Forward Observation Course
Indirect fire is only as effective as the information feeding it.
The Forward Observation Course teaches students how targets are identified, located, communicated, and adjusted from the observer’s side of the mission. Designed for individuals supporting mortar operations, this course focuses on practical target acquisition and communication skills needed to support indirect fire systems in real-world environments.
Students will learn how observers build and transmit usable target information while maintaining situational awareness and communicating effectively with firing elements.
Topics include:
- Duties and responsibilities of the Forward Observer
- Observer equipment and field organization
- Target location methods
- Grid missions
- Shift missions
- Polar missions
- Observer-target lines and direction concepts
- Basic target correction methods
- Communication procedures and fire commands
- Common observer errors and how to avoid them
- Target refinement and adjustment techniques
The course emphasizes practical observation skills and problem-solving rather than memorization. Students will work through realistic observation exercises and communication drills designed around actual indirect fire workflows.
Course Information:
- Format: Classroom / Live-fire
- Length: 2 days
- Live Fire: Yes
- Mobile Training Available