UNITED24 - Make a charitable donation in support of Ukraine!

Military

CHAPTER 5

TOW TRAINING PROGRAM

The TOW Training Program is a comprehensive program of required training and testing that begins with individual Skill Level 1 tasks and progresses through individual gunner qualification to squad-, section-, and platoon-level testing and verification. This process has been condensed and unified into a program that consists of 12 TOW Gunnery Tables plus a quarterly gunners' skill test. All mandatory TOW training and testing are included in this program. Additional types of TOW training, such as STXs and CO EXEVALs, will be performed with the frequency prescribed in STTAC and in the manner described in ARTEP 7-91. The unit commander must assess the training status of the individual unit to determine what additional TOW training is necessary to support the 12 mandatory training tables and must prepare his crews to pass their required testing.

SECTION I. TRAINING ASSESSMENT AND PLANNING

Differences between resources required and resources available will affect both the time required to conduct and sustain training and the unit's ability to meet the required standards. Required resources and maintenance assistance should be planned for and requested well in advance. Nothing should be left to chance, because resources will be wasted and training opportunities lost. A good program must have provisions for routine inspection of the TOW weapon systems by direct support units. Leaders must adjust the training program to meet the changing needs of the unit. (See Table 5-1 for ammunition requirements according to DA Pam 350-38.)

5-1. COMMANDER'S RESPONSIBILITY

All mandatory TOW gunnery training and testing are included in the 12 TOW Gunnery Tables plus the quarterly Gunner's Skill Test. However, the commander must still conduct an accurate assessment of the state of TOW training in his unit to determine what additional training is necessary to prepare his unit for the quarterly and semiannual tables. He must remember that his units must meet the standards outlined in DA PAM 350-38 to be certified in the training status C1, fully trained. A good assessment of training requirements and thorough planning produce an effective unit training program. To accomplish this, the commander should start early, be thorough, and be flexible and creative. All aspects of the training program should be coordinated to produce the desired results.

a. The commander should refer to FM 25-101 when developing his unit training program. This FM applies the doctrine established in FM 25-100 and assists leaders in the development and execution of training programs.

b. The heart of an effective training program is the development of a METL and the soldier tasks, leader tasks, and collective tasks that support the METL. Battle focus drives the METL development process; the METL is based on the wartime mission, and the unit must train as it plans to fight. Chapter 2 of FM 25-101 illustrates this process in clear and practical terms.

5-2. SUSTAINMENT TRAINING AND EVALUATION

As individual TOW crewmen, squads, sections and platoons become qualified, the commander should maintain that status by sustainment training and evaluation, and by crew stabilization. Personnel changes are inevitable in units. Before TOW squads lose their crew integrity and combat readiness, personnel changes should be examined in detail and alternative solutions sought where possible. Figure 5-1 is an example of a crew stability management chart used to record training milestones and qualifications.

5-3. TOW TRAINING GUIDELINES

A soldier must track all targets and perform all individual and collective tasks and battle drills discussed in this manual to become a fully trained 11H heavy antiarmor weapon system crewman. Soldier training publications and ARTEP battle drills for TOW provide tasks, conditions, and standards for combat-critical skills.

a. When a crew member becomes skilled in his job, he should be trained to do another crew member's job (cross-trained). Therefore, the loss of one crew member will not make the squad combat-ineffective.

b. Training should be conducted under realistic conditions. To properly develop combat skills, training must be conducted in a tactical environment with emphasis on the type of threat the crew can expect to face in combat.

c. Multiechelon training should be conducted to save time and resources. For example, while squads are training in crew tasks, leaders can train to execute their tactical command and control responsibilities.

d. Training should be conducted with supported units. When possible, tactical training should be conducted with the type of units to be supported in combat--infantry, mechanized infantry, and armor. TOW units must be able to interface with the units they support.

e. Training should be concentrated in areas where it is most needed. Time should not be wasted by training skills the unit and soldiers have already mastered. The trainer must know where the weak spots are and train to correct them.

f. Sections and squads will not always beat full strength. The mission in combat and in training can still be accomplished if understrength units are organized with the following rules in mind:

(1) Key leadership positions should always be filled. For example, the gunner may have to fill the position of the squad leader.

(2) The primary weapon system should always be manned. If the loader becomes a casualty, the squad leader may have to load the TOW and control the squad at the same time. If the gunner becomes a casualty, the squad leader must operate and fire the TOW.

5-4. TOW GUNNERY TABLES

The TOW Training Program consists of 12 gunnery tables plus the Gunners' Skill Test. Tables 1 through 6 and the Gunners' Skill Test must be performed quarterly. Tables 7 through 12 must be performed semiannually. (See Table 5-2 for frequency of events as required by DA Pam 350-38 STRAC.)

NOTE: The second quarterly GST should be conducted within seven days before conducting Tables 7 through 12.

Tables 1 through 4 will be performed with the Tow Gunnery Trainer (TGT). Tables 5 through 12 will be performed with the TOW Field Tactical Trainer (TFTT). The TFTT replicates the flight and performance characteristics of the TOW.

5-5. CONDUCT OF UNIT TOW TRAINING

TOW training involves individual and collective training divided into four phases. Each unit must complete these phases as required.

a. Phase 1--Individual Training.

b. Phase 2--Squad Training.

c. Phase 3--Section Training.

d. Phase 4--Platoon Training.

5-6. COLLECTIVE TRAINING

Collective training is the coordinated performance of individual skills and tasks as a team. Collective tasks are normally performed by more than one soldier.

a. Common crew task training is the first level of collective training. Common crew tasks provide the basic technical collective tasks performed by the crew to accomplish the wartime mission. These tasks tell "how to" and allow each soldier in the crew to perform his tasks. As a result, the squad leader, gunner, driver, and loader combine their learned individual technical skills to perform as one crew on their assigned vehicle.

b. The critical squad and platoon collective tasks are called battle drills. Battle drills are mostly independent of METT-T and require minimal leader actions to execute. They are standardized throughout the U.S. Army. Battle drills are in the applicable drill book for each echelon and equipment-type unit. The battle drills for antiarmor platoons are in ARTEP 7-91-Drill.

c. Common crew tasks are tasks performed by a TOW crew that are not battle drills but are performed in the same manner. An example of a common crew task is Dismount/Remount the TOW. Crew tasks are crucial to applying tactics to enhance survival and to accomplish the TOW crew's mission of providing antiarmor direct fire support to destroy the enemy.

d. Collectively, common crew tasks and battle drills form each action the crew must perform. For example, this manual discusses the common crew tasks to mount, stow, dismount, and engage a target with an M60 machine gun mounted on an ITV.

e. ARTEP training exercises are used to practice, evaluate, and sustain collective tasks and mission proficiency. They have specific goals and are modified based on METT-T factors. Exercises are structured to the availability of resources, time, and training areas. (See appropriate ARTEP for details on conducting ARTEP exercises.)

SECTION II. TOW TRAINING PHASES

The TOW training program is divided into four phases: individual training, squad training, section training, and platoon training. Phase I (individual training) consists of the Gunners' Skill Test and TOW Gunnery Tables 1 through 4. Phase II (squad training) consists of TOW Gunnery Tables 5 through 8. Phase III (section training) consists of TOW Gunnery Tables 9 and 10. Phase IV (platoon training) consists of TOW Gunnery Tables 11 and 12. (All scoring forms are located in the Blank Forms section of this manual for local reproduction.)

5-7. PHASE I: INDIVIDUAL TRAINING

Individual training covers all tasks that are performed by a single TOW crewman. These tasks include Skill Level 1 11H soldier's manual tasks and individual gunnery. They are the building blocks that form the foundation of TOW training.

a. Gunners' Skill Test. The Gunners' Skill Test comprises two parts. Part 1 (DA Form 7331-R, Figure 5-2) comprises the Skill Level 1 tasks for the TOW weapon system listed in Subject Area 16 of STP 7-11H14-SM-TG plus some additional tasks. All 11H soldiers must take this portion of the test and receive a GO on at least 70 percent of the tasks. Part 2 (DA Form 7332-R, Figure 5-3) comprises two groups of tasks taken from STP 7-11H14-SM-TG plus some additional tasks (some for HMMWV-equipped units and some for M901 ITV-equipped units). All 11H soldiers must be tested on the group of tasks that applies to the vehicle his unit is equipped with and receive a GO on at least 70 percent of those tasks. Some of the tasks are combined individual/crew tasks. Since every member of the crew must be cross trained, the combined individual/crew tasks will be performed in rotation and every member of the crew will be tested on each part. (ALL Echo units equipped with M2/M3 BTVS will not perform the combat vehicle identification task on the GST. They will conduct this task during the BGST.)

TASK: All 11H soldiers: Perform the TOW gunner's tasks listed in (1) below. All 11H soldiers in HMMWV-equipped units: Perform the TOW gunner's tasks listed in (2) below. All 11H soldiers in ITV-equipped units: Perform the TOW gunner's tasks listed in (3) below.

CONDITIONS: Testing will be hands on, with the appropriate equipment. Specific conditions will be found in the reference cited for each task.

STANDARDS: Specific standards for each task listed will be found in the appropriate reference. The overall minimum standard to receive a GO on the Gunners' Skill Test is for each individual to receive a GO on at least 70 percent of the tasks he is required to test on.

(1) The GST, Part 1 consists of the following tasks.

(a) 071-056-0004 Maintain an M220-series launcher system.

(b) 071-056-0007 Load an M220-series launcher system.

(c) 071-056-0008 Unload an M220-series launcher system.

(d) 071-056-0009 Engage targets with an M220-series launcher system.

(e) 071-056-0010 Perform immediate action for an M220-series launcher system malfunction.

(f) 071-056-0005 Conduct a system check-out on an M220A1 launcher system. (Tested only if unit is equipped with M220A1 systems.)

(g) 071-056-0013 Conduct a system check-out on an M220A2 launcher system. (Tested only if unit is equipped with M220A2 systems.)

(h) 071-056-0030 Determine M220-series launcher system firing limitations.

(i) No Task Number Identify combat vehicles. (See Appendix I.)

(j) No Task Number Determine if a target can be engaged by an M220-series launcher system. (See Chapter 6.)

(k) 071-317-0000 Prepare an antiarmor range card.

(l) No Task Number Assemble an TOW-series launcher system. (See TM 9-1425-472-12 [M220A1] or TM 9-1425-450-12 [M220A2].)

(2) The GST, Part 2 for M966 HMMWV-equipped units consists of the following tasks:

(a) 071-056-0032 Conduct dismounting and remounting of an M220A1 launcher system on an M966 vehicle (for units equipped with M220A1 only).

(b) 071-056-0034 Conduct dismounting and remounting of an M220A2 launcher system on an M966 vehicle (for units equipped with M220A2 only).

(c) No Task Number Place the M966 vehicle in the ready-to-fire configuration. (See TM 9-1425-450-12.)

(3) The GST, Part 2 for M901 ITV-equipped units consists of the following tasks:

(a) 071-056-0041 Conduct dismounting and remounting of an M220A1 launcher system on an M901 vehicle (for units equipped with M220A1 only).

(b) 071-056-0045 Conduct dismounting and remounting of an M220A2 launcher system on an M901 vehicle (for units equipped with M220A2 only).

(c) 071-034-0001 Load an M243 or M259 smoke grenade launcher.

(d) 071-034-0002 Unload an M243 or M259 smoke grenade launcher.

(e) No Task Number Mount, dismount, and remount an M60 machine gun on an M901-series vehicle. (See Chapter 4, paragraph 4-14.)

(f) 071-056-0020 Load a dual launcher while mounted on an M901-series vehicle.

(g) 071-056-0021 Unload a dual launcher while mounted on an M901-series vehicle.

(h) No Task Number Operate an M901 dual launcher using emergency action procedures. (See Chapter 4, paragraph 4-11.)

(4) The GST, Part 2 for M2/M3 BTV-equipped units consists of the following tasks:

(a) No Task Number Conduct dismounting and remounting of an M220A1 launcher system on an M2/M3 BTV (for units equipped with M220A1 only). (See Appendix J.)

(b) No Task Number Conduct dismounting and remounting of an M220A2 launcher system on an M2/M3 BTV (for units equipped with M220A2 only). (See Appendix J.)

(4) The following are the tasks, conditions, and standards for the unnumbered tasks in the Gunner's Skill Test.

TASK: Identify combat vehicles.

CONDITIONS: Given a classroom with appropriate audiovisual equipment and assorted vehicle GTAs. (See the local Training Aids Support Center for the combat vehicle slides.)

STANDARDS: Given a 12-second exposure time for each slide, the soldier must correctly identify 36 out of 40 vehicles by nomenclature as described in Appendix I.

TASK: Determine if a target can be engaged by an M220-series TOW launcher system.

CONDITIONS: In the field, given an operational, assembled M220-series TOW launcher system and tactical vehicles placed in realistic situations; or indoors, given a series of graphic presentations of target engageability situations or using the TGT.

STANDARDS: Correctly determine target engageability for the M220-series TOW launcher system in terms of range and obstructions using both the daysight tracker and nightsight as described in Chapter 6, paragraph 6-1.

TASK: Assemble an M220-series launcher system.

CONDITIONS: Given a complete but unassembled M220-series launcher.

STANDARDS: Correctly assemble an M220-series launcher system as described in TM 9-1425-472-12 (M220A1) or TM 9-1425-450-12 (M220A2) within 3 minutes.

TASK: Place the M966 HMMWV in the ready-to-fire configuration.

CONDITIONS: Given an M966 HMMWV, an M220-series TOW launcher complete, and an MSR.

STANDARDS: Correctly place the M966 in the ready-to-fire configuration as described in TM 9-1425-475-12 (M220A1) or TM 9-1425-450-12 (M220A2) within 5 minutes.

TASK: Mount, dismount, and remount an M60 machine gun on an M901-series vehicle.

CONDITIONS: Given an M901-series vehicle, an operational M60 machine gun, and an operational pintle mount.

STANDARDS: Correctly mount, dismount, and stow an M60 machine gun on an M901-series vehicle as described in Chapter 4, paragraph 4-14.

TASK: Operate an M901 dual launcher using emergency action procedures.

CONDITIONS: Given an operational M901 dual launcher.

STANDARDS: Correctly operate an M901 dual launcher using emergency action procedures as described in Chapter 4, paragraph 4-11.

TASK: Conduct dismounting and remounting of an M220A1 launcher system on an M2/M3 BTV (for units equipped with M220A1 only).

CONDITIONS: Given a complete TOW launcher, an encased missile, an M2/M3 BTV, and a TOW crew.

STANDARDS: Dismount and remount and secure the launcher and missile on the M2/M3 BTV as described in Appendix J.

TASK: Conduct dismounting and remounting of an M220A2 launcher system on an M2/M3 BTV (for units equipped with M220A2 only).

CONDITIONS: Given a complete TOW launcher, an encased missile, an M2/M3 BTV, and a TOW crew.

STANDARDS: Dismount and remount and secure the launcher and missile on the M2/M3 BTV as described in Appendix J.

b. TOW Gunnery Table 1, Individual Gunnery Practice. TOW Gunnery Table 1 consists of firing a minimum of 2 practice events (instructional firing) in preparation for actual gunner qualification on TOW Gunnery Table 2. Units will use the TGT to conduct this table.

TASK: Verify on TOW Gunnery Table 1, Individual Gunnery Practice using the TGT.

CONDITIONS: Indoors, using the TGT. The gunner will fire a minimum of two 10-shot events using the TGT. They will be selected from the events listed in Table 5-3.

STANDARDS: To verify on TOW Gunnery Table 1 and progress to TOW Gunnery Table 2, the gunner must fire at least one 10-shot event with a cumulative score of at least 625 points and at least 6 hits.

(1) Preparation of the TGT for gunner practice. The TGT is not designed for use as an outdoor trainer. Therefore, it should always be set up and used indoors. It may be used in tents or under shelter as long as it is not exposed to the elements, particularly dust or blowing sand. It may be used in either the tripod-mounted mode or in the HMMWV-mounted mode. The TGT should never be mounted on a moving HMMWV. It should be assembled and operated according to the instructions in TM 9-6920-452-10.

(2) Personnel duties. Normally, only two people at a time, the gunner and the trainer, will be involved in training with the TGT. The trainer will usually be either the squad or section leader. Other members of the squad should be occupied with concurrent training. Other gunners should not be allowed to watch during conduct of the event. Once the TGT has been assembled and warmed up, the trainer must assemble a plan group that conforms to one of the 10-shot events listed in Table 5-3. The trainer should have the TGT inspected and warmed up, and the plan group constructed before the gunner is brought in to begin engaging targets. When constructing the plan group, the trainer ensures battle sounds are ON, target size is set at 100 percent, and obscuration is set to last for 1.5 seconds for the thermal sight and for the daysight tracker. When everything is ready, the trainer should bring the gunner in and brief him before beginning the event. The briefing should include the following:

    • Safety considerations.
    • Breath control--Remind the student of proper procedures.
    • Obscuration--Tell the student the obscuration setting used.
    • Sight--Tell the student which sight he will use.
    • Special conditions--Tell the student any special conditions (multiple targets and so forth) that apply.

(3) Conduct of training. When the TGT is ready for operation, the plan group has been constructed, and the gunner has been briefed and is in place, the trainer begins conducting the table. Before the trainer starts each mission, he gives the gunner a fire command and tells him to fire when ready. During the mission, the trainer does not coach the gunner in any way. The gunner must determine when to fire and at which target. After each mission, the trainer gives the gunner the results and then proceeds to the next mission.

NOTE: The trainer has the option of thoroughly debriefing the gunner on his performance at the end of each mission or of saving all 10 missions and reviewing them after the table is complete. The trainer must remember that the TGT will only save a maximum of 20 missions at one time.

(4) Scoring. The two scoring criteria for TOW Gunnery Table 1 are total point score and number of hits. The point score for the table consists of the cumulative point score for all 10 missions. The minimum number of hits is 6 out of 10. The trainer should use DA Form 7333-R to record results (Figure 5-4).

(5) Sustainment training. Units are required to conduct monthly sustainment training. This training should not be confused with the quarterly tables. Missions for monthly sustainment training may be taken from any of the videodiscs and are chosen at the trainer's discretion. The missions in Table 5-3 should not be used for sustainment training, if possible.

c. TOW Gunnery Table 2, Individual Gunnery Qualification. TOW Gunnery Table 2 will be set up and run the same as TOW Gunnery TOW Gunnery Table 1. It will be performed with the TGT.

TASK: Qualify on TOW Gunnery Table 2, Individual Gunnery Qualification using the TGT.

CONDITIONS: Indoors using the TGT. The gunner will fire a 10-shot event selected from Table 5-3.

STANDARDS: To qualify on TOW Gunnery Table 2 and progress to TOW Gunnery Table 3, the gunner must fire one 10-shot event with a cumulative score of at least 625 points and at least 6 hits. The gunner's classification (expert, first class, second class) will be determined by the cumulative point score using the point scale as shown in Figure 5-4.

NOTE: Preparation of the TGT, personnel duties, and conduct of training are the same as for TOW Gunnery Table 1.

d. TOW Gunnery Table 3, Advanced Gunnery Practice. TOW Gunnery Table 3 (DA Form 7334-R, Figure 5-5) consists of a series of missions performed with the TGT that train and test advanced gunnery skills. These skills include determining a target's engageability, identifying targets (to include friend or foe), prioritizing targets, deciding which fire control methods to use, and engaging evasive targets that are hard to track such as helicopters, obscured targets, or extreme-range targets. Only the assigned gunners in each squad are required to verify on TOW Gunnery Table 3. (Other members of the squad may perform the table if time permits and the trainer thinks it useful.) TOW Gunnery Table 3 can only be performed with the TGT. Gunners must verify on TOW Gunnery Table 3 to progress to TOW Gunnery Table 4, Advanced Gunnery Qualification.

(1) Gunner verification on TOW Gunnery Table 3, Advanced Gunnery Practice.

TASK: Verify on Table 3, Advanced Gunnery Practice.

CONDITIONS: Indoors, using the TGT. The gunner will fire a minimum of two 10-shot events using the TGT. The 10-shot events will be selected from Table 5-4.

STANDARDS: To verify on TOW Gunnery Table 3 and progress to TOW Gunnery Table 4, the gunner must score at least 625 points. The gunner must also receive a GO on at least 6 out of 10 missions.

(2) Personnel duties. The trainer (usually the squad or section leader) sets up the TGT IAW TM 9-6920-452-10, creates the planning group for each 10-shot event, briefs the gunner, gives the fire commands for each mission, and completes DA Form 7334-R (TOW Gunnery Tables 3 and 4, Advanced Gunnery Practice and Qualification Scorecard, Figure 5-5). He also debriefs and critiques the gunner at the end of each 10-shot event.

(3) Conduct of training. Conduct of advanced gunnery training with the TGT is more complex than individual gunnery. The trainer must not only observe and record the gunner's tracking performance but also brief, observe, and score the particular advanced gunnery task that is presented in each separate mission. The trainer selects the 10-shot event from Table 5-4. The sequence of missions in each 10-shot event should be changed continuously to prevent the gunner from becoming familiar with them.

(a) Before each mission, the trainer must present afire command to the gunner that clearly states what the gunner must do. For example, if a particular mission involves prioritizing targets (such as tanks are higher priority targets than APCs), the trainer gives the command "GUNNER! TARGETS TO YOUR FRONT! ENGAGE TANKS FIRST! FIRE WHEN READY!"

(b) In some missions, the task involved may not require specific fire commands. These tasks include determining a target's engageability, engaging evasive/obscured targets, and identifying targets (to include friend or foe). When giving fire commands for these missions, the trainer need only give general instructions, such as "GUNNER! TARGETS TO YOUR FRONT! FIRE WHEN READY!"

(4) Scoring. The trainer has two criteria for scoring each of these missions: tracking and success of the mission. The trainer will record the gunner's performance on the DA Form 7334-R (Figure 5-5).

(a) Tracking score. TOW Gunnery Table 3 is scored in the same manner as TOW Gunnery Table 1 except for target identification (to include friend or foe) missions. In these missions, if the gunner correctly identifies a target as friendly and does not fire on it, he receives 100 points. If he fires on a friendly target, he receives 0 points whether he hits it or not. The total tracking score from the 10 missions (Table 5-4) determines the gunner's ranking.

(b) Successful mission score. The gunner must achieve a GO on at least 6 out of 10 missions. The requirements for a mission to be successful vary according to the advanced gunnery task that is presented in each mission. A successful mission is defined as follows:

      • The gunner successfully engages (destroys) the correct target as determined by the trainer's instructions for that particular mission. In a mission to determine a target's engageability, a hit on any target presented is scored as a success. In scenarios to prioritize targets or determine the method of fire control, the gunner must engage the correct target according to the instructions given to him in the fire command.
      • In a scenario to identify targets (including friend or foe), the gunner must not fire on friendly targets.
      • Engaging evasive/obscured targets does not require special skills or actions from the gunner. These targets are simply hard to hit. A hit on any target is scored as a successful mission.
Training Notes: 1. In the mission descriptions in Table 5-4, the term "evasive target" refers to evasive, obscured, or difficult targets and helicopters.
2. The term "target priority" refers to missions in which different types of targets are presented (such as tanks and APCs) or in which some are moving and some are stationary. (Using these differences as criteria, the trainer chooses the high priority target for the gunner.)
3. In the missions where the type of sight is listed as dual, both sights are active and the gunner may choose whichever sight he prefers for the engagement or may change sights during the engagement.
4. In the fire control missions, the trainer gives the gunner a choice of fire control methods (frontal, depth, or crossfire), and the gunner must engage the appropriate target out of the group presented.
(5) Sustainment training. Each month every 11H soldier is required to perform sustainment training on the TGT. The trainer may choose from all missions available for this training. He must remember that he is preparing his soldiers for the quarterly gunnery tables and should choose scenarios that train his soldiers in the skills and engagements in which they are weakest. Since only assigned gunners are required to perform and pass TOW Gunnery Tables 3 and 4, the trainer must be sure they are trained on the difficult advanced scenarios. Other members of his TOW crews should be trained as thoroughly as time permits and their training weaknesses require.

e. TOW Gunnery Table 4, Advanced Gunnery Qualification. TOW Gunnery Table 4 is similar to TOW Gunnery Table 3. It consists of a series of missions performed with the TGT that train and test advanced gunnery skills. Gunners will be evaluated on their ability to track and hit targets, and on their ability to perform advanced gunnery skills. These skills include determining a target's engageability, identifying targets (to include friend or foe), prioritizing target 's, choosing a method of fire control, and engaging targets that are difficult to track, such as helicopters, obscured targets, and extreme-range targets. Only assigned gunners in each squad are required to qualify on TOW Gunnery Table 4. (Other members of the squad may perform the table if time permits and the trainer thinks it useful.) TOW Gunnery Table 4 can only be performed with the TGT. Therefore, units that do not have access to the TGT are not required to perform this table. Gunners must qualify on TOW Gunnery Table 4 to progress to TOW Gunnery Table 5, Baseline TFTT Gunnery Practice.

(1) Gunners' qualification on TOW Gunnery Table 4, Advanced Gunnery Qualification.

TASK: Qualify on TOW Gunnery Table 4, Advanced Gunnery Qualification.

CONDITIONS: Indoors, using the TGT. The gunner will fire one 10-shot event using the TGT. The 10-shot event will be selected from Table 5-4.

STANDARDS: To qualify on TOW Gunnery Table 4 and progress to TOW Gunnery Table 5, the gunner must score a total of at least 625 points. The precise ranking of the gunner (Expert, 1st class, or 2d class) is determined according to the scale shown on the scorecard. In addition, the gunner must receive a GO on at least 6 out of 10 missions.

(2) Personnel duties. Personnel duties, conduct of training, and sustainment training are the same as for TOW Gunnery Table 3.

(3) Scoring. TOW Gunnery Table 4 is scored the same as TOW Gunnery Table 3. The form shown in Figure 5-5, TOW Gunnery Tables 3 and 4, Advanced Gunnery Practice and Qualification Scorecard, is used to score the table.

5-8. PHASE II: SQUAD TRAINING

Phase II begins squad-level TOW training. TOW Gunnery Tables 5 and 6 are static gunnery exercises from a baseline. TOW Gunnery Tables 7 and 8 are moving gunnery exercises where the vehicle moves from point to point on a course and engages a series of targets. These gunnery exercises are used to train and evaluate the TOW unit's combat capability. Each element has two tables: a practice table to train and a qualification table for evaluation. Each table is performed once during the day and once during the night under realistic (simulated) battlefield conditions. Point scores for target engagements are based on a combat model that predicts success based on the time from target detection to target engagement, type of target, and range to target. These scores are taken from the live-fire point calculation sheet (Figure 5-16). Point scores are also affected by crew cuts (crew cuts are crew errors, either major or minor, that reduce the point score for a target engagement). The actual rating is calculated by adding the scores for the day and night phases and dividing them by two to get an average score. During move-out scenarios, the senior trainer is normally to the rear of the leader's vehicle for evaluation and training purposes. An assistant evaluator of the appropriate rank and experience is normally assigned to each additional vehicle that is evaluated as part of the same exercise. Evaluators must monitor crew conversations and fire commands.

a. TOW Gunnery Table 5, Baseline TFTT Gunnery. TOW Gunnery Table 5 reacquaints crews with TFTT and allows them to troubleshoot the equipment. It refreshes crews on TFTT gunnery and target engagement techniques to prepare the crews for the practice and qualification tables that follow.

TASK: Conduct baseline TFTT gunnery practice (day and night).

CONDITIONS: On an MPRC or in the field, given a TOW weapon system, its organic carrier, TFTT system, M80 blast simulators, and either pop-up moving targetry or tactical vehicles equipped with TFTT retroreflector assembly, as appropriate. (Use of MILES harness and LTIDs is optional.) The table will be conducted once during daylight and once at night.

STANDARDS: To complete TOW Gunnery Table 5 and progress to TOW Gunnery Table 6, the crew must successfully install, troubleshoot and operate the TFTT system once during daylight and again at night IAW the appropriate TM. The crew must also successfully acquire, engage, and destroy 6 out of 10 targets presented in Table 5 (once during daylight and once at night).

(1) Conduct. In TOW Gunnery Table 5, the system and or carriers are set up in static positions on a baseline. A range with pop-up or moving targets equipped with TFTT retroreflectors should be used if available. (Use of MILES harness or LTIDs is optional.) If such a range is not available, tactical vehicles equipped with TFTT retroreflectors may be used. (Use of tactical vehicles equipped with MILES harness or LTIDs is optional.) The TOW systems will not move but will engage a series of moving and or pop-up targets from the baseline. TOW Gunnery Table 5 will be fired twice; once during daylight and once at night. Some of the engagements will be designated as NBC engagements and will be performed with the crew in MOPP 4.

(2) Scoring. To count as a successful engagement, the target must be killed within 30 seconds or less after exposure. Use DA Form 7335-R (TOW Gunnery Tables 5 and 6, Baseline TFTT Gunnery Practice and Qualification Scorecard, Figure 5-6) to record the crew's score (day or night).

(3) Suggested support requirements. The following support requirements are recommended when conducting TOW Gunnery Tables 5 through 8.

    • Minimum evaluators (evaluators will not assist the gunner in finding or identifying targets):

-- One evaluator per squad.

-- One evaluator in the range tower to record scores on engagements.

    • Opposing forces: None.
    • Support troops: None.
    • Vehicles/communications:

-- One CVC helmet per squad evaluator (ITV only).

-- One PRC-77/68 per squad evaluator.

-- Two PRC 77/68 for the tower evaluator (one primary, one spare).

-- Two frequencies (one for the tower and squad evaluator and one for the antiarmor squad).

    • Maneuver area:

-- Multipurpose range complex.

-- A route for the element to move from the assembly area to the first firing point without damaging the underground wiring.

    • Firing area:

-- The TOW backblast area (75 meters by 90 degrees) will be clear.

-- Smoke may be used.

    • Training aids, devices, and special equipment:

-- TFTT system.

-- Sufficient TFTT retroreflectors to cover targets. (Use of MILES harness and LTIDs is optional.)

    • Ammunition: Ten M80 blast simulators per TOW, per iteration.
    • Key references: FM 7-91, FM 23-34, and live-fire point calculation sheet.

(4) Trainer/evaluator guidelines. Because this table is conducted on an MPRC, marking the firing positions may be necessary. At night, the roads must be marked with luminous tape.

b. TOW Gunnery Table 6, Baseline TFTT Gunnery Qualification. TOW Gunnery Table 6 is conducted according to the same conditions and standards as TOW Gunnery Table 5. DA Form 7335-R (TOW Gunnery Tables 5 and 6, Baseline TFTT Gunnery Practice and Qualification Scorecard, Figure 5-6) is used to score the table.

c. TOW Gunnery Table 7, Squad Gunnery Practice. This table trains the TOW squad to engage stationary and moving targets in a simulated battlefield scenario (Figure 5-7). It prepares the TOW squad for TOW Gunnery Table 8, Squad Gunnery Qualification, by presenting engagement scenarios and task requirements similar to those for evaluation. TOW Gunnery Table 7 may be conducted by a TOW HMMWV on an MPRC light or by an ITV on an MPRC heavy without modification.

(1) Conduct. All firings will be from the hull down position. Reload procedures will be executed from a defilade position. All stationary targets should be mounted on pop-up mechanisms to facilitate target acquisition and scoring. If pop-up mechanisms are not available, exposed stationary targets will be placed in an appropriate array. If exposed targets must be used, the exercise should be designed so that targets are presented only to the position from which they should be engaged. Moving targets should be presented at speeds from 5 to 40 kph.

(2) Scoring. The squad is rated based on the total point score. For scoring gunnery, time will start for the first target when the target is raised and will stop when the target is hit. All reloads will be made from a hull defilade position. Time for the second target begins when the vehicle reoccupies the firing position and ends when the target is hit. DA Form 7336-R (TOW Gunnery Table 7, Squad Gunnery Practice Scoresheet, Figure 5-8) will be used to record scores.

(a) The table consists of five tasks. Each task consists of one or more target engagements from one firing position. Each target engagement is worth a maximum of 100 points. The point wore is determined by the time taken to kill the target using the live-fire point calculation sheet (Figure 5-16). Any crew or leader cuts are deducted from this score (Tables 5-5 and 5-6).

(b) Each task is also worth a maximum of 100 possible points. This score is calculated by adding the scores for all engagements made during the task and dividing by the number of targets engaged. For example, three targets were engaged and the scores were 75, 82, and 93 for a total of 250 points divided by 3 (the number of targets presented) for a task score of 81 points.

(c) Each table is performed once during the day and once at night. Scoring for day engagements will be made by the evaluator in the range tower. Scoring for night engagements will be made by both evaluators. The scores of the two events are added together for a maximum possible score of 1,000 points. This is the final score for the gunnery table.

NOTE: This scoring process is the same for Tables 7 through 12.

d. TOW Gunnery Table 8, Squad Gunnery Qualification. TOW Gunnery Table 8 evaluates the TOW squad on its ability to engage stationary and moving targets in a simulated battlefield scenario (Figure 5-7). The conduct, scoring, suggested support requirements, and trainer/evaluator guidelines are the same as for TOW Gunnery Table 7. The squad's scores will be recorded on DA Form 7337-R, (TOW Gunnery Table 8, Squad Qualification Scoresheet, Figure 5-9).

5-9. PHASE III: SECTION TRAINING

Phase III begins section-level TOW training. TOW Gunnery Tables 9 and 10 are moving gunnery exercises where the vehicle moves from point to point on a course and engages a series of targets. These gunnery exercises are used to train and evaluate the TOW unit's combat capability. Each element has two tables: a practice table to train and a qualification table for evaluation. Each table is performed once during the day and once during the night under realistic (simulated) battlefield conditions. Point scores for target engagements are based on a combat model that predicts success based on the time from target detection to target engagement, type of target, and range to target. These scores are taken from the live-fire point calculation sheet (Figure 5-16). Point scores are also affected by crew cuts (crew cuts are crew errors, either major or minor, that reduce the point score for a target engagement). The actual rating is calculated by adding the scores for the day and night phases and dividing them by two to get an average score. During move-out scenarios, the senior trainer is normally to the rear of the leader's vehicle for evaluation and training purposes. An assistant evaluator of the appropriate rank and experience is normally assigned to each additional vehicle that is evaluated as part of the same exercise. Evaluators must monitor crew conversations and fire commands.

a. TOW Gunnery Table 9, Section Gunnery Practice. This table trains the TOW section to control fire and distribution. It contains offensive and defensive engagements in a simulated battlefield scenario (Figure 5-10). TOW Gunnery Table 9 prepares the TOW section for the qualification table by presenting engagement scenarios and task requirements similar to those for evaluation. It may be conducted by a TOW HMMWV on an MPRC light or by an ITV on an MPRC heavy without modification.

(1) Conduct. All firings will be from the hull down position. Reload procedures will be executed from a defilade position. All stationary targets should be mounted on pop-up mechanisms to facilitate target acquisition and scoring. If pop-up mechanisms are not available, exposed stationary targets will be placed in an appropriate array. If exposed targets must be used, the exercise should be designed so that targets are presented only to the position from which they should be engaged. Moving targets should be presented at speeds from 5 to 40 kph.

(2) Scoring. The section is rated based on the total point score accumulated. For scoring gunnery, times for engagements will be scored separately for each vehicle. Start time for the section leader's vehicle will be the same as in TOW Gunnery Table 7. Start time for the squad leader's vehicle will be upon completion of the fire directive by the section leader, which will include the method of engagement. Stop time will be when the target is hit. Points will be awarded IAW the live-fire point calculation sheet (Figure 5-16). Deductions will be made from this point score when a major or minor crewcut error (Table 5-5) or a section leader cut error (Table 5-6) is made. The evaluator in the range tower will score day engagements. Both evaluators will score night engagements. DA Form 7338-R (TOW Gunnery Table 9, Section Gunnery Practice Scoresheet, Figure 5-11) will be used to record the scores.

(3) Suggested support requirements. The following support requirements are recommended when conducting TOW Gunnery Tables 9 and 10.

    • Minimum evaluators (evaluators will not assist the gunner in finding or identifying targets):

-- One evaluator per section and squad.

-- Two evaluators in the range tower to record scores on engagements.

    • Opposing forces: None.
    • Support troops: None.
    • Vehicles/communications:

-- One CVC helmet per section and squad evaluator (ITV only).

-- One PRC-77/68 per section and squad evaluator.

-- Two PRC 77/68 for the tower evaluator (one primary, one spare).

-- Two frequencies (one for the tower and section evaluator and one for the antiarmor squad).

    • Maneuver area:

-- Multipurpose range complex.

-- A route for the element to move from the assembly area to the first firing point without damaging the underground wiring.

    • Firing area:

-- The TOW backblast area (75 meters by 90 degrees) will be clear.

-- Smoke may be used.

    • Training aids, devices, and special equipment:

-- TFTT system.

-- Sufficient TFTT retroreflectors to cover the targets. (Use of MILES harness and LTIDs is optional.)

    • Ammunition: Six M80 blast simulators per TOW, per iteration.
    • Key references: FM 7-91, FM 23-34, and live-fire point calculation sheet.

(4) Trainer/evaluator guidelines. Because this table is conducted on an MPRC, marking the firing positions may be necessary. At night, the roads must be marked with luminous tape.

b. TOW Gunnery Table 10, Section Gunnery Qualification. TOW Gunnery Table 10 evaluates the TOW section on controlling fire and distribution. It contains offensive and defensive engagements in a simulated battlefield scenario (Figure 5-10). The conduct, scoring, suggested support requirements, and trainer/evaluator guidelines are the same as for TOW Gunnery Table 9. The section's scores will be recorded on DA Form 7339-R (TOW Gunnery Table 10, Section Gunnery Qualification Scoresheet, Figure 5-12).

5-10. PHASE IV: PLATOON TRAINING

Phase IV begins platoon-level TOW training. TOW Gunnery Tables 11 and 12 are moving gunnery exercises where the vehicle moves from point to point on a course and engages a series of targets. These gunnery exercises are used to train and evaluate the TOW unit's combat capability. Each element has two tables: a practice table to train and a qualification table for evaluation. Each table is performed once during the day and once during the night under realistic (simulated) battlefield conditions. Point scores for target engagements are based on a combat model that predicts success based on the time from target detection to target engagement, type of target, and range to target. These scores are taken from the live-fire point calculation sheet (Figure 5-16). Point scores are also affected by crew cuts (crew cuts are crew errors, either major or minor, that reduce the point score for a target engagement). The actual rating is calculated by adding the scores for the day and night phases and dividing them by two to get an average score. During move-out scenarios, the senior trainer is normally to the rear of the leader's vehicle for evaluation and training purposes. An assistant evaluator of the appropriate rank and experience is normally assigned to each additional vehicle that is evaluated as part of the same exercise. Evaluators must monitor crew conversations and fire commands.

a. TOW Gunnery Table 11, Platoon Gunnery Practice. This table trains the TOW platoon to control fire and distribution. It contains offensive and defensive engagements in a simulated battlefield scenario (Figure 5-13). TOW Gunnery Table 11 prepares the TOW platoon for the qualification table by presenting engagement scenarios and task requirements similar to those for evaluation. It may be conducted by a TOW HMMWV on an MPRC light or by an ITV on an MPRC heavy without modification.

(1) Conduct. All firings will be from the hull down position. Reload procedures will be executed from a defilade position. All stationary targets should be mounted on pop-up mechanisms to facilitate target acquisition and scoring. If pop-up mechanisms are not available, exposed stationary targets will be placed in an appropriate array. If exposed targets must be used, the exercise should be designed so that targets are presented only to the position from which they should be engaged. Moving targets should be presented at speeds from 5 to 40 kph.

(2) Scoring. The platoon is rated based on the total point score accumulated. For scoring gunnery, times for engagements will be scored separately for each vehicle. Start time will begin upon completion of the directive given to the vehicle commander. Stop time will be when the target is hit. Points will be awarded IAW the live-fire point calculation sheet (Figure 5-16). Deductions will be made from this point score when a major or minor crew cut error (Table 5-5) or a platoon leader cut error (Table 5-7) is made. The evaluator in the range tower will score day engagements. Both evaluators will score night engagements. DA Form 7340-R (TOW Gunnery Table 11, Platoon Gunnery Practice Scoresheet, Figure 5-14) will be used to record the scores.

(3) Suggested support requirements. The following support requirements are recommended when conducting TOW Gunnery Tables 11 and 12.

    • Minimum evaluators (evaluators will not assist the gunner in finding or identifying targets):

-- One evaluator per platoon, section, and squad.

-- Two evaluators in the range tower to record scores on engagements.

    • Opposing forces: None.
    • Support troops: None.
    • Vehicles/communications:

-- One CVC helmet per platoon, section, and squad evaluator (ITV only).

-- One PRC-77/68 per platoon, section, and squad evaluator.

-- TWO PRC 77/68 for the tower evaluator (one primary, one spare).

-- Two frequencies (one for the tower and platoon evaluator and one for the antiarmor platoon).

    • Maneuver area:

-- Multipurpose range complex.

-- A route for the element to move from the assembly area to the first firing point without damaging the underground wiring.

    • Firing area:

-- The TOW backblast area (75 meters by 90 degrees) will be clear.

-- Smoke may be used.

    • Training aids, devices, and special equipment:

-- TFTT system.

-- Sufficient TFTT retroreflectors to cover the targets. (Use of MILES harness and LTIDs is optional.)

    • Ammunition: Six M80 blast simulators per TOW, per iteration.
    • Key references: FM 7-91, FM 23-34, and live-fire point calculation sheet.

(4) Trainer/evaluator guidelines. Because this table is conducted on an MPRC, marking the firing positions may be necessary. At night, the roads must be marked with luminous tape.

b. TOW Gunnery Table 12, Platoon Gunnery Qualification. TOW. Gunnery Table 12 evaluates the TOW platoon on controlling fire and distribution. It contains offensive and defensive engagements in a simulated battlefield scenario (Figure 5-13). The conduct, scoring, suggested support requirements, and trainer/evaluator guidelines are the same as for TOW Gunnery Table 11. The platoon's scores will be recorded on DA Form 7341-R (TOW Gunnery Table 12, Platoon Gunnery Qualification Scoresheet, Figure 5-15).

5-11. FIELD TRACKING

Field tracking (or tracking in a field environment) provides practice and experience in tracking uncooperative targets and should be performed in conjunction with FTXs. It is not an element in the 12 required TOW Gunnery Tables, but it is useful in preparing for them, especially tables 7 through 12. Other tactical employment tasks, such as occupying a firing position or completing a range card, should be performed at the same time. Careful planning by unit commanders will result in effective training that makes the best use of time, equipment, and personnel.

a. The tracking range should include an area more than 3,000 meters deep and at least 500 meters wide with hills and valleys, dead space, and covered terrain. Battlefield target conditions should be simulated as follows:

(1) Targets should be a variety of tanks, APCs, and other tactical vehicles. Many training installations now have various types of actual threat vehicles. These vehicles should be used when possible.

(2) Target vehicles should behave as much like real enemy vehicles on the battlefield as possible. They should change directions constantly and quickly (to include backing up for short distances) and should vary their speed. They should move within the gunner's sight picture from left to right, top to bottom, and bottom to top. The vehicles should move at angles to and from the weapon position as well as directly toward and away from the weapon.

(3) Gunners should see tanks and APCs in full and partial frontal, flank, and rear exposures.

(4) Gunners must engage the targets at all ranges with both the daysight tracker and the nightsight. To do so, they must be able to determine if a target is in range. Targets should move in and out of range so gunners can gain experience in target range determination.

(5) Armored vehicles should limit their exposure by moving quickly from one covered area to another to escape ATGM fires. The squad leader must have the gunner acquire and fire at the target while it is exposed. During field tracking, target vehicle exposure time is reduced to a minimum by having targets use covered areas during halts. This gives the gunner experience in tracking targets that disappear and reappear.

b. Field tracking should be performed under conditions that normally occur on the battlefield. These conditions include limited visibility caused by darkness, smoke, or fog; the discomfort of MOPP gear; and the noise and distraction caused by indirect and small-arms fire around the firing positions. Battlefield tracking conditions should be simulated as follows:

(1) The TOW crew members should train to engage targets during reduced visibility conditions using both the daysight tracker and the nightsight. Training should be conducted during daylight using the AN/TAS-4A. The AN/TAS-4A is a thermal sight, not just a nightsight. It offers many advantages in searching for and tracking targets in all kinds of weather and at any time of day. The AN/TAS-4A should be used extensively in conjunction with the day sight to maximize the abilities of the system.

(2) Enemy capabilities include the use of nuclear, biological, and chemical munitions. These munitions may not affect the weapon, but a gunner's ability to track will be degraded if he has never tracked while wearing a protective mask and protective clothing. Training is more realistic when the entire crew wears protective masks and clothing during part of the field tracking exercises.

(3) The enemy will try to suppress TOW fires with artillery and mortar fires. A gunner's ability to keep the sight cross hairs on a target may be affected under these conditions, especially if he has not been properly trained. Distracters should be used in training to accustom gunners to such conditions and to minimize flinching. Grenade and artillery simulators are effective distracters. Small-arms fire can also be expected, but gunners should not be seriously distracted by its noise. Therefore, the simulation of small-arms fire is not required.

c. If facilities and equipment are not available to conduct a field tracking exercise, gunners should be allowed to track any uncooperative targets such as military or civilian vehicles traveling on a nearby highway. An y means available should be used to allow gunners to practice tracking targets that vary target speeds and directions of movement. This should be done often and can be accomplished in any location that has vehicle traffic.

d. TOW crews must be proficient in combat vehicle identification to gain the most benefit from field tracking. Combat vehicle identification skills have been standardized by GTA 17-2-11. This GTA includes six modules of 35-mm slides and instructor guides. Each module highlights five different NATO or Threat combat vehicles from five different views: frontal, right side, left side, right oblique, and left oblique.



NEWSLETTER
Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list