U.S. Marines will receive smart phones to call fire support 11912165

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Military Defense Industry Technology - Smart Phone for U.S. Marines
 
U.S. Marines will receive smart phones to call fire support.
The U.S. Marines will receive smart phones that make calling for fire support easier, quicker and more accurate. The Target Handoff System Version 2 is a portable system designed for use by dismounted Marines to locate targets, pinpoint global positioning coordinates and call for close air, artillery and naval fire support using secure digital communications.
     
The U.S. Marines will receive smart phones that make calling for fire support easier, quicker and more accurate. The Target Handoff System Version 2 is a portable system designed for use by dismounted Marines to locate targets, pinpoint global positioning coordinates and call for close air, artillery and naval fire support using secure digital communications. U.S. Marine Pfc. Zach C. Hagestad, right, looks downrange through a Vector optics system as U.S. Marine Cpl. Viktor I. Cadiente coordinates fire via radio with troops on the ground March 24 at Susungri Range in Pohang, South Korea (Photo U.S. Marines website)
     
The system is an upgrade to the Corps’ current Target Handoff System and is made up of a laser range finder, video down link receiver and a combat net radio.

The THS V.2 also will allowed U.S. Marines to coordinate fire support missions more precisely, minimizing collateral damage.

The THS V.2 uses commercial off-the-shelf smartphones that reduce the system’s total weight from roughly 20 to 10 pounds, making it easier to transport. It also features new, more intuitive software. Information is transmitted via an encrypted combat net radio, ensuring mission security.

Designed for use by forward observers, air controllers and joint terminal attack controllers, THS V.2 allows users to quickly and accurately determine a target’s location and digitally transmit (hand-off) the data to supporting arms elements. The system automatically generates coordinates for targets identified by a Marine and digitizes the information into a map application pre-installed on the smartphone, eliminating the need for manual input. Once digitized, the information is transmitted to the Fire Support Coordination Center, where the proper approach of attack is determined. The FSCC then coordinates air, artillery or naval fire support to extinguish the threat.

The system’s upgraded software includes a new, easy-to-understand interface similar to operating systems used by everyday mobile users. THS V.2 will also come with a pre-installed “Start Guide” help app with step-by-step tutorials ranging from configuration to trouble shooting operations.

THS V.2 is part of the MCSC’s (Marine Corps System Command) joint fires and combined arms arsenal. Joint fires describe the use of weapon systems in a joint environment involving forces from two or more components in coordinated action in support of a common objective.