This publication is the principle reference for observed fire.
Army Techniques Publication (ATP) 3-09.30 sets forth the doctrine pertaining to the organization, equipment, mission command, operations, and provides techniques for employing fire support assets as an observer which can be applied within the framework of decisive action or unified land operations. It is applicable to any Army personnel observing for artillery or mortar fires, close air support, close combat attack, or naval surface fire support. See ATP 3-09.32 for information on close air support, close combat attack, or naval surface fire support.
This publication describes the observed fire procedures including:
- Guidance for commanders, subordinate leaders, observers, and those who are responsible for employing observers.
- Authoritative reference for personnel who—
- Develop doctrine (fundamental principles, and techniques) materiel and organization.
- Develop institutional and unit training.
- Develop standing operating procedures for fires supporting operations.
- The techniques described herein are guidelines, which remain flexible. Each situation in combat is resolved by intelligent interpretation and application of the techniques identified in this publication.
ATP 3-09.30 is organized into 7 chapters and supporting appendixes A and B.
Chapter 1 is an introduction to fire support and the relationship between maneuver and the observer for the effective accomplishment of tasks during operations.
Chapter 2 describes the responsibilities of members of the fire support team (FIST), forward observer party, and the combat observation and lasing team (COLT), and options for employing observers and guidance for selecting and occupying an observation post.
Chapter 3 describes the requirements for target location and identification by an observer in terms the shooter can understand.
Chapter 4 describes the requirements for the call for fire and the goal to send the required information to the appropriate unit rapidly, accurately, and in sufficient detail to enable the firing unit to engage the target properly.
Chapter 5 details the procedures for adjusting fire.
Chapter 6 discusses the characteristics and any special considerations or techniques required to fire special munitions.
Chapter 7 provides guidance on missions requiring special procedures for the observer.
Appendix A describes the techniques the observer can use to self locate in a non global positioning system environment.
Appendix B describes how to fill out the forms that are discussed in this manual.
This book is a “BIG” size (the size of a regular sheet of paper). This website also has the popular “mini” (half the size of a regular sheet of paper).
The binding is with coil, allowing easy flipping of pages without jamming.
The color covers are laminated for weather protection with black and white inside printing.
Also on this website is the same mini size book but in “Rite in the Rain” paper. Rite in the Rain is a patented, environmentally responsible, All-Weather Writing Paper that sheds water, allowing you to write anywhere, in any weather.
Also on this website if a “all pages laminated” mini size version.
