Which terrain feature is considered key for machine gun placement?

High ground is a critical terrain feature for machine gun placement because it offers significant advantages in both visibility and fields of fire. Positioning a machine gun on elevated terrain allows gunners to see a broader area, which improves situational awareness and facilitates target acquisition. When situated on high ground, the machine gun can effectively engage enemy forces while minimizing the risk of being targeted itself. The increased vantage point also allows for more effective coverage of key avenues of approach and potential enemy movement, making it easier to control and dominate the battlefield.

Additionally, high ground positions typically provide a better angle for firing, allowing projectiles to travel further without being obstructed by natural cover. This aspect is crucial for machine guns, which rely on sustained fire to suppress and destroy enemy targets. Ultimately, machine gun placement on high ground makes it a highly strategic position that maximizes the weapon's effectiveness.