Fort Sill’s Field Artillery non-commissioned officers (NCOs) played a critical role in evaluating next-generation battlefield technology as they provided hands-on feedback for the Army’s emerging Direct Support Fires Technology (DSFT) during the Cross Domain Fires Concept 26 Focused Warfighting Experiment. Their insights are set to shape tomorrow’s artillery forces.
Key Takeaways
- Fort Sill NCOs conducted operational trials of the Direct Support Fires Technology (DSFT).
- The experiment aimed to improve field artillery efficiency, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness.
- The initiative seeks to close warfighting gaps and optimize the Army’s future formations.
Advanced Training To Shape Artillery Tactics
Field Artillery NCOs at Fort Sill teamed up with Army scientists and engineers in the immersive experiment. Experts from the Combat Capabilities Development Command Aviation & Missile Center (DEVCOM AvMC) led sessions focused on proper reload procedures and real-world application of the DSFT. This not only familiarized soldiers with the new system but allowed developers to gather “boots on the ground” insights into ease of use and operational effectiveness.
How Direct Support Fires Technology Changes The Game
The DSFT project represents a significant step forward for artillery units. The program’s main goals include:
- Developing low-cost, easily reloadable rocket systems
- Creating compatible pods for the Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) munitions family
- Enhancing firepower mass and sustainability while minimizing logistics burdens
- Reducing overall cost per mission
By integrating soldier feedback early in the process, the Army aims to make the technology easier to deploy and rearm in combat conditions, improving survivability and flexibility.
The Larger Vision: Future Army Formations
The Cross Domain Fires Concept 26 experiment was coordinated by the Fires Future Capabilities Directorate at Fort Sill. As a distributed field exercise, it sought to simulate real-world conditions and validate new warfighting concepts. Results from these tests will inform Army leadership on how best to adapt force structures and technology for future operational needs.
The emphasis is on balancing lethal and non-lethal effects with new technology, ultimately shaping how American artillery tackles both close-quarters and long-range threats in evolving battlefields.
What’s Next For Direct Support Fires Technology?
Following the experiment, analysts will review NCO feedback, operational data, and logistical outcomes. Adjustments to the DSFT could pave the way for broader fielding and permanent adoption in Army units. This cycle of hands-on testing and rapid refinement is designed to keep the Army agile and prepared for tomorrow’s challenges.
Fort Sill’s NCOs have played a vital role in this innovation pipeline, ensuring that America’s warfighters remain at the forefront of artillery technology and tactics.
Sources
- Fort Sill NCOs test Direct Support Fires Technology during Army warfighting experiment, KSWO 7News.
- Fort Sill NCOs test Direct Support Fires Technology during Army warfighting experiment, KSWO 7News.
