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10th Marines utilize digital fire direction control system

USMC News

Story Identification Number: 2003319161819
Story by Sgt. Jerad W. Alexander

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C.(March 19, 2003) -- The Marines of the 10th Marine Regiment are putting 21st century technology to use in their mission, proving that the modern generation can use their video game skills in modern war.

In spring of 2002 the "Cannon Cockers" of the 10th Marines implemented a completely digital artillery fire direction control system and continue to refine their skills in its use.

Marines using the Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System can efficiently plot and coordinate artillery batteries firing M198 155mm Howitzer guns capable of firing rounds more than 18 miles.

Before Marine fire direction control centers began using the AFATDS, all target information was passed by voice via radio. Now, they can transmit graphics, such as maps depicting friendly and enemy units, and accurate information between battalions, regiment and even division, said Master Sgt. Patrick K. Keegan, operations chief, 3rd Battalion, 10th Marines.

When a forward observer with an infantry battalion calls in artillery fire on the enemy, he uses a portable device that relays all the target coordinates back to the fire support center of his battalion, said Cpl. Shane M. Stoddard, a fire direction control Marine with 2nd Battalion, 10th Marines. The FSC then sends the information, digitally via VHF communications, to the artillery battalion directly supporting them.

"Once we get the information regarding what the target is and where it's at, we plug the information into the computer and it makes the decision as to what rounds, how many to fire, and what type of mission it is to be," he said.

After the computer makes the appropriate decisions, and is approved by the Marine operating it, the information is sent digitally to the artillery battery, who decides which guns to fire. The gun leaders receive the information digitally and read off all appropriate adjustments to the gun crews, said Stoddard.

"The system is simple to use," said Stoddard. "It's ran off a Unix based operating system with a Windows look to it, it's even got a 'Start' menu," he added.

The AFATDS can help to avoid any human-error incidents on the battlefield. Before implementing this system, Marines would call for artillery support via radio, which allows for more human error than a computer, said Staff Sgt. Christopher D. Langford, assistant operations chief, 10th Marines.

"There are times when regular voice communication goes down," he said. "This avoids any problems with that aspect."

The AFATDS; however, is not considered the sole means of handling artillery missions.

"We still maintain and utilize our radio gear in case something goes wrong with the digital equipment," said Stoddard.

The AFATDS can be started and ready to use in 10 to 15 minutes and being the size of a personal desktop computer it can be easily transported. Each artillery battalion has it's own main fire direction control center as well as a "jump" FDC in order to maintain constant contact with supported units in the event one FDC must shut down due to enemy fire, according to Stoddard.

With the AFATDS still a relatively new device in comparison to the transmitting fire support data via voice communication, Marines are becoming quick and proficient with the system.

"Everyone's still learning how to use the system, so there are some bugs to work out," said 1st Lt. Jason E. Broene, the fire direction officer of K. Battery, 3rd Bn, 10th Marines. "Otherwise, the system is a great help."