Forward observer: Difference between revisions
imported>Howard C. Berkowitz (New page: {{subpages}} A '''Forward observer (FO)''' is an artillery specialist, knowledgeable in the characteristics of artillery howitzers, medium mortars and unguided rockets; [[...) |
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A '''Forward observer (FO)''' is an artillery specialist, knowledgeable in the characteristics of [[artillery]] [[howitzer]]s, medium [[mortar]]s and [[unguided rocket]]s; [[guided missile]]s that can support troops; and [[naval guns and gunnery|naval guns]] used for shore bombardment. FOs may operate as teams, with a combination of team leader, radio operator, laser designator or other marking specialist, etc. The FO team is responsible to the supported ground organization for the proper employment of fire support. They may be attached to foot-mobile [[special reconnaissance]] teams or to conventional combat units. | A '''Forward observer (FO)''' is an artillery specialist, knowledgeable in the characteristics of [[artillery]] [[howitzer]]s, medium [[mortar]]s and [[unguided rocket]]s; [[guided missile]]s that can support troops; and [[naval guns and gunnery|naval guns]] used for shore bombardment. FOs may operate as teams, with a combination of team leader, radio operator, laser designator or other marking specialist, etc. The FO team is responsible to the supported ground organization for the proper employment of fire support. They may be attached to foot-mobile [[special reconnaissance]] teams or to conventional combat units. | ||
The FAC may be on the ground with the supported troops, or in a specialized vehicle. | The FAC may be on the ground with the supported troops, or in a specialized vehicle. In modern warfare, they are part of the larger system of [[controlling close support to ground forces]]. | ||
An equivalent person that coordinates air support is called a '''[[forward air controller ]]'''. | An equivalent person that coordinates air support is called a '''[[forward air controller ]]'''. | ||
Revision as of 13:29, 24 August 2008
A Forward observer (FO) is an artillery specialist, knowledgeable in the characteristics of artillery howitzers, medium mortars and unguided rockets; guided missiles that can support troops; and naval guns used for shore bombardment. FOs may operate as teams, with a combination of team leader, radio operator, laser designator or other marking specialist, etc. The FO team is responsible to the supported ground organization for the proper employment of fire support. They may be attached to foot-mobile special reconnaissance teams or to conventional combat units.
The FAC may be on the ground with the supported troops, or in a specialized vehicle. In modern warfare, they are part of the larger system of controlling close support to ground forces.
An equivalent person that coordinates air support is called a forward air controller .