Fire Support System

The Fire Support System (FSS) is designed to enhance the Marine Corps' capabilities in artillery weapons, fire direction, loitering munitions, and targeting systems. This initiative is essential for creating a fully networked sensor-to-shooter kill chain for the USMC Ground Combat Element. A key component of this program is the Common Laser Range Finder (CLRF), which integrates laser targeting into a lightweight, portable system. The CLRF aims to replace several existing devices with the Next Generation Handheld Targeting System (NGHTS), reducing weight and power needs.

The Fire Support Mod (FSM) component of the FSS focuses on critical operational capabilities in artillery weapons and fire direction control systems. It includes projects like the Improved Position and Azimuth Determining Systems (IPADS) and its successor, the Location Azimuth Determining System (LADS). These systems are crucial for accurate targeting in environments where GPS is degraded. FSM also supports various survey systems and meteorological information management tools to improve artillery accuracy.

The Family of Target Acquisition System (FTAS) equips the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) with capabilities to locate and attack enemy indirect fire weapons while supporting friendly artillery operations. Key elements include radar systems such as the AN/TPQ-46B Firefinder radar and Lightweight Counter Mortar Radars. FTAS plays a vital role in counterfire operations by integrating target acquisition information for MAGTF assets. The program also emphasizes developing replacement sensor systems to address challenges related to Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages (DMSMS).

The Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System (AFATDS) Family of Systems integrates all supporting arms assets within the MAGTF, automating fire planning and coordination. This system supports operations ashore, sea control, and other joint fires requirements. Modernization efforts for AFATDS include transitioning mobile shelters to accommodate new hardware needs due to Force Design 2030. Additionally, the Target Hand-Off System (THS) enhances operational capabilities by providing a digital target acquisition system that integrates video and sensor information for precise targeting under various conditions.