What is the critical first step when planning for a Final Protective Fire?

The critical first step in planning for a Final Protective Fire (FPF) is to identify enemy positions. Understanding where the enemy is located is essential for any fire support planning, as it defines the parameters of the FPF area and ensures that the fire can be effectively directed at the target. The identification of enemy positions allows fire support teams to assess the threat level, determine the best courses of action, and integrate their fires in a manner that maximizes impact while minimizing risks to friendly forces.

Following the identification of enemy positions, additional considerations, such as determining friendly positions, calculating ammunition requirements, and establishing communication with units, become relevant. However, without a clear understanding of where the enemy is operating, those subsequent steps cannot be effectively executed. Thus, pinpointing enemy locations lays the groundwork for all other planning activities related to the FPF.