Group
Use standard responses to confirm or clarify fire mission instructions then confirm readiness to fire or request further clarification if unsure.:
| Proword | Meaning |
|---|---|
| SAY AGAIN [Parameter] | Request repetition of specific data (e.g., azimuth, elevation, charge). |
Release methods determine the timing and coordination of fire across multiple guns. Each method balances speed, control, and desired effects on the target:
| Release Method | Effect |
|---|---|
| Immediate | Fastest delivery; suitable when timing is critical and coordination is less important. |
| Staggered (X seconds) | Creates a sustained impact over time; useful for suppressing or disrupting enemy actions. |
| On my command | Allows precise coordination with other effects (e.g., assault timing or synchronized fires). |
Read back and comply with the release method given by the controller.
| Release Method | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Immediate | Fire when ready once parameters are set. |
| Staggered (X seconds) | Fire in sequence from lowest to highest gun number, with X seconds between shots. |
| On my command | Wait for explicit command to fire. |
Give clear fire control commands during release phases, repeat commands as needed for safety or synchronization.
| Proword | Meaning |
|---|---|
| [Gun/Section #] FIRE | Command to fire under On My Command or Staggered release methods. |
Clear status updates from gun crews allow fire controllers to track progress, synchronize timing, and manage ammunition effectively.
Consistent use of brevity enables:
See FM/BS-1149 - Communicate within a fire support element using the correct brevity for required prowords.
Use the correct brevity within a crew/section/battery to communicate effectively:
| Proword | Meaning |
|---|---|
| [Gun #] READY | Weapon is ready to fire. |
| [Gun/Section #] SHOT | The first round has been fired. |
| [Gun/Section #] ROUNDS COMPLETE | All assigned rounds have been fired. |
Fire support elements must remain flexible and safe to accommodate changing conditions or emerging hazards. Using safety controls ensures responsive and safe fire support delivery under pressure.
Issue safety control orders to stop or repeat a fire mission in a timely manner:
| Proword | Purpose |
|---|---|
| CHECK FIRE | Immediately stops all firing for safety, pending further instruction. This warning can be given by anyone observing a safety issue. |
| CEASE LOADING | Halts further ammunition preparation while allowing already loaded rounds to be fired. |
| REPEAT | Enables rapid re-engagement of previous fire data, reducing delay in follow-up fires. |
Comply with safety control orders issued by the commander. See FM/BS-1271 - Issue safety control orders