Which role is primarily responsible for coordinating fires in the FIST structure?

The Fire Support Officer (FSO) plays a crucial role in the Fire Support Team (FIST) structure, primarily being responsible for coordinating fires. This individual acts as the link between the maneuver units and the fire support elements, ensuring that artillery, air support, and other forms of indirect fire are effectively integrated into the overall tactical plan. The FSO assesses the situation, determines the best type of fire support needed, and coordinates its execution to maximize effectiveness and efficiency.

In this context, the FSO utilizes their knowledge of the battlefield, communication skills, and understanding of operational procedures to synchronize various fire support assets, allowing the team to respond rapidly and accurately to changing conditions on the ground. While other roles, such as the Team Leader and Forward Observer, contribute to fire support, they operate within a framework established and coordinated by the FSO. This makes the Fire Support Officer indispensable for successful fire mission execution.