Final protective fire

Error creating thumbnail:

US Navy 070627-N-3857R-003 Two gunners from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 1 convoy security teams fire the rest of their rounds following the final protective fire scenario of the Battalion's field exercise at Camp

Final Protective Fire (FPF) is a military term used to describe a last-ditch effort in defense to repel an attacking enemy force. It involves the concentrated use of all available weapons and firepower on a pre-determined defensive line or area, with the intent to inflict maximum casualties and delay or stop the enemy's advance. This tactic is typically employed when a defensive unit is at risk of being overrun or in situations where holding a position is deemed critical for strategic reasons.

Overview

The concept of Final Protective Fire is rooted in the principles of defensive warfare, where holding certain terrains or positions is crucial for the overall defensive strategy. FPF is considered an extreme measure, used only when conventional defensive tactics have failed or are unlikely to succeed against an overwhelming or breakthrough enemy assault. The execution of an FPF requires precise coordination, timing, and the readiness to expend large quantities of ammunition and resources in a short period.

Execution

The execution of a Final Protective Fire involves several key steps and considerations:

• Preparation: Units designate their FPF areas during the planning stages of a defensive operation. These areas are chosen based on terrain analysis, enemy approach routes, and the strategic value of the defended position.

• Coordination: Effective FPF requires coordination between various elements of the defending force, including infantry, artillery, and air support. Communication is critical to ensure that all units are prepared to deliver fire simultaneously and adjust as needed.

• Trigger: The decision to initiate FPF is typically made by the commanding officer of the defending unit, based on the tactical situation and the imminent threat of being overrun. This decision is critical and often made under extreme pressure.

• Execution: Once ordered, all available weapons, including machine guns, mortars, artillery, and close air support, are directed to fire at the designated FPF area. The goal is to create a lethal barrier that halts or significantly weakens the enemy's advance.

• Aftermath: Following an FPF, units must quickly assess the situation, reorganize, resupply if possible, and prepare for potential follow-on actions by the enemy.

Tactical Considerations

The use of Final Protective Fire carries significant risks and considerations:

• Collateral Damage: The intense and indiscriminate nature of FPF can lead to high levels of collateral damage, including to civilian areas if near the battlefield.

• Ammunition Consumption: FPF requires a large expenditure of ammunition, which can deplete a unit's reserves and impact its ability to continue fighting.

• Psychological Impact: The decision to employ FPF can have a psychological impact on both the defending soldiers and the attacking force, potentially affecting morale and combat effectiveness.

Historical Examples

Throughout history, various forms of Final Protective Fire have been employed in numerous conflicts, demonstrating its effectiveness and the desperate circumstances under which it is used. These instances highlight the tactical necessity of FPF in certain defensive operations, though specific examples are too numerous and varied to list comprehensively without specific references.

Conclusion

Final Protective Fire remains a critical, albeit last-resort, tactic in modern military strategy for defending critical positions. Its successful execution can significantly impact the outcome of a defensive engagement, though it comes with considerable risks and costs.