When planning an FPF with 8 guns of 155mm Howitzers, what is the length and width in meters?

When planning a Final Protective Fire (FPF) mission with 8 guns of 155mm Howitzers, the key consideration is the coverage area needed to effectively engage the target.

For a standard artillery configuration of this type, the length of the FPF is generally based on the desired effect on target, which is influenced by the range of the artillery and the target area that requires coverage. Conventionally, a length of 400 meters is used, as it effectively allows for adequate coverage while ensuring that the munitions can be directed precisely toward the intended area.

The width of the FPF is typically determined by the number of guns firing simultaneously and their potential dispersion. For 8 guns, a width of 50 meters is appropriate, as it provides a concentrated point of fire that can effectively suppress or destroy enemy forces within that area without risking excessive overlap or wastage of ammunition.

The combination of a length of 400 meters and a width of 50 meters thus allows for optimal targeting and effectiveness of the fire support while maintaining the tactical requirements of the mission. This makes the first choice the correct answer for establishing an effective FPF configuration with the given resources.