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Suppressing or destroying the enemy with direct fires is fundamental to success in close combat. Direct fire is inherent in maneuver, as is close combat. Small-unit leaders of the Infantry platoon must plan to focus, distribute, and shift the overwhelming mass of the platoon’s direct fire capability at critical locations and
times to succeed in combat.
Efficient and effective fire control means the platoon acquires the enemy and masses the effects of direct fires to achieve decisive results in the close fight. This appendix covers: principles of direct fire control, fire control process, direct fire planning, and direct fire control. (Refer to TC 3-20.31-4 for more information.)
Next: Section I – Principles of Direct Fire Control
Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad