3-178. The following steps apply in planning and integrating indirect fires (See figure 3-24) ─
- Determine the purpose of fires.
- Determine where purpose will best be achieved.
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Establish the observation plan that includes-
- Redundancy for each target.
- Observers who will include the fire support team, as well as members of maneuver elements with direct fire support execution responsibilities.
- Establish triggers based on enemy movement rates.
- Obtain accurate target locations using organic target location devices or survey/navigational equipment.
- Refine target locations to ensure coverage of obstacles.
- Plan final protection fire.
- Request critical friendly zone for protection of maneuver elements and no-fire areas for protection of observation posts and forward positions.
Figure 3-24. Integration of direct and indirect fires
Watch the following video to learn more about indirect fires.