Which member of the fire support team is responsible for determining firing data?

The Fire Direction Center (FDC) is responsible for determining firing data, which includes calculating the necessary adjustments and coordinates to ensure that artillery fire is accurate and effective. The FDC processes the information received from the Forward Observer or other sources, analyzes it, and then provides the necessary data, such as the angle of fire, distance, and timing, to the artillery units. This role is crucial for effective fire support, as accurate firing data ensures that rounds land on target and achieve the desired effects.

The Forward Observer is responsible for calling in the fire and providing target information, but they do not calculate the firing data themselves. The Targeting Officer focuses on identifying targets and prioritizing them for engagement but is not directly responsible for determining the specific firing parameters. Similarly, the Field Artillery Officer oversees artillery operations but relies on the FDC for the precise firing data needed for artillery strikes. Each of these roles is important within the context of fire support, but the FDC specifically holds the responsibility for calculating and delivering the firing data essential for effective artillery operations.