APPENDIX I

LAUNCHER SECTION EVALUATION
AND TRAINING

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Scope

This appendix is an evaluation and training guide for the launcher sections of an MLRS firing battery. It is generic in scope and can be modified by the commander to meet local requirements and incorporate elements of the unit METL. It may be administered as follows:

• Formally or informally.
• With minimal administrative support.
• In the local training area.
• In a non-firing, tactical environment.

Purpose

The evaluation is a performance test of the skills that are essential to successful accomplishment of the mission of the launcher section. Although many of the tasks are evaluated on the basis of individual performance, the evaluation in fact measures the ability of the section to function as a team. The evaluation can be used as follows:

• To evaluate the current state of proficiency of the section.
• As a competitive evaluation to determine relative competence.
• As a basis for a training program in preparation for a formal battery or battalion training evaluation.
• As a supplement to performance oriented training.

The tasks should be used as training vehicles. As much time as possible should be devoted to controlled practice of a task. The sections should practice each task to acquire the degree of proficiency required by the standards set forth in the evaluation.

Conduct of the Evaluation

This evaluation examines the ability of the section chief to organize and train his personnel into a cohesive, effective fighting unit. It consists of five phases.

Phase I is an orientation and organization period beginning with a statement of the purpose, scope, and description of the evaluation. During Phase I, a written test will be administered. This phase should be conducted in a classroom at least a day prior to Phases II-V.

Phase II involves preparation in an assembly area for movement to an OPAREA and occupation of a hide area (HA).

Phase III covers the occupation of a hide area (HA) and selection of a firing point (FP) to include update, operational data and masking data.

Phase IV evaluates the conduct of various types of fire missions, and reload operations.

Phase V evaluates emergency procedures for a hangfire and an emergency destruction (ED).

Phase VI is an after action review (AAR) of the performances of each individual section.

Note: Phases II through V of the evaluation are built around a tactical scenario that can be changed to fit the unit METL, the training resources, and the time available.

Evaluation Format

The task is a general statement of the requirement of the particular evaluation.

The conditions outline the specific environment or situation in which the evaluation will be administered. They state what assistance or reference materials, if any, are authorized and what equipment or personnel are required for proper evaluation.

Evaluation checklists present the requirements for successful completion of that particular task. Specific technical procedures required in the task will be evaluated by the examiner on the basis of the established procedures in the appropriate reference. When necessary, units should modify task steps to more evenly weigh each step.

Time scales used during this section evacuation are not intended for use as fire mission time standards or expected response times. These are found in ARTEPs 6-525-MTP and 6-398-30-MTP.

The enclosed scales assist unit commanders to further determine relative competence. If needed, the time scales should be adjusted to account for unit proficiency, software, and hardware changes. In order for a section to receive any time points all steps of that task must be scored GO.

Scoring

The performance evaluation will be administered within a time framework on a GO or NO-GO basis; the section either passes or fails. The examiner will base his judgement on the criteria stated in the evaluation checklist and on the most current reference material.

In each block there is a GO value. When the task is completed, add the points and record the points in Table I-3. If a section scores a NO-GO the score for that step is 0. Each task has a maximum amount of NO-GOs allowed to still receive a GO for that task. If a section exceeds that amount of NO-GOs the entire task is scored NO-GO and 0 points awarded.

Preparation

All necessary preparations, as indicated in the conditions for each task, will be made before the task begins. The examiner will ensure that the examinee understands the task to be performed.

Qualification

If the evaluation is administered solely for the purpose of determining the state of training of individual sections within a unit, no formal score is required. The commander can readily determine the strengths and weaknesses of his section simply by subjectively analyzing the GO and NO-GO ratings received for each task performed.

The evaluation may be used to determine relative section proficiency within a unit or if a section meets a standard of excellence by determining a formal score. To determine the score for individual sections, add the numerical score attained in each of the four scored phases. See table I-1 for the qualification scheme.

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Phase I

ORIENTATION AND ORGANIZATION

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During this phase, preferably conducted on a day before administration of the remaining phases, the following are done:

• All personnel are briefed on the conduct and purpose of the training.
• The scoring system is explained.
• The organization of the training area and general administrative and safety procedures are explained.
• All questions are answered.
• The written test is administered to all section personnel.
• The examiner is provided a copy of the unit SOP to use during evaluation.

Task 1-Written Test

The written test is based on FM 6-60, launcher technical manuals, and tasks in the Soldiers Manual (SM). The following test can be used as is or modified to meet a unit's METL. The correct answer to each question is found at the end of this appendix.

Conditions:

• All section members will take the written test.
• One hour is allocated for the test.

Scoring:

There is only one correct answer to each question unless otherwise stated. The scores of the section members are averaged to determine the section score. See Table I-3, Recommended Grading Sheet, for the grading formula.

1. All march columns, regardless of size, have three parts. What are they?

A. Head, body and trail
B. Advance, head and body
C. Advance, main body and rear
D. Advance, main body and detached

2. During convoy operations, orders are received by what element of the march column?

A. Body
B. Trail
C. Head
D. Advance

3. What external resupply control option places maximum control at the battery level?

A. Centralized
B. Shared
C. Decentralized
D. Unconsolidated

4. What external class V resupply control option requires the platoon to move directly to the ASP or ATP?

A. Centralized
B. Decentralized
C. Shared
D. Unconsolidated

5. What are the four types of tactical marches?

A. Open column, close column, terrain march and infiltration
B. Open column, dispatch route, terrain march and infiltration
C. Open column, supervised route, terrain march and infiltration
D. Close column bounding overwatch, terrain march and infiltration

6. When unloading a Guided/Missile Launch Assembly (GMLA), the prompt "WEAPON PURGE FAILURE LPC 1" appears, what action do you take?

A. Notify next higher maintenance.
B. Special handling procedures IAW Unit SOP.
C. Perform emergency destruction on that GMLA.
D. No action required is the prompt you should receive.

7. When the resupply truck and trailer arrive at the firing platoon operational area (OPAREA), who normally controls and monitors the ammunition resupply operations?

A. Launcher section chief
B. Ammo section chief
C. Firing platoon sergeant
D. Firing platoon leader

8. What is a key to MLRS platoon survivability?

A. Establishment of listening posts (LPs).
B. Establishment of observation posts (OPs).
C. Use of land mines.
D. Avoidance of detection.

9. A rendezvous grid is used for what purpose?

A. Consolidation and reorganization
B. Direct support maintenance linkup
C. Ammunition resupply linkup
D. All of the above

10. Hot refilling is on of the options for refueling. How is hot refueling accomplished?

A. Vehicles are refueled at the ALOC.
B. The fuel truck is taken to the vehicle position.
C. Vehicles are refueled during movement.
D. Vehicles are refueled with five gallon cans.

11. What are the keys to a successful RSOP?

A. Hasty recon, fire support
B. C3 logistical support
C. Discipline, teamwork and rehearsal
D. March techniques, terrain and speed

12. A platoon OPAREA should have a minimum of how many firing points?

A. 3
B. 6
C. 9
D. 12

13. What is the minimum distance, in meters, allowed between firing points?

A. 200
B. 300
C. 400
D. 500

14. During a fire mission, what is the approximate distance, in meters, behind the LLM that is considered a noise hazard danger area?

A. 650
B. 700
C. 1200
D. 1500

15. During a hangfire, what checks must the section chief perform after the fire mission has been completed?

A. Safe/Arm switch set to safe, vent fan switch set to medium
B. Vent Fan Control Override switch set to off
C. Ventilation Damper set to the firing position, all doors and windows closed
D. All of the above

16. The crew has unloaded a launch pod container (LPC) containing a hangfire. The Section Chief will ensure that they accomplished which of the following?

A. Inspected the pod for cracks and gouges.
B. The shorting plug(s) is reconnected.
C. The pod is facing a safe field of fire.
D. All of the above.

17. "CHECK FIRE" can be received by FM data, voice transmission, or in person and can be initiated by:

A. Section Chief
B. Gunner
C. OIC
D. Anyone

18. When reloading with M28A1 pods only, the W19 cable is connected to the pod and the W20 cable remains connected to the storage connector.

A. True
B. False

19. When entering start up data, which source will only be used for location data in an emergency?

A. Previously recorded data
B. Position data from a SCP
C. Nonvolatile random access memory
D. Map spot location

20. Prior to pressing LCHR LAY in a fire mission, the section chief:

A. Ensures the launcher is positioned on level ground (slope less than 5 degrees/89 mils).
B. Ensures the launcher is positioned on level ground (9 degrees/85 mils).
C. Ensures the launcher is positioned on level ground (5 mils/89 degrees).
D. None of the above.

21. Once on the firing point, the launcher must be positioned within + or -10 mils of the primary heading.

A. True
B. False

22. Misfires and hangfires are treated in the same manner.

A. True
B. False

23. After a hangfire, how many minutes wait time is recommended prior to conducting rocket disposal action?

A. 10
B. 20
C. 30
D. No waiting is required.

24. Always keep a shorting plug connected to a loaded LPC until:

A SNVT is performed.
B. Connecting an umbilical cable.
C. Connecting a tested umbilical cable.
D. All of the above.

25. Launch pods will be rejected if:

A. Broken wiring is found.
B. A launch tube and covers are loose or other indications that the seal is broken.
C. Lifting bar is bent or cracked.
D. All of the above.

26. When firing, it is recommended that your heading be less than how many mils off the display heading?

A. 0
B. 50
C. 100
D. 270

27. When measuring masking data, what is the minimum distance in meters you should be from the vehicle when using the M2 compass?

A. 10
B. 20
C. 30
D. 40

28. What is the minimum amount of time in seconds that can be entered in the "time between rounds" entry?

A. 7
B. 5
C. 3
D. 1

29. During a hangfire, if the launcher should become uncomfortably hot, what action should you take after 10 minutes?

A. Exit the cab.
B. Open the doors to the cab.
C. Don NBC mask and set the vent switch to normal
D. Set the vent switch to normal.

30. What is the correct azimuth resolver readout limit?

A. -2.0 through +2.0 mils
B. -1.8 through +1.8 deg
C. -1.8 through +2.0 mils
D. -1.8 through +1.8 mils

31. What is the correct elevation resolver readout limit?

A. -1.8 through +1.8 mils
B. -1.8 through +1.8 deg
C. -2.0 through +2.0 mils
D. -1.8 through +2.0 mils

32. What is your action if either the elevation or azimuth resolver readout exceeds tolerance limits?

A. Attempt to adjust the resolver.
B. Notify the OIC the launcher is INOP.
C. Notify DS maintenance.
D. Both b and c

33. How far in meters must you lower the hoist hooks before repositioning the upper pulley assembly?

A. 1/2
B. 1/3
C. 2/3
D. 1/4

34. When loading an M39 missile GMLA, what is the angle of balance and nose position?

A. 20 degrees nose down
B. 10 degrees nose up
C. 15 degrees nose down
D. 12 degrees nose up

For questions 35 thru 38 use the following chart:

Large Square	Upper Small Square	Lower Small Square
A. Yellow	Brown	White
B. Blue	Brown	Light Green
C. Bronze	N/A	N/A
D. Yellow	Brown	N/A

35 thru 38: The correct color codes for a(n)

35. M68 LPC trainer is ________.

36. M28 and M28A1 are _______.

37. M26 is ______.

38. M39 GMLA is ______.

39. When the LLM is laying, what are the actions of the chief?

A. Secure the cab.
B. Close louvers.
C. Ensure LLM is moving in the correct direction.
D. None of the above.

40. During a fire mission, what should the cab pressure gauge read?

A. +25 PSI
B. +0.25 inches of water
C. +25.0 inches of water
D. +0.25 PSI

41. What is the maximum distance you are allowed to drag an LP/C during reload?

A. The width of the LPC
B. 1/3 the width of the LPC
C. 1/2 the width of the LPC
D. 1/2 the length of the LPC

42. If the CMD and ACTL data for AZ and QE are not displayed when the LLM is laid, what are your actions?

A. Press the C/E key and continue the mission.
B. Manually abort the mission and notify the OIC.
C. Abort mission and attempt again.
D. Verify LLM is in the direction of the target and continue.

43. How often is the hoist assembly required to be load tested?

A. Annually
B. Monthly
C. Quarterly
D. Semiannually

44. Errors that are a function of total distance are corrected through the use of updates at SCPs. Updates are recommended after how many kilometers of travel?

A. 6-8
B. 8-12
C. 6-10
D. 8-10

45. The lead seal missing on the external fire extinguisher handle does not render the vehicle NMC.

A. True
B. False

46. If the handbrake handle is defective, it renders the vehicle NMC.

A. True
B. False

47. Which of the following inoperative warning lights renders the vehicle NMC?

A. Engine oil pressure
B. Transmission oil pressure
C. Fire warning.
D. All of the above

48. When you push on the brake pedal, it touches the cab forward wall. Is the vehicle mission capable?

A. Yes
B. No

49. When slaving off a M270, the master switches of both vehicles should be in the on position until the slave cables are hooked up.

A. True
B. False

50. When conducting a power check with the engine stopped, the master switch on, and the launcher switch off, what voltage are you reading?

A. The generator output
B. The front generator
C. The LLM battery power
D. The vehicle battery power

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Phase II

PREPARATION FOR OPERATIONS

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Task 2-Pre-Combat Checks

Condition: The launcher crew is in the motor pool or tactical assembly area (TAA). The platoon is preparing to leave this position to occupy an initial OPAREA.

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Task 3-Perform Launcher Start up Procedures

Conditions: The launcher is in the tactical assembly area (TAA), the FCS has no valid operational data. The radio system is off without COMSEC. Required COMSEC is on hand.

Time Scale
0:01 - 1:30 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	25 Points
1:31 - 2:45 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	20 Points
2:46 - 3:30 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	15 Points
3:31 - 5:00 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	10 Points
5:01 Minutes or more . . . . . . . . . . . . .	05 Points

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Task 4-Conduct Launcher Calibration

Conditions: The launcher section is preparing to move to an initial OPAREA and the FCS requires calibration.

Additional instructions: If the launcher does not calibrate due to crew error a score of 0 will be given for this task.

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Phase III

OCCUPATION

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During this phase the launcher will occupy a hide area (HA) and select a firing point (FP) as part of an MLRS firing platoon. The section will update the launcher, send a database update to the POC, and derive and enter immediate masking data in order to establish a firing capability.

Note: Prior to occupying the OPAREA the launcher chief will be briefed on the location of survey control points (SCPs), reload point (RL) and the location of the launcher's firing area.

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Task 5-Occupy an OPAREA

Conditions: The section has been briefed on location of survey, ammunition, and general location of firing areas.

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Task 6-Input Masking Data

Conditions: The section has occupied their firing area and must determine masking data for an immediate mask.

Time Scale
0:01 - 2:00 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	20 Points
2:01 - 3:00 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	15 Points
3:01 - 4:00 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	10 Points
4:01 - 5:00 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	05 Points
5:01 Minutes or more . . . . . . . . . . . . .	00 Points

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Phase IV

FIRING OPERATIONS

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During this phase, the section will be evaluated on their proficiency conducting firing operations to include reviewing MET data, fire missions, reload of ammunition, and hangfire procedures.

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Task 7-Enter MET Data

Conditions: The launcher is in a hide location. The launcher chief is given a computer MET message containing new MET data.

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Task 8-Execute a Fire Mission

Conditions: The launcher is in a hide location and has assumed a firing capability. Communications with the POC/BOC have been established and the launcher is waiting to receive MLRS Calls For Fire. The launcher is loaded with an M68 LP/C trainer in each bay. No faults selected.

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Task 8a -Execute a Manual Fire Mission (FWR)

Conditions: The launcher is in a hide area (HA) and receives a voice fire mission. Method of control is fire when ready (FWR).

Note: For all fire missions the launcher will be in a hide area within 100 meters of the firing point. Movement time from the hide area to the firing point will be included in the overall mission time. Time starts when the launcher receives the fire mission and presses the ACK key. Time stops when the launcher fires the first round. If the mission is given manually, the time will start when the section chief has verified the firing data to the evaluator.

Time Scale
0:01 - 3:30 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	25 Points
3:31 - 3:45 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	20 Points
3:46 - 4:00 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	15 Points
4:01 - 4:15 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	10 Points
4:16 - 4:30 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	05 Points
4:31 Minutes or more . . . . . . . . . . . . .	00 Points

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Task 8b-Execute a Digital Fire Mission (AMC)

Conditions: The launcher receives a digital FM while at the hide area (HA) and must execute the FM. Method of control is at my command (AMC).

Time Scale
0:01 - 2:45 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	25 Points
2:46 - 3:00 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	20 Points
3:01 - 3:15 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	15 Points
3:16 - 3:30 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	10 Points
3:31 - 3:45 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	05 Points
3:46 Minutes or more . . . . . . . . . . . . .	00 Points

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Task 8c-Execute a Digital Fire Mission (TOT)

Conditions: The launcher is in the hide area and receives a digital FM (TOT).

Additional Instructions: If the crew does not complete the FM a NO-GO for the entire task is given and 0 points scored.

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Task 9-Perform a Reload Operation

Conditions: The launcher has just arrived at a reload point (RL) with two expended LPCs. Two full LPCs or GMLAs (simulated) are present and positioned for reload. A SCP has been established within 10 meters of the RL.

Additional instructions: If either SNVT test is missed or out of sequence a NO-GO is given for the entire task and score 0 points.

Time Scale
0:01 - 6:00 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	25 Points
6:01 - 7:30 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	20 Points
7:31 - 9:00 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	15 Points
9:01 - 10:30 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .	10 Points
10:31 - 12:00 Minutes . . . . . . . . . . . . .	05 Points
12:01 Minutes or more . . . . . . . . . . . . .	00 Points

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Phase V

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

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Task 10-Perform Hangfire Procedures

Conditions: The launcher has received a fire mission and the fire control panel indicates a hangfire condition.

Note: Unit SOP as directed by TM 9-1425-646-10-2 should be used to further clarify exact actions to be taken when a hangfire occurs.

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Task 11-Perform Emergency Destruction

Conditions: The launcher has received orders to destroy the launcher and/or ammunition.

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Phase VI

AFTER ACTION REVIEW

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General

Before starting the AAR, the evaluator must ensure all participants are present and ready.

The evaluator provides the focus for the AAR by briefly restating the specific training and/or evaluation objectives. Next, he asks the section chief to summarize the section's activities.

Initially, the evaluator should only ask questions--why certain actions were taken, how personnel reacted to situations, and when actions were initiated. He must limit his input to sustaining the AAR, guiding the discussion back to the right track, or bringing out new points.

Techniques which will help the evaluator guide the discussion include:

• Ask leading and thought-provoking questions that focus on the training objectives. Ask crew members what METT-T factors influenced their actions.
• Have the section members describe what happened in their own words and from their own point of view. They should be free to discuss not only what took place, but also why it took place.
• Explore alternative courses of action that might have been more effective. (How could you have done it better?)
• Avoid detailed examination of events not directly related to major training objectives unless the section chief wants to go into greater detail.

Present Formal Results

The evaluator should present the numerical results of the section evaluation. He should also recognize and highlight outstanding performances.

Discuss Mistakes

Many times the discussion must focus on mistakes. This discussion should be frank, but without embarrassing those involved. The positive must be emphasized so that lessons can be learned without destroying confidence or respect. Others can learn from a mistake and gain an appreciation for the difficulties involved in leading.

Use Appropriate Training Aids

Training aids can significantly contribute to the AAR discussion if they have been carefully selected. They must not distract from the AAR.

For example, a detailed and done-to-scale terrain table showing the OPAREA where the evaluation was conducted would be inappropriate if the AAR site had a view of the actual terrain. Some keys to the successful use of training aids follow:

• Use the actual terrain whenever possible.
• When using terrain models and maps, orient the participants to the key terrain. Use correct symbols and graphics.
• Use charts to emphasize data that need to be discussed.

Summary and Questions

Evaluators should answer any questions that the crewmen may have. Once all the key points have been discussed and linked to future training, the evaluator should leave the immediate area and allow the unit leader and soldiers the opportunity to discuss the events in private.

Evaluators should try not to unduly damage self-esteem or cohesion. To do so would be contrary to the AAR's goal of improving performance.

By the end of the AAR, soldiers must clearly understand what was good, bad, and average about their performances. The art of the after action review process is to get soldiers to accurately grade their own performances.