U.S. Army showcases M109A7 Paladin artillery system precision in NATO training

Soldiers from Alpha and Charlie Batteries, 1st Battalion, 41st Field Artillery Regiment, part of Task Force Iron, completed an extensive series of table certifications. Their training culminated in a live-fire exercise on 5–6 March, marking their first operational test since deploying overseas.

Crew certification ensures that artillery units meet the high standards set by U.S. Army doctrine. The process includes written examinations, vehicle manoeuvres, and hands-on equipment operations, requiring accuracy, memorisation, and technical skill.

“This process definitely prepares us for real-life situations,” said U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Joe Bergner, a platoon sergeant with Alpha Battery. “This is our bread and butter—this is what we do when we come to the field.”

During the exercise, artillery crews synchronised fire missions and executed complex fire support operations with precision. The M109A7 Paladin teams worked closely with forward observers to ensure accurate target acquisition, coordinated fire missions, and effective battlefield communication.

As part of NATO’s multinational integration efforts, Alpha Battery conducted joint training with the Latvian Armed Forces. This collaboration included the use of digital fire control systems such as the International Field Artillery Tactical Data System (IFATDS) and Latvia’s adaptation of the U.S. Army’s Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System (AFATDS). These systems enhance interoperability, enabling seamless coordination between allied forces.

Similarly, Charlie Battery engaged in joint exercises with the German Armed Forces in Lithuania. The German soldiers provided targeting data through the Artillery Systems Cooperative Activities (ASCA), a platform that enables real-time digital communication between different nations’ artillery commands.

“We use ASCA to communicate with our foreign partners because they don’t have the same database and technology that we do,” said U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Syrus Williams, a fire control specialist with Charlie Battery. “ASCA simplifies our way of communication.”

For Latvia, this training marks a significant step towards modernising military operations. The IFATDS system enhances battlefield digital integration, linking NATO forces into a unified fire support network for faster target acquisition and improved decision-making.

U.S. soldiers from Task Force Iron continue to strengthen their military cooperation with Latvian counterparts. These joint exercises improve defensive capabilities and reinforce NATO’s security posture in the Baltic region.

“This exercise allows us to increase our ability to work with our partnered allies,” said U.S. Army Capt. Jake Brown, Charlie Battery commander. “It builds trust and confidence so that we know we can rely on each other on the battlefield.”

The presence of U.S. troops in the region remains a key component of NATO’s deterrence strategy. By integrating advanced artillery fire systems, strategic partnerships, and multinational training exercises, Task Force Iron reaffirms its commitment to NATO’s enhanced Forward Presence and regional stability.