What type of machine gun fire occurs at an angle to the target?

Oblique fire refers to the type of machine gun fire that is directed at an angle to the target. This technique involves firing at a target that is not directly in front of the gunner but positioned at a diagonal path. The purpose of oblique fire is to maximize the coverage of the target area and increase the effectiveness of the fire by presenting a cross-sectional area rather than a point target.

Oblique fire benefits from the ability to engage multiple targets or to suppress an area by using the angle to create a wider field of fire. This method is particularly useful in situations where the line of sight is obstructed or when the enemy is spread out across a front. When executing oblique fire, the gunner must carefully consider the angle and lead required to ensure that rounds effectively engage the target while maintaining safety and accuracy.

Understanding the characteristics and applications of oblique fire allows soldiers to leverage machine gun capabilities effectively during combat operations, enhancing their tactical advantage.