Elements of the Call For Fire

To perform the duty of providing naval gunfire, the observer must communicate effectively with the fire support ship. To do this with the least confusion and the greatest speed, the observer uses a standardized call for fire. The call for fire is transmitted to the ship in two transmissions, consisting of six elements, with a read-back break after each transmission. The sequence of these two transmissions is as follows:

• Spotter identification and warning order and target number.



• Target location, target description, method of engagement, and method of fire and control.