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B-8. At night, limited visibility fire control equipment enables the platoon to engage enemy forces at nearly the same ranges are applicable during the day. Obscurants such as dense fog, heavy smoke, and blowing sand, however, can reduce the capabilities of thermal and infrared equipment. Leaders should develop contingency plans for such extreme limited visibility conditions. Although decreased acquisition capabilities have minimal effect on area fire, point target engagements likely will occur at decreased ranges. Typically, firing positions, whether offensive or defensive, must be adjusted closer to the area or point where the platoon leader intends to focus fires. Another alternative is the use of visual or infrared illumination when there is insufficient ambient light for passive light intensification devices.

Note. Vehicles equipped with thermal sights can assist squads in detecting and engaging enemy Infantry forces in conditions such as heavy obscurants and low illumination.

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