Final answer:
A Call for Fire (CFF) is a military procedure involving ground observers who request fire support from artillery and mortar units by transmitting specific information, including target location and engagement details. The observer guides the fire support team through steps such as target identification, communication of CFF elements, and adjustments if necessary to effectively strike the target.
Step-by-step explanation:
A Call for Fire (CFF) is a procedure initiated by observers on the ground to request fire support from artillery and mortar units. It is a crucial component of modern military operations, allowing ground forces to engage targets beyond their line of sight with precision and effectiveness. The process of a Call for Fire involves transmitting specific information to a fire support team, which typically includes the target location, target description, method of engagement, and method of fire and control.
The CFF procedure can be broken down into several steps. The observer identifies the target and determines the target's location, which can be done using a map, GPS, or other targeting systems. The observer then contacts the fire direction center, communicating the elements of the CFF, which are known as the observer identification, warning order, target location, target description, method of engagement, and method of fire and control. The fire support team processes this information, calculates the firing solution, and then the appropriate fire support unit delivers the requested firepower onto the target. Throughout the engagement, the observer may adjust fire and assess the effectiveness of the strikes, providing further corrections if necessary to neutralize the target.
Efficient use of a Call for Fire is essential for achieving tactical advantages on the battlefield, contributing to the success of the mission while minimizing the risk to friendly forces and preventing unnecessary collateral damage. Proper training and execution of CFF protocols are pivotal for military personnel tasked with calling in fire support.