Who is responsible for ensuring that weapon systems in firing status are pointed towards the impact area at or less than 5° elevation?

The responsibility for ensuring that weapon systems in firing status are pointed towards the impact area at or less than a 5° elevation falls primarily to tank commanders. Tank commanders are specifically trained to oversee the operations of their vehicles and the weapons systems mounted on them. This duty includes maintaining safe firing practices to prevent unintended incidents, ensuring that the weapons are fired in a safe direction towards designated impact zones.

Tank commanders must also ensure that the crew is aware of the firing parameters and that the systems are operated within established safety guidelines. By controlling the elevation and direction of the weapon, tank commanders play a crucial role in both the effectiveness of the combat operation and the safety of personnel on the range as well as the surrounding areas. Their training emphasizes the importance of situational awareness and compliance with safety regulations, which is critical for maintaining a safe operational environment.