MCRP 3-10e.8 FRMLY 3-16.5
MCRP 3-10e.8 FRMLY 3-16.5
MCRP 3-10e.8 FRMLY 3-16.5
15
MCRP 3-10E.8 (Formerly MCWP 3-16.5)
TACTICS, TECHNIQUES,
AND PROCEDURES FOR
FIELD ARTILLERY
METEOROLOGY
OCTOBER 2007
2 May 2016
ERRATUM
to
MCWP 3-16.5
1. Change all instances of MCWP 3-16.5, Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Field
Artillery Meteorology, to MCRP 3-10E.8, Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Field
Artillery Meteorology.
Contents
Page
PREFACE ..............................................................................................................x
Chapter 1 Commander and Staff Considerations........................................................... 1-1
Section I overview ............................................................................................ 1-1
Mission ............................................................................................................... 1-1
U.S. Army MET Sections.................................................................................... 1-2
U.S. Marine Corps MET Section ........................................................................ 1-2
MET Systems ..................................................................................................... 1-2
Capabilities ......................................................................................................... 1-2
Command and Control ....................................................................................... 1-4
Section II Operational Considerations ........................................................... 1-5
Scheduling and Positioning ................................................................................ 1-5
Profiler Characterization..................................................................................... 1-9
Chapter 2 Additional Sources of Meteorological Information....................................... 2-1
Allied Nations...................................................................................................... 2-1
U.S. Air Force ..................................................................................................... 2-2
U.S. Navy............................................................................................................ 2-2
Marine Corps ...................................................................................................... 2-2
Numerical Weather Prediction............................................................................ 2-2
Chapter 3 Weather and Its Effects.................................................................................... 3-1
i
Contents
Figures
Figure 1-1. MMS MET message area of validity.................................................................... 1-8
Figure 1-2 MMS–P MET message area of validity ................................................................ 1-9
Figure 1-3. Examples of positioning for wind....................................................................... 1-10
Figure 1-4. MET day ............................................................................................................ 1-11
Figure 1-5. Leapfrog movement technique.......................................................................... 1-14
Figure 1-6. Nonlinear battlefield........................................................................................... 1-17
Figure 2-1. 45 kilometers ....................................................................................................... 2-3
Figure 2-2. 15 kilometers ....................................................................................................... 2-4
Figure 2-3. 5 kilometers ......................................................................................................... 2-4
Figure 3-1. Earth’s atmosphere ............................................................................................. 3-1
Tables
Table 3-1. Atmospheric Structure of MET Message............................................................ 3-14
Table 5-1. Radar Scattering Camouflage Modules ............................................................... 5-5
Table 5-2. AN/TMQ-41 Section Personnel (U.S. Army) and AN/TMQ-41 Section
Personnel (U.S. Marine Corps) .......................................................................... 5-6
Table 6-1. Radar Scattering Camouflage Modules ............................................................... 6-5
Table 6-2. AN/TMQ-52 Section Personnel (US Army) .......................................................... 6-6
Table 7-1. Balloon Ascent Rate, Free Lift, Weight, and Bursting Altitude ............................. 7-6
Table 7-2. Weights of Attachments........................................................................................ 7-7
Table 7-3. Additional Weights for Adverse Weather Conditions (Sounding only) ................. 7-7
Table A-1. Security Classification Field Entries ..................................................................... A-3
Table A-2. FATDS MET Message Heading Fields ................................................................ A-5
Table A-3. FATDS Computer MET Message Body Symbols ................................................ A-7
Table A-4. FATDS Fallout MET Message Body Symbols ..................................................... A-7
Table A-5. FATDS Target Acquisition Message Symbols ..................................................... A-8
Table A-6. FATDS Ballistic MET Message Heading Symbols............................................... A-8
Table A-7. Ballistic MET Message Body Symbols................................................................. A-9
Table A-8. WMO MET Message Heading Symbols ............................................................ A-10
Table A-9 Octant of Globe Q Code...................................................................................... A-20
Table A-10. TA MET Message Groups................................................................................ A-28
Table A-11 Cloud Code ....................................................................................................... A-29
Table A-12. Zone Number Code.......................................................................................... A-29
Table A-13. Codes for Last Millibar Level That Winds Are Available .................................. A-33
Table A-14. Temperature Tenths Value Code..................................................................... A-33
Table A-15. Dew Point Depression Code ............................................................................ A-34
Table A-16. Mandatory Pressure Levels ............................................................................. A-35
Table A-17. Fixed Regional Levels ...................................................................................... A-40
Table A-18. Fixed Regional Level Data ............................................................................... A-42
Table A-19. Na-Total Amount of Cloud Cover ..................................................................... A-47
Table A-20. Additional Codes .............................................................................................. A-47
Table A-21. D-Direction From Which Surface Wind is Blowing........................................... A-48
Table A-22. F-Force of Surface Wind (Beaufort Scale)....................................................... A-48
Table A-23. V-Visibility at Surface ....................................................................................... A-49
Table A-24. w-Present Weather and Obstructions to Vision ............................................... A-50
Table A-25. A’-Amplification of Phenomenon Reported by w.............................................. A-51
Table A-26. R-State of Road in Vicinity of the Observation Point ....................................... A-52
Table A-27. T-State of Terrain in the Vicinity of the Observation Point ............................... A-52
Table A-28. A-Sate of Water Surface .................................................................................. A-52
Table A-29. Nh-Amount of Cloud Reported at Height ha .................................................... A-53
Table A-30. ha-Height of the Lowest Cloud Layer Above the Observation Point ............... A-54
Table A-31. Hs-Average Height of Breakers....................................................................... A-54
Table A-32. Ps-Period of Breakers (Seconds) Time Required for Successive
Breakers to Pass a Given Point....................................................................... A-54
Table A-33. Dw-Direction of Approach of Waves To Beach (Observers Back to Sea) ...... A-54
Table A-34. Ws-Width of Surf Zone (Distance from Edge of Water to the Point
Seaward that the White Caps of the Surf Begin to Appear) ............................ A-55
Table B-1. Amount of Low/Middle Cloud, Nh ..........................................................................B-2
Table B-2. Coding of Low Cloud, CL ......................................................................................B-2
Table B-3. Height of Cloud Base Above Ground, h ...............................................................B-3
Table B-4. Coding of Middle Cloud, CM ..................................................................................B-4
Table B-5. Coding of High Cloud, CH .....................................................................................B-5
Table C-1. Symbols in Message Request for MET Support ................................................. C-1
Table C-2. Q Code for Octant of the Globe........................................................................... C-2
Table C-3. Line Codes for Ballistic MET Messages (Type 2 or 3) ........................................ C-2
Table C-4. Zone Number Codes for Target Acquisition MET Message ............................... C-3
Table C-5. Zone Number Codes for Computer MET Messages........................................... C-4
Table D-1. Acronyms and Abbreviations............................................................................... D-1
Table F-1. LORAN Chains’ Stations.......................................................................................F-1
Table H-1 Material Safety Data Sheet................................................................................... H-3
Table H-2. Environmental Laws and Regulations ................................................................. H-5
Table H-3. Regulatory Training Requirements...................................................................... H-6
Table H-4. Common Environmental Hazards ....................................................................... H-8
Table H-5. Examples of Environmental Controls .................................................................. H-9
Preface
This publication provides the United States Army and United States Marine Corps (USMC) commanders,
artillerymen, and meteorology (MET) crew members with tactics, techniques, and procedures for the
employment of MET sections. This publication describes the equipment and tasks required to develop MET
data from the selection of the MET station location to the dissemination of the MET data.
This publication implements the following North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) standardization
agreements (STANAGs).
• STANAG 4103, Format of Request for Meteorological Message for Ballistic and Special
Purposes.
This publication applies to U.S. Army and Marine Corps planning and warfighting personnel, the Active Army,
the Army National Guard/Army National Guard of the United States, and the United States Army Reserve
unless otherwise stated.
The proponent of this publication is United States Training and Doctrine Command. Send comments and
recommendations on DA Form 2028 (Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms) directly to:
Commandant
U.S. Army Field Artillery School
ATTN: ATSF-DD
Fort Sill, OK 73503-5600
Chapter 1
Combat experience has proven the importance of providing accurate and timely
meteorological data to both artillery and other units. MET sections provide data to
enhance first round accuracy, effective downwind predictions, intelligence
preparation of the battlefield, and forecast capabilities of the staff weather officer.
The commander and staff must include meteorology in the planning process. The
planning process focuses on what data is needed, who needs it, and how will they get
it. Artillery meteorology, as one of the five requirements for accurate predicted fires,
plays an increasingly vital role in today’s changing operational environment.
Accuracy of indirect fires increases the lethality and directly relates to other issues of
strategic importance such as collateral damage.
1-1. Since MET is one of the five requirements for accurate and predicted fires it is considered part of the
precision fires system of systems. MET sections provide data to enhance first round accuracy, effective
downwind predictions, intelligence preparation of the battlefield, and forecast capabilities of the staff
weather officer. The commander and staff who include meteorology in the planning process should always
use the most accurate MET data available as it will benefit the most. The planning process focuses on what
data is needed, who needs it, and how will they acquire it.
SECTION I OVERVIEW
NOTE: The U.S. Army Intelligence Center and Fort Huachuca is the proponent for Army
general and tactical weather requirements, except those relating to artillery MET.
MISSION
1-2. The mission of the MET section is to produce and disseminate valid and timely MET data in
formatted messages. Example messages and checking procedures are at appendix A. These messages are as
follows:
z Computer
z Ballistic (type 2 and type 3)
z Target acquisition
z Target area MET (Meteorological Measuring Set–Profiler [MMS-P] only)
z Basic wind report (MMS–P only)
z Fallout MET (FOMET)
z World Meteorological Organization (WMO) messages
z Sound ranging messages to allied units.
MET SYSTEMS
1-5. There are two basic MET systems deployed throughout the field artillery: The Meteorological
Measuring Set (MMS), AN/TMQ-41, and the Meteorological Measuring Set–Profiler (MMS–P),
AN/TMQ-52. These systems are highly mobile, automated data processing and MET data acquisition
systems. Both systems operate in any type of climatic condition and over any type of terrain where tactical
operations require employment of FA. The preferred meteorological support assets during traditional
maneuver warfare are the MMS-P and the MMS. Both systems are vehicle-borne systems. The MMS-P
provides localized now-casts of atmospheric numerical weather predictions, whereas the MMS provides
meteorological data to using units by tracking a balloon borne radiosonde, which provides vertical zoned
atmospheric numerical meteorological output.
MMS (AN/TMQ-41)
1-6. The AN/TMQ-41 uses three passive modes to track a balloon-borne radiosonde that transmits the
upper air data to the ground station. These are the radio navigational aid (NAVAID), radio direction
finding (RDF), and Global Positioning System (GPS) modes. The NAVAID and GPS modes have a remote
launch capability. The AN/TMQ-41 can track the radiosonde and process data while on the move.
MMS-P (AN/TMQ-52)
1-7. The AN/TMQ-52 uses mesoscale modeling (MM5) with 4-kilometer grid spacing granularity, as
well as software coupled with the Unified Post Processing System (UPPS) to generate MET data upon
request. The MM5 model ingests upper air data (NAVAID and GPS modes), surface observation data,
terrain data, regional observations, and large scale weather data. The MM5 model also takes into
consideration historical, topographical, climatological weather data, as well as vertical and horizontal
resolutions. The resulting model output is transferred to the UPPS to eliminate model biases. The model
restarts every 30 minutes, providing data with a staleness of no more than 30 minutes. Using this data, the
MMS-P generates MET data for the mid point of the trajectory, which is based on the gun location and the
target location as well as target area MET. Additionally, the AN/TMQ-52 is capable of operating in two
degraded modes (see paragraph 1-9). Future block improvements to MMS–P include decreasing the
reliance on radiosondes, decreasing the amount of section equipment, and decreasing the number of section
personnel. The ultimate goal of profiler is to be imbedded on to the firing platform.
CAPABILITIES
1-8. The capabilities of the met section vary based on the specific system being used. Both systems
provide met data for use by the field artillery. The mms system is the older system and operational concept
is based on providing met data from radiosonde observations. The mms-p operational concept is based on
the system ingesting a variety of sources of raw met input and producing met data via a model.
1-9. While both systems retain the essential capabilities of obtaining, processing, and disseminating
met data, the operational concept of the MMS-P provides the met section with more capabilities than the
mms.
ARTILLERY S3
1-16. The artillery operations officer (S3) has primary staff responsibility for the control and operations of
artillery MET assets. The operations officer is advised on the technical aspects of MET systems by the
MET station leader. For MET employment, the operations officer—
z Prepares the MET plan, which is a tab to the FA support plan. During the preparation of the
MET plan, considers the following:
Commander’s intent and concept of the operation.
Tactical situation.
Terrain features and wind direction.
MET assets available.
Location of units to be supported.
Communications means required.
Scheduling requirements.
z Coordinates with the SWO to determine AFW requirements.
z Coordinates with MET station leader and unit signal staff officers to prioritize means of
communication and dissemination of messages and to assign radiosonde frequencies.
z Coordinates all radiosonde flight schedules of MET sections within the area of operations (AO)
to provide optimal coverage to supported units. This is very important when providing MET
support for other than artillery requirements, since flight times are longer for these missions.
z Monitors the operational status of MET sections regarding personnel, maintenance, and
logistics.
z Advises the commander on factors affecting MET section mission capabilities.
z Coordinates with adjacent units and the assistant operations officer at the next higher command
echelon to maximize MET message coverage. MET messages from adjacent units may be used.
z Coordinates with the MET station leader to develop a positioning scheme for all MET assets in
support of the mission.
z Coordinates with maneuver and supported units to gain approval to move MET sections through
and to occupy terrain.
z Coordinates with the MET section and supported units to execute remote launch procedures to
expand areas of validity.
assets. He also is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the MET section. Specifically, the MET
station leader—
z Helps the operations officer prepare the MET plan.
z Advises the operations officer on the employment and operation of the MET assets within the
division area.
z Supervises MET section operations.
z Coordinates with the logistics officer for logistical support.
z Performs site selection and location.
z Directs the operation, emplacement, and displacement of the MET section.
z Performs first sergeant type duties when operating independently.
z Maintains quality control of MET data.
z Organizes and supervises the MET section training program.
z Advises the operations officer on all factors affecting mission capabilities, such as personnel,
maintenance, and logistics.
NOTE: In most cases, local aviation policies and regulations require aviation tower or flight
operations to be notified prior to release of a balloon in an aviation operations area.
SCHEDULING
1-21. Scheduling considerations are different for the MMS and MMS–P systems. The MMS system
determines MET data from balloon-borne radiosondes. The resulting MET data is broadcast to users (Push
method) based on a schedule of balloon flights determined by operational requirements. The MMS–P
system determines MET data from a mesoscale model of the area of operations. Data produced by the
MMS-P may be disseminated by a user querying the system (Pull) or met data may be broadcast to users
(Push).
MMS Scheduling
1-22. The operations officer is responsible for scheduling flights within the area of operations. Users who
require MET support and who are not in normal MET message dissemination schemes forward their
request for MET support to the artillery operations officer. The format for the request is in appendix C. The
operations officer will coordinate with firing units and other MET data users (especially the SWO for
AFW requirements and the chemical officer for downwind prediction requirements) to determine if there
are any special requirements that must be considered. This includes the flight schedule in the MET support
plan. MET data will be transmitted to subscriber units (Push method) based on this schedule. In
coordination with the MET station leader, the operations officer develops a flight schedule based on the
following:
z Mission requirements (low and high altitude flights).
z Area of validity (terrain).
z Prevailing winds.
z Transition periods.
z Availability of supplies.
MMS–P Scheduling
1-23. The MMS–P system provides more scheduling flexibility owing to the nature of how the MMS–P
obtains MET data. The MMS–P does not solely rely on a balloon borne radiosonde to provide a MET data.
When operating under normal conditions, the MMS–P primarily relies on a mesoscale model to develop
MET data. Modeling provides the MMS–P the capability of producing an updated MET message every 30
minutes. Options for scheduling MET from an MMS–P equipped section are—
z MET may be requested (pull method) by subscriber units.
z MET may be scheduled at predetermined times (Push method).
z MET may be scheduled based on changes in weather conditions as determined by the MET
section leader.
z MET may be scheduled on call as determined by the artillery mission.
1-24. When operating in MMS only degraded mode, the MMS–P relies on balloon-borne radiosonde
soundings to develop a MET message. MET messages are generated upon request, but the area of MET
validity is reduced from 60 to 30 kilometers.
NOTE: A practical approach should be observed when scheduling MET from MMS or MMS–P
equipped sections. Scheduling should be based on times when MET data will make the greatest
contribution to correcting MET error. MET station leaders are encouraged to provide the
artillery operations officer information relating to routine and nonroutine changes in the
weather. This allows the operations officer to schedule MET at time most beneficial to the
artillery.
1-25. Request for MET for an MMS–P equipped section may take the form of—
z Manual plain text message (or secure) digital message.
z Automated digital message request.
z Voice (radio or landline).
z Courier.
NOTE: All requests for MET for an MMS–P equipped section must include the gun and target
information. If the MET request is for multiple firing units, the gun location will be the battery
center.
Scheduling MET for Firing Units Supporting Maneuver Units on the Move
1-26. Scheduling MET for firing units that are supporting maneuver units on the move will be different as
a result of the different capabilities of the MMS and MMS-P. The different areas of validity for the two
system will dictate scheduling MET for firing units supporting maneuver on the move.
1-27. Another consideration when scheduling MET for firing units supporting maneuver units on the move
is the process by which met data is produced. When scheduling MET from a MMS, consideration should
be given to the time required to conduct a radiosonde observation. Whereas the MMS-P does not have the
limitation of waiting on the completion of a Radiosonde Observation prior to producing Met Data. MET
Data (Push Method)
1-38. The area of validity for the MMS–P is 60 kilometers. This extended AMV gives planners additional
flexibility in providing MET coverage. The MMS–P uses terrain data when calculating MET data negating
the effects of terrain on AMV. If the MMS–P is operating in degraded mode (valid NOGAPS data is not
available), the AMV for the MMS–P is 30 kilometers. See figure 1-2 for the AMV for the MMS–P.
1-39. The MMS–P generates MET data based on the midpoint between the requesting unit’s location and
the target location. This capability coupled with the 60-kilometer AMV provides planners with increased
flexibility when positioning the MMS–P.
PROFILER CHARACTERIZATION
1-40. Characterization of the Profiler can be looked at as an evaluation to determine its strengths and
weaknesses. There have been three characterizations of the Profiler to determine how well the system
could perform out to 500 KM from its’ position without the radiosonde. The characterization results
indicate the radiosonde had little effect on accuracy of the MET DATA produced by the Profiler when
current NOGAPS is used by the system. The overall accuracy of the system was similar to that seen during
the Developmental Test.
1-41. Based on the characterization results, Profiler without a balloon and radiosonde should be considered
a viable solution for accurate MET data when radiosondes are scarce or not available.
PREVAILING WINDS
1-42. Prevailing winds has a greater effect on positioning mms equipped sections than MMS-P equipped
sections. The manner in which met data is produced and the increased area of validity for the mms-p
removes much of the effect of prevailing winds on the positioning of the MMS-P.
1-43. MMS equipped sections are significantly affected by prevailing winds due to the need to produce
data from radiosonde observations.
1-46. If the prevailing wind pattern is from a flank, (see figure 1-3, [B]), the MET section is employed so
that the sounding balloon will measure the atmosphere in the zones where most of the weapon trajectories
will pass.
TRANSITION PERIODS
1-48. The validity of a MET message decreases over time. There are no specific rules for determining how
long a MET message is usable because that determination depends on the atmospheric conditions. The
general guidance to help the operations officer prepare flight schedules for soundings is discussed below.
(See figure 1-4.)
1-49. During and just after sunrise, temperature changes occur as the atmosphere becomes heated.
Temperatures are more stable throughout the afternoon. Therefore, soundings are performed more often
(every 2 hours) in the morning and less often (every 4 hours) in the afternoon.
1-50. As sunset approaches, the air cools rapidly. During this time, changing temperatures are monitored
closely. Flight schedules may need adjusting (to one every 2 hours) as the atmosphere cools. The cooling
of the air stabilizes about 2 hours after sunset.
1-51. During night and early morning hours, the atmosphere reaches maximum cooling and becomes
stabilized. During this time, soundings could be taken at intervals that exceed 2 hours, and 4-hour intervals
between flights are common.
NOTE: The MMS–P provides more flexibility during transition periods as a result of the
systems capability to generate a new MET message every 30 minutes.
FRONTAL PASSAGES
1-52. The passage of a weather front is associated with changes in current conditions. Because of this, the
MET section should conduct a sounding immediately following the passage of a front. As a result, MET
schedules may be adjusted. The modeling capability of the MMS–P predicts the effects of frontal activity
when processing data for MET messages. The effects of frontal passages are similar for the MMS and the
MMS–P when the MMS–P is operating in a degraded mode.
COMMANDER’S INTENT
1-53. Regardless of the above, the tactical situation and the immediate needs of the field artillery
commander are the main considerations that determine positioning and scheduling.
EMPLOYMENT PLANNING
NOTE: Army MET sections may use hydrogen gas for inflation. This gas is extremely volatile.
Leaders at all levels must consider safety and environmental protection requirements during the
planning process. For MMS–P equipped sections, hydrogen gas is only available in commercial
bottles. See appendix H for additional information
1-60. When planning the employment of artillery assets in the division area, the commander and staff use
the staff planning process outlined in FM 5-0. The planning of MET operations in support of the
commander's intent and concept of the operation should be included in this process. This planning is done
by the operations officer and the MET station leader.
MISSION
1-62. The type of mission assigned to a MET section greatly influences its positioning. The main
consideration in positioning a MET section when it is providing MET data in support of artillery operations
is to locate the section where it provides optimum coverage for the most firing units. Other (high-altitude)
MET support requirements, such as AFW support and FOMET message production to support smoke or
Chemical Biological Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) operations, also influence the positioning of MET
assets.
1-63. The MMS–P has the capability of generating target area meteorology (TAM) data. This data is used
by planners when selecting the type of munitions to use against a target. Meteorological conditions may
limit the effectiveness of certain types of munitions. TAM data allows planners to select the most effective
munitions to neutralize the target.
ENEMY
1-64. The enemy situation, capabilities, and probable courses of action developed by the S2 during
intelligence preparation of the battlefield (IPB) greatly determine the employment of MET assets. Security
of the sections must be weighed against mission requirements.
TERRAIN
1-65. Terrain acts upon the area of validity of MET messages for the MMS system. Generally, the AMV
decreases as the distance from the user increases. Mountainous terrain and large bodies of water also affect
validity areas. The MMS–P system uses terrain data. Using this data, the weather model accounts for the
affects of terrain. Terrain does not have an effect on the AMV for the MMS–P system.
TROOPS
1-66. The size of the area to be covered and the disposition of artillery units greatly govern the way the
MMS MET section is employed. The section must be positioned where it can provide support for the
largest number of firing units. MET sections also should be located where logistical support can be
provided. Finally, MET sections must be within effective and practical communications range of the units
they support. Positioning of the MMS–P section is less dependent on the location of the firing units owing
to the 60-kilometer AMV.
TIME AVAILABLE
1-67. The operations officer and the MET station leader must consider how much time is required for
reconnaissance, movement, and occupation of initial and subsequent section positions. Upon arrival at a
location, the MET section requires about 20 minutes to emplace. Displacement time is approximately 15
minutes. Travel time is figured at the standard rate for the local conditions for wheeled vehicles.
CIVIL CONSIDERTIONS
1-68. Civil considerations relate to the civilian population, culture, organizations, and leaders within the
AO. The operations officer and the MET station leader must consider how all MET operations may directly
or indirectly affect the civilian population. This will include civilian activities and attitudes in the profiler’s
employment area
TACTICAL MOVEMENT
1-72. A MET section may deploy anywhere on the battlefield to achieve its mission of providing MET
support. Movement may be toward or away from the frontline trace or laterally, depending on weather
conditions (mainly prevailing wind direction) and the tactical situation. The requirement to provide
continuous coverage is an important consideration in determining movement schedules. A number of
widely separated section positions must be planned. Additionally, an analysis of areas of MET validity is
necessary. Primary, alternate, and possibly even third-choice position areas are selected. The operations
officer coordinates with the maneuver element to receive approval for occupation of positions and to obtain
route clearances. MET sections then must conduct reconnaissance and select the most suitable sites within
the areas.
1-73. The increased AMV and capability of the MMS–P to generate MET data based on the midpoint
between the firing unit location and target provides greater flexibility to planners when deploying
MMS–P equipped MET sections. The ability of the MMS–P to generate MET data is not affected by
prevailing winds and terrain and is not a limiting factor when positioning the system.
MET SUPPORT IN THE OFFENSE
1-74. Each MET section must be prepared to increase the frequency of message production. For MMS
equipped MET sections, planning in support of the operation must ensure adequate supplies are available
to meet increased demand. Prior planning allows the MMS equipped MET section to increase frequency of
flights and transmissions of MET data. The MMS–P equipped MET section, using the weather model, is
not required to increase balloon flights to respond to increased demands for MET data.
MOVEMENT TECHNIQUE
1-75. The basic movement technique is leapfrogging. When the battle is fluid and the rate of movement is
rapid, MET sections may employ the leapfrogging technique to keep pace. In this technique, one MET
section, having established a position, remains in operation while a second displaces to a new location.
When the second section becomes operational, the first section is displaced by moving past the newly
occupied position of the second section. This procedure is repeated as often as necessary. (See figure1-5.)
1-76. The leapfrogging technique is still a valid movement technique for the MMS–P equipped section.
The increased AMV of the MMS–P system requires less movement to keep up with the flow of the
battlefield. Movement planners will have to monitor the AMV of the MMS–P systems and reposition
systems as necessary to maintain continuous coverage.
COMMUNICATIONS
1-78. Disseminating met data to the firing units is an important part of the mission of the met section. A
specific plan for disseminating met data is necessary.
1-79. The communications plan will provide critical information relating to methods of communication,
coordination procedures, and operational procedures.
COMMUNICATIONS PLANS
1-80. MET data is perishable. The timely dissemination of messages is essential. Digital communications
is the primary means of MET message distribution. MET messages may be disseminated in a centralized or
decentralized manner, depending on the tactical situation. Centralized dissemination normally is used when
the tactical situation is stable. Decentralized dissemination may be used when the controlling headquarters
is continually relocating or its capability to relay data was terminated. The communications plans must
support the deployment of MET assets within the AO. The operations officer establishes communications
priorities and means of dissemination and incorporates them into the MET plan. Unit plans and procedures
documents should address the following:
z Communications means.
z Assignment of radiosonde frequencies.
z Procedures for coordinating MET support from adjacent units.
z Network identification information.
z Procedures for passing AFW and FOMET messages to the staff weather officer.
METHODS OF COMMUNICATIONS
1-81. The MMS equipped MET section normally transmits all messages (Push method) to its controlling
headquarters’ fire direction center (FDC). The FDC then passes the MET messages electronically to the
using elements. The FDC must pass the AFW and FOMET messages to the controlling fire support
element (FSE) for dissemination to the SWO and chemical officers. This data is used for forecasting,
downwind predictions, and close air support.
1-82. The MMS–P equipped MET section (220C Protocol) transmits MET messages upon request (pull
method) directly to the using unit with the controlling headquarters acting as a relay. (MMS–P sections
using 220A Protocols uses the push method of disseminating MET.)
RADIO COMMUNICATIONS
1-83. Each MET section is authorized the single-channel ground and airborne radio system (SINCGARS).
The section operates in two tactical radio nets as directed by the controlling headquarters. Normally, these
are the FA command net for C2 and a FA operations/fire net for MET message dissemination. When
digital radio communication is not possible, the MET section may disseminate messages by frequency
modulation voice.
WIRE
1-84. Whenever practical, wire lines are installed for voice and digital communications with the supported
units. Radios serve as a backup means of dissemination.
MESSENGERS
1-85. Messengers may be used when communications systems are not functioning or if the supported unit
is nearby. However, extensive travel time for delivery may exhaust the validity time.
There are additional sources of meteorological (MET) information when MET data is
not available from organic assets. This chapter discusses these sources.
ALLIED NATIONS
2-1. Because there will be occasions when the artillery of one nation may wish to use the MET data
produced by the MET services of another, standard forms of MET message structure and standards have
been agreed upon. Through North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) standardization agreements
(STANAGs) the U.S., along with several of its allies, has adopted a standard database from which all MET
information is derived. This means that atmospheric data can be freely exchanged among member
countries with the assurance that the same atmospheric standards were used. Member countries produce
ballistic data that is applicable to U.S. Army weapons systems. When exchanging data between member
countries, commanders and operations officers must ensure that the validity criteria explained in chapter 1
are applied. MET station leaders can advise commanders and operations officers on these matters. The
following is a list of countries that have adopted these standards:
z Belgium
z Bulgaria
z Canada
z Czech Republic
z Denmark
z Estonia
z France
z Germany
z Greece
z Hungary
z Iceland
z Italy
z Latvia
z Lithuania
z Luxembourg
z Netherlands
z Norway
z Poland
z Portugal
z Romania
z Slovakia
z Slovenia
z Spain
z Turkey
z United Kingdom
z United States
U.S. NAVY
2-3. The U.S. Navy has mobile environmental teams capable of sounding the atmosphere and producing
ballistic data. The message produced is in STANAG format. These teams are deployed on a mission basis.
The teams are composed of one to five members. They typically support their own units, but also support
joint operations and could be requested to support U.S. Army artillery operations. Requests for support
must be coordinated well in advance of the time of need.
2-4. The U.S. Navy produces the worldwide forecast model data using the Navy Operational Global
Atmospheric Prediction System (NOGAPS). The data is not direct MET observation data, but resultant
forecast data created after analysis. The NOGAPS data is broadcast via satellite twice daily (every 12
hours) by the Air Force Weather Agency (AFWA). Each transmission provides 72 hours of valid data.
MARINE CORPS
2-5. The Marine Corps fields four MET teams per artillery regiment. Each team is equipped with the
AN/TMQ-49 Meteorological Station Group (MSG), which includes the AN/TMQ-41 meteorological
measuring set (MMS), as well as visual meteorological measuring equipment (PI-BAL). These teams are
capable of producing meteorological data in useable formats for artillery, mortar, target acquisition assets,
nuclear biological and chemical downwind data and data that can be incorporated into meteorological
models.
2-7. Numerical Weather Prediction takes into account historical, topographical, climatological weather
data, as well as vertical and horizontal resolutions, to form a mesoscale model of the atmosphere. Local
Upper Air Observations ((Radiosonde Observations) in the form of World Meteorological Organization
(WMO) messages can be ingested into this model to refine the numerical data and decrease model bias.
The resolution chosen for a certain region will determine how many MET points are available to pull
numerical data from a particular area. There are currently three different resolutions used: 45 kilometers,
15 kilometers, and 5 kilometers. (see figures 2-1, 2-2, and 2-3)
2-8. The 45-kilometer resolution is the least preferred resolution. When this resolution is chosen for an
area of operations, the using unit could be a maximum of 22.5 kilometers away from the closest MET
point. The 45-kilometer resolution can produce a numerical forecast every 3 hours for up to 72 hours in
advance.
NOTE: Using 45-kilometer resolution, your MET point can be up to 22.5 kilometers away from
the requesting unit.
2-9. The 15-kilometer resolution is available in most regions. When using the 15 kilometers for an area,
the using unit could be a maximum of 7.5 kilometers away from the closest MET point. The numerical
forecast from the 15-kilometer resolution can be produced every 3 hours for up to 48 hours in advance.
Non-classified Internet Protocol Router Network (NIPRNET) is required to obtain 45 kilometers and 15
kilometers data.
NOTE: Using 15-kilimeter resolution, your MET location can be up to 7.5 kilometers away
from the requesting unit.
2-10. The 5-kilimeter resolution is the preferred resolution when available. However, it is currently only
available in contingency areas and other locations for brief periods of time during testing operations or
upon special requests. Five-kilometer resolutions are only available on the Secret Internet Protocol Router
Network (SIPRNET). When the 5-kilometer resolution is selected for an area, the using unit could be a
maximum of 2.5 kilometers away from the closest MET point. The 5-kilometer resolution can produce a
numerical forecast every hour on the hour for up to 24 hours in advance. Currently, 5 kilometers is the best
resolution available. A 1.66-kilometer resolution will soon be available via the SIPRNET as well. Data
obtained from Numerical Weather Prediction is usually manually entered into fire direction programs.
Remember that when operating in contingency areas, the best resolution possible will always be available.
NOTE: Using 5-kilometer resolution, your MET location can be up to 2.5 kilometers away from
the requesting unit.
2-11. Commanders should consider this capability as a viable option for Meteorological support, if their
MMS or MMS–Profiler are not operational and should always; whenever possible, consult Meteorological
personnel for the best available option of Meteorological support for a specific area of operations. For
more information on numerical weather prediction, contact the Meteorology Instruction School, Fort Sill,
Oklahoma.
NOTE: If the altitude on the Computer Meteorological Message (METCM) is different from the
firing battery altitude, the Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System (AFATDS) will adjust
the pressure and temperature to the altitude of the firing battery, however the winds will not be
changed.
Weather greatly impacts military operations. Weather data is part of the intelligence
information required to plan and conduct combat operations. This chapter discusses
terms and the impact weather has on the field artillery operations.
ATMOSPHERE
3-2. The atmosphere (figure 3-1) is the envelope of air that surrounds the earth in several distinct layers.
It is the lower portion of the atmosphere that concerns artillery meteorologists.
TROPOSPHERE
3-3. About three-quarters of the air in the atmosphere is compressed into the lowest layer, which is called
the troposphere. In this layer, the change of temperature in relation to height is relatively large. It is the
region where clouds form and air masses continuously mix. Within the troposphere, air consists of 78
percent nitrogen; 21 percent oxygen; and 1 percent argon, carbon dioxide, and minute amounts of other
gases. Air also contains variable amounts of water vapor and a mixture of minute impurities, such as
particles of dust and salt. The thickness of the troposphere varies with the season of the year. However, it is
generally 8 kilometers thick at the poles and 18 kilometers thick at the equator.
TROPOPAUSE
3-4. The top of the troposphere is known as the tropopause. It is a transition zone between the
troposphere and the stratosphere. It acts as a lid that tends to hold in the lower atmosphere. This lid
contains occasional breaks and overlaps that provide paths for high-velocity winds called jet streams. The
jet streams cause constant turbulence and mixing of the lower atmosphere. It is this mixing of air masses
that causes our weather. The weather below the tropopause has the greatest effect on artillery operations.
STRATOSPHERE
3-5. The layer immediately above the tropopause is the stratosphere. It has a stable temperature in the
lower half of the layer and an almost complete lack of clouds. In the upper half of the stratosphere, at about
25 kilometers, the temperature begins to increase with height up to about 50 kilometers at the stratopause.
In the stratopause, the temperature is about the same as that at the earth’s surface. This warm region is
caused by the presence of ozone, which absorbs part of the ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Without the
ozone layer, life on earth would be difficult, if not impossible. Further layers are not discussed because
artillery data is gathered only to an altitude of 30,000 meters.
HEAT
3-6. Determining the level of heat and how heat is transferred is significant when considering weather
effects.
3-7. Understanding the correlation of the different temperature scales enhances accuracy when utilizing
or converting between the different temperature scales.
CONVECTION
3-8. Convection is the transfer of heat by the physical movement of heated substances, such as liquid or
gas. In MET, convection denotes vertical air motion.
CONDUCTION
3-9. Conduction is the transfer of heat between two parts of a stationary system caused by a temperature
difference between the parts. Conduction warms the layer of air in contact with the earth's surface during
daylight, which causes it to expand and become less dense. The less dense air rises and is replaced by
cooler air, which is warmed in turn, thus creating a convective cell.
TURBULENCE
3-10. On a small scale, this vertical motion is called turbulence and is quite irregular because of unequal
heating and cooling over various types of terrain. On a large scale, the vertical motion in conjunction with
the horizontal motion carries excess heat from equatorial regions to the cooler areas at higher latitudes.
This mass transfer of heat by means of large-scale movement of the atmosphere is essential in the overall
heat balance of the world.
TEMPERATURE SCALES
3-11. There are three different scales used to express temperature. The most familiar is the Fahrenheit (F)
scale. On the Fahrenheit scale, the freezing point of water is 32 degrees. Another scale is the Celsius (C)
scale on which the freezing point of water is O degrees. The third scale is the Kelvin (K) scale on which
the freezing point of water is 273.2 degrees. The Kelvin scale has no negative values and is often used for
temperature computations. A direct relation exits between these scales (figure 3-2).
MOISTURE
3-12. The various forms of moisture are more involved with weather than any other weather aspects.
Almost no important weather takes place without it. Without some form of moisture, there would be no
clouds or precipitation.
3-13. The discussion of water vapor and relative humidity is essential to understanding the development
process of many significant aspects of weather.
WATER VAPOR
3-14. The oceans provide the major source of moisture for the air. Every day the energy from the sun
transforms millions of tons of water into water vapor. Air currents then distribute the water vapor within
the atmosphere. Though water vapor represents only a small percentage of the atmospheric gases, it is by
far the most important in relation to weather processes. There is an upper limit to the amount of water
vapor that can be contained in any given volume of air at a specific temperature. Warm air can hold more
water than cool air.
RELATIVE HUMIDITY
3-15. The moisture content of air can be expressed in several different terms. However, the most common
term is relative humidity. Relative humidity is the ratio (percentage) of the actual amount of water vapor
present in the air to the maximum amount of water vapor the air could hold at the existing pressure and
temperature. As the air cools and its ability to hold water vapor decreases, the percentage of relative
humidity increases until saturation (100 percent) occurs. At this saturation point, water vapor begins to
condense into water droplets around particles of salt or dust in the atmosphere. As droplets grow bigger
and heavier, they eventually fall toward the earth as rain or snow, depending on the temperature of the
atmospheric levels through which they pass.
ATMOSPHERIC PRESSURE
DEFINITION
3-16. Since the atmosphere is a mixture of gases, it is quite natural to think of air as being very light in
weight. However, the total weight of the entire atmosphere is tremendous. If the entire weight of the
atmosphere were replaced by an equal weight of water, the water would cover the earth's entire surface to a
depth of 10 meters. The weight of the air pressing down upon itself produces atmospheric pressure.
Pressure is continuously changing, mainly because of changes in air density brought about by variations in
temperature and moisture content. At higher altitudes in the air column, the air pressure is less because
there is less air above the higher altitude. More specifically, atmospheric pressure is the weight of a column
of air that extends upward to the top of the atmosphere. (See figure 3-3.)
PRESSURE MEASUREMENT
3-17. Air pressure is measured with barometers and reported in millibars (mb). One type of barometer is
mercurial, which is very accurate but not portable. A mercurial barometer measures air pressure in inches
of mercury, which are then converted to millibars. Another type of barometer is the aneroid, which
measures air pressure in millibars and is portable. A third type of barometer is a digital device that
measures and displays pressure. Artillery MET sections use the aneroid and digital barometers.
CLOUDS
3-18. Most weather phenomena are associated either directly or indirectly with clouds. Therefore, observer
personnel must understand the significance of clouds. This enables them to make pertinent and timely
decisions on the effect of weather on operations.
CLOUD COMPOSITION
3-19. Clouds are composed of millions of water droplets and/or ice crystals suspended in the atmosphere.
Condensation
3-20. Condensation is the process whereby water vapor is changed into small droplets of water. For
condensation to occur there must be something present in the atmosphere upon which the water vapor can
condense. Virtually billions of minute particles, which result from ordinary dust, combustion products, and
sea salt crystals, exist in the atmosphere. These particles are condensation nuclei. Condensation of water
vapor upon these particles forms clouds and fog. Condensation may result from a decrease in temperature,
a decrease of pressure, or an increase of water vapor in the air. In the atmosphere, condensation normally
occurs when warm, moist air rises and cools by expansion. Frontal activity, terrain features, and unequal
heating of land and sea surfaces cause the air to be lifted.
Precipitation
3-21. Precipitation is visible moisture, either liquid or solid, that falls from a cloud to the surface of the
earth. It occurs when the cloud particles become so large that the pull of gravity overcomes the buoyant
force of the surrounding air in the cloud. The size of cloud droplets may be increased by collisions with
other droplets or by the freezing of super-cooled water droplets on ice crystals.
Virga
3-22. Clouds do not always produce precipitation since the initial water droplets are extremely small and
simply float in the atmosphere. Precipitation may fall from clouds without reaching the earth’s surface
because on many occasions it evaporates before reaching the surface. This phenomenon is called virga.
CLOUD CATEGORIES
3-23. Clouds are classified by their appearance and the physical processes that produce them. All clouds,
by their shape, fall into two general categories, cumuliform (cumulus) and stratiform (stratus) (Seefigure3-
4.)
Cumulus
3-24. Cumulus means heaped or accumulated. Cumulus clouds look that way because they are always
formed by rising air currents. Cumulus clouds may produce local showers or severe thunderstorms and
extremely strong vertical air currents.
Stratus
3-25. Stratus or sheets like, clouds are formed when a layer of air is cooled below its saturation point
without pronounced vertical motion. The vertical thickness of stratiform-type clouds may range from
several meters up to a few kilometers. Precipitation, if any, from stratiform clouds is generally continuous
with only gradual changes in intensity and covers a relatively large area.
CLOUD CLASSIFICATION
3-26. Clouds may be further classified as high, middle, low, and towering. (See figure 3-4.)
Low
3-27. When the bases of clouds are lower than 2,000 meters above the surface of the earth, the clouds
generally are designated as cumulus or stratus, unless they are producing precipitation. In that case, they
are referred to as cumulonimbus or nimbostratus. Nimbus means rain cloud. Another common low cloud,
with some of the characteristics of both cumulus and stratus clouds, is called stratocumulus.
Middle
3-28. Between 2,000 and 6,000 meters, clouds generally are identified with the prefix alto preceding the
cloud name. Altocumulus and altostratus clouds are in this category.
High
3-29. Above 6,000 meters, clouds are composed of ice crystals and generally have a delicate appearance.
These clouds are designated as cirrocumulus and cirrostratus. At still greater altitudes, a fibrous type of
cloud, which appears as curly wisps and is composed of ice crystals, is designated as cirrus.
Towering
3-30. Bases of towering clouds may be as low as the typical low clouds, but their tops may extend to, or
even above, the tropopause.
AIR CIRCULATION
3-31. Simple atmospheric circulation is the movement of air over the surface of the earth. Solar radiation is
the energy source that heats the atmosphere and sets it into motion. The equator receives the greatest
amount of solar heating, whereas the poles receive the least. This unequal heating creates temperature
differences between various locations on the earth. The temperature differences produce pressure changes
that cause air motion in our atmosphere.
General Circulation
3-32. General air circulation can be explained by the three-cell theory. Hot, moist air near the equator rises
to high altitudes and flows toward the poles. As the air rises and travels away from the equator, it cools and
dries, becoming denser. Some of the cold, dry air sinks back to the surface at about 30 degrees latitude.
Some of the descending air returns to the equator, replacing the rising, less dense air. Thus, the first cell of
circulation is complete. The remainder of the descending air at 30 degrees latitude travels toward the poles
along the earth's surface. At about 60 degrees latitude, this cool air meets the very cold air flowing along
the surface away from the poles. The cool air is forced upward until it rejoins the remaining upper air
moving from the equator to the poles. Thus, the second and third cells of circulation are formed. (See
figure 3-5.) Within this general pattern of circulation, several semi-permanent pressure regions exist. Low-
pressure regions exist at the equator and at 60 degrees latitude. High-pressure regions exist at 30 degrees
latitude and in the polar regions.
Secondary Circulation
3-34. When air circulates, several forces act to create disturbances and irregularities in the lower levels of
the troposphere. The result is secondary circulation, which consists of moving pressure systems that are
smaller than the general circulation patterns. These forces are as follows:
z Pressure gradient force.
z Coriolis force.
z Centrifugal force.
z Frictional force.
Coriolis Force
3-36. If the earth did not rotate, the air would always move directly toward lower pressure. However, the
rotation of the earth causes a deflective force, Coriolis force, which tends to counteract both the vertical
and horizontal pressure gradient forces. Coriolis force causes moving air to deflect to the right in the
Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere.
Centrifugal Force
3-37. Lines of constant pressure (isobars) usually are curved around pressure systems. This curvature
results in a centrifugal force upon the wind. The effect of the centrifugal force depends on the speed and
the existing path of the air. In high latitudes, the Coriolis force has a greater effect than does the centrifugal
force. However, near the equator, centrifugal force has a greater effect.
Friction
3-38. Friction tends to slow air movement. Frictional effects on the air are greatest near the ground, but
they also are carried aloft by turbulence. Surface friction has a slowing effect on the wind up to about
2,000 feet. Above 2,000 feet, altitude friction effects are negligible.
AIR MASSES
3-39. The physical properties of air masses are largely determined by the type of surface over which they
form. A source region for an air mass is an extensive portion of the earth’s surface on which temperature
and moisture properties are fairly uniform. The time required for a mass of air to acquire the properties of
an underlying surface varies greatly with the surface and, in some cases, may take a period of weeks.
Fronts
3-42. When two or more different air masses come together, the boundary on the surface between the air
masses is called a front. Fronts are classified by the relative motion of the warm and cold air masses. The
frontal system may be from 10 to 500 kilometers wide, the width varying with the type of front. The height
of the front may vary considerably because the frontal surface is not vertical. This is due to the differing
densities of the two air masses. The colder air, which is denser (and thus heavier), always wedges under the
warmer air mass, causing the warmer air to be lifted. All true fronts actually separate distinct air masses of
different densities. A frontal position is characterized by a distinct change in wind direction. The weather
associated with fronts is called frontal weather and is more complex and variable than air mass weather.
The type and intensity of frontal weather largely depend on such factors as the slope of the frontal surface,
the amount of moisture, the stability of the air masses, and the speed of frontal movement. Because of the
variability of these factors, frontal weather may range from a minor wind shift with no clouds to
thunderstorms, hail, and severe turbulence. The passage of a front may cause rather abrupt changes in the
weather.
Cold Front
3-43. When cold air displaces warm air at the earth's surface, it is called a cold front (figure 3-6). A slow-
moving cold front has a rather gentle slope. However, as the front accelerates, the slope becomes steeper
(more vertical) near the surface because of the friction of the terrain. Cold fronts normally move faster and
have steeper slopes than warm fronts. The advancing wedge of cold air lifts the lighter warm air mass and
produces a relatively narrow band of clouds.
3-44. The type of clouds formed by the cold front depends on the properties of the air masses involved and
the speed of the frontal system. Fast-moving cold fronts, when lifting moist, unstable air, generate
cumuliform clouds that are slightly ahead of the front. A line of thunderstorms that frequently develops
parallel to and some distance ahead of rapidly moving cold fronts may have cloud systems that extend to
the rear of the surface position of the front. The clouds are mainly stratiform when the warm air is moist
and stable. When the warm air is quite dry, little or no cloudiness occurs with the passage of a cold front.
At the surface, the passage of a cold front is characterized by—
z An abrupt decrease in temperature.
z A marked shift of surface wind, usually greater than 90 degrees.
Warm Front
3-45. When warm air replaces cold air at the surface, it is called a warm front (figure 3-7). The speed of
the advancing warm air is greater than that of the retreating cold air. Therefore, the warm air flows upward
over the sloping wedge of dense, cold air. The force of the rising warm air slowly pushes the cold air back.
The effect of the earth's surface causes the slope of the warm front to be very flat. The dimensions of a
warm front wedge range from 100 to 300 kilometers horizontal distance with an altitude from 0 to 1
kilometer. With the same winds, the speed of a warm front is about half that of a cold front. The clouds
associated with a warm front are mainly stratiform and extend well ahead of the surface position of the
front. The weather depends largely on the stability and moisture content of the overrunning air. Steady
precipitation with low ceiling and limited visibility is normal in advance of warm fronts. At the surface, the
passage of a warm front is characterized by—
z A marked increase in temperature.
z A slight shift of surface wind, usually less than 90 degrees.
z An increase in moisture content of the air.
z A decrease in pressure as the front approaches, followed by a leveling off or slowly rising
pressure after the front passes.
Occluded Front
3-46. An occluded front is formed when a cold front overtakes a warm front and forces aloft the warm air
that originally occupied the space between the two fronts. There are two types of occlusions: the warm
front occlusion (figure 3-8) and the cold front occlusion (figure 3-9). The type that will occur depends on
whether the cold air of the advancing cold front is colder or warmer than the retreating wedge of cold air in
advance of the warm front. However, the essential point in both warm and cold front occlusions is that two
cold air masses meet and force the warm air aloft. This causes extensive cloudiness. The weather
associated with an occlusion depends on the properties of the three air masses involved.
Stationary Front
3-47. On occasion, both warm and cold air masses contain almost equal amounts of energy and neither can
move appreciably. During the period when little or no frontal movement takes place, the system is known
as a stationary front. The weather associated with a stationary front is quite similar to that with a warm
front.
firing tables is possible even with stable atmospheric conditions. For example, tests in Southwest Asia have
shown that firing artillery at maximum ranges in extreme heat and low air density resulted in MET
corrections up to 4,700 meters.
3-49. MET data is one of the prerequisites for accurate predicted fire. With today's emphasis on first round
fire for effect and trends toward longer distances, accurate MET corrections for artillery fires are crucial.
The use of invalid or no MET corrections could cause artillery projectiles to impact on friendly troops.
Accurate MET data must be obtained and appropriate corrections applied to all fires to—
z Conserve ammunition.
z Decrease time in adjustment.
z Obtain a greater surprise effect.
z Reduce the potential for fratricide.
3-50. Despite automation, all MET section crew members should have a common understanding of certain
atmospheric and ballistic terms and the effects of MET conditions on artillery fires. Supervisors also must
be able to recognize adverse weather changes that could abruptly negate the accuracy of MET messages.
ATMOSPHERIC TERMS
3-51. In addition to the weather-related terms identified earlier in this chapter, there are other atmospheric
terms used consistently by the FA MET crew member. They are called ballistic terms and are discussed in
the following paragraphs.
Standard Atmosphere
3-52. When computing trajectories, ordnance ballisticians use the International Civil Aviation
Organization (ICAO) standard atmosphere. This standard atmosphere is the basis for all data of the ballistic
solution as well as a point of departure for ballistic MET corrections. The ICAO atmosphere at sea level is
described as follows:
z Dry air.
z No wind.
z Surface temperature of 15 Celsius degrees with a decrease, or lapse rate, of -6.5 Celsius degrees
per 1,000 meters up to a height of 11,000 meters and a constant temperature of -56.5 Celsius
degrees between 11,000 and 25,000 meters.
z Surface pressure of 1,013.25 millibars, decreasing with height.
z Surface density of 1,225 grams per cubic meter (gm/m3), decreasing with height.
Atmospheric Zones
3-53. For convenience in computing, reporting, and applying corrections, the standard atmosphere is
further identified by atmospheric zones. The atmospheric zones for various MET messages and the
thickness and heights of the zones are in table 3-1.
****** *****
30,000 15
Ballistic Wind
3-54. Ballistic wind is a wind of constant speed and direction that has the same effect on a projectile
during its flight as all the varying winds serially encountered by the projectile.
Ballistic Density
3-55. Ballistic density is a constant density, expressed as a percentage of standard density that has the same
effect on a projectile's trajectory as the varying densities serially encountered by the projectile.
Ballistic Temperature
3-56. Ballistic temperature is a constant vertical temperature, expressed as a percentage of standard
temperature that has the same effect on a projectile in flight as the varying temperatures serially
encountered by the projectile.
3-58. The following text provides detailed information and a graphical explanation of how certain aspects
of weather affects the artillery.
Wind
3-59. The effects of wind on a projectile are easy to understand. A tail wind causes an increase in range,
and a head wind causes a decrease in range. A crosswind blows the projectile to the right or left, which
causes a deflection error. FDC personnel convert ballistic wind measurements into range and deflection
and apply corrections to the deflection and elevation of the artillery piece. Figures 3-10 and 3-11 show the
effects of a 20-knot wind on a 155-millimeter howitzer firing at a range of 11,000 meters, charge 7 white
bag (WB).
Temperature
3-60. Variations in air temperature cause two separate effects on a projectile. One effect is caused by the
inverse variation of density with temperature (equation of state). This effect is compensated for when
density effects are considered. The second effect is regarded as the true temperature effect. It is the result
of the relationship between the speed of the projectile and the speed of the air compression waves that form
in front of or behind the projectile. These air compression waves move with the speed of sound, which is
directly proportional to the air temperature. The relationship between the variation in air temperature and
the drag on the projectile is difficult to determine. This is particularly true for supersonic projectiles since
they break through the air compression waves after they are formed. As firing tables indicate, an increase
in air temperature may increase, decrease, or have no effect on achieved range, depending on the initial
elevation and muzzle velocity of the weapon. Figure 3-12 shows the effect of a 5-percent deviation from
standard temperature.
Density
3-61. Density of the air through which a projectile passes creates friction that affects the forward
movement of the projectile. This affects the distance the projectile travels. The density effect is inversely
proportional to the projectile ranges; that is, an increase in density causes a decrease in range. Figure 3-13
shows the effect of a 5-percent deviation from the standard air density. Air density decreases rapidly with
height. Therefore, the altitude of the firing battery and the ordinate of the trajectory have a direct effect on
the magnitude of the density correction. Given equal deviations from standard of each MET effect on the
flight of a projectile, air density has the greatest range effect.
MESOSCALE MODELING
3-62. Throughout history, man has attempted to predict weather and its effects. Advances in technology
have allowed meteorologists to measure weather phenomenon on a global scale. This large scale data is of
little use in predicting weather until it is evaluated against the factors affecting weather (terrain,
temperature, bodies of water, vegetation, and others) and applied to a specific area. Scientists have
developed computer modeling programs to evaluate the massive amounts of data, giving meteorologist a
tool to accurately predict weather.
3-63. Artillery MET sections are concerned with creating a vertical profile of the atmosphere, which is
used by artillery units to develop more accurate firing solutions. Traditionally, this vertical profile of the
atmosphere was created from surface observations and data collected from balloon-borne sondes. While
this method provides accurate data at the MET section’s location, the further away the firing unit is located
from the MET section the less effective the data for computing firing solutions.
3-64. The Mesoscale model has been developed in order to provide sufficient data to create accurate
vertical profiles. The vertical profiles can be generated anywhere within a 60-kilometer radius of the MET
section location. The MMS–P equipped MET section, using the Mesoscale model, can generate MET data
on demand.
3-65. The capability of the model to generate a vertical profile within a 60-kilometer radius of the MET
section allows the system to generate target area MET for targets within the radius. The system generates a
vertical profile over the target that is used to increase the accuracy of smart munitions.
3-67. While MET personnel cannot see the numerical values processed by the model, they can observe the
system building each domain on the model status screen. The model status screen will indicate when each
domain has completed processing. Additionally, the model status screen will provide information when
output is available from each model run.
Domains
3-68. Initialization of the Mesoscale model begins with establishing domains. A domain is a grid system
defining the geographic area for which MET data will be collected and processed.
3-69. The MMS–P equipped MET section establishes three domains when initializing the system by
entering each domain’s center point. The outer and largest domain measures 3,600 x 3,600 kilometers. It is
divided into a grid of 36-kilometer squares and is referred to as the “36-kilometer domain.” Nested within
the 36-kilometer domain, and using the same center point, lies a 1,500 x 1,500-kilometer area divided into
a grid of 12-kilometer squares and referred to as the “12-kilometer domain.” Nested within the 12-
kilometer domain, and using a center point that does not have to be the same as the other grids, lies a 500 x
500-kilometer area divided into a grid of 4-kilometer squares known as the “4-kilometer domain.” Figure
3-14 shows the nested domains.
3-70. The MM5 model first builds the 36-kilometer domain. The model applies terrain data to the grid
acquired from the National Imagery and Mapping Agency (NIMA) Digital Terrain Elevation Data (DTED)
database contained on the system computers. Terrain data includes elevation, land use (vegetation), and
land-water mask information.
3-71. The MM5 model next applies worldwide forecast model data generated by the Naval Operational
Global Atmospheric Prediction System (NOGAPS). NOGAPS data is not direct MET observation data, but
resultant forecast data created after analysis. NOGAPS data is broadcast via satellite twice daily by the Air
Force Weather Agency (AFWA). Each transmission provides the MMS–P equipped section with 72 hours
of forecast data. The MM5 model requires a minimum of 24 hours of valid NOGAPS data to be able to
initialize.
3-72. In addition to the NOGAPS data, the model applies surface observations and local observations
(upper air data generated by balloon-borne sondes) acquired by the MET section. Additional local
observations acquired by other MET sections in the area of operations can also be used by the model to
increase the accuracy of the output.
3-73. The MM5 model data from the computation of the 36-kilometer domain is used to compute the 12-
kilometer domain. The data generated from the computation of the 12-kilometer domain is used to compute
the 4-kilometer domain. This results in a refined vertical profile of the atmosphere in each domain up to
30,000 meters. The MM5 model reinitializes every 30 minutes using the newest inputs. This allows the
MM5 model to generate freshest possible data. Figure 3-15 shows the atmospheric profile.
3-74. The MET domain establishes for the mesoscale model and the post processor its “area of
operations.” The default location for the MET domain is the profiler location in the center of the 4-
kilometer resolution of 500 x 500-kilometer grid. This coverage should be sufficient for most operations.
The MET domain center however can be different than the profiler location. This is useful if the line of
march/operational area is known for the mission. For example, given a line of march moving in a due north
direction, a profiler could be located at the southern edge (60 kilometers from the MET domain end) of the
MET domain (figure 3-16). This gives the profiler greater coverage as it moves north with friendly forces.
This is important as the model reduces its error over time if left running without a change in domain. If
either the MET domain changes or the system is shutdown the model will need to rerun.
Nowcasts
3-76. The UPPS processes the MM5 model output, surface observations data, and upper air data to reduce
model bias to produce a nowcast, which can be reformatted into the type of MET message requested by the
user. The UPPS repeatedly recycles, creating nowcasts using the newest available data.
3-77. A request for MET from a user contains the gun location and the target location. The UPPS
identifies the gun location and the target location within the model domain. Using the current nowcast, the
UPPS generates the requested MET data based on the midpoint between the gun location and the target
location. The resulting data is input into the appropriate message format and sent to the Common Message
Processor for verification and transmission to the requesting user. Figure 3-17 shows the reference point
where MET data was generated when requested.
4-6. In the NAVAID mode the met section can operate from a fixed location, while on the move, or the
section can conduct a remote launch.
4-7. Fixed location operations allow the met section to provide continuous met coverage for a particular
area of interest.
4-8. Mobile operations allow a met section to start a NAVAID sounding before moving to another site.
The system will continue to process data while the section is moving and messages can be transmitted once
the section has stopped in the new location. Mobile operations allow an uninterrupted sounding schedule.
The operations officer should consider this capability when planning met section employment.
4-9. Remote launch allows the section to release balloon-borne radiosondes from a position up to 20
kilometers from the primary section location. Remote launch allows data to be collected close to the area of
interest without displacing the entire section. When coordinated properly, this capability can greatly
increase the AMV of one section. Limiting factors of remote launch are detailed in the paragraphs below.
4-10. During offensive operations, supported units may move quickly forward out of AMV coverage.
Remote launch helps to provide continuous availability of valid MET data to rapidly moving artillery units.
An example of a routine use of the NAVAID remote launch capability is to deploy a balloon launch team
forward with artillery advance parties. The launch team receives commands from the primary section
location by radio. On arrival at the remote launch site, the team takes surface measurements and launches
the balloon on command of the section headquarters. The launch team either returns immediately to the
primary section location, travel to a second remote launch site, or remain at its present location. Figure 4-2
shows a graphic example of remote launch capability.
4-11. Each remote launch mission is different and requires extensive planning before execution. The
operations officer and the MET station leader plan remote launches and incorporate them into the MET
section positioning scheme.
RDF OPERATIONS
4-12. The RDF operating mode is designed to be used whenever NAVAID systems are unavailable. It only
operates from a fixed location. A ground device tracks the path of a radiosonde as it rises in the
atmosphere. Angular and meteorological data are passed on to the equipment shelter for processing and
dissemination.
GPS OPERATIONS
4-13. The GPS operating mode uses satellites to track the path of the radiosonde as it rises in the
atmosphere. Angular and meteorological data are passed to the equipment shelter for processing and
dissemination. See appendix E for an explanation of GPS satellite coverage.
SOUNDING DATA
4-17. MMS–P equipped sections uses two modes for determining upper air data, LORAN-Commercial
(LORAN-C) and GPS.
LORAN-C MODE
4-18. A NAVAID signal receiver inside a radiosonde in flight receives transmissions from groups of fixed
stations. The radiosonde then transmits the NAVAID information to the ground equipment. The
differences in the time of arrival of the signal and the phases of the signals are computed by using
triangulation to determine the geographical position of the radiosonde.
4-19. The MMS–P is currently not capable of mobile operations. LORAN-C can only be performed from a
fixed location.
GPS MODE
4-20. The GPS operating mode uses satellites to track the path of the radiosonde as it rises in the
atmosphere. Angular and meteorological data are passed to the equipment shelter for processing and
dissemination. See appendix E for an explanation of GPS satellite coverage.
4-21. The MMS–P is currently not capable of mobile operations. GPS can only be performed from a fixed
location.
NOGAPS DATA
4-22. The MMS–P requires large-scale weather data to initialize the MM5 model. This data is generated
by the Naval Operational Global Atmospheric Prediction System (NOGAPS). This data is transferred to
the Air Force Weather Agency (AFWA) where it is broadcast via satellite. Each transmission of NOGAPS
data contains 72 hours of valid data.
4-23. The MMS–P equipped section downloads NOGAPS transmissions using the Tactical-Very Small
Aperture Terminal (T-VSAT). The NOGAPS data is processed by the system and made available to the
MM5 model. A secondary method for input of NOGAPS data is using a CD-ROM. The CD-ROM can be
created by another MMS–P with valid data or the data can be downloaded from the internet and written to
a disk. The CD-ROM should be destroyed once the NOGAPS data is downloaded to the profiler.
AREA OBSERVATIONS
4-24. Area observations are meteorological observations that come in via messages over the SINCGARS
network from other MMS and MMS–P systems in the current theater of operations. While not required for
the MMS–P to be operational, the area observation data is used to increase the accuracy of the model
output.
REGIONAL OBSERVATIONS
4-25. Regional Observations are transmitted hourly by Air Force Weather Teams. This information is
downloaded via satellite using the T-VSAT and ingested by the MM5 Mesoscale model.
order to generate MET messages with valid data. The sounding data is processed by the Unified Post
Processing System (UPPS).
4-27. From the time the sonde is launched, it takes approximately 35 to 65 minutes for sounding data to be
processed to the point where a MET message can be populated with data. Typically, the first run of the
UPPS cycle that ingests sounding data contains data for MET zones zero through six. As the sounding
progresses in altitude and feeds data to the system, subsequent MET zones will be populated. The operator
can generate a MET message following each cycle of the UPPS until the number of levels required for the
message is achieved. See figure 4-3 for an example timeline showing how degraded mode operates when
initializing the system without valid NOGAPS data.
NOTE: Times may vary depending on startup, initialization and sonde launch times. The
timeline shows a scenario where it takes 35 minutes for sonde data to be made available and to
be ingested by the UPPS.
4-28. The MMS–P system returns to a fully operational mode upon receipt of valid NOGAPS data
downloaded via T-VSAT antenna or input using a CD-ROM. The system computers have to be rebooted in
order to return to a fully operational mode.
4-29. The primary means to determine meteorological data is using electronic meteorological equipment.
When electronic meteorological equipment fails or is not available, MET data may be determined from
observation of pilot balloons along with approved MET software. MET data determined from PIBAL
observation is not as accurate as MET data determined from electronic meteorological equipment. PIBAL
is only accurate in the form of wind speed and wind direction. Temperature and pressure are derived from
a set lapse rate based off the surface readings the operator provides to the Visual Meteorology Computer
Program.
4-30. PIBALs are issued in two sizes, 30-gram and 100-gram (representing the weights of the deflated
balloons). Under various sky conditions, some colors are more easily detected by the eye than others. For
this reason, PIBALs are issued in several colors, the most common being white, red, and black. The rule to
remember when deciding which color balloon to use is “darker the sky the darker the balloon.”
4-31. The rate of rise of the 30-gram balloon is approximately 180 meters per minute, after a steady rate of
rise is attained. The rate of rise of a 100-gram balloon is approximately 300 meters per minute after a
steady rate of rise is attained.
4-32. Approximate cloud heights may be determined by timing the ascent of PIBAL, multiplying the time
by the rate of rise to determine the height of the balloon. When timing the ascent of the PIBAL to
determine cloud height, the balloon is timed until it is obscured by the lowest level of clouds. Computing
cloud height in this manner provides an approximate cloud height.
INFLATING PIBALS
4-33. When inflating PIBALs, the nozzle ML-373/GM is connected to the hose ML-81. The ML-81 is
connected to the gas cylinder. The ML-373/GM provides a valve for controlling the flow of gas, and to act
as a calibrated weight to determine the correct amount of gas needed for inflation. The ML-373/GM may
be used when inflating with helium or hydrogen. Therefore, when using the ML 373/GM with helium, you
must use locally produced work sheet with properly computed times for tops of zones.
4-34. The ML-373/GM nozzle has two connections at opposite ends: a large connection for PIBALs with a
large neck and a small connection for PIBALs with a small neck. Most commercially purchased balloons
must be connected to the smaller connection on the ML-373/GM nozzle. Projecting from the middle of the
nozzle is the fitting for the hose ML-81. Opposite the hose fitting is a wing nut, which controls the valve.
The nozzle alone weighs 132 grams, which is the correct free lift weight for a 30-gram PIBAL during a
daytime flight. Adding the 443-gram weight to the nozzle brings the complete nozzle weight to 575 grams,
the correct free lift for a 100-gram PIBAL during a daytime flight.
4-35. When a nighttime flight is flown, additional weights are added to the nozzle to compensate for the
greater air resistance caused by increased size of the balloon. The additional weights required are 70 grams
for the 30 gram PIBAL and 50 grams for the 100-gram PIBAL. Also, remember when using nonstandard
night lighting devices during nighttime flights, the devices should be connected to the nozzle during
inflation to account for the additional weight.
4-36. Once the proper weights are attached to the nozzle, free lift must be obtained. Free lift is the net
upward force required for the balloon to ascend at a given rate. Simply stated, the balloon must be inflated
until it is suspended in midair with the nozzle and additional weights (if any were needed) still attached to
the balloon without the hose ML-81. Once free lift is achieved, you may now disconnect the balloon from
the nozzle and tie the balloon off. The balloon is now properly inflated and ready for release.
4-41. After the ‘WARNING’ command is given, the timer/recorder should voice the command ‘Read’ at
the moment the predetermined times are reached. The timer/recorder may record the azimuth and elevation
angles from one of the digital displays on the theodolite, or the theodolite operator may read the angles
from the mechanical angles located in the eyepiece of the theodolite.
4-42. The azimuth and elevation angles are recorded on the form provided to“tenth of a degree” accuracy.
The azimuth and elevation angles from the form will be entered in data fields of a visual meteorology
computer program. The computer program will process the information and produce a formatted
meteorology computer message (METCM) that may be delivered by courier, voice radio or entered into a
digital communication device for digital transmission. For more information on PIBAL operations, refer to
Operations Manual 79-95M01.
4-43. All forms and MET messages are to be maintained in the manner of electronic MET messages and
forms.
This chapter discusses the components, site considerations, and personnel of the
AN/TMQ-41 equipped section.
5-2. The shelter equipment group contains the equipment needed to receive and process MET data
transmitted by a radiosonde. The shelter equipment group consists of the systems described below.
RECEIVING SYSTEM
5-4. This system amplifies and converts signals received by the Global Positioning System (GPS),
NAVAID and RDF antennas and passes them to the Marwin processor. The Marwin processor contains a
GPS card that processes GPS signals enabling the Marwin to determine wind speed and direction.
COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM
5-5. The Marwin receives and processes MET data and position information. It formats the data into
MET messages for transmission to using units.
PAGE PRINTER
5-6. The printer provides a hard copy record of all MET messages.
ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT
Radiosonde
5-10. The radiosonde is a small electronic instrument carried aloft by a free-flight balloon. The aloft
radiosonde senses and transmits pressure, temperature, and relative humidity to the MET section. The
AN/TMQ-41 uses different types of radiosondes, depending on the operating mode selected for the
planned sounding.
Power Equipment
5-11. The AN/TMQ-41 operates either from vehicle power or an external power source. When performing
mobile operations, power is supplied by the vehicle on which it is mounted. When the air conditioners are
on or when operating the RDF, an external source of power is required. A trailer-mounted power plant is
towed by one of the sections vehicles to provide power.
COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT
5-12. The met section usually disseminates met data via on-board communications equipment. There are
multiple options available to the met section to disseminate met data.
5-13. Care must be taken to use the appropriate communications equipment when disseminating met data.
The communications equipment will be identified during the section planning process
Radios
5-14. The MET section is authorized single-channel ground and air-borne radio system (SINCGARS).
They are used for communications with MET users and command and control.
VEHICULAR EQUIPMENT
5-17. Each section is authorized three high-mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles (HMMWVs) and three
trailers. The three vehicles are the heavy-variant HMMWV, and each is equipped with a 200-amp kit.
Vehicle one transports the operations shelter and tows the power generator. Vehicle two transports
supplemental equipment and tows the trailer containing the balloon inflation equipment and expendable
supplies. Vehicle three transports section equipment. Section IV provides example load plans.
SITE SELECTION
5-18. MET sections are positioned by the S-3 and MET station leader to provide the best possible area of
coverage and most valid MET data. Section deployment depends largely on the location of firing units,
targets, terrain, and weather. When selecting a site, the MET section leader must weigh the following
considerations:
z Safety.
z Tactical situation.
z Weather forecast and prevailing winds.
z Availability of NAVAID signals.
z Security.
z Communications modes and nets.
z Operating frequencies.
z Electronic warfare activities.
z Areas of coverage.
z Terrain.
z Availability of adequate supply of water.
z Logistical support.
z Unit attachment.
SURVEY REQUIREMENTS
5-19. The met station leader conducts a ground reconnaissance to determine the exact positions for major
items of equipment. Once this is done, the station leader selects two reference points to facilitate orienting
the RDF to true north. Reference points should be fixed, easily identified objects, such as a tall pole or the
fork of a large tree.
SURVEY AVAILABLE
5-20. The MET station leader emplaces the system to fifth-order accuracy or with the GPS. The survey
section will provide the MET section with the latitude, longitude, and height of the MET section.
RDF EMPLACEMENT
NOTE: If the soundings are performed in the NAVAID or GPS modes, the RDF is not
emplaced.
5-22. The RDF cannot be emplaced more than 100 feet (30 meters) from the equipment shelter owing to
cable length. The RDF should be placed on reasonably level terrain. It should not be screened by large
obstacles that may interfere with signal reception. The position selected for the RDF should have a clear
area downwind to observe balloon release. There must be no tall objects to obstruct line of sight from the
RDF to a radiosonde in flight.
CAMOUFLAGE
5-27. The modules of radar-scattering camouflage in table 5-1 are required for camouflaging the system.
Camouflage procedures are outlined in TM 5-1080-200-13&P.
Equipment Modules
1 1/4-ton truck with shelter 2
1 1/4-ton truck (transports MHG if 3
issued)*
1 1/4-ton truck 2
1 1/4-ton trailer (3 each) 3
NAVAID Antenna Set 1
RDF 1
Tent 2
*Ensure the generator chimney is not covered with
camouflage when generator is operating.
5-28. Commanders move MET sections as needed to maintain MET support. Therefore, crew members
must be trained and able to displace, move, and occupy a new site rapidly during critical periods of the
battle. The MET station leader informs the operations officer when the validity of the last message from the
current position will expire and how much time is required to march-order the section. He recommends the
best time to make the displacement and a course of action to relay MET data from adjacent sections while
the section is displacing. The MET station leader’s briefing of section personnel before each displacement
should include, as applicable, the following:
z Broadcast time of the last met message from the current position.
z Broadcast time of the first met message from the next position.
z Procedures for monitoring, copying, and transmitting met data from adjacent met sections on
both the left and right flanks.
z Section march-order sequence and when the camouflage systems will be dropped, packed, and
loaded.
z Departure time and whether the section has road clearance to move independently.
z Where the MET vehicles will be positioned in the battery column.
z Route of march and any significant landmarks.
z Designation of the section representative on the reconnaissance party.
5-29. The MOS and Rank for personnel in a MMS Section is directly related to the level of responsibility
and knowledge required. The more senior the Rank, the more responsibility and knowledge the individual
is expected to possess.
5-30. All personnel within the MMS section will possess the 13W MOS. However, two positions will
have an Additional Skill Identifier (ASI) that indicates they have successfully completed the Unit level
maintenance course for Meteorology Equipment.
U.S. ARMY
Title MOS Rank Quantity
MET station leader 13W40 SFC 1
FA MET section sergeant 13W30 SSG 1
FA MET equipment repairer 13W20H1 SGT 1
FA MET equipment repairer 13W10H1 SPC 1
FA MET crew member 13W10 SPC 1
Table 5-2. AN/TMQ-41 Section Personnel (U.S. Army) and AN/TMQ-41 Section Personnel (U.S.
Marine Corps)
5-29. The MOS and Rank for personnel in a MMS Section is directly related to the level of responsibility
and knowledge required. The more senior the Rank, the more responsibility and knowledge the individual
is expected to possess.
5-30. All personnel within the MMS section will possess the 13W MOS. However, two positions will
have an Additional Skill Identifier (ASI) that indicates they have successfully completed the Unit level
maintenance course for Meteorology Equipment.
NOTE: Duties are the same for both Army and Marine Corps personnel.
z Maintain quality control of MET data. Submit necessary reports, and maintain a flight log
showing the following:
Dates.
Location.
Flight number.
Expendables consumed.
Other pertinent information.
z Retain the flight log and copies of messages in accordance with AR 25-400-2.
z Advise the operations officer on all factors affecting mission capabilities, such as personnel,
maintenance, and logistics.
z Review, consolidate, and prepare technical, personnel, and administrative reports covering MET
section and station activities.
z Organize and supervise the MET section training program.
z Supervise operator maintenance of MET, communications, and vehicular equipment.
z Supervise preparation and distribution of all MET messages.
z Ensure adherence to safety procedures during inflation.
z Manage met section logistics for repair parts and expendable items.
z Assign personnel to MET teams.
z Instruct and lead crew members in MET procedures.
5-37. The loading plan for the MMS Section is extremely important. Loading plans are the key to
ensuring everyone knows where each component or piece of equipment is located.
5-38. A good load plan will cut down on the time required to find items as well as store items for transport
(for examples see figures 5-3, 5-4, and 5-5.
This chapter discusses the components, site considerations, and personnel of the
AN/TMQ-52 equipped section.
6-2. The shelter equipment group contains the equipment needed to receive and process MET data
transmitted by a radiosonde, obtained by a surface sensor, and received via satellite. The shelter equipment
group consists of the systems described below.
RECEIVING SYSTEM
6-6. In both NAVAID and GPS modes, temperature, pressure, and humidity (PTU) data is received by
either the omni or directional antenna, amplified by the system and passed to the Marwin processor.
COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM
6-7. The Unified Post Processing System (UPPS) generates the MET data required to populate the
requested MET message. The data is formatted and transferred to the common message processor (CMP)
located on the operator interface computer (OIC). The data is available for review in the CMP and is
transmitted via SINCGARS radio to the requesting unit.
T-VSAT ANTENNA
6-10. The T-VSAT antenna is the primary communications method for receiving a large volume of
weather data from the Air Force Weather Agency (AFWA). AFWA transmits, via satellite, NOGAPS data
every 12 hours and regional observations each hour. The data is downloaded by the MMS–P using the T-
VSAT antenna.
TACMET (AN/TMQ-55)
6-11. The TACMET is a tripod-mounted system that measures barometric pressure, temperature, humidity,
and wind speed and direction at the earth’s surface. The TACMET is connected to the shelter signal entry
panel and surface meteorological data is routed to the OIC. The OIC makes this data available to the
modeling software and the Marwin III in support of radiosonde launches.
ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT
6-12. The radiosonde is a small electronic instrument carried aloft by a free-flight balloon. The radiosonde
senses and transmits pressure, temperature, and relative humidity to the MET section. Wind direction and
speed are determined through relative measurements of the position of the radiosonde while in flight. The
AN/TMQ-52 uses different types of radiosondes (NAVAID or GPS), depending on the operating mode
selected for the planned sounding.
COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT
6-13. The communications equipment of previous MET system was configured to transmit MET data
based on a planned schedule (push method). The MMS–P communications equipment is configured to
allow units to request MET data on demand (pull method). This is accomplished by establishing
communications with the Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System (AFATDS) device located at the
controlling headquarters. The AFATDS device relays requests for MET data to the MMS–P and the
resulting MET message to the requesting unit. (Only MMS–P systems using 220C protocol can auto-
process MET requests).
Radios
6-14. The MET section is authorized SINCGARS. They are used for communications with MET users and
command and control.
VEHICULAR EQUIPMENT
6-17. Each section is authorized three HMMWV and three trailers. The three vehicles are the heavy-
variant HMMWV, and each is equipped with a 200-amp kit. Vehicle one transports the operations shelter.
Vehicle two transports helium bottles and tows the trailer containing the balloon inflation equipment and
expendable supplies. Vehicle three and trailers transport supplementary equipment. Section IV provides
example load plans.
SITE SELECTION
6-18. MET sections are positioned by the operations officer and MET station leader to provide the best
possible area of coverage. The modeling capability and the large size (60-kilometer radius) of the MMS–P
coverage area gives planners increased flexibility when positioning the system. When selecting a site, the
MET section leader must weigh the following considerations:
z Safety.
z Tactical situation.
z Line of sight to satellite (NOGAPS).
z Availability of LORAN and GPS signals.
z Security.
z Communications modes and nets.
z Operating frequencies.
z Electronic warfare activities.
z Areas of coverage.
z Terrain.
z Logistical support.
z Unit attachment.
SURVEY AVAILABLE
6-19. The MET station leader conducts a ground reconnaissance to determine the exact positions for major
items of equipment. The MET station leader emplaces the system to fifth-order accuracy or with the GPS.
The survey section will provide the MET section with the latitude, longitude, and height of the MET
section. The MET station leader can determine station location using the PLGR II. When using the PLGR
II, the MET station leader needs to verify the station altitude.
CAMOUFLAGE
6-24. The modules of radar-scattering camouflage in table 6-1 are required for camouflaging the system.
Camouflage procedures are outlined in TM 5-1080-200-13&P.
Table 6-1. Radar Scattering Camouflage Modules
Equipment Modules
1 1/4-ton truck (shelter) with trailer 3
1 1/4–ton truck with trailer 3
1 1/4–ton truck with trailer 3
DISPLACEMENT PROCEDURES
6-25. Commanders move MET sections as needed to maintain MET support. Therefore, crew members
must be trained and able to displace, move, and occupy a new site rapidly during critical periods of the
battle. The MET station leader informs the operations officer when the validity of the last message from the
current position will expire and how much time is required to march-order the section. He recommends the
best time to make the displacement and a course of action to relay MET data from adjacent sections while
the section is displacing. The MET station leader’s briefing of section personnel before each displacement
should include, as applicable, the following:
z Broadcast time of the last MET message from the current position.
z Broadcast time of the first MET message from the next position.
z Download time for current NOGAPS data. (NOGAPS data is transmitted every 12 hours and
provides the section with 72 hours of valid data. If the section is displacing during the NOGAPS
download period, coordination is made with adjacent MMS–P to acquire NOGAPS download.)
z Procedures for monitoring, copying, and transmitting MET data from adjacent MET sections on
both the left and right flanks.
z Section march-order sequence and when the camouflage systems will be dropped, packed, and
loaded.
z Departure time and whether the section has road clearance to move independently.
z Where the MET vehicles will be positioned in the battery column.
z Route of march and any significant landmarks.
z Designation of the section representative on the reconnaissance party.
This chapter describes the procedures for inflating and launching balloons.
SECTION I OVERVIEW
WARNING
7-1. While the MET equipment is being emplaced, powered, and initialized, the MET station leader
dispatches two crew members to the balloon inflation area to prepare a balloon for the sounding. Since
balloon inflation is the most time-consuming of all the section tasks, the section should begin this task as
soon as possible after it arrives at the site (MMS equipped sections). The MET section inflates sounding
balloons by using the inflation and launching device or an inflation shelter. The balloons are inflated by
compressed gas.
SAFETY PROCEDURES
7-2. In addition to the normal safety measures prescribed for all Soldiers, MET personnel must be
cautious when using compressed gas.
HYDROGEN GAS
7-3. Hydrogen gas is highly flammable. Since helium is an inert gas, it should be used, when available, to
inflate balloons. If hydrogen must be used, the safety precautions below must be carefully followed. MET
crew members should—
z Display conspicuous warning signs where hydrogen is generated, used, or stored. For example,
DANGER-HYDROGEN - No Smoking Within 50 Feet (15 meters).
z Never light a match, smoke, or create sparks near a site where hydrogen is used. They should
remove all possible sources of flame and sparks.
z Wear rubber-soled shoes during inflation. They should not wear shoes with exposed nails,
which might strike against metal, stones, or concrete floors and produce a spark. Materials such
as wool and nylon should not be worn when inflating with hydrogen gas.
z Never drop or strike metal tools against anything that might cause a spark.
z Remove all metal objects, such as watches and key chains, prior to inflating the balloon.
z Never mix hydrogen with air. They should expel all air from the balloon before inflating it with
hydrogen.
z Never expose the hydrogen cylinders to direct sunlight. Always store hydrogen bottles in the
shade.
z Remove all constrictions from the balloon neck; keep all hydrogen passages clear.
z Use inflation and launching device to minimize balloon handling.
z Inflate the balloon slowly on days of low relative humidity when static electricity is easily
generated. If the air temperature is above freezing, MET crew members should lightly sprinkle
the inflation area with water.
z Inflate the balloon slowly when using compressed hydrogen or helium in order to avoid bursting
or over-inflation. They should use the compressed gas regulator. A crew member adjusts the
regulator so that no more than 10 pounds per square inch (PSI) (.7030696 Kg/Cm squared) of
gas is being released into the balloon.
z Never deflate a hydrogen-filled balloon; release it gradually.
WARNING
z Wear a metal wristband connected to a flexible wire that leads to a good ground when in an area
where inflation is in progress. The band and wire will provide a path to ground for static
electricity.
z Ground the inflation equipment to provide a path to ground for any static electricity generated in
the equipment. They should also use ground cables to interconnect all metal parts of the inflation
equipment with ground.
z Follow the two-man rule for safety even though not all procedures require two personnel.
z See TMs 11-6660-222-12, 11-2413, and 11-6660-287-13, and Federal Meteorological
Handbook (FMH) No. 3 for further information on hydrogen safety precautions. Safety
precautions for handling commercial hydrogen are in AR 700-68.
GROUNDING PROCEDURES
7-4. Whenever hydrogen is used, MET crew members must use ground cables to connect all metal parts
of the equipment to each other and to a grounding field made of a minimum of two ground rods. On days
of low relative humidity, when static electricity is high, use additional grounding rods. Metal surfaces are
cleaned with sandpaper to get a good connection. Then ground clamps or alligator clips are used to connect
the cables to the metal. A crew member in the immediate area where hydrogen is being used should be
individually grounded by using the issued grounding strap assemblies. A path to ground for static
electricity is particularly important for the crew member who actually handles the balloon. Detailed
grounding techniques are explained in TC 11-6 and FMH No. 3. Also, see figures 7-1 and 7-2 for
examples.
HELIUM
7-6. Helium is the safest gas to use because it is not explosive, but it cannot be made artificially. Helium
is extracted from mines, stored in heavy cylinders, and shipped in cylinders for MET section use. Using
commercially produced helium gas to inflate a balloon is quicker and much safer than inflating with locally
generated hydrogen; however, it is difficult to resupply.
HYDROGEN
7-7. Hydrogen gas, unlike helium, is explosive and using it is dangerous. Accordingly, MET
crewmembers must follow all safety procedures for use of hydrogen to include using the balloon inflation
launching device. The MET station leader schedules classes on inflation using hydrogen gas to maintain
section members’ proficiency.
BALLOONS
7-10. Balloons should be kept sealed in their original containers until just before use. They should be
stored in a dry place and at moderate temperatures. All balloons deteriorate with age; therefore, oldest
balloons should be used first.
SOUNDING BALLOONS
7-11. The sounding balloon carries aloft a radiosonde and associated equipment, such as a parachute and a
night-lighting unit. Sounding balloons are made of neoprene and are designed to lift radiosondes to certain
minimum altitudes at specified rates of ascent. The bursting altitude of a sounding balloon depends on its
condition and type and on the inflation procedure used. High-altitude balloons weigh 1,000 to 1,200 grams
and burst near an altitude of 32,000 meters. At night, the balloons normally burst at lower altitudes.
Bursting altitudes are with respect to mean sea level.
PILOT BALLOON
7-12. This balloon provides a means of determining the speed and direction of winds aloft. The 100-gram
pilot balloon also can be used as a sounding balloon up to 3,000 meters. The theodolite operator can
observe a pilot balloon to a height of about 14,000 meters. Under various sky conditions, some colors are
more easily detected by the eye than others. For this reason, pilot balloons are issued in several colors. The
most common colors are white, red, and black. A general rule in selecting the color of the balloon is the
darker the sky, the darker the balloon.
7-13. Pilot balloons are also used to determine cloud height. This is done by inflating the balloon to a
known rate of rise and timing the balloon until it goes into the clouds.
PREPARATION OF BALLOONS
7-14. After exposure to relatively low temperatures and extended periods in storage, neoprene balloons
lose some of their elasticity through the crystallization of the balloon film. Neoprene balloons burst
prematurely if used in this state. MET personnel should inspect balloons prior to their use and discard any
that are brittle,-especially when using hydrogen. MET personnel should also discard any balloons older
than 5 years.
BALLOON CONDITIONING
7-15. Usually, exposure of the balloon to room temperature (21°C) for 24 hours is all the conditioning
required. Store balloons in their sealed package and do not expose to direct light or heat. Discoloration has
no effect on the balloon film as long as it is not the result of exposure to direct sunlight for several hours.
In direct sunlight and in most types of artificial lighting, discoloration is caused by the antioxidant included
in the compounding.
INFLATION
7-16. A balloon may be inflated immediately after conditioning, or it may be kept under normal storage
conditions and then inflated. All balloons should be at room temperature before inflation.
NIGHT-LIGHTING UNIT
7-17. The night-lighting unit provides a light source that allows the tracking of pilot and sounding balloons
at night. The lighting unit is called a light stick. A light stick is a small transparent tube containing a liquid
chemical. When the light stick is snapped, the chemical begins to emit enough light for tracking balloons.
Table 7-1. Balloon Ascent Rate, Free Lift, Weight, and Bursting Altitude
Balloon Type Ascent Rate (meters Free Lift Weight Balloon Weight Bursting Altitude
per minute) (grams) (grams) (meters)
Sounding Balloons
(Day)
200 Gram Balloon 320 510 200 21,200
ML-635 400 1,100 150 10,668
ML-537 305 1,600 1,000 30,479
ML-519 300 1,200 300 16,000
(Night)
ML-635 400 1,300 150 10,668
ML-537 305 1,900 1,000 30,479
ML-519 300 1,200 300 16,000
Pilot Balloons
ML-159A (White) 302 500 100 15,000
ML-160A (Black) 302 500 100 15,000
ML-161A (Red) 302 500 100 15,000
ML-50A (White) 183 140 30 10,000
ML-51A9 (Black) 183 140 30 10,000
ML-64A (Red) 183 140 30 10,000
7-25. When crew members use commercial gas for inflation, they obtain the correct total lift by inflating
the balloon until the volume meter ML-605/U reads the cubic feet required as determined from the
nomograph.
INFLATION SHELTER
7-26. There may be times when a MET station is in a fixed position and has some type of inflation shelter.
If an inflation shelter is available, MET section personnel do not use the inflation and launching device.
The section uses an inflation shelter; that is., the covered cargo area of a prime mover, to inflate the small
pilot balloon.
WEIGHING-OFF PROCEDURE
7-27. When an inflation shelter is used for inflation, the crew members determine when the balloon is
properly inflated by using a weighing-off procedure. A crew member attaches the balloon to an inflation
nozzle with appropriate weights to simulate the effect of free lift and the weight of the balloon train. When
the sounding balloon lifts the inflation nozzle off the surface, it is properly inflated. The pilot balloon is
properly inflated when it hangs suspended in midair, neither rising nor falling.
WEIGH-OFF CALCULATIONS
7-28. To achieve weigh-off, a crew member must calculate the required weights to be added to the
inflation nozzle. For example, to calculate the weight required to be added to the ML-196 nozzle of a
sounding balloon, a crew member must determine total lift. The weight of the balloon is not figured in the
total weight because as the balloon is inflated it automatically compensates for itself. The nozzle weight
(1,500 grams) is deducted, and the remainder is the additional weight required to be placed on the nozzle.
The nozzle weights are 100, 200, 400, 500, and 1,000 grams. See figure 7-5 for an example.
NOZZLE CARE
7-32. Crew members must keep the nozzles free of dirt, lime, or other foreign matter that will alter its
weight or obstruct the gas passages.
INFLATION SHELTER
7-36. A crewmember first shakes the balloon to remove the powder inside and rolls it up to expel any air.
The balloon is attached to the inflation nozzle by tying it with a small piece of twine. The crewmenber then
attaches to the inflation nozzle the combination of weights required to balance the required total lift.
BALLOON TRAIN
7-38. The balloon train is the trailing end of the twine used to seal or tie off the inflated balloon.
Components such as the radiosonde and parachute are further attached to the balloon train and become a
part of it. A night-lighting device may be included in the train between the parachute and the radiosonde to
aid initial tracking of the balloon-borne radiosonde. The balloon train is normally approximately 20 meters
long in order to dampen the oscillation of the radiosonde.
7-39. When a crew member has properly inflated the balloon, he/she removes the inflation nozzle and
seals and ties off the balloon. The crew member doubles a 20-meter length of twine to a 10-meter length
(double strength) and ties and seals the neck of the balloon with the open end of the twine. Next, unless the
crew member is in an active theater of operations, the parachute is secured to the closed end of the doubled
twine. Normally, the parachute is not used in combat operations. The crew member then doubles another
20-meter length of twine, secures the open end to the bottom of the parachute suspension lines, and ties the
radiosonde to the closed end. If the radiosonde being used has an unwinder, the crew member shortens the
length of twine from the balloon to the parachute to approximately 1 meter and ties the radiosonde directly
to the parachute suspension lines. In moderate to high winds, twine should be manually unwound and
secured to prevent damage to the radiosonde during release. Figure 7-7 shows the balloon train.
NOTE: If operating in the vicinity of an airfield, notify the air traffic control tower prior to
balloon release.
7-40. Because of the time it takes to prepare each sounding and the cost of the components, the MET
section crew members must make every effort to release a balloon without damaging the components.
Damaging the train during release causes disruption of the scheduled release times. This could affect the
mission of the artillery. There are several release methods. Which method to use depends on the surface
weather conditions at the time of release. The release methods for the balloon train are discussed below.
They should be followed to ensure that the balloon train release is achieved without damaging any
component.
a larger sounding balloon, additional crewmembers may need to help in the release. After the balloon is
inflated, crewmembers move the inflation and launching device with the balloon train attached downwind
and position it with the front of the inflation and launching device pointing downwind. If there are high
winds, they may have to stake the skids of the inflation and launching device to the ground to ensure
stability. Just before release, a crew member removes the safety strap from the lift dot fastener stud and
manually positions the release strap fastener in the groove on the stud to ensure that the proper release
action will occur. When the section is ready to release, a crew member takes the radiosonde part of the
balloon train downwind from the inflation and launching device. The crewmember holding the radiosonde
pulls on the radiosonde end of the balloon train. This action frees the master loop and allows the end of the
canopy to open. When the canopy opens, the balloon is released. When the balloon has risen to an altitude
where the balloon train supports the attached components clear of the ground, the release of the radiosonde
is completed and the sounding is underway. Figure 7-8 shows a release from the inflation and launching
device.
HAND-OVER-HAND
7-43. The section uses the hand-over-hand method when the surface winds are relatively calm. Normally,
use of this method of release requires two crew members. One crewmember takes the radiosonde and
moves downwind until the length of the train is taut. This crew member serves as the balloon train anchor
until time of release. The second crew member grasps the balloon by the neck and removes the balloon
from the inflation shelter. He/she then plays out the balloon and its attached train in a hand-over-hand
fashion, moving toward the first crew member and keeping the twine taut until the radiosonde is lifted off
the ground.
SHROUD POSITIONING
7-46. To place the balloon in the shroud, a crew member must lower the balloon as close as possible to the
ground. The crew member then places two of the shroud flaps over one side of the balloon and allows the
balloon to rise under the shroud. The top cord is attached to the loop at the top of the shroud so that the
crew member can handle the bottom end of the top cord. The crew member holds the four D handles with
one hand and the top cord with the other and moves the balloon to the release point. Ordinarily, the balloon
can be moved to the release point by one crew member holding the D handles and the top cord while a
second crew member carries the radiosonde and parachute. In very high winds, two crew members are
needed to hold the balloon, one to hold the top cord and the other to hold the D handles.
NOTE: To prevent accidental loss of the shroud if all four D handles are released, the top cord
should be tied to the crew member releasing the balloon.
RELEASE PROCEDURE
7-47. Normally, one crew member holds the shroud while the other crew member holds the radiosonde
downwind from the balloon. The crew member holding the shroud releases the front two D handles at the
same time while continuing to hold the rear two D handles and the top cord. The balloon slides out from
under the shroud. As the balloon ascends, the second crew member maintains a position directly under the
drifting balloon until the radiosonde lifts from the hands. Figure 7-9 shows a release using a shroud.
Manning, fixing, and sustaining the force is essential for effective combat operations.
Sound planning is essential so that MET support is always available in the area of
operations. Planning is done at force artillery headquarters to ensure MET sections
receive adequate and timely support. This chapter focuses on logistic planning
considerations that are the responsibility of the MET station leader and the
operational supervisors.
PERSONNEL
8-1. Strength accounting is the process by which personnel combat readiness is measured. It keeps track
of the troops on hand, identifies those that have been lost, and identifies those that are needed.
READINESS MANAGEMENT
8-2. Commanders must be very cautious when filling vacancies for the MET personnel because of the
low density and criticality of the 13W MOS. Commanders must request personnel far enough in advance to
ensure a smooth rotation of MET personnel. Further care must be taken to ensure that the request for repair
personnel (13WlOHl, 13W2OHl) contains the required additional skill identifier (ASI) of Hl after the base
MOS. If the Hl ASI is not annotated, only MET crew members without maintenance training will be
received by the unit. This leaves the MET section without the required maintenance personnel to repair the
MET equipment. All requests for replacements and evacuation reporting should be handled by the unit S1.
All shortages of positions that require the H1 ASI should be reported as critical.
SUSTAINING SOLDIERS
8-3. Commanders and MET station leaders must diligently manage and execute sustainment support for
MET personnel. Oftentimes the MET section is not with its parent organization; therefore, timely food,
medical, chaplain, pay, and postal services must be provided to ensure Soldier morale and combat
effectiveness. MET station leaders must coordinate with supported units for this support. MET station
leaders must also direct the health and welfare activities of section personnel. These include but are not
limited to the following:
z Coordinate for food, water, and other life support.
z Inspect Soldier’s personal hygiene.
z Inspect Soldier’s personal gear.
z Ensure medical problems are promptly attended.
z Schedule rest periods.
LOGISTICS PLANNING
8-4. Logistic planning must include the requirements for sustaining MET sections during extended
combat operations. The logistic plan based on adequate and timely support of the tactical operation must be
complete, simple, and flexible. Logistic planning must address the following:
z Movement and load planning.
z Basic loads and stock levels.
z Supply channels and location of reserve stocks.
z Communications.
z Maintenance concept.
8-5. Met Personnel must be fully aware of the status of basic load quantities. The successful
accomplishment of the mission depends on having the necessary of quantities of expendables to perform
the mission.
8-6. The status of the basic load should be monitored at all times to ensure sufficient expendables remain
available to accomplish the mission.
8-7. A MET section basic load is the amount of expendables (radiosondes, balloons, parachutes, and so
forth) required to sustain combat operations for 72 hours. Basic loads for MET sections are determined by
the amount of expendables needed for the maximum number of balloon releases per section per day of
operations. A MET section can run one flight per hour, up to a maximum of 12 flights per day. Each
section is allocated 6 hours per day for maintenance and movement. The maximum numbers of flights cited
here are for intense battle only. The cost of expendables precludes the maximum number of flights being
flown for training.
8-8. Current authorized stockage levels are listed in TM 11-6660-218-20P, TM 11-6660-283-13, and TM
11-6660-293-12&P (MMS–P equipped sections).
SUPPLY CHANNELS
8-11. With current authorizations of vehicles and personnel, each MET section can only transport a 72-
hour supply of expendables. As supplies are expended, resupply must be done by the division support
command (DISCOM). Maneuver experience factors indicate that the DISCOM should keep a 14-day
supply level per MET section and the corps support command (COSCOM) should keep a 30-day supply
level per MET section.
RESUPPLY PUBLICATIONS
8-12. The nomenclature and quantities of items authorized per MET section are in TM 11-6660-265-10-
HR, TM 11-6660-218-20P, and TM 11-6660-283-13, and TM 11-6660-293-12&P (MMS–P equipped
sections). Because MET section expendables are very low-density items, division and corps stockage levels
must be carefully monitored. Careful management prevents exhaustion of supplies and subsequent
interruption of MET support on the battlefield.
ADDITIONAL RESUPPLY
8-13. Met sections require other forms of supplies. The most important supplies are petroleum, oils, and
lubricants (POL); spare parts; food; water; and ammunition. It is very important that all aspects of resupply
are considered when developing the resupply rate for MET sections. The MET station leader must develop
proper usage rates for all supplies to ensure smooth, continuous operations.
COMMUNICATIONS
8-14. For the MET section to achieve its mission, communications must be established quickly and
maintained. Primary references for MET section communications are TM 11-5820-401-10-1 and -2. The
MET station leader must ensure all members of the section are properly trained in correct communications
procedures and on section communications equipment. The MET section point of contact for
communications requirements and training is the unit signal officer. The MET station leader is responsible
for maintaining all aspects of communications to include the following:
z Familiarity with the unit signal operating instructions (SOI).
z Communication systems initialization and setup.
z Assigned frequencies and network protocols.
z Encryption procedures.
z Radio procedures.
z Communications security.
z Message development and emergency procedures.
z Alternate forms of communication.
MAINTENANCE CONCEPT
8-15. The Army adheres to a two-level maintenance concept as outlined in the maintenance allocation
chart (MAC) for each system. The MAC designates overall authority and responsibility for the
performance of all maintenance and repair functions. Under the two-level maintenance concept, the levels
are organized as follows:
z The field level includes operator /crew maintenance, unit maintenance, and direct support
maintenance.
z The sustainment level includes general support and depot level maintenance.
8-16. The increasing complexity of equipment has lead to systems designed around the concept of line
replaceable units (LRU). When a faulty unit is identified, the LRU is replaced and sent to depot for repair.
Depot level maintenance is often performed by the original equipment manufacturer or contractor through
a Commercial Logistical Support warranty program.
8-17. The limited availability of spare LRUs and the time required for faulty units to be repaired at depot
level places an additional burden on logistics planners to ensure systems are not nonoperational due to lack
of operational LRUs. When troubleshooting the system, MET equipment repairers need to make every
effort to ensure an LRU is faulty prior to turning the component in for repair.
8-18. There is one maintenance standard. This standard is based on TM 10 and 20 series preventive
maintenance checks and services (PMCS). The goal of all levels of maintenance is to limit the downtime of
equipment. The objective of maintenance in combat is to fix as far forward as possible.
FIELD LEVEL
8-19. Field level maintenance consists of operator, unit, and direct support maintenance. The majority of
the system maintenance is accomplished as ‘fix forward’ maintenance.
8-20. The unit level maintainer is charged with all field maintenance.
Operator/Unit Maintenance
8-21. Unit level maintenance is the most critical. Unit level maintenance consists of the operator and MET
equipment repairer.
z Operator maintenance includes the following:
Before, during, and after operations checks.
PMCS.
Scheduled maintenance.
SUSTAINMENT LEVEL
8-24. Sustainment level maintenance is performed on the MMS-P by the manufacturer. Prior to sending a
system to the manufacturer, the logistics assistance representative and/or the field support representative
should be consulted.
8-25. Sustainment level maintenance is performed on the MMS by the DS maintenance initially. In most
cases, the entire system should not be sent to depot. Only the affected component is forwarded. Prior to
forwarding any item to depot, the logistics assistance representative and/or field support representative
should be consulted.
CAUTION
Personnel in field units will not create computer programs or
update existing programs.
All MET messages are coded in a format that is recognized and used by United States
and allied forces and weather services worldwide. These formats are mandated by
several standardization agreements and quadripartite standardization agreements and
the World Meteorological Organization. This appendix discusses these messages.
This appendix implements STANAG 4061, STANAG 4082, STANAG 4131, STANAG 4140.
OVERVIEW
A-1. Digital transmission is the primary means of sending MET messages to FA units. The MMS
equipped MET section contains advanced field artillery tactical data system (AFATDS) formats for all
MET messages. MET messages are sent to FA firing units and FSEs, as required. The MET messages
normally are transmitted to the controlling headquarters fire control element (FCE). The communications
aspect (message address, message source, and authentication) of data transmission is in the first message
element, the communications (comm) line. There are two format differences between a digital MET
message and a standard MET message. The first is the comm line, which is required to transmit the
message. The second difference is the format of the MET data provided, which is by data line.
HEADER
A-3. The first six character positions in the comm line comprise the header field. The first six positions
are entry variables. The semicolon (seventh position) signifies the end of the header. The format for the
comm line header is shown in figure A-2.
Destination
A-4. The first position in the header field shows the destination of the message. On a received message,
the first position shows the sender. Specific FDCs may be addressed by using any letter or number, as
specified by the controlling FDC or FCE, SOI, or standing operating procedures (SOP).
Authentication Characters
A-6. Positions 3 and 4 are the authentication or serialization characters. These characters are the next
unused authentication codes. If no acknowledgment is received, the next set of numbers is used, and the
TRN is advanced one number.
Message Type
A-7. The message type (position 5) is a single number that represents the type of message being
composed for transmission or processing. The message type must be entered in the header by the operator
when he composes the message. MET messages are always type 3.
Message Source
A-8. The message source character (position 6) represents the source that transmitted the message as
specified by the controlling FDC or FCE, the SOI, or the SOP. The source character for a message
originated by a MET section is entered during initialization.
PRIORITY
A-9. The message priority is determined by the message category and type. It is specified by the
controlling FDC at the time of loading or system initialization. The priority scheme is numbered from 1 to
8, with 1 being highest priority. Message priority should not be altered by the MET system operator. The
priority field occupies positions 8 through 11. Its format in the comm line is shown in figure A-3.
SUBSCRIBER
A-10. The subscriber is the logical name of the recipient of the message. The subscriber is specified by SOI
or controlling headquarters SOP. The subscriber field (figure A-4) occupies positions 12 through 27 in the
comm line and consists of five separate subfields (indicated by slashes and commas). The first subfield
(position 15) is the section number, and the second (position 17) is the platoon number. These two
subfields are not used for all subscribers. The third subfield (position 19) designates the battery. The fourth
subfield designates the battalion and has two positions (21 and 22) for numbers. The fifth subfield
designates the regiment and has three positions (24, 25, and 26). When the MET section originates a
message, the subscriber name of the addressee may be specified; however, the destination code in the
header must be specified. If the subscriber name is left blank, the subscriber name defaults to the logical
name of the destination code. Therefore, the sender should enter the subscriber name if he wishes to relay
the message through to another subscriber.
SECURITY CLASSIFICATION
A-11. The security classification field occupies positions 28 through 33. It is entered automatically. This
field contains one of the entries in table A-1. The security classification field format is shown in figure A-
5.
Table A-1. Security Classification Field Entries
Entries Meanings
UN Unclassified
ETO Encrypt for transmission only
C Confidential
S Secret
CFR Secret formerly restricted data
SRD Secret restricted data
C*C Secret cryptography (crypto)
S#C Secret Crypto
SEGMENT INFORMATION
A-12. The segment information field (figure A-6) occupies positions 34 through 42. Positions 37 and 38
indicate the message segment. Positions 40 and 41 indicate the total number of segments in the message
chain. For example, “SG: 03,10;” means that this message segment is the third of 10 message segments. If
the field is not specified, one segment is assumed by the receiving computer. Message segment numbers
are automatically inserted in all transmitted messages.
DATE-TIME GROUP
A-13. The date-time-group field (figure A-7) occupies positions 43 through 57 of the comm line. For FDC
originated messages, the FDC enters the time of the last computer action or transmission. For MET section
originated messages, the date-time group should be left blank since the FDC inserts the time of receipt.
Positions 46 and 47 indicate the day of the month (1 through 31). Positions 49 and 50 indicate the hour (00
through 23). Positions 52 and 53 indicate the minutes (00 through 59). Positions 55 and 56 indicate the
seconds (00 through 59).
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
A-15. The automatic transmission field (figure A-9) occupies positions 66 through 69. The initial setting of
this field is left blank. If automatic transmission is used, the computer inserts the character A in position
68.
Figure A-9. Automatic transmission field format
HEADING
A-18. The message heading gives the message type, location of the MET section, date and time group in
Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), altitude above sea level, atmospheric pressure, and for the target
acquisition (TA) message, the cloud height from surface and the mean refractive index. Figure A-11 is an
example of the heading of a MET message. Table A-2 identifies individual fields of the heading.
NOTE: U.S. Forces use 0 for valid time, since they do not predict a
period of validity.
HGT:hhh; Designates altitude of the MET station above mean sea level in tens of
meters.
ATMS:PPP; Designates MET station pressure to the nearest millibar. For pressures
greater than 1,000 mb, thousands digit (000 to 999) is omitted.
NOTE: This field is used for all MET messages except the fallout MET
message.
CBMRI:CCC/NNN; Designates cloud height (CCC) above the surface of the lowest cloud at
the point of observation and the mean refractive index in “N” units.
Cloud height is in tens of meters. If NNN is not included in the
message, the spaces are left blank.
NOTE: This field is used only for the target acquisition MET message.
DATA LINES
A-19. Each data line contains the MET data for several zones, rather than each zone being transmitted by a
separate line as in the standard message. Data for each zone within the data line are terminated by a
comma. The data line is terminated by a semicolon.
OVERVIEW
A-26. Digital transmission is the primary means of sending MET messages to FA units. The MMS–P
equipped MET section produces MET messages on demand in the format requested by the using unit. This
is a shift from the manner MET messages were previously disseminated. Previously, a MET message was
generated on a planned schedule and transmitted to the controlling headquarters FCE. The MET message
was then broadcast (push method) to using units. The MMS–P processes requests for MET (pull method)
from using units. Upon the receipt of a request for MET, the MMS–P system generates MET data based on
the midpoint between the unit’s location and the target location.
A-27. Requests for MET and the resulting MET messages are normally routed through the controlling
FCE. Using the primary/indirect option on the Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System (AFATDS),
the using units can send requests to the MMS–P equipped system.
A-28. The MMS–P equipped section uses the common message processor (CMP). CMP use is mandated in
all newer systems to increase interoperability between systems. The MET messages generated by the
MMS–P display in a format consistent with the requirements of the CMP. The data generated complies
with all standardized agreements, and can be generated in STANAG format when that option is selected.
The MMS–P system can produce all messages generated by the MMS if specifically selected during the
sounding operation.
A-29. The exception is the target area MET (TAM) message. There is currently no STANAG agreement
for this message.
NOTE: There is no STANAG agreement for the TAM messages. Currently the only units that
will use a target area MET message are Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) equipped
units. They will use the TAM for a decision aid only.
NOTE: For the field artillery, the primary requestor will be the Firefinder Radar.
Refer to TM 11-6660-293-12&P, appendix G, for a detailed explanation of using the CMP with
the MMS–P.
Communications Setup
Communications GUI
A-37. The communications GUI provides the MMS–P operator with a method for defining the network
configuration, establishing the system’s address, and turning the network on and off. The network is
configured based on the type system with which the MMS–P is to communicate. Consult the unit
communications SOPs for guidance determining network configuration settings. Refer to TM 11-6660-
293-12&P, appendix I, for a detailed explanation of the use of the communication GUI.
IP Address
A-38. The internet protocol (IP) address is used by the TCIM device for sending and receiving
communications. This is the address other units in the field will use to address the MMS–P section. It is
entered in dotted decimal format. This address is assigned by unit SOP. Figure A-22 shows an example of
the local IP address.
A-39. The subnet mask address establishes defines which parts of the IP address belong to the network
address and the host address. The subnet mask is entered in dotted decimal format. This address is assigned
by unit SOP. Figure A-22 shows an example of the subnet mask address.
Subscriber Table
A-41. Prior to establishing communications, the MMS–P operator is required to populate the subscriber
table. The subscriber table contains the unit name, URN, and IP address for each element communicating
with the section.
Address Book
A-42. After populating the subscriber table, the MMS–P operator adds each of the units listed in the
subscriber table to the CMP address book. The operator will now be able to send message traffic to all
elements of the subscriber table.
TRANSMITTING MESSAGES
A-45. The manner messages are transmitted is dependent upon the message type and the conditions under
which the messages is being generated. Messages generated by the message generation function (MET
messages) are placed in the draft folder of the CMP to allow the section personnel to perform MET
checking procedures prior to transmitting the message to the requesting unit. These messages are
transmitted using the Send button on the CMP toolbar. Figure A-23 shows the location of the Send button
on the CMP toolbar.
Figure A-23. CMP toolbar
A-46. Messages created from a message format can be transmitted using the Send button located on
message format. Messages selected for editing display in the same message format used to create the
message and can be transmitted in the same manner. Figure A-24 shows the location of the Send button on
the message format toolbar.
IDENTIFICATION LINE
A-50. The identification (ID) line is arranged in four 6-digit groups. A symbolic code is used to identify
and encode the data in the proper format. Thus the symbols for the ID line are METCMQ, LaLaLaLoLoLo,
YYGoGoGoG, and hhhPdPdPd. In Figure A-26, the ID line is shown encoded.
Group 1
A-51. Group 1 consists of METCMQ. The symbol METCM is placed at the beginning of each computer
message. This symbol indicates that it is a MET message and that it contains computer-type MET data. The
digit under the symbol Q represents the global octant in which the MET section is located. For convenience
in determining the geographical location of the reporting MET section, the globe was divided into octants
numbered 0 through 8. Table A-9 lists the octants of the globe.
NOTE: The number 4 is not used. The number 9 is used when the location is coded.
Group 2
A-52. Group 2 consists of LaLaLaLoLoLo or XXXXXX. These six spaces are used to specify the location to
the nearest tenth of a degree. The symbol LaLaLa represents the latitude to the nearest tenth of a degree. The
symbol LoLoLo represents the longitude to the nearest tenth of a degree. When the longitude is over 100
degrees, the first digit is dropped.
Group 3
A-53. Group 3 consists of YYGoGoGoG. The symbol YY represents two digits for reporting the Greenwich
date of the observation on which the message is based. The Greenwich date may differ from the local date,
depending on the location and the hour of the day. The symbol GoGoGo represents three digits for reporting
hours in tens, units, and tenths of hours. Appendix G contains a chart of the world map that gives the
information needed to convert local standard time and date to GMT and date. The symbol G represents the
duration of validity of the message in hours. U.S. Forces always enter 0 in the space under G since the
period of validity is not predicted. Other NATO forces use digits 1 through 8 in this space. A code of 9
indicates a predicted validity of 12 hours.
Group 4
A-54. Group 4 consists of hhhPdPdPd. The symbol hhh represents the MET station altitude in tens of meters
above mean sea level. The symbol PdPdPd represents the surface pressure in millibars. When the surface
pressure is 1,000 millibars or higher, the first digit is dropped.
Message Body
A-56. The remaining lines of the message (ZZdddFFF TTTTPPPP) represent surface and zone MET data.
The symbol ZZ represents the line number that identifies the reported MET information with the
appropriate atmospheric layer. The line numbers begin with 00 (surface) and are numbered consecutively
through line 26. The symbol ddd represents the true direction from which the wind is blowing. The
direction is reported in tens of mils. The symbol FFF represents the true wind speed in knots. The symbol
TTTT represents the virtual temperature. This temperature is expressed to the nearest 0.1°K. The symbol
PPPP represents the air pressure. This pressure is expressed to the nearest millibar. The lines of the
computer MET message are encoded and transmitted in eight-digit groups with two groups for each line.
An example of the first two lines of a computer MET message is shown in figure A-27. The lines are
explained in the following paragraphs.
First Line
A-57. The 00 indicates surface level, 310 is a wind direction of 3,100 mils, 004 is a wind speed of 4 knots,
2923 is a temperature of 292.3°K, and 0974 is a pressure of 974 millibars.
Second Line
A-58. The 01 indicates surface level, 250 is a wind direction of 2,500 mils, 011 is a wind speed of 11
knots, 2931 is a temperature of 293.1°K, and 0962 is a pressure of 962 millibars.
Reverse Side
A-60. The back of DA Form 3677-R (figure A-28) shows a sample computer MET message and explains
the coding of the message. Also, the coding for octant of the globe is shown.
IDENTIFICATION LINE
A-63. The first four 6-digit groups pertain to the ID line of the ballistic MET message. The symbols are not
transmitted; they are only used by the encoder to put the information in proper format and sequence.
Detailed explanations of the symbols and the coding procedures for the ID line are discussed in the
following paragraphs. Figure A-30 shows an encoded identification line.
Group 1
A-64. Group 1 consists of METBKQ. The symbol METB is placed at the beginning of each ballistic MET
message. These letters indicate that it is a MET message and that it includes ballistic MET data. Either a 2
or a 3, depending on the type of ballistic MET message, is entered for the symbol K. The type 2 message is
prepared for surface-to-air trajectories. The type 3 message is prepared for surface-to-surface trajectories.
The digit under the symbol Q represents the code for the global octant in which the MET section is located.
For convenience in determining the geographical location of the reporting MET station, the globe was
divided into octants numbered 0 through 8.
NOTE: The number 4 is not used. The digit 9 is used when the location is coded.
Group 2
A-65. Group 2 consists of LaLaLaLoLoLo or XXXXXX. The symbol LaLaLa represents the latitude to the
nearest tenth of a degree. The symbol LoLoLo represents the longitude to the nearest tenth of a degree.
When the longitude is over 100 degrees, the first digit is dropped.
Group 3
A-66. Group 3 consists of YYGoGoGoG. The symbol YY represents two digits for reporting the Greenwich
date of the observation on which the message is based. The Greenwich date may differ from the local date,
depending on the location and the hour. The symbol GoGoGo represents three spaces for reporting the time
of commencement of the validity of the message in hours and tenths of hours. Local standard time must be
corrected to reflect GMT in this block. This correction can be made by referring to the world map in
appendix G. The symbol G represents the duration of validity of the MET message in hours from 1 to 8.
The code numeral 9 indicates a period of validity of 12 hours. U.S. Forces always enter a 0 in the space
under G since the period of validity is not predicted.
Group 4
A-67. Group 4 consists of hhhPPP. The symbol hhh represents the three digits indicating the altitude of the
MET station. The three spaces under hhh are used to express the altitude in tens of meters above mean sea
level. The symbol PPP represents the three digits indicating the atmospheric pressure at the MET station to
the nearest 0.1 percent of the ICAO standard. When pressure is 100 percent or over, the first digit is
dropped.
Explanation
A-68. The identification line is shown in Figure A-30 and explained as follows:
z The METB31 indicates a ballistic message type 3, surface to surface, and a station location in
octant 1.
z The 347984 indicates a station location at 34° 42’N latitude and 98° 24’W longitude.
z The 251380 indicates the date of the message is the 25th day of the month, GMT date, at 1348,
and it is from a U.S. Army MET section (This does not predict validity).
z The 036961 indicates the station altitude is 360 meters above mean sea level and the surface
pressure is 96.1 percent of standard.
MESSAGE BODY
A-69. The columns and lines in the body of the message (figure A-31) are used for encoding the ballistic
data for each line of the ballistic message. The first column is a list of the standard zone heights in meters.
The zone height data are not transmitted. The second column lists the line numbers identifying each
artillery zone of the atmosphere. The remaining four columns are used for encoding the ballistic MET data
pertaining to each line. Each line is transmitted in two 6-digit groups representing the line number and the
ballistic data in each standard zone. For example, the symbols for a line are ZZddFF and TTT ΔΔΔ.
Group 1
A-70. The symbol ZZ indicates 00 for surface, 01 for line 1, 02 for line 2, and so on. The symbol dd
represents the two digits indicating ballistic wind direction in hundreds of mils. The symbol FF represents
the two digits indicating ballistic wind speed in knots.
Group 2
A-71. The symbol TTT represents the three digits indicating ballistic temperature in percentage of standard
to the nearest tenth of a percent. For temperatures above 100 percent, the first digit is dropped. The symbol
ΔΔΔ represents the three digits indicating ballistic density in percentage of standard to the nearest tenth of a
percent. For densities over 100 percent, the first digit is dropped.
Explanation
A-72. The first line, (003104 and 014949), of the MET message (figure A-31) indicates the following:
z 00-Surface information follows.
z 31-Surface wind direction is 3,100 mils.
z 04-Surface wind speed is 4 knots.
z 014-Surface temperature is 101.4 percent of standard.
z 949-Surface density is 94.9 percent of standard.
Remarks Section
A-74. Below the ballistic data (figure A-32), a space is provided for any remarks deemed appropriate, such
as a comment on any unusual data in the message.
Reverse Side
A-76. The back of the form (figure A-33) shows a sample ballistic MET message and explains the
encoding. Also, the information for coding the octant of the globe is shown.
GROUP 1
A-79. Group 1 consists of METTAQ. The symbol METTA indicates that this is a TA MET message. The
symbol Q represents the octant of the globe.
GROUP 2
A-80. Group 2 consists of LaLaLaLoLoLo or XXXXXX. The symbol LaLaLa represents the latitude to the
nearest tenth of a degree. The symbol LoLoLo represents the longitude to the nearest tenth of a degree.
When the longitude is over 100, the first digit is dropped.
GROUP 3
A-81. Group 3 consists of YYGoGoGoG. The symbol YY represents the day of the month (GMT) of the
commencement of the period of validity of the message. The symbol GoGoGo represents the time of
commencement of the period of validity of the message. Time is recorded in tens, units, and tenths of an
hour (GMT). The symbol G represents the duration of the period of validity in hours from 1 to 8. Code
figure 9 indicates 12 hours. U.S. Forces use 0 since the period of validity is not predicted.
GROUP 4
A-82. Group 4 consists of hhhPdPdPd. The symbol hhh represents the height of the MET section above
mean sea level in tens of meters. The symbol PdPdPd represents the pressure at the MET section location
expressed in hundreds, tens, and units of millibars. When the value of the air pressure is 1,000 millibars or
more, the first digit is omitted.
GROUP 5
A-83. Group 5 consists of CCCNNN. The symbol CCC represents the height of the base of the lowest
cloud at the point of observation. It is given in tens of meters according to the cloud code in table A-11.
The symbol NNN represents mean refractive index at the surface in N units. If NNN is not to be included
in the message, these missing data will be indicated by three slashes (///).
GROUP 6
A-84. Group 6 consists of ZtZtdddFFF. The symbol ZtZt represents the zone number code. Table A-12 lists
zone number codes. The symbol ddd represents the mean wind direction for the zone given in thousands,
hundreds, and tens of mils. For zone number 00, the value is the wind direction at the MET section
location. The symbol FFF represents the mean wind speed of the zone in hundreds, tens, and units of knots.
For zone number 00, the value is the wind speed at surface.
Table A-12. Zone Number Code
ZtZt Height Of Midpoint Of Height Above MDP Of Zone (Meters)
Zone Above MDP
(Meters)
Base Top
00 0 - -
01 25 0 50
02 75 50 100
03 150 100 200
04 250 200 300
05 350 300 400
06 450 400 500
07 550 500 600
08 650 600 700
09 750 700 800
10 850 800 900
11 950 900 1,000
GROUP 7
A-85. This group consists of ttttUU. The symbol tttt represents the mean air temperature of the zone in
hundreds, tens, units, and tenths of a degree Kelvin. For zone number 00, the value is the air temperature at
surface. The symbol UU represents the mean RH expressed as a percentage in tens and units. A mean RH
of 100 percent is denoted by 00.
GROUP 8
A-86. Group 8 consists of 99999. This group is a message terminator. It is used only when the message is
transmitted by telegraphic means.
z The symbol Q represents the octant of the globe in which the MET station is located.
z The symbol LaLaLa represents the latitude of the MET station to the nearest tenth of a degree.
z The symbol LoLoLo represents the longitude of the MET station to the nearest tenth of a degree.
z The symbol dd represents the day of the month (GMT) of the sound ranging MET message.
z The symbol tttt represents the time message validity begins.
z The symbol TTT represents the effective (sonic) temperature to the nearest tenth of a degree
Celsius.
z The symbol DDD represents the effective wind direction in mils.
z The symbol SS represents the effective wind speed in knots.
HEADING
A-91. The heading of the WMO MET message is an identification line encoded in the format shown in
figure A-35. The parts of the MET message identification line are as follows:
z The symbol METW identifies the MET message as being a MET message in WMO format.
z The symbol Q represents the octant of the globe. The octant identifies the part of the globe in
which the MET section is located.
z The symbol LaLaLa identifies the latitude of the MET station location.
z The symbol GG identifies the release hour (GMT) of the sounding.
z The symbol LoLoLo identifies the longitude of the MET station location.
z The symbol gg identifies the release time to the nearest minute (GMT).
z The symbol YY represents the date of release (GMT).
z The symbol hhh represents MET station altitude in tens of meters.
Section 1
A-93. Section 1 of part A contains individual position identification data. Individual entries for section 1 of
part A are discussed below. The format for section 1 is shown in figure A-37.
z The symbol TTAA identifies the data as Part A (mandatory levels).
z The symbol YY represents the date of the flight (GMT).
z NOTE: If wind speeds are recorded in knots, then 50 is added to the date. For example, 15 May
is encoded 65. If wind speeds are recorded in meters per second, then the date is recorded in the
normal manner.
z The symbol GG represents the time of observation to the nearest whole hour (GMT).
z The symbol Id represents the hundreds' digit of the last millibar level that winds are available.
See Table A-13 lists the codes for last millibar level that winds are available.
z The symbol IIiii is a USAF location code. The II identifies the country or geographic area. The
iii identifies individual stations within the country or geographic area.
Figure A-37. Format for section 1, part A (TTAA) of WMO MET message.
Table A-13. Codes for Last Millibar Level That Winds Are Available
Code Figure Wind group reported up to and including the following standard isobaric surfaces:
Part A Part C
1 100 OR 15 mb 10 mb
2 200 or 250 mb 20 mb
3 300 mb 30 mb
4 400 mb .....................
5 500 mb 50 mb
6 ..................... .....................
7 700 mb 70 mb
8 850 mb .....................
9 ..................... .....................
0 1,000 mb .....................
/ No wind groups reported for any of No wind groups reported for any of the
the standard isobaric surfaces standard isobaric surfaces
Section 2
A-94. Surface data and standard isobaric surfaces data comprise section 2 of part A. Entries for section 2
are discussed in the following paragraphs. The format for section 2 is shown in figure A-38.
Figure A-38. Format for section 2, part A (TTAA) of WMO MET message
NOTES:
1. Geopotential heights are reported in whole geopotential meters for surface up to 500 mb.
Geopotential heights are reported in tens of geopotential meters for heights at the 500 mb level
and above. Geopotential heights below mean sea level are coded by adding 500 to the absolute
value. (For example, -239 is encoded as 739 [500+239])
2. Sometimes the surface pressure is lower than 1,000 mb, 850 mb, and so on. In this case, the
1,000 mb level is reported with slashes (///) after the height entry. Figure A-39 shows an
example of this reporting.
A-101. The symbol TTTa represents the surface temperature. This is a mandatory data entry for standard
isobaric surfaces.
A-102. The symbol DD represents the DP depression. This is a mandatory data entry for standard isobaric
surfaces.
A-103. The symbol ddfff represents the wind direction and speed. This is a mandatory data entry for
standard isobaric surfaces.
Section 3
A-104. Tropopause data entries are in Section 3 of Part A. These entries are discussed below. The format
for section 3 is shown in Figure A-40.
z The number 88 is the tropopause data indicator.
NOTE: If tropopause data are missing, the missing data are reported encoded as 88999.
Figure A-40. Format for section 3, part A (TTAA) of WMO MET message
Section 4
A-105. Maximum wind data entries are in section 4 of part A. These entries are discussed below. The
format for section 4 is shown in figure A-41.
z The number 66 or 77 is the maximum wind indicator. A 66 maximum wind indicator indicates
the greatest wind speed observed throughout the sounding and occurring at the terminating level
of sounding. A 77 maximum wind indicator indicates the level of maximum wind speed
occurring within the sounding. Maximum winds must be above the 500-mb level and over 60
knots in speed to be reported. When no maximum wind data is observed, 77999 shall be
reported for Section 4.
z The symbol PmPmPm represents the pressure at wind data.
z The symbol dmdmfmfmfm represents the maximum wind direction and speed. Wind direction is
encoded to the nearest 5°. The rounded digit is added to the hundreds digit of the speed. (For
example, 30160 is 300° at 160 knots.)
z The symbol 4vbvbvava represents the vertical wind shear data. These values are derived by using
analytical geometry and are not easily checked in the field. The data reported with this entry are
as follows:
4 - Vertical wind shear data indicator.
vbvb - Value of vector difference between maximum wind speed and the
wind blowing at 3,000 feet below the level of the maximum winds, in
knots.
vava - Value of the vector difference between the maximum wind speed and
the wind blowing at 3,000 feet above the level of the maximum winds, in
knots.
Figure A-41. Format for section 4, part A (TTAA) of WMO MET message
Section I
A-107. Section 1 of Part B contains position identification data. The data entries are discussed below.
Section I is shown in figure A-43.
z The symbol TTBB is the Part B significant levels indicator. TT means sounding was made by a
land-based station. UU means the sounding was made by a ship-based station.
z The symbol YY represents the date (GMT).
z The symbol GG represents the time of observation to the nearest whole hour (GMT).
z The symbol / represents the last level at which wind data were obtained.
z The symbol IIiii is a USAF identification code. The II identifies the country or geographic area.
The iii identifies individual stations within the country or geographic area.
Section 5
A-108. Section 5 of part B (TTBB) is composed of surface data and significant levels of temperature and
DP. The surface data entries and the significant level data entries are discussed below. Section 5 is shown
in figure A-44.
z The symbol 00 is a surface indicator.
z The symbol PoPoPo represents the surface pressure.
z The symbol ToToTao represents the surface temperature.
z The symbol DoDo represents the surface DP depression.
z The symbol 11 and symbols continuing on in multiples of 11 are level indicators.
z The symbol PPP represents pressure.
z The symbol TTTa represents temperature.
z The symbol DD represents DP depression.
Section 7
A-109. Section 7 of part B (TTBB) contains data on sea-surface temperature and sounding system used.
The 31313 is the section indicator. Section 7 is shown in figure A-45.
z The symbol Sr represents solar and infrared radiation correction.
z The symbol RaRa is the radiosonde/sounding system used.
z The symbol SaSa is the tracking technique/status of the system used.
z The symbol 8 is the indicator for time.
z The symbol Gggg represents time of observation, in hours and minutes.
z The 9 is the indicator for the sign of data, relative humidity, and sea-surface temperature.
z The symbol Sn represents the sign of data and relative humidity indicator.
z The symbol TwTwTw is the sea-surface temperature reported in tenths of a degree Celsius.
Section 8
A-110. Section 8 of part B (TTBB) contains cloud code information. 41414 is the section indicator. The
codes can be found in appendix B of this manual. Section 8 is shown in figure A-46.
z The symbol Nh is the amount of CL present or, if no CL is present, the amount of all the CM cloud
present.
z The symbol CL represents cloud classes stratocumulus, stratus, cumulus, and cumulonimbus.
z The symbol h represents the height above surface of the base of the lowest cloud seen.
z The symbol CM represents cloud classes altocumulus, altostratus, and nimbostratus.
z The symbol CH represents cloud classes cirrus, cirrocumulus, and cirrostratus.
Section 9
A-111. Section 9 of part B (TTBB) contains additional codes developed regionally. Section 9 is shown in
Figure A-47.
z The 51515 is the section indicator.
z The symbol AdfAdf represents the form of the additional data reported.
Section I
A-113. Section 1 of part B (PPBB) contains position identification data. Data entries are discussed below.
z The symbol PPBB is the part B (winds data) below 100 millibars.)
z The symbol YY represents the date (GMT).
z The symbol GG represents the time of observation to the nearest whole hour (GMT).
z The symbol a4 represents the type of instrument used in the observation. The symbol IIiii is a
USAF location code. The II identifies the country or geographic area.
z The iii identifies individual stations within the country or geographic area.
Section 4
A-114. Section 4 of part B (PPBB) contains fixed regional levels data. The data entries are discussed in
the following paragraphs. Fixed regional level data for part B are in table A-17. Heights indicated are
above mean sea level.
Table A-17. Fixed Regional Levels
Feet Meters
1,000 300
2,000 600
3,000 900
4,000 1,200
6,000 1,800
7,000 2,100
8,000 2,400
9,000 2,700
12,000 3,600
14,000 4,200
16,000 4,800
20,000 6,000
25,000 7,500
30,000 9,000
35,000 10,500
50,000 15,000
A-115. In the symbol 9tnu1u2u3, the 9 is a height indicator, and tn is the 10,000-foot indicator. The u1 is the
first wind level, u2 is the second wind level, and u3 is the third wind level. (For example, 90012 indicates
surface level, 1,000-foot level, and 2,000-foot level. If surface level were over 1,000 feet above sea level,
the indicator would be 90023. The 9205/ indicates 20,000-foot level and 25,000-foot level.)
A-116. The symbol ddfff represents wind direction and speed. Wind direction is given to the nearest 10
degrees. Winds are reported to the nearest 5 degrees by adding 500 to wind speed.
A-117. The format for part C (TTCC) is shown in figure A-49. Identification of individual entries is the
same for part C (TTCC) as for part A (TTAA). This section is omitted if the balloon bursts between 100
and 70 millibars. However, in this case, TTDD and PPDD must be transmitted so that the user can
determine what data are available between 100 and 70 millibars.
PART D (TTDD) – SIGNIFICANT LEVEL (TEMPERATURE AND DEW POINT ABOVE 100
MILLIBARS
A-118. The format for part D (TTDD) is shown in Figure A-50. Identification of individual entries is the
same for part D (TTDD) as for part B (TTBB).
to signify that the next six digits are a coded location of the MET station. The using unit must understand
the code used for the location.
A-123. The day of the month is entered in two digits. For example, the number 25 indicates the message is
for the 25th day (GMT) of the month.
A-124. The release time in hours and tenths of hours is entered in three digits. Thus, the number 138
indicates a release time of 1348 GMT.
A-125. A digit from 1 to 8 is entered to represent duration of validity in hours. Code figure 9 indicates 12
hours. U.S. Forces use the digit 0 since they do not predict how long MET messages will be valid.
A-126. The altitude of the MET station above mean sea level is entered in tens of meters. The altitude of
the station may be determined from a military map or from the survey section and is encoded in three
digits. For example, the number 036 indicates the station is 360 meters above mean sea level.
A-127. The line number is identified by two digits that correspond to the zone number. The first line
number, 00, indicates surface; 01, surface to 2,000 meters; 02, 2,000 meters to 4,000 meters; and so on.
A-128. Wind direction is encoded in three digits to the nearest 10 mils. Wind speed is encoded in three
digits to the nearest knot. The number 310 indicates the wind direction is 3,100 mils. The number 004
indicates a speed of 4 knots.
A-129. The remarks block is used to record other pertinent data.
A-130. The FOMET message is transmitted in a certain code group format. An example of the format is
METFMQ LaLaLaLoLoLo (pause) YYGGGG (pause) hhh (pause) ZZdddFFF (pause) ZZdddFFF, and so on.
OVERVIEW
A-133. All FA MET sections can produce an artillery limited surface observation (ALSO) MET message
in support of Army tactical operations. Only surface observation equipment is used to collect the data,
which are entered on DA Form 5033-R, Limited Surface Observation (LRA). A copy of this form is at the
rear of this manual. MET sections deliver the data to requesting agencies in plaintext format. The message
will be transmitted in six-digit groups. The order of groups must be maintained. Only the 99 group will be
considered optional and may be omitted if not applicable. If an element within a group cannot be reported,
it must be entered as a slash. Correct procedures for producing an ALSO MET message are described
below.
Additional Codes
A-140. Very often, significant features of sky cover cannot be explained simply by scattered, broken, and
so forth. Explanations for hilly or mountainous stations are included in the code and must be used. These
codes, which are extremely important to aircraft operations, are listed in table A-20.
Table A-20. Additional Codes
Code Description
3 - Scattered (Hills in clouds)
6 - Broken (Hills in clouds)
8 - Overcast (Hills in clouds)
Direction (D)
A-142. Wind direction is defined as the direction from which the wind is blowing. Wind may be read
from an anemometer. Table A-21 lists the codes for wind direction.
Table A-21. D-Direction From Which Surface Wind is Blowing
Code Figure Explanation Degrees
0 Calm
1 NE 023-067
2 E 068-112
3 SE 113-157
4 S 158-202
5 SW 203-247
6 W 248-292
7 NW 293-337
8 N 338-022
9 Variable
Speed (F)
A-143. Wind speed may also be read from an anemometer. If no wind equipment is available, the speed
may be estimated by using table A-22.
Table A-22. F-Force of Surface Wind (Beaufort Scale)
Code Figure Description Specifications Approximate Knots
0 Calm Smoke rises vertically Less than 2
2 Light Breeze Wind felt on face and leaves rustle 3-8
4 Moderate breeze Dust and loose paper fly about; 9-18
small branches move
6 Strong breeze Large branches in motion, 19-29
whistling in wires
8 Gale Twigs broken off trees; progress of 30-42
person walking generally impeded
VISIBILITY (V)
A-144. Visibility is an important limiting factor in flying operations. Poor visibility restricts visual
surveillance and flying observations. Visibility is the greatest distance an object can be seen and identified
by the normal eye without the aid of optical devices such as binoculars and starlight scopes. In actual
practice, visibility is the greatest distance that prominent objects such as trees, buildings, water towers, or
natural landmarks (hills) can be seen clearly enough to be identified. Visibility is reported in meters, to the
nearest hundred meters, as listed in table A-23. The visibility that is reported must be representative of at
least half of the horizon circle. In making this determination, the horizon circle is normally divided into
quadrants as shown in figure A-55. Any two quadrants may be used to determine the prevailing visibility.
Quadrant visibility may be reported as a remark at the end of the observation. If the observer feels that the
visibility in one quadrant is significantly different from the prevailing visibility, he should include a
remark, for example, Visibility N, meters. Any quadrant or direction may be used for this remark.
Daytime
A-145. In daytime, any building, water tower, telephone pole, road, hill, clumps of trees, and others that
can be seen under ideal conditions may be used as a visibility marker if the distance to the object is known.
Night
A-146. At night, the above objects can be used if their silhouettes can be identified. However, the best
nighttime marker is an unfocused light at a known distance from the observation point. This does not
include searchlights, airport rotating beacons, or automobile headlights aimed directly at you.
Smoke
A-148. Smoke is fine ash particles suspended in the air. When smoke is present, the disk of the sun
appears very red at sunset and sunrise and has a reddish tinge throughout the day. Smoke at a distance,
such as from a forest fire, usually has light grayish or bluish color.
Haze
A-149. Haze is dust and other material too small to be seen individually by the unaided eye. Haze reduces
visibility and resembles a uniform veil over the landscape that subdues the colors. Haze appears bluish
against a dark background but dirty or orange against a bright background such as the sun. In contrast, fog
appears grayish and feels damp on the skin.
Fog
A-150. Fog is very small drops of water suspended in the air that reduce visibility.
Blowing Snow
A-152. Blowing snow occurs when there is no appreciable amount of falling snow, but snow from the
ground is carried into the air by the wind and visibility is reduced.
Precipitation
A-153. Precipitation includes all forms of moisture that fall to the earth's surface, such as rain, snow, and
hail. All forms of precipitation can be classified as liquid, freezing, or frozen. Of special importance are the
freezing types of precipitation that present a great hazard to aviation. Precipitation is reported as
amplification of phenomenon reported by w. Table A-25 contains the appropriate codes.
Liquid Precipitation
A-154. There are two forms of liquid precipitation, drizzle and rain. Drizzle is very small water droplets
that seem almost to float in the air and visibly follow air motion. Drizzle falls from fog or very low clouds.
Rain is precipitation that reaches the earth's surface as relatively large drops. Rain can be classed as light,
moderate, or heavy, depending upon the rate of fall.
Freezing Precipitation
A-155. There are two forms of freezing precipitation, freezing rain and freezing drizzle. Freezing rain is
precipitation in the form of very cold raindrops, a portion of which freezes and forms a smooth coating of
ice upon striking an exposed surface. Freezing drizzle is precipitation in the form of very cold drizzle that
freezes in the same manner as freezing rain.
Frozen Precipitation
A-156. There are four forms of frozen precipitation: ice pellets, hail, snow, and snow grains. Ice pellets
are frozen raindrops formed by rain falling through a layer of cold air. Ice pellets may adhere to any
exposed surface, forming an uneven layer of ice. Hail is precipitation in the form of balls or irregular lumps
of ice. Hail results when water drops are repeatedly carried aloft to the colder air by the violent air currents
usually associated with thunderstorms. Snow is precipitation composed of ice crystals. Snow grains are
small grains of snow that are soft and opaque and lack the six-sided appearance of the ordinary snowflake.
Thunderstorms
A-157. A thunderstorm may or may not be accompanied by rain or hail.
Tornado
A-158. A tornado is a circular whirl or wind of great velocity and small horizontal diameter. The
horizontal diameter of a tornado varies from a few feet up to a mile, and the wind speeds often exceed 200
miles per hour. Tornadoes are short-lived, usually not lasting more than an hour or two. If a tornado is
sighted, the observer should call his reporting station immediately and give its location and direction of
movement. Speed in reporting the sighting is of the utmost importance to all concerned.
TEMPERATURE (TT)
A-162. Temperature is indicated in whole degrees Celsius. Negative temperatures are encoded by adding
50 to the absolute value of the temperature; that is., -20 degrees is coded as 70.
PRESSURE (PPPP)
A-163. The surface pressure to the nearest tenth of a millibar is encoded. When pressure is over 1,000
millibars, the thousands' digit is dropped.
Location
A-175. The location of the MET station and the octant is a check to ensure it is valid for your area of
operation.
NOTE: The date and time are Greenwich Mean Time, not local standard time.
Altitude
A-177. The altitude of the MET section should be checked on the map. An altitude error of 50 meters or
more can affect temperature and density accuracy.
Pressure
A-178. The pressure on the ID line should be the same as the pressure on line 00. This does not apply to
ballistic messages since all lines except the heading are reported in density percentage of standard.
NOTE: Large changes in wind direction are not uncommon with wind speeds less than 10
knots.
A-182. Temperature accuracy is hard to evaluate because of natural erratic changes. Any severe increase
or decrease in temperature (for example, +/- 20°K) is suspect and should be investigated.
A-183. Atmospheric pressure always decreases from line to line. Pressure never increases with height.
Transposed figures are the most common errors in pressure values. If errors in pressure are suspected, the
MET section must provide the corrected values.
those lines are greater than 10 knots. Ballistic wind speed changes greater than 15 knots from line to line
should be questioned.
A-185. Ballistic temperatures and densities should trend smoothly with no drastic changes between zones.
Normally, as density increases, temperature decreases. Rarely will both temperature and density change in
the same direction. If they do, those lines are suspect and should be verified by the MET section. Drastic
changes in density or temperature (2.0 percent or more) should be verified by the MET section.
This appendix provides the necessary tables and specific instructions to record cloud
phenomena for the surface “41414 NhCLhCMCH” group. This guidance assumes
minimal previous knowledge of synoptic code procedures; however, a basic
understanding of clouds is necessary. For those already familiar with synoptic codes,
some departure from conventional World Meteorological Organization coding
procedures will be noticed. By simply observing the elements requested and
reporting them according to tables provided in this text, the intent of the cloud entry
will be fully met.
B-2. All five digits must be entered, regardless of the presence or absence of clouds. The WMO format
for entry of clouds has been modified to meet National Climatic Data Center requirements. All stations
should follow this modified format, regardless of location. A description of the five-digit format follows.
B-3. Nh. Nh is the amount (in oktas) of the sky covered by all low clouds (CL) observed or the amount of
sky covered by all the middle clouds (CM) observed. In no case will the amounts of the low and middle
clouds be combined to report Nh. Use table B-1 to report the amount of low or middle cloud coverage.
0 0 0
1 1 okta or less, but not zero 1/10 or less
2 2 oktas 2/10 - 3/10
3 3 oktas 4/10
4 4 oktas 5/10
5 5 oktas 6/10
6 6 oktas 7/10 - 8/10
7 7 oktas or more, but not 8 oktas 9/10 or more, but not 10/10
8 8 oktas 10/10
9 Sky obscured by fog and/or other meteorological phenomena
/ Cloud cover is indiscernible for reasons other than fog or other meteorological
phenomena
NOTE: If there are any breaks in the sky at all, such as an overcast with a mackerel sky
(altocumulus pelucidus or stratocumulus pelucidus), Nh would be encoded as 7. If there are only
a few patches of low or middle cloud in the sky, Nh cannot be encoded as 0, but is encoded as 1.
A partial obscuration does not affect the coding of Nh. A total obscuration is coded as 9, not 8
(overcast sky).
B-4. CL. CL is the type of low cloud, based on the priority given in table B-2. This table presents the
specifications for type of low cloud, CL, in order of priority. Go down the table and use the first applicable
code figure. A slash (/) is reported if CL clouds are not visible owing to fog or similar obscuring
phenomena.
Table B-2. Coding of Low Cloud, CL
Code Figure Reportable Heights (ft)
CUMULONIMBUS PRESENT, WITH OR WITHOUT OTHER CL CLOUDS
CL = 9 If the upper part of at least one of the cumulonimbus clouds present is clearly
fibrous or striated, use CL = 9.
CL = 3 If the upper part of none of the cumulonimbus clouds present is clearly fibrous
or striated, use CL=3.
NO CUMULONIMBUS PRESENT
CL = 4 If stratocumulus formed by the spreading out of cumulus is present, use CL =
4.
NOTE: Clouds are divided into three families, and classified as low, middle, or high. The
general height ranges for these are surface to 6,500 feet for low, 6,500 feet to 20,000 feet for
middle, and above 20,000 feet for high. Remember, these ranges are not absolute, but given as a
guide only. More consideration may be given to the cloud form than the height in many cases.
Each cloud family is coded with a single digit, 0 through 9. The code figure 0 is used to indicate
that clouds are not present for a given family.
B-5. h. h = Height of the base of the lowest cloud seen. The height reported is with respect to the surface.
The height is coded as a solidus (/) if there is a total surface-based obscuration that prevents an observation
of the clouds. Use table B-3 for the cloud base height.
Table B-3. Height of Cloud Base Above Ground
Code Figure Reportable Heights (ft)
1 200 or 300
2 400 or 600*
3 700 to 900*
4 1000 to 1900*
5 2000 to 3200*
6 3300 to 4900*
7 5000 to 6500**
B-6. CM. CM is the type of middle cloud, based on priority given in table B-4. This table presents the
specifications for type of middle cloud, CM, in order of priority. Go down the table and use the first
applicable code figure. A solidus (/) is reported if CM clouds are not visible owing to fog or similar
obscuring phenomenon, or because of a continuous layer of lower clouds.
Table B-4. Coding of Middle Cloud, CM
Code Figure Coding Criteria
ALTOCUMULUS PRESENT
CM = 9 If the sky is chaotic, use CM = 9.
CM = 8 If the CM code figure 9 is not applicable and if altocumulus with sprouting in the
form of turrets or battlements or altocumulus having the appearance of small
cumuliform tufts is present, use CM = 8.
CM = 7* If the CM code figures 9 and 8 are not applicable and if altostratus or
nimbostratus is present together with altocumulus, use CM = 7.
CM = 6 If the CM code figures 9, 8, and 7 are not applicable and if altostratus formed by
the spreading out of cumulus or cumulonimbus is present, use CM = 6.
CM = 5 If the CM code figures 9, 8, 7, and 6 are not applicable and if the altostratus
present is progressively invading the sky, use CM = 5.
**There are several definitions of CM = 7 and each has a different priority; therefore, CM = 7 appears
several times in this code table.
CM = 4 If the CM code figures 9, 8, 7, 6, and 5 are not applicable and if the altostratus
present is continually changing in appearance, use CM = 4.
CM = 7 If the CM code figures 9, 8, 6, 5, and 4 are not applicable and if the altostratus
present occurs at two or more levels, CM = 7.
CM = 7, 3 If the CM code figures 9, 8, 6, 5, and 4 are not applicable and if the altocumulus
present occurs at one level, use CM = 7 or 3 depending on whether the greater
part of the altocumulus is respectively opaque or semi-transparent.
NO ALTOCUMULUS PRESENT
CM = 2 If nimbostratus is present or if the greater part of the alto stratus present is
opaque, use CM = 2.
CM = 1 If there is no nimbostratus and if the greater part of the altostratus present is
semi-transparent, use CM = 1.
CM = 0 No CM clouds - No altocumulus, altostratus, or nimbostratus.
/ CM clouds not visible owing to fog or similar obscuring phenomena or because of
a continuous layer of lower clouds.
B-7. CH.= CH is the type of high cloud, based on priority given in table B-5. This table presents the
specifications for type of high cloud, CH, in order of priority. Go down the table and use the first applicable
code figure. A solidus (/) is reported if CH clouds are not visible owing to fog or similar obscuring
phenomenon, or because of a continuous layer of lower clouds.
Use CH = 1, if the combined sky cover of cirrus in the form of filaments, strands,
or hooks is greater than the combined sky cover of dense cirrus, of cirrus with
sprouting in the form of small turrets or battlements, and of cirrus in tufts.
MMS equipped sections normally distribute MET messages digitally to all users by
broadcasting them on a specific schedule (push method). Some users, especially
firing units, may have an immediate need for MET data before being placed on
automatic distribution. All MET messages from MMS–P equipped sections using
220C Protocol are requested (pull method) by users. Users can request MET support
by using the procedures in this appendix.
Table C-4. Zone Number Codes for Target Acquisition MET Message
Height Of Midpoint Of Zone Height Above MDP Of Zone
ZtZt Above MDP (Meters) (Meters)
Base Top
00 0 - -
01 25 0 50
02 75 50 100
03 150 100 200
04 250 200 300
05 350 300 400
06 450 400 500
07 550 500 600
08 650 600 700
09 750 700 800
10 850 800 900
11 950 900 1,000
12 1,050 1,000 1,100
13 1,150 1,100 1,200
14 1,250 1,200 1,300
15 1,350 1,300 1,400
16 1,450 1,400 1,500
17 1,550 1,500 1,600
18 1,650 1,600 1,700
19 1,750 1,700 1,800
20 1,850 1,800 1,900
21 1,950 1,900 2,000
22 2,050 2,000 2,100
23 2,150 2,100 2,200
24 2,250 2,200 2,300
Table C-4. Zone Number Codes for Target Acquisition MET Message
Height Of Midpoint Of Zone Height Above MDP Of Zone
ZtZt Above MDP (Meters) (Meters)
25 2,350 2,300 2,400
26 2,450 2,400 2,500
27 2,550 2,500 2,600
00 0 0
01 100 0 to 200
02 350 200 to 500
03 750 500 to 1,000
04 1,250 1,000 to 1,500
05 1,750 1,500 to 2,000
06 2,250 2,000 to 2,500
07 2,750 2,500 to 3,000
08 3,250 3,000 to 3,500
09 3,750 3,500 to 4,000
10 4,250 4,000 to 4,500
11 4,750 4,500 to 5,000
12 5,500 5,000 to 6,000
13 6,500 6,000 to 7,000
14 7,500 7,000 to 8,000
15 8,500 8,000 to 9,000
16 9,500 9,000 to 10,000
17 10,500 10,000 to 11,000
18 11,500 11,000 to 12,000
19 12,500 12,000 to 13,000
20 13,500 13,000 to 14,000
21 14,500 14,000 to 15,000
22 15,500 15,000 to 16,000
23 16,500 16,000 to 17,000
24 17,500 17,000 to 18,000
25 18,500 18,000 to 19,000
26 19,500 19,000 to 20,000
NOTE: The MET messages (except for the TAM) generated by the MMS–P are based on the
mid-point between the gun location and target location grids.
NOTE: Even though the profiler will ignore the gun location and only use the target location,
both fields must be entered to generate the MET message.
NOTE: Although the profiler system was developed to allow for automated MET message
requests using the information request message format, this message format will not be available
until the next version AFATDS message set is fielded. Since the 188/220A protocol with
revision 3 message set does not support the information request message format, the requestor
must request MET messages using a free text message.
The MET plan contains the information needed to understand how MET assets will
be employed. This appendix shows an example of a MET plan. Table D-1 lists
acronyms and abbreviations for the example MET plan.
The classification is a header and footer that will appear on the top and bottom of each page.
TAB F (MET PLAN) TO APPENDIX 3 (FA SUPPORT PLAN) TO ANNEX C (FIRE SUPPORT) TO
OPORD 06-3, 1st Brigade Combat Team.
REFERENCE: Map, series JWT 128, MONROVIA, sheet 3 (DURIEN), edition 2, 1:50, 000.
Time Zone Used Throughout the Order: BRAVO.
1. SITUATION
a. Enemy Forces. Annex A (Intelligence) to OPORD 06-3.
b. Friendly Forces
(1) 1st Brigade Combat Team attacks to secure crossings over the RAMUZZA
River and destroys enemy in zone.
(2) Attachments and detachments are as follows:
(a) Section-1 is attached for admin and log support to 1-12th FA.
2. MISSION
The MET section of the 1st Brigade Combat Team controlling headquarters will provide MET data
support to U.S. and allied forces (artillery) and to the USAF.
3 EXECUTION
a. Concept of Operation. MET support will be provided on a continuous basis.
(1) The MET Section will provide automatic MET messages for artillery fires.
Direct coordination with firing batteries is required for special operations. Unless otherwise requested,
flights will be 3,000 meters altitude (line 6 [type 3 ballistic] and line 7 [computer]). Coordination with
allied sound and/or artillery units require direct coordination for both receipt and delivery of MET data
for artillery fires and allied sound ranging.
(2) The MET Section will provide high-altitude MET data for radiological fallout
forecasts and MET messages for USAF as requested by the using G2, S2, or staff weather offices.
MET messages for artillery firing and sound data and TA data will be generated from the same
sounding (ballistic type 2 and type 3, computer, and sound). Additional MET data for artillery firing will
be required at other times, as scheduled by individual units (U.S. and allied) through controlling
headquarters S3. Special limited surface observations will be provided for smoke and chemical
operations, as requested directly by the USAF.
(3) Controlling Headquarters operations officer will coordinate all MET section
displacements and other movements by echelons to provide uninterrupted flow of MET data.
(4) Target acquisition MET data will be developed as required. It will be
generated at the same time as ballistic data.
(5) Special MET data requests will be processed through controlling
headquarters operations officer for PSYOP units.
(6) Controlling Headquarters operations officer will establish liaison with any
adjacent allied artillery units and/or MET sections to provide a receipt of ballistic, computer, and
fallout data whenever similar data are not available from organic MET section.
b. Coordinating Instructions
(1) Priority of MET is 7 lines computer and 6 lines ballistic, up to 3,000 meters
for howitzer and 11 lines computer and 8 lines ballistic, up to 5000 meters for rockets. These
messages will be provided on a 2-hour basis unless otherwise coordinated with firing units. USAF
support and radiological fallout will be provided in addition to firing MET data.
(2) All firing elements within the sector of operations and spatial validity of MET
section locations will be provided MET support.
(3) There will be direct coordination between the MET section, the firing
battalion, and, the controlling headquarters operations officer regarding radiosonde frequencies, radio
frequencies, and movements of MET section.
(4) The controlling headquarters operations officer will position the MET section
to provide optimum coverage for all firing units (U.S. and allied) radar, unmanned aircraft system
(UAS), smoke units, USAF, Intel sections, and other MET users.
4. SERVICE SUPPORT
a. All MET-specific Class IX parts and expendable items will be routed from the
controlling headquarters S4 through artillery battalions down to the requesting MET section.
Organizational maintenance will be performed by on-hand unit maintenance personnel. Direct
support maintenance will be provided by the direct support battalion.
b. Controlling Headquarters S4 will monitor low-density, met-specific parts and
expendable items and cross-level between MET sections, as required.
The MMS and the MMS–P systems use the GPS system to track the movement of
balloon borne radiosondes giving the systems wind finding capability.
GPS SYSTEM
E-1. The GPS is a continuous, worldwide, space-based radio positioning and time-transfer navigational
system maintained by the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD). The GPS provides position, velocity, and
time (PVT) data that is highly accurate and continuous to an unlimited number of suitably equipped
ground, sea, air, and space users.
E-2. The system is unaffected by weather and provides a worldwide common grid reference system based
on an earth fixed coordinate system. For its earth model, GPS uses the World Geodetic system of 1984
datum.
E-3. The GPS consists of three main segments. They are the space segment, control segment, and user
segment. These are defined as follows:
z The space segment consists of a constellation of 24 low orbit satellites transmitting military and
civil navigational signals. Each satellite broadcasts radio frequencies (RF) ranging codes and a
navigation data message.
z The control segment consists of a network of monitoring and control facilities that are used to
manage the satellite constellation and update the satellite navigation data messages.
z The user segment consists of a variety of radio navigation receivers specifically designed to
receive, decode, and process the GPS satellite codes and navigation data messages.
SPACE SEGMENT
E-4. The GPS space segment consists of 24 satellites deployed in semi-synchronous (approximately 12-
hours) orbit. The satellites are positioned in orbital planes that provide a good geometric relationship
allowing four or more satellites to be viewed from any location on earth. Each satellite broadcasts two RF
signals. Each signal is modulated with a unique code sequence that allows the navigational set to identify
the satellite. Each satellite is also modulated with a navigational data message that gives the navigational
information about the operation of the satellite.
E-5. A minimum of four satellites are normally required to be simultaneously “in view” of the receiver.
The satellites provide the receiver four range measurements. Three of the measurements are used to
calculate a three-dimensional location of the receiver. The fourth parameter represents the user clock error.
Treating the user clock error as an unknown parameter enables most receivers to be built with an
inexpensive crystal oscillator rather than an expensive precision oscillator or an atomic clock.
CONTROL SEGMENT
E-6. The control segment of the GPS system consists of ground stations monitoring and controlling the
satellites by performing the following tasks:
z Track the satellites.
z Check and control satellite orbits.
z Update the satellite navigational message.
E-7. The control segment primarily consists of a master control station located in Colorado Springs,
Colorado, and monitor stations and ground antennas at various locations around the world.
E-8. The master control station is the central processing facility for the control segment and is responsible
for monitoring and managing the satellite constellation.
USER SEGMENT
E-9. The user segment is utilized by both military and civilian personnel. The primary intended use for
GPS is for military purposes. The Department of Defense (DOD) determines who has authorization to use
the GPS. The civilian code is limited by a selective availability program also called spoofing. Though
civilians are able to access the GPS, access is controlled by cryptographic techniques.
This appendix provides charts for the selection of optimum coverage. Section I
contains an overview of the long-range aid to navigation coverage charts. Section II
contains a map depicting very low frequency and Omega station locations. Apply the
procedures outlined in chapter 4 to enter the charts in this appendix.
Figure F-17. LORAN-C, north central United States chain, GRI 8290
Figure F-20. LORAN-C, south central United States chain, GRI 9610
Figure F-22. LORAN-C, United States west coast chain, GRI 9940
Safety is always a primary consideration of Soldiers and trainers at all levels. Often,
the implementation of safety and environmental procedures becomes
counterproductive, preventing units from conducting realistic training. Units must be
able to conduct realistic training while meeting all safety and environmental
requirements. This appendix addresses these requirements.
GENERAL
G-1. The first rule of safety is: “Do Not Take Chances.” Hydrogen gas is extremely flammable. Special
care in handling, storing, and disposing of waste is required to prevent injury or environmental hazards.
HYDROGEN
G-2. Mixtures of hydrogen and air can be highly explosive. Personnel using commercial hydrogen must
remove all possible sources of flames and sparks. Hydrogen burns with an almost invisible flame that is
difficult to extinguish. If hydrogen ignites, use powder fire extinguishers only.
Storage
G-3. Warning signs must be posted in all areas where hydrogen is stored. The hydrogen cylinders should
not be exposed to extreme heat or the direct rays of the sun. The area should be well ventilated and at least
50 feet (15 meters) away from ignition sources. Material safety data sheets (MSDS) must be kept on file at
each location.
Handling
G-4. All sources of static electricity must be provided a path to ground. All personnel and equipment must
be grounded when using or generating hydrogen. Fire extinguishers must be readily available. Personnel
must adhere to the detailed safety requirements outlined in chapter 7.
Disposal
G-5. Commercial hydrogen produces no harmful waste. When using the hydrogen generator set,
AN/TMQ-3, a cloudy substance, calcium hydroxide, is released into the water during the process. This by-
product is an environmental hazard. Before disposing of this deposit and the calcium hydride containers,
MET personnel must check with local agencies and comply with their procedures.
Environmental Awareness
Commanders, unit leaders, and Soldiers have specific duties and responsibilities
concerning protection of the environment. Soldiers are expected to do what is right in
the absence of specific guidance. Unit leaders and commanders must be competent
and confident in the area of environmental stewardship. Not all leaders are required
to be environmental experts; however, they must be aware and responsive to
compliance and prevention issues required during the execution of their duties. The
information contained herein is considered an overview of expected duties and
responsibilities in order to build a foundation of basic environmental awareness.
Throughout is reference to material for further reading; research of these documents
provides a complete explanation of legal and ethical responsibilities.
NOTE: Equivalent U.S. Marine Corps guidance documents include MCO P1200.7S and MCO
P5090.2A.
FIELD ACTIVITIES
H-4. The meteorological (MET) section provides accurate and timely meteorological data to both artillery
and other tactical units. This data is gathered via highly mobile, automated data processing and MET data
acquisition systems. In order to obtain this data, various processes are used to launch and track a balloon-
borne radiosonde. These processes apply and produce substances that have the potential to cause serious
damage to the environment. This section will identify and address the various preventive measures that can
be utilized in order to decrease possible environmental damage while conducting realistic training from the
met section, associated vehicles, and personnel involved in training and operations.
H-5. Key field environmental considerations include, but are not limited to, the following:
z Vehicles should stay on established roads, trails, firing points, and firebreaks, unless conducting
specific cross-country maneuver exercises.
z Follow land contours rather than driving up and down hills or along creeks.
z In order to minimize siltation of streams; use bridges or low water crossings when crossing
permanent streams. If crossing through a stream becomes necessary, then do so by the most
direct route (90-degree angle).
z Establish refueling and maintenance areas away from wetlands, drainage areas, and near or over
water sources.
z Federal law prohibits the removal of artifacts from federal property. Do not excavate, remove,
damage, or otherwise alter or deface any archaeological resource located on a military
reservation.
z Avoid off-limit areas for known archaeological sites during military training exercises. Penalties
can be up to $250,000 for knowingly disturbing a site.
z Be aware of and avoid nesting, bedding, and habitats of all species of birds and animals.
z Use radar-scattering camouflage netting as outlined in the field manual; not live vegetation.
z When planning training activities, conform to installation and community noise-abatement
regulations. Identify, mark, and abide by off-limit boundaries.
z Open fires, such as burning of garbage, refuse, and rubbish is not allowed on range areas.
z Conform to field sanitation and medical standards when using soakage pits for wash water,
liquid kitchen wastes, and grease traps per FM 21-10.
z Establish field satellite-accumulation site and procedures.
z Police field locations and establish field trash-collection point and procedures. Remove
materials packed into training area on departure from the training area.
z When the training exercise is complete, repair any field damage such as ruts from vehicles and
other emplacements.
z Conduct all training with a concern for conservation and future use of range training areas.
z Ensure that all U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and hazardous waste transportation
requirements are met prior to transporting hazardous material or hazardous waste on public
highways.
z Check with local environmental office for transportation procedures within the installation
boundary.
z For complete information regarding storing and handling of hazardous materials refer to TM 38-
410.
MAINTENANCE
H-10. The MET station leader assigns a hazardous material/hazardous waste (HM/HW) spill coordinator.
This person ensures the accountability, proper storage, and disposal of all HM/HW, and ensures that
HM/HW spills are immediately contained and reported.
H-11. Key maintenance environmental considerations include, but are not limited to, the following:
z Refueling operation SOPs should address practices to minimize spills.
z Implement preventive maintenance on all heavy equipment to ensure petroleum products will
not be released from the belly pan.
z Ensure pollutants are not discharged into storm or wash rack drains or poured on the ground or
along fence lines. Some common pollutants are oil, solvents, soap, diesel, gasoline, battery acid,
chemicals, waste antifreeze, paint, and grease.
z Parts containing asbestos, such as brake shoes, clutch plates, and equipment insulation should be
removed, collected, and disposed according to installation policy.
z The least hazardous or preferably, nonhazardous material to perform a function should be used,
unless previous research of options clearly indicates otherwise. The Defense Logistics Agency
(DLA) produces a manual, Environmental Products, to assist in this process.
z Do not mix fuel, oil, or antifreeze together. This is considered a mixed waste.
SUPPLY
H-12. The MET section is required to have a complete inventory of HM/HW generated by the section. The
MET station leader must know what chemicals the unit requires, where and how they are stored, how much
hazardous waste is generated, and necessary spill response procedures. He/she should coordinate with the
unit operations officer or environmental control officer (ECO) to ensure this information is incorporated
into the unit SOP.
H-13. Key supply environmental considerations include, but are not limited to, the following items:
z Requisition only supplies needed and authorized, avoid excessive stockpiling of materials.
z Maintain an accurate inventory in SOP of hazardous waste used by the MET section. This
listing should include waste by volume, type, generating process, and location.
z Use of used oil tanks for disposal of solvents, antifreeze, or other HM/HW is against regulation.
Storage of hazardous material must be in clearly marked DOT-approved containers.
z Actively support a unit-recycling program.
z Ensure tires and batteries are properly turned in for recycling.
z Ensure used batteries are turned in on a one-for-one basis.
SPILL RESPONSE
H-14. Generally, only persons specifically trained to respond to a spill should handle unit spills. However,
all personnel should, at a minimum, report the spill, and be aware of the following four basic steps to spill
response:
z Protect yourself. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) specified in the MSDS.
z Stop the flow. This may be as simple as placing the container upright or closing a valve.
z Contain the spill. Place absorbent material around the spill, and protect drains and ditches.
z Report the spill. Notify supervisor, and other key personnel.
H-15. Each unit is responsible for the cleanup of their own spills, as long as no personnel are put in danger.
After the above four steps are completed, take the necessary steps to cleanup the spill. Information on
cleanup procedures can be found on the MSDS, unit SOP, or contact installation environmental staff for
guidance. Turn in the spilled material and absorbent to the Defense Reutilization Marketing Office
(DRMO), or another designated point if a DRMO is not available. Also, ensure adequate spill supplies are
on-hand for future use.
H-16. Key spill prevention, response, and cleanup considerations include, but are not limited to, the
following items:
z A spill prevention and response section should be included in the unit SOP outlining installation
spill plan requirements.
z Maintain a spill cleanup kit near any satellite-accumulation area, or where a potential for spill
exists. The kit should contain, at a minimum, absorbent material, shovel, brooms, gloves, and
appropriate containers. Units who have a potential for release or spill that may impact streams
should also maintain booms for containment.
z Drip pans should be used under vehicles and equipment where spills are likely to occur.
z Spills of oil, fuel, or other hazardous pollutants over 5 gallons (18.9 liters) in volume, 100
square feet (9.3 square meters) in area, or in any waterway should be reported immediately to
the chain of command.
z All topsoil contaminated with oil should be removed, properly disposed, and replaced by the
unit. While awaiting disposal, keep the excavated soil covered to prevent runoff in case of rain.
H-20. Regulatory agencies exist which require environmental training. This training may be general
designed for all personnel in the unit, or may be specialized training targeted at specific personnel. The
installation Environmental and Safety Offices can best assist in determining your training requirements and
who to contact for additional information. Table H-3 is provided as a reference of possible training
requirements for the MET section personnel.
H-24. Step 1. Identify Hazards - Environmental hazards include all activities that may pollute, create
negative noise-related effects, degrade archeological/cultural resources, or negatively affect threatened or
endangered species habitats. A select listing of common environmental hazards is located in table H-4.
Table H-4. Common Environmental Hazards
Media Area Common Environmental Hazards
Air Equipment exhaust, convoy dust, range fires, open-air burning,
pyrotechnics/smoke pots/smoke grenades, part-washer emissions,
paint emissions, air-conditioner/refrigeration CFCs, HM/HW release,
pesticides, other toxic industrial chemicals or material.
Archeological and cultural Maneuvering and digging in sensitive areas, disturbing or removing
artifacts, demolition/munitions effects, HM/HW spills.
Noise Low-flying aircraft (helicopters), demolition/munitions effects, nighttime
operations, operations near post/camp boundaries and civilian
populations, vehicle convoys/maneuvers, large-scale exercises.
Threatened and/or Maneuvering in sensitive areas, demolition/munitions effects, especially
endangered species during breeding seasons, disturbing habitat or individual species,
HM/HW spills or releases, poor field sanitation, improper cutting of
vegetation, damage to coral reefs,
Soil (terrain) Over use of maneuver areas, demolition/munitions effects, range fires,
poor field sanitation, poor maneuver-damage control, erosion, troop
construction effect, refueling operations, HM/HW spills, maneuver in
ecologically sensitive areas such as wetlands and tundra, industrial
waste runoff, pesticide accumulation in soil, vegetation, and terrestrial
organisms.
Water Refueling operations near water sources, HM/HW spills, erosion and
unchecked drainage, amphibious/water-crossing operations, troop
construction effects, poor field sanitation, washing vehicles at
unapproved sites.
H-25. Step 2. Assess Environmental Hazards to Determine Risk - A risk assessment is a tool used for
evaluating the most pressing or most hazardous potential environmental damage. It considers two factors:
probability, how often a hazard is likely to occur; and severity, the effect in degrees a hazard will have on
personnel, equipment, environment, and mission. Unit leaders should conduct risk assessments before
conducting any training, operations, or logistical activities that are not previously addressed in the SOP, or
when conditions differ significantly from the SOP. Complete information on risk assessments can be
obtained from FM 20-400 for procedures on how to perform an environmental risk assessment.
H-26. Step 3. Develop Controls and Make a Decision - This step is designed to reduce the probability or
severity of each hazard, which in turn lowers the overall risk. Control types fall in the categories of
educational, physical, or avoidance. Table H-5 outlines examples of environmental controls, and section II
above contains the specifics pertinent to the MET section.
To establish a common time and location, MET messages are reported in Greenwich
Mean Time while locations are prefaced with an octant of the globe code. Figure I-1
is a world map divided into time zones, global octants, and climatic regions
TIME ZONES
I-1. Time is calculated from the Greenwich meridian. The middle of the zero time zone passes through
Greenwich with its east and west limits 7° 30’ on each side. Each 15-degree zone east and west of the
initial zone represents 1 hour of time. The number of hours that must be added to or subtracted from local
standard time to give GMT is indicated for each zone. Political boundaries in the various countries have
caused modifications of the time zones. The vertical lines and clear sections are used to show which zones
these divisions belong. Where a half-hour difference is legal, horizontal lines are used. Where no zone
system has yet been adopted, the area is represented by small dots. Where no legal time has been
established, the larger dots are used. Variations from zone time are given in hours and minutes. Enter the
map with the section location and extract the time correction.
GLOBAL OCTANTS
I-2. Global octants are indicated by bold N-S, E-W lines and octant identifications. Determine the section
location on the map and extract the appropriate octant number.
CLIMATIC REGIONS
I-3. The seven climatic regions of the Northern Hemisphere are indicated and identified by the large
black numbers 1 through 7.
S3 operations officer
SF standard form
SFC sergeant first class
SGT Sergeant
SINCGARS single-channel ground and air-borne radio system
SIPRNET Secret Internet Protocol Routing Network
SOI signal operating instructions
SOP standard operating procedure
SPC Specialist
SOWT special observation weather team
SSG staff sergeant (Army)
SSGT staff sergeant (USMC)
STANAG standardization agreement
SWO staff weather officer
TA target acquisition
TACMET tactical metorology
TAM target area metorology
TB technical bulletin
TC training circular
TCIM tactical communications interface module
TM technical manual
TRN transmission repeat number
TSOP tactical standing operating procedure
T-VSAT Tactical-Very Small Aperture Terminal
UAV unmanned aerial vehicle
UPPS Unified Post Processing System
URL Universal Resource Locator
URN unit reference number
U.S. United States
USAF United States Air Force
USMC United States Marine Corps
V Volt
VAC volts alternating current
VDC volts direct current
VLF very low frequency
VMF variable message format
WB white bag
WLR weapons-locating radar
WMO World Meteorological Organization
Z ZUZU time zone
cursor
An indicator on a computer.
datum
A mathematical model of the earth used to calculate and specify geographic locations.
density
The mass per unit volume, measured in grams per cubic meter.
deviation
A departures from accepted policies or standards. Ballistic densities and temperatures are reported as
deviations from the standards that were used to develop the weapons firing tables.
domain
A square geographic area with a center point selected by the system operator.
downwind
The direction toward which the wind is blowing (with the wind).
dry-bulb temperature
The temperature measured by the dry bulb of a psychrometer; ambient air temperature.
elevation
The vertical distance of a point or level on or affixed to the surface of the Earth measured from mean
sea level.
elevation angle
Elevation angle is the angle between the horizon and objects above the horizon measured along the arc
which passes through the zenith and the object in question.
equation of state
An equation relating temperature, pressure, and volume of a system in thermodynamic equilibrium.
fallout
Fallout is the precipitation to earth of particulate matter from a nuclear cloud; also applied to the
particulate matter itself.
free lift
Refers to the net upward force required for a balloon to rise at a given rate. Free lift corresponds to the
specific balloon (sounding or pilot balloon) being used and is a portion of total lift.
fronts
A transition zone between air masses of different densities and temperatures.
geopotential height
The height of a given point in the atmosphere in units proportional to the potential energy of unit mass
(geopotenital) at this height, relative to mean sea level.
horizontal distance
The arc distance or the distance traveled by a balloon as projected to the earth’s curved surface.
hydrostatic equation
The basic force equation which states that the change of pressure with respect to height is equal to the
negative product of density and the acceleration of gravity.
hygristor
The hygristor is a humidity-sensing element or device; a resistor whose resistance varies according to
the amount of moisture in the air.
inversion
An increase of air temperature with increase in altitude (the ground being colder than the surrounding
air). When an inversion esists, there are not convection currents an dwind speed apre below 5 knots.
The atmosphere is stable and normally is considered the most favorable state for ground release of
chemical agents.
isobar
A line of constant pressure.
isobaric
Means of equal or constant pressure.
isotherm
A line of constant temperature.
isothermal
Means of equal or constant temperature.
kelvin scale (°K)
An absolute temperature scale with a freezing point of 273.16°K and a boiling point of 373.16°K.
lapse rate
The rate at which temperature changes with altitude.
Local observations
Meteorological observations gathered at the current shelter location. Also referred to as local data or
local met.
low-level winds
Winds in the friction layer of the atmosphere.
magnetic declination
The angle between the magnetic and geographical meridians at any place, expressed in degrees east or
west to indicate the direction of magnetic north from true north. In nautical and aeronautical
navigation, the term magnetic variation is used instead of magnetic declination and the angle is termed
variation of the compass or magnetic variation.
mandatory level
One of several constant-pressure levels in the atmosphere for which a complete evaluation of data
derived from upper air observation is required.
mean sea level
The average height of the surface of the sea for all stage of the tide; used as a reference for elevations.
mean sea level pressure
The station pressure reduced to mean sea level pressure.
meteorological datum plane
The altitude of the met station from which all met computations are based.
meteorological day
A 24-hour day divided into three periods - night, afternoon, and transition.
meteorological data
Meteorological facts pertaining to the atmosphere, such as wind, temperature, air density, and pressure
an other phenomena that affect military operations.
meteorology
The study of the earth’s atmosphere.
millibar
A unit of atmospheric pressure.
modulator
The part of a radiosonde which contains the sensing elements and baroswitch.
N unit
A mathematically simplified unit of refraction; designed to replace complex numbers involved in the
values of the index of refraction.
NOGAPS data
Worldwide forecast model data for the next 72 hours produced by the Navy Operational Global
Atmospheric Prediction System (NOGAPS).
nowcast
A weather forecast for “now,” meaning a very short term forecast.
nowcast segment
The 30-minute period in which an iteration of modeling is done by the MM5.
observations
Actual measurements of meteorological conditions, as opposed to predicted or interpolated values.
Also referred to as real-time meteorological observations.
offset
The difference in distance and azimuth from a tracking point to the point of release of a sounding or
pilot balloon.
operational response
The data entered during the operation of the flight.
optical-electrical bearing clock
A check performed to ensure that the optical axis of the telescope is parallel to the electrical axis of the
radio direction finding antenna.
orographic
Means of, pertaining to, or (frequently in meteorology) caused by mountains.
parameter
A quantity to which arbitrary values may be assigned, such a temperature, density, or pressure values.
pilot balloon
A small balloon whose ascent is followed by a theodolite to obtain data for computing speed and
direction of winds in the upper air.
precipitation
The form of water, either liquid or solid, that falls from the atmosphere, and which reaches the ground.
pressure gradient
The spacing between lines of constant pressure, or isobars.
radioactive fallout
The eventual descent to the earth’s surface of radioactive matter placed in the atmosphere by atomic or
thermonuclear explosion (also called radiological fallout).
radio direction finder
A component of the MMS that tracks the radiosonde signal.
radiosonde
A balloon-borne instrument (radio) that measures and transmits meteorological data.
rawin
Rawin is a method of winds aloft observation; that is, the determination of wind speed and direction in
the atmosphere above the station by using radar or a radio direction finder; a contraction of radio
winds.
rawinsonde (radiosonde and wind sounding, combined)
A method of winds aloft observation that determines wind speed and direction in the atmosphere
above the station by using radar of a radio direction finder. [Note: the term is a contraction of “radio
winds”].
relative humidity
The ratio of the actual vapor pressure of the air to the saturation vapor pressure, usually expressed in
percent.
sounding
Upper-air meteorological data gathered by sensors and transmitted to a ground receiver by the
radiosonde carried aloft by a balloon.
sounding balloon
A free, unmanned balloon carrying a radiosonde to sound the upper air.
spatial validity
The space, or distance, from the location of the met section that is estimated or determined to be within
the valid limitation of the MET sounding.
standard height
station pressure
Surface pressure at the observing station; the atmospheric pressure computed for the level of the
station elevation.
surface wind
The wind speed and direction as measured at the surface with an anemometer.
temperature element
A thermistor which is a resistor that reacts to temperature changes.
theodolite
An optical instrument which consists of a sighting telescope and graduated scales to read angles of
azimuth and elevation.
thermistor temperature
The temperature measured by the temperature element (thermistor) on a radiosonde.
total lift
The weight (grams) of the balloon with attachments that must be balanced by the gas volume in the
inflated balloon for the balloon to rise at a desired rate of ascent.
trajectory
The path of a projectile in the earth’s atmosphere.
true north
The direction from any point on the earth’s surface toward the geographic north pole.
virtual temperature
In a system of moist air, the temperature of dry air having the same density and pressure as the moist
air. The virtual temperature is always greater than the actual temperature.
visual technique
The determination of upper air conditions from PIBAL observations and the measurement of surface
temperature, pressure, and relative humidity.
weather forecast
A prediction of expected weather conditions at a point, along a route, or within an area, for a given
time or specific period of time in the future.
weather information
Information concerning the state of the atmosphere, mainly with respect to its effects on the military;
data and information concerned with forecasts, summaries, and climatology.
weighing off
A balloon inflation procedure when using an inflation shelter which involves inflating the balloon with
attached weights in the inflation shelter until it just lifts off the ground and remains suspended in air.
weighting factor
A factor used in weighting the effects of met conditions in each artillery zone.
wet-bulb depression
The difference in degrees between the dry-bulb temperature and the wet-bulb temperature.
wet-bulb temperature
The temperature measured by the wet bulb of a psychrometer; used to determine wet-bulb depression.
wind chill
That part of the total cooling of a body caused by air motion.
SOURCES USED
These are the sources quoted or paraphrased in this publication.
AR 95-10, Department of Defense Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) System. 1 August 2004.
AR 115-10, Weather Support for the U.S. Army. 30 June 1996.
FM 1-02, Operational Terms and Graphics. 21 September 2004.
FM 1-230, Meteorology for Army Aviators. 30 September 1982.
FM 3-0, Operations. 14 June 2001.
FM 3-09.12, Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Field Artillery Target Acquisition. 21 June
2002.
FM 3-09.21, Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for the Field Artillery Battalion. 22 March 2001.
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FM 21-10. Field Hygiene and Sanitation. 21 June 2000.
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TM 38-410, Storage and Handling of Hazardous Materials. 13 January 1999.
DOCUMENTS NEEDED
These documents must be available to the intended users of the publication.
AR 700-68, Storage and Handling of Liquefied and Gaseous Compressed Gases and their Full and
Empty Cylinders. 16 June 2000.
DA Form 2404, Equipment Inspection and Maintenance Worksheet.
DA Form 2407, Maintenance Request.
DA Form 3675-R, Ballistic Message (LRA).
DA Form 3676-R, Fallout Message (LRA).
DA Form 3677-R, Computer Met Message (LRA).
DA Form 5033-R, Limited Surface Observation (LRA).
FM 4-25.11, First Aid. 23 December 2002.
FM 4-30.3, Maintenance Operations and Procedures. 28 July 2004.
FM 6-16, Tables for Artillery Meteorology (Electronic) Ballistic Type 3 and Computer Messages,
10 May 1979.
FM 20-3, Camouflage, Concealment, and Decoys. 30 August 1999.
STP 6-93F14-SM-TG, Soldier's Manual, Skill Levels 1/2/3/4 and Trainer's Guide, MOS 93F, Field
Artillery Meteorological Crew Member. 2 March 1993.
TB 9-6660-270-50, Calibration Procedures for Aneroid Barometers ML-102(), ML-332/TM, ML-
333/TM, and FA112150. 22 January 1986.
TB 43-0129, Safety Requirements for Use of Antenna and Mast Equipment. 15 June 1986.
TB 43-0134, Battery Disposition and Disposal. 1 October 1996.
TB 385-4, Safety Requirements for Maintenance of Electrical and Electronic Equipment. 1 August
1992.
TM 5-1080-200-13&P, Operator's, Unit, and Direct Support Maintenance Manual (Including Repair
Parts and Special Tools List) for Lightweight Camouflage Screen Systems and Support
Systems. 29 January 1987.
TM 9-2320-280-10, Operator’s Manual for Truck, Utility: Cargo/Troop Carrier, 1-1/4 ton, 4x4, M998
(2320-01-107-7155) (EIC: BBD); M998A1 (2320-01-371-9577) (EIC: BBN); Truck, Utility:
Cargo/Troop Carrier, 1-1/4 ton, 4x4, w/Winch, M1038 (2320-01-107-7156) (EIC: BBE);
M1038A1 (2320-01-371-9578) (EIC: BBP); Truck, Utility: Heavy Variant, 4x4, M1097
(2320-01-346-9317) (EIC: BBM); M1097A1 (2320-01-371-9583) (EIC: BBU); M1097A2
(2320-01-380-8604) (EIC: BB6); M1123 (2320-01-445-9593) (EIC: B6G); Truck, Utility:
Tow Carrier, Armored, 1-1/4 ton, 4x4, M966 (2320-01-107-7153) (EIC: BBC); M966A1
(2320-01-372-3932) (EIC: BBX); M1121 (2320-01-956-1282) (EIC: B6H); Truck, Utility:
Tow Carrier, Armored, 1-1/4 ton, 4x4, w/Winch, M1036 (2320-01-107-7154) (EIC: BBH);
Truck, Utility: Tow Carrier, w/Supplemental Armor, 1-1/4 ton, 4x4, w/ Winch, M1045 (2320-
01-146-7191); M1045A1 (2320-01-371-9580) (EIC; BBR); M1045A2 (2320-01-380-
8229)EIC; BB5); Truck, Utility: Tow Carrier, w/Supplemental Armor, 1-1/4 ton, 4x4,
w/Winch, M1046 (2320-01-146-7188; M1046A1 (2320-01-371-9582) (EIC: BBT); Truck,
Utility: Armament Carrier, Armored, 1-1/4 ton, 4x4, M1025 (2320-01-128-9551) (EIC:
BBF); M1025A1 (2320-01-371-9584) (EIC: BBV); M1025A2 (2320-01-380-8233) (EIC:
BB3); Truck, Utility: Armament Carrier, Armored, 1-1/4 ton, 4x4, w/Winch, M1026 (2320-
01-128-9552) (EIC: BBG); M1026A1 (2320-01-371-9579) (EIC: BBQ); Truck, Utility:
Armament Carrier, w/Supplemental Armor, 1-1/4 ton, 4x4, M1043 (2320-01-146-7190);
M1043A1 (2320-01-372-3933) (EIC: BBY); M1043A2 (2320-01-380-8213) (EIC: BB4);
Truck, Utility: Armament Carrier, w/Supplemental Armor, 1-1/4 ton, 4x4, w/Winch, M1044
(2320-01-146-7189); M1044A1 (2320-01-371-9581) (EIC: BBS); Truck, Utility: S250 Shelter
Carrier, 4x4, M1037 (2320-01-146-7193) (EIC: BBK); Truck, Utility: S250 Shelter Carrier,
4x4, w/Winch, M1042 (2320-01-146-7187); Truck, Ambulance, 2-litter, Armored, 4x4, M996
(2310-01-111-2275) (EIC: BBB); M996A1 (2310-01-372-3935) (EIC: BB2); Truck,
Ambulance, 4-litter, Armored, 4x4, M997 (2310-01-111-2274) (EIC: BBA); M997A1 (2310-
01-372-3934) (EIC: BBZ); M997A2 (2310-01-380-8225) (EIC-BB8); Truck, Ambulance, 2-
litter, Soft Top, 4x4, M1035 (2310-01-146-7194): M1035A1 (2310-01-371-9585) (EIC:
BBW); M1035A2 (2310-01-380-8290 (EIC: BB9), 31 January 1996.
TM 9-2330-213-14&P, Operator’s, Unit, Direct Support, and General Support Maintenance Manual
(Including Repair Parts and Special Tools Lists) for Trailer, Chassis: 1 1/2-ton, 2-Wheel,
M103A1 (NSN 2330-00-835-8629), M103A3 (NSN 2330-00-141-8052); Trailer, Cargo: 1
1/2-ton, 2-Wheel, M105A1 (NSN 2330-00-835-8631), M105A2 (NSN 2330-00-141-8050),
M105A2C (NSN 2330-00-542-5689); Trailer, Tank, Water: 1 1/2-ton, 2-Wheel, 400-gallon,
M107A1 (NSN 2330-00-835-8633), M107A2 NSN 2330-00-141-8049), M107A2C (NSN
2330-00-542-5688); Trailer, Van, Shop: Folding Sides, 1 1/2-ton, 2-Wheel, M448 (NSN
2300-00-631-5692). 9 October 1990.
TM 9-6115-659-13&P, Operator, Unit, and Direct Support Maintenance Manual, (Including Repair
Parts and Special Tools List) for Power Unit, Diesel Engine Driven, 1 Ton Trailer Mounted,
5 kW, 60 Hz, PU 797 (NSN 6115-01-332-0741); Power Unit, Diesel Engine Driven, High
Mobility Trailer Mounted, 5 kW, 60 Hz, PU 797A (NSN 6115-01-413-3820); Power Plant,
Diesel Engine Driven, 1 Ton Trailer Mounted, 5 kW, 60 Hz, AN/MJQ-35 (NSN 6115-01-313-
4216); Power Plant, Diesel Engine Driven, High Mobility Trailer Mounted, 5kW, 60 Hz,
AN/MJQ-35A (NSN 6115-01-414-9697); Power Plant, Diesel Engine Driven, 1 ½ Ton
Trailer Mounted, 5 kW, 60 Hz, AN/MJQ-36 (NSN 6115-01-313-4215). 1 June 2007.
TM 11-427, Barometers, ML-102-B, ML-102-D, ML-102-E, ML-102-F, ML-102-G, and ML-316/TM.
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AN/VRC-43 (5820-00-223-7415), AN/VRC-44 (5280-00-223-7417), AN/VRC-45 (5820-00-
223-7418), AN/VRC-46 (5280-00-223-7433), AN/VRC-47 (5820-00-223-7434), AN/VRC-48
(5820-00-223-7435), and AN/VRC-49 (5820-00-223-7437); (Used Without Intercom
Systems). 15 January 1986.
TM 11-5820-401-10-2, Operator's Manual for Radio Sets AN/VRC-12 (NSN 5820-00-223-7412)
(EIC: GCC), AN/VRC-43 (5820-00-223-7415) (EIC: GCD), AN/VRC-44 (5280-00-223-7417)
(EIC: GCE), AN/VRC-45 (5820-00-223-7418) (EIC), AN/VRC-46 (5280-00-223-7433) (EIC:
GCG), AN/VRC-47 (5820-00-223-7434) (EIC:GCH), AN/VRC-48 (5820-00-223-7435)
(EIC:GCH), and AN/VRC-49 (5820-00-223-7437) (EIC: GCK); (Used Without Intercom
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TM 11-5820-477-12, Operator’s and Organizational Maintenance Manual Radio Set Control Groups,
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TM 11-5820-890-10-1, Operator’s Manual for SINCGARS Ground Combat Net Radio, ICOM;
Manpack Radio; AN/PRC-119A (NSN 5820-01-267-9482) (EIC: L2Q); Short Range Vehiclar
Radio, AN/VRC-87A (NSN 5820-01-267-9480) (EIC: L22); Short Range Vehicular Radio
with Single Radio Mount, AN/VRC-87C (NSN 5820-01-304-2045) (EIC: GDC); Short Range
Vehicular Radio with Dismount, AN/VRC-88A (NSN 5820-01-267-9481) (EIC: L23); Short
Range Vehicular Radio with Dismount and Single Radio Mount, AN/VRC-88C (NSN 5820-
01-304-2044) (EIC: GDD); Short Range/Long Range Vehicular Radio, AN/VRC-89A (NSN
5820-01-267-9479) (EIC: L24); Long Range Vehicular Radio, AN/VRC-90A (NSN 5820-01-
268-5105) (EIC: L25); Short Range/Long Range Vehicular radio with Dismount, AN/VRC-
91A (NSN 5820-01-267-9478) (EIC: L26); Long Range/Long Range Vehicular Radio,
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TM 11-6625-3052-14, Operator’s, Unit, Direct Support and General Support Maintenance Manual
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TM 11-6625-3234-12, Operator’s and Unit Maintenance Manual for Oscilloscope OS-288/G (NSN
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TM 11-6625-3250-12, Operator’s and Unit Maintenance Manual for Spectrum Analyzer AN/USM-
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TM 11-6660-283-13, Operator's, Unit and Direct Support Maintenance Manual for Meteorological
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TM 11-6660-284-23-1, Unit and Direct Support Manual for Antenna AS-4335/TMQ-41 (NSN 5985-
01-381-5668) (EIC: NA). 1 September 1995.
TM 11-6660-284-23-2, Unit and Direct Support Maintenance Manual for Antenna AS-4335/ TMQ-41
(NSN 5985-01-381-5668) (EIC: N/A). 1 September 1995.
TM 11-6660-286-10, Operator’s Manual for Receiving Set, Radiosonde AN/UMQ-16 (NSN 6660-01-
345-4092) (EIC: N/A) and Antenna AS-4335/TMQ-41 (5985-01-381-5668) (EIC: N/A).
1 September 1995.
TM 11-6660-286-23-1, Unit and Direct Support Maintenance Manual for Receiving Set, Radiosonde,
AN/UMQ-16 (NSN 6660-01-345-4092) (EIC: N/A). 1 September 1995.
TM 11-6660-286-23-2, Unit and Direct Support Maintenance Manual for Receiving Set, Radiosonde,
AN/UMQ-16 (NSN 6660-01-345-4092) (EIC: N/A). 1 February 1996.
TM 11-6660-286-23-3, Unit and Direct Support Maintenance Manual for Receiving Set, Radiosonde,
AN/UMQ-16 (NSN 6660-01-345-4092) (EIC: N/A). 1 February 1996.
TM 11-7021-217-12&P, Operator’s and Unit Maintenance Manual Including Repair Parts and
Special Tools List for Computer, Digital CP-2112. 1 February 1994.
TM 11-7035-229-13, Operator’s, Unit and Direct Support Maintenance Manual for Printer, Ink Jet.
1 February 1996.
(NSN 5895-01-347-8723) (EIC: N/A) TCIM 1 Assembly, P/N 50787 (NSN 5895-01-411-4931)
(EIC: N/A) TCIM 2 ASSEMBLY, P/N 52605 (NSN 5895-01-443-3457) (EIC: N/A). 1 June
2000.
TM 11-6660-293-12&P, Operator’s and Unit Maintenance Manual Including Repair Parts and
Special Tools List for Meteorological Measuring Set Profiler AN/TMQ-52 (NSN 6660-01-
479-1962) (EIC: N/A). 15 September 2006.
TM 11-6660-296-12&P, Operator’s and Unit Maintenance Manual, Including Repair Parts and
Special Tools List for Meteorological Station, Semiautomatic AN/TMQ-55 (NSN: 6660-01-
522-5141) (EIC: N/A). 15 November 2005.
TM 11-7010-321-12&P, Operator’s and Unit Maintenance Manual (Including Repair Parts and
Special Tools Lists) for Tactical Command Systems Used in S-832/G Rigid Wall Shelter
(RWS) Standardized Integrated Command Post System (SICPS). 15 January 2001.
TM 11-7025-328-12&P, Operator’s and Unit Maintenance Manual Including Repair Parts and
Special Tools List for Interface Unit, Automatic Data Processing CA-67/U (NSN 7025-01-
384-0292) (EIC: N/A) and Interface Unit, Automatic Data Processing Star Dynamic Model
2936C (7025-01-348-0124) (EIC: N/A). 1 January 1996.
Commercial Publications
523-0778858, Precision Lightweight GPS Receiver PLGR II Precise Positioning Service (PPS).
1 April 1998.
Field Guide for the Tactical 1.0 Meter Very Small Aperture Terminal (T-VSAT) Antenna. 21 August,
2000.
LLP 2 HP User’s Guide. 2002.
M210360en-A, MW22M Marwin III Sounding Processor Installation Manual. December 2002.
M210372en-A, MMS–P System with MW22M Marwin III User’s Guide. December 2002.
RECOMMENDED READINGS
These readings contain relevant supplemental information
American Meteorological Society, Glossary of Meteorology, AMS, Boston, MA, 1970.
AR 25-400-2, The Army Records Information Management System (ARIMS). 10 February 2007.
AR 380-40, Policy for Safeguarding and Controlling Communications Security (COMSEC) Material.
30 June 2000.
ARTEP 6-102-MTP, Mission Training Plan for Corps Artillery, Division Artillery, and Field Artillery
Brigade Command and Staff Group and Headquarters, and Headquarters Battery. 1 April
2000.
ARTEP 6-115-MTP, Mission Training Plan for Field Artillery Cannon Battalion Command and Staff
Section, Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, and Service Battery. 1, April, 2000.
DA Form 2028, Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms.
J message, observations
checking procedures, A-49 area, 4-4
JVMF messages, A-9 through request procedures, C-1 regional, 4-4
A14 PIBAL, 4-5 through 4-7
message, FATDS
identification number, A-4 occluded front, 3-10
K priority, A2
segment, A-3 octant, A-16
Kelvin (K), 3-2 type, A-2
offense
L messages, standard MET support in, 1-12
launching reel, 7-17 ballistic MET, A-18 operations, 1-12
computer MET, A-14 degraded mode, 4-4 through
leapfrog technique, 1-11 fallout MET, A-37 4-5
sound ranging MET, A-26
lift, 7-8 target acquisition MET, A-23 organizational maintenance, 8-
target area MET 3
limited surface observation, A- WMO MET, A-27
40 through A-49
P
Meteorology, 3-11
logistic planning, 8-1
pilot balloon (PIBAL), 4-5
met plan, 1-14, D1 through D2
Official:
JOYCE E. MORROW
Administrative Assistant to the
Secretary of the Army
0727701
DISTRIBUTION:
Active Army, Army National Guard, and U.S. Army Reserve: To be distributed in accordance with the
initial distribution number 110767 required for FM 3-09.15
PCN: 143 000032 00 PIN: 084403-000