ADA434233

Joint Pub 3-09.
Joint Tactics,
Techniques, and Procedures
for Laser Designation
Operations
28 May 1999
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PREFACE
1. Scope 3. Application
This publication provides joint tactics, a. Doctrine a n d s e l e c t e d t a c t i c s ,
techniques, and procedures for employing techniques, and procedures and guidance
light amplification by stimulated emission of established in this publication apply to the
radiation (laser) target designators, laser commanders of combatant commands,
acquisition devices, and laser-guided subunified commands, joint task forces, and
munitions. It describes joint laser planning, subordinate components of these commands.
coordination procedures, capabilities, and These principles and guidance also may apply
limitations. when significant forces of one Service are
attached to forces of another Service or when
2. Purpose significant forces of one Service support
forces of another Service.
This publication has been prepared under
the direction of the Chairman of the Joint b. The guidance in this publication is
Chiefs of Staff. It sets forth doctrine and authoritative; as such, this doctrine (or JTTP)
selected joint tactics, techniques, and will be followed except when, in the judgment
procedures (JTTP) to govern the joint of the commander, exceptional circumstances
activities and performance of the Armed dictate otherwise. If conflicts arise between
Forces of the United States in joint operations the contents of this publication and the
and provides the doctrinal basis for US contents of Service publications, this
military involvement in multinational and publication will take precedence for the
interagency operations. It provides military activities of joint forces unless the Chairman
guidance for the exercise of authority by of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, normally in
combatant commanders and other joint coordination with the other members of the
force commanders and prescribes doctrine Joint Chiefs of Staff, has provided more
and selected tactics, techniques, and current and specific guidance. Commanders
procedures for joint operations and training. of forces operating as part of a multinational
It provides military guidance for use by the (alliance or coalition) military command
Armed Forces in preparing their appropriate should follow multinational doctrine and
plans. It is not the intent of this publication to procedures ratified by the United States. For
restrict the authority of the joint force doctrine and procedures not ratified by the
commander (JFC) from organizing the force United States, commanders should evaluate
and executing the mission in a manner the JFC and follow the multinational command’s
deems most appropriate to ensure unity of doctrine and procedures where applicable and
effort in the accomplishment of the overall where consistent with US policies and
mission. procedures.
For the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff:
V. E. CLARK
Vice Admiral, US Navy
Director, Joint Staff
i
Preface
Intentionally Blank
ii Joint Pub 3-09.1

TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .......................................................................................... vii
CHAPTER I
CONCEPT
• Introduction .............................................................................................................. I-1

• Laser Use on the Battlefield ...................................................................................... I-1
• Laser Target Acquisition ........................................................................................... I-3
• Friendly Forces Safety Considerations ...................................................................... I-4
CHAPTER II
PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS
• Laser Designator Characteristics .............................................................................. II-1

• Environmental Considerations ................................................................................. II-7
• Seeker Characteristics .............................................................................................. II-8
• Seeker Types ............................................................................................................ II-9
• Target Types ............................................................................................................. II-9
• Designator Operator Positioning Considerations .................................................... II-10
• Offset Laser Designation ........................................................................................ II-10
• Delayed Laser Designation for LGBs ..................................................................... II-10
• Delayed Laser Designation for HELLFIRE ............................................................ II-11
• Redundant Laser Designation ................................................................................. II-11
• Laser Systems Descriptions .................................................................................... II-12
CHAPTER III
PROCEDURES
• General Procedures ................................................................................................ III-1

• Laser Designation for Artillery ............................................................................... III-4
• Laser Designation for CAS .................................................................................... III-6
• Rotary-Wing Close Air Support ............................................................................ III-14
• Laser Designation for Non-CAS Air Attacks......................................................... III-16
CHAPTER IV
LASER CODES
• Introduction ........................................................................................................... IV-1

• Management of Coded Laser Systems .................................................................... IV-1
• Laser Coding in Conjunction With LGBs. .............................................................. IV-2
• Coding Prioritization .............................................................................................. IV-2
iii
Table of Contents
CHAPTER V
SAFETY
• General ................................................................................................................... V-1

• Laser Eye Safety ..................................................................................................... V-1
• Fratricide ................................................................................................................ V-2
• Organizational Safety Considerations ...................................................................... V-3
APPENDIX
A Laser Equipment Descriptions .......................................................................... A-1

B Procedures Guide ............................................................................................... B-1
C CAS Briefing Form (9-line) ............................................................................... C-1
D LGB and LLLGB Delivery Profiles .................................................................. D-1
E Laser Protocol .................................................................................................... E-1
F References ......................................................................................................... F-1
G Administrative Instructions ............................................................................... G-1
GLOSSARY
Part I Abbreviations and Acronyms ................................................................... GL-1

Part II Terms and Definitions .............................................................................. GL-4
FIGURE
I-1 Infrared Electromagnetic Spectrum .............................................................. I-5

II-1 Mirrorlike Reflections (Perpendicular) ........................................................ II-2
II-2 Mirrorlike Reflections (Angular) ................................................................ II-2
II-3 Scattered Reflections .................................................................................. II-2
II-4 Laser Spillover ........................................................................................... II-3
II-5 Target Reflections (Perpendicular) .............................................................. II-3
II-6 Target Reflections (Angular)....................................................................... II-4
II-7 Vertical Reflections (Detectable) ................................................................. II-4
II-8 Podium Effect ............................................................................................. II-5
II-9 Reflections in a Chosen Direction ............................................................... II-5
III-1 Aircraft Delivery of Laser-Guided Munitions ........................................... III-2
III-2 Minimum Safe Altitudes for Aircraft Above the 20° Safety Zone ............. III-2
III-3 Example of Safety Zone and Optimal Attack Zones .................................. III-3
III-4 HELLFIRE Designator Exclusion Zone .................................................. III-17
A-1 Laser-Guided Weapons .............................................................................. A-2
A-2 Airborne Platforms With Coded Laser Target Designators ......................... A-3
A-3 Ground Systems With Coded Laser Target Designators ............................. A-3
A-4 Airborne Platforms With Coded Laser Acquisition and/or Spot Trackers ... A-4
A-A-1 Fixed-Wing Aircraft Capabilities ........................................................... A-A-2
A-A-2 Rotary-Wing Aircraft Capabilities ......................................................... A-A-5
A-B-1 Man-Portable Laser System Comparisons ............................................... A-B-1
A-C-1 Angle Rate Bombing System (Marine Corps) ......................................... A-C-1
iv Joint Pub 3-09.1

Table of Contents
A-D-1 Low-Altitude Navigation and Targeting Infrared For Night
(Air Force/Navy) ................................................................................ A-D-1
A-E-1 Laser Spot Tracker (Navy and Marine Corps) ......................................... A-E-1
A-F-1 PAVE PENNY (Air Force) ..................................................................... A-F-1
A-G-1 OH-58D Mast-Mounted Sight (Army) ................................................... A-G-1
A-H-1 AH-1W Night Targeting System (Marine Corps) ................................... A-H-1
A-J-1 AH-64 Target Acquisition System and Designation Sight (Army) ............ A-J-1
A-K-1 AC-130H/U Laser Target Designation Capabilities (Air Force) .............. A-K-1
A-L-1 Ground/Vehicle Laser Locator Designator (Army) .................................. A-L-1
A-M-1 Laser Target Designator (Army) ............................................................. A-M-1
A-N-1 Compact Laser Designator (Handheld) (Navy) ...................................... A-N-1
A-O-1 Laser Marker, AN/PEQ-1(A) (SOF) ...................................................... A-O-1
A-P-1 AN/PAQ-3 Man-Portable, Universal Laser Equipment (Marine Corps) .. A-P-1
A-Q-1 The Laser Target Designator/Ranging (Navy and Marine Corps) ........... A-Q-1
A-R-1 COPPERHEAD, 155 mm Cannon-Launched Guided Projectile
(Army and Marine Corps) .................................................................... A-R-1
A-S-1 AGM-114 HELLFIRE Missile (Army, Marine Corps, and Navy) ........... A-S-1
A-T-1 Laser MAVERICK AGM-65E (Navy and Marine Corps) ....................... A-T-1
A-U-1 Laser-Guided Bombs (PAVEWAY II) (Air Force, Navy,
and Marine Corps) .............................................................................. A-U-1
A-W-1 Low-Level Laser-Guided Bomb (PAVEWAY III) (Navy
and Air Force).................................................................................... A-W-1
A-Y-1 AN/AAQ-16D AESOP FLIR (Army) .................................................... A-Y-1
A-Z-1 SH-60B/HH-60H AN/AAS-44(V) FLIR LTD/R System (Navy) ............ A-Z-1
B-A-1 Ground and Airborne Laser Designation Procedures for
CLGP “COPPERHEAD” .................................................................... B-A-2
B-B-1 Procedures for Aircraft With Laser-Guided Weapons and Laser
Spot Trackers ....................................................................................... B-B-2
B-C-1 Procedures for Helicopters With Laser-Guided Missiles
and Remote Designator ........................................................................ B-C-2
D-1 LGB and LLLGB Delivery Tactic (Permissive Threat) .............................. D-1
D-2 PAVEWAY II Low-Level Loft Delivery Tactic (Sophisticated
Threat, Positive Target Identification) ..................................................... D-2
D-3 PAVEWAY III Low-Level Delivery Tactic ................................................ D-3
D-4 LGB and LLLGB Pop-Up Delivery Tactic (Sophisticated Threat,
Target Identification Difficult) ................................................................ D-4
v
Table of Contents
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vi Joint Pub 3-09.1

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
COMMANDER’S OVERVIEW
• Covers Laser Planning Considerations
• Discusses Laser Designation Procedures
• Provides a Discussion of Laser Codes
• Covers Laser Safety Considerations
Overview
Precision weapons will The light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation

play a key role in the (laser) is the enabling technology of more precise weapons.
conduct of future Laser systems enable joint forces to engage a wider range of
battlefield operations. targets with more accuracy and fewer munitions than
previously possible.
Laser technology on the battlefield includes laser target ranging

and designation systems, laser acquisition systems, and laser-
guided weapons (LGWs). Laser target ranging and
designation systems can provide accurate range, azimuth, and
elevation information to locate enemy targets. These can be
either aircraft-mounted or ground systems. Laser acquisition
devices can be aircraft-mounted (laser spot trackers [LSTs])
or mounted on LGWs. LGWs home in on reflected laser
energy to strike a target.
Laser Target Acquisition

Laser designators can Aircrews using laser target acquisition aids have a tremendous
provide precision target advantage over aircrews that have to acquire targets visually.
marking for employment Ground laser designator operators (LDOs) have more time
of air-to-surface and than do aircrews. LSTs have a limited field of view but can
surface-to-surface laser- attack a target even if it can’t be visually distinguished from
guided weapons. other objects. Optics on aircraft may have a longer line of
sight than optics on ground-based systems.
vii
Executive Summary
Planning Considerations
Employment of lasers Laser designators emit a narrow beam of laser pulses which
must be carefully planned. is susceptible to degradation from atmospheric scatter and a
variety of target reflections. The beam may reflect off the
target at various angles, depending on the target’s shape and
composition. Environmental considerations such as line of
sight and visibility degradation can inhibit successful laser
designation operations. LDOs and aircrews must consider these
factors when attacking targets. There are two classifications
of targets: area or point targets.
LDOs must carefully consider operating techniques and

locations of laser designators. These techniques include offset
designators, delayed designation, and redundant designators.
Procedures
The laser designator Safety of ground designators is an essential consideration
operator must consider during designation operations. Aircraft attack headings must
many factors when be carefully planned to avoid the target-to-laser safety zone.
selecting a laser Attack headings inside this zone significantly increase the
designation position. likelihood that an air-launched weapon will guide, or an LST
will track, onto the laser designator instead of the target.
Both ground and aerial observers can designate for laser-

guided artillery projectiles. While effective, this procedure
requires extensive coordination between the observer and the
artillery firing unit.
Ground observers and aircraft can designate for close air

support (CAS) operations, whether it is provided from rotary-
or fixed-winged aircraft. Using aircraft to deliver LGWs allows
the commander to destroy high-threat point targets. Observers
and aircraft must know the laser codes to be used prior to actual
employment of the LGWs, either through coordination before
the CAS mission begins, or as the aircraft approach the target
area.
Laser designation support can also be provided to aircraft

in a non-CAS role, such as interdiction operations, armed
reconnaissance, and other related areas.
viii Joint Pub 3-09.1

Executive Summary
Laser Codes
Laser designators and Laser codes are not entirely compatible across the spectrum
seekers are coded to work of military laser equipment. Some devices and weapons use a
in harmony, so that the three-digit code, while others use a four-digit code. Multiple
seeker will track only the coding allows simultaneous attacks on multiple aim points
target designated. within an area target without interference from different laser
designators.
For joint task force operations, the joint task force operations
officer allocates laser codes to components. The components
further sub-assign the codes to supporting arms, ensuring that
the codes are compatible with all component units and laser
systems.
Safety
Safety considerations for Laser energy is hazardous and must be safely controlled and
friendly forces are correctly employed in both training and combat environments.
paramount. All units involved in laser operations must follow laser safety
procedures outlined in this and other laser references, and
should establish and enforce laser safety standard operating
procedures. Safety considerations are discussed throughout
this publication.
The primary danger from current laser designators is to

the eye. Units must follow specific procedures to safeguard
against eye damage.
CONCLUSION
This publication provides tactics, techniques, and procedures

for employing laser target designators, laser acquisition devices,
and laser-guided munitions. It prepares for operations
involving these precision weapons by describing laser planning,
coordination procedures, capabilities, and safety issues.
ix
Executive Summary
Intentionally Blank
x Joint Pub 3-09.1

CHAPTER I
CONCEPT
“The key principle underlying Coalition strategy was the need to minimize
casualties and damage, both to the Coalition and to Iraqi civilians. It was
recognized at the beginning that this campaign would cause some
unavoidable hardships for the Iraqi people. It was impossible, for example,
to shut down the electric power supply for Iraqi C2 facilities or CW factories,
yet leave untouched the electricity supply to the general populace. Coalition
targeting policy and aircrews made every effort to minimize civilian casualties
and collateral damage. Because of these restrictive policies, only PGMs
were used to destroy key targets in downtown Baghdad in order to avoid
damaging adjacent civilian buildings.”
Conduct of the Persian Gulf War, Final Report to Congress,

April 1992, Chapter VI, page 131
1. Introduction and environment, LGWs may provide better

ways to attack targets.
a. The Modern Battlefield. Precision
weapons play a significant role in c. Laser Procedures on the Battlefield.
b a t t l e f i e l d success by providing The battlefield environment can degrade
commanders with greatly improved LGW accuracy. All elements employing
weapon accuracy. This improved accuracy LGWs must conduct thorough planning
yields higher probability of achieving the and follow established procedures to ensure
desired end state while lowering the their successful employment.
probability of collateral damage. The
technology enabling increased accuracy of 2. Laser Use on the Battlefield
many of these weapons is the laser.
Laser technology for the battlefield has
b. Laser Capabilities. Laser designators developed in many areas, such as laser target
radiate a narrow beam of pulsed energy. ranging and designation systems, laser
Current tactical lasers operate in the near- acquisition systems, and LGWs. Although
infrared wavelength spectrum, which is not “infrared (IR) pointers” such as the AN/
visible to the human eye. When within range, PAQ-4 and the LPL-30 are technically lasers
the laser designator can be aimed so the energy operating in the .83 micron range, the
precisely designates a chosen spot on the discussion of their use and associated tactics,
target. Laser target designators (LTDs) mark techniques, and procedures is not covered in
targets for laser spot trackers (LSTs) and laser- this publication because they are incapable of
guided weapons (LGWs). Some laser systems guiding LGWs.
can accurately determine target range and
location. When coupled with horizontal and For further information on these systems, refer
vertical scales, they can measure target to JP 3-09.3, “Joint Tactics, Techniques, and
azimuth and elevation. LGWs can reduce the Procedures for Close Air Support (CAS).”
number of weapons and/or weapon systems
required to achieve an objective, because of a. Laser Target Ranging and
increased accuracy. Based on the threat level Designation Systems. Laser target ranging
I-1
Chapter I
and designation systems can provide accurate LGWs require laser target illumination before
range, azimuth, and elevation information to launch or release and/or during the entire time
locate enemy targets. These systems may vary of flight; some require illumination only
from handheld to aircraft-mounted devices during the terminal portion of flight. Unique
and perform similar functions with varying laser-guided munitions capabilities can be
degrees of accuracy. In combination with fully exploited only with careful planning
global positioning system (GPS), lasers can based on a thorough knowledge of each
provide accurate enemy target locations. In weapon system.
addition, lasers in combination with GPS can
provide for target area analysis. This analysis d. Basic Requirements. Six basic
can be used to fire weapons accurately at the requirements are needed to effectively employ
enemy, to accurately locate future friendly laser designators with LSTs or LGWs.
observer locations, and to enable friendly
forces to effectively conduct maneuver • Atmospheric conditions must be
operations as well as command and control suitable for laser operations. Smoke,
their forces by accurate identification of terrain haze, clouds, and precipitation can
reference points. significantly attenuate and scatter laser
energy and degrade delivery accuracy.
b. Acquisition Devices. Of the two types
of laser acquisition devices, the first, the LST, • A line of sight (LOS) must exist
is used to aid visual acquisition of the target between the designator and the target and
to be attacked by another weapon. This type between the target and the LST and/or
of laser acquisition device is normally LGW. For LGWs, this LOS must exist
mounted on fixed-wing aircraft or helicopters. prior to launch or after launch, depending
The second type of acquisition device is a on the weapon’s capabilities.
seeker and guidance kit mounted on LGWs
which guide on coded laser energy. • The direction of attack must allow the
LST or LGW to sense sufficient laser
c. Striking a Target. LGWs home in on energy reflecting from the designated
reflected laser energy to strike a target. Some target, minimize false target indications,
Unique laser-guided munitions capabilities can be fully exploited only with

careful planning based on a thorough knowledge of each weapons system.
I-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

Concept
and preclude the LGW from guiding on parties to the Protocol have an obligation
the LTD. to “take all feasible precautions to avoid
the incidence of permanent blindness to
• The laser designator must designate unenhanced vision.” The United States is
the target at the correct time and for not yet a party to the Protocol on Blinding
the proper duration. Laser Weapons, but it has been transmitted
by the President to the Senate for advice
• The pulse repetition frequency (PRF) and consent to ratification. The “DOD
code of the LTD and LST or LGW must Policy on Blinding Lasers” was revised on
be compatible 17 January 1997, and recognizes that
accidental or incidental eye injuries may occur
See Chapter IV, “Laser Codes.” on the battlefield through the use of lasers for
detection, targeting, range-finding,
• The delivery system must release the communications, and target destruction;
weapon within the specific weapon’s however, it is Department of Defense (DOD)
delivery envelope. policy “to strive, through training and
doctrine, to minimize these injuries.”
e. Enemy Use of Laser Countermeasures.
During the past few years, the United States Safety considerations designed to minimize
and its allies have become increasingly reliant these injuries are discussed in Chapter V,
on laser-guided munitions. Potential US “Safety.” Appendix E, “Laser Protocol,”
adversaries realize the importance of laser contains the full texts of Protocol IV and the
countermeasures in a conflict with the United current DOD Policy on Blinding Lasers.
States or its allies. Many of the techniques
for countering laser energy and sensitive 3. Laser Target Acquisition
electro-optical equipment are common
knowledge throughout much of the world. a. Laser Designator Marking. Laser
Potential US adversaries are well-equipped designators can provide precision target
to detect and counter the increasingly marking for employment of air-to-surface and
sophisticated laser designator and guidance surface-to-surface LGWs. Precise target
systems used by the armed forces of Western marking with laser designators is directly
nations. Prior to the demise of the Warsaw related to target size and aspect, laser-beam
Pact, for example, its literature made divergence, designation range, and
continuous reference to the capabilities of atmospheric attenuation of the beam.
natural and manmade obscurants to degrade
laser systems, night vision devices, and b. Target Acquisition. With or without
electro-optical sensors. LSTs, as with all acquisition aids, aircrews
must always acquire targets visually. With
f. Legal Uses of Lasers on the limited acquisition time, a fighter or attack
Battlefield. Protocol IV to the Certain aircraft aircrew may not see a small target in
Conventional Weapons Convention time to employ weapons. When targets are
(Protocol on Blinding Laser Weapons) well camouflaged, acquisition is even more
prohibits the use of lasers specifically difficult. The aircrew may not be able to
designed to cause permanent blindness distinguish enemy targets from friendly forces
to unenhanced vision. For all other or decoys. Even if the target is large, the
types of lasers, such as those used for aircrew often cannot visually distinguish it
detection, targeting, range-finding, from natural objects of the same size and color
communications, and target destruction, or IR signature.
I-3
Chapter I
Personnel should be aware of several factors
which may affect the precision of a laser
mark, and these considerations for
planning and employment are discussed in
detail in Chapter II, “Planning
Considerations.” Note: Laser marks may
also alert the enemy to the presence of
friendlies if the enemy has laser detectors.
e. Laser Spot Trackers. LSTs have a

limited field of view. The aircrew must
maneuver the aircraft to acquire the laser
designator’s energy using the LST. A visible
mark may also be necessary to help the
aircrew align the seeker. When the LST senses
the energy and displays the target’s position,
aircrews are capable of attacking the target
even if they cannot distinguish the
Ground laser designator operators normally camouflaged target from other objects on the
have more powerful optics to acquire targets
than do aircrews of fighter or attack aircraft. ground provided they have verified the target
by other means.
c. Ground and Airborne Laser
Designator Operators (LDOs). Ground f. Figure I-1 illustrates IR and laser
LDOs normally have much more time to equipment compatibility. As depicted,
acquire targets than do the crews of attack compatibility exists only between LTDs and
aircraft. However, this advantage may be LSTs. In other words, all coded laser target
offset by the ground LDO being exposed to designators can work with all coded laser
fire, or the LDO's inability to accurately laser acquisition and/or spot trackers and all coded
designate the target due to smoke, haze, laser-guided weapons. IR pointers and night
terrain, or vegetation. In comparison, attack vision goggles (NVGs) are only compatible
aircraft LDOs have the following advantages: with each other. IR pointers cannot designate
a generally unrestricted LOS to the target; a for LSTs, and NVGs cannot see the LTD mark.
less threatened posture; and the possession of Forward-looking infrared (FLIR) systems are
better target acquisition and designation not compatible with LTDs, LSTs, and/or IR
systems. Optical viewing allows the operator pointers.
to pick out camouflaged objects at a distance
and distinguish the most important targets 4. Friendly Forces Safety
when several are in view. Considerations
d. Precision Targeting. Lasers provide the Safety considerations are discussed
most precise target mark available. Lasers throughout this publication, specifically in
are not susceptible to wind effects, as are Chapter II, “Planning Considerations,”
ballistically-delivered target marks such as Chapter III, “Procedures,” and Chapter V,
smoke. Visible target marks may compromise “Safety.” It is key to remember that laser
an observer’s position and alert enemy forces to energy is hazardous and must be safely
impending attack, allowing them to hide or controlled and employed correctly in both
disperse. Visible marks may also obscure the the training and combat environments.
target if not employed properly.

Concept
INFRARED ELECTROMAGNETIC SPECTRUM
Forward-
Mid-wave looking
Laser Target Forward- Infrared
Designators looking
Infrared
Night Vision
Goggles Laser Spot
Trackers
IR Pointers
0.62 0.99 1.06 1.54 3 5 8 12

(wavelength in microns)
Figure I-1. Infrared Electromagnetic Spectrum
Refer to Military Handbook 828A, “Laser comprehensive information in a one source

Safety on Ranges and in Other Outdoor document detailing friendly force safety
Areas,” developed by the DOD Laser considerations.
System Safety Working Group, for the most
I-5
Chapter I
Intentionally Blank

CHAPTER II
PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS
“Victory smiles on those who anticipate the changes in the character of war,
not upon those who wait to adapt themselves after the changes occur.”
Giulio Douhet
1. Laser Designator can cause false seeker lock-on and target

Characteristics indications within short distances from the
laser exit port. This is also referred to as
a. Laser Beam. Laser designators may backscatter. Safety impacts of this effect are
emit a narrow, collimated beam of laser pulses. discussed later in this publication.
The laser designator possesses several unique
characteristics, including beam divergence, Refer also to Military Handbook 828A,
which significantly impact laser operations. “Laser Safety on Ranges and in Other
Another characteristic is the single color Outdoor Areas,” for a further discussion.
(wavelength) of the laser pulses. Laser
wavelengths span from the ultraviolet to the e. Mirrorlike Reflection. Laser energy
visible to the far IR spectrum. Wavelength pointed at a mirror will be reflected, and
determines whether the sensor is visible to the beam will remain narrow. If the mirror
the human eye or specific sensor. Current is perpendicular to the laser beam (Figure
tactical laser designators fall in the near IR II-1), the beam will be reflected directly
band and are invisible to the human eye. The toward the laser position. If the mirror is at
beam is susceptible to enemy acquisition an angle to the laser beam, the beam will be
throughout the laser energy wavelength. reflected at an angle equal to the angle of the
incident beam (Figure II-2). Any seeker that
b. Beam Divergence and Spot Size. The is looking for this laser energy would have to
laser spot size is a function of beam be in the narrow area of reflection. IR energy
divergence and the distance from the laser is reflected in a narrow beam from bare metal
designator to the target. If a designator has as well as from mirrorlike and glass surfaces.
a beam spread or divergence of 1 milliradian,
its spot would have a diameter of f. Scattered Reflection. If a surface is flat
approximately 1 meter at a distance of 1,000 and not shiny, it reflects light and IR energy
meters in front of the designator. For planning in a large arc (Figure II-3).
purposes, spot size should be determined and
ideally equal to no more than half the target g. Spillover Reflection. Spillover occurs
surface area. when the laser spot is larger than the intended
target, or when there is unsteady tracking of
c. Optics. Ground laser designators have the target from the designator. Overspill
rifle scope-type optics to help aim the laser occurs when some of the laser energy goes
energy. The crosshairs allow the laser operator beyond the target and impacts an object or
to select a precise aim point. terrain behind the intended target. Underspill
occurs when some of the laser energy impacts
d. Atmospheric Scatter. A seeker may either terrain or an object short of the intended
detect scattered radiation that is caused by target. When the target is smaller than the
suspended matter in the atmosphere. It can laser spot or there is unsteady tracking of the
occur even on clear days. This phenomenon target from the designator, there is energy
II-1
Chapter II
MIRRORLIKE REFLECTIONS
(PERPENDICULAR)
Laser
Figure II-1. Mirrorlike Reflections (Perpendicular)
MIRRORLIKE REFLECTIONS
(ANGULAR)
Laser
Figure II-2. Mirrorlike Reflections (Angular)
SCATTERED REFLECTIONS
Laser
Figure II-3. Scattered Reflections
II-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

spillover around the target. This energy the surface is at an angle to the laser designator,
spillover is capable of providing scattered the angle of strongest reflection is predictable
reflections off objects near the target (Figure (Figure II-6).
II-4).
i. Vertical Reflection. The vertical angles of
h. Target Reflection. Most surfaces mirrorlike or scattered reflections must also be
produce a mixture of mirrorlike and scattered considered when looking at a target’s reflecting
reflections. Laser energy is reflected in an surface from the side. Detectable reflected
arc but is strongest at the angle at which it energy will be strongest at a predicted
would be reflected if the surface were a reflectance angle (Figure II-7). Optimum laser
mirror. If the laser designator is spot height depends on specific weapons, the
perpendicular to a surface, the reflection can type of delivery, and target characteristics.
be seen from all angles on the designated side, Some weapons (PAVEWAY II, for example) lose
but can be detected best near the laser substantial energy as they descend, and tend to
designator-to-target line (Figure II-5). When fall short of the target. Since laser seekers are
LASER SPILLOVER
Laser
Figure II-4. Laser Spillover
TARGET REFLECTIONS
(PERPENDICULAR)
Laser
Figure II-5. Target Reflections (Perpendicular)
II-3
Chapter II
TARGET REFLECTIONS
(ANGULAR)
Laser
Figure II-6. Target Reflections (Angular)
VERTICAL REFLECTIONS
(DETECTABLE)
Laser
Figure II-7. Vertical Reflections (Detectable)
normally above the horizon, the general rule is aligned so that reflection is strongest where
to aim the laser designator at the top third of the seeker is looking (Figure II-9); however,
the target. this does not guarantee target acquisition.
j. Podium Effect. A “podium” effect can l. Target Material. Certain materials

also block a seeker if it cannot see the reflect laser energy better than others (e.g.,
reflecting surface (Figure II-8). This may the reflection of laser energy off water is 2
occur if an aircraft launches an LGW at a percent; olive-drab metal [dirty] 2 to 30
target, and then turns so the laser spot moves percent; concrete, 10 to 15 percent; asphalt,
to the side of the target and out of view of the 10 to 25 percent; unpolished aluminum, 55
LGW seeker. percent; vegetation, 30 to 70 percent; brick,
55 to 90 percent). For targets with higher
k. Reflection in a Chosen Direction. A reflectivity, the probability of a laser seeker
laser seeker may be heading to the target picking up the laser spot is increased. The
from a known direction. For maximum precise amount of laser energy reflected from
effectiveness, the designator should be a target is difficult to determine.

PODIUM EFFECT
Laser Laser Spot
1 LGW
Figure II-8. Podium Effect
REFLECTIONS IN A CHOSEN DIRECTION
Laser
Figure II-9. Reflections in a Chosen Direction
m. False Seeker Lock-on. Laser seekers

may occasionally lock-on to other reflected WARNING: This does not guarantee
energy instead of the target. Even in optimum that the laser seeker will not lock onto
conditions the seeker may incorrectly lock the laser designator.
onto the LTD or the atmospheric scatter
present along the laser beam. In this case, a Generally LST-equipped aircraft can
seeker is most likely to detect stray energy operate throughout the optimal attack zone
only in the immediate vicinity of the without hazard to the ground personnel
designator. To help to minimize seeker lock- operating the LTD. However in some
on of the designator position due to LOS with situations, LSTs have shifted from the
the LTD optical port, the designator should designated target to the laser source (LTD)
be masked from the seeker field of view. while the aircraft is operating in the 120 degree
The designator can be masked by terrain, attack zone. For this reason, aircrews must
vegetation, or means of a temporary screen not use LSTs as the sole source for target
such as blankets or a tarp. verification. Aircrews should verify that they
II-5
Chapter II
are attacking the target through additional to lock due to one or more factors: (1)
means (such as visual description, non-laser Failure of designator; (2) The laser
target mark, or other related methods). When designator and LGW are not set to the
the seeker’s progress can be monitored by same code; (3) Low power of
watching the airborne LST-equipped aircraft, designator; (4) Poor aiming of
it may be possible to detect an improper lock- designator; (5) Aircraft LST or LGW is
on in time to prevent a mishap by aborting inoperative; and/or (6) Aircraft LST or
the aircraft’s weapon launch or turning off the LGW position is such that the LTD, laser
designator prior to the weapon’s launch and/ beam, and target are not in the seeker
or release, resulting in an aborted delivery. FOV.
Once the weapon has been released,
terminating the laser designation will not • Prevention of these errors
ensure the safety of friendly forces. By
eliminating the LGW’s guidance source (the •• LDOs should generally aim at the
laser spot), the weapon will simply continue center of mass or in such a way as to avoid
to fly a ballistic profile in the direction of over spill.
release. This action may, in fact, further
endanger friendly forces, especially if they are •• Ensure that the LTD and LGW are on
located between weapon release position and the same laser code.
the initial laser spot.
•• When external designators are used,
• Lock-on Errors for All Types of ensure that the LGW and/or LST has the
Ordnance (Free-Fall, Forward Firing proper geometry to keep the illuminated
(Aerial), and Ground Launched target in its FOV.
Projectiles).
•• Aircraft attack headings should be
•• Aircraft LST or LGW locks on to close to the laser designator-target line,
designator. (1) The designator is the only but outside a 10 degree zone on either
return in the LST or LGW field of view side of this line
(FOV) or (2) Aircraft LST or LGW sees
multiple points along the laser beam (to See Chapter III, “Procedures,”
include the LTD). The LTD is the last paragraph 1c for further discussion.
significant pulse from the aircraft LST
or LGW. •• If possible, ground designator
operators should screen the sides of the
•• Aircraft LST or LGW locks on to designator position (out to several
backscatter. Backscatter and/or spillover meters in front) using vegetation, tarps,
energy is of sufficient intensity in a and other related materials.
portion of the laser beam to cause the
aircraft LST or LGW to lock on. n. Laser Boresight. If the laser energy
Position of lock-on is at the last and sighting mechanism of the designator
significant pulse (furthest in distance are not matched to the same point (i.e., the
from the LST or LGW) of the minimum target), mission success will be impaired.
acceptable level of intensity to cause to
Some ground designators do not have a means
lock. to check or correct boresight in the field.
Others, like the laser marker night vision sight
•• Aircraft LST or LGW fails to lock-on for use on the AN/PEQ-1 and AN/PEQ-1A
to anything. Aircraft LST or LGW fails special operations laser marker (SOFLAM)

systems, make it possible to field check the reduced visibility, current laser systems
boresight at operational ranges at night. provide signal transmission ranges only
Employment of newer daylight filters allow slightly greater than visual range.
the field check at short to moderate ranges in
the daytime. • Darkness. Laser-energy transmission is
unaffected by darkness, but darkness
o. Entrapment. Entrapment is the makes locating, identifying, and tracking
absorption of laser-radiated energy from targets more difficult for the LDO. Night
any direction. For example, energy directed sights for laser designators enhance
into the mouth of a tunnel, a dark window, or operator target identification and
the tread wheels of a tank may be absorbed engagement during night battlefield
rather than reflected, preventing seeker operations. However, not all hand-held
acquisition. LTDs are adaptable for night sights and,
therefore, night vision capabilities on
p. Spot Jitter. Spot jitter is the result of some LTDs may be limited.
motion of the designator, or of the beam
developed by the designator, around the • The Obscured Battlefield. Smoke, dust,
intended aimpoint. This motion may result and other particulates in the air may
in a laser-spot bouncing movement on the attenuate or reflect the laser beam,
target that increases with the designator thereby preventing reflection from the
distance from the target. target of sufficient energy for lock-on by
LSTs or LGWs. Laser energy reflected
2. Environmental from such particles may also present a
Considerations false target to the tracker or the munitions.
Backscatter refers to a portion of the laser
Several environmental factors can inhibit energy that is scattered back in the
successful laser designation operations. direction of the seeker by an obscurant.
Tactics and techniques must, therefore, take Since backscatter energy competes with
these factors into consideration (See Appendix the reflected energy from the target, a
A, “Laser Equipment Descriptions,” for seeker may attempt to lock onto the
details). obscurant rather than the target. LDOs
can reduce the effect of enemy obscurants
a. Line of Sight. Unrestricted LOS must by following some simple rules of thumb.
exist between the designator and the target Positioning is a key to reducing the
and between the target and the LST or LGW. degradation obscurants imposed on
laser performance. Possible considerations
b. Visibility Degradation are positioning lasers on flanks or on high
ground where smoke is likely to be less
• Clouds and/or Fog. Clouds and fog heavy along the LOS and repositioning
attenuate laser energy and degrade the from an obscured to a non-obscured
ability of LSTs and LGWs to see the spot. position. Using multiple lasers and
Since the laser spot is only acquired after transferring the mission from an obscured
the bomb comes out of the cloud, laser- laser to a non-obscured laser are other
energy acquisition time is short; possible tactics to counter enemy
therefore, ballistic accuracy is essential. obscurants.
Typical minimum ceilings and times of
flight can be found in appropriate system • Nonreflecting or Refracting Optical
operating manuals. In conditions of Surface Targets. Tunnels and other
II-7
Chapter II
targets that have no capability to reflect • Heat Vapor. When lasing targets during
laser energy cannot be directly laser the hottest portions of the day, heat vapor
designated. Instead, the designator must may have an adverse effect on the beam.
be aimed at a nearby reflecting surface The beam may be refracted in causing
that will give satisfactory weapon degraded target designation.
effectiveness against the intended target.
For example, aiming the laser slightly 3. Seeker Characteristics
above a tunnel opening would allow a
weapon to impact at that critical point. a. Seeker Code. Laser seekers look for
laser designator energy on a specific PRF
• Obstructions. Optimum positioning code. Designators and seekers must work
of ground laser designators is essential. together as a team on a specific code because
Obstructions such as trees, limbs, leaves, seekers will not detect designators set on other
and grass between the designator and codes.
target may prevent a clear, unobstructed
view for the use of ground laser See Chapter IV, “Laser Codes”.
designators. Jungle operations could thus
preclude the use of ground designators b. Field of View. All seekers have a
and limit the effectiveness of airborne limited FOV, and therefore must be oriented
laser designators (ALDs). so that the target falls within that FOV to
see the laser designator spot.
• Temperature Extremes. Extreme
temperatures affect batteries, such as the c. Acquisition Time. To avoid detection
NiCad batteries used for the ground/ by enemy forces and conserve battery energy,
vehicle laser locator designator LDOs may limit the amount of time they
(G/VLLD) and modular universal laser designate a target. Laser seekers and
equipment (MULE) system, the NiCads munitions, therefore, could have a very short
used with the compact laser designator, time to detect the laser spot and guide to the
and those used with the LTD. For target. LGWs require a minimum amount of
example, cold-soaked batteries have a time to acquire and track a target. By limiting
reduced capability to power lasers. the amount of laser designation time, LDOs
SOFLAM is operable using BA-5590 may significantly degrade LGW accuracy,
lithium batteries, which are much less resulting in failure to achieve objectives and
susceptible to “cold soaked” limitations increased potential for fratricide.
on run time. Additionally, LST-equipped aircraft may not
have enough time to acquire the target under
• Solar Saturation. Laser seekers short designation time conditions. Required
look for a spot of IR energy that acquisition time is mission-specific, and
stands out from the background. When should be pre-briefed.
the seeker dome is cracked, pitted, or
glazed, the seeker may detect so much d. Seeker Sensitivity. Different laser
IR energy from the sun that it cannot guidance and acquisition systems require
discriminate the laser spot. This different amounts of reflected laser energy to
condition is most likely to be a problem operate. For example, under ideal conditions,
when using low-angle LGWs or LST- a G/VLLD must be within 5 kilometers (km)
equipped aircraft, especially against of an average stationary target to provide
targets above the horizon after optimum cannon-launched guided projectiles
sunrise and before sunset. (CLGPs) (COPPERHEAD) guidance

Aircrews should not use LSTs as the sole source for target verification,
since the LST may lock-on to the LTD.
whereas, under similar conditions, a PAVE designation must be timed to optimize

PENNY (US Air Force [USAF] pod- LGM or CLGP terminal guidance. If the
contained) LST can acquire a LTD spot at a laser designator is turned on late, the LGM or
distance as great as 30 km. CLGP may miss. Turning the laser designator
on early will not cause a miss, but it might
4. Seeker Types give the enemy information to locate the laser
designator.
a. Airborne LST. An airborne LST points
out laser designated targets to the aircrew, who c. Laser-Guided Bombs (LGBs). LGBs
can then attack the target with any weapons must also be released so that the target is
on board. Aircrews may require this target within the seeker’s FOV. If the aircraft does
cue because of the difficulty in seeing not have an LST, a visible target mark may
camouflaged targets at long ranges and high be required as an aiming cue. Because the
aircraft speeds. LSTs require the laser pulse laser pulse codes are preset on most LGBs
code to match the designator. LSTs have a and cannot be changed while airborne, the
limited FOV that requires the aircrew to align LDO must use the code set in the bomb.
the aircraft accurately so the seeker is able to Whenever possible, the aircrew should
acquire the laser energy. Service tactics and communicate directly with the LDO so the
procedures manuals provide detailed guidance laser can be turned on at the best time.
on aircraft positioning for laser spot trackers. Delaying designation until the last 8 seconds
Aircrews should not use LSTs as the sole of weapon flight may be required in some
source for target verification, since the LST cases (e.g., PAVEWAY II LGBs). Delayed
may lock-on to atmospheric backscatter or the lasing should not be required for low-level
LTD. laser-guided bombs (LLLGB). See paragraph
8 for a detailed discussion of delaying laser.
b. Laser-Guided Missiles (LGMs) and
COPPERHEAD CLGPs. LGMs and 5. Target Types
CLGPs must be precisely aimed to see the
laser energy on the target. Based on the LGM- Targets on the battlefield are classified as
or CLGP-predicted time of flight, the laser either area or point targets.
II-9
Chapter II
a. Area Targets. An area target covers designators at long standoff ranges could
an area rather than a single point. Area preclude effective point-target designation.
targets include infantry formations, field Wind direction is an important consideration
artillery positions, assembly areas, motor for LDO positioning for target areas where
pools, command posts, aircraft parking ramps, multiple weapon releases are anticipated. LDOs
should position themselves and select order of
logistics sites, and other targets that are large
in size or surface area. They are normally target attacks so that successive targets will not
neutralized with a large volume of fire be obscured by smoke and debris from previous
delivered throughout the target area. Area weapons impacts (i.e., the LTD should be set
targets may be designated for missions using upwind of targets and the targets designated from
laser designators to designate either specific the farthest downwind first to the most upwind
last). Target orientation in relation to the LTD
targets within an area or the general area itself.
is critical in determining the aircraft attack
b. Point Targets. A point target requires direction based on the direction of the reflected
accurate placement of munitions in order energy (Refer to Figures II-5 through II-8).
to neutralize or destroy it. Tanks, guns,
bunkers, surface-to-air missile systems, 7. Offset Laser Designation
bridges, communications sites, and watercraft
are examples of point targets. Laser When enemy countermeasures or laser alarms
designators greatly enhance the ability of the are likely to affect laser operations, offset
observer or controller to engage and destroy designation may be used. When offset
or neutralize point targets. designating, the laser designator is aimed at an
object near the target to provide an approximate
6. Designator Operator target mark or initial aim point. The LDO
Positioning Considerations should select an object with good reflection, such
as a building, to enhance acquisition.
Laser weapons demand increased
emphasis on basic observer and controller a. Offset Procedures. When designating
techniques. Laser designators are normally for an LST aircraft delivering unguided
employed by Army fire support teams (FISTs) weapons, an offset aimpoint may be used.
and combat observation and lasing teams Accurate bearing and distance from the offset
(COLTs), USAF tactical air control parties to the target and target description should be
(TACPs), naval gunfire shore fire control passed to the aircrew.
parties, terminal air control parties, Marine
Corps forward observers (FOs) on the ground, b. Shift Procedures. When offset
certain Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine designating for an airborne LST, the aircrew
Corps aircraft equipped with designators, and may request the laser to be shifted to the actual
special operations forces (SOF). To enhance target for LGW employment. When directed
observer and LDO team survivability, terrain, by the aircrew, the designator is smoothly
cover and concealment, and standoff distance moved from the offset aim point to the target.
must be properly used when observing enemy
avenues of approach and chokepoints. The 8. Delayed Laser Designation
vulnerability of LDOs, especially ALDs, for LGBs
must also be considered when designating
point targets like tanks, armored personnel Delayed lasing is normally associated with
carriers and guns. When using standoff PAVEWAY II. This technique is used to
procedures for survivability, the LDO must preserve LGB energy during low level
be aware that the beam divergence of laser releases to keep the LGB from impacting

short. To avoid missing the target, the laser Delayed lasing can be utilized in conjunction
designator must be turned on at a time that with a HELLFIRE engagement where there
will permit the bomb to follow an optimum are low cloud ceilings in the target area.
glide path. Lasing too early will cause the Additionally, delayed lasing will benefit the
weapon to guide on, and turn down toward designation unit because the laser will be
the target prematurely, losing valuable energized a less period of time, thereby giving
energy, and will cause impacts short of the the enemy less time to react if they have laser
target. The aircrew will know the proper warning receivers. Like all LGW engagements,
moment to turn the laser on to meet the positive two-way communications greatly
minimum lase time for proper guidance. increase the chances of a successful
Therefore, if required, communications engagement when using this technique.
channels must be clear so the aircrew can
call for laser activation. In the absence of 10. Redundant Laser
positive two-way communications, target Designation
designation time and duration must be
predicted on the basis of a known time-on- Redundant laser designation is a
target (weapon impact time) and specific technique employing two or more laser
LGB laser requirements. The specific LGB designators in different locations but on the
and the delivery tactics of the fighter or attack same code to designate a single target for a
aircraft will dictate the minimum designation single LGW. Note: This technique is not
time required to guide the weapon to the recommended. Redundant laser designation
intended target. PAVEWAY II LGBs, for may offer some advantages when attacking
example, when delivered from a low-altitude high-priority targets. The primary
loft maneuver, will restrict the designation of advantage is that if one designator
the target to the final 8 seconds of the weapon’s malfunctions or is compromised, the seeker
flight. Delivery of a PAVEWAY II from a may still acquire the reflected energy from
high-dive delivery (30 to 60 degrees) or the other designator and continue guiding to
medium altitude level delivery allows for the target. In the case of moving targets, two
either continuous or delayed lasing, but in all designators may preclude a guidance failure
cases the laser should be on for the final 8 as a result of temporary blockage. The danger
seconds of bomb time-of-fall. with redundant laser designation is that the
presence of two laser designators may cause
For more information on delayed lasing's the LGW to impact where it is not intended.
association with PAVEWAY II, see Appendix One of the designators may produce
A, “Laser Equipment Descriptions,” Annex backscatter which pulls the LGW away from
T, “Laser-Guided Bombs (PAVEWAY II) (Air the target. If one of the designators is outside
Force, Navy, and Marine Corps),” and the 20-degree safety zone, there is an increased
Appendix D, “LGB And LLLGB Delivery chance of the LGW guiding on it instead of
Profiles.” See Appendix D, “LGB And the laser spot. This could also happen if one
LLLGB Delivery Profiles,” for a description of the designators is significantly forward of
of LGB and LLLGB delivery profiles. the other. For these reasons, the advantages
of redundant laser designators must be
9. Delayed Laser Designation weighed against the disadvantages. The use
for HELLFIRE of this tactic is discouraged, and should not
be routinely employed.
Designation delay can be used in
HELLFIRE engagement when the missile is See Chapter III, “Procedures” for more
fired in a lock-on after launch (LOAL) mode. information.
II-11
Chapter II
11. Laser Systems Descriptions munitions, and discusses their general
functions and characteristics.
Appendix A, “Laser Equipment Descriptions,”
lists current unclassified laser systems and

CHAPTER III
PROCEDURES
“A superiority of fire, and therefore a superiority in directing and delivering
fire and in making use of fire, will become the main factors upon which the
efficiency of a force will depend.”
Marshal of France Ferdinand Foch

Precepts and Judgements
1. General Procedures geometry. The attack heading must

allow the aircrew to acquire the
a. Laser Designation Position. In reflected laser energy. Due to the
selecting a laser designation position, the LDO possibility of false target indications,
must consider LOS, expected munitions attack headings should avoid the target-
trajectory, tactical situation, cover and to-laser designator safety zone, unless the
concealment, weather, and communications tactical situation dictates otherwise.
requirements. The LDO should select
positions that are near expected locations • The safety zone (to help minimize the
of high priority targets while minimizing backscatter problem) is defined as a cone
risks to friendly forces. If redundant (generally 20 degrees) whose apex is at
designators are going to be employed, mutual the target and extends equidistant either
support and coordination with maneuver side of the target-to-laser designator line
elements should be addressed. The observer (See Figure III-1). This cone has a
or controller team should determine its vertical limit of 20 degrees. Aircraft may
position as accurately as possible; survey engage targets from above the cone, as
support should be utilized if available. The long as they remain above the 20 degrees.
team can also determine its geographic The minimum safe altitude for aircraft
position by employing GPS, or by using a will obviously vary with the aircraft’s
MULE or G/VLLD to establish range, distance from the target (See Figure
azimuth, and vertical angle in relation to a III-2). The aircrew may have difficulty
known location. determining how high they need to fly to
remain above the 20 degrees; aircraft
See Chapter V, “Safety.” should therefore remain well above these
altitudes or remain outside the 20 degree
b. Employment. When employing LSTs safety zone altogether.
with ground laser target designators and
LGWs, the following procedures will be used. WARNING: The safety zone is not an
absolute safety measure. In some
• Attack headings and laser-to-target lines situations, LSTs have acquired the
are normally pre-coordinated between atmospheric scatter in front of the
the LDO and LGW-employing aircrew laser designator even though the LSTs
(or their representative). During close were outside the safety zone.
air support (CAS) operations, terminal
controllers can recommend an attack • The optimal attack zone is inside a 120
cone and/or final attack heading or give degree cone whose apex is at the target
designator target line (DTL) and allow and extends to 60 degrees on either side
the aircrew to determine the correct of the target-to-laser designator line and
III-1
Chapter III
AIRCRAFT DELIVERY OF LASER-

GUIDED MUNITIONS
TARGET
NE
TY ZO 45 O
SAFE
O
10
10 O 60 O
DESIGNATOR BEST ACQUISITION
AREA (10-45 OO)
SAFEST ACQUISITION
AREA (10-60 OO)
NOT TO SCALE
Figure III-1. Aircraft Delivery of Laser-Guided Munitions
is outside the 20 degree safety zone. This designator operator may be reduced by
leaves an ideal attack zone of 50 degrees increasing the delivery aircraft altitude
on either side of the safety zone. See and/or offset angle or the designator-to-
Figure III-3 for a different perspective target distance. While increasing the
on the safety zone and attack zones. delivery offset angle improves safety, it
may degrade the LST’s ability to acquire
• Generally, LST-equipped aircraft can the laser spot. The best attack area is
operate throughout the optimal attack therefore from 10 to 45 degrees on either
zone without hazard to ground personnel side of the target-to-laser designator line.
operating LTDs. Risk to the laser In some situations, LSTs have locked onto
MINIMUM SAFE ALTITUDES FOR AIRCRAFT ABOVE THE 20° SAFETY ZONE
Distance from
500m 1km/.6 mile 1.6km/1 mile 5km/3 mile 8km/5 mile 16km/10 mile
Target
Minimum Safe
600 ft 1200 ft 2000 ft 5800 ft 9700 ft 19,300 ft
Altitude
Figure III-2. Minimum Safe Altitudes for Aircraft Above the 20º Safety Zone
III-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

Procedures
EXAMPLE OF SAFETY ZONE AND

OPTIMAL ATTACK ZONES
L = Low risk
M = Moderate risk
Laser seeker/
weapon platform H = High risk
L
60o
Laser seeker/
weapon platform Acquisition
prohibited area
45 M
FOV
Acquisition H
area
Laser seeker/ 200 Safety Zone
weapon platform Avoid weapon release unless
prohibited
M the situation necessitates
L
Laser target designator
NOTE: Seeker field of view (FOV) must

not encompass area of laser designator.
Sample: Plan View of Safety Exclusion Zone for Ground Laser Designator
Figure III-3. Example of Safety Zone and Optimal Attack Zones
the laser source while operating in the 120 the incoming laser weapon, the LDO
degree attack zone. should aim the laser at a point on the
target believed to be within LOS of the
CAUTION: For this reason, aircrews seeker. If the target is well concealed,
should not use LSTs as the sole source the laser spot may be aimed at some
for target verification. overhead or nearby object. However, this
method is not preferred and should be
Aircrews should verify that they are used only when the situation demands
attacking the correct target through additional an immediate attack on the target.
means (such as visual description, terrain
features, non-laser target marks). Whenever • If a designated mobile target moves out
possible, planned attacks should avoid of the view of the LDO, it may still be
placing the designator in the FOV of the possible to salvage the attack. A point
LST or LGW. near the target may be designated until
the target again comes into view or until
c. Terrain and Target Concealment designation responsibility can be passed
to another operator who has the target in
• If the LDO suspects that the target may sight. It is also possible to move the spot
be partially masked from the view of to another target in the immediate
III-3
Chapter III
vicinity. If the LST or LGW has already authentication codes necessary for joint
locked on, the spot should be moved communications on non-secure nets.
slowly and without interrupting laser
output to the new target location. 2. Laser Designation for
Artillery
CAUTION: Moving the laser spot
may seriously degrade mission a. Ground Designator Procedures
effectiveness or increase the risk of
mission failure. • The FIST, Army COLT, Marine Corps
FO team terminal air control parties,
d. LDO Survivability. To enhance USAF TACPs, and SOF use laser
survivability, the LDO should keep designators to designate stationary and
designation time to the minimum necessary moving point or area targets for attack
for the weapon or seeker being used. This by LGWs and aircraft with LSTs.
reduces the time available for the enemy to
detect, locate, and act to suppress the laser • The maneuver commander specifies the
designator. priority of target engagements with
LGWs in the fire-support plan. The
e. Laser Designation Timing. Successful commander’s priorities depend on the
use of LGWs or LSTs depends on the ability situation and range to targets. Depending
of the LDO to designate the target at the proper on the situation, the commander may
time. Laser designation must be closely distribute fires by using engagement
coordinated with the delivery of an LGW. areas delineated by terrain features or
Timing requirements should take into account sectors bounded by azimuth and range
the following. limits. For example, the commander may
specify that all point targets beyond a
• Weapons requiring lock-on before launch certain linear terrain feature have priority
(LOBL). for attack by LGWs.
• Weapons allowing LOAL. •• After the maneuver commander’s

guidance is given, the fire support
• Lofted weapons. coordinator (FSC) will select planned
aiming points to facilitate rapid attack
• Direct-fire weapons. of targets in the engagement area. The
aiming points are transmitted to the next
• Remaining LTD battery life. higher FSC, who resolves duplication
and forwards the target list to the
• Laser radiation time constraints due to supporting artillery unit.
overheating.
•• During offensive operations, the range
• Susceptibility to laser countermeasures. of some laser designators allows LDOs
to remain in an overwatch position at the
f. Component I n t e r o p e r a b i l i t y. beginning of the attack and then to
Component operations personnel must support from successive positions as
ensure that laser designators and delivery units the advance continues, alternating their
have compatible secure communications movement to ensure continuous coverage
equipment and common secure codes or the of the forward elements. After the

Procedures
objective is taken and consolidation is the observer to determine the target
under way, the laser designator is rapidly location and transmit a call for fire.
repositioned to designate retreating point Attacking a moving target of opportunity
targets and respond to possible is more complicated because it requires
counterattacks. the observer to predict where the target
will be (intercept point) by estimating the
•• During defensive operations, the FIST target speed and direction of movement
coordinates the location of the laser and comparing it to the firing unit mission
designators with the company processing time. The observer uses this
commander. information to determine the proper time
(trigger point) to initiate a call for fire so
b. Airborne Laser Designator that the round impacts at the target
Procedures. The greater mobility of ALDs location.
enables the LDO to more easily acquire targets
and maintain a constant LOS with them. • Planned Targets. Planned targets are
Aerial observers use the same calls for fire as developed as a result of the fire support
ground observers. They obtain a gun-target planning process. This permits optimal
line from the fire direction center (FDC) and observer positioning and allows the
position themselves near the gun-target line observer to pre-determine intercept,
to increase the probability of target trigger points, and COPPERHEAD
engagement by CLGPs. In a heavy enemy engagement areas utilizing footprint
air defense situation, the ALD should stand templates.
off as far as possible; in these situations, the
use of suppression of enemy air defenses • Effective employment of
(SEAD) missions should be planned. All COPPERHEAD is enhanced by
other procedures remain the same as those techniques used by the fire support officer
used for ground designators. (FSO) to position the COLT, FIST, or FO
before target engagement and by
c. CLGP and/or “COPPERHEAD” observer techniques at the observation
Employment post. Steps involved in optimizing
the potential employment of
• Optimum use of COPPERHEAD is COPPERHEAD are as follows.
against multiple targets in large target
arrays outside the range of maneuver •• Position the observer to most
direct fire weapon systems effectively accomplish the commander’s
(approximately 3,000 meters). target attack guidance.
COPPERHEAD targets can be engaged
as either planned targets or targets of •• Ensure that a target engagement angle
opportunity. Planned targets are T (the angle between the gun-target line
preferred due to the complexity of and the observer-target line) is no greater
technical fire direction computations than 800 mils, as this would adversely
and ammunition handling procedures in affect COPPERHEAD targeting.
the firing units. Most often, the target of
opportunity technique is used only during •• Position the observer within the range
offensive operations. capabilities of the laser designator. The
maximum effective distance for the G/
• Targets of Opportunity. Attacking a VLLD is 3,000 meters for moving targets
stationary target of opportunity requires and 5,000 meters for stationary targets.
III-5
Chapter III
The maximum effective distance for the 3. Laser Designation for CAS
MULE is 2,000 meters for moving
targets and 3,500 meters for stationary This section discusses procedures for using
targets. laser designators for CAS missions and
includes: (1) Adding laser designation
•• Construct a visibility diagram from the procedures to the CAS briefing and aircrew
selected position when it is occupied. reporting procedures; (2) Establishing a
means of communication between the forward
•• Employ the appropriate COPPERHEAD air controller (FAC) and FO to coordinate laser
footprint. Footprints are roughly oval in designation of targets when the FAC is not
shape and form around the target collocated with the laser designator; and (3)
location. The optimum limit of Establishing standard terminology for laser-
engagement is within the boundaries of related activities.
the footprint. Although COPPERHEAD
can maneuver outside the limits of the For a detailed explanation of CAS
footprint, the greatest chance of hitting employment procedures and tactics, refer to
the target is when it is at or near the JP 3-09.3, “Joint Tactics, Techniques, and
location sent to the FDC by the observer. Procedures for Close Air Support (CAS),” and
The outer boundary of the footprint Service-specific CAS publications.
represents a 50-percent probability of a
target-hit; the location sent to the FDC a. Target Acquisition Considerations
has a target-hit probability substantially
higher than 50 percent. The size and • Using laser designators for CAS can
shape of the footprint are affected by provide a fast and accurate means of
cloud height, the range from the firing marking targets for both LGWs and
unit to the target, visibility, and the angle LST-equipped aircraft. Using target
of fire (high or low). Footprint templates coordinates, smoke, and illuminating
have been developed to accurately flares complements laser designator
portray the engagement area of each target-marking and improves the chances
adjusting point. Each footprint template for successful first pass target acquisition.
has the oval shaped footprint (to 1:50,000 Without cueing, aircraft may be pointed
scale) based on the firing unit range to too far away from the target to acquire
the target and cloud height, and is marked the laser spot. Therefore, when the
with a letter identification code. tactical situation allows, supplemental
marking is recommended to avoid
•• Designate the target continuously losing sorties or having to re-attack. Care
during the last 13 seconds of the should be taken to avoid obscuring the
COPPERHEAD’s flight. target with the secondary mark.
NOTE: For a detailed explanation of • Aircraft equipped with an LST are able
Observer-FDC COPPERHEAD to detect reflected laser energy. These
procedures see Appendix B, aircraft include: A/OA-1O, non-radar
“Procedures Guide.” equipped AV-8B, selected F/A-18C/D
(when LST is externally mounted as a
•• If the observer does not acknowledge store), AH-64, MH-60L, and AH-6
the “LASER ON” call, the FDC will aircraft. LST-equipped aircraft can use
continue to transmit “LASER ON” until detected laser energy to acquire and
rounds impact. attack both area and point targets. The

Procedures
extreme accuracy of laser target understand and accept the consequences
designation assists fighter and attack of a possible failure of the weapon to
aircraft crews in positively identifying the properly guide to the target. The final
correct target and significantly reduces the decision to release standoff LGWs
possibility of an aircrew misidentifying from behind friendly lines in a CAS
friendly positions as the target. environment rests with the maneuver
commander.
• LST-equipped aircraft should notify the
terminal controller of their capability. c. Concept of Employment
The terminal controller should then pass
the laser code to the attacking aircrew. • Tactical Air Control Party. The TACP
In the case of LGBs, the aircrew will is the Marine Corps or Air Force tactical
inform the terminal controller of the air control agency located with the
weapon’s laser code because the LGB supported ground unit. Its functions are
code must be set prior to takeoff. If a providing air liaison, advising on the use
forward air controller (airborne) of air assets, and coordinating and
(FAC[A]) is being utilized, coordination controlling CAS missions to support the
will be made between the ground ground commander’s scheme of
controller, FAC(A), and the attacking maneuver. Three Marine naval aviators
aircrew. Coordination will be critical if or naval flight officers are typically
the laser designator is not physically assigned to each Marine Corps TACP:
located with the terminal controller. A one serves as the battalion air officer who
complex example would be a non-laser works in the battalion’s fire support
capable FAC(A) supporting a non-laser coordination center (FSCC), and the
capable TACP, who is coordinating with other two are FACs and usually deploy
the FO who has a designator. The with the forward rifle companies. The
FAC(A) will subsequently pass the code Air Force TACP at battalion level
to the TACP, FIST, and/or FO. The normally consists of one air liaison
Marine Corps FAC will pass the code to officer (ALO) and two enlisted tactical
the FO only if the FO is tasked to air command and control specialists, at
designate the target. least one of whom is an enlisted terminal
attack controller (ETAC). TACPs
b. Standoff LGW Delivery assigned to light battalions may have up
to five controllers. The ALO and ETACs
• Target acquisition is usually followed by provide terminal CAS control.
the delivery of LGWs. Some LGWs,
such as laser MAVERICK, and LLLGB • FIST and FO Procedures for CAS.
and/or PAVEWAY III, can be released at When possible, the Air Force FAC
standoff ranges that may reduce the should be located with the FIST, and the
delivery aircraft’s exposure to enemy air FIST should place a radio close to the
defense systems and increase aircraft LDO (Marine Corps FACs may or may
survivability. not be collocated with their FOs).
Placing a radio close to the LDO will
• Once released, the weapon homes in on minimize the need to relay laser calls
reflected laser energy. between the pilot and the FIST. At times,
the Air Force FAC will not be with the
• Like any air delivered weapon system, FIST and may not be able to see the
the maneuver commander must fully target. The FAC will control the aircraft
III-7
Chapter III
and coordinate laser designation with the the joint force air component
FIST. When the FAC and FIST are not commander’s joint air operations center.
together, aircrews may make laser calls
directly to the FIST on a frequency • Other Special Operations Forces.
assigned by the FAC in the remarks Other SOF units, primarily Army special
section of the CAS briefing (in forces detachments, Ranger units, and
accordance with [IAW] Joint Pub 3-09.3, Navy sea-air-land teams (SEALs), are
“Joint Tactics, Techniques, and trained and equipped to conduct
Procedures for Close Air Support terminal control operations under the
[CAS]”). In situations where the Marine SOF core mission of direct action. This
Corps FAC is not in an optimum position could be for CAS or laser designation for
to designate the target, the FAC may an interdiction attack of high-payoff
control the aircraft with the FO actually targets deep in enemy territory. SOF
designating the target. The Marine Corps forces can emplace remote command-
FAC and FO can communicate and activated designators which can be
coordinate using the TACP local net; activated when needed.
however, prior coordination is required.
• Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special
• FAC Not Present. There may be Operations Capable) (MEU[SOC]).
situations where the FAC is not present, MEU(SOC)s are the Marine Corps
or cannot see the battlefield (e.g., security primary forward-deployed Marine air-
operations in front of friendly positions, ground task force (MAGTF). The
night operations). In these situations, a MEU(SOC)s numerous capabilities
qualified fixed- or rotary-wing FAC(A) include the ability to conduct laser
may direct the terminal control of CAS designation for an attack against high-
in coordination with the TACP. In the payoff targets. The laser designation
absence of a TACP or airborne FAC, the capability is resident in both
FIST can also provide emergency MEU(SOC)’s night targeting system
control of CAS. However, under these equipped AH-1W Cobra and the direct
circumstances, the requesting land action (DA) platoon of the force
commander assumes responsibility for reconnaissance detachment. The DA
the results of the attack. platoon is capable of surface, subsurface,
and parachute insert. As such it can
• Special Operations Terminal Attack designate targets for MAGTF, joint,
Controller (SOTAC). SOTACs are coalition, or allied aircraft while
qualified members of Air Force special operating deep within enemy territory.
operations command special tactics
teams and are certified to conduct d. FAC Procedures
terminal attack control and laser
designation operations unilaterally or • FAC Responsibilities. The FAC should
with other US or coalition units in expect to use LST-equipped aircraft and
support of SOF missions. The joint force aircraft with LGWs. The FAC should
special operations component plan to use laser target designation to help
commander will track locations, LST-equipped aircraft identify the target
frequencies, and call signs of deployed quickly and accurately. Early planning
SOTACs and relay this information to by the FAC is required to ensure that
the special operations liaison element in the FIST or FO is ready for laser

Procedures
operations when the fighter or attack environment. Following the “LASER
aircraft first contacts the FAC. Thus, the ON” call, a “SHIFT” call will be used
FAC must have a thorough working to shift laser energy from the offset
knowledge of the capabilities of LST- position next to the target onto the
equipped aircraft and of aircraft- target itself. The “SHIFT” call, when
delivered LGWs. When conducting used, must be pre-briefed to replace the
CAS with lasers, always strive for “SPOT” call.
simple communications. Good
preplanning, accurate target location, and •• The aircrew calls “SPOT” when
reliable communications are essential. acquiring the laser spot, confirming to
Critical targets must be identified to the the FAC and the wingman that the aircraft
FAC (The joint CAS briefing format is or weapon laser seeker has identified a
listed in Appendix C, “CAS Briefing source of laser energy which may be the
Form [9-Line]”). designated target.
• Laser Designation Coordination •• For multiple aircraft in the same

attack, “SHIFT” calls may be used after
•• The laser designator may be turned the lead aircraft calls “SPOT” to direct
on for target acquisition, target the LDO to shift the laser to the next
identification, or employment of LGWs. aircraft’s target. This call is usually used
The following communication sequence for target acquisition in conjunction with
will be employed: (1) TEN SECONDS weapons not requiring terminal laser
(time until “LASER ON” call expected); guidance.
(2) LASER ON; (3) SHIFT (if
required); (4) SPOT; and (5) •• The last call in the sequence is
TERMINATE. “TERMINATE.” The pilot makes this
call to turn the laser off.
NOTE: The “10 SECONDS” call
means the aircrew wants the laser on • Turning the Laser Off. Minimizing the
in approximately 10 seconds. The FAC time a laser is on is important in a laser
relays the call to the LDO. The countermeasures environment and when
“LASER ON” call requires the FAC employing battery operated laser
(or FIST) to ensure that the LDO designators. Careful planning must be
designates the target immediately. The conducted when aircraft are attacking
situation will determine whether the in line or wedge formations to ensure
attacking aircrew or elements of the that the lead aircraft does not terminate
friendly ground forces will make these the laser before the wingman’s lock-on.
calls. When in trail, each aircraft may want to
make separate laser on and terminate
•• The FAC (or Army FIST) should calls, depending on their separation. The
acknowledge the “LASER ON” call. laser designator operator will turn the
The FAC may elect to turn the laser on designator off:
10 seconds after the “10 SECONDS” call
without hearing the “LASER ON” call •• When the “TERMINATE” call is
if problems are expected. heard;
•• Offset designation procedures may be •• When the weapon hits the target(s);
used in a laser countermeasures or
III-9
Chapter III
•• After 20 seconds (or longer, if •• Target coordinates;
requested) to conserve the laser’s battery.
•• Target elevation;
• Laser Countermeasures Environment.
When operating in a high laser •• Time-on-target LASER ON time and
countermeasures environment, the FAC LASER OFF time;
may have to coordinate laser
designation based on timing rather •• Laser code and DTL;
than radio calls. In such a case, the CAS
briefing includes the time to LASER ON. •• Target description;
The FAC would say, for example,
“LASER ON IN 4 MINUTES READY, •• Friendly location(s); and
READY, HACK.” Standardized
communications calls include: “LASER •• Threat.
ON AT 35” or “LASER ON IN 5+00,
HACK” (use of the atomic clock method e. LDO Procedures. The LDO must be
is preferred). Aircrew should extremely responsive to the aircrew’s
acknowledge the “HACK.” As required, “LASER ON” call. Unless using offset
FAC will give the LDO a similar briefing. designation procedures, the LDO must
The LDO will designate at the specified designate only one target and not move or
time and continue designating as search while the designator is on and aircraft
required. are in the area. Following the FAC’s
instructions explicitly will help prevent
• If No Spot Is Acquired. If no spot is confusion and miscoordination.
acquired, the FAC should refer to back-
up or CAS talk-on procedures. Post f. LST-Equipped Aircraft-Aided
ordnance delivery procedures follow Delivery of Non-Laser-Guided Weapons.
standard CAS practices. If a subsequent With an LST-equipped aircraft, the aircrew
attack is conducted, the FAC should can use the laser spot as an aid to visually
verify that the aircrew knows the location acquire the target. Delivering non-LGWs on
of the target and that the LDO and the well-camouflaged targets may require
LGW and/or LST are set on the same continuous designation to accurately deliver
laser code. If the weapons do not guide, strafing or ballistic ordnance.
the FAC should inform the aircrew. Re-
attacks should not be attempted in a high CAUTION: Aircrews should not use
threat environment. LSTs as the sole source for target
identification.
• Emission Control Procedures. Some
missions may require that laser target g. LGB and PAVEWAY II (and III). The
designation be accomplished in a radio laser code is set on the ground prior to launch
silence environment. For these missions, and cannot be changed by the aircrew in the
there will be an established time-over- air. The FAC will pass the LGB code to the
target window when the laser designator LDO.
will be turned on. Aircrews need, at a
minimum, the following information • Run-In. When planning the mission, the
prior to the mission: FAC must carefully select the run-in

Procedures
heading to ensure first pass delivery and weapon. If the bomb is released in a high
safety for friendly ground positions. angle loft, continuous lasing is possible
because the seeker won’t see the
• LGB Release. LGBs must be released designator until it apexes and starts down.
within the weapon’s delivery envelope. Again, only the ground commander
For best results, the aircrew must see can authorize a loft delivery from
the designated target. In some cases, behind friendly lines. The aircrew is
the attacking aircraft may have solely responsible for delivering a
sufficiently accurate bombing references weapon within guidance parameters.
from onboard navigation cues to permit Weapons delivered for optimum laser
releasing the bomb without the aircrew profiles are not necessarily optimized for
seeing the target. Because of the risk to unguided or ballistic trajectories that will
friendly ground forces, the FAC should permit target destruction without laser
avoid loft attacks with weapons release guidance.
behind friendly positions.
See Appendix D, “LGB And LLLGB
• Laser Call Coordination. Timely Delivery Profiles,” for examples of LGB
coordination of “LASER ON” and delivery profiles.
“TERMINATE” calls are essential to
effective LGB delivery, especially in a h. LLLGB/PAVEWAY III Delivery. The
CAS environment. Designating the target LLLGB/PAVEWAY III is an advanced LGB
too early may cause LGBs to guide too with a standoff delivery capability from all
soon and hit well short of the target. altitudes. This bomb has a wider FOV than
the PAVEWAY II, is not as delivery-parameter
• Standoff Delivery of LGBs. Delivery sensitive, and is not negatively affected by
of LGBs near friendly forces is a risky early laser designation. In fact, continuous
venture and requires extremely close lasing is best since it results in the best bomb
coordination between the delivery flight profile and provides the most time for
aircraft and FAC, attack helicopter, and lateral and/or wind corrections. After a proper
LDO. Because of the inherent risk to delivery, the LLLGB will maintain level flight
friendly ground troops, the ground while looking for reflected laser energy. If
commander requesting the support must the LLLGB does not detect reflected laser
authorize LGB standoff deliveries. If the energy, it will maintain level flight to continue
LGB guidance system detects reflected beyond the location of the designated target.
laser energy from the target designator Approach angles should be planned so that a
too soon after release, it tends to pull the long hit will not result in fratricide. Ground
LGW down below its required trajectory commander and aircrew responsibilities
and the bomb will hit well short of the remain unchanged.
target. For this type of attack, it is critical
to delay lasing, i.e., begin designating i. Laser-Guided Missile Delivery. FAC
the target only during the last part of procedures for delivering LGMs like
the bomb’s flight. The aircrew must call MAVERICK (AGM-65E) and HELLFIRE
“LASER ON” based upon its (AGM-114) are similar to those for delivering
computation of the bomb’s time of flight LGBs. The FAC’s role in planning the
to ensure safe and accurate terminal mission, briefing and getting the aircrew onto
guidance. The aircrew must know the correct run-in heading, and commencing
exactly where the target is and make a illumination of the target remains the same.
very accurate delivery and release of the However, one major difference exists — the
III-11
Chapter III
The lock-on and launch ranges of LGMs in good visibility may be beyond
the range a FAC is able to see and clear the aircraft.
lock-on and launch ranges of LGMs in good profile, release altitude, and fragmentation
visibility may be beyond the range a FAC is pattern for the munitions employed. Multiple
able to see and clear the aircraft. When the aircraft attacks on multiple targets require
aircraft has been acquired by the FAC, the increased coordination and planning.
FAC should ensure that the target’s position
in relation to the approaching aircraft is correct • Attacks on a Single Target. Single
(appears locked onto the target). aircraft employing LGWs may be able
to destroy a target. Multiple aircraft
j. Mixed Munitions Procedures. If the attacking a single target provide
aircraft is carrying both unguided bombs and redundancy and increased likelihood of
LGWs, consideration should be given to target destruction at the earliest possible
delivering the LGW on the first pass, before time. The aircraft may be in a trail or
ordnance-generated visibility degradation can other tactical formation. A single
occur. Successfully delivering an LGW on designator is required, but a redundant
the first pass has the added advantage of designator may be considered if the
providing all aircrews in the flight with the situation warrants. The attack is carried
precise location of the target; however, the out by either (or both) aircraft achieving
tactical situation, FAC coordination, and lock-on and successful munitions release.
aircrew and aircraft capabilities will dictate FAC procedures remain the same, except
the tactics used. that the FAC may clear the second aircraft
to perform a follow-up attack on the
k. Attacks by Multiple Aircraft. Use of target (using LGWs or nonguided
laser designators and LST-equipped aircraft munitions).
facilitates rapid attacks by two or more
aircraft. The aircraft operate as a flight under NOTE: Multiple aircraft, each
the control of a single FAC, who is responsible dropping LGBs, should space
for planning and briefing the mission. Actual deliveries so as to avoid degrading
tactics will need to be understood by all LGB accuracy of follow-on attacks due
participants. Separation of aircraft in the flight to smoke, dust, and debris.
is based on the tactical situation, the flight

Procedures
• Attacks on Multiple Targets See Appendix B, “Procedures Guide,”
for a discussion of ground and airborne
•• Simultaneous tactical formation designation procedures for CAS.
attacks on multiple targets may require
as many laser designators as there are l. Night and/or Low Light Operations
aircraft. The laser equipment must be
set on different codes to prevent all the • General. Because of target acquisition
aircraft in the formation from locking problems, CAS at night is more difficult
on the same target. If the TACP or FIST for both the FAC and the attacking
has only one laser designator or all targets aircrew. The ability to use visual cues is
are not visible from their position, determined by the natural light,
coordination with adjacent unit laser- availability and correct placement of
designator operators will be required. artificial illumination, and whether or not
Communications must be established and the battle area is marked by muzzle
authority obtained to use the adjacent unit flashes, tracers, explosions, and fires.
laser designators. Communications Sighting-in the laser designator and
connectivity is done before the aircrew maintaining the spot on the target is
is briefed. The FAC controlling the attack difficult, particularly if the target is
gives the command to each LDO to begin moving. Flare effects, ordnance flashes,
designating targets. and the lack of a visible horizon also place
aircrew at risk of becoming spatially
•• Sequential target attacks (aircraft in disoriented. Coordination and proper
trail) can be accomplished by designating separation between individual aircraft in
with a single laser designator or multiple the flight are more difficult at night and
laser designators. If all LGWs have the generally result in a slower pace of
same laser code, timing between LGW operations. Unaided visual sighting of an
releases must be sufficient to deconflict aircraft without lights at night is virtually
the attacks on separate aim points (i.e., impossible. CAS procedures and release
the second set of LGWs should not be approval for night operations will be
released until the laser designator has different from daytime conditions.
moved the laser spot to the new aim
point). If the LGWs have different • Laser-Aided Night Attacks. Using a
codes, the time between attacks must laser designator and LST-equipped
be sufficient for the designator operator aircraft greatly reduces the aircrew’s
to change codes and move the laser spot target acquisition problem if it is allowed
to the follow-on aim point. It is better to to deliver the munitions on the spot
use separate laser designators on different appearing on the heads-up display
codes for each aim point; however, more (HUD). Without corroborating sensors
coordination is required. Using multiple such as FLIR and NVGs, this procedure
designators has the added advantage should not be employed where safety of
of reducing the length of time any friendly troops is of primary concern, i.e.,
single laser is on and exposed to enemy CAS. When aircrew are employing
counteraction. As with the tactical FLIR and NVGs, however, they are able
formation attack, the mission is planned, to “visually” acquire and confirm the
briefed, and controlled by a single FAC. selected target after receiving the laser
The FAC also controls the LDOs. spot from an LST. Once the aircrew has
III-13
Chapter III
acquired the target, a normal system functions of Marine attack helicopters is to
attack may be prosecuted. Attacks on provide CAS in support of the MAGTF.
multiple targets and attacks by multiple Precise engagements will be aided by the use
aircraft at night may be more susceptible of LGWs. Army special operations attack
to obscuration than daytime attacks helicopter crews are also trained to perform
because of decreased visual activity. CAS with LGWs.
• Night Vision Device Employment b. Laser Designation for Rotary-Wing

Aircraft
See JP 3-09.3, “Joint Tactics,
Techniques, and Procedures for Close Air • Employment. Laser designation for
Support (CAS),” for a discussion of night target acquisition provides fast and
vision device employment. accurate target hand-off. Certain rotary-
wing aircraft are equipped with LSTs and
4. Rotary-Wing Close Air aid the pilot’s visual target acquisition by
Support providing cockpit indications on the
location of the laser spot. Target
a. General. Using rotary-wing aircraft to acquisition can be followed with the
deliver LGWs allows the ground commander delivery of either LGWs or nonguided
to destroy high-threat-point targets. Rotary- weapons. The aircraft can designate
wing aircraft may be equipped with any either for their own weapons or for other
combination of ALDs, LSTs, and LGWs. All rotary-wing or fixed-wing aircraft.
laser designators can assist laser-system-
equipped rotary-wing aircraft in target • Communications. Communication
acquisition and provide terminal weapons between the LDO and the aircrew is
guidance. Rotary-wing aircraft are employed essential for positive target hand-off to
by the Army as maneuver elements under LST-equipped rotary-wing aircraft.
direct control of the ground commander or Positive target hand-off requires prior
aviation unit commander. One of the coordination. The LDO must provide
Communication is essential for positive target hand-off to

LST-equipped rotary-wing aircraft.

Procedures
the appropriate laser code, laser-target • Firing Methods
line in degrees magnetic, and laser spot
offset (if applicable). •• Direct Fire Method. Direct fire is
achieved using either autonomous or
c. Laser Designation for Rotary-Wing remote laser designators. When using
Aircraft with HELLFIRE LGMs. The remote designators, the rotary-wing
lock-on and launch ranges of LGMs can be aircraft is free to resume terrain masking
several miles. LGMs provide extended or engage other targets after each LGM
standoff for high-threat targets. The pilot has launch. This capability is called “fire and
several options for firing mode, firing method, forget” and increases aircraft
and missile seeker lock-on. survivability and flexibility.
• Firing Modes •• Indirect Fire Method. Indirect fire

is achieved by using remote laser
•• Single Fire or Manual Mode. In the designators. Vulnerability of rotary-
single-fire mode, one missile is wing aircraft to enemy direct-fire
launched. This mode can be used with weapons and radar detection is
autonomous direct, remote direct, and minimized by employing LGMs in the
remote indirect fire methods, as discussed indirect-fire method. The LGM is
below. launched while the aircraft is positioned
behind masking terrain features, like trees
•• Rapid Fire. Rapid fire is a technique and hills. The pilot selects a trajectory
of launching two or more missiles on for the LGM (either high or low) over
the same code. Multiple targets can be the masking terrain feature. The seeker
engaged by launching missiles at least 8 will then locate and lock-on to the remote
seconds or more apart, as specified by laser-designated target.
the LDO. Once the first missile hits the
first target, the LDO must smoothly move • HELLFIRE Missile Seeker Lock-on
the laser spot to the next target. Options
•• Ripple Fire. In the ripple fire mode, •• Lock-on After Launch. The LOAL
missiles are fired one after the other option can be used in the direct-fire mode
on different codes. For best effect, and is always used for the indirect-fire
multiple laser designators should be used method. The LGM is launched on a
to achieve ripple fire. Each laser trajectory toward the target with seeker
designator operates on a different laser lock-on occurring in flight. This option
code, and the weapon’s seekers are coded allows missile launching toward the
to match each designator. target area during adverse weather, hazy
days, long ranges, or temporary target
•• Rapid or Ripple Fire. Using multiple obscuration. Lock-on will occur when
codes and laser designators, the the obstruction to the seeker’s view
combination of rapid or ripple fire can dissipates or is bypassed during the
be achieved. approach to the target area.
NOTE: Missiles can be launched •• Lock-on Before Launch. The LOBL

singly in either the rapid or ripple option requires direct LOS to the target
mode. and requires the seeker to be locked-on
to the target before launch.
III-15
Chapter III
d. Engagement Procedures Single fire is used to engage a specific
target. Rapid fire may be used to
• Communications. Prior coordination is engage multiple targets. Two LDOs
required to ensure that communications employed as a team can request ripple
exist between the LDO and the aircrew of fire or rapid and ripple fire. Prior
the laser-equipped rotary-wing aircraft. coordination and thorough pre-mission
Coordinating radio frequencies and call planning are necessary for ripple fire or
signs may be accomplished by a face-to- rapid and ripple fire.
face briefing, using signal operating
instructions or the aviation unit’s operations •• Number of Missiles. The LDO may
order, or through the FAC. elect to engage multiple targets with
multiple LGMs. This procedure may be
• HELLFIRE Mission Brief advantageous to a quick attack of targets
at extended ranges. Rapid fire may be
•• Target Location. The HELLFIRE used to minimize total LASER-ON time
Mission brief will be a standard 9-line for multiple targets. For example,
brief. Rotary-wing aircraft use the same LASER-ON time to guide four single-
CAS briefing form as fixed-wing aircraft. launched missiles might be 1 minute and
20 seconds, while LASER-ON time for
See Appendix C, “CAS Briefing Form (9- four rapid-fire-launched missiles in the
Line)” same situation is, at a minimum, 32
seconds. During multiple missile
•• Codes. The laser designator and the launches, the LDO must ensure that
LGW on the helicopter must be on the laser energy is not interrupted by
same code. HELLFIRE LGM codes can obscuration caused by previously
be set or changed from the cockpit, launched missiles.
allowing the aircrew to match the ground
laser designator’s code. LGM designator •• Time Interval. During rapid fire,
coding is important because it prevents one missile is launched at a minimum
the seeker from homing in on other of every 8 seconds. An LDO may
reflected laser energy. request a longer interval between
launches. Considerations for longer
•• Laser-Target Line. The laser-target intervals between LGM launches include
line must be given to the aircrew in operator experience, terrain, target array,
degrees magnetic. The aircrew needs and battlefield obscuration.
this information to align the helicopter,
ensuring positive seeker lock-on of the A discussion of ground and airborne
LGM for LOBL delivery or positive in- designation for helicopters is in Appendix
flight seeker lock-on of the LGM for B, “Procedures Guide.”
LOAL. The laser-target line will also
allow the aircrew to prevent inadvertently 5. Laser Designation for Non-
engaging the laser designator. The LDO CAS Air Attacks
must be outside a 30º by 40º zone from
the aircraft, but within a 120º cone from There may be instances where aircrews and
the target (See Figure III-4). ground forces will designate for aircraft not
conducting CAS missions, such as interdiction
•• The Firing Mode. A single LDO can operations, armed reconnaissance, and other
request single-fire and rapid-fire modes. related areas.

Procedures
HELLFIRE DESIGNATOR EXCLUSION ZONE
22K FT ALTITUDE
AT 8 KM DOWNRANGE
15
AT K F
DESIGNATOR 8K TC
M RO
EXCLUSION ZONE DO SS
W RA
NR N
AN GE
GE
30o
40o TARGET
30o 60o
o
o 60
30
SHOOTER
AIRBORNE AND GROUND
DESIGNATORS MUST BE WITHIN 120
DEGREE CONE AREA
AIRBORNE AND GROUND
DESIGNATORS MUST BE OUTSIDE
30 BY 40 DEGREE NO FLY ZONE
*NOT TO SCALE
Figure III-4. HELLFIRE Designator Exclusion Zone
III-17
Chapter III
Intentionally Blank

CHAPTER IV
LASER CODES
“The instruments of battle are valuable only if one knows how to use them.”
Ardant du Picq
Battle Studies
1. Introduction code, the operator must delete the first

number and set the last three numbers on
a. General. Laser designators and seekers the G/VLLD.
use a pulse coding system to ensure that a
specific seeker and designator combination NOTE: Higher PRF (lower number
work in harmony. By setting the same code codes) provide greater laser energy for
in both the designator and the seeker, the the seeker and LSTs to receive, and so
seeker will track only the energy with the provide a greater opportunity for
correct coding. The seeker will track the first success. Lower codes also require
correctly coded, significant laser energy it more power and so cause shorter
sees. The seeker will always lock on to the battery life.
most powerful return in its view. The pulse
coding used by all systems discussed in this c. Multiple Codes. Coding allows
manual is based on PRF. simultaneous or nearly simultaneous attacks
on multiple targets by a single aircraft, or
b. Designator and Seeker Pulse Codes. flights of aircraft, employing LGWs set on
The designator and seeker pulse codes use a different codes. This tactic may be employed
modified octal system that uses the numerical when several high-priority targets need to be
digits “1” through “8.” The codes are directly attacked expeditiously and can be designated
correlated to a specific PRF, but the code itself simultaneously by the supported unit(s).
is not the PRF and therefore can be
communicated in the clear as required. 2. Management of Coded Laser
Depending on the laser equipment, either a Systems
three- or four-digit code can be set. Three-
digit code equipment settings range from 111 Laser codes must be controlled and
to 788. Four-digit code equipment settings coordinated to maximize weapon
range from 1111 to 1788. The three-and four- effectiveness. The joint force Operations
digit code equipment is compatible, and any Directorate (J-3) has overall responsibility for
mix of equipment can be used in all types of laser code management. The J-3 provides
laser operations. However, when using a mix blocks of codes to each component. Each
of three- and four-digit code equipment, all component sub-assigns codes to supporting
personnel must understand that the first arms (e.g., Army artillery, Marine air wing,
digit of a four-digit code is always set to etc.). This controlled code assignment
numerical digit “1”. The remaining three prevents interference among joint force unit
digits will be set to match the three digits of activities. Each component’s supporting arm
the three-digit code equipment. As an divides its codes among its subordinate units.
example, a three-digit code of 657 would be Subordinate units assign codes to individual
set to 1657 on a four-digit code system or vice missions and change codes periodically, as the
versa. The G/VLLD only allows for three situation requires. At each step of this
numbers to be set. Upon receipt of a 4-digit process, laser codes must be allocated to
IV-1
Chapter IV
Aircraft dropping LGBs.

ensure compatibility between laser not be sent to the supported ground unit.
designation equipment and munitions. When the aircraft is on-station, the aircrew
Some munitions and equipment are passes the code to the FAC. When the use of
incapable of using all codes. Additionally, an LDO is required, the FAC coordinates with
certain codes (low code, high PRF, and/or the LDO to ensure that the laser designator is
faster pulse rate) are preferred for laser set on the same code as the LGBs.
systems requiring precision guidance.
Codes must be prebriefed to both the FAC 4. Coding Prioritization
and aircrews for situations where
communications cannot be established or a. General. PRF codes can affect target
authorized. engagement success. The lower the code
number, the faster the laser pulse rate. The
Chapter III, “Procedures,” paragraph 3a, lower code number and faster pulse rate will
discusses exchange of code information give the seeker the most opportunity to acquire
between aircrews and ground elements. This the target in the time available, and is
code information is also disseminated in appropriate for the most important targets and
operations documents such as the air tasking the most difficult operating conditions.
order special instructions and the fire support However, lower code numbers cause faster
plan. battery drain.
3. Laser Coding in Conjunction b. Considerations. When PRF code

With LGBs prioritization is possible, the target priority and
difficulty of field operating conditions must
Laser coding can be used effectively and be considered. Technical and environmental
securely with LGBs. LGB codes are set on limitations to be considered when prioritizing
the bombs before takeoff and cannot be codes are designator location and output, beam
changed in the air. The aircrew is told the divergence, weather, seeker sensitivity, and
code, but advance coding information might FOV.
IV-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

CHAPTER V
SAFETY
“For they had learned that true safety was to be found in long previous training,
and not in eloquent exhortations uttered when they were going into action.”
Thucydides
The History of the Peloponnesian War
1. General laser system nominal ocular hazard distances

(NOHDs) or minimum safe direct beam
The safety considerations discussed herein viewing distances (aided and unaided); (2)
are not all-inclusive. The primary source establishing the appropriate laser eye
of danger from laser designators is the laser protection (LEP) requirements (wavelength
beam itself. The invisible beam is highly and optical density); and (3) publishing the
directional, intense IR radiation that can cause technical and safety publications necessary for
serious harm to the eyes. Due to the relatively safe and effective laser system employment.
low power levels of LTDs, the laser beam does For aircrew using direct-view NVGs (i.e., AN/
not normally affect other parts of the body. AVS-6, AN/AVS-9, Type I Design), an
When used properly and with due inherent degree of protection is afforded to
consideration of the laser hazards outlined in the central field of vision. This protection is
this chapter, laser designators are safe to use provided by the internal structure of the image
in a training environment, as well as for intensifier tube acting as a mechanical stop
operational use. against the laser energy. However, aircrew
peripheral vision still remains vulnerable to
Refer to Military Handbook 828A, “Laser stray reflections and/or off axis viewing. LEP
Safety on Ranges and in Other Outdoor spectacles that fit behind NVGs are currently
Areas,” for laser safety planning, buffer zone being developed to protect aircrew peripheral
and eye protection information. vision. However, compatibility challenges
still exist for aircrew integration of these LEP
2. Laser Eye Safety spectacles into their NVG-aided operations.
Aircrew using projected image NVGs (i.e.,
a. Friendly Ground Combat Personnel MXU-810/U CATSEYE, Type II), are
and Noncombatant Civilians. The potential afforded no central vision protection due to
danger of eye damage to friendly personnel the transparent qualities of the NVG’s
and noncombatant civilians must always be combiner lens design. Consequently, for
considered when using laser designators in a these aircrew, LEP can only be provided
battlefield environment where areas occupied through the use of LEP spectacles. In
by friendly and enemy troops and addition to aircrew LEP, LASER protection
noncombatant civilians are not well defined. for the NVGs is now available with the
Proper operating procedures and introduction of the light interference filter
guidelines must be established and followed (LIF). The LIF is an out-of-band optical
to protect friendly troops and noncombatant filter designed to protect AN/AVS-6 I2
civilians. Each Service has determined the tubes from LASER damage. The LIF does
necessary safety precautions required for not provide any additional protection for the
using their respective laser systems. These human eye, however; it simply laser-
precautions typically include: (1) establishing hardens the NVGs.
V-1
Chapter V
b. Eye Injury. The primary danger from the incident laser energy strikes a curved or
currently fielded laser designators is to the eye. rough surface, the energy will be reflected or
The laser beam’s highly directional, invisible spread in all directions. This diffuse reflection
IR radiation can be refracted by the cornea poses minimal concern for eye injury due to
and eye’s lens and transmitted through the the decreased intensity and dissociated nature
vitreous humor onto the retina, causing of these reflections. However, some laser
damage ranging from unnoticeable tiny spots designators may possess enough energy, even
to complete blindness. The principal dangers from a diffuse reflection, to still cause injury
to the eye result from looking directly back at to the eye. These systems are said to possess
the laser and from laser reflections off specular a diffuse reflection viewing hazard.
(mirrorlike) reflectors. The laser system’s Fortunately, the distances associated with laser
inherent concentrated energy output, coupled system diffuse reflection hazards are typically
with a relatively small beam divergence, less than 100 meters, or well within the
results in NOHDs for the unaided eye that fragmentation envelope of the LGW in use.
may range for several kilometers, dependent Therefore, a diffuse reflection hazard would
upon the system’s specifications. In addition, not likely affect operational employment or
if individuals are using direct view magnifying tactics. The minimum safe range increases
optical systems (i.e., 7X50 binocular, AH-1W significantly for anyone viewing a target
13X telescopic sighting unit, etc.), the NOHDs area through binoculars and other
are extended to even greater ranges to account magnifying optics.
for the magnification power of the devices.
Operators must use extreme care to avoid d. Enemy Personnel. Current US policy
hitting friendly personnel and on laser use states that US forces will not
noncombatant civilians with the laser beam use lasers specifically designed to cause
during operations. Specific laser equipment permanent blindness. It also states that US
manuals provide minimum safe distances for forces will strive to minimize accidental or
equipment being used. Individual training incidental eye injuries resulting from laser
ranges have safety regulations that also specify use, but recognizes that some injuries may
safe distances for laser equipment. occur as a result of these systems. None of
the laser systems described in this
Refer to Chapter I, “Concept,” paragraph 2f, publication were designed for the purpose
and Appendix E, “Laser Protocol,” for legal of causing eye injury. They should be used
restrictions on the use of lasers. properly against enemy targets as the
situation dictates
c. Reflections. Reflections from flat
objects like mirrors, window glass, reflectors See Appendix E, “Laser Protocol.”
on vehicle tail lights, and certain optical
systems do not spread the beam after 3. Fratricide
reflection. These reflections, therefore, can
cause eye injury. To calculate the NOHD for Designator profiles behind the launch
a specular reflection, one would use the same platform are inherently the safest and will
intrabeam NOHD and add the sum of the minimize the possibility of fratricide. The
distance from the laser system to the target possibility of fratricide still exists while
(specular reflective surface) with the distance operating anywhere within the optimal attack
back to the viewer. If the sum of these zone. It is highest in the designated safety
distances is equal to or greater than the zone or when a false lock-on is achieved.
NOHD, the viewer would not be at risk for Attack headings should be planned with
injury. In contrast to a specular reflection, if consideration for friendly forces and
V-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

Safety
noncombatant civilian locations. Ultimately essential to safe employment of laser
the primary mechanisms for limiting weapon systems. Equipment performance
fratricide are command emphasis, characteristics and operating range
disciplined operations, close coordination requirements are extensive and dictate what
among component commands, rehearsals, can safely be accomplished. Planners and
and enhanced situational awareness. users must research and follow the most
current laser safety information, directives,
4. Organizational Safety and regulations.
Considerations
Delivery parameters and considerations for
Each unit involved with laser weapon specific weapons are in FM 101-50-31/TH 61
systems employment must establish and A1-3-9/FMFM 5-2G-6/NAVAIR 00-130ASR-9,
enforce laser safety standard operating “Joint Munitions Effectiveness Manual/Air to
procedures. Dissemination of current safety, Surface (JMEM/AS), Risk Estimates for
procedural, and regulatory information is Friendly Troops” (C), 19 December 1986.
V-3
Chapter V
Intentionally Blank
V-4 Joint Pub 3-09.1

APPENDIX A
LASER EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTIONS
ACQUISITION AND DESIGNATION SYSTEMS
Annex AAircraft and Helicopter Weapons and Capabilities Guide

BMan-Portable Laser System Comparisons
CAngle Rate Bombing System (Marine Corps)
DLow-Altitude Navigation and Targeting Infrared for Night
(Air Force/Navy)
E Laser Spot Tracker (Navy and Marine Corps)
F PAVE PENNY (Air Force)
G OH-58D Mast-Mounted Sight (Army)
H AH-1W Night Targeting System (Marine Corps)
J AH-64 Target Acquisition System and Designation Sight
(Army)
K AC-130H/U Laser Target Designation Capabilities (Air Force)
L Ground/Vehicle Laser Locator Designator (Army)
M Laser Target Designator (Army)
N Compact Laser Designator (Handheld) (Navy)
O Laser Marker, AN/PEQ-1(A) (SOF)
P AN/PAQ-3 Man-Portable, Universal Laser Equipment
(Marine Corps)
Q The Laser Target Designator/Ranging (Navy and Marine Corps)
PRECISION-GUIDED MUNITIONS
R COPPERHEAD, l55mm Cannon-Launched Guided Projectile

(Army and Marine Corps)
S AGM-114 HELLFIRE Missile (Army, Marine Corps, and
Navy)
T Laser MAVERICK AGM-65E (Navy and Marine Corps)
U Laser-Guided Bombs (PAVEWAY II) (Air Force, Navy,
and Marine Corps)
W Low-Level Laser-Guided Bomb (PAVEWAY III) (Navy
and Air Force)
Y AN/AAQ-16D AESOP FLIR (Army)
Z SH-60B/HH-60H AN/AAS-44(V) FLIR LTD/R System (Navy)
A-1
Appendix A
LASER EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTIONS
1. Introduction include fixed-wing aircraft, attack helicopters,

artillery, and naval surface fires. Typical laser
System descriptions and nominal guided weapons are shown in Figure A-1.
characteristics described in this appendix
reflect design specifications. The actual b. Coded Laser Target Designators
capability of laser designators and seekers is
degraded by factors discussed in Chapter II, • Coded LTDs are ground and airborne
“Planning Considerations.” For example, systems that have two specific purposes.
weather, smoke, and other obscurants degrade First, they provide terminal weapons
laser system effectiveness. On the other hand, guidance for LGWs. Second, they
under favorable conditions, skilled operators designate targets for coded laser
can engage targets at ranges well in excess of acquisition/spot trackers. Coded laser
specifications. A general rule of thumb is if target designators emit laser energy with
a target can be seen, it can be designated. a PRF and require input of specific laser
If all of the spot is kept on a target, an LGW codes for operation. Codes are assigned
employed accurately should hit the target. to LGWs and directly relate to the PRF
that harmonizes designator and seeker
2. Laser Equipment and interface. The airborne platforms having
Compatibility coded laser target designators are shown
in Figure A-2. The ground systems
Equipment compatibility has a significant having coded laser target designators are
impact on joint laser interoperability. This shown in Figure A-3.
publication concentrates on six classes of laser
and electro-optical equipment: laser-guided • Coded laser target designators used for
weapons, coded laser target designators, terminal weapons guidance must be set
coded laser acquisition and/or spot trackers, to the same code as the LGW. Certain
IR pointers and illuminators, NVGs, and FLIR. LGWs, such as LGBs, are coded prior to
takeoff and cannot be changed once the
a. Laser-Guided Weapons. LGWs are aircraft is airborne. However, all coded
the “business end” of laser systems. They span laser target designators, with the
the entire spectrum of delivery platforms, to exception of the AC-130H, can change
LASER-GUIDED WEAPONS
Laser-Guided Bombs
PAVEWAY II
Low-Level Laser-Guided Bombs

PAVEWAY III
NOTE: PAVEWAY III is also delivered from medium and high altitudes.
Laser-Guided Missiles
AGM-65E Laser MAVERICK
AGM-114 HELLFIRE
Laser-Guided Projectiles
COPPERHEAD
Figure A-1. Laser-Guided Weapons
A-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

Laser Equipment Descriptions
AIRBORNE PLATFORMS WITH CODED LASER TARGET

DESIGNATORS
Rotary-Wing System
AH-1 W (USMC) NTS
AH-64A Apache TADS
OH-58D Kiowa Warrior MMS (LRF/D)
MH-60L (DAP) AESOP FLIR LRF/D
SH-60B/HH-60H AAS-44 FLIR LTD/R
Fixed-Wing System
F-14A/B/D LANTIRN
F-15E LANTIRN
F-16C Blk 40 LANTIRN
AC-130H/U Laser Designator
F-117A Classified
F/A-18 A/C/D LTD/R TFLIR/LTDR
AV-8B Day/Night Attack no LTD, LST in the ARBS and ATF
Figure A-2. Airborne Platforms With Coded Laser Target Designators
GROUND SYSTEMS WITH CODED LASER TARGET

DESIGNATORS
Service System Deployment
USMC MULE TACPs, FOs
LTD Force Recon Detachment
US Army G/VLLD, LTD COLT and FIST teams
SOFLAM, LTD, CLD SOF
USAF None TACPs rely on COLT teams
USN SOFLAM, LTD, CLD SEAL, SOF
Figure A-3. Ground Systems With Coded Laser Target Designators
codes while in the tactical environment. tracker, and the weapon must have the
The AC-130H LTD is permanently preset same code.
with only one code (1688) and cannot
be changed. Terminal weapons guidance • Weapons employment of LGBs in
of LGBs by an AC-130H is possible conjunction with coded laser target
provided this code is precoordinated. designators is either autonomous or
The AC-130U has a codable LTD and assisted. Autonomous LGB employment
can change codes in flight. Coordination uses the aircraft’s on-board LTD for
for the LTD to match the LGB code is terminal weapons guidance. Most
conducted through the air tasking order aircraft capable of delivering LGBs can
or FAC nine-line briefing. Sometimes, a provide on-board autonomous self-
designator will serve the dual purpose of designation. Assisted LGB employment
target designation for a coded laser uses an off-board LTD for terminal
acquisition and/or spot tracker and weapons guidance. This is typically
terminal weapons guidance for LGWs. accomplished by a ground team
In these cases, the designator, spot operating a designator (such as a
A-3
Appendix A
G/VLLD) or by another aircraft (known • PAVE PENNY acquires coded laser
as “buddy lasing”). Assisted LGB designations and displays them as target
employment is often required by aircraft symbols to the pilot via the HUD.
without on-board LTDs (such as A/OA-10s Conventional free-fall ordnance, 30mm
or AV-8Bs) that can carry and deliver strafe, and Maverick missiles are then
LGBs but have no on-board terminal employed with on-board targeting
weapons guidance capability. systems. PAVE PENNY aircraft can
acquire targets designated by any LTD
• The OH-58D Kiowa Warrior is equipped (ground or airborne). Remember,
with LTDs. The AH-64A Apache also however, if a PAVE PENNY A/OA-10
has an LTD, but it cannot acquire or is going to drop LGBs, it cannot self-
designate (lase) a small segment of laser designate since PAVE PENNY is only a
codes (1711-1788). laser spot tracker.
• The USMC AH-1W possesses an LTD • Currently, Marine Corps AV-8Bs and
compatible with all LGWs, including USN/USMC F/A-18s are capable of
HELLFIRE missiles. acquiring targets designated by off-board
laser targeting systems. USAF F-16s,
c. Coded Laser Acquisition and/or Spot F-15Es and US Navy F-14s do not have
Trackers LSTs and are incapable of visually
acquiring coded laser designated targets
• Coded laser acquisition and/or spot from off-board systems. Low-altitude
trackers are systems which allow visual navigation and targeting infrared for
acquisition of a coded laser designated night (LANTIRN) equipped fighters
target. LSTs must be set to the same code (F-16C Block 40, F-15E, and F-14A/B/D)
as the coded laser target designator in use a targeting pod to acquire targets
order for the user to see the target being based on inertial navigation system
designated. In the case of airborne LSTs, coordinates displayed to the aircrew via
the aircrew acquires the laser designated HUD or multi-function display
“spot” (target) and either employs LGBs symbology. Subsequent terminal
through use of an LTD or executes visual weapons guidance is accomplished
deliveries of non-laser ordnance. The autonomously or through “buddy” laser
airborne platforms having coded laser designation. Air Force Reserve Component
acquisition and/or spot trackers are F-16C Block 30 aircraft will also be
shown in Figure A-4. equipped with an LST and an LTD as well
AIRBORNE PLATFORMS WITH CODED LASER ACQUISITION

AND/OR SPOT TRACKERS
Rotary-Wing System
AH-64A Apache TADS
AH-6 LST
Fixed-Wing System
A/OA-10 PAVE PENNY
AV-8B Day/Night Attack ARBS/ATF
F/A-18 A/C/D LST/LDT pod (on selected aircraft)
Figure A-4. Airborne Platforms With Coded Laser Acquisition and/or Spot Trackers

Laser Equipment Descriptions
as a FLIR and optical television camera. on selected F/A-18 aircraft due in part to
There will be no degradation in standard the fact that carrying an LST reduces air-
configuration loadout. to-air combat load (AIM-7 or advanced
medium-range air-to-air missile) by one
• The USMC AV-8B Day/Night Attack pylon hard point. A section (2-ship) of
Harrier incorporates an LST in its angle LGB configured F/A-18s may both have
rate bombing system (ARBS). This LST LTD/Rs, but LST configuration may
is similar to the A/OA-10 PAVE PENNY vary. The LTD/R and LST are podded
system in that it can acquire any target systems and configurations will vary
designated by an LTD. Weapons delivery from aircraft to aircraft depending on
of conventional non-LGWs is mission loadout and pod availability.
accomplished with the on-board ARBS.
It can carry and deliver LGBs, but like • The OH-58D Kiowa Warrior and
the A/OA-10, it requires external AH-1W, SH-60B and HH-60H do not
terminal weapons guidance by an LTD. have “true” LSTs. However, if these
aircraft are carrying HELLFIRE, the
• The F/A-18C/D is unique because it is missile can provide some target cueing.
the only US fighter/attack fixed-wing The on-board HELLFIRE missile’s
aircraft equipped with both an LST and seeker head sensor provides target
LTD. F/A-18s configured with LGBs symbology in the cockpit display of what
may also carry laser target designator/ is being designated by the helicopter’s
ranger (LTD/R) pods. It is important to on-board coded laser designator or any
note, however, that LSTs are found only other laser source.
A-5
Appendix A
Intentionally Blank

ANNEX A TO APPENDIX A
AIRCRAFT AND HELICOPTER WEAPONS
AND CAPABILITIES GUIDE
The capabilities of fixed-wing aircraft are
shown in Figure A-A-1. The capabilities of NOTE: Data contained in this
rotary-wing aircraft are shown in Figure appendix is provided only for
A-A-2. information. It is not authoritative and
should be verified before being used
operationally.
A-A-1
Annex A to Appendix A
FIXED-W ING AIRCRAFT CAPABILITIES

Aircraft Using Ordnance Laser Capability Marking Beacon Other
M/D/S Service LST LTD Capability Capability Systems
AV-8B USMC Laser-guided YES NO Rockets None ARBS
(Day Attack) bombs* NVG
AGM-65 Maverick GPS
GP bombs
Napalm
2.75” rockets
5.00” rockets
LUU-2
25mm cannon
AGM-122 Sidearm
Aerial mines
CBUs
AV-8B USMC As above YES NO Rockets None TV
(Night Attack) NVG
NAVFLIR
GPS
AV-8B USMC As above NO NO Rockets None NVG
(Night/Radar) NAVFLIR
GPS
Radar
A/OA-10 USAF Laser-guided YES NO WP rockets None NVG
bombs* 30mm HEI
AGM-65 Maverick HE rockets
GP bombs
CBUs
Aerial mines
2.75” rockets
LUU-2/19
LUU-1/-5/-6 flares
30mm cannon
AC-130H USAF 105mm howitzer NO YES GLINT PPN-19 FLIR
(SOF) 40 mm cannon 105mm WP ST-181 LLLTV
20mm cannon 105mm HE SSB Radar
40mm PLS GPS
MISCH
LTD (1688
only)
AC-130U USAF 105mm howitzer NO YES GLINT SST-181 FLIR
(SOF) 40mm cannon 105mm WP ALTV
25 mm cannon 105mm HE Radar
40mm GPS
MISCH
(codable
LTD)
B-1B USAF GP bombs NO NO None PPN-19*** Radar
CBUs
B-2 USAF Mk 82/84 NO NO None None GPS
CBU 87 (CEM)/ Radar
89 (GATOR)/
97 (SFW)
GBU 31 (JDAM)
GBU 34
Figure A-A-1. Fixed-Wing Aircraft Capabilities
A-A-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

Aircraft and Helicopter Weapons and Capabilities Guide
FIXED-W ING AIRCRAFT CAPABILITIES (cont’d)

B-52H USAF AGM-142 NO NO None PPN-19*** FLIR
GP bombs PPN-20*** LLLTV
Aerial mines GPS
Laser-guided NVG
bombs Radar
CBUs
F-14/A/B/D USN Laser-guided NO YES Laser None NVG
bombs LANTIRN
GP bombs FLIR
20mm cannon GPS
CBUs
Aerial mines
LUU-2
F-15E USAF Laser-guided NO YES Laser PPN-19 FLIR
bombs PPN-20 Radars
CBUs AAM
GP bombs
20mm cannon
AGM-65 Maverick
F-16 USAF AGM-65 Maverick NO NO WP rockets PPN-19 Radar
(without Laser-guided PPN-20 GPS**
LANTIRN) bombs*
GP bombs
CBUs
20mm cannon
F-16C/D USAF Laser-guided NO YES Laser PPN-19 FLIR
(with bombs* PPN-20 GPS
LANTIRN) AGM-65 Maverick NVG
GP bombs Radar
CBUs
20mm cannon
F-117 USAF GBU 10/12 YES YES Laser None GPS
GBU 27 INS
Mk 82/84 FLIR
CBU 52/58/71/87 DLIR
(CEM)/89 (Gator)
Mk 20
Figure A-A-1. Fixed-Wing Aircraft Capabilities (cont’d)
A-A-3
FIXED-W ING AIRCRAFT CAPABILITIES (cont’d)

F/A-18 USN/ Laser-guided YES YES Laser None TFLIR
A/C/D USMC bombs WP rockets NFLIR
AGM-65 Maverick HE rockets GPS***
AGM-62 Walleye NVG
AGM-84 SLAM Radar
AGM-88 HARM
GP bombs
CBUs
Aerial mines
LUU-2 flares
2.75” rockets
5.00” rockets
Napalm/FAE
20mm cannon
JDAM/JSOW
S-3B USN GP bombs NO NO WP rockets None FLIR
CBUs Radar
2.75” rockets
5.00” rockets
Aerial mines
LUU-2 flares
LST Laser Spot Tracker
LTD Laser Target Designator
*Though these aircraft can carry and release LGBs, they require off-board designation for terminal
guidance.
**GPS on some aircraft (Blocks 40/42; 50/52)
***Lot XVII and up
Figure A-A-1. Fixed-Wing Aircraft Capabilities (cont’d)

Aircraft and Helicopter Weapons and Capabilities Guide
ROTARY-W ING AIRCRAFT CAPABILITIES

Aircraft Using Ordnance Laser Capability Marking Other
M/D/S Service LST LTD Capability Systems
AH-1 F USA BGM-71 TOW missile NO NO Rockets NVG
20mm cannon
2.75” rockets
AH-1 W USMC BGM-71 TOW NO YES Rockets FLIR
AGM-114 Hellfire Laser NVG
2.75” rockets GPS
5.0” rockets
20mm cannon
LUU-2
AGM-122 Sidearm
AH-64A USA AGM-114 Hellfire YES YES Laser FLIR
2.75” rockets ** Rockets NVG
30mm cannon
AH-64D USA AGM-114L Hellfire YES YES Laser FLIR
(including 2.75” rockets ** Rockets NVG
Longbow) 30mm cannon Radar
IDM
GPS
OH-58D USA AGM-114 Hellfire NO YES Laser FLIR
(Kiowa 2.75” rockets Rockets NVG
Warrior) .50 cal machine gun GPS
Air-to-air Stinger IDM
ATHS
MMS
VIXL
MH-60L USA 2.75” rockets YES YES Laser FLIR
(DAP) 30mm NVG
AGM-114 Hellfire GPS
7.62 Minigun
Stinger
AH-6 USA 2.75” rockets YES NO 7.62 Minigun FLIR
7.62 Minigun NVG
GPS
SH-60B USN AGM-114 Hellfire NO YES Laser FLIR
AGH-119 Penguin NVG
MK-46/MK-50 GPS
Torpedoes ESM
.50 cal machine gun Radar
Datalink
HH-60H USN AGM-114 Hellfire NO YES Laser FLIR
.50 cal machine gun NVG
GPS
ATHS Airborne Target Handover System
IDM Improved Data Modem
MMS Mast Mounted Sight
VIXL Video Transmission Downlink
**The AH-64 helicopter cannot designate laser codes 1711 to 1788.
Figure A-A-2. Rotary-Wing Aircraft Capabilities
A-A-5
Intentionally Blank

ANNEX B TO APPENDIX A
MAN-PORTABLE LASER SYSTEM COMPARISONS
MAN-PORTABLE LASER SYSTEM COMPARISONS

AN /PE Q-1 AN /PE Q-1A MULE GV LLD CLD
Magnification 7x 10x 10x 13x 7x
Rem ote Cable 150 ft 10 ft or N/A N/A 2 ft
Control 150 ft
RF 5 km 5 km N/A N/A N/A
Duty Cycle c320F 5 on, 1 off 5 on, 1 off 5 9 1 on,
(@ 20 pps) x3 x3 see note 1 see note 1 2 off
(min) 30 cool down 30 cool down
a320F 5 on, 1 off 5 on, 1 off a3 4.5 1 on,
x3 x3 see note 1 see note 1 2 off
30 cool down 30 cool down
Battery Type BA-5590 BA-5590 BA-6699 BA-6699 Unique
Lithium, BB- Lithium, BB- special special Lead-Acid
590 NiCad, 590 NiCad, NiCad NiCad
lead Acid or lead Acid or
Vehicular Vehicular
Battery Life c320F 90 (Lithium) 90 (Lithium) 5 9 60
(min)
(@ 20 pps)
a320F 90 (Lithium) 90 (Lithium) a3 3 to 6.5 60
Cooling Circulated Circulated High High Non-circulated
liquid, self- liquid, self- pressure pressure liquid, self-
contained contained Nitrous Nitrogen contained
Oxide
Night V ision 1.06 I2 1.06 I2 Cryo Cyro N/A
available available Thermal Thermal
(Integral (Integral (Bottle Type) (Bottle type)
Weaver rail) Weaver &
See Note 2 Picatinney
rails)
Warm-up Time 5 5 5 3 5
(seconds)
Range 35 35 10 35 35
Resolution
(meters)
Range Logic 1st/Last 1st/Last 1st (gated) 1st/Last 1st/Last
(gated)
Minimum Target 35 35 c50 c20 35
Separation
(meters)
Effective Range Designate 5 km 5 km 3.4 km 5 km a5 km
(c32 0F) (3 km typical)
Range Finding 10 km 10 km 10 km 10 km 10 km
Note 1. This duty cycle is based on the battery life/operating time of the laser system.
Note 2. This night sight is capable of imaging the laser wavelength day or night with the use of daylight
filters.
Figure A-B-1. Man-Portable Laser System Comparisons
A-B-1
Annex B to Appendix A
MAN-PORTABLE LASER SYSTEM COMPARISONS (cont’d)

AN /PE Q-1 AN /PE Q-1A MULE GV LLD CLD
Weight Laser Unit 9.6 11.2 16.5 28 16
(lbs)
Batteries 12.6 12.6 4.5 4.5 2.2
(5 BA-5590 (5 BA-5590 1 NiCad 1 NiCad 1 Lead-Acid
w/Bag) w/Bag) (unique)
Minimum Usable 22.2 23.8 21 53 18.2
System (tripod
(laser,batteries) required)
w/Tripod 28 29.6 39 53 28.2
w/Night Sight, 25.75 (tripod 27.3 (tripod 51.8 (tripod 61.8 (tripod N/A
w/o tripod not required) not required) required) required)
System Total1 31.75 33.3 51.8 61.8 28.2
(w/o container (NVS not
w/tripod, NVS, & available)
batteries
System Total2 63 64.5 182 182.7 40
(w/container)
Output Energy c80 c80 c80 c100 c50
Param eters milliJoule
Divergence .300 .300 .250 .130 .300
milliradian @95% @95% @90% @90% @90%
Boresight .150 .150 .100 .035 .150
Retention (c32 0F) (vendor
milliradian data)
Volum e Laser Unit 363 370 750 700 420
(Cu. In.)
Total System 800 808 9500 12,750 420
(Laser, NVS,
batteries, no
containers)
Field of V iew (o) Horiz 5 5 4.2 5 7
Vert 4.75 4.75 4.2 5 a7
Figure A-B-1. Man-Portable Laser System Comparisons (cont’d)
A-B-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX C TO APPENDIX A
ANGLE RATE BOMBING SYSTEM (MARINE CORPS)
ANGLE RATE BOMBING SYSTEM (MARINE CORPS)
Description: A 3-axis gimballed dual-mode television and LST

Enables the pilot to view the laser spot
Function: Provides day or night, accurate first pass, target
attack
Platform: AV-8B Day/Night attack variants
Employment: Allows day or night attack of target with LGW or
non-guided bombs independent of target movement,
wind, dive angle, or release angle variations
Provides re-attack navigation and automatic impact
spacing
PRF Codes: Four digits
In-flight selectable
System-Unique Capabilities: Manual or automatic weapon release
First-pass accuracy
Limitations: System affected by smoke or obscurants, as discussed
in Chapter II, “Planning Considerations,” for LST
Field of View: 35 o az, +15o/-70o el
GIMBAL LIMITS: As part of the field of view
Figure A-C-1. Angle Rate Bombing System (Marine Corps)
A-C-1
Annex C to Appendix A
Intentionally Blank
A-C-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX D TO APPENDIX A
LOW-ALTITUDE NAVIGATION AND TARGETING INFRARED
FOR NIGHT (AIR FORCE/NAVY)
LOW-ALTITUDE NAVIGATION AND TARGETING INFRARED

FOR NIGHT (AIR FORCE/NAVY)
Description: Pod-mounted laser designator/ranger, boresighted to
FLIR
Function: Aircraft ranging to target
Laser target designation
Platform: F-14, F-15E, F-16 BLOCK 40
Employment: Aircraft inertial navigation system update
Target designation for LGB deliveries
System-Unique Capabilities: Autonomous laser-designation capability
Limitations: LANTIRN restrictions can be significant, especially
gimbal limits which can restrict the attack flexibility
of the system
Not an LST
Laser cannot be employed above 25,000' MSL
Field of View: (F-14) 5.87o/1.65o az, +32/-150 el
(F-15E) 5.85o/1.67o az, +30/-150 el
(F-16) 6 o/1.7o az, +35/-150 el
Figure A-D-1. Low-Altitude Navigation and Targeting
Infrared for Night (Air Force/Navy)
A-D-1
Annex D to Appendix A
Intentionally Blank
A-D-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX E TO APPENDIX A
LASER SPOT TRACKER (NAVY AND MARINE CORPS)
LASER SPOT TRACKER (NAVY AND MARINE CORPS)
Description: LST see definition

Function: Locates the laser spot designating a target, then
passes necessary ballistic information to allow FLIR
or radar acquisition of target and visual HUD or head
down display
Platform: F/A-18
Employment: Used to locate a target that is designated any
correctly coded laser energy to deliver laser-guided
munitions
Once the target is located, the LST data can be
passed to the mission computer for use in the
delivery of conventional ordnance
System-Unique Capabilities: After designated target is sighted, aircraft locks on to
target and laser can be turned off; conventional
ordnance can then be delivered on target
Limitations: No active rangefinder or designator (if not used in
conjunction with onboard LTD/R)
Field of View: 12 o/3o az, +30o/-150o el
Figure A-E-1. Laser Spot Tracker (Navy and Marine Corps)
A-E-1
Annex E to Appendix A
Intentionally Blank
A-E-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX F TO APPENDIX A
PAVE PENNY (AIR FORCE)
PAVE PENNY (AIR FORCE)
Description: Pod-contained LST

Function: To receive laser energy and provide cockpit heads-up
steering to source of reflected energy
Platform: A/OA-10
Employment: Used to help pilot locate reflected laser energy
System-Unique Capabilities: Very sensitive seeker
Expands aircraft capability by providing early target
acquisition
Limitations: Laser spot must be within seeker field of view
Field of View: 4º
Level Narrow scan is 20 degrees (+/- from aircraft
nose)
Level Wide scan is 40 degrees (+/- from aircraft
nose)
Figure A-F-1. PAVE PENNY (Air Force)
A-F-1
Annex F to Appendix A
Intentionally Blank
A-F-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX G TO APPENDIX A
OH-58D MAST-MOUNTED SIGHT (ARMY)
OH-58D MAST-MOUNTED SIGHT (ARMY)
Description: MMS is an electro-optical system mounted above the

rotor system in a gyro-stabilized turret incorporating
a low light-level television, digital thermal imaging
system, and LRF/D
Function: Sight system is used to detect and identify enemy
targets while the aircraft is masked
LRF/D is used to locate targets utilizing either GRID
or LAT/LONG, self-lase its own weapons or
designate for all US or NATO standard LGWs
Platform: OH-58D (I) KIOWA WARRIOR
Employment: Provides day, night, adverse-weather target detection
and identification
Employed as a scout or as light division attack
helicopters
PRF Codes: Four Digits
System-Unique Capabilities: Tracks stationary or moving targets manually or
automatically
Automatically points to 8 digit or LAT/LONG grid
for target acquisition
Incorporates digital communications system (ATHS)
interface with artillery and LONGBOW APACHE
(IDM)
Limitations: As discussed in Chapter II, “Planning
Considerations,” for laser designators
Field of View: Ranges from 2 to 10 degrees depending on the sight
and magnification selected
Figure A-G-1. OH-58D Mast-Mounted Sight (Army)
A-G-1
Annex G to Appendix A
Intentionally Blank
A-G-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX H TO APPENDIX A
AH-1W NIGHT TARGETING SYSTEM (MARINE CORPS)
AH-1W NIGHT TARGETING SYSTEM (MARINE CORPS)
Description: Laser designator and rangefinder with FLIR, direct-

view and Coupled Charge Display sensors
Function: Same as description
Platform: AH-1W
Employment: Provides day, night, and limited adverse weather
target ranging and laser designation capability
Used to engage point targets with TOW or Hellfire
missiles
System-Unique Capabilities: Tracks targets manually or automatically
Can launch using direct or indirect methods
Limitations: No Air Data Sensor to automatically optimize FLIR
picture
Field of View: Ranges from 1.0 to 30 degrees depending on the
sight and magnification selected
Figure A-H-1. AH-1W Night Targeting System (Marine Corps)
A-H-1
Annex H to Appendix A
Intentionally Blank
A-H-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX J TO APPENDIX A
AH-64 TARGET ACQUISITION SYSTEM AND
DESIGNATION SIGHT (ARMY)
AH-64 TARGET ACQUISITION SYSTEM AND DESIGNATION

SIGHT (ARMY)
Description: LST and LTD/Rand
Platform: AH-64
Employment: Provides day, night, and limited adverse-weather
target ranging, LST, and laser-designating capability
Used to engage point targets
Can laser-designate for its own or “buddy lase” for
remotely fired LGWs
System-Unique Capabilities: The TADS LST facilitates handoffs from other laser
designators
Tracks targets manually or automatically
Seeker lock-on options are LOAL or LOBL
Considerations,” for LST and laser designators
Field of View: Ranges from .36 to 40 degrees depending on the
sight and magnification selected
Figure A-J-1. AH-64 Target Acquisition System and Designation Sight (Army)
A-J-1
Annex J to Appendix A
Intentionally Blank
A-J-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX K TO APPENDIX A
AC-130H/U LASER TARGET DESIGNATION CAPABILITIES
(AIR FORCE)
AC-130H/U LASER TARGET DESIGNATION

CAPABILITIES (AIR FORCE)
Description: Integrated into the AC-130’s fire control, the LTD/R
is mounted on the AC-130H’s LLLTV
On the AC-130U, the LTD/RF is integrated into the
fire control system and the ALLTV
Function: Primarily used to determine range from the AC-130
to the target
Can be used to designate targets for other weapons
systems
target acquisition and laser designation capability
PRF Codes: Not applicable
LTD/R permanently set to 10 pulses per second (code
1688) on the AC-130H
The AC-130U PRF code is programmable
System-Unique Capabilities: AC-130H: LTD/R integrated with LLLTV
AC-130U: LTD/RF integrated with ALLTV
Limitations: The AC-130H flies a pylon turn around a target and
can designate and attack targets on the aircraft’s left
side
The ALLTV on the AC-130U has a 360 degree FOV
and can be used to designate targets on either side of
the aircraft
AC-130H: only has one pulse repetition frequency
AC-130U: is being modified to include the
capability to reset the PRF
Figure A-K-1. AC-130H/U Laser Target Designation Capabilities (Air Force)
A-K-1
Annex K to Appendix A
Intentionally Blank
A-K-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX L TO APPENDIX A
GROUND/VEHICLE LASER LOCATOR DESIGNATOR
(ARMY)
GROUND/VEHICLE LASER LOCATOR

DESIGNATOR (ARMY)
Description: Long-range LTD/R
Can provide azimuth, range, and vertical angle
Function: Designates targets or areas that can be detected by
CGLP or by aircraft equipped with LST and LGMs
set to same code as G/VLLD
Platform: Mounted in M-981 FIST/M2 IFV/HMMWV vehicle
Dismounted on tripod
Employment: Located in company or troop FISTs and in the
combat observation lasing teams
(Note: First digit is fixed)
System-Unique Capabilities: Uses night sight
Two-man portable for short distances
Limitations: Limited mobility
Figure A-L-1. Ground/Vehicle Laser Locator Designator (Army)
A-L-1
Annex L to Appendix A
Intentionally Blank
A-L-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX M TO APPENDIX A
LASER TARGET DESIGNATOR (ARMY)
LASER TARGET DESIGNATOR (ARMY)
Description: Battery-operated, lightweight, handheld

Function: Designates targets that can be detected by aircraft
equipped with LSTs and LGWs set to same code as
LTD
Platform: Handheld
Employment: Used by Special Forces units and fire-support
personnel in airborne and ranger units
System-Unique Capabilities: Easily transportable
Limitations: Cannot range targets
Cannot provide direction and vertical angle
Laser-on time limited because of battery life
Figure A-M-1. Laser Target Designator (Army)
A-M-1
Annex M to Appendix A
Intentionally Blank
A-M-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX N TO APPENDIX A
COMPACT LASER DESIGNATOR (HANDHELD) (NAVY)
COMPACT LASER DESIGNATOR (HANDHELD) (NAVY)
Description: Battery-operated, lightweight, handheld

Function: Designates targets that can be detected by aircraft
equipped with LSTs and LGWs set to the same code
as the LTD
Platform: Handheld
Can be tripod mounted
Tripod has a north-seeking compass and can
determine azimuth and elevation
Employment: Used by special operations forces (SEALs)
System-Unique Capabilities: Easily transportable
Limitations: Cannot provide direction and vertical angle unless
mounted on tripod
Laser-on time limited because of battery life
Figure A-N-1. Compact Laser Designator (Handheld) (Navy)
A-N-1
Annex N to Appendix A
Intentionally Blank
A-N-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX O TO APPENDIX A
LASER MARKER, AN/PEQ-1(A) (SOF)
LASER MARKER, AN/PEQ-1(A) (SOF)
Description: Man-portable laser marker and rangefinding device.

Sighting Optics Magnification:
7X (AN/PEQ-1)
10X (AN/PEQ-1A)
Function: Rangefinding and terminal guidance for laser guided
weapons
Platform: Man-portable, tripod or ground supported
Employment: To provide SOF operators the capability to mark high
priority targets for US air-delivered laser-guided
munitions
PRF Codes: Bands I and II
System-Unique Capabilities: Basic rangefinding and marking capability
Incorporates mounting rails for night vision or
thermal sights
Capable of 5-1-5-1-5-30 minutes ON/OFF duty cycle
Small size and light weight
Utilizes standard military batteries (BA-5590,
BB-590, BB-490)
Figure A-O-1. Laser Marker, AN/PEQ-1(A) (SOF)
A-O-1
Annex O to Appendix A
Intentionally Blank
A-O-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX P TO APPENDIX A
AN/PAQ-3 MAN-PORTABLE, UNIVERSAL LASER
EQUIPMENT (MARINE CORPS)
AN/PAQ-3 MAN-PORTABLE, UNIVERSAL LASER EQUIPMENT

(MARINE CORPS)
Description: Man-transportable LTD/R
Function: Accurately locates targets and provides terminal
guidance for LGWs
Platform: Man-transportable, tripod mounted
Employment: To provide forward observers, NGF spotters, and
FACs the capability to accurately determine location
and range to targets
To provide laser designation for all surface- and air-
delivered LGWs
System-Unique Capabilities: Consists of three basic modules:
-Laser designator rangefinder module: provides the
basic laser designator and ranging equipment
-Stabilized tracking tripod module: provides
stabilization for the tracking of moving targets and
targets at extended ranges
-North-finding module: provides a true north
reference
AN/TAS-4 Thermal Night Sight for night operations
Figure A-P-1. AN/PAQ-3 Man-Portable, Universal Laser Equipment (Marine Corps)
A-P-1
Annex P to Appendix A
Intentionally Blank
A-P-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX Q TO APPENDIX A
THE LASER TARGET DESIGNATOR/RANGING
(NAVY AND MARINE CORPS)
THE LASER TARGET DESIGNATOR/RANGING

Description: Pod-mounted, laser designator and ranger that is
boresighted to the FLIR
Function: Provide aircraft ranging to and laser designation of a
target
Platform: F/A-18A/B/C/D
Employment: Provide day, night, and limited adverse weather
capability for laser ranging and designation
Autonomous lasing capability with on-board LTD/R
for own aircraft’s LGB delivery
Assisted lasing capability with on-board LTD/R for
another aircraft’s LGB delivery (“Buddy lasing”)
System-Unique Capabilities: Autonomous laser-designation capability
Most power out of all laser designators
Aircraft Inertial Navigation System update
Limitations: Not an LST
Environmental factors and smoke dissipate laser
Gimbal limits and field of view can restrict attack
flexibility
Inadequate FLIR magnification under certain
circumstances
Larger laser spot size on the target may decrease
LGB accuracy
Laser cannot be employed above 25,000 feet MSL
Figure A-Q-1. The Laser Target Designator/Ranging (Navy and Marine Corps)
A-Q-1
Annex Q to Appendix A
Intentionally Blank
A-Q-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX R TO APPENDIX A
COPPERHEAD, 155mm CANNON-LAUNCHED GUIDED
PROJECTILE (ARMY AND MARINE CORPS)
COPPERHEAD, 155mm CANNON-LAUNCHED GUIDED

PROJECTILE (ARMY AND MARINE CORPS)
Description: LST in nose of projectile that homes in on laser
energy reflected from target during the final portion
of trajectory
Function: Used in conjunction with a ground or airborne laser
designator
Platform: Fired from M109 155mm self-propelled howitzers
and M198 155mm towed howitzers
Employment: Used primarily to attack high priority moving or
stationary hard point targets
PRF Codes: Three digits
System-Unique Capabilities: Point target accuracy
Large footprint within which the round can acquire
the target
Limitations: Requires continuous laser designation during the final
13 seconds of projectile flight
Figure A-R-1. COPPERHEAD, 155mm Cannon-Launched Guided
Projectile (Army and Marine Corps)
A-R-1
Annex R to Appendix A
Intentionally Blank
A-R-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX S TO APPENDIX A
AGM-114 HELLFIRE MISSILE (ARMY,
MARINE CORPS, AND NAVY)
AGM-114 HELLFIRE MISSILE (ARMY,

MARINE CORPS, AND NAVY)
Description: Third-generation air-launched, antiarmor, laser-guided
missile
Function: Used in conjunction with a ground or airborne laser
designator
Platform: AH-1W, AH-64, OH-58D, SH-60B, and HH-60H
Employment: Employed against armor or other hard point-type
targets
Autonomous designation or “buddy lasing” for other
launch platforms
System-Unique Capabilities: Can launch using direct or indirect methods
Can employ single, rapid, or ripple firing techniques
Seeker lock-on options are LOAL or LOBL
Considerations,” for all LGWs
Only AGM-114 B/K missiles are authorized aboard
Navy ships
Figure A-S-1. AGM-114 HELLFIRE Missile (Army, Marine Corps, and Navy)
A-S-1
Annex S to Appendix A
Intentionally Blank
A-S-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX T TO APPENDIX A
LASER MAVERICK AGM-65E
LASER MAVERICK AGM-65E

Description: A short-range, laser-guided, rocket-propelled air-to-
surface missile
Function: Used in conjunction with ground or airborne laser
designators
Platform: AV-8B
F/A-18
Employment: Intended for use against fortified ground installations,
armored vehicles, and surface combatants
Employs 300-pound MAVERICK warhead with
selectable delay fuse
Cockpit selectable
System-Unique Capabilities: If the missile loses laser spot, it goes ballistic and
flies up and over the target; the warhead does not
explode (becomes a dud)
Cockpit-selectable laser coding and fusing (delay or
quick)
Considerations,” for all LGWs
Figure A-T-1. Laser MAVERICK AGM-65E (Navy and Marine Corps)
A-T-1
Annex T to Appendix A
Intentionally Blank
A-T-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX U TO APPENDIX A
LASER-GUIDED BOMBS (PAVEWAY II)
(AIR FORCE, NAVY, AND MARINE CORPS)
LASER-GUIDED BOMBS (PAVEWAY II)

(AIR FORCE, NAVY, AND MARINE CORPS)
Description: 500-pound LGB (MK-82, GBU-12)
1000-pound LGB (MK-83, GBU-16)
2000-pound LGB (MK-84, GBU-10)
PAVEWAY II is compatible with all US ground and
airborne designators
Function: Bomb is released after aircraft is within delivery
envelope
Bomb begins terminal guidance upon laser energy
acquisition
Platform: Most aircraft capable of employing conventional
weapons of same weight class
Employment: Level, dive, or loft for PAVEWAY II bombs
Optimum against point targets
Not cockpit selectable
System-Unique Capabilities: Accuracy gives high probability of target kill against
point targets
Limitations: Early laser spot acquisition during a low angle, level,
or loft, shallow diving delivery tends to cause the
bomb to miss short
Requires ballistically accurate delivery and
continuous laser energy during the last 10 seconds of
flight
The target must subtend an angle of at least 1
mil/mrad (at designator-to-target range)
When delivered from a low-altitude loft manuever
(see Appendix D, “LGB and LLLGB Delivery
Profiles”), restricts lase on target to last 10 seconds
of flight
Figure A-U-1. Laser-Guided Bombs (PAVEWAY II)
(Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps)
A-U-1
Annex U to Appendix A
Intentionally Blank
A-U-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX W TO APPENDIX A
LOW-LEVEL LASER-GUIDED BOMB
(PAVEWAY III) (NAVY AND AIR FORCE)
LOW-LEVEL LASER-GUIDED BOMB (LLLGB) (PAVEWAY III)

(NAVY AND AIR FORCE)
Description: Termed GBU-24 and GBU-27 (2,000-pound bomb)
No 500-pound version
GBU-28 (5,000-pound bomb)
LLLGB termed PAVEWAY III
Third-generation LGB
Function: Same as LGB
Platform: Same as LGB
Employment: Expanded delivery envelopes allowing very low
altitude, relatively low ceiling, longer range weapon
releases
Retains dive-delivery option
Not cockpit selectable
System-Unique Capabilities: Improved accuracy capability over LGB GBU-
10/12/16
Highly resistant to countermeasures (Selectable
CCM)
Blind-launch capability from extended range
If LLLGB does not detect laser energy, it will fly
beyond the target and maintain level flight
Designed for use in the low altitude environment
Limitations: Requires continuous laser energy during the last 8
seconds of flight
Target must subtend an angle of at least one
mil/mrad (at designator-to-target range)
Figure A-W-1. Low-Level Laser-Guided Bomb (PAVEWAY III) (Navy and Air Force)
A-W-1
Annex W to Appendix A
Intentionally Blank
A-W-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX Y TO APPENDIX A
AN/AAQ-16D AESOP FLIR (ARMY)
AN/AAQ-16D AESOP FLIR (ARMY)
Description: FLIR
NVS
Function: FLIR system for LRF/D
Platform: MH-60L, AH-6
Employment: Used for night pilotage, target detection, navigation
and recognition, nap of the earth flight, search and
rescue, and surveillance
System-Unique Capabilities: Telescope has three fields of view
Magnification changes in 0.5 seconds
Limitations: Affected by high humidity
Field of View: 42 o/6.7o/2.5o az, +/-15o/2.5o/1o el
Figure A-Y-1. AN/AAQ-16D AESOP FLIR (Army)
A-Y-1
Annex Y to Appendix A
Intentionally Blank
A-Y-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX Z TO APPENDIX A
SH-60B/HH-60H AN/AAS-44(V) FLIR LTD/R SYSTEM (NAVY)
SH-60B/HH-60H AN/AAS-44(V) FLIR LTD/R SYSTEM (NAVY)
Description: Laser designator and rangefinder with FLIR

Platform: SH-60B/HH-60H
target ranging and laser designation capability
Used to engage point targets with Hellfire missiles
System-Unique Capabilities: Tracks targets manually or automatically
Can transmit FLIR video to LAMPS datalink
equipped ships (SH-60B only)
Limitations: Passive ranging is inaccurate at low altitudes
Field of View: 1.3, 6.0, and 23.8 degrees along with two digital
levels of magnification (47.6X and 95.2X)
Figure A-Z-1. SH-60B/HH-60H AN/AAS-44(V) FLIR LTD/R System (Navy)
A-Z-1
Annex Z to Appendix A
Intentionally Blank
A-Z-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

APPENDIX B
PROCEDURES GUIDE
Annex A Ground and Airborne Laser Designation Procedures for the

CLGP “COPPERHEAD”
B Ground and Airborne Laser Designation for CAS with
FAC not Collocated with LDO or ALD
C Ground and Airborne Laser Designation Procedures for
Helicopters
B-1
Appendix B
Intentionally Blank
B-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX A TO APPENDIX B
GROUND AND AIRBORNE LASER DESIGNATION
PROCEDURES FOR THE CLGP “COPPERHEAD”
1. General
COPPERHEAD is a precision weapon with an observer-target range that is greater than
maneuver direct fire weapons. Therefore, it is normally employed against target arrays which
are outside the range of direct fire systems. The successful use of COPPERHEAD requires
careful planning by the FSO and the observer, and detailed coordination between the observer
and the firing unit. COPPERHEAD use is limited by the quantities available, battlefield
obscuration, cloud height, angle T, and effective range of the laser designator. COPPERHEAD
requires uninterrupted LOS from the observer to the target and from the target to the round
during the downward trajectory of flight.
2. Communications (See Figure B-A-1)

Communications between the observer and FDC occur using frequency modulation (FM),
wire, mobile subscriber equipment, or tactical satellite. US Marine Corps units may use high
frequency radio.
3. Fire Mission Procedures

When observers acquire a target which is suitable for engaging with COPPERHEAD, they
initiate a call for fire over the appropriate communications net to an artillery battery FDC.
a. Planned Targets
• When observers identify a stationary target at the planned target location, they initiate
the call for fire. If the target is moving towards the planned target location, observers
initiate the call for fire and place control of the unit at their command. Then observers
must use the target speed and the known or estimated firing unit response time and
projectile time of flight to determine when to issue the command to fire (trigger point).
The call for fire is as follows:
ELEMENT EXAMPLE
Observer identification “R24, this is A58”

Warning order “Fire target AF7005, over”
Target description “4 tanks”
Method of engagement “4 rounds”
Method of control “At my command, over”
B-A-1
Annex A to Appendix B

PROCEDURES FOR CLGP “COPPERHEAD”
Forward observer/airborne laser

designator (FO/ALD) transmits
call for fire. Includes laser-to-
Fire direction center (FDC) copies target line (direction).
call for fire. Message to observer
will include laser code (three
digits) and time of flight. FO/ALD verifies laser code and
changes code if necessary.
FDC transmits "SHOT, OVER."

FO/ALD acknowledges "SHOT,
OUT", prepares to designate.
FDC transmits "LASER ON."

FO/ALD designates target;
acknowledges "LASER ON."
If "LASER ON" acknowledgement is
not heard, FDC repeats "LASER ON"
call until impact.
FO/ALD designates target until
rounds impact, "TERMINATE"
call is heard or 20 seconds
after expected time of flight
expire.
tic
allis Gu
B id
"LASER ON" ed
FDC
CANNON LASER TARGET
Figure B-A-1. Ground and Airborne Laser Designation Procedures

for CLGP “COPPERHEAD”
• The call for fire against a planned target may be streamlined by omitting the target
description, method of fire, and method of control. Example:
“This is A58, fire target AF7005, over”
• The message to observer (MTO) for planned targets is sent from the battery FDC to the
observer to confirm the planned target and to provide the observer with the information
B-A-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

Ground and Airborne Laser Designation Procedures for the CLGP “COPPERHEAD”
necessary to establish COPPERHEAD engagement areas or footprints. The elements of
the MTO are:
ELEMENT EXAMPLE
Firing unit identification “A58, this is R24”

Unit to fire “R”
Number of rounds “2 rounds”
Angle T “Angle T 600”
Footprint letter code “Set F, Green, over”
• Unless otherwise specified on the COPPERHEAD target list, the FDC will plan to fire
two COPPERHEAD rounds on each planned target, though the second round will not
be fired unless the observer requests it. If the observer requests “At my command,” the
battery fires the COPPERHEAD rounds at 30 second intervals after the observer transmits
“Fire.” If the observer requests “By round at my command,” “Fire,” must be transmitted
for each round.
• COPPERHEAD Engagement Commands
•• Shot. The FDC transmits “Shot” to the observer as soon as the first round is fired.
Unless the observer requested “By round at my command,” any additional rounds will
be fired at 30 second intervals and “Shot” will not be transmitted.
•• Designate. The next and most critical engagement command is “Designate.” The
FDC transmits this command 20 seconds prior to impact and the observer begins
designating the target. “Designate” is used when communicating digitally; in voice
communications, the command is “Laser on.” The observer must designate the target
for the last 13 seconds of the COPPERHEAD round’s time of flight.
•• Designate Now. When an observer fails to acknowledge the “Designate” command,

the FDC transmits “Designate now” until the observer acknowledges or until the time of
flight elapses.
•• Rounds Complete. The FDC reports “Round complete” after the engagement
commands for the last rounds are transmitted.
b. Targets of Opportunity. The observer initiates a call for fire against a COPPERHEAD
target of opportunity in the same manner as a standard call for fire.
ELEMENT EXAMPLE
Observer identification “R24, this is A58”

Warning order “Fire for effect, over”
Target location “Grid 436122, direction 1800, over”
Target description “2 tanks”
Method of engagement “COPPERHEAD, 2 rounds”
Method of control “By round at my command, over.”
B-A-3
Annex A to Appendix B
MTO ELEMENT EXAMPLE
Unit firing “R”

Target number “AF7006”
Number of rounds “2 rounds”
Laser PRF code “code 241”
Time of flight “Time of flight, 25, over”
The PRF code transmitted by the FDC in the MTO is a confirmation of the PRF code assigned
to the observer by the FSO. If the PRF code in the MTO is different than the observer’s pre-
assigned code, the observer must change the code on the laser designator before receiving the
“Laser on” command.
B-A-4 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX B TO APPENDIX B
GROUND AND AIRBORNE LASER DESIGNATION FOR CAS
WITH FAC NOT COLLOCATED WITH LDO OR ALD
1. Communications (See Figure B-B-1)

a. Communications between LDO or ALD and FAC, if not collocated: FM.
b. Communications between FAC and aircraft: FM, ultra high frequency (UHF), or very
high frequency (VHF).
c. Communications between LDO or ALD and aircraft: FM, (UHF or VHF when available).
2. Additions to Tactical Air Request

a. Laser Code. (FAC gets laser code from the FSO or FSCC and passes to aircraft with
LST. FAC obtains or passes laser code to FSO or FSCC for attacking aircraft with LGWs.)
b. Request for LGWs.
c. Laser-to-target line in degrees magnetic.
d. Radio frequency and call sign for final controller to whom pilot will give final attack
laser calls.
3. Additions to FAC to Aircrew CAS Briefing (Appendix C, “CAS

Briefing Form [9-Line]”)
a. Request laser code, four digits (lxxx) set in LGWs on aircraft. In the case of LGM
equipped aircraft, the FAC will pass the laser code set in the ground designator, and the LGM
seeker codes will be changed to match the ground designator or ALD.
b. Pass laser-to-target line in degrees magnetic.
c. Laser-spot offset information, if applicable.
d. Pass radio frequency and call sign for final controller to whom aircrew will give final
attack laser calls.
4. Additions to Aircrew to FAC Reporting Procedures

a. Pass that LGWs are to be delivered and the laser codes set in them.
b. “10 SECONDS” warning call that aircraft will need laser on in 10 seconds.
B-B-1
Annex B to Appendix B
PROCEDURES FOR AIRCRAFT WITH LASER- GUIDED

WEAPONS AND LASER SPOT TRACKERS
Maneuver unit commander

Forward air controller (FAC)
decides to request close air coordinates laser code, laser-target
support. line and frequency and/or call sign of
laser designator operator (LDO).
United States Marine Corps
Direct Air Support Center
United States Air Force Airstrike request includes
Air Support Operations Center Laser-related data.
Airstrike approval message.
Control agency sends LGW- or FAC coordinates marking and
LST- equipped aircraft to contact air defense suppression.
point to check in with FAC.
Aircrew checks in: reports it has

LGW and/or LST.
FAC coordinates laser code,
laser-target line and frequency
and/or call sign with LDO and Approaching target, aircraft calls
pilot. "TEN SECONDS", "LASER ON"
and "SPOT" if LST- equipped.
FAC automatically relays laser
control calls. LDO prepares to designate
target on "TEN SECONDS"
call, responds to "LASER ON"
Aircraft acquires target or releases and "TERMINATE."
LGW and makes appropriate
"TERMINATE" call.
Aircraft begins egress.
Ballistic
d
de
ui
r-g
se "LASER ON"
La
FAC LASER TARGET
Figure B-B-1. Procedures for Aircraft With Laser-Guided Weapons

and Laser Spot Trackers
c. “LASER ON” call.
d. “SPOT” call (for LST-equipped aircraft).
e. “TERMINATE” call when designation is no longer required, based on the aircrew’s

computation of the time of flight (TOF) of the LGW being delivered.
B-B-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

Ground and Airborne Laser Designation for CAS with FAC Not Collocated with LDO or ALD
5. Additions to FAC to LDO or ALD Calls

a. Confirm LST- and LGW-equipped aircraft inbound.
b. Confirm laser code to be used. Ground LDOs and ALDs will change to codes set in
LGWs carried by supporting aircraft.
c. FAC automatically relays all laser calls from aircrew to LDO or ALD.
B-B-3
Annex B to Appendix B
Intentionally Blank
B-B-4 Joint Pub 3-09.1

ANNEX C TO APPENDIX B
PROCEDURES FOR HELICOPTERS
1. Communication — Designator (Controller) to Helicopter

(See Figure B-C-1)
a. Ground — FM
b. Air — FM, VHF, UHF
2. Target Hand-off to LST-Equipped Helicopter

a. Additions to FO or ALD briefing to helicopter
• Four-digit laser code (lxxx)
• Laser-to-target line in degrees magnetic
• Laser spot offset, if applicable
b. Additions to aircrew to FO or ALD reporting procedures
• “10 SECONDS” warning call that the aircraft will need laser-on in 10 seconds
• “LASER ON” call
• “TERMINATE” call when designation is no longer required
3. Target Engagement for LGM-Equipped Helicopters

a. Additions to FO or ALD briefing to helicopter
• Four-digit laser code (1xxx)
• Laser-to-target line in degrees magnetic
• Number of missiles, if applicable
• Firing mode, if applicable
• Time interval between launches, if applicable
• Radio frequency and call signs for laser calls, if applicable
B-C-1
Annex C to Appendix B
PROCEDURES FOR HELICOPTERS WITH LASER-

GUIDED MISSILES AND REMOTE DESIGNATOR
Maneuver unit detects targets;

Higher headquarters directs arranges for helicopter support.
helicopter support, advises
helicopters of frequency
and call sign for specific
fire mission.
Helicopter calls forward

observer/airborne laser FO/ALD advises helicopters
designator (FO/ALD) for of three-digit laser code,
target update. laser-to-target line and laser
spot offset; updates target
coordinates if required.
Helicopter calls "TEN SECONDS",
"LASER ON" and "TERMINATE" for
target acquisition.
FO/ALD designates target as
instructed.
Helicopter fires LGM.

Helicopter calls "TEN SECONDS",
FO designates target as instructed:
"LASER ON" and "TERMINATE" as
on "LASER ON" call, designates
required.
target until rounds impact,
"TERMINATE" call or 20 seconds
after computed LGM time of flight
has elapsed.
Gu
Pitch Up To Gimball id
Limits "LASER ON" ed
LASER TARGET
Figure B-C-1. Procedures for Helicopters With Laser-Guided Missiles

and Remote Designator
b. Additions to aircrew to FO or ALD reporting procedures
• “10 SECONDS” warning call that the aircraft will need laser-on in 10 seconds
• “LASER ON” call
• “TERMINATE” call when designation is no longer required
B-C-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

Ground and Airborne Laser Designation Procedures for Helicopters
NOTE: Army FM 1-112 should be reviewed for more specific AH-64/OH-58D engagement
procedures.
4. HELLFIRE Guided Missile Surface Danger Zone

a. A HELLFIRE guided missile is an air-launched antiarmor weapon launched from the
AH-64, AH-1, and OH-58D. HELLFIRE homes in on a laser spot projected from either a
ground observer, another aircraft, or the launch aircraft itself. The AH-64 can engage targets
autonomously or work as a team member. As many as 10 targets can be handed off to the
AH-64, providing rapid target engagement. The following operational modes can be selected
when firing HELLFIRE.
• Lock-On After Launch (Direct Launch Mode). An LOS exists between the
HELLFIRE missile and the target; however, HELLFIRE seeker lock-on is inhibited by
distance. HELLFIRE is launched in the general direction of the target, locks-on after
launch, and then homes to the target.
• Lock-On Before Launch (Direct Launch Mode). The HELLFIRE missile seeker
tracks the target prior to launch. Once launched, the missile homes to the target.
• Lock-On After Launch (Indirect Launch Mode). The HELLFIRE missile is launched
from behind a terrain mask or in defilade. The missile seeker then acquires the target and
homes in on a preselected trajectory.
b. Surface danger zones for a direct launch and indirect launch provide for all firing modes
of the HELLFIRE missile at fixed targets to include the effects of the warhead functioning at
the edge of the impact area. No specific warhead area is included because the HELLFIRE
missile system has no practice warhead.
c. All laser range control procedures and laser surface danger zone parameters outlined in
AR 385-63, Chapter 19, apply to designators being used with the HELLFIRE missile (also
see TB MED 524). Because of the large surface danger zones and the limited range of the
designators, it may be necessary to place designator operators within the surface danger
zones during some training exercises. Three designator zones for designator operators have
been established within the surface danger zones. These designator zones and their specific
range requirements are provided below.
• Prohibited Designator Zone. No designator operators are allowed in this zone because
of the unacceptable probabilities associated with the following hazards:
•• There are remote scenarios where the missile seeker can track the laser backscatter
energy at the exit aperture of the designator or along the path of the laser beam; and
•• The probability of random missile failures is the highest within this zone.
B-C-3
• Protected Designator Zone. Designator operators are not vulnerable to a normally
functioning missile tracking the laser backscatter energy in this zone. However, there is
a possibility that the missile may track and impact an obstruction (e.g., trees, grass, hills)
near the designator operator if it is accidentally illuminated by the laser beam. The
possibility of being injured by a random missile failure impacting within 150 meters of
a designator operator in this area is less than 4 in 10 million.
•• Ground-designator operators will wear flak jackets and military issue helmets and be
located in protected positions (e.g., sand bags enclosing the designator operator).
•• The designator will have a clear unobstructed LOS to the target. All obstacles (e.g.,
trees, rocks, grass) should be at least 500 meters from the laser beam. Special care
should be taken to ensure that designator LOS is unobstructed across the entire path of a
moving target during the TOF to impact.
•• Ground-designator operators must ensure that they do not inadvertently lase through
dust caused by other personnel, vehicles.
•• Airborne designators must ensure that they are either over ground conditions that do
not create dust or at an altitude where rotor downwash does not create dust.
•• In peacetime operations, both ground and airborne designators may occupy the
protected designator zone when formal justification is provided and a waiver granted
IAW the provisions of AR 385-62, Chapter 1 (Formal waivers are usually already in
effect for wartime operations). Waivers should be granted when there is no possible way
to conduct operations in the unprotected designator zone or outside the surface danger
zone(s).
• Unprotected Designator Zone. Although designator operators are not vulnerable to a

normally functioning missile tracking the backscatter or false targets in this zone, there
is still a possibility of a random missile failure. The probability of a random missile
failure impacting with 150 meters of the designator is smaller in this zone than in the
protected designator zone.
•• At a minimum, ground designator operators should wear flak jackets and military
helmets.
•• The requirements of subparagraphs 4c above also apply to the unprotected designator

zone.
•• Designator operations (ground and/or airborne) may be conducted in the unprotected

designator zone when formal justification is provided and a waiver granted IAW the
provisions of AR 385-62, Chapter 1.
d. Two additional areas within the surface danger zones are as follows.

Ground and Airborne Laser Designation Procedures for Helicopters
• Potential Hazard Area. An area designated to contain a malfunctioning missile at the
point of launch. Only mission-essential personnel may occupy this area. Large
concentrations of personnel in the potential hazard area is prohibited.
• Area F. An area to the rear of the launch point 30 meters wide (15 meters to each side of
the launcher) and 50 meters long. Hazards are launch motor blast, high noise levels,
overpressure, and debris. Serious casualties or fatalities may occur to any personnel
occupying this area. Occupation of Area F by personnel is prohibited.
e. General range requirements are as follows.
• All non-mission-essential personnel will be located outside the HELLFIRE surface danger
zone(s).
• The position of the launch platform and designator operators are critical to the safe use
of the HELLFIRE missile system. Controls must be established to ensure that proper
launcher direction, designator direction, and target coordinates are verified prior to launch
of the missile.
• The angle formed between the designator target line and the missile target line will
never be greater than 60 degrees. Designator operators (ground and/or airborne) will
never be outside this area.
• The launch zone and designator zones to be used during an exercise must be clearly
marked to ensure designator operator safety.
• If the LOAL-D is required, the target should be visible to the launch crew to assure
proper aircraft alignment.
• Designator rain hoods and port covers should always be used when supplied as a system
option.
• Missile launches should be conducted in good visibility conditions to allow the

HELLFIRE missile seeker to acquire the target as early as possible during flight.
• Designator codes 470-488 and 782 or greater will not be used for Army Helicopter
Improvement Program (OH-58D) designations.
5. HELLFIRE Guided Missile Airborne Designator Danger Zone

a. Many battlefield scenarios require the HELLFIRE to be guided by an airborne designator.
The increasing number of aircraft platforms equipped with laser designators has given rise to
numerous remote designation (“buddy lase”) techniques. Although aircraft present a viable
tactical alternative to a ground based laser, some important items must be considered.
B-C-5
• As with ground-based designators, the backscatter from airborne designators, or the
designator itself, may present a lucrative target for the laser detectors in all LGWs,
including the HELLFIRE. Unfortunately, depending upon launch platform and
employment mode, the launch aircrew may not be able to determine that the missile is
receiving laser energy from the designating platform vice the intended target.
•• Employment Mode. If the HELLFIRE is employed in LOBL mode, the weapon

LOS is displayed in most launch platforms. With this cueing, trained launch aircrew can
determine that the weapon is tracking the designator vice the target. If employed in
LOAL, no cueing is provided to the launch aircrew by the weapon. Other aircraft systems
may provide this cueing but will generally not be capable of detecting the laser spot in an
LOAL scenario. The bottom line is that only an LOBL launch is capable of providing
cueing of the weapon’s aimpoint; however, even if an LOBL is planned, launch aircrew
train to employ in an LOAL mode if a laser spot is not received once clearance to launch
has been given. This training consists of ensuring specific safety offset angles are used
between the launch platform and the designator to minimize fratricide.
•• Launch Platform. Several US aircraft employ the HELLFIRE, but the amount of
aircrew cueing varies greatly. Most platforms, including the AH-1W, the AH-64, and
the AH-60, provide aircrew cueing in the form of a pointer at weapon LOS. When
receiving properly coded laser energy, the HELLFIRE will lock on and the aircraft
weapons control system will display the weapon to target LOS. With this cueing, the
aircrew can determine the source of the laser return and validate that the missile is tracking
the desired target and not the designator.
• When employed in an LOAL mode, the HELLFIRE will execute a climbing profile and
immediately begin searching for properly coded laser energy. The profile will depend
upon whether the employment is LOAL low or LOAL high, but can be as high as 20
degrees above the horizon. If an airborne designator is within the missile FOV during
an LOAL profile, there is a high probability that the weapon will track and guide on the
designator vice the intended target. With a kinematics capability in excess of 10 km, the
HELLFIRE may guide to impact on the designating platform with devastating effects.
Because of the climbing profile executed by the weapon, especially in an LOAL high,
an altitude sanctuary by the designator is not always assured. The geometry for remote
designate tactics using an airborne designator must be precise to preclude this possibility.
b. An airborne (or ground) designator to remote designate for HELLFIRE deliveries must
remain out of the weapon FOV throughout the TOF. This FOV is defined by the shooter
(weapon) to target LOS +/- 30 degrees in the horizontal plane and 40 degrees in the vertical
plane. Designator profiles behind the launch platform are inherently the safest available.
Field and tactical manuals should be consulted for most current information regarding safety
areas and safety zones.

APPENDIX C
CAS BRIEFING FORM (9-LINE)
(Omit data not required, do not transmit line numbers. Units of measure are standard unless
otherwise specified. * denotes minimum essential in limited communications environment.
Bold denotes readback items when requested.)
Terminal controller: “___________________, this is __________________________”

(aircraft call sign) (terminal controller)
*1. IP/BP: “___________________________________________________”
*2. Heading: “_____________________________________” (magnetic).

(IP/BP to target)
Offset: “_____________________________________ (left/right)”
*3. Distance: “________________________________________________”

(IP to target in nautical miles/BP to target in meters)
*4. Target elevation: “__________________________” (in feet MSL)
*5. Target description: “_______________________________________”
*6. Target location: “_________________________________________”

(latitude/longitude or grid coordinates or offsets or visual)
*7. Type mark: “_______________________” Code: “_______________”

(WP, laser, IR, beacon) (actual code)
Laser to target line: “_______________” (degrees)
*8. Location of friendlies: “_________________________________”

Position marked by: “____________________________”
*9. Egress: “______________________________________”

In the event of a beacon bombing request, insert beacon bombing
chart line numbers here.
__________________________________________________________
Remarks (As appropriate): “_____________________________________”

(threats, restrictions, danger close, attack clearance, SEAD, abort codes, hazards)
NOTE: For AC-130 employment, lines 5, 6, and 8 are mandatory briefing items. Remarks
should also include detailed threat description, marking method of friendly locations (including
magnetic bearing and distance in meters from the friendly position to the target, if available),
identifiable ground features, danger close acceptance.
C-1
Appendix C
Time on target: “______________________________”
OR
Time to target: “Stand by _______ plus _______, Hack.”
Refer to JP 3-09.3, “Joint Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Close Air Support (CAS).”
This format varies slightly from NATO-approved procedures published in ACP 125, Supplement
2(A).
C-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

APPENDIX D
LGB AND LLLGB DELIVERY PROFILES
1. Delivery Profiles D-1 depicts LGB and LLLGB dive delivery

tactics. Medium-altitude level release
a. General. LGBs and LLLGBs are not a employment is also a highly effective tactic.
cure-all for the full spectrum of targets and
scenarios facing fighter and attack aircraft, but c. Low-Level Employment. Low-level
they do offer advantages in standoff and LGB and LLLGB employment requires
accuracy over other types of free-fall weapons special considerations. There is no “best”
in the inventory. LGBs and LLLGBs will be delivery profile to fly at the exclusion of all
employed in a range of missions from CAS others. The aircrew must consider both
to interdiction. The following section survivability and specific target characteristics
describes the basic delivery profiles used in to determine the best release option available.
LGB and LLLGB employment. Low-level employment is one of the most
demanding tasks facing fighter and attack
b. Medium-Altitude Employment. aircraft crews today. The aircrew must also
LGBs and LLLGBs are excellent performers consider the significant difference between
in dive deliveries initiated from medium- LGB and LLLGB flight capability. Critical
altitude. A steep, fast dive attack increases elements for low-level LGB and LLLGB
LGB and LLLGB maneuvering potential and employment are: (1) sufficient airspeed; (2)
flight ability. Medium-altitude attacks accurate release parameters; and (3)
generally reduce target acquisition problems coordination with the ground or airborne
and more readily allow for target designation designator. Low-level delivery profiles fall
by either ground or airborne designation into the following categories: (1) loft delivery;
platforms. Medium-altitude LGB and (2) level delivery; (3) pop-up to low-angle
LLLGB dive delivery tactics are normally dive delivery; and (4) pop-up to long-range
used in areas of low to medium threat. Figure toss delivery.
LGB AND LLLGB DELIVERY TACTIC

(PERMISSIVE THREAT)
Release in dive 3000

feet or above
o
Note: Dive delivery 15 or greater
Ingress (any altitude)
AIRBORNE/GROUND DESIGNATOR
Figure D-1. LGB and LLLGB Delivery Tactic (Permissive Threat)
D-1
Appendix D
• Loft Delivery. After gaining the range, and increases exposure of the
supported ground commander’s delivery aircraft. Figure D-3 depicts the
approval, loft deliveries may be initiated delivery profile of the PAVEWAY III.
prior to target acquisition or designation. Because of the risk to friendly ground
This capability increases standoff forces, the FAC should avoid loft attacks
distance. Advantages of the loft option with weapons release behind friendly
include minimum non-maneuvering positions.
exposure time and maximum standoff
capability. Loft angles can vary to fit the • Level Delivery. Generally, tactical
tactical environment. Loft deliveries considerations or weather limitations
require automated weapons delivery drive level deliveries from low altitude.
systems to achieve accurate release The Paveway II level delivery profile will
parameters. When using ground normally cause the delivery aircraft to
designators, close coordination between overfly the target. The main advantage
aircrews and ground designator of the LLLGB is in the low-altitude,
personnel is a critical factor. Figure D-2 level-delivery profile; the delivery
depicts a PAVEWAY II low-level loft aircraft can stand well away from the
delivery tactic. LLLGBs can be released target during its delivery.
in a loft mode, but this does not increase
PAVEWAY II LOW-LEVEL LOFT DELIVERY TACTIC

(SOPHISTICATED THREAT, POSITIVE TARGET IDENTIFICATION)
Laser-Guided Bomb
200-foot ingress
approximately 6.1 nm
200-foot egress
Forward air controller

airborne/ground designator
Figure D-2. PAVEWAY II Low-Level Loft Delivery Tactic (Sophisticated Threat,

Positive Target Identification)
D-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

LGB and LLLGB Delivery Profiles
PAVEWAY III LOW-LEVEL DELIVERY TACTIC
Paveway III
200-foot ingress
approximately 6.1 nm
Figure D-3. PAVEWAY III Low-Level Delivery Tactic
• Pop-up to Low-Angle Dive Delivery. d. LLLGB Advantages. The LLLGB was

Pop-up to low-angle dive deliveries offer developed in response to sophisticated enemy
advantages over level releases. Target air defenses and poor visibility and to counter
acquisition is easier with level delivery limitations in low ceilings. The weapon is
because the apex is higher, there is more designed for low-altitude delivery and with a
time available for search, and the bomb capability for improved standoff ranges to
has better maneuverability. Exposure is reduce exposure. Unlike the LGB, the
usually longer than for a level approach, LLLGB can correct for relatively large
so the aircrew should maneuver the deviations from planned release parameters
aircraft throughout the delivery. Figure in the primary delivery mode (low-altitude,
D-4 depicts the LGB and LLLGB pop- level-delivery). It also has a larger delivery
up delivery tactic. envelope for the dive, glide, and loft modes
than does the earlier LGB. The wide field of
• Pop-up to Long-Range Toss Delivery. view and midcourse guidance modes
Toss deliveries provide increased programmed in the LLLGB allow for a “point
delivery flexibility over other delivery and shoot” delivery capability that allows the
options; however, they are not normally aircrew to attack the target by pointing the
used in the CAS arena. While ceiling aircraft at the target and releasing the weapon
and visibility may dictate release after obtaining appropriate sight indications.
parameters, standoff capability is very The primary advantage of this capability is
good and varies with the type of weapon that accurate diving or tracking is not required
used and the release altitude which may to solve wind-drift problems. An added
be restricted by ceiling and visibility. advantage of the LLLGB in a CAS situation
Total exposure time is moderate and non- is that if the LLLGB does not detect reflected
maneuvering exposure time is laser energy, it will maintain level flight to
minimized. The toss delivery profile is continue beyond the designated target,
very similar to that illustrated for the loft overflying friendly positions to impact long
in Figure D-2. rather than short of the target.
D-3
Appendix D
LGB AND LLLGB POP-UP DELIVERY TACTIC

(SOPHISTICATED THREAT,TARGET IDENTIFICATION DIFFICULT)
Note: Delivery can be level

O
or shallow dive (ca. 10 )
Pop-up to 1000 to 3000 feet

200-foot ingress
Airborne and/or ground designator
approximately 4.6 km
descend to 200 feet for

egress
ER
LAS
Figure D-4. LGB and LLLGB Pop-Up Delivery Tactic (Sophisticated Threat,
Target Identification Difficult)
D-4 Joint Pub 3-09.1

APPENDIX E
LASER PROTOCOL
1. General
a. The “Laser Protocol to the 1994 Convention on Prohibitions or Restrictions on the Use
of Certain Conventional Weapons Which May Be Deemed to be Excessively Injurious or to
Have Indiscriminate Effects” was only recently negotiated. It deals with a subject about
which there is neither existing conventional (treaty) law nor customary international practice.
The United States has not yet ratified the Protocol. The Protocol has no binding effect on the
United States or its military personnel.
b. Even if the Laser Protocol did have a binding effect, it does not prohibit the use of the
lasers described in this publication because none of them are designed to cause blindness as
a combat function. Rather, each is designed for target designation, range finding, and other
related areas. Incidental or collateral blindness caused by a legitimate military laser is not
prohibited by the Protocol (Article 3).
c. The Secretary of Defense memorandum in Paragraph 3 is an effective constraint on US

forces. It also only prohibits lasers designed to cause permanent blindness, and recognizes
targeting and range-finding lasers as permissible.
2. Protocol Terms
The terms of the Laser Protocol are as follows.
ADDITIONAL PROTOCOL TO THE CONVENTION ON PROHIBITIONS OR

RESTRICTIONS ON THE USE OF CERTAIN CONVENTIONAL WEAPONS
WHICH MAY BE DEEMED TO BE EXCESSIVELY INJURIOUS
OR TO HAVE INDISCRIMINATE EFFECTS
ARTICLE 1: ADDITIONAL PROTOCOL
The following protocol shall be annexed to the Convention on Prohibitions or Restrictions

on the Use of Certain Conventional Weapons Which May Be Deemed to Be Excessively
Injurious or to Have Indiscriminate Effects (“the Convention”) as Protocol IV:
“Protocol on Blinding Laser Weapons”

(Protocol IV)
Article 1:
It is prohibited to employ laser weapons specifically designed, as their sole combat

function or as one of their combat functions, to cause permanent blindness to unenhanced
vision, that is to the naked eye or to the eye with corrective eyesight devices. The High
Contracting Parties shall not transfer such weapons to any State or non-State entity.
E-1
Appendix E
Article 2:
In the employment of laser systems, the High Contracting Parties shall take all feasible
precautions to avoid the incidence of permanent blindness to unenhanced vision. Such
precautions shall include training of their armed forces and other practical measures.
Article 3:
Blindness as an incidental or collateral effect of the legitimate military employment of

laser systems, including laser systems used against optical equipment, is not covered by
the prohibitions of this Protocol.
Article 4:
For the purpose of this Protocol ‘permanent blindness’ means irreversible and
uncorrectable loss of vision which is seriously disabling with no prospect of recovery.
Serious disability is equivalent to visual acuity of less than 20/200 Snellen measured
using both eyes.
ARTICLE 2: ENTRY INTO FORCE
This Protocol shall enter into force as provided in paragraphs 3 and 4 of Article 5 of the
Convention.
CCW Conference: Vienna, Austria 1995

25 September - 13 October 1995
3. DOD Policy on Blinding Lasers

The following is the current DOD policy on the use of blinding lasers.
DOD Policy on Blinding Lasers
The Department of Defense prohibits the use of lasers specifically designed to cause
permanent blindness and supports negotiations prohibiting the use of such weapons.
However, laser systems are absolutely vital to our modern military. Among other things,
they are currently used for detection, targeting, range-finding, communications and target
destruction. They provide a critical technological edge to US forces and allow our
forces to fight, win and survive on an increasingly lethal battlefield. In addition, lasers
provide significant humanitarian benefits. They allow weapon systems to be increasingly
discriminate, thereby reducing collateral damage to civilian lives and property. The
Department of Defense recognizes that accidental or incidental eye injuries may occur
E-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

Laser Protocol
on the battlefield as the result of the use of lasers not specifically designed to cause
permanent blindness. Therefore, we continue to strive, through training and doctrine, to
minimize these injuries.
Secretary of Defense William J. Perry

January 17, 1997
Current DOD Policy on Blinding Lasers
E-3
Appendix E
Intentionally Blank
E-4 Joint Pub 3-09.1

APPENDIX F
REFERENCES
The development of Joint Pub 3-09.1 is based upon the following primary references.
1. Joint Publications
a. Joint Pub 1-02, “DOD Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms.”
b. Joint Pub 3-0, “Doctrine for Joint Operations.”
c. Joint Pub 3-05.5, “Joint Special Operations Targeting and Mission Planning Procedures.”
d. Joint Pub 3-09, “Doctrine for Joint Fire Support.”
e. Joint Pub 3-09.3, “Joint Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Close Air Support
(CAS).”
2. Multi-Service Publications
a. FM 90-20/FMFRP 2-72/TACP 50-28/USAFEP 50-9/PACAFP 50-28, “Multi-Service
Procedures for the Joint Application of Firepower (J-FIRE).”
b. FM 90-21/FMFRP 5-44/TACP 50-20/USAFEP 50-20/PACAFP 50-20, “Multi-Service

Joint Air Attack Team Operations (JAAT).”
c. FM 101-50-31/TH 61 A1-3-9/FMFM 5-2G-6/NAVAIR 00-130ASR-9, “Joint Munitions

Effectiveness Manual/Air to Surface (JMEM/AS), Risk Estimates for Friendly Troops (C).”
d. TC 90-7/TACP 50-22/USAFEP 50-38/PACAFP 50-38, “Tactical Air Control Party/

Fire Support Team (TACP/FIST) Close Air Support Operations.”
3. Service Publications
a. FM 6-20, “Doctrine for Fire Support.”
b. FM 6-20-40, “Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Fire Support for Brigade
Operations (Heavy).”
c. FM 6-30, “Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Observed Fire.”
d. FMFM 3-55, “Tactical Directed Energy Warfare.”
e. FMFM 6-8, “Supporting Arms Observer, Spotter, and Controller.”
F-1
Appendix F
f. NWP 3-09.11/FMFM 1-7, “Supporting Arms and Amphibious Operations.”
g. Military Handbook 828A, “Laser Safety on Ranges and in Other Outdoor Areas.”
F-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

APPENDIX G
ADMINISTRATIVE INSTRUCTIONS
1. User Comments
Users in the field are highly encouraged to submit comments on this publication to the
United States Atlantic Command Joint Warfighting Center, Attn: Doctrine Division,
Fenwick Road, Bldg 96, Fort Monroe, VA 23651-5000. These comments should address
content (accuracy, usefulness, consistency, and organization), writing, and appearance.
2. Authorship
The lead agent for this publication is the US Army. The Joint Staff doctrine sponsor for
this publication is the Director for Operational Plans and Interoperability (J-7).
3. Supersession
This publication supersedes Joint Pub 3-09.1, 1 June 1991, “Joint Laser Designation
Procedures.”
4. Change Recommendations
a. Recommendations for urgent changes to this publication should be submitted:
TO: CSA WASHINGTON DC//DAMO-FDQ//

INFO: JOINT STAFF WASHINGTON DC//J7-JDD//
Routine changes should be submitted to the Director for Operational Plans and
Interoperability (J-7), JDD, 7000 Joint Staff Pentagon, Washington, DC 20318-7000.
b. When a Joint Staff directorate submits a proposal to the Chairman of the Joint
Chiefs of Staff that would change source document information reflected in this
publication, that directorate will include a proposed change to this publication as an
enclosure to its proposal. The Military Services and other organizations are requested
to notify the Director, J-7, Joint Staff, when changes to source documents reflected in
this publication are initiated.
c. Record of Changes:
CHANGE COPY DATE OF DATE POSTED

NUMBER NUMBER CHANGE ENTERED BY REMARKS
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
G-1
Appendix G
5. Distribution
a. Additional copies of this publication can be obtained through Service publication

centers.
b. Only approved pubs and test pubs are releasable outside the combatant commands,
Services, and Joint Staff. Release of any classified joint publication to foreign
governments or foreign nationals must be requested through the local embassy (Defense
Attaché Office) to DIA Foreign Liaison Office, PSS, Room 1A674, Pentagon,
Washington, DC 20301-7400.
c. Additional copies should be obtained from the Military Service assigned

administrative support responsibility by DOD Directive 5100.3, 1 November 1988,
“Support of the Headquarters of Unified, Specified, and Subordinate Joint Commands.”
By Military Services:
Army: US Army AG Publication Center SL

1655 Woodson Road
Attn: Joint Publications
St. Louis, MO 63114-6181
Air Force: Air Force Publications Distribution Center

2800 Eastern Boulevard
Baltimore, MD 21220-2896
Navy: CO, Naval Inventory Control Point

700 Robbins Avenue
Bldg 1, Customer Service
Philadelphia, PA 19111-5099
Marine Corps: Marine Corps Logistics Base

Albany, GA 31704-5000
Coast Guard: Coast Guard Headquarters, COMDT (G-OPD)

2100 2nd Street, SW
Washington, DC 20593-0001
d. Local reproduction is authorized and access to unclassified publications is

unrestricted. However, access to and reproduction authorization for classified joint
publications must be in accordance with DOD Regulation 5200.1-R.
G-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

GLOSSARY
PART I — ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS
AAM air-to-air missile

ALD airborne laser designator
ALLTV all light level television
ALO air liaison officer
ARBS angle rate bombing system
ATF Advanced Targeting FLIR
ATHS Airborne Target Handover System
BP battle position
CAS close air support

CBU cluster bomb unit
CLD compact laser designator
CLGP cannon-launched guided projectile
COLT combat observation and lasing team
COPPERHEAD name for cannon-launched guided projectile
DA direct action
DAP designated acquisition program
DOD Department of Defense
DTL designator target line
ESM electronic surveillance measures

ETAC enlisted terminal attack controllers
FAC forward air controller

FAC(A) forward air controller (airborne)
FAE fuel air explosive
FDC fire direction center
FIST fire support team
FLIR forward-looking infrared
FM frequency modulation
FO forward observer
FOV field of view
FSC fire support coordinator
FSCC fire support coordination center
FSO fire support officer
GBU guided bomb unit

GP general purpose
GPS global positioning system
G/VLLD ground/vehicle laser locator designator
GL-1
Glossary
HE high explosives
HEI high explosives incendiary
HUD heads-up display
IAW in accordance with

IDM improved data modem
IP initial point
IR infrared
J-3 Operations Directorate of a joint staff
km kilometer
LANTIRN low-altitude navigation and targeting infrared for

night
LDO laser designator operator
LEP laser eye protection
LGB laser-guided bomb
LGM laser-guided missile
LGW laser-guided weapon
LIF light interference filter
LLLGB low-level laser-guided bomb
LLLTV low-light level television
LMAV laser Maverick
LOAL lock-on after launch
LOAL-D lock-on after launch-direct
LOBL lock-on before launch
LOS line of sight
LRF/D laser range finder/detector
LST laser spot tracker
LTD laser target designator
LTD/R laser target designator/ranger
MAGTF Marine air-ground task force

MEU(SOC) Marine expeditionary unit (special operations capable)
MMS mast-mounted sight
MSL mean sea level
MTO message to observer
MULE modular universal laser equipment
NFLIR navigation forward-looking infrared

NGF naval gun fire
NOHD nominal ocular hazard distance
NTS night targeting system
NVG night vision goggle
NVS night vision system
GL-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

Glossary
PLS precision locator system
PRF pulse repetition frequency
SEAD suppression of enemy air defenses

SEAL sea-air-land team
SOF special operations forces
SOFLAM special operations laser marker
SOTAC special operations terminal attack controller
SSB single side band
TACP tactical air control party

TADS target acquisition system and designation sight
TFLIR targeting forward-looking infrared
TOF time of flight
TOW tube launched, optically tracked, wire guided
UHF ultra high frequency

USAF United States Air Force
USMC United States Marine Corps
USN United States Navy
VHF very high frequency

VIXL video transmission downlink
WP white phosphorous
GL-3
PART II — TERMS AND DEFINITIONS
air liaison officer. An officer (aviator/pilot) and movement of those forces. Also called
attached to a ground unit who functions as CAS. (Joint Pub 1-02)
the primary advisor to the ground
commander on air operation matters. Also enlisted terminal attack controller. Tactical
called ALO. (This term and its definition air party member who assists in mission
modify the existing term and its definition planning and provides final control of close
and are approved for inclusion in the next air support aircraft in support of ground
edition of Joint Pub 1-02.) forces. Also called ETAC. (This term and
its definition are approved for inclusion in
at my command. In artillery and naval the next edition of Joint Pub 1-02.)
gunfire support, the command used when
it is desired to control the exact time of fire support coordination center. A single
delivery of fire. (Joint Pub 1-02) location in which are centralized
communications facilities and personnel
attack heading. 1. The interceptor heading incident to the coordination of all forms of
during the attack phase that will achieve fire support. Also called FSCC. (This term
the desired track-crossing angle. 2. The and its definition modify the existing term
assigned magnetic compass heading to be and its definition and are approved for
flown by aircraft during the delivery phase inclusion in the next edition of Joint Pub 1-
of an air strike. (Joint Pub 1-02) 02.)
backscatter. Refers to a portion of the laser fire support element. That portion of the
energy that is scattered back in the direction force tactical operations center at every
of the seeker by an obscurant. (Upon echelon above company or troop (to corps)
approval of this revision, this term and its that is responsible for targeting coordination
definition will be approved for inclusion in and for integrating fires delivered on surface
the next edition of Joint Pub 1-02.) targets by fire-support means under the
control, or in support, of the force. Also
buffer zone. A conical volume centered on called FSE. (This term and its definition
the laser’s line-of-sight with its apex at the are approved for inclusion in the next
aperture of the laser, within which the beam edition of Joint Pub 1-02.)
will be contained with a high degree of
certainty. It is determined by the buffer fire support officer. Senior field artillery
angle. (This term and its definition are officer assigned to Army maneuver
approved for inclusion in the next edition battalions and brigades. Advises
of Joint Pub 1-02.) commander on fire-support matters. Also
called FSO. (This term and its definition
call for fire. A request for fire containing are approved for inclusion in the next
data necessary for obtaining the required edition of Joint Pub 1-02.)
fire on a target. (Joint Pub 1-02)
fire support team. An Army team provided
close air support. Air action by fixed- and by the field artillery component to each
rotary-wing aircraft against hostile targets maneuver company and troop to plan and
which are in close proximity to friendly coordinate all indirect fire means available
forces and which require detailed to the unit, including mortars, field artillery,
integration of each air mission with the fire close air support, and naval gunfire. Also

Glossary
called FIST. (This term and its definition head-up display. A display of flight,
are approved for inclusion in the next navigation, attack, or other information
edition of Joint Pub 1-02.) superimposed upon the pilot’s forward field
of view. Also called HUD. (This term and
forward air controller. An officer (aviator/ its definition modify the existing term and
pilot) member of the tactical air control its definition and are approved for inclusion
party who, from a forward ground or in the next edition of Joint Pub 1-02.)
airborne position, controls aircraft in close
air support of ground troops. Also called infrared pointer. A low power laser device
FAC. (This term and its definition modify operating in the near infrared light spectrum
the existing term and its definition and are that is visible with light amplifying night
approved for inclusion in the next edition vision devices. Also called IR pointer.
of Joint Pub 1-02.) (Joint Pub 1-02)
forward observer. An observer operating initial point. 1. The first point at which a
with front line troops and trained to adjust moving target is located on a plotting board.
ground or naval gunfire and pass back 2. A well-defined point, easily
battlefield information. In the absence of a distinguishable visually and/or
forward air controller the observer may electronically, used as a starting point for
control close air support strikes. Also called the bomb run to the target. 3. airborne - A
FO. (This term and its definition modify point close to the landing area where serials
the existing term and its definition and are (troop carrier air formations) make final
approved for inclusion in the next edition alterations in course to pass over individual
of Joint Pub 1-02.) drop or landing zones. 4. helicopter - An
air control point in the vicinity of the
gated laser intensifier. This is part of the landing zone from which individual flights
AC-130 low light level television (LLLTV) of helicopters are directed to their
targeting system and is used as an alternate prescribed landing sites. 5. Any designated
source of IR illumination. It also has the place at which a column or element thereof
capability to illuminate and identify IR is formed by the successive arrival of its
(“GLINT”) tape worn by friendly ground various subdivisions, and comes under the
forces. The drawback of the GLINT is it control of the commander ordering the
highlights the aircraft to enemy forces using move. Also called IP. (This term and its
night vision devices. Also called GLINT. definition modify the existing term and its
(This term and its definition are approved definition and are approved for inclusion
for inclusion in the next edition of Joint Pub in the next edition of Joint Pub 1-02.)
1-02.)
laser. Any device that can produce or amplify
grid coordinates. Coordinates of a grid optical radiation primarily by the process
coordinate system to which numbers and of controlled stimulated emission. A laser
letters are assigned for use in designating a may emit electromagnetic radiation from
point on a gridded map, photograph, or the ultraviolet portion of the spectrum
chart. (Joint Pub 1-02) through the infrared portion. Also, an
acronym for “light amplification by
gun-target line. An imaginary straight line stimulated emission of radiation”. (This
from gun to target. (Joint Pub 1-02) term and its definition are approved for
GL-5
Glossary
inclusion in the next edition of Joint Pub 1- laser target designator. A device that emits
02.) a beam of laser energy which is used to
mark a specific place or object. Also called
laser footprint. The projection of the laser LTD. (This term and its definition modify
beam and buffer zone on the ground or the existing term and its definition and are
target area. The laser footprint may be part approved for inclusion in the next edition
of the laser surface danger zone if that of Joint Pub 1-02.)
footprint lies within the nominal visual
hazard distance of the laser. (This term and laser-target/gun-target angle. The angle
its definition are approved for inclusion in between the laser-to-target line and the laser
the next edition of Joint Pub 1-02.) guided weapon/gun-target line at the point
where they cross the target. (This term and
laser-guided weapon. A weapon which uses its definition are approved for inclusion in
a seeker to detect laser energy reflected from the next edition of Joint Pub 1-02.)
a laser marked/designated target and
through signal processing provides laser-target line. An imaginary straight line
guidance commands to a control system from the laser designator to the target with
which guides the weapon to the point from respect to magnetic north. (This term and
which the laser energy is being reflected. its definition are approved for inclusion in
Also called LGW. (This term and its the next edition of Joint Pub 1-02.)
definition modify the existing term and its
definition and are approved for inclusion loft bombing. A method of bombing in which
in the next edition of Joint Pub 1-02.) the delivery plane approaches the target at
a very low altitude, makes a definite pullup
laser rangefinder. A device which uses laser at a given point, releases the bomb at a
energy for determining the distance from predetermined point during the pullup, and
the device to a place or object. (Joint Pub tosses the bomb onto the target. (Joint Pub
1-02) 1-02)
laser seeker. A device based on a direction milliradian. One thousandth of an angle

sensitive receiver which detects the energy whose apex is at the center of a circle and
reflected from a laser designated target and that subtends an arc of the circle equal in
defines the direction of the target relative length to the radius: equal to .0572958
to the receiver. (Joint Pub 1-02) degrees. (This term and its definition are
applicable only in the context of this
laser spot. The area on a surface illuminated publication and cannot be referenced
by a laser. (This term and its definition are outside this publication.)
approved for inclusion in the next edition
of Joint Pub 1-02.) offset lasing. The technique of aiming a laser
designator at a point other than the target
laser spot tracker. A device which locks on and, after laser acquisition, moving the laser
to the reflected energy from a laser-marked/ to designate the target for terminal attack
designated target and defines the direction guidance. (This term and its definition are
of the target relative to itself. Also called approved for inclusion in the next edition
LST. (This term and its definition modify of Joint Pub 1-02.)
the existing term and its definition and are
approved for inclusion in the next edition point target. 1. A target of such small
of Joint Pub 1-02.) dimension that it requires the accurate

Glossary
placement of ordnance in order to neutralize night infrared, laser, and beacon tactics and
or destroy it. 2. nuclear - A target in which equipment. Also called SOTAC. (This
the ratio of radius of damage to target radius term and its definition are approved for
is equal to or greater than 5. (Joint Pub inclusion in the next edition of Joint Pub 1-
1-02) 02.)
precision-guided munitions. A weapon that special tactics team. USAF Special

uses a seeker to detect electromagnetic Operations Forces with combat controllers
energy reflected from a target or reference assigned. The combat controllers are
point, and through processing, provides certified air traffic controllers with
guidance commands to a control system that additional qualifications as Special
guides the weapon to the target. Also called Operations Terminal Attack Controllers for
PGM. (This term and its definition are fire support operations. Also called STT.
approved for inclusion in the next edition (This term and its definition modify the
of Joint Pub 1-02.) existing term and its definition and are
approved for inclusion in the next edition
pulse code. A system of using selected pulse- of Joint Pub 1-02.)
repetition frequencies to allow a specific
laser seeker to acquire a target illuminated spillover. The part of the laser spot that is not
by a specific laser designator. (This term on the target because of beam divergence
and its definition are approved for inclusion or standoff range, improper boresighting of
in the next edition of Joint Pub 1-02.) laser designator, or poor operator
illuminating procedures. (This term and its
pulse repetition frequency. In lasers, the definition are approved for inclusion in the
number of pulses that occur each second. next edition of Joint Pub 1-02.)
(PRF should not be confused with
transmission frequency, which is splash. 1. In artillery and naval gunfire
determined by the rate at which cycles are support, word transmitted to an observer
repeated within the transmitted pulse). Also or spotter five seconds before the estimated
called PRF. (This term and its definition time of the impact of a salvo or round. 2.
modify the existing term and its definition In air interception, target destruction
and are approved for inclusion in the next verified by visual or radar means. (Joint
edition of Joint Pub 1-02.) Pub 1-02)
radar beacon. A receiver-transmitter spotter. An observer stationed for the purpose

combination which sends out a coded signal of observing and reporting results of naval
when triggered by the proper type of pulse, gunfire to the firing agency and who also
enabling determination of range and may be employed in designating targets.
bearing information by the interrogating (Joint Pub 1-02)
station or aircraft. (Joint Pub 1-02)
tactical air control party. A subordinate
special operations terminal attack operational component of a tactical air
controller. USAF combat control control system designed to provide air
personnel certified to perform the terminal liaison to land forces and for the control of
attack control function in support of Special aircraft. Also called TACP. (This term and
Operations Forces missions. Special its definition modify the existing term and
operations terminal attack controller its definition and are approved for inclusion
operations emphasize the employment of in the next edition of Joint Pub 1-02.)
GL-7
Glossary
target acquisition. The detection, pulls up in a vertical plane, releasing the
identification, and location of a target in bomb at an angle that will compensate for
sufficient detail to permit the effective the effect of gravity drop on the bomb.
employment of weapons. (Joint Pub 1-02) Similar to loft bombing; unrestricted as to
altitude. (Joint Pub 1-02)
toss bombing. A method of bombing where
an aircraft flies on a line towards the target,

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Joint Pub 3-09.

1. REPORT DATE 2. REPORT TYPE 3. DATES COVERED

6. AUTHOR(S) 5d. PROJECT NUMBER

5e. TASK NUMBER

5f. WORK UNIT NUMBER

7. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) 8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION

11. SPONSOR/MONITOR’S REPORT

12. DISTRIBUTION/AVAILABILITY STATEMENT

15. SUBJECT TERMS

Standard Form 298 (Rev. 8-98)

For the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff:

ii Joint Pub 3-09.1

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .......................................................................................... vii

• Introduction .............................................................................................................. I-1

• Laser Designator Characteristics .............................................................................. II-1

• General Procedures ................................................................................................ III-1

• Introduction ........................................................................................................... IV-1

• General ................................................................................................................... V-1

A Laser Equipment Descriptions .......................................................................... A-1

Part I Abbreviations and Acronyms ................................................................... GL-1

I-1 Infrared Electromagnetic Spectrum .............................................................. I-5

iv Joint Pub 3-09.1

vi Joint Pub 3-09.1

• Covers Laser Planning Considerations

• Discusses Laser Designation Procedures

• Provides a Discussion of Laser Codes

• Covers Laser Safety Considerations

Precision weapons will The light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation

Laser technology on the battlefield includes laser target ranging

Laser Target Acquisition

LDOs must carefully consider operating techniques and

Both ground and aerial observers can designate for laser-

Ground observers and aircraft can designate for close air

Laser designation support can also be provided to aircraft

viii Joint Pub 3-09.1

The primary danger from current laser designators is to

This publication provides tactics, techniques, and procedures

x Joint Pub 3-09.1

Conduct of the Persian Gulf War, Final Report to Congress,

1. Introduction and environment, LGWs may provide better

Unique laser-guided munitions capabilities can be fully exploited only with

I-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

e. Laser Spot Trackers. LSTs have a

I-4 Joint Pub 3-09.1

INFRARED ELECTROMAGNETIC SPECTRUM

0.62 0.99 1.06 1.54 3 5 8 12

Figure I-1. Infrared Electromagnetic Spectrum

Refer to Military Handbook 828A, “Laser comprehensive information in a one source

I-6 Joint Pub 3-09.1

1. Laser Designator can cause false seeker lock-on and target

Figure II-1. Mirrorlike Reflections (Perpendicular)

Figure II-2. Mirrorlike Reflections (Angular)

Figure II-3. Scattered Reflections

II-2 Joint Pub 3-09.1

Figure II-4. Laser Spillover

Figure II-5. Target Reflections (Perpendicular)

Figure II-6. Target Reflections (Angular)

Figure II-7. Vertical Reflections (Detectable)

j. Podium Effect. A “podium” effect can l. Target Material. Certain materials

II-4 Joint Pub 3-09.1