (Concussion)
• Fragmentation (Projectile)

General Purpose, High Explosive Bombs.

• MK-80 Series Bombs. The MK-80 series of bombs is the most widely
used weapon in the inventory and is in the “dumb bomb” category. Dumb
bombs are not precision guided munitions and are only influenced by
gravity and wind once the ordinance is released. About 45 to 50 percent
of bomb weight is explosive. General-purpose (GP) bombs use all three
weapon-kill mechanisms. The blast and heat effects are greater than any
other conventional ordnance weapons. Consideration must be given to
the size of the fragmentation envelope for enemy and friendly ground and
air assets.

Mk-80 Series Bomb

The series consists of the
• Mk-82 = 500lb bomb
• Mk-83 = 1000lb bomb
• Mk-84 = 2000lb bomb

29 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Marine Aviation Ordnance (Continued)

Fuzing. Fuzing has a significant impact on the weapons effect. Fuzes control the

• Arming delay (time from release to armed)

• Functioning delay (time of detonation with respect to impact).

The types of fuzes for MK-80 series bombs are

• Mechanical, which are very reliable

• Electrical, which offer a wide variety of features and pilot selectable
options

Generally, all other weapons types have only one fuse available.

The three functioning modes are:

• Delay. Increases the penetration effects. The longer the delay, the
greater the penetration. Use on targets that require penetration. The
delay on electrical fuzes is pilot selectable in flight. Electrical fuzes can
use a hardened steel nose plug to allow greater hard target penetration.

• Instantaneous. Amplify heat and fragmentation. Use on targets that have

no major protection. Electrical fuzes offer a much quicker response time
in this mode. This produces a distinct tactical advantage when maximum
fragmentation and minimum cratering are required.

• Proximity. VT amplifies fragmentation. VT fuzes produce an air burst. VT

elements are only available on electrical fuzes.

Laser-Guided Bombs (LGBs). LGBs combine GP and penetration warheads with

guidance packages and control fin assemblies to provide a free-fall weapon capable of
limited maneuverability after release from the delivering platform. The guidance
package consists of a laser spot seeker that identifies laser energy and uses it to guide
to the point of impact. Small canards located immediately behind the seeker head are
moved in response to guidance inputs to keep the laser energy centered in the seeker
field of view. It is important to understand that laser-guided bombs are designed to
minimize minor deviations in the planned delivery. Delivering platforms are still required
to meet precise release parameters to ensure that the weapon’s seeker is able to
initially acquire the laser energy reflected from the target.

30 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Marine Aviation Ordnance (Continued)

Guided Bomb Units (GBUs). GBUs are guidance kits attached to the bomb body of
MK-82, 83, or 84 bombs, which allow the bomb body to be “guided” to the target. This
guidance can come in several different forms:

• Mk-82 + LASER GUIDANCE PACKAGE = GBU-12

• Mk-83 + LASER GUIDANCE PACKAGE = GBU-16
• Mk-84 + LASER GUIDANCE PACKAGE = GBU-10

LGB Employment Considerations. The most important planning factor for LGB
employment is the need to reflect laser energy off the intended target. A laser spot can
be provided

• By the delivering platform (self-lazing)

• From an accompanying aircraft (buddy lazing)
• By a ground-based laser system

Careful consideration must be given to the effects of weather, terrain, and laser line-of-
sight to ensure that obstacles do not come between the laser source and the target.

An LGB has no ability to differentiate between the laser source and the reflected energy
from the target, so it is critical to consider the location of a ground-based laser team in
relation to the weapon delivery axis.

LGB Advantages and Disadvantages

• The primary advantage of LGBs is the accuracy with which they can be
employed. With LGBs, fewer weapons and aircraft are required to
achieve the desired level of damage.
• Disadvantages include the need for laser designation of the target and
degradation by weather or other obscurants.

Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM). JDAM is really more of a guidance package
than an individual weapon. By placing the JDAM inertial navigation system (INS)/Global
Positioning System (GPS) guidance assembly on a conventional Mk-82/83/84 bomb,
the resulting weapon can provide precision guidance like an LGB but does not require a
laser designator. Since each JDAM can be programmed with separate target
coordinates, multiple targets can be hit on a single pass. By strapping a GPS kit onto a
GP bomb body, the number of bombs needed to destroy or neutralize a target is
reduced. This group of weapons includes the
• Mk-82 + GPS GUIDANCE PACKAGE = GBU-38
• Mk-83 + GPS GUIDANCE PACKAGE = GBU-32
• Mk-84 + GPS GUIDANCE PACKAGE = GBU-31

31 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Marine Aviation Ordnance (Continued)

JDAM (Continued)
The figure below shows the strakes and JDAM tail kit that make up a JDAM
weapon.

Mk-80 series bomb body

JDAM Advantages and Disadvantages. The reliability of the weapon is the best among
PGMs. With hundreds of test drops, only one case of a weapon that didn’t guide has
been recorded. The problem is getting the correct coordinates into the weapon.
Weather is not a factor to the weapon. It doesn’t need daylight, a good infrared (IR)
signature, or clear skies to guide to the target. The need for the target to be stationary
is a requirement for JDAM use.

Fire Bombs
MK-77 Firebomb. The MK-77 Firebomb is the primary firebomb. It is filled with
75 gallons of fuel/gel mixture and weighs 520 lbs. Ground patterns vary greatly
depending on A/C dive angle, airspeed and altitude, but the typical pattern is
elliptical in shape about 215 ft long and 75 ft wide.

Fuel Air Explosive (FAE). The CBU-72 FAE is a free-fall unguided weapon. It
contains three FAE bombs. It is effective

• Against personnel, light material targets, mines, and booby traps

• For clearing landing zones

The explosive force comes from the detonation of the fuel, which forms an
aerosol cloud on impact. When detonated, the resulting over pressure produces
target destruction. The total weight of the weapon is only 520 lbs., but the
explosive overpressure of each of the three FAE bombs is equal to a MK-82.
The F/A-18 or the AV-8 can deliver FAE.

32 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Marine Aviation Ordnance (Continued)

Cluster Bomb Unit (CBUs). CBUs consist of a bomb casing filled with many smaller
munitions. These munitions include antipersonnel, anti-material, and antitank weapons.
The CBU systems provide high kill or damage probability against area, moving, and
point targets.

MK-20 Rockeye. The MK-20 is optimized for use against area, armored targets. It is
effective against
• Tanks
• Trucks
• Radar vans
• Missile sites
• Fuel storage tanks
• Surface ships

The MK-20 consists of a dispenser, a mechanical time fuse that opens the
dispenser at a selected time, and 247 MK-118 bomblets. The MK-118 has a
small, shaped-charge warhead that can penetrate six inches of armor plate.
Each bomblet has two fuzes:
• One that will set off the shaped charge if it hits a very hard object
• One that will produce fragmentation effects if the bomblet hits soft material
The Rockeye can be employed from all United States (US) attack jets.

Combined Effects Munitions (CEM) (CBU-87). The CBU-87 (CEM) has improved
effects in incendiary, fragmentation, and armor piercing capabilities. It consists of 202
bomblets in each container.

WARNING. Cluster munitions have an associated high dud rate. If the scheme
of maneuver will require friendly forces to transit areas previously saturated,
personnel should be warned of the hazard and move by vehicle through cleared
areas if possible.

33 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Marine Aviation Ordnance (Continued)

Air To Surface Guided Missiles.

AGM-65 Maverick Missile. Used against armor and high value point targets.
The Maverick is a LASER guided missile. Ranges for this missile can exceed
12NM. It has a 125-pound shaped-charge warhead designed to kill armor or
other point targets. The Maverick is used by the F/A-18 and AV-8.

AGM-65 Maverick Missile

AGM-114 Hellfire Missile
Hellfire is a solid propellant, laser-guided, anti-armor missile that utilizes multiple
warheads. A shaped-charge warhead is most common and can penetrate any
known, fielded tank in the world. The Hellfire can also be fitted with a blast-
fragmentation warhead, utilized against softer targets or buildings and a
thermobaric warhead that utilizes overpressure to destroy targets in confined
spaces such as caves, buildings, and ships. The AGM-114 provides pinpoint
accuracy from a safe standoff distance. The AH-1W can carry the Hellfire.
Hellfire has also been employed recently from the Predator Unmanned aerial
vehicle (UAV). The Hellfire provides the AH-1W with the ability to engage
multiple targets, offers increased standoff and lethality, and minimizes risk to
aircrew by reducing or eliminating exposure time. The engagement range for the
AGM-114 is 500-8000m.

AGM-114 Hellfire Missile

34 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Marine Aviation Ordnance (Continued)

BGM-71 TOW Missile. TOW stands for tube-launched, optically-tracked, wire-

guided missile. The TOW is a guided anti-armor missile that utilizes a shaped-
charge warhead. The only aircraft that can fire the TOW missile is the AH-1W.
The TOW offers point-of-aim, point-of-impact capability via a joystick and
crosshair sights in the cockpit. Due to the requirement for the pilot to track the
missile until impact, excessive exposure time can result at extended ranges. The
engagement range for the BGM-71 is 500-3750m.

BGM-71 TOW

Rockets

2.75 Inch Rockets. The US Navy originally developed the 2.75-inch folding-fin
aerial rocket (FFAR) for use as a free-flight aerial rocket in the late 1940s. Used
during both the Korean and Vietnam wars, their role has expanded to include air-
to-ground, ground-to-air, and ground-to-ground. The 2.75 inch rocket system
has a rich history of providing close air support to ground forces. The 2.75-inch
rocket can be fitted with multiple warheads for use in support of ground forces.
HE, WP, and illumination are commonly used. The 2.75-inch rockets can also be
fitted with a flechette warhead. The flechette warhead expels 2200 60-grain
“nails” that cover an 80m x 80m area. The 2.75-inch HE rockets have an
effective casualty radius (ECR) of 35m, similar to that of an 81mm mortar.

5-Inch “Zuni” Rockets. The Zuni rocket is simply a larger version of the “Mighty
Mouse.” As a fire support weapon, 5-inch rockets are primarily fitted with a HE
warhead. Zuni rockets have an ECR of 50m, similar to that of a 155mm artillery
round.

35 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Marine Aviation Ordnance (Continued)

Guns
GAU-12 25mm. The GAU-12 25mm six-barrel gun pod is mounted on the
centerline of the AV-8B Harrier. It has a 300 round capacity with a lead
computing optical sight system (LCOSS) gunsight. The Harrier uses a 25mm
depleted uranium [DU] round in the GAU-12 Gatling gun.

M61A1 “Vulcan” Cannon. The M61A1 utilized by F/A-18 aircraft is a 6-barreled

weapon, with selectable rates of fire of either 4000 or 6000 rounds per minute.
The F/A-18 has a capacity of 578 rounds of 20mm linkless ammunition. The
gun's rate of fire, essentially 100 rounds per second, gives the pilot a shot density
that will enable a "kill" when fired in one-second bursts. This high rate of fire
maximizes its air-to-air kill capability, but this system is also highly effective
against soft targets in the air-to-ground mode.

M197 20mm Turret System. The M197 utilized by the AH-1W aircraft is a
lightweight, three-barrel Gatling type gun. The M-197 is mated to an ammunition
storage and handling system that has a capacity of 750 rounds of linked
ammunition. The M197 automatic gun has a firing rate of 650 rpm. Utilizing the
PGU-28 semi-armor piercing, high-explosive incendiary (SAPHEI) round, the gun
is highly effective against both lightly armored and soft targets.

GAU-16 50 CAL. This gun can be loaded in the door of assault support
helicopters such as the UH-1N. It provides medium-range suppressive fire at a
cyclic rate of 750-850 rpm. The gun can use either open iron sights or a laser
pointer sight for use with Night Vision Goggles (NVG).

GAU-17 “Minigun”. The GAU-17/A utilized on the UH-1N is a crew served, 6

barreled weapon, with a rate of fire of either 2000 or 4000 rounds per minute. In
the UH-1N DAS configuration, the gun can be fixed forward and remotely fired by
the pilot. The ammunition storage system has a capacity of 4000 rounds of
linked 7.62mm percussion primed ammunition.

M240E. The M240E is simply an M240G medium machinegun modified to be

fired from the door of the UH-1N. It fires 200 rpm at the rapid rate and a normal
load out of 1000 rounds of 7.62mm.

36 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Aircraft Capabilities

AH-1W Supercobra
• A maximum speed of 130 to 150 knots fully loaded
• Time on station from take-off to landing generally 1 + 45

Night Operations. All weapons on the AH-1W can be operated at night. The
introduction of the night targeting system (NTS) aircraft enhances this capability.
The NTS brings autonomous laser operations, forward looking infrared (FLIR),
and laser range-finding to the battlefield. In addition, an extremely accurate
GPS/INS system ties into the NTS to allow for 10-digit grid accuracy for targets.

Ordnance Knowledge
• Can carry 750 rounds of 20mm ammunition
• Fires 650 rounds a minute
• Has 2.75” rockets in 7-shot and 19-shot pods
• Has 5.0” rockets in 4-shot pods
• Can carry up to four Hellfire or TOW on either outside station
Table below describes the ordnance for the AH-1W.

Munition Type/Range Fuzes Suitable For

(Common
Name)
HE frag • 2.75” rocket/2500m • Impact • Area targets
• 5” rocket/3000m • Proximity • Personnel in the open
• VT • Light-skinned vehicles
• Suppression
Flechette (2200 2.75” rocket/1200 to 1500m • Time • Personnel
small darts) • Motor • Thin-skinned vehicles
burnout
Illumination 2.75” rocket/3500m Time • Illumination
o 1,000,000
candlepower for 100
seconds (per rocket)
• Marking
Smoke (white • 2.25” rocket/2500m Impact • Marking
phosphorous/red • 5”rocket/3000m • POL/fuel ignition
phosphorous)
HE GP 5” rocket/3000m Impact • Concrete bunkers
• Surface vessels
• Light armored targets
• Buildings
• Personnel

37 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Aircraft Capabilities (Continued)

Table below describes the precision-guided munitions for the AH-1W.

Munition Min/Max Range Suitable For

AGM-114 500m/8000m • Armor/all types
Hellfire
• Guided on reflected • High value targets
laser energy
• Shaped-Charge • Bunkers
Warhead
BGM-71 Wire guided • Armor
TOW 500/3750 • Bunkers
• Point targets
• Vehicles

Table below describes the munitions for the AH-1W 20mm cannon

Munition Range Suitable For

PGU-28/B SAPHEI 2000m • Aircraft
• Light armor
• Personnel

AV-8B Harrier
• Maximum speed is 585 knots at sea level
• Normal ordnance delivery speed is 420 to 480 knots
• Time on station after 30-minute transit is 20 to 40 minutes

Night Operations. All weapons on the AV-8B can be operated at night. The
introduction of the LITENING II Pod enhances this capability. The LITENING
pod brings autonomous laser operations, FLIR, laser range-finding, and IR
pointer to the battlefield. In addition, an extremely accurate GPS/INS system ties
into the LITENING pod to allow for 10-digit grid accuracy for targets.

Ordnance Loads and Profiles. If aircraft requires vertical takeoff (LHA/LHD),

ordnance loads are reduced. The following table lists ordnance considerations
for the AV-8B.

38 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Aircraft Capabilities (Continued)

AV-8B
Harrier

Air-to- • 25mm cannon gun pod

Ground o 300 rounds
• Cluster bombs
Weapons
o Rockeye (antipersonnel, antitank)
o APAM (antipersonnel, anti-material)
• MK-82, 83
o General purpose bombs
o 500, 1000 pounds
• GBU-12, 16
o Laser guided variants of MK-80 series bombs
• GBU-38, 32 (JDAM)
o GPS-guided variants of Mk-80 series bombs
• 2.75” and 5” rockets
• AGM-65 Maverick (laser guided antitank missile)
• Mk-77 Napalm
Special • APG-65 radar
Purpose o Same radar as F/A-18
o Increases weapons delivery accuracy
Equipment
• GPS
o Extremely accurate
• LITENING II Pod– used for
o Nighttime navigation
o Night attack
o When combined with GPS, can provide 10-digit grid to target
• Laser spot tracker (LST)
o Detects laser energy directed on target from external source

F/A-18 Hornet
• Maximum speed is 550 knots at sea level
• Normal ordnance delivery speed is 480 to 540 knots
• Time on station after 30-minute transit is 30 to 55 minutes

Night Operations. All weapons on the F/A-18 can be operated at night. The
introduction of the LITENING II Pod enhances this capability. The LITENING
pod brings autonomous laser operations, FLIR, laser range-finding, and IR
pointer to the battlefield. In addition, an extremely accurate GPS/INS system ties
into the LITENING pod to allow for 10-digit grid accuracy for targets.

Ordnance Loads and Profiles. Four to eight 1000-pound bombs will be normal
air-to-ground ordnance with either one or two external fuel tanks.

39 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Aircraft Capabilities (Continued)

The table below lists ordnance for the F/A-18.

Air-to- • 20mm cannon – 578 rounds
Ground • Cluster bombs
Weapons o Rockeye (antipersonnel, antitank)
• MK-82, 83, 84 (500, 1000, 2000 pound)
o General purpose bombs
• GBU-12, 16, 10 (500, 1000, 2000 pound)
o Laser guided variants of MK-80 series bombs
• 2.75” rockets primarily used for forward air controller-airborne
(FAC(A)) missions with WP rounds
• 5” rockets
• AGM-65 Maverick (laser guided antitank missile),
• MK-77 Napalm
• GBU-38, 31, 32 (JDAM) (500, 1000, 2000 pound)
o GPS-guided variants of Mk-80 series bombs
Special • LITENING II Pod– used for
Purpose o Nighttime navigation
Pods o Night attack
o When combined with GPS, can provide 10-digit grid to target
• FLIR – slewable to track and laser designate targets
• Laser spot tracker/strike camera (LST/SCAM)
o Front half of pod detects laser energy from external source
(FAC)
o Rear of pod has 35mm camera that photographs target before,
during, and after weapons impact)

Aircraft Capabilities Charts. Table lists capabilities for types of Aircraft.

F/A-18 A/C and F/A-18D
Crew 1 and 2, respectively
Performance • Maximum level speed at sea level: 550 KIAS
• Typical delivery speed: 500 KIAS
• Time on station after 30-minute transit: 40 to 45 minutes
Payload • 13,700 lbs
• Air-to-ground: MK-80 Series/LGBs/JDAM, 2.75"/5" rockets,
MK-20, CBU-78, MK-77, Maverick
Sensors/Self- LITENING II Pod
Protection • NVG
• LST
• Laser (Self) Designator
Comm/Navigation • Two UHF (AM/FM)
• Two VHF (AM/FM)
• Radar

40 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Aircraft Capabilities (Continued)

AV-8B
Crew 1
Performance • Maximum level speed at sea level: 500 KIAS
• Typical delivery speed: 500 KIAS
• Time on station after 30-min transit: 20 to 40 minutes
Payload • 8,000 lbs
• Air-to-ground: MK-80 Series/LGBs/JDAM, 2.75"/5" rockets,
MK-20, CBU-/78, MK-77, Maverick
Sensors/Self- • Radar
Protection • LITENING II Pod
• NVG
• Laser Spot Tracker
Comm/Navigation • Two UHF (AM/FM)
• Two VHF (AM/FM)
AH-1
Crew 2
Performance • Maximum speed: 190 KIAS
• Cruise speed: 130 KIAS
• Time on station after 30-min transit: 45 to 55 minutes
Payload • Hellfire
• TOW
• 2.7"/5" Rockets
• 20mm turret gun
Sensors/Self- • FLIR via NTS
Protection • ALE-39
• Infrared radiation counter-measure
• Laser designator

Comm/Navigation • Two UHF (AM/FM)

• Two VHF (AM/FM)
UH-1
Crew 2 pilots, 2 crewchief/gunners
Performance • Maximum speed: 130 KIAS
• Cruise speed: 100 KIAS
• Time on station after 30-min transit: 30 to 50 minutes
Payload • 1,400 to 1,800 pounds
• 6 to 13 pax, 6 litters
• 7.62mm (GAU-17, M240E)
• .50 caliber guns (GAU-16)
• 2.75" rockets
Sensors/Self-Protection • BRITESTAR FLIR w/ laser designator
Comm/Navigation • UHF/VHF/HF

41 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Aircraft Capabilities (Continued)

Capabilities

Battlefield Utility. Ground force commanders request CAS to augment organic

supporting fires. CAS is used to attack the enemy in a majority of weather
conditions, day or night. When CAS is properly employed, commanders can
focus its firepower at the decisive time and place to achieve tactical objectives.
Advances in tactics, techniques and procedures (TTP) and equipment have
improved the ability of aircraft to provide close support. By using CAS,
commanders can take full advantage of battlefield opportunities. The three-
dimensional mobility of aircraft provides commanders with the means to strike
the enemy swiftly and unexpectedly.

CAS Integration. CAS is integrated with other available supporting fires to

support maneuver forces allowing the commander to mass fires. Whether
conducting offensive or defensive operations, commanders plan for CAS at key
points throughout the depth of the battlefield. The MAGTF commander
establishes the priority for the assignment of CAS, so it supports his intent and
concept of operations. Commensurate with other mission requirements, the
Aviation Combat Element (ACE) commander postures aviation assets to optimize
support to requesting units.

Range. CAS aircraft have the ability to deliver ordnance over the horizon, well
beyond the range of surface-based fires. Refueling assets either on the ground
or airborne can further increase aircraft range and weapons payload.

Maneuverability/Flexibility. CAS aircraft allow the attack of targets that other

supporting arms may not be able to effectively engage because of limiting
factors, such as type of target, the terrain, or the friendly ground scheme of
maneuver. Aircraft can quickly adjust onto new targets of opportunity in a quickly
changing battle space.

Speed/Shock/Surprise. Aircraft can get to the fight quickly, surprise the enemy
from any direction, and drop large amounts of high explosive munitions on a
target.

Shipboard Employment. CAS aircraft can be employed from carrier-based or

amphibious shipping to provide support for movement ashore and inland when
other surface-based fire support assets are unavailable.

Responsiveness. CAS aircraft on station can quickly acquire and engage

targets on the battlefield in a more timely manner than surface-based fire support
assets.

42 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Aircraft Capabilities (Continued)

Limitations

Weather. Bad weather can severely limit or preclude CAS operations. If fixed-
or rotary-wing CAS aircraft cannot visually acquire the target area due to severe
weather or poor visibility, they will be unable to safely deliver their ordnance. The
FAC must also be able to visually acquire the aircraft in order to give clearance
for ordnance delivery.
Time on Station. CAS support will be limited to how long an aircraft can remain
on station. If aircraft must fly from far-away bases without en-route refueling
assets, their time on station as well as the amount of ordnance they can carry to
the fight will be reduced.
Vulnerability to Air/Ground Attack. CAS aircraft are vulnerable to enemy
surface/air attack. These threats must be suppressed or eliminated for the
proper delivery of ordnance as well as the protection of vital warfighting assets.

Conclusion. Maneuver commanders should be familiar with the employment of aircraft

in support of the ground combat element (GCE) scheme of maneuver. The shock,
surprise, and combat power that can be brought to bear when integrating surface fires
with air underscore our tactical nature as a maneuver force. Our ability to act as a self-
contained, self-supported combat force enables us to seize and maintain the initiative in
the attack. The speed and responsiveness of CAS aircraft on the battlefield grants the
maneuver commander momentum and flexibility. The use of air power allows the
supported unit to shape the battle space in the close fight as well as deep into the
enemy-held territory.

43 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Summary

The fundamental principles of our combined arms philosophy centers on the massing of
fires, both surface and air, to destroy the enemy’s will and ability to fight.

References

Reference Number or Reference Title

Author
Joint Publication 1-02 DOD Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms
FMFM 2-7 Fire Support in MAGTF Operations
FMFM 6-18.1 TTPs for the Marine Corps Fire Support System
FMFM 6-9 Marine Artillery Support
FM 7-90 Tactical Employment of Mortars
MCWP 3-23 Offensive Air Support
MCWP 3-23.1 Close Air Support

44 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Glossary of Terms and Acronyms

Term or Acronym Definition or Identification

ACE Aviation combat element
ADAM Area denial artillery munitions
APAM Antipersonnel, anti-material
ATF Amphibious task force
BAD Blast attenuation device
CAS Close air support
CBU Cluster bomb unit
CEM Combined effects munitions
CG Guided missile cruiser
CLGP (or copperhead) Cannon launched guided projectile
DD Destroyer
DDG Guided missile destroyer
DP Dual purpose
DU Depleted uranium
ECR Effective casualty radius
FAC(A) Forward air controller (airborne)
FAE Fuel air explosive
FASCAM Family of scatterable mines
FDC Fire direction center
FDO Fire direction officer
FFAR Folding-fin aerial rocket
FLIR Forward looking infrared
FO Forward observer
FSA Fire support area
FSC Fire support coordinator
FSCC Fire support coordination center
GBU Guided bomb unit
GCE Ground combat element
GFCS Gunfire control systems
GP General purpose
GPS Global positioning system
GTL Gun-target line
GS General support
HE High explosive
ICM Improved conventional munitions
INS Inertial navigation system
IR Infrared
JDAM Joint direct attack munitions
LAR Light Armored Reconnaissance
LCOSS Lead computing optical sight system
LGB Laser guided bomb
LNO Liaison Officer
LST Laser spot tracker
MAGTF Marine Air Ground Task Force
NSFS Naval Surface Fire Support

45 Basic Officer Course

B2C2437 Principles of Fire Support

Glossary of Terms and Acronyms (Continued)

Term or Acronym Definition or Identification

NTS Night targeting system
NVG Night vision goggles
RAAMS Remote anti-armor mine system
RAP Rocket-assisted projectile
SAPHEI Semi-armor piercing high-explosive incendiary
TOW Tube-launched, optically tracked, wire-guided
TTP Tactics, techniques and procedures
UAV Unmanned aerial vehicle
US United States
VT Variable time
WP White phosphorous

Notes

46 Basic Officer Course