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GROUND PYROTECHNIC SIGNALS
Ground pyrotechnic signals are classified as either handheld or ground smoke signals. They are used for signaling and illuminating missions.
5-1. DESCRIPTION
Ground pyrotechnic signals rise to a height of 180 to 250 meters before functioning, unlike the old smoke grenades that functioned either on impact or shortly after firing. There are two types of pyrotechnic signals:
a. Handheld Signals. These signals are issued in their own launching mechanism and are designed to reach a minimum height of 200 meters. This group of signals includes five-star clusters, single-star parachutes, and smoke parachutes. Handheld signals have replaced all rifle-projected pyrotechnic signals and chemical grenades
CAPABILITIES AND USES
Ground pyrotechnic signals are capable of signaling for communication or illuminating a small area.
a. Communication. Effective control of units on the battlefield depends largely on communication. Radio, telephone, voice, messenger, and arm-and-hand signals are communication means that may be ineffective in certain tactical situations. Pyrotechnic signals are used in such situations to supplement or to take the place of normal communication means. Pyrotechnic signals are prescribed at command level and are prearranged in accordance with SOPs.
b. Illumination. The illumination capabilities of pyrotechnic signals are somewhat limited because of their size. They can be used, however, to light a small area for short periods when two or more illuminating signals are used at the same time.
Star Parachutes. Star parachutes are also used for signaling and illuminating. They are issued in an expendable launcher that consists of a launching tube and a firing cap. These signals produce a single parachute-suspended illuminant star.
(1) Types. The current types of star parachutes include the M126A1 (red star), the M127A1 (white star), and the M195 (green star).
(2) Operation. These signals are fired in the same manner as the star clusters.
(3) Function. These signals function in the same manner as the star clusters.
(4) Firing data. The M126- and M127-series star parachutes rise to a height of 200 to 215 meters. The M126 burns for 50 seconds, and the M127 burns for 25 seconds. The average rate of descent for either is 2.1 meters each second. The signals can be seen for 50 to 58 kilometers at night
