Which of the following methods is used to engage targets without an FDC?

The method used to engage targets without a Fire Direction Center (FDC) is direct alignment. This technique involves aligning the weapon system directly with the target, typically through line of sight. In essence, the gunner or crew uses visual confirmation to aim directly at the target, allowing for immediate engagement without reliance on calculated fire data or adjustments typically provided by an FDC.

In contrast, indirect fire relies heavily on data and calculations to determine firing solutions, making it dependent on a system of direction and coordination, such as that provided by an FDC. Pointing typically refers to indicating the direction of fire without necessarily aligning it with a specific target, and computed fire also involves calculations and data from a fire direction system. These processes are more complex and require an FDC to compute the necessary adjustments for distance, weather, and other factors when engaging targets. Hence, for situations requiring immediate engagement without coordination through an FDC, direct alignment is the appropriate method.