Slide 74 of 94
Notes:
Data Entry: Checks which verify all data inputted into the fire direction system (FDS) and launcher FCS eliminate most of the causes of firing incidents to date. Manual checks should focus on FDS operator and launcher crew error, the areas which have caused all launcher related firing incidents.
FCS Self Tests: The FCS conducts internal tests, all of which must be within system accuracy tolerances, before allowing the launcher to fire. In order to complete a firing sequence the LLM must be oriented and maintain accuracy within +/-3 mils of the FCS ballistic solution. This is known as the ballistic firing window. If for any reason the LLM is prevented from reaching or maintaining its computed ballistic firing window, the FCS will cancel the fire mission and not allow the crew to fire.
Location Data: During the conduct of every fire mission the FCS further verifies its SRP and LLM position by comparing its data against a mechanical reference provided by azimuth and elevation resolvers. A failure of agreement between the FCS, SRP and its mechanical resolvers will alert the crew through a warning message. Any indication of a system error should cause the crew to abort the mission in progress and troubleshoot the fault.
Operator Error: Operator error is minimized through verification of launcher start up data. This verification must be made by the section chief. It consists of a comparison of the grid locations, altitudes, and grid zones entered into a calibrated launcher's FCS to a PADS established survey control point (SCP). In the BOC/POC the operations officer/platoon leader will verify that the meteorological data and impact area target location were correctly entered by the FDS operator and transmitted digitally to the firing launcher(s). This independent verification of start up data at the launcher and by the operations officer/platoon leader in the BOC/POC ensures that accurate position data is used during fire mission computation.
