What defines a 'fire mission' in mortar operations?

• A. A directive for securing equipment
• B. A request to employ fire support at a specific target
• C. A schedule for maintenance of ammunition
• D. A plan for personnel assignments

Answer: (B)

A fire mission is the call to deliver indirect fire on a defined target. It signals the mortar team to employ fire support on that target and provides the essential details so the fire can be planned, adjusted, and executed, such as where the target is located, how many rounds are needed, and any specific fuse or targeting instructions. This initiates the fire direction process, moving from target identification to firing on the specified point with the intent to achieve the desired effect.

The other options describe actions unrelated to requesting fire support—for example, securing equipment, scheduling maintenance, or arranging personnel—so they don’t involve initiating or directing mortar fire.