After traversing the tube to achieve proper sight picture with the aiming point and the M171A1 is level, the Gunner will announce Deflection (whatever), Ready.

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Communications sequence in the firing procedure requires you to report the horizontal setting before confirming you’re ready. After you’ve traversed to the proper horizontal aim and the M171A1 is level, you must announce the deflection value you’ve set, then say you’re ready. This gives the entire team the exact angle of aim and confirms the system is prepared to fire. Saying the deflection first, with the numeric value included, followed by Ready ensures the crew can verify the correct setting and proceed without delay.

Saying just the deflection without the value leaves ambiguity about the actual setting. Declaring Ready first implies you’re prepared before confirming what deflection you’ve set, which can lead to miscommunication. And stating Sight Picture Achieved instead of the actual deflection would skip the required confirmation of the horizontal offset before readiness.