mobile situations. AM radio should be used when communications distances are increased, when radio
teletypewriter (RATT) traffic is essential, or as an alternate communications means. Parts A and B of this lesson
deal with artillery signal systems using the older generation Army Tactical Communications System (ATACS).
Part C addresses how artillery units command and control using Mobile Subscriber Equipment (MSE).
PART A - DIVISION ARTILLERY SIGNAL SYSTEMS
1. Tactical Fire Direction System (TACFIRE). TACFIRE is the current FA command and control system that
meets the challenge of modem combat. TACFIRE is dependent on its communications links to exchange data to
bring accurate and devastating fire on the Threat. When used with other FA equipment, it provides the maneuver
commander with a system that can quickly detect targets, allocate firepower, and provide fire support. Highly
automated equipment can rapidly and accurately determine target data and transmit that data to the fire direction
center (FDC). TACFIRE provides the means to receive targeting information, allocate firepower, compute
ballistic firing data, and send fire orders to FA weapons.
2. Communications Means Using the ATACS. Successful counter fire and interdiction missions depend on
a. Secure FM radio (voice/data).
b. AM radio. The older HF AM radios are being replaced by the improved high frequency radios (IHFR).
c. Multichannel radio (telephone/facsimile). The older multi-channel radio systems are being replaced by
MSE.
d. Wire.
e. RATT. RATT is being replaced by MSE.
3. Single-Channel Radio and Wire nets. The DIVARTY signal officer matches these communications assets
against needs. This officer is involved in everything from recommending command post (CP) locations to
planning essential communications circuits. The signal officer's plans are carried out by the DIVARTY
communications platoon in the DIVARTY headquarters and headquarters battery (HHB) and by subordinate unit
signal officers and platoons. Specific platoon missions are supervised and controlled by the platoon leader
(assistant signal officer) and platoon sergeant or communications chief.
2-2
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