During a movement-to-contact, FSOs/FSNCOs should consider planning fires;

• A. On Critical Points Along the Axis of Advance (CPs, Flanks, Key Terrain)
• B. Only At The Start
• C. Randomly Along the Axis
• D. Only After Contact

Answer: (A)

Fires during movement-to-contact are most effective when they’re planned for the points where your unit is most likely to meet resistance or where terrain could shape the fight. Focusing on critical points along the axis of advance—such as CPs where contact is likely, along the flanks where the enemy might attempt to maneuver or enfilate, and on key terrain that could accelerate or hinder progress—lets you shape the engagement early. By preplanning fires for these spots, you have immediate, coordinated effects ready to support the movement, fix advancing or opposing forces, and protect your route as you continue the approach.

Starting fires only at the beginning misses opportunities to influence the fight as you progress; planning randomly along the axis wastes ammunition and can reveal positions or create gaps in coverage; waiting until after contact sacrifices tempo and your initiative.