Naval gunfire support

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New Mexico class battleship bombarding Okinawa

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Naval gunfire support (NGS), also known as shore bombardment, is the use of naval artillery to provide fire support for amphibious assault and other troops operating within their range. NGS is a powerful tool in coastal operations, offering precision, high firepower, and the ability to strike targets from a distance without risking ground forces. This article delves into the history, techniques, and modern applications of naval gunfire support.

History

The concept of naval gunfire support dates back to the age of sail, where warships would use their cannons to bombard coastal defenses and support landings. However, it was during the First and Second World Wars that NGS truly came into its own. During these conflicts, battleships, cruisers, and destroyers were regularly called upon to provide fire support for landings, such as those in the Pacific Theater, Normandy, and Italy. The effectiveness of NGS in these operations highlighted its value in amphibious warfare.

Techniques

Naval gunfire support can be direct or indirect. Direct fire is when the ship's guns are aimed visually at targets that are visible to the gunners. Indirect fire involves aiming at targets that are not visible from the ship, using spotting from aircraft, radar, or observers on the ground to adjust fire.

Modern NGS missions are highly dependent on precision-guided munitions and advanced targeting systems. These allow ships to support ground operations from greater distances with high accuracy, minimizing collateral damage and the risk to friendly forces.

Modern Applications

In the post-World War era, naval gunfire support has continued to evolve. The introduction of guided missiles and advanced artillery systems has expanded the capabilities of naval gunfire, allowing ships to engage targets with precision over long distances. Modern navies, such as the United States Navy and the Royal Navy, maintain a number of ships capable of providing NGS, including destroyers and cruisers equipped with advanced gun systems and cruise missiles.

Despite the advancements in airpower and the increasing role of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in close air support, NGS remains a valuable asset. Its ability to deliver sustained fire support, especially in environments where air support is limited or non-existent, underscores its continued relevance.

Challenges and Limitations

One of the main challenges facing naval gunfire support today is the risk posed by anti-ship missiles and shore-based defenses, which can limit the ability of ships to operate close to hostile shores. Additionally, the precision required in modern warfare to avoid collateral damage demands highly accurate targeting information and munitions, which can be challenging in dynamic combat environments.

Future of Naval Gunfire Support

The future of NGS is likely to see further integration of unmanned systems, both for targeting and for the delivery of fire support. The development of railguns and laser weapons may also provide new means for ships to support ground forces from the sea. However, the fundamental principle of using naval firepower to support land operations will remain a critical aspect of amphibious warfare.