WEAPON SYSTEMS POSTURES PURPOSE
Prevent accidental weapons firings
Provide commanders the means to direct weapon systems readiness within the force
Empowers commanders to promulgate the posture appropriate for each weapon system for the prevailing tactical situation TACNOTE XZ0050-2-94
Notes:
- Weapons postures were initially published as “Fire Breaks” guidance, by which they are still known on the West Coast. The Saratoga incident was the impetus for this type of guidance.
- Even since weapons postures have been in effect, we have had over 15 major weapons-related accidents/incidents in the fleet.
- The AIR TYCOMs have published their firebreaks guidance as a series of letters to each of the Air Wings delineating much of the same restrictions. There is currently a review being conducted by COMSECONDFLT and AIRLANT reviewing the necessity of some of the restrictions being imposed on aircraft, such as capture carry prohibitions.