Definition
The Fire Support Coordinator (FSCOORD) is a military term that refers to the officer responsible for coordinating all forms of fire support for ground operational units. This includes artillery, air support, and naval gunfire to support the mission objectives. They also manage and prioritize requests for fire support during combat operations.
Key Takeaways
- Fire Support Coordinator (FSCOORD) is a key figure in military operations who is responsible for planning and coordinating all aspects of fire support during combat operations.
- The FSCOORD ensures that all fire support elements such as artillery, close air support, and naval gunfire, are integrated efficiently into the comprehensive military plan.
- Their role also involves synchronizing effect of different fire support systems, prioritize targets, and reduce potential fratricide. These responsibilities are pivotal for the success of a mission and for establishing proper communication between all fighting units.
Importance
The Military Operations term Fire Support Coordinator (FSCOORD) is important because it is integral to the coordination, planning, and execution of artillery support in military operations.
The FSCOORD serves as a critical communication link between ground forces and supporting artillery, air, and naval gunfire units.
They are tasked with the responsibility of coordinating the attack of targets requiring fire support, ensuring that the fire support is precise, timely, and effective.
Their role is vital for achieving strategic objectives, minimizing the risk of friendly fire, and ensuring efficient use of resources.
Thus, the Fire Support Coordinator plays a pivotal role in the successful implementation of joint fire support at operational and tactical levels.
Explanation
The military role of a Fire Support Coordinator (FSCOORD) is a critical one. It’s significant in achieving the seamless integration of fire support assets in a combat environment, improving the effective use of these assets, and enhancing the overall effectiveness of military operations.
Frequently stationed at the rank of a senior Colonel, FSCOORD’s tasks are predicated on ensuring fire support is rigorously coordinated and deconflicted so as to prevent fratricide, maximize its impact on the enemy, while reducing operational risks and enhancing force protection. The facilitation and orchestrating of fire assets includes, but is not limited to, artillery, naval gunfire, close air support, attack helicopters, mortars, and even non-lethal fires.
Aligning these varying types of firepower into a coordinated barrage requires deft planning and execution. The FSCOORD helps control warfare’s chaos by synchronizing these assets and ensuring battlefield forces can mutually support each other.
Further poignant, it bridges the gap between fire support capabilities and the maneuver teams, providing these combat units a means to request and manage fire support when they need it. As such, the role of an FSCOORD is instrumental in aligning the combined arms combat power, thus decisively influencing the battlefield outcomes.
Examples of Fire support coordinator (FSCOORD)
Operation Desert Storm, 1991: During this Gulf War operation, Fire Support Coordinators were critical. Their role was to coordinate the use of artillery, naval gunfire, and air strikes to support ground forces. They played a vital role in ensuring that the right firepower was directed onto the enemy positions at the right time, leading to successful outcomes in many battles.
Operation Enduring Freedom, Afghanistan, 2001: The Fire Support Coordinators effectively managed and coordinated artillery and air strikes to support ground troops in their fight against the Taliban. They ensured effective synchronization of assets to achieve the best possible results on the battleground. Without their coordination, it would have been much more difficult to carry out a successful offensive.
Operation Iraqi Freedom, Iraq, 2003: Fire Support Coordinators in this operation were crucial in organizing effective bombardments and air strikes against enemy targets while minimizing collateral damage. They worked closely with intelligence personnel to ensure that fire support assets were directed accurately and appropriately, thereby improving the effectiveness of ground operations.
FAQs about Fire Support Coordinator (FSCOORD)
What is a Fire Support Coordinator (FSCOORD)?
A Fire Support Coordinator (FSCOORD) is a military position responsible for coordinating and directing fire support activities for a specific command or unit. Their duties include planning, managing, and executing fire support operations.
What qualifications are required to become a FSCOORD?
The qualifications to become a FSCOORD may vary by military branch, but typically include completing specific training and education programs, possessing tactical experience, demonstrating leadership capabilities, and possessing a keen understanding of fire support systems and procedures.
What are some typical responsibilities of a FSCOORD?
A FSCOORD typically oversees all aspects of fire support for a military operation. This can include everything from planning and coordinating artillery fire to integrating and synchronizing air assets. They also communicate regularly with other units and personnel to ensure efficient and effective operations.
How does a FSCOORD contribute to military operations?
A FSCOORD is a critical part of military operations. They ensure that fire support assets are deployed and used effectively and efficiently, contributing heavily to the success of operations. They allow ground units to engage targets sometimes beyond their reach, provide screening or signals with smoke and illumination, and contribute to the overall aim of denying, delaying, and disrupting enemy forces.
Related Military Operation Terms
- Artillery Observation Officer (AOO)
- Forward Air Controller (FAC)
- Indirect Fire Support (IFS)
- Close Air Support (CAS)
- Fire Support Team (FIST)
Sources for More Information
- Global Security – It’s an online source that provides in-depth, impartial coverage of security issues.
- Military.com – A site that offers resources and news related for military persons and their families.
- U.S. Department of Defense – An official website for the U.S. Department of Defense.
- United States Army – The official website of the United States Army.
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