What does 'time on target' refer to in artillery fire?

'Time on target' refers to the precise moment when the rounds are expected to impact the intended target. This concept is crucial in artillery fire as it ensures that all elements of the fire mission align perfectly so that the artillery shells or munitions land at the scheduled time. Achieving the correct time on target can significantly enhance the effectiveness of the fire mission, especially when coordinating with ground troops or other support elements.

For example, in a scenario where there is a need to suppress enemy positions right before an assault, having the artillery rounds hit at the exact moment the troops reach the objective is essential for maximizing the element of surprise and minimizing risks to friendly forces.

The other options, while related to the firing process, do not accurately define 'time on target.' The total time from firing to impact corresponds to the overall flight time of the rounds, while the duration of the fire mission pertains to the entire operation duration, and the time taken to adjust fire relates to the adjustments made based on initial fire observations. These aspects are important in the overall operation but do not capture the specificity and critical importance of accurately determining the moment of impact.