In a fire support team, what does the fire direction center do?

The fire direction center (FDC) plays a crucial role in a fire support team by planning and coordinating fire support. Its primary responsibility is to analyze and interpret requests for fire support, determining the most effective means of delivering that support to achieve desired effects on enemy targets. This involves computing firing solutions, coordinating with different fire support assets, and ensuring that the information transmitted to those assets is clear and actionable.

In doing so, the FDC considers various factors such as terrain, weather, and the operational situation to enhance the effectiveness of artillery and other indirect fire systems. By focusing on planning and coordination, the FDC ensures that fire support is integrated effectively into the overall operation, which is essential in the dynamic environments in which infantry units operate. This function is vital for synchronizing fires with maneuver elements, thus maximizing the impact of the unit's firepower.