Definition

Noun: - Fire delivered to obtain accurate data for subsequent effective engagement of targets: This is a military term for a preliminary, often limited, use of weaponry to gather precise targeting information. The data collected from this fire is used to adjust aim and coordinate a larger, more effective attack on the target.

Usage

This term is used almost exclusively in professional military contexts, particularly in artillery, naval gunfire, or aerial bombardment. It describes a tactical action, not the resulting data.

Examples

• The artillery battery conducted a registration fire before the main assault to confirm the coordinates.
• Accurate registration fire is crucial for minimizing collateral damage in the subsequent strike.
• The forward observer called for registration fire on the hilltop to adjust the battalion's fire plan.

Advanced Usage

• The term is part of a specific procedural sequence in calling for fire support. It is a step that comes after the target is located but before the main "fire for effect" mission.

Variants and Related Words

• Fire for Effect (noun): The main engagement fire that follows after accurate targeting data has been obtained, often through registration fire.
• Adjusting Fire (noun): Fire used to adjust the aim onto a target, which is a broader category that can include registration fire.
• Spotting (noun): The act of observing the fall of rounds (like those from registration fire) to correct the aim.

Synonyms

• Ranging fire
• Adjustment fire
• Targeting fire

Antonyms

• Fire for effect (represents the subsequent, primary engagement as opposed to the preliminary data-gathering fire).
• Unobserved fire (fire delivered without observation for adjustment).

Noun

1. fire delivered to obtain accurate data for subsequent effective engagement of targets