Using man-portable launchers - UNITAF Force Manual (FM)


Group

Using man-portable launchers



FM/BG-80 - Firing from enclosures

Firing anti-tank weapons indoors can be very hazardous. Avoid doing so when possible as the backblast can kill or seriously injure you due to the restrictions of the structure.

Soft-launch weapons like the Javelin or NLAW can be safely fired out of an enclosed space, but RPGs, AT-4s, SMAWs, and other common hard-launch anti-tank weapons cannot.

FM/BS-82 - Choose an appropriate firing position

Use a firing position that provides:

  • as good of a shot as possible on the target
  • the best possible cover
  • no backblast hazard (like an enclosed space)
FM/BS-83 - Alert others of intent to fire

When preparing to make an anti-vehicle shot, quickly scan the surrounding area while loudly declaring others to "Clear backblast!". The scan is intended to give visibility on who or what may be behind the launcher and help visually verify that the backblast area is clear of friendly personnel.

FM/BS-84 - Check backblast is clear

Declare "Backblast clear!" to let the gunner know that they are able to safely fire, after clearing the danger area by visually scanning it.

FM/BS-85 - Alert and fire the rocket

Upon hearing "Backblast clear!", or having visually confirmed that the area is clear, confirm the sight picture, loudly declare "Rocket!" and then fire the weapon.

This page generated 1.07MB in 0.1728 seconds.