What does "elevation" refer to in the context of machine gun employment?

In the context of machine gun employment, "elevation" specifically refers to the vertical movement of the gun. This adjustment is crucial for effectively engaging targets at varying heights or distances. When operating a machine gun, adjusting the elevation allows a gunner to modify the angle at which the weapon is aimed, ensuring that the projectile follows a proper trajectory to hit the intended target.

Understanding elevation is essential for accurate firing because it not only affects the point of impact but also compensates for factors such as bullet drop over distance and the height of the target relative to the gunner's position. Mastery of elevation adjustments contributes to the overall effectiveness and efficiency of machine gun operations during tactical engagements.