What is a 'fire mission'?

A 'fire mission' specifically refers to an order issued to fire a designated number of rounds at a predetermined target. This is a critical function in artillery operations, as it involves coordination and precise execution to ensure that artillery fire is effective and that it meets the operational goals set by commanders. This includes utilizing target coordinates, calculating shell trajectory, and determining the necessary adjustments based on the environment and tactical situation.

In the context of artillery, correctly understanding what constitutes a fire mission is essential for crew members as it directly impacts mission success. Other options may relate to safety procedures, crew drills, or reporting actions after firing, but they do not encapsulate the operational order required for conducting artillery fire, which is the essence of a fire mission.