AT4 LP

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPSAdvanced Infantry Training School

School of InfantryTraining Command

MCB Camp Lejeune, NC 28542-0161

Direct The Employment of an AT-4

ISLC0402

LESSON PLAN

Infantry Squad Leader Course

12/19/2001

_________________

Chief Instructor

_________________Date

LESSON TITLE: Direct The Employment of an AT-4TOTAL LESSON TIME: 2.50REFERENCES: FMFM 2-11 Anti-armor Operations pages 3-12 to 3-16INSTRUCTOR PREPARATION: 1. Ensure that the class commander passes out the (IRF's).2. Ensure that the computer is in proper working order.3. Ensure that the Monitor seat has a copy of the trainingschedule, copies of the detailed outline and student outline.4. Using the computer, bring up the presentation in power point.5. Have students open their student outline in preparation forthe next period of instruction. 6. Ensure that the students have their inert AT-4’sSAFETY PRECAUTIONS:

1. Ensure that the power cord for the computer is not a safety hazard.

INTRODUCTION

LECTURE (5 MIN)

(SUPPORTING PAPER 1 ON)

1. GAIN ATTENTION: First introduced into modern warfare during World War I were tanks. They were very effective at that time. However, tanks are not as safe as they once were. Today's infantry units have, at the battalion level, the Dragon, and at company level we have the 0300 infantryman and a weapon made specifically for him, the AT-4. The benefit of this period of instruction to you is that upon completion you will have the knowledge to engage targets with the AT-4.

2. OVERVIEW: Good morning/afternoon class, I am _____ and I will be the Primary Instructor for the next period of instruction on Direct The Employment of an AT-4. The purpose of this period of instruction is to teach you how to employ the AT-4 in a defensive or offensive environment. I will accomplish this by covering how to prepare the launcher for firing, how to determine vehicle speed, employment considerations, and misfire procedures. This lesson relates to anti mechanized operations.

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3. LEARNING OBJECTIVES .

a. TERMINAL LEARNING OBJECTIVE.

(1) With the aid of the reference, given an operation order, plan for an AT-4 engagement, per FMFM 2-11. (0311.04.06)

b. ENABLING LEARNING OBJECTIVES.

(1) Without the aid of the reference, given a list of choices, select which is NOT an AT-4 method of engagement, per FMFM 2-11 pages 3-12 to 3-15. (0311.04.06a)

(2) Without the aid of the reference, given a list of definitions, state in writing the AT-4 engagement safety considerations, per FMFM 2-11 pages 3-15 to 3-16. (0311.04.06b)

4. METHOD/MEDIA: This class will be taught by lecture and the use of the computer and computer generated graphics. The practical application portion will be conducted during a live fire range and during the PEX/FEX. Those of you with IRF’s set them aside and fill them out at the end of this class.

5. EVALUATION: You will be evaluated in the form of a written examination and a performance evaluation. The performance evaluation will be conducted during the live fire range, during the PEX and the FEX.

TRANSITION: Now that we have read the TLO and ELOs and you know how you will be evaluated, when you will be evaluated, are their

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INSTRUCTOR NOTE

Read the learning objective(s) aloud and explain the objectives to the student. Check for understanding, as necessary.

INSTRUCTOR NOTE:

Explain to the students the procedure for completing the Instructional Rating Forms (IFR). Inform students that the IFRs will not be collected until the entire period of instruction, including the associated examination, is completed.

any questions? If there are no questions, we will begin discussing the methods of engagement.

BODY (2HRS 20MIN) LECTURE

(SUPPORTING PAPER 1 OFF)(SUPPORTING PAPER 2 ON)

1. METHODS OF ENGAGEMENT. (0311.04.06a)

a. Single Firing. In this method, one man with only one shot engages the target. This method should only be used at 200 meters or less because getting a hit at further ranges using visual range determination is very difficult. Then range has been accurately determined, you can trust a shot out to 300 meters. This is a valid method because there will be times when only one AT-4 is in a position to take a shot at a target.


INSTRUCTOR NOTE: REFER TO SINGLE FIRING DIAGRAM.


b. Sequence Firing. In sequence, firing the target isengaged by one shooter that has two or more AT-4’s. He prepares both AT-4’s before firing. After his first shot, he corrects his point of aim for the second shot.


INSTRUCTOR NOTE: REFER TO SEQUENCE FIRING DIAGRAM.


c. Pair Firing. In pair firing, two or more shooters have two or more AT-4’s each to engage a single target. Each shooter prepares several AT-4’s. The first gunner sees the target, identified it, and announces the estimated range and the lead used. Example: BMP, one-five zero meters, fast; and fires. The second shooter observes the firing and announces a revised

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estimate of range and lead and fires. They continue until they get a hit. Once the target is hit, both shooters on command will engage the target until it’s destroyed. This method is better because it’s a faster change of information.(SUPPORTING PAPER 6 OFF)(SUPPORTING PAPER 7 ON)

d. Volley Firing. In volley firing, a single target is engaged by more than one shooter making the same sight data to fire one or more AT-4’s. A fire command is given to direct the fire. This is used when the range is known. This method will increase the probability of a kill. A new command must be given for each round fire.


e. Combination Firing. Any combination can be used when firing the AT-4. You could use sequence or pair firing to find the range, and then use volleys firing to destroy the target.

QUESTION: What range should you use in the single fire engagement?

ANSWER: Single fire engagement method should only be used at 200 meters or less because getting a hit at further ranges using visual range determination is very difficult

QUESTION: When a single target is engaged by more than one shooter making the same sight data to fire one or more AT-4’s.

ANSWER: Volley firing.

TRANSITION: We have just covered the methods of engagements for the AT4. At this time if there no more questions, we will move on and the next item we will discuss is armor vulnerability.


2. ARMOR VULNERABILITY.

Armor usually has the heaviest armor on it is front slopes. By comparison, the shooter should try for a hit on the top, rear, sides, or bottom. The weakest point with the most mass is the side. There are three types of kills.

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a. Mobility Kill. The vehicle has stopped moving because a track or wheel has been blown off or it has taken a hit in the engine. The vehicl3e can’t move, but it can still shoot.


b. Fire Power Kill. This is when the main gun can’t fire because of a hit in the turret. The vehicle can still move, but can’t shoot.

c. Catastrophic Kill. The vehicle is completely destroyed. To do this, you should be prepared to fire a second and maybe a third shot.


d. An armored vehicle without infantry is easy pray, because when buttoned up, it’s field of vision is very limited. This provides an opportunity to get an armor-killer team within kill range.

e. Any way you can get the vehicle to slow down, stop or bypass obstacles you can achieve a first round hit. Always be ready to fire a second or third shot to make sure you get a catastrophic kill.

QUESTION: Where is the weakest point with the most mass located?

ANSWER: On the side.

QUESTION: When the main gun can’t fire because of a hit in the turret.

ANSWER: Fire Power Kill

TRANSITION: We have just covered armor vulnerability. If there are no questions, then lets look at tactical considerations in the offense.


3. TACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS IN THE OFFENSE.

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In the attack, AT-4’s should be available to influence the action where necessary. Due to its short range, the AT-4 should be spread throughout the maneuver element. The AT-4 is primarily used against light vehicles, bunkers, or crew served weapon positions.

TRANSITION: That concluded the section on considerations in the offense. If there are no questions, we will now talk about tactical considerations in the defense.


4. TACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS IN THE DEFENSE.

a. Always consider the back-blast when assigning and constructing fighting positions. Provide two or more AT-4’s to each position that will use them. You want to position them to achieve flank shots on the avenues of approach. The traditional approach of seeking flank shots is a method by which personnel position antiarmor weapons systems on the flanks of the assaulting enemy force and it is not always feasible. MAW and LAW systems require flank shots to be effective, since their chemical energy warheads are significantly degraded by composite and or reactive armor. Ideally the disposition of HAW systems would provide flank shots. Also, consider dispersing them to get oblique fire possibilities and mutual support.

b. Remember, you can use the AT-4 at night under illumination. If you can’t get indirect fire illumination, you always have the M203 star parachute. The illumination should be placed above and slightly in front of the target.

QUESTION: During offensive action, where should the AT4’s be located?

ANSWER: Spread throughout the maneuver element.

QUESTION: Employing the AT4 in a defensive environment, what is the first thing I want to consider?

ANSWER: Always consider the back-blast when assigning and constructing fighting positions for the AT4.

TRANSITION: We have just covered the tactical considerations in the defense. If there are no questions then now we will discuss special operations.

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5. SPECIAL OPERATIONS.

a. The AT-4, because of its lightweight is ideal for combat patrols, ambushes, and armor-killer teams. Raiding parties can use it against command post, communication installations, and supply dumps.

b. Armor Killer Teams . Armor-killer teams in both theoffense and defense can use the AT-4. These teams are generally employed during periods of limited visibility and in areas where cover, concealment, and withdrawal routes are readily available.


The team as a minimum should have:

(1) Leader

(2) Security Element

(3) Anti-armor killer element. Four men should do the attack. The best method for shooting in this situation is the volley method of fire. It provides high volume fire a greater probability of hits and target destruction.

QUESTION: Why are the AT4’s so ideal for the offensive action?

ANSWER: It is lightweight is ideal for combat patrols, ambushes, armor-killer teams and raiding parties.

TRANSITION: We have just covered the special operations. If there are no questions we will now discuss the general characteristics.


6. GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS.

a. The launcher and rocket, 84mm, M136 HEAT, is a lightweight, self-contained, anti-armor weapon. It consists of a free flight, fin stabilized rocket packed in an expendable

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launcher. It's man portable and fired from the right shoulder only. It's issued as a round of ammunition and the launcher serves as a watertight container for transport and storage.


b. The AT4 is used in addition to the individual weapon. It supplements other anti-armor weapons and provides anti-armor capability for the rifle squad. It can also be used against bunkers and other hard positions. It can be used in any weather conditions.


c. Technical Data.

(1) Weight: overall - 6.8 kilograms, 15 pounds rocket - 1.8 kilograms, 4 pounds

(2) Caliber: 84mm

(3) Length: 1020mm, 40 inches

(4) Muzzle Velocity: 290 meters per second, 950 feet per second

(5) Operating Temperature Range: -40 degrees C to 60 degrees C (-40 degrees F to 140 degrees F)

(6) Range: Max. Range-2100metersMax. Effective range-300 metersMinimum arming range-10 meters (33ft)Minimum target engagement range training, 30 meters

QUESTION: What is the overall weight of the AT4?

ANSWER: 15 pounds

QUESTION: What is the muzzle velocity of the AT4?

ANSWER: 290 meters per second, 950 feet per second

TRANSITION: We have just covered the technical data. If there are no questions we will now discuss the components of the AT4.

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7. COMPONENTS.

a. Transport Safety Pin . Provides safety for transportation. It’s attached to the launcher by a lanyard. It blocks the movement of the firing rod and prevents it from striking the percussion cap.

b. Cocking Lever . Cocks firing mechanism.

c. Fire Through Muzzle Cover . It keeps out moistureIn addition, prevents foreign objects from entering the muzzle.


d. Color Code Band . Color of the band indicates thetype of rocket. A black band is HE anti-tank. A gold band is a tracer trainer, and a blue band is a field-handling trainer.

e. Sights . The front sight has a sight blade with a center post and a right and left lead post. The rear sight has a sight blade, range setting knob, range indicator, 2mm peephole and a 7mm peephole.

f. Venturi . It protects the weapon from damage if itis dropped and it directs the flow of the back blast.


g. Red Safety Catch . It must be fully depressed and held before firing. It provides the final safety.

h. Red Trigger Button . It fires the weapon.

i. Shoulder Stop . It helps stabilize the launcher on the shoulder.

j. Carrying Sling . Provides a means to carry the launcher.


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k. Firing Mechanism. It includes the trigger button, enclosed firing rod with spring and the three safety devices.

QUESTION: The color of this band indicates the type of rocket?

ANSWER: Color Code Band

QUESTION: This item blocks the movement of the firing rod and prevents it from striking the percussion cap?

ANSWER: Transport Safety Pin

TRANSITION: We have just covered the components of the AT4. If there are no questions we will move on and discuss the safety Devices found on the AT4.


8. SAFETY DEVICES.

a. The transport safety pin when in place, prevents the firing pin from moving and keeps it from hitting the percussion cap.

b. The cocking lever is attached to the firing rod. When in the safe position, it prevents the rod from moving to the rear. When pushed forward and right, it allows the rod to go to the rear when the trigger is pushed.


c. The red safety catch is the final safety, and isattached to a rod that goes down the firing mechanism and blocks the rearward motion of the firing rod. When you push the catch to the left and hold it there, the block is removed, and the weapon will fire.

TRANSITION: We have just covered the safety devices found on the AT4. If there are no questions we will now discuss Serviceability inspection.


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9. INSPECTION FOR SERVICEABILITY.

The AT-4 is issued as a round of ammunition and is completely sealed, so you can only check the external components. Here is what you check.

a. The transport safety pin should be in place and fully inserted. The lanyard is attached.

b. The cocking lever is in the safe position and folded down.

c. The fire through muzzle should be intact. If it is torn cut it away and gently shake out any foreign objects.

d. The launcher has a black and yellow color code band.


e. The sights work. Pop them up and see if they're damaged.

f. That the red safety catch does not move when depressed.

g. That the rear circular Plexiglas seals is not broken.

h. That the shoulder stop is working.

i. That the carrying sling is not frayed or torn.

j. That the launcher body has no cracks, dents, or bulges.

QUESTION: What function does the transport safety pin provide?

ANSWER: When in place, prevents the firing pin from moving and keeps it from hitting the percussion cap.

QUESTION: Should the red safety catch move when depressed?

ANSWER: No, the red safety catch should not move.

TRANSITION: We have just discussed how to inspect for serviceability? If there are no questions we will now move on and talk about preparing and firing the AT-4.

(SUPPORTING PAPER 26 OFF)

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(SUPPORTING PAPER 27 ON)

10. PREPARING AND FIRING THE AT-4.

Here is how to set up one AT-4 for firing.

a. Remove the launcher from the carrying position and cradle it in the left arm.

b. Remove the transport safety pin. Make sure the lanyard is attached. You may need to reinsert it.

c. Place the launcher on the right shoulder.

d. Unsnap and unfold the shoulder stop.

INSTRUCTOR NOTE: For added stability, grasp the carrying sling near the muzzle with the left hand and pull back on the carrying sling until the shoulder stop is pressed against the right shoulder.


e. Release the sights; press down and slide front sight cover to the rear and the rear sight cover to the front. The sights will pop up.

f. Cock the launcher by unfolding the cocking lever with the right hand. Put the thumb under the lever and support your other fingers in front of the firing mechanism. Push the lever forward, to the right and let it slide back. Do not refold the cocking lever.

g. Before pressing the shoulder stop back; check your back blast area. Grasp the sling near the muzzle with your left hand and pull back.

h. Set the sights. I will cover this later in this class.


i. Using your right index finger press the red safety catch to the left and hold it down.

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j. Get a good sight picture. Place right eye 2.5 to 3 inches from rear sight.

k. Fire the launcher by pressing the trigger button with the right thumb and pressing straightforward in a steady smooth movement.


l. If for some reason, you don’t want to shoot, you can return the launcher to it is carrying position by doing the following:

(1) Release the red safety catch.

(2) Return the cocking lever to the safe position and fold the lever down.


(3) Remove the launcher from your shoulder and keep it down range.

(4) Re-insert the transport safety pin.

(5) Make sure rear sight is set at 200 meters and close up both sights.

(6) Refold the shoulder stop. Return to carry position with muzzle down.

QUESTION: What should you check before pressing the shoulder stop back?

ANSWER: Check your back blast area.

TRANSITION: We have just covered preparing the AT-4 for firing. If there are no questions, lets look at how to determine speed. (SUPPORTING PAPER 31 OFF)(SUPPORTING PAPER 32 ON)

11. DETERMINING SPEED.

To accurately engage armored targets, which are usually in motion, the gunner's ability to determine speed is just as

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important as the range. Constant practice will help acquire this skill. Here is one method for determining the speed of a target:

(SUPPORTING SLIDE 32 OFF)(SUPPORTING SLIDE 33 ON)

a. Estimate how far the vehicle moves in one second:

(1) Count one thousand one.

(2) Start when the front end of the vehicle passes a chosen object.

(3) If less than half the vehicle passes the object, estimate as slow. If more than half the vehicle passes the object estimate as fast.

b. Estimate vehicle speed as:

(1) Slow for all oblique vehicles moving 10 mph or less.

(2) Fast for flank vehicles moving faster than 10 mph.

TRANSITION: This completes this section on determining speed. If there are no questions we will now discuss the rear sight.


12. THE REAR SIGHT. (3 MIN)

a. When the sight pops up it is on 200 meters. Each click of range is 50 meters. Turning the range knob forward moves the range up. Moving it to the rear bring the range down. Each click of range is 50 meters. The scale goes from 100 to 500 meters. To return the sight to carrying position, it must be at 200 meters again.

(SUPPORTING SLIDE 34 OFF)(SUPPORTING SLIDE 35 ON)

b. Peephole on the rear sight. The 2mm peephole, is used under normal light conditions, is drilled in the leaf that covers the 7mm peephole, which is used under limited visibility conditions.

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QUESTION: Turning the range knob forward moves the range?

ANSWER: Up

QUESTION: What is the range scale of the rear sight?

ANSWER: The scale goes from 100 to 500 meters.

TRANSITION: We have just covered the rear sight. If there are no questions we will now discuss the firing positions.


15. FIRING POSITIONS.

When firing the AT-4, you may use one of four positions. The positions vary bit because of the differences in the shooter's body. Any position may be used for stationary targets. The best positions for moving targets are the kneeling and standing because of the movement necessary when tracking.

a. Standing position. Place the launcher about shoulder level pointed at the target and step under it. With your feet a comfortable distance apart, balance your body with the hips level. Your left hand holds the launcher. Both elbows are tucked in. When tracking, rotate at the hips; do not move your feet. Use some support if possible.

(SUPPORTING PAPER 36 OFF)(SUPPORTING PAPER 37 OFF)

b. Kneeling Position. The kneeling position can be done two ways. One way is to sit back on your right foot. The other way is to keep your right thigh vertical. The second way is better for moving targets. Your left foot should be pointed at the target.

c. Sitting Position. You can shoot cross leg or open leg position for the sitting position. Just remember to keep the launcher pointed down range when getting into the position.


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d. Prone Position. To get into this position, lay the launcher on the deck pointed at the target. Lie on your stomach at least a 90-degree angle to the launcher to keep clear of the back blast. The launcher is placed on your right shoulder with elbows beneath it. This is the least stable position.

QUESTION: How many firing positions are there for the AT4?

ANSWER: Four, standing, kneeling, sitting and prone.

QUESTION: What are the best positions for engaging a moving target?

ANSWER: The best positions for moving targets are the kneeling and standing

TRANSITION: This concludes the firing positions. If there are no questions then we will move on and talk about the misfire procedures.


16. MISFIRE PROCEDURES.

Since training and combat are a bit different, there are two methods to handle a misfire.

a. Training.

(1) Shout "Misfire".

(2) Maintain original sight picture.

(3) release the red safety catch.

(4) Re-cock the cocking lever. Check the back-blast area and try to fire again.

(5) If it fails again, repeat steps one through four. If it fails a third time, release the red safety catch and put the cocking lever in the safe position.

(6) Take the launcher off your shoulder keeping the muzzle toward your target.

(7) Reinsert the transport safety pin.

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(8) Wait two minutes, then carefully lay the faulty launcher on the ground, muzzle toward your target.

(9) Dispose of, in accordance with your unit SOP.


b. Combat.

(1) Immediately recheck the cocking lever. Check the back blast area, aim, fully depress the red safety catch, and press the red trigger button.

(2) If the launcher still does not fire, maintain your position and return the cocking lever to the safe position. Remove the launcher from your shoulder and reinsert the transport safety pin. Lay the launcher aside, pointing at the target. Immediately use another launcher to engage the target.

QUESTION: After performing immediate action twice and the launcher will not fire, how long must you wait before taking action?

ANSWER: You have to wait two minutes and then you will lay the launcher down pointed down range.

QUESTION: If the launcher fails to fire, what must be reinserted?

ANSWER: Transport safety pin

TRANSITION: We have just covered the misfire procedures? If there are no questions we will now look at engagement area safety considerations.


17. ENGAGEMENT AREA SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS. (0311.04.06B)

a. Back blast Area. In training, the entire 65 meters should be clear when shooting. The shooter should check before he fires.

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(1) Danger zone A: This zone extends 5 meters to the rear of the launcher. It must be clear of all obstacles.

(2) Danger zone B: This zone extends an additional 60 meters beyond zone A in a 90 degree fan from the rear of the launcher. In this zone, danger exists from heat and flying debris.

b. Range firing Precautions. Launcher should be covered to keep them out of the sun for a long period. When it is below freezing, double all back blast dimensions and shooters should wear a protective mask.


c. Firing from Enclosures (combat only). These conditions must be met before you shoot from an enclosure:

(1) Enclosure dimensions.

(a) Ceiling height: 7’

(b) Room size: 15’ x 12’

(c) Ventilation to rear: 20 square feet

(d) Muzzle clearance from building: 6”


INSTRUCTOR NOTE: An open door 3 feet wide by 7 feet high will provide adequate ventilation.

(2) The building should have strong walls, large dimensions, lack of debris, and plenty of openings.

(3) The best place to be when someone is firing inside is right next to the launcher. Do not stand in corners or against a wall. Remember, if you are in a building firing an AT-4, you probably will get hurt some way.

QUESTION: During training how large should the back blast area be?

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ANSWER: 65 meters

QUESTION: What are the considerations when firing inside a building?

ANSWER: The building should have strong walls, large rooms, lack of debris, and plenty of openings.

TRANSITION: That concludes the portion on engagement area safety considerations. If there are no more questions then we will move on and take a look at methods of destruction.


18. METHODS OF DESTRUCTION.

There are three methods to use if destruction is called for by the CO.

a. Firing. This is the quickest and easiest way to dispose of a small quantity of AT-4’s.

b. Burning. Place combustible material like wood, paper, or rags around the AT-4 and soak them with gas or oil. Ignite the gas and take cover because the round can go off at any time in any direction.

c. Demolition. Prepare a ¼ pound charge and tape it to the rear of the AT-4 just in front of the rear venturi. Dual prime the charge, take cover, and detonate it. Never try to smash or drive over the AT-4 with a vehicle.

QUESTION: What is the quickest and easiest way to dispose of a small quantity of AT-4’s?

ANSWER: Firing the launcher.

TRANSITION: At this time, this concludes this portion on the methods of destruction. Are their any questions pertaining to this portion or any other portion of this period of instruction?


PRACTICAL APPLICATION

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1. NONE

OPPORTUNITY FOR QUESTIONS: (5 MIN)

1. Questions from the class.

2. Questions to the class.

Question: How do you lead a fast moving vehicle?

ANSWER: Place opposite lead post center mass on vehicle.

Question: When firing the AT-4, the gunner noticed that less than half the vehicle passed the chosen object in one second, the gunner then estimates the vehicle's speed as?

ANSWER: Slow

SUMMARY:

During this period of instruction we covered the steps to prepare the launcher for firing, the procedures for determining speed, how to lead both fast moving and slow moving vehicles, concept of employment and function check with the AT-4 tracer trainer. Please respond to the questions or make comments on your Instructional Rating Forms, as appropriate. Once you have completed the forms, hand them into the class commander. The remaining of you may take a five-minute break.

(SUPPORTING PAPER 45 OFF)

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INSTRUCTOR NOTE

Provide the students with instructions regarding what to do and where to form in preparation for the next training event.

Documents

AT4 LP