What is a critical factor when providing "support by fire"?

When it comes to the concept of "support by fire," range and accuracy are paramount. This term refers to a tactical maneuver where one unit delivers fire on the enemy to support the movement of another unit. For this operation to be effective, the supporting unit must be precise in its engagement, which means controlling the range at which it operates and ensuring its fire is accurate.

Having the correct range allows the supporting forces to deliver effective fire onto enemy positions without compromising their own forces or the friendly units they are supporting. Accuracy directly influences the success of the operation because precise targeting minimizes collateral damage and ensures that enemy forces are effectively neutralized. These two factors work together to enhance the overall effectiveness of the support, enabling the maneuvering unit to carry out its objectives with reduced risk.

In this context, troop morale, time management, and supply levels, while important in a broader operational sense, are not the critical factors when directly executing support by fire. Instead, it is the capability to fire accurately at the right range that allows for successful execution of this essential combat tactic.