MLRS safety data calculator fielding now

FA Journal, March-June, 2004 by T.J. Johnstone

Since the first fielding of the multiple-launch rocket system (MLRS) in the early 1980s, safety procedures for unit live-fire training exercises have been tactically unrealistic, administratively labor-intensive, time-consuming and expensive.

The safety procedures contained in FM 3-09.60 (FM 6-60) Tactics. Techniques and Procedures for MLRS Operations articulate the need for MLRS launchers to be used as "check-launchers" when other launchers are conducting live-fire exercises. The check-launcher checks the data of the firing launcher's technical firing solution. The comparison of the launcher's firing solution to the check-launcher's solution validates the data before the launcher fires the mission. This ensures the safe firing of MLRS reduced-range practice rockets (RRPRs).

Tthe introduction of the MLRS SDC eliminates the need for check-launchers; the SDC started fielding in May.

The SDC. It is a Windows-based (98 through XP) software program installed on either a desktop or notebook computer (hand-held device as a future capability) that facilitates MLRS live-fire operations by computing safety data. The SDC can compute safety data for all current and future MLRS firing platforms: M270's improved position determining system (IPDS), M270A1 and high-mobility artillery rocket system (HIMARS).

The algorithm software in SDC is identical to the software in the launcher's fire control system (FCS). The SDC program generates safety "T" data for all methods outlined in FM 309.60--operations area (OPEREA), point-to-point and firing point--and creates the graphics for each firing method.

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Computer meteorological (Met) data is entered manually by the operator or received electronically from an advanced FA tactical data system (AFATDS) or fire direction system (FDS). Modems and cables issued with either the command and control tactical trainer ([C.sup.2]TT) (active) or the tactical proficiency trainer, digital enhancement unit (TPT-DEU) (National Guard) connect the SDC computer (laptop) to the command and control device. Standard Met is a selectable option and may be used for training purposes. Mission data can be filed in the system for pre-planning and historical use and also can be printed.

Cost Savings. According to the Project Manager for Precision Fires Rocket and Missile Systems, it costs approximately $1,600 per hour to operate a launcher. Many units are using two to four launchers to check the firing data of other launchers during MLRS platoon/battery certifications, which usually take one to two days. These certifications require current Met data--data that has a four-hour life span and requires a new safety T for each new Met.

The Army expects considerable cost savings in using SDC vice check-launchers.

Safety First. With the use of SDC, MLRS live-fire safety will be computed in a manner similar to that used by cannon units. The fire direction officer (FDO) verifies the fire mission data entered by the operators into AFATDS and the SDC. The SDC creates the safety T that is compared to the launcher's data at the firing point. If the launcher's solution falls within the limits of the safety T, it is considered safe and the launcher may fire. This process satisfies the requirement for two independent sources (SDC and the launcher) to compute the fire mission data and validates that the data is entered correctly.

The SDC program has undergone extensive testing. Side-by-side testing using M270, M270A1, HIMARS and SDC has produced results that have consistently been accurate to within plus or minus five mils.

The SDC is user friendly. Every MLRS unit will be issued the system software, a multimedia disc and user's manuals. A new safety appendix to FM 3-09.60 will be published, addressing the use of SDC.

The SDC will be used in 4th Quarter FY04 to support the initial operational test and evaluation (IOT & E) of HIMARS. During the test, HIMARS will fire more than 700 M28A2 rockets. A training package will be furnished to the Field Artillery School for possible inclusion in the curriculums of Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) 13P MLRS Operations/Fire Direction Specialist. MOS 13M MLRS Crewmember and 13A FA Officers.

T. J. Johnstone, Project Officer

MLRS Training & Operations

Titan Corporation