A-52: Observation and Fields of Fire

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(FM 3-21.8 The infantry Rifle platoon & squad)

A-52. The leader identifies locations along each avenue of approach providing clear observation and fields of fire for both the attacker and defender. He analyzes the area surrounding key terrain, objectives, engagement area, and obstacles. He locates intervisibility lines (ridges or horizons which can hide equipment or personnel from observation). He assesses the ability of the attacking force to overwatch or support movement (with direct fire). An intervisibility line analysis enables the leader to visualize the profile view of terrain when only a topographic product (map) is provided.

A-53. In analyzing fields of fire, he considers the friendly and enemy potential to cover avenues of approach and key terrain, in particular, with direct fires. He also identifies positions where artillery observers can call for indirect fire. The observer must observe both the impact and effects of indirect fires. He analyzes if vegetation will affect the employment or trajectory of the Javelin, or 60-mm mortars. It can do this by masking the target or by reducing overhead clearance. When possible, the observer conducts a ground reconnaissance from both enemy and friendly perspectives. He might do it personally, by map, or with his subordinate units, or he can use the assets and information provided by the battalion reconnaissance platoon. This reconnaissance helps him to see the ground objectively and to see how it will affect both forces.

A-54. Offensive considerations in analyzing observation and fields of fire include:

Are clear observation and fields of fire available on or near the objective for enemy observers and weapon systems?
Where can the enemy concentrate fires?
Where will the enemy be unable to concentrate fires?
Where is the enemy vulnerable?
Where can I support the movement of a friendly force with mortar, medium machine gun, or Javelin?
Where can friendly forces conduct support by fire or assault by fire?
Where are the natural target registration points?
Where do I position indirect fire observers?

A-55. Defensive considerations in analyzing observation and fields of fire:

What locations have clear observation and fields of fire along enemy avenues of approach?
Where will the enemy establish firing lines or support-by-fire positions?
Where will I be unable to mass fires?
Where is the dead space in my area of operations? Where am I vulnerable?
Where are the natural target registration points?
Where can I destroy the enemy? Can I observe and fire on his location with at least two-thirds of my combat power?
How obvious are these positions to the enemy?
Where do I position indirect fire observers?

Next: A-56: Cover and Concealment

Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad

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