Laser-guided artillery represents a significant leap in precision warfare. This technology allows for highly accurate strikes, minimizing collateral damage and maximizing the effectiveness of artillery fire. Let’s delve into the intricacies of how this system operates.
The minimum range for a laser-guided shell, as reported by an artillery computer, is 826 meters, with a maximum range extending to 66903 meters. The process involves sending an artillery shot towards the target’s general location. The shell then actively searches for the laser designation approximately 12 seconds before its predicted impact.
To illustrate this process practically, consider a scenario using a Scorcher tank and a JTAC (Joint Terminal Attack Controller) soldier equipped with a laser designator. This configuration enables the simulation and understanding of laser-guided artillery operation.
The JTAC soldier uses a laser designator to mark the target.
Here’s a step-by-step approach to testing the system:
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Setup in Editor: In a game editor, place a Scorcher tank in a position accessible to the gunner and the artillery computer. Next, place an asset equipped with target designating capabilities on the battlefield. Options include a JTAC soldier (found under the “men (recon)” tab), unmanned quadrocopters, Greyhawk UAVs, and SDV mini-submarines. Designate the chosen unit as “playable.”
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Mission Testing: Access the artillery computer on the Scorcher. Load the appropriate ammunition. Input the coordinates for the desired strike location and fire the shot. You may need to exit the artillery computer for the next step to function correctly.
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Target Designation: Switch to the soldier or role assigned with designating capabilities. Properly operate the laser designator equipment. (The laser may be visible with night vision or thermal FLIR equipment, and a laser beam warning might appear on the equipment’s HUD).
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Observation: Observe if the artillery strike accurately hits the designated target.
A Scorcher tank launching an artillery shell.
Laser designators emit a specific coded laser beam that the artillery shell is designed to detect. When the shell detects this coded beam, it adjusts its trajectory to precisely hit the laser-designated target. This process involves sophisticated sensors and guidance systems onboard the artillery shell.
Several factors can affect the accuracy of laser-guided artillery, including weather conditions (such as fog or heavy rain), the distance to the target, and any obstructions between the designator and the target. Atmospheric conditions can scatter or absorb the laser energy, reducing its effectiveness.
In Arma 2, a bug existed where early target lasing caused the shell to lock on prematurely, plotting a direct course. This prevented the shell from achieving proper elevation, resulting in a short fall. The presence of this bug in Arma 3 is uncertain.
Laser-guided artillery offers significant advantages over traditional artillery, including increased accuracy, reduced collateral damage, and the ability to engage moving targets. The technology continues to evolve, promising even greater precision and effectiveness in the future.
