Fire Support Coordination in the Ground Combat Element — MCWP 3-16

Marine Corps Warfighting Publication (MCWP) 3-16, Fire Support Coordination in the Ground Combat Element, is a framework for coordinating and employing supporting arms in consonance with maneuver elements. While this publication covers many aspects of fire support, it focuses on fire support coordination in the infantry division, regiment, and battalion. The doctrine applies across the full range of military operations—from humanitarian assistance to a major theater war.

Fire support doctrine is based on a common understanding of the nature of war and on our warfighting philosophy as described in Marine Corps Doctrinal Publication (MCDP) 1, Warfighting. This doctrine provides for fast, flexible, and decisive action in a complex environment characterized by friction, uncertainty, fluidity, and rapid change.

This publication is a field reference guide for commanders, their staffs, and fire support coordination personnel. It forms the basis for specific fire support coordination tactics, techniques, and procedures.