Frequently Asked Questions Ordnance Development Division
Q: What is the Ordnance Development Division?
A: The Ordnance Development Division (ODD) is a specialized division of Freedom Forge Armory focused on indirect fire systems, mortar gunnery instruction, fire direction control, live-fire testing and training, and the development of supporting technologies and procedures. ODD combines doctrine-based training with modern digital tools and practical field experience.
Q: What services does the ODD provide?
A: ODD currently provides:
- Mortar gunnery instruction
- Fire direction and observer training
- Indirect fire operational consulting
- Live-fire testing and evaluation
- Ammunition and component performance testing
- Digital fire control system development
- Safety and operational procedure development
- Specialized indirect fire training support
- UXO awareness level training for first responders
Q: Does ODD provide certification courses?
A: At this time, ODD training is focused on client capability development and professional instruction rather than formal certification. Completion certificates may be issued for certain programs, but they should not be interpreted as government, military, DOJ, or NFPA certifications.
Q: Does ODD offer live-fire training?
A: Yes. Depending on location, range availability, legal considerations, and customer requirements, ODD can conduct supervised live-fire training using inert or approved training ammunition. Live-fire training is available to professional organizations and interested civilians.
Q: Does ODD provide online training?
A: Yes. ODD is developing online instructional content focused on mortar gunnery fundamentals, crew procedures, safety, and indirect fire operations for lawful civilian and professional audiences. You can also check the articles in the ODD blog "The Gun Pit" where we cover various subjects related to gunnery.
Q: Does ODD have a range or training site that is open to the public?
A: No. The ODD has access to several training sites exclusively for indirect fire operations throughout Virginia that it utilizes based on operational requirements and availability.
Q: Could ODD use my property as a training site?
A: Potentially. The ODD is always looking for landowners and properties to support our operations. You can find more information on what a suitable training site is under the "Training Site" tab.
Q: What is I3-FIRES?
A: I3-FIRES is a modular digital fire control and mission management platform developed by ODD to support mortar gunnery, fire direction control, target processing, and mission planning. The system is designed around doctrine-based workflows while maintaining the flexibility to operate in degraded or simplified environments.
Q: Is I3-FIRES intended to replace traditional gunnery knowledge?
A: No. I3-FIRES is designed to support trained personnel, not replace foundational gunnery knowledge. ODD strongly emphasizes manual verification methods, procedural discipline, and understanding the underlying principles of indirect fire operations.
Q: Are I3-FIRES and the P12A1 plotting board available for purchase?
A: No. Because our proprietary hardware and software are built for defense system planning, they are strictly regulated. We only make them available to verified, properly licensed, and credentialed individuals or organizations in compliance with federal export laws.
Q: Does ODD sell mortars or destructive devices?
A: No. ODD does not currently operate as a destructive device dealer or manufacturer. Services and products are limited by applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations. As a licensed FFL/SOT we can assist you with the purchase and transfer of destructive devices.
Q: Does ODD manufacture destructive device ammunition?
A: No. ODD conducts research, development, and testing activities related to inert and training ammunition components where legally permitted. ODD does not manufacture live high explosive, incendiary, or illumination ammunition.
Q: Does ODD work with live ammunition?
A: No. ODD does not conduct operations involving live high explosive (HE), white phosphorus (WP), or illumination (ILLUM) ammunition, except where permitted by federal, state, and local laws.
Q: What mortar systems does ODD currently support?
A: ODD’s current primary focus is 60mm mortar systems and related training systems. Additional systems may be supported depending on operational requirements and available resources.
Q: Is ODD affiliated with the U.S. military or government?
A: No. ODD is an independent private organization and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Department of Defense or any government agency. The ODD supports the defense sector, civilian market, and defense contractors outside of military and Department of Defense channels.
Q: Does ODD provide tactical combat training?
A: ODD focuses specifically on indirect fire systems, gunnery procedures, fire direction control, safety, and operational coordination. Training is centered on technical instruction and responsible system operation.
Q: Does ODD provide overseas fire support contract services?
A: No, ODD is a training and development organization not a Private Military Contractor. Our operations are conducted within the United States and focus on indirect fire training.
Q: Can civilians legally own mortars?
A: Yes. Mortars are classified by the BATFE as Destructive Devices and subject to NFA regulations and tax. However, ownership laws vary significantly by state.
Q: Does ODD provide consulting services?
A: Yes. ODD may provide consulting services related to indirect fire operations, range safety, testing procedures, training program development, and system integration on a case-by-case basis.
Q: Can ODD conduct training at customer locations?
A: Potentially. Mobile training support may be available depending on site suitability, safety requirements, legal considerations, insurance requirements, and logistical support.
Q: Does ODD support historical or collector mortar systems?
A: Yes. ODD has experience working with legacy mortar systems and understands the unique operational, logistical, and safety considerations associated with historical platforms.
Q: Can ODD perform maintenance and repairs on mortar systems?
A: Potentially. The ODD has a maintenance and repair program for the mortars it uses for training. Please use the contact form on the website to speak to us regarding maintenance and repairs for your mortar system.
Q: Why does ODD emphasize doctrine and procedures so heavily?
A: Indirect fire systems rely on disciplined processes, communication, and safety standards. Consistent procedures reduce risk, improve effectiveness, and help prevent predictable operational failures during live-fire activities.
Q: Does ODD use drones or UAVs?
A: Yes, we utilize small UAVs (drones) for a very specific purpose, ensuring absolute range safety. Before any field activity begins, we use them to conduct thorough aerial safety sweeps of the area and to closely observe our impact zones in real time.
Q: Does ODD provide drone or UAV Part 107 remote pilot training?
A: No. The ODD's primary focus is indirect fire training, research, and capability. We utilize UAVs on a limited basis and for specific purposes that support our operations.
Q: How can I contact ODD about training or consulting?
A: Please use the contact form on the website with details about your organization, objectives, and requested services. Due to operational schedules and range activities, response times may vary.
Q: I've read to the end of the FAQ's and I didn't see the answer to my question. What Now?
A: Still looking for answers? Take a deep breath, grab a cup of coffee, and reach out to us directly through our website contact form. We’re a team of real people and we're happy to talk through any specific questions you have.