DA Form 8265-12B LFAST: US Army Guide & PDF Download – US Army tank crews rely on precision and readiness before every live-fire gunnery qualification. The DA Form 8265-12B, officially titled Live Fire Accuracy Screening Test (LFAST), serves as the critical record-keeping tool that ensures M1A2 Abrams (and compatible heavy armor platforms) achieve accurate ballistic solutions using the fleet zero and Computer Correction Factors (CCF) method.
Published in July 2025 by the proponent agency TRADOC, this form standardizes documentation for the LFAST and directly supports TC 3-20.31-120 Gunnery: Heavy Tank. Armor units across the United States Army use it to confirm weapon system accuracy, identify mechanical issues early, and maintain combat lethality.
Download the official DA Form 8265-12B PDF here (direct from Army Publishing Directorate):
https://armypubs.army.mil/pub/eforms/DR_a/ARN44482-DA_FORM_8265-12B-100-EFILE-1.pdf
What Is the Live Fire Accuracy Screening Test (LFAST)?
The LFAST is a mandatory pre-live-fire screening conducted at the start of every live-fire training cycle (typically once per year per tank). It verifies that the tank’s fire control system, after boresighting and entering CCFs, delivers accurate rounds without traditional individual zeroing.
Key purpose:
- Confirm the ballistic solution produced by the Computer Correction Factors (CCF).
- Detect mechanical, hydraulic, or fire-control issues that zeroing alone cannot fix.
- Ensure safety and first-round-hit probability before full gunnery tables.
Crews fire two rounds each of primary ammunition types (e.g., sabot and HEAT/MPAT) at a specially designed ST-5 screening target panel. The tank “passes” when at least one of the first two rounds per ammunition type lands inside the designated accuracy circle/octagon.
Recent Updates in TC 3-20.31-120 (2025)
The latest doctrine in TC 3-20.31-120 Gunnery: Heavy Tank introduced important changes for greater tactical relevance:
- Boresighting distance increased to 1,600 meters (±10 meters).
- LFAST panel range also moved to 1,600 meters (previously 1,500 meters).
- Updated ST-5 panel dimensions and construction instructions.
These updates align with the Army Calibration Policy and recommendations from the Armor and Engineer Board, making the test more realistic for modern combat engagements.
Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out DA Form 8265-12B?
The form (Page 1 of 2) captures Action Alpha (pre-firing checks) through detailed boresight and environmental data. Complete it legibly before, during, and after the LFAST. Here is exactly what to enter:
Administrative Section
- Unit – Full unit designation (e.g., “A Co, 1-68 AR, 3/4 ID”).
- Bumper Number – Vehicle bumper number.
- Vehicle Name – e.g., “M1A2 SEP V3 Abrams”.
- Date – Date of test (YYYYMMDD format recommended).
- Panel Type – ST-5 or current approved screening panel.
- Range – Distance to target (now 1,600 m per updated TC).
- Accuracy Standard – Required hit criteria (per TC 3-20.31-120).
- Tank Commander Confirmation – Rank, last name, first name of TC (signature block).
- Remarks – Any notes, malfunctions, or retests.
Boresight & Environmental Data (Lines 1–14)
- Line 1: GPS Boresight (AZ / EL)
- Line 2: TIS / Thermal Boresight (AZ / EL)
- Line 3: CITV Boresight (AZ / EL)
- Line 4: MRS Boresight (AZ / EL)
- Line 5: MRS Update (AZ / EL)
- Line 6: Fire Control System Software Version
- Line 7: Crosswind Reading (–45.00 to +45.00)
- Line 8: Cant Reading (–15.00 to +15.00)
- Line 9: Ambient Air Temperature (–40 to 149 °F or °C per form)
- Line 10: Barometric Pressure (19.68 to 33.46 – unadjusted)
- Line 11: Ammunition Temperature
- Line 12: Ammunition Subdesignation (Model)
- Line 13: Computer Correction Factor (AZ / EL)
- Line 14: Hydraulic Pressure (1,500–1,750 psi)
Action Alpha checks (must be confirmed):
- Preparation to fire checks, PMCS, and boresighting complete.
- Current air and barometric pressure entered.
- Request change to firing frequency and movement to firing position.
- Crew reports REDCON-1 to conduct screening.
Action Bravo Confirmation completes the form after firing.
Master gunners and tank commanders should retain the completed form in unit gunnery records for audit and after-action review.
Who Uses DA Form 8265-12B?
- Armor and Cavalry units (ABCTs)
- M1A2 Abrams tank crews
- Master Gunners and Gunnery Instructors
- Units preparing for gunnery tables, NTC/JRTC rotations, or deployment
It applies primarily to heavy tank gunnery under TC 3-20.31-120.
Why LFAST Matters for US Army Readiness?
Skipping or improperly documenting the LFAST can lead to inaccurate fire control data, wasted ammunition, and degraded mission effectiveness. The test proves the tank shoots where the optics and computer say it will—critical for first-round hits in combat. Units that treat LFAST as a checkbox miss opportunities to catch issues early.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Where can I download the latest DA Form 8265-12B?
A: Directly from the official source: Army Publishing Directorate link above. Always use the most current version (JUL 2025).
Q: Is LFAST required for every live-fire event?
A: Yes—once per year per tank (or as directed) before live gunnery training.
Q: What happens if the tank fails LFAST?
A: The proofing team inspects the vehicle for mechanical issues. Retest after corrections.
Q: Does this replace the old DA Form 8265 series?
A: No—DA Form 8265-12B is the dedicated LFAST record. The general DA Form 8265 remains the Common Crew Score Sheet for gunnery tables.
Final Tips for Armor Leaders
- Conduct LFAST under master gunner supervision.
- Use the updated 1,600-meter range and current ST-5 panel specifications from TC 3-20.31-120.
- Double-check all environmental data inputs—small errors compound at long range.
- File completed forms with your unit’s gunnery SOP and training records.
Mastering the DA Form 8265-12B Live Fire Accuracy Screening Test keeps your tanks lethal and your crews battle-ready. Download the form today and incorporate it into your next gunnery cycle.