Technology seems to be taking over everything these days, even in the military. But being able to accurately fire a weapon is still essential, even as the ranges where military members train become more high-tech.
The Hathcock Range Complex on MCAS Miramar is called a "Location of Miss and Hit" - or "LOMAH" Range.
Some say the technology makes it a lot like playing a video game. But, the stakes are high there: Marines use real bullets, and it's where they qualify on their weapons to be combat ready.
It looks like any other firing range from a distance; you hear the constant sound of rounds being fired, and see a long line of Marines re-loading and firing their weapons.
But this range is different -- it's electronic.
A muzzle blast detector turns on sensors downrange when a weapon is fired, and it's electronically scored to give Marines instant feedback as they take their shots.
Without even moving their rifles, Marines check their shots on a display, and then correct for their next shots. And instead of the Marines moving to shoot at different distances, electronically controlled targets pop up at the distance where they're supposed to fire.
The result is a faster, more accurate and efficient trip to the shooting range for annual qualification.