For linear targets with depth, what fire method is used?

The use of traversing and searching fire for linear targets with depth is essential because it allows the machine gunner to effectively engage a line of enemy positions that may be extended across a target area. This firing method involves moving the machine gun laterally (traversing) while also adjusting elevation (searching) to cover the entire depth of the target.

By utilizing this technique, the gunner can maintain a continuous rate of fire along the target line, ensuring that the weapon delivers effective coverage across the breadth and depth of the enemy positions. The method is particularly valuable in scenarios where enemies are positioned in a way that makes it challenging to hit them with a single point of aim, thereby maximizing the potential to inflict damage while reducing the chances of enemy movement or return fire.

This approach is also beneficial in ensuring that suppressive fire is sustained over extended periods, necessary for units advancing towards or maneuvering around entrenched enemy forces. Thus, traversing and searching fire is the most suitable and effective method for dealing with linear targets that have depth.