H-295 target designator

The H-295 Forward Observer Module is a target designator used by the United Nations Space Command.

Design details
As with all target designators, the H-295 FOM combines a UNSC battle network relay, a range finder, a global positioning system, and a fire-control computer into a pistol-like tool. The device uses a secure link to perform target acquisitions on selected enemy positions, and can be used to call in close-fire support. The system has a fairly simple operating mechanism; all the user needs to do is point it at a given target, then hold down the trigger in the grip while the laser designates its target - at which point the module signals the allocation of available air, artillery, or ortillery support and makes the necessary call for fire on the designated location.

The support offered by the H-295 can come in a variety of options, largely dependent on the resources available for a given mission and the user's area of operation, and proximity from the target. These can range from Magnetic Accelerator Cannons such as the main weapon found on the M510 Mammoth, through to Longsword carpet bombing runs or even full-scale capital ship-grade MACs.

In comparison to other target locator models, the H-295 offers increased effectiveness in context in which atmospheric or electromagnetic disturbances make target acquisition difficult.

Operational history
The H-295 FOM entered service in 2554, presumably replacing the H-165 model used during the Human-Covenant War. It was used by forces during the initial stages of the Battle of Requiem in 2557 to destroy the Forerunner particle cannon network and gravity well generators that kept Infinity pinned down inside the shield world. During the Battle of Oban in the following year, a H-295 module was used by Spartan Joel Thomas to call in a GA-TL1 Longsword air strike on s threatening UNSC ground forces.

List of appearances

 * Halo 4
 * Halo: Escalation