What is the typical sequence of the fires process?

• A. FO observes enemy and calls for fires -> FDC computes data -> Guns execute mission
• B. Guns execute mission -> FO observes -> FDC computes data
• C. FDC computes data -> Guns execute -> FO observes
• D. FO observes -> Guns execute -> FDC computes data

Answer: (A)

The sequence tested is the flow from spotting and requesting fire to the delivery of that fire, followed by assessment. The forward observer first spots the target and calls for fire, initiating the request. The Fire Direction Center then computes the firing data—ballistic solution, azimuth, range, fuse settings, etc.—to translate the request into a precise firing plan. Finally, the guns execute the mission using that computed data. This order ensures the target is correctly identified, the firing data are properly calculated, and the weapons are fired with the correct parameters. If firing occurs before data are computed, or if observation happens after the shot without a prior computed solution, the sequence would be inconsistent with how coordinating fires is normally managed. After the shot, the observer typically continues to observe impacts and adjusts as needed.