What is a tactical mission in which a maneuver force moves to a position where it can engage the enemy by direct fire in support of another maneuvering force?

• A. Support by Fire
• B. Pursuit
• C. Attack by Fire
• D. Direct Fire

Answer: (A)

This item tests the tactic of moving a maneuver element into a position from which it can deliver direct fires to support another force as it maneuvers. The idea is to provide suppressive or coordinating fire that helps the supported unit advance, pin the enemy, and reduce threats along the path without its own unit crossing into the enemy’s position. It’s about enabling movement of one force by using fire from another, rather than trying to destroy a target outright or simply pursuing them.

Pursuit involves chasing a retreating enemy and isn’t about supporting another maneuvering force. Attack by fire is firing to defeat or destroy an enemy position with the intent of reducing its combat potential, not specifically to enable a different unit’s maneuver. Direct fire is the method of engaging targets with weapons that have a clear line of sight, but the description here emphasizes using that fire to support another force’s movement, not just firing in any context.