Have you ever heard “Fire for Effect”? Here’s a good example, from The Whiteboard comic…
What is Fire for Effect? It means that after corrections, the target area is satisfactory, and to start firing on the targeted area.
According to NATO doctrine:
1. Fire which is delivered after the mean point of impact or burst is within the desired distance of the target or adjusting/ranging point.
2. Term in a call for fire to indicate the adjustment/ranging is satisfactory and fire for effect is desired.
According to United States Department of Defense:
That volume of fires delivered on a target to achieve the desired effect. Also called FFE.
The game Squad Leader gives a very good demonstration of the difference between spotting rounds, harassing fire and fire for effect. First the Forward Observer (FO) establishes contact with the artillery unit. Then a spotting round is called for. Spotting rounds are then “walked” on to the target. When the spotting round is either on the target or the necessary adjustment is small enough to be within allowable limits, the FO calls for a Fire Mission, often with the phrase, “Fire for Effect.” If the first fire mission does not reduce the position or change the tactical situation sufficiently, other fire missions may be called for.